Exit Planning for Entrepreneurs (Scottsdale Founders Forum)

In this special episode of the Founder's Guide Post, we bring you a front-row seat to a powerful live event focused on one of the most pivotal moments in an entrepreneur's journey: the exit. Hosted by journalist and PBS host Catherine Anaya, and led by Armando Roman—founder of Axiom Founders Family Office—this event was designed for founders preparing to sell their business, whether that's in five years or five months.

Listeners will hear from Steve Johnson, a former SWAT officer turned entrepreneur who created a bullet-resistant window film and scaled his company from $500 to nearly $20 million in revenue. Steve shares raw insights into the challenges of growing fast, avoiding debt, and navigating a private equity exit—even with no formal business background. His story underscores the value of surrounding yourself with the right team before selling your business.

The episode also features an expert panel including a family office wealth advisor, investment banker, M&A attorney, CPA, tax strategist, and estate planning attorney—each offering crucial advice for first-time sellers. From understanding your company's value, to minimizing tax exposure and structuring a meaningful legacy, this forum outlines what it takes to plan and execute a successful business exit. If you're a founder contemplating your next chapter, this episode is a must-listen.

What You'll Learn:

1. A Successful Exit Starts Long Before You Sell. The most valuable exits don't happen by chance—they're the result of intentional, early planning. From assembling the right team (wealth advisor, investment banker, CPA, estate attorney) to cleaning up your financials and understanding your personal goals post-sale, the earlier you begin, the more options—and leverage—you'll have.

2. Your Business Is Worth More with the Right Structure and Story. Buyers pay premiums for businesses with clean books, predictable cash flow, and strong leadership teams. But how you structure the sale—asset vs. equity, S-corp vs. LLC, cash vs. earnout—can dramatically affect your tax burden and long-term outcomes. Having advisors who understand these nuances can save millions.

3. Don't Leave Your Legacy to Chance. Your business exit is more than a transaction—it's a transition for your family, your team, and your future. Whether you plan to stay involved or walk away, defining your legacy through thoughtful estate planning and charitable giving ensures your wealth and values live on long after the deal closes.

About the Scottsdale Founders Forum:

The Scottsdale Founders Forum is an exclusive, invitation-only event for founders preparing for their first business exit, designed to maximize value, safeguard your legacy, and ensure a smooth transition for your family, company, and community.