The M&A Mastermind Podcast Nick Olsen

In this episode of the M&A Mastermind Podcast, Nick Olsen interviews Ryan Buist, a partner at Portage M&A Advisory, about the importance of business valuations in the M&A process. They discuss how valuations can help business owners plan for retirement, involve trusted advisors in the process, and ensure a smooth sale. Buist emphasizes the need for early valuations to allow for tax planning and value enhancement strategies. He also highlights the importance of building trust with clients and referral sources, and the role of valuations in qualifying leads. The episode concludes with a discussion on nurturing clients and staying top of mind for future opportunities. 
 
Key Takeaways: 
Business valuations are crucial for helping business owners plan for retirement and ensuring they are comfortable with the sale price of their business. 
 
Involving trusted advisors, such as wealth planners, accountants, and lawyers, in the valuation process can help build trust and ensure a smooth sale. 
 
Early valuations allow for tax planning and value enhancement strategies to increase the value of the business. 
 
Building trust with clients and referral sources is essential for success in the M&A industry. 
 
Nurturing clients and staying top of mind through value-added services can lead to future opportunities. 
 
Chapters: 
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 
04:06 The Role of Valuations in Portage's Firm and Client Acquisition 
09:25 Revenue Generation and Benefits of Valuations 
16:31 The Importance of Trusted Advisors and Accountants 
28:08 Plug for Portage's Podcast and Conclusion 
 
Key Topics: M&A, business valuations, retirement planning, trusted advisors, tax planning, value enhancement, qualifying leads, nurturing clients

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the M&A Mastermind Podcast, your ultimate destination for navigating the latest industry trends and strategies to elevate your M&A practice. I'm your host, Nick Olsen, Managing Director of Cornerstone International Alliance, the premier international alliance of M&A firms specializing in the lower middle market. In this episode, we're joined by a true mastermind in the world of M&A, Teddy Saltzstein, Partner at Six Pillars Partners based in Dallas.
Teddy brings a wealth of experience to the table, having transitioned from Deloitte to private equity and even stepping into the tech startup arena as a CEO. With a Bachelor's and Master's degree from the University of Texas under his belt, Teddy's journey through various sectors has provided him with unique insights into the intricacies of M&A.
In our engaging conversation, Teddy shares invaluable insights into the importance of realistic projections in M&A transactions. We explore how projections serve as the cornerstone for evaluating future cash flows and determining the growth potential of a business. Teddy emphasizes the significance of data-driven projections, urging M&A advisors to focus on tangible metrics such as historical performance, lead generation, and customer retention.
As we delve deeper, Teddy sheds light on the critical role of management team involvement in shaping projections and aligning growth expectations. He underscores the need for transparency and collaboration between buyers and sellers to ensure shared understanding and realistic forecasts.
Moreover, Teddy provides actionable advice for M&A advisors on crafting compelling narratives around projections, emphasizing the importance of articulating growth strategies and addressing potential challenges upfront. By adopting a thorough approach to due diligence and embracing open communication, advisors can empower buyers and sellers to make informed decisions and drive successful M&A outcomes.
Tune in to gain invaluable insights from Teddy Saltzstein on navigating projections and unlocking growth opportunities in M&A transactions. Whether you're a seasoned M&A professional or an aspiring advisor, this episode offers invaluable guidance for mastering the art of M&A strategy and execution.
To learn more about Teddy Saltzstein and Six Pillars Partners, visit their website at sixpillarspartners.com. Don't miss out on this insightful episode of the M&A Mastermind Podcast!

