From Angel To Exit

Bruce Eckfeldt
  • 5.0 (1)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP

From Angel To Exit is a business podcast exploring the entrepreneurial journey of scaling a business from raising your first round of funding to exiting. We cover the trials and tribulations that founders face, the pitfalls and pratfalls you want to avoid, as well as the joy and impact that success can bring. Join us on our next episode, where we speak about the challenges that real leaders face growing and scaling their organizations and how they’ve overcome them to achieve success and make their mark.

  1. 6D AGO

    21: Facing a Runway Crisis? How Employee Deferrals Secured Roy Vella a Successful Acquisition

    What do you do when the dot-com bust kills your $15M funding round just two weeks before closing? In this episode, Bruce Eckfeldt speaks with Roy Vella, co-founder of NetAbacus (later Rivio), who faced a sudden capital crisis in 2000. Instead of folding, he created an employee salary deferral program that extended runway and impressed potential buyers. Roy shares how transparency, co-opetition, and integratable business models shaped the acquisition and his later career at PayPal and beyond. Founders will learn hard-earned lessons about resilience, deal-making, and preparing companies to thrive even when markets collapse. Key Takeaways Crises demand creativity: salary deferral saved months of runway and impressed acquirers. Transparency builds trust and accelerates deal-making during tough markets. Employee commitment and culture directly affect perceived acquisition value. Founders must embrace external visibility—storytelling is as critical as strategy. Integration-friendly businesses (API mindset) are far more attractive to buyers. Co-opetition often unlocks unexpected deal opportunities. Post-exit transitions can be jarring; expect emotional and cultural shifts. Strategic investor targeting includes competitors’ backers—who often want diversification. Links & Resources Roy Vella LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/royvella Subscribe to the Podcast: Find From Angel to Exit on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you listen. Be sure to hit “Subscribe” so you never miss an episode. Newsletter & Exclusive Content: Sign up for the free newsletter at eckfeldt.com/podcast for episode transcripts, bonus insights, frameworks, and community updates. Connect with Bruce & the Community: LinkedIn: Bruce Eckfeldt Instagram: @bruce_eckfeldt Email: podcast@eckfeldt.com bruce@eckfeldt.com

    42 min

  2. AUG 25

    20: Struggling to Scale Your Expertise? How Thomas Michael Turned SAP Training into a 7-Figure SaaS Exit

    What happens after you sell your company for millions and walk away with no earnout? In this episode, Bruce Eckfeldt sits down with Thomas Michael, a former SAP consultant turned founder who scaled an online training company and exited with a clean deal. Thomas shares how he transformed his business into a subscription model, prepared for acquisition with precision, and what surprised him most after the sale. A must-listen for founders planning their own exits. Key Takeaways: Switching to SaaS doubled the exit multiple through recurring revenue. Preparing for an exit can take 1–2 years—start early and organize everything. Making yourself unimportant in the business is key to a clean transition. Culture by design significantly improves team morale and buyer appeal. A good advisory board can add millions in value pre-exit. Many buyers will lowball; knowing industry multiples is essential. Post-exit identity loss is real—plan ahead for your next chapter. Don't underestimate the power of financial and operational clarity in due diligence. Links & Resources Thomas Michael Website: thomasmichaellive.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasmichael1/ Subscribe to the Podcast: Find From Angel to Exit on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you listen. Be sure to hit “Subscribe” so you never miss an episode. Newsletter & Exclusive Content: Sign up for the free newsletter at eckfeldt.com/podcast for episode transcripts, bonus insights, frameworks, and community updates. Connect with Bruce & the Community: LinkedIn: Bruce Eckfeldt Instagram: @bruce_eckfeldt Email: podcast@eckfeldt.com bruce@eckfeldt.com

    38 min

  3. AUG 18

    19: Managing Mid-Performer Assets: A Tactic for Founders Facing M&A Stagnation

    Frank Williamson, CEO of Oaklyn Consulting, joins Bruce Eckfeldt to explore what happens when a business stagnates—performing decently, but not meeting growth or exit expectations. He shares real-world insights on managing misaligned cap tables, preparing for strategic exits, and dealing with investor pressure. Frank offers clear tactics to transform underperforming assets into saleable opportunities, making this episode a must-listen for founder-CEOs navigating the murky middle of the M&A landscape. Key Takeaways: If your business can't run without you for two weeks, it's likely not a saleable asset. Separate the "owner" and "operator" roles early to prepare for a successful exit. Mid-performing companies need strategic storytelling and market testing to attract buyers. Investor pressure often stems from their own fund timelines—not just company performance. Framing early buyer outreach as partnerships creates rapport without prematurely signaling a sale. Distinguish between VC (growth-focused) and PE (buyout-focused) when planning capital strategy. A full sales funnel—multiple potential acquirers—is key to creating leverage in dealmaking. Founders must proactively lead the narrative around exit timing, valuation, and deal structure. Links & Resources Frank Williamson LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fwilliamson/ Website: https://oaklynconsulting.com/ Subscribe to the Podcast: Find From Angel to Exit on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you listen. Be sure to hit “Subscribe” so you never miss an episode. Newsletter & Exclusive Content: Sign up for the free newsletter at eckfeldt.com/podcast for episode transcripts, bonus insights, frameworks, and community updates. Connect with Bruce & the Community: LinkedIn: Bruce Eckfeldt Instagram: @bruce_eckfeldt Email: podcast@eckfeldt.com bruce@eckfeldt.com

