Mastering the Business Exit: Lessons in Risk, Resilience, and Maximizing Value with Lee Heisman

On this episode of Perennial Pride, Tom reconnects with longtime friend Lee Heisman, CEO of Exit Stage Left Advisors. With decades of entrepreneurial experience, Lee shares insights into helping business owners maximize the value of their business as they prepare for an exit. From his start in the printing industry to managing multiple successful ventures, Lee reflects on the importance of risk-taking, resilience, and aligning your efforts with your long-term goals. Tune in to learn about Lee's journey, the lessons he's gained along the way, and what business owners need to know when selling their companies.

Highlights 02:08 - The Value of Delayed Gratification. 03:39 - Challenging Conventional Wisdom for Success. 05:50 - Lee Heisman on Defining Personal Success. 06:34 - Transitioning from Physical Therapy to Entrepreneurship. 07:15 - Starting a Printing Business in Atlanta. 09:45 - Selling the Printing Business for New Ventures. 10:56 - The Importance of Resilience and Learning from Failures. 12:29 - Early Business Challenges: Working All Night. 14:39 - Side Hustles Need Full Dedication to Thrive. 16:19 - Balancing Different Types of Employees. 20:04 - Teaching Entrepreneurship at Kennesaw State University. 22:35 - Embracing Failure as a Learning Tool. 23:35 - Understanding Personal Risk Tolerance in Business. 26:04 - Preparing a Business for Sale. 28:55 - Importance of Business Financials and Predictability. 32:50 - Money in the Marketplace Post-COVID. 36:50 - Common Mistakes Before Selling a Business. 40:32 - Importance of Having a Generation 2 Successor. 42:39 - Horror Stories of Unprepared Sellers. 46:00 - The Joy of Helping Clients Exit Successfully.

Episode Resources

• Connect with Tom Suvansri
• https://perennialpride.com/
• https://www.facebook.com/perennialpride/
• https://twitter.com/perennialpride
• https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6N7YVoDx7BSRdiYRRb1BiA
• Connect with Lee Heisman
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/exitstageleftadvisors/  

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