Episode 137 – Unlocking Business Opportunities: The Power of Buyer Searches

/in /by

Welcome back to the Apex Business Advisors podcast! This week, Andy is joined by the industry titan, Debbie Small, who brings an impressive array of credentials, including multiple national awards from the IBBA and Apex. Debbie shares her expertise on the intricate process of buyer searches, a strategy she believes is the best way for buyers to find the right business in a highly competitive market.

In this episode, Debbie explains how buyer searches work, the importance of establishing a strong relationship between the buyer and seller, and the advantages of having a broker dedicated to the buyer’s interests. She delves into the specifics of what makes a buyer search effective, including the criteria for selecting businesses, the role of fiduciary responsibility, and the financial dynamics involved.

Listeners will gain insights into the competitive nature of business acquisitions, the importance of buyer engagement, and how to navigate the lending and due diligence processes. Whether you’re a seasoned buyer or just starting your search, this episode provides valuable advice on how to expedite the process and secure the best deals.

Tune in to learn more about how a buyer search can help you find the perfect business, avoid competition, and enter acquisitions with equity. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from one of the best in the business!

Episode 136 – Selling a Business: Bad Idea #5,038

/in /by

Welcome back to the Apex Business Advisors podcast! In this episode, Doug shares insights on why buying unnecessary equipment or inventory to reduce taxes can backfire, especially if you plan to sell your business soon.

Whether your business is valued at $50,000 or $50 million, the team at Apex Business Advisors is here to guide you every step of the way.

Episode 135 – Navigating Business Sales: Asset vs. Stock Sales Explained

/in /by

In this episode, we dive into recent business closings, including a landscape equipment dealer and a local salon, discussing the complexities faced during these transactions.

Our main focus is on the key differences between asset sales and stock sales. We cover tax implications, risks, and benefits for both buyers and sellers, along with the importance of thorough due diligence and consulting tax professionals.

Whether you’re buying or selling, this episode offers crucial insights into structuring deals, negotiating terms, and understanding the financial details of business sales.

Episode 134 – Planning Your Financial Future: Insights from Mitzi Swaffer

/in /by

Welcome to the latest episode of the Apex Business Advisors podcast! We pick up our conversation with Mitzi Swaffer from MS Financial. Mitzi brings her expertise to discuss the importance of planning your financial future and preparing for a successful business exit.

In this episode, Mitzi shares unique insights on the differences between financial strategies for female and male business owners. She highlights the long-term planning approach often favored by women and the challenges men face with short-term market chasing. The conversation also delves into the risks of not having a proper exit plan, the impact on employees, and the critical role of estate planning for business owners.

Listeners will enjoy practical advice on transitioning into retirement, including real-life examples of phased retirement strategies and the psychological phases retirees often experience. Mitzi and Andy discuss tools like risk assessments and owner readiness surveys to help business owners prepare for their next chapter.

Tune in for an engaging and informative discussion that will help you navigate the complexities of financial planning and ensure a smooth transition when the time comes to exit your business.

For more insights and to connect with Mitzi Swaffer, visit MS Financial Resources or call 913-529-2304.

Episode 133 – Navigating Business Sales and Retirement Planning with Mitzi Swaffer

/in /by

In this episode of the Apex Business Advisors Podcast, Andy and Doug are joined by the accomplished financial expert Mitzi Swaffer from MS Financial Resources. With over 15 years of experience as a certified financial planner, Mitzi shares her insights on retirement planning, especially tailored for business owners.

Mitzi delves into her background, including the acquisition of a financial practice, and discusses the importance of having a comprehensive financial plan. She explains the nuances of retirement planning, comparing the needs of W-2 employees with those of business owners, and highlights the critical role of understanding cash flow and secure income sources.

Andy and Doug explore key topics with Mitzi, such as the complexities of selling a business, the importance of obtaining realistic valuations, and the tax implications of different business structures. Mitzi also stresses the need for early planning and collaboration with tax professionals to optimize financial outcomes.

Tune in to gain valuable advice on how to navigate the financial landscape of business sales and retirement, ensuring you are well-prepared for the future. Don’t forget to visit the Apex website for a wealth of resources on buying or selling a business.