    39 min

  4. AUG 11

    18: From Near Bankruptcy to 10X Exit: How Sam Arman Mastered the Art of Selling Businesses

    In this episode of From Angel to Exit, serial entrepreneur Sam Arman shares how he built and sold multiple companies—sometimes under pressure, sometimes for massive wins. From his first computer assembly business disrupted by Dell to a 10X private equity-backed exit during COVID, Sam reveals the emotional and strategic pitfalls founders face in M&A. He dives into how to choose the right buyer, protect your team’s morale, and leverage “second bites of the apple” to multiply your returns. His hard-earned lessons give founder-CEOs a blueprint for maximizing value while avoiding costly mistakes in high-stakes exits. Key Takeaways: Plan your exit strategy from the moment you start your business. Treat your company as an asset, not an emotional extension. Understand deal structures and align them with your “why.” Limit internal disclosure to protect morale and operations. Vet buyers for both financial capacity and strategic fit. Use private equity partnerships to fund post-sale growth. Walk away from deals with unfavorable or uncontrollable terms. Build a specialized M&A advisory team, not just general counsel.   Links & Resources Sam Arman LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samarman/ Subscribe to the Podcast: Find From Angel to Exit on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you listen. Be sure to hit “Subscribe” so you never miss an episode. Newsletter & Exclusive Content: Sign up for the free newsletter at eckfeldt.com/podcast for episode transcripts, bonus insights, frameworks, and community updates. Connect with Bruce & the Community: LinkedIn: Bruce Eckfeldt Instagram: @bruce_eckfeldt Email: podcast@eckfeldt.com bruce@eckfeldt.com

    51 min

  5. JUL 28

    17: Building Brand Equity for Scalable Growth and Maximizing Business Exit Value

    In this episode, Lysle Wickersham shares his journey from creative director to scaling a $170M agency and navigating multiple exits. As founder and CEO, he emphasizes the power of brand equity in driving enterprise value and achieving successful exits. Lysle breaks down how early-stage businesses can align positioning, brand strategy, and operations to create sustainable growth and higher transaction multiples. His insights bridge the gap between creativity and financial value, offering practical strategies for founder-CEOs preparing to scale or exit. Key Takeaways: Build brand equity early; consistent positioning over time drives long-term enterprise and exit value. Emotional brand attributes can differentiate in crowded markets and influence transaction multiples. Prepare five years ahead for an exit to maximize valuation and minimize equity dilution. Treat employees as your first “customers” to align culture with brand promise during scaling. Balance passion for your product with the capitalistic goal of creating a sellable business. Align positioning, operations, and branding to create negotiating leverage at the exit table. Simplicity and clarity in brand positioning lead to stronger alignment and sustainable growth. Intangible brand equity can account for significant market capitalization and shareholder value. Links & Resources  Lysle Wickersham Website: brandthink.biz LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wickersham/ Subscribe to the Podcast: Find From Angel to Exit on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you listen. Be sure to hit “Subscribe” so you never miss an episode. Newsletter & Exclusive Content: Sign up for the free newsletter at eckfeldt.com/podcast for episode transcripts, bonus insights, frameworks, and community updates. Connect with Bruce & the Community: LinkedIn: Bruce Eckfeldt Instagram: @bruce_eckfeldt Email: podcast@eckfeldt.com bruce@eckfeldt.com

    37 min

  6. JUL 28

    16: Inside 47 Acquisitions: What Experienced Buyers Look for in a Successful Acquisition

