Sell Side

Michael Stanley

Tune in to the Sell Side podcast for a comprehensive exploration of the business selling journey. Join host Michael Stanley from Keel Point as he engages with business owners, attorneys, wealth advisors, and other experts, offering you an immersive, panoramic perspective on the transaction process.

  1. 2 THG 4

    Episode 30: How Private Equity Turns Small Businesses Into Big Exits

    In this episode of the Sell Side Podcast, we sit down with Wilbur to take a deeper dive into one of the most active areas in private equity today: roll-up strategies in fragmented service industries. We break down why sectors like landscaping, HVAC, pest control, and pool services have become prime targets for investors—and what makes these businesses so attractive for acquisition and growth. From recurring revenue and customer retention to EBITDA, multiples, and working capital, this conversation walks through the key factors that drive valuation and buyer interest. We also explore the differences between residential and commercial revenue, why maintenance contracts matter more than installs, and how operational efficiencies can dramatically increase a company’s value. Beyond the numbers, we cover what buyers are really looking for—strong teams, clean financials, low customer concentration, and scalable systems—and how business owners can position themselves for a successful exit. Finally, we break down the different types of buyers—from strategic acquirers to private equity groups and family offices—and what each path means for life after the deal. If you own or operate a service-based business, this episode is packed with insights on how to grow, scale, and ultimately maximize the value of what you’ve built. 🎙️ Listen now to learn how small businesses are being transformed into major opportunities through smart strategy and consolidation.

    52 phút
  2. 5 THG 2

    Episode 26: From Bookkeeping to Strategy: A Fractional CFO’s View with Shelby Ashley

    On this episode of Sell Side, host Michael Stanley sits down with Shelby Ashley, founder of Optimized Financial Solutions, to unpack what small business owners often misunderstand about their finances—and how that confusion can limit growth, cash flow, and exit opportunities. Shelby shares her journey from corporate financial analyst to fractional CFO and explains why most businesses outgrow basic bookkeeping long before they’re ready for a full-time CFO. The conversation dives into cash vs. accrual accounting, why profit on paper doesn’t always mean money in the bank, and how forward-looking financial strategy helps owners regain clarity and confidence. Michael and Shelby also explore the M&A side of small business finance, including preparing a company for sale, internal succession planning, common valuation mistakes, and how buyers should evaluate cash flow, debt, and operational risk before acquiring a business. Along the way, Shelby offers practical advice on hiring, forecasting, and removing the owner from day-to-day operations so the business can truly scale—or sell. Whether you’re overwhelmed by your numbers, thinking about an eventual exit, or considering acquiring another business, this episode delivers grounded, real-world insight into what healthy financial leadership actually looks like. https://optimizedfinancialsolutions.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelby-ashley-mba-a72903b9/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-k-stanley-jr-mba-cexp™-30916131/overlay/photo/

    33 phút

Giới Thiệu

Tune in to the Sell Side podcast for a comprehensive exploration of the business selling journey. Join host Michael Stanley from Keel Point as he engages with business owners, attorneys, wealth advisors, and other experts, offering you an immersive, panoramic perspective on the transaction process.

Có Thể Bạn Cũng Thích