For more insights and to connect with Mitzi Swaffer, visit MS Financial Resources or call 913-529-2304.

Episode 132 – Selling a Business: Lost Days

/in /by

In this episode, we discuss the intricacies of business transactions, focusing on efficiency and the impact of lost days.

We examine a lengthy liquor store deal in depth, highlighting challenges such as managing multiple buyers, non-responsive attorneys, IRS liens, landlord approvals, and the impact of losing days. Andy emphasizes the importance of tracking activities, having a project manager, and maintaining timely due diligence.

Whether you’re a seasoned business advisor or just starting out, this episode provides practical insights that can be applied to navigating complex deals and maintaining efficiency. Don’t miss this engaging and informative discussion!

Episode 131 – When Buyers and Bankers lose their voice

/in /by

In this episode, Andy and Doug dive into the complexities of business closings, sharing recent challenges and successes. Andy recounts his recent frustrations of delayed closings, while they both highlight the impact of poor communication from bankers and buyers.

They discuss successful deals, including a heating and air business, a port-a-potty company, and a daycare center, all tied by the importance of open communication. They also touch on how vacation seasons affect timelines and the dangers of ghosting during acquisitions.

Tune in for valuable insights on navigating the closing process, managing buyer inquiries, and ensuring smoother business deals.

Episode 130 – Best of Episode: Profile Perfection and Storytelling Success using LinkedIn with Jason Terry

/in /by

In this episode, we dive into the essentials of optimizing your LinkedIn profile and leveraging the platform for business growth. Our expert guest, Jason Terry, shares invaluable tips on creating the perfect profile picture, crafting an engaging bio, and utilizing LinkedIn’s features to their fullest potential.

Learn why your profile photo should be current and professional, and discover the four key elements that can make or break your LinkedIn presence: the cover image, professional headline, about section, and consistent activity. Our guest also discusses the importance of storytelling in business, emphasizing how sharing personal and professional stories can enhance relationships and drive engagement.

We explore real-world success stories of businesses that have transformed their online presence and increased client interaction through effective LinkedIn strategies. Additionally, the episode covers LinkedIn’s role in talent acquisition and retention, proving that a well-maintained profile can attract top talent.

If you’re looking to elevate your LinkedIn game, this episode offers a wealth of practical advice and actionable steps to help you stand out and connect meaningfully in the professional world. Tune in to learn how to make LinkedIn work for you and your business.

Episode 129 – Best of Episode: Mastering Business Connections using LinkedIn with Jason Terry

/in /by

In this insightful episode, we invite LinkedIn expert Jason Terry to discuss the transformative power of LinkedIn for businesses. Jason shares his unique journey from IT to sales and how LinkedIn became essential to his success. The episode dives deep into the importance of maintaining a strong LinkedIn presence, the benefits of regular status updates, and the impact of personal storytelling on business relationships.

Listeners will learn practical tips on how to leverage LinkedIn to stay top of mind, build meaningful connections, and drive business growth. Jason also addresses common myths about LinkedIn, the value of engaging content, and the significance of commenting over merely liking posts. Tune in to discover how LinkedIn can elevate your business to the next level.

Episode 128 – Know Your Broker: Tina Youngblood

/in /by

In this episode, we sit down with Tina Youngblood, a seasoned professional transitioning from a high-stakes corporate M&A background to a brokerage role at Apex. Tina shares her journey through corporate America and the startup world, revealing the challenges and politics that led her to seek a more fulfilling career.

Discover the pivotal moment that sparked her interest in becoming a broker, influenced by her colleague Chuck Campbell’s success and happiness in the field. Tina’s extensive experience in accounting and financial services, coupled with her passion for connecting buyers and sellers, makes her a perfect fit for Apex.

The conversation also delves into her academic achievements, including a PhD in accounting, and her unique encounters, such as meeting Alex Haley, the author of “Roots.” Tina discusses the importance of understanding financials for business owners and her plans to leverage her network and expertise in behavioral health and software development to bring value to Apex.

Join us as we explore Tina’s aspirations, her favorite hobbies like golf and cooking, and her excitement for attending conferences and expanding her professional network. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in career transitions, brokerage, and the personal stories behind professional success.