    David Turner, CEO of Velocity Now and former CRO at IHS, joins the show to unpack what truly drives successful business exits. With firsthand experience leading 47 acquisitions and scaling IHS from $320M to $1.8B, David offers rare insight into the buyer’s mindset. Founders will gain actionable strategies to prepare for sale, avoid common missteps, and understand how to position their company for maximum value. Key Takeaways Acquirers often buy because they’re struggling with organic growth. Private equity buyers face increasing pressure from extended fund cycles. Founders must dilute their own delusion about earn-outs and post-sale roles. Most successful acquisitions start with strong personal rapport at the leadership level. Presenting all risks upfront builds credibility and avoids downstream surprises. Tell your company story consistently—long before you plan to sell. Time kills deals; speed and decisiveness are critical on both sides. Due diligence always finds skeletons; buyers care more about how you handle them. Links & Resources David Turner Website: http://velocitynowllc.com/ Email: david@velocitynowllc.com Subscribe to the Podcast: Find From Angel to Exit on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you listen. Be sure to hit “Subscribe” so you never miss an episode. Newsletter & Exclusive Content: Sign up for the free newsletter at eckfeldt.com/podcast for episode transcripts, bonus insights, frameworks, and community updates. Connect with Bruce & the Community: LinkedIn: Bruce Eckfeldt Instagram: @bruce_eckfeldt Email: podcast@eckfeldt.com bruce@eckfeldt.com

    39 min

  7. JUL 21

    15: How Leslie Adams Scaled and Sold a Multi-Generational Scrap Metal Business

    In this episode, Leslie Kraatz Adams shares the remarkable journey of scaling and exiting Federal Metals, a third-generation scrap metal business. Starting with deep family roots and evolving industry dynamics, Leslie transformed the company from a local scrapyard into a major regional player in Western Canada. She candidly discusses leadership challenges, navigating family dynamics, preparing for sale, and her pivot into health and wellness entrepreneurship with her new venture, At Work of Heart.   Key Takeaways Family dynamics require careful navigation during succession and sale Building to sell starts with solid operational foundations and leadership structure Industry shifts demand business model agility and innovation Emotional resilience is critical for founder wellbeing and decision-making Strong relationships and reputation can drive organic exit opportunities Certifications and social responsibility increase buyer appea Timing the exit strategically is as important as structuring the deal Post-exit identity clarity eases the transition into new ventures Links & Resources Leslie Kraatz Adams CWebsite: https://aworkofheart.ca LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesliekraatz/ Subscribe to the Podcast: Find From Angel to Exit on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you listen. Be sure to hit “Subscribe” so you never miss an episode. Newsletter & Exclusive Content: Sign up for the free newsletter at eckfeldt.com/podcast for episode transcripts, bonus insights, frameworks, and community updates. Connect with Bruce & the Community: LinkedIn: Bruce Eckfeldt Instagram: @bruce_eckfeldt Email: podcast@eckfeldt.com bruce@eckfeldt.com

    45 min

  8. JUL 14

    14: Inside a Rapid M&A Deal: How Calvin Johnson Prepared Lykki for a Fortune 500 Exit

    From washing cars as a teen to selling a business with over $290M in sales, Calvin Johnson’s entrepreneurial journey is nothing short of remarkable. In this episode, Calvin shares how he built and exited Lykki, an office supply and coffee delivery company, and the key lessons he learned around culture, technology, and timing. Founders looking to scale smart and exit well will gain real-world insights into M&A strategy, deal preparation, and post-exit purpose. Key Takeaways Start building your M&A data vault 1–2 years in advance for deal-readiness Culture-first hiring and top-tier talent drive long-term operational success Combining related services (coffee + supplies) can create a defensible market edge Earnouts often underdeliver—opt for cash deals when possible A top-notch M&A lawyer is more valuable than a flashy M&A firm Understanding your acquirer’s needs can dramatically increase valuation Exiting a business doesn’t mean retiring—plan a purpose-driven next chapter Post-exit, your identity may shift—prepare emotionally, not just financially Links & Resources Calvin Johnson ClubNeed (Social Giving Platform): clubneed.org ClubNeed Travel (Impact Travel Trips): clubneedtravel.com Subscribe to the Podcast: Find From Angel to Exit on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you listen. Be sure to hit “Subscribe” so you never miss an episode. Newsletter & Exclusive Content: Sign up for the free newsletter at eckfeldt.com/podcast for episode transcripts, bonus insights, frameworks, and community updates. Connect with Bruce & the Community: LinkedIn: Bruce Eckfeldt Instagram: @bruce_eckfeldt Email: podcast@eckfeldt.com bruce@eckfeldt.com

    40 min
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From Angel To Exit is a business podcast exploring the entrepreneurial journey of scaling a business from raising your first round of funding to exiting. We cover the trials and tribulations that founders face, the pitfalls and pratfalls you want to avoid, as well as the joy and impact that success can bring. Join us on our next episode, where we speak about the challenges that real leaders face growing and scaling their organizations and how they’ve overcome them to achieve success and make their mark.

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  • Creator
    Bruce Eckfeldt
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    22
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    From Angel To Exit