Poised for Exit

Julie Keyes
  • 5.0 (19)
  • BUSINESS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to the Poised for Exit podcast! Poised for Exit is an under 30-minute strategic planning guidance podcast for busy small business owners. Each week you’ll hear certified exit planning advisor, Julie Keyes, talk with a range of entrepreneurs and professionals about preparing your business for a future transition. Guests at every stage of company ownership will share their personal stories and lessons learned about topics such as the anatomy of the exit planning process, developing a growth strategy, how to sell on your terms, exit planning for women small business owners, handling business diversity, and how to sell a family business. Whether you’re planning an exit in the near future or not, this show will provide you with the same action-oriented content that Julie utilizes while consulting with Keyestrategies clients. Building an exit strategy can be overwhelming, especially with all the decisions and details you have to consider. “Poised for Exit” will simplify the process and help you unwrap the unknowns, giving you more confidence in your planning process. Previous episodes are available for download, so if you are new to our show, you can listen to them in any order that suits you. Join us each week for timely, relevant content that will surely impact your business exit outcome! Subscribe to our newsletter below to receive your weekly episode link and stay updated on new strategic planning content. Find “Poised for Exit” on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Play, iHeart Radio, Amazon Music, and others. Thank you to our Sponsors: Sunbelt Business Advisers and JAK CPA's. A special note of thanks to Tyler Keyes who produced the music for the “Poised for Exit” show.

  1. 4D AGO

    Building Stronger Teams and Business Value Through EQ and AI

    In this episode of Poised for Exit, we sit down with Heather Polivka, Founder and CEO of Awesome People Leaders, to explore how leadership, culture, and emotional intelligence drive real business value. Heather shares how her firm helps organizations close leadership gaps, reduce disengagement, and elevate team performance. At the center of our conversation is Awesome EQ, a new AI-powered tool that delivers real-time coaching prompts inside everyday platforms like Outlook, Gmail, and Slack. The tool helps leaders build trust, communicate more effectively, and strengthen team dynamics in the moment. Our discussion touches on why emotional intelligence is such a critical predictor of success, how real-time insights prevent miscommunication and boost retention, and the ways companies have gone through acquisitions without losing key talent. Heather also outlines a three-year roadmap for developing leadership capacity, strengthening culture, and positioning a business for greater value at exit. She emphasizes that in an AI-driven world, the human element becomes even more critical. By combining neuroscience, EQ, and technology, leaders can unlock higher performance while safeguarding company culture and long-term value. Connect with Heather on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/heatherpolivka/ Follow Awesome People Leaders on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/awesome-people-leaders Visit awesomepeopleleaders.com to learn more https://www.awesomepeopleleaders.com/   Connect with Julie Keyes, Keyestrategies LLC Founder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor

    28 min

  2. SEP 25

    What to Expect at the EPI Regional Summit 2025

    The Twin Cities business community is preparing for one of the year’s most anticipated gatherings: the EPI Regional Summit. In this week’s episode of Poised for Exit, we’re joined by Todd Krough, President of the EPI Twin Cities Chapter and Wealth Advisor with UMB Bank, for an inside look at what attendees can expect on October 9 at Union Depot in St. Paul. Todd reflects on the evolution of the Owners Forum into today’s Regional Summit and why the Twin Cities Chapter continues to grow in reach and impact. This conversation highlights how the Summit has become a cornerstone event for connecting business owners and advisors, offering fresh insights, meaningful connections, and perspectives that extend well beyond the day itself. This conversation provides a behind-the-scenes look at what makes the Regional Summit such a powerful opportunity, from the energy of the Twin Cities business community to the unique lineup that blends learning, networking, and inspiration. If you’re considering attending, or simply want to understand what sets this event apart, this episode offers the perfect preview of what’s ahead! Learn more & get involved: 🔗 Register for the Regional Summit: DriveValue.com  🔗 Explore upcoming events & chapter details: EPI Twin Cities Chapter  🔗 Connect with the chapter on LinkedIn: EPI Twin Cities LinkedIn Connect with Julie Keyes, Keyestrategies LLC Founder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor

    20 min

  3. SEP 17

    How to Pass Down Real Estate Wealth Without the Tax Burden

    In this episode of Poised for Exit, we sit down with Nolan Gaffney, and Yan Arsenault, of Trust Point Inc., to explore real estate strategies that can transform how business owners and families protect their wealth. With trillions of dollars in real estate expected to pass from one generation to the next, the conversation couldn’t be more timely. Nolan and Yan walk us through approaches that allow owners to transition away from the burdens of managing property while still enjoying the benefits of real estate ownership. They share how tools like Delaware Statutory Trusts and 721 exchanges can create a smoother handoff to heirs, eliminate day-to-day management headaches, and defer significant tax obligations. Along the way, they illustrate how these strategies are helping families reduce risk, diversify their holdings, and plan with confidence for the future. Hearing how these strategies have played out for real families adds an important layer to the conversation. From clients eager to step away from the hassle of tenants and repairs to those focused on leaving a smoother path for their kids, the stories are relatable and eye-opening. Nolan and Yan strip away the complexity and show that with the right help, these options are available to more people than you might expect. If you’ve ever wondered how to move from active landlord responsibilities to passive real estate investing, or how to prepare your family to inherit wealth instead of stress, this episode is for you! Connect with Nolan here or email ngaffney@trustpointinc.com Connect with Yan here or email trust_point@trustpointinc.com Learn more about Trust Point Inc. here Learn more about Delaware Statutory Trusts (DSTs) here Connect with Julie Keyes, Keyestrategies LLC Founder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor

    23 min

  4. SEP 11

    Exit Planning in the Age of AI: Building Smarter Strategies

    In this episode of Poised for Exit, we are joined by Erik Gabrielson, co-founder of ProjectWe. Erik returns to the show to share how his firm is helping business owners and professional services leaders navigate one of the most disruptive forces of our time: artificial intelligence. The conversation begins with Erik’s own journey of adopting AI in early 2023, when he and his team recognized its potential to transform not only their business, but also the way their clients operate. Together, Erik and Julie explore the opportunities and challenges of integrating AI into exit planning and business strategy. One of the biggest takeaways is that the real risk isn’t choosing the wrong AI tools - it’s avoiding the conversation altogether. Too many companies treat AI like just another software plug-in, and that’s why implementations stall. Erik explains why success starts with people, trust, and careful planning, and how shifting your mindset to see AI as a teammate can unlock far greater potential. They also talk about how AI can take knowledge that usually lives with one owner and turn it into shared knowledge that strengthens the whole company. Relying too heavily on one person creates risk, but integrating AI can help reduce that dependency, and businesses that resist adoption may find themselves vulnerable when it comes to valuation. As the conversation unfolds, Julie and Erik share their collaboration on a new AI-powered application for exit planning, designed to help advisors scale their work, support more owners, and drive better outcomes.This episode is a must-listen for advisors and business owners who want to stay ahead of the curve and position themselves for long-term success. Curious where your business stands? Take the free Workforce & Technology Scorecard here  Connect with Erik here Find ProjectWe here Connect with Julie Keyes, Keyestrategies LLC Founder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor

    28 min

  5. SEP 3

    Next Chapter Partners: Preparing Owners for Life After Exit

    In this episode of Poised for Exit, we sit down with Marianne Oehser, and Susan Latremoille, of Next Chapter Lifestyle Advisors, for a conversation about the often-overlooked emotional side of exiting a business. With combined backgrounds in financial advising, corporate leadership, and retirement coaching, Marianne and Susan bring a unique perspective to what it really takes to prepare for life beyond the business. Their work focuses on guiding entrepreneurs through the transition, helping address the personal challenges that numbers alone can’t solve. The discussion explores why 75% of owners regret their exit within the first year and introduces the acronym SIPS - Social connection, Identity, Purpose, and Structure - the four areas where business owners often experience loss after leaving their companies. And listeners will also hear about the “Happiness Portfolio,” a framework designed to help business owners build a purposeful and balanced life after the sale.  This discussion highlights what it means to move from success to significance and why a collaborative team approach makes all the difference in preparing for the next chapter. This episode offers valuable insight for both entrepreneurs planning their own exit and advisors supporting clients through transition. To dive deeper into this topic, join Next Chapter Partners for their upcoming CEPA Masterclass: Introducing Personal Readiness: A CEPA’s Guide to Having the Conversation, taking place online on September 24, 2025, from 11 AM–12 PM CST. Register here Contact Susan at Susan@NextChapterLifestyleAdvisors.com Connect with Susan here Contact Marianne at Marianne@NextChapterLifestyleAdvisors.com Connect with Marianne here Find Next Chapter Lifestyle Advisors here Connect with Julie Keyes, Keyestrategies LLC Founder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor

    30 min

  6. AUG 27

    Laying the Foundation for a Legacy

    In this episode of Poised for Exit, we sit down with Kathleen Wickstorm, CEO of Spec 7 Group, a construction company specializing in waterproofing and protecting commercial buildings. Kathy shares her unusual journey from a career in healthcare to running a successful construction business, and how she has grown Spec 7 Group into a trusted partner for contractors, property managers, and building owners. Kathy discusses the company’s core services, including waterproofing, concrete raising, and green roofing, and highlights the importance of maintaining and preserving buildings for the long term. She also talks about her experience as a woman entrepreneur in a male-dominated industry, what it took to earn her woman-owned business certification, and how she has woven family succession planning into the future of the company. Julie and Kathy also explore the challenges and opportunities of leading a family-run business, the role of strategic planning in sustainable growth, and why developing strong service relationships is key to stability during uncertain times. From major projects with universities and hospitals to everyday facility maintenance, Kathy offers insight into what it takes to build credibility, trust, and longevity in construction. This episode is a great listen for entrepreneurs, family business owners, and anyone interested in how leadership, planning, and perseverance can transform both a business and an industry!   Contact Kathleen at kwickstrom@spec7group.com Connect with Kathleen here Find Spec 7 Group here Connect with Julie Keyes, Keyestrategies LLC Founder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor

    25 min

  7. AUG 21

    Frameworks For Success

    In this episode of Poised for Exit, we sit down with Liz Ennenga, CEO and Founder of Quad E Companies, Inc. to explore her inspiring transition from the corporate world to becoming a 100% shareholder of her own contracting firm. Liz shares how she left a successful corporate career at Target to launch Quad E, an excavation company focused on small to medium-sized commercial and government projects, and what she’s learned building a nimble, union-based team in a male-dominated industry. She and Julie dive into the importance of mentorship, storytelling, and relationship-building when growing a business. Plus, they discuss the role that confidence and trust play in leadership and compensation (especially for women founders). You’ll hear Liz’s philosophy on smart, efficient growth, how she identifies ideal general contractor partners, and why she’s embracing exit planning early after reading Julie’s book. From building scalable systems to attending Julie's upcoming workshop on the 24th, Liz is laying the groundwork now to ensure Quad E can continue to grow and succeed well into the future. Contact Liz at Elizabeth.Ennenga@quadecompanies.com Connect with Liz here Find Quad E Companies, Inc. here Connect with Julie Keyes, Keyestrategies LLC Founder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor

    27 min

  8. AUG 14

    Behind the Scenes of Starting and Scaling a Business

    In this episode of Poised for Exit, we sit down with Erica Haataja, owner of Nordic Shine LLC to uncover how she and her husband built a refined construction-site cleaning business that thrives on purposeful systems and real connection. Erica breaks down Nordic Shine’s standout services - whether it’s post-construction clean-ups for commercial sites or recurring maintenance plans. She highlights their edge: genuine communication, detail-oriented work, and a values-driven approach to hiring that ensures trust and performance. As a female entrepreneur in a male-dominated field, Erica shares how involvement with the Association of Women Contractors helped her overcome imposter syndrome and affirm her worth - including learning to say “no” when a job doesn’t align with her standards. Looking ahead, Erica outlines a strategic growth vision spanning the next three to five years: cultivating steady recurring contracts in multi-unit and commercial spaces, building a pipeline of high-caliber cleaners, and systemizing operations with checklists and streamlined workflows. Her psychology background also plays a powerful role in her leadership. She uses emotional intelligence and humor to connect with crews, defuse tension on-site, and handle tough moments with poise and professionalism. This episode gave you a true look behind the scenes of starting and scaling a business - proof that ambition, systems, and heart make all the difference. Contact Erica at nordicshinellc@gmail.com Connect with Erica here Find Nordic Shine, LLC here Connect with Julie Keyes, Keyestrategies LLC Founder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor

    26 min
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5
out of 5
19 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Poised for Exit podcast! Poised for Exit is an under 30-minute strategic planning guidance podcast for busy small business owners. Each week you’ll hear certified exit planning advisor, Julie Keyes, talk with a range of entrepreneurs and professionals about preparing your business for a future transition. Guests at every stage of company ownership will share their personal stories and lessons learned about topics such as the anatomy of the exit planning process, developing a growth strategy, how to sell on your terms, exit planning for women small business owners, handling business diversity, and how to sell a family business. Whether you’re planning an exit in the near future or not, this show will provide you with the same action-oriented content that Julie utilizes while consulting with Keyestrategies clients. Building an exit strategy can be overwhelming, especially with all the decisions and details you have to consider. “Poised for Exit” will simplify the process and help you unwrap the unknowns, giving you more confidence in your planning process. Previous episodes are available for download, so if you are new to our show, you can listen to them in any order that suits you. Join us each week for timely, relevant content that will surely impact your business exit outcome! Subscribe to our newsletter below to receive your weekly episode link and stay updated on new strategic planning content. Find “Poised for Exit” on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Play, iHeart Radio, Amazon Music, and others. Thank you to our Sponsors: Sunbelt Business Advisers and JAK CPA's. A special note of thanks to Tyler Keyes who produced the music for the “Poised for Exit” show.

Information

  • Creator
    Julie Keyes
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    264
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Poised for Exit
  • Show Website
    Poised for Exit

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