In this episode of the M&A Mastermind Podcast, host Nick Olsen sits down with Mark Stephenson, President and Co-founder of Cube Business Media, to explore the intricate world of M&A events, conferences, and trade shows. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, Mark shares invaluable insights into the dynamics of networking and strategic planning within the M&A landscape.
From his journey in the events and trade show business to founding Cube Business Media in 2015, Mark provides a firsthand account of the evolution of M&A events and the strategies that have propelled his success. Together, they delve into the significance of authentic connections, strategic networking techniques, and overcoming challenges in the M&A arena.
Mark's expertise extends to advising entrepreneurs and business owners on large-scale exit strategies, drawing from his own experience of selling a business to a public U.S. company in 2007. He emphasizes the importance of preparation and the role of M&A advisors in maximizing the value of a business sale.
The conversation also explores the inception of the Business Transition Forum, a conference dedicated to helping business owners navigate the complexities of transitioning their businesses. Mark sheds light on the challenges of maintaining confidentiality while providing a platform for entrepreneurs to learn and network effectively.
As they reflect on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on M&A events, Mark discusses the strategic shift towards integrating growth strategies into conferences, attracting a wider audience of business owners.
Throughout the episode, listeners gain actionable insights and real-world examples, making it a must-listen for M&A professionals looking to enhance their networking skills and stay ahead in the ever-evolving landscape of mergers and acquisitions.
Tune in to gain insider insights and practical strategies for navigating M&A events and maximizing opportunities in the marketplace.

Welcome to The M&A Mastermind Podcast, where industry expert Nick Olsen engages in an illuminating discussion with Dr. Allie Taylor, a leading authority in business psychology. In Episode 28, listeners are treated to a deep dive into the art of client engagement and communication, as Dr. Taylor shares her invaluable insights on understanding and connecting with business owners on a profound level.
As the conversation unfolds, Dr. Taylor and Nick explore practical strategies for advisors to navigate client interactions with empathy, authenticity, and effectiveness. They delve into the importance of self-awareness and emotional regulation, urging advisors to recognize their own communication styles and how they impact client relationships.
Listeners gain actionable tips for fostering rapport and trust with business owners, from asking meaningful questions to actively listening and adapting communication approaches to suit individual preferences. Dr. Taylor emphasizes the significance of meeting clients where they are and prioritizing their needs above all else, ensuring a mutually beneficial partnership built on trust and understanding.
The episode also highlights the transformative power of self-reflection and mindfulness in client engagements, as Dr. Taylor shares practical exercises for advisors to regulate their emotions and maintain focus during challenging conversations. From deep breathing techniques to body scans and intention setting, listeners discover simple yet powerful strategies for enhancing their presence and effectiveness in client interactions.
Tune in to Episode 28 of The M&A Mastermind Podcast for an enlightening exploration of client engagement strategies rooted in empathy, authenticity, and psychological insight. Gain valuable insights from Dr. Allie Taylor and elevate your client relationships to new heights.

Welcome back to another enlightening episode of the M&A Mastermind Podcast, your go-to resource for exploring the intricacies of mergers and acquisitions. In this episode, host Nick Olson welcomes Bob McCormack, founder of Murphy McCormick Capital Advisors, for an in-depth discussion on the complexities of goodwill in M&A transactions.
Together, Nick and Bob dissect the concept of goodwill, delving beyond tangible assets to uncover its true significance in company valuations. Drawing from Bob's extensive expertise, they explore how factors such as brand reputation, processes, technologies, and management teams contribute to the creation and assessment of goodwill.
The conversation extends to the challenges associated with goodwill, including financing obstacles and potential impairments. Bob offers valuable insights into strategies for mitigating these challenges and maximizing goodwill value for both buyers and sellers. Listeners will gain valuable knowledge to enhance their understanding of goodwill's impact on M&A transactions and learn practical strategies for navigating its complexities. Whether you're a seasoned M&A professional or a newcomer to the field, this episode provides invaluable insights to help you navigate the dynamic landscape of mergers and acquisitions with confidence.

Join host Nick Olsen as he delves into the world of ESOPs (Employee Stock Ownership Plans) with expert Jeremy Huish, Vice President at Corporate Transition Consulting. In this insightful episode, Jeremy shares his vast experience and knowledge, offering invaluable insights into how ESOPs can be an option in the realm of M&A (Mergers and Acquisitions).
Discover the nuances of ESOP implementation, its benefits, and why it's a viable alternative for businesses considering succession planning or seeking innovative exit strategies. From tax advantages to employee ownership, Jeremy breaks down the complexities of ESOPs in a digestible format, making it accessible for both seasoned M&A professionals and newcomers alike.
Learn about the ideal scenarios where ESOPs shine, industries that are more conducive to ESOP transactions, and crucial considerations for M&A advisors contemplating this route for their clients. Gain practical insights into navigating conversations with clients, collaborating effectively with ESOP experts, and integrating ESOPs seamlessly into your M&A practice.
Whether you're a seasoned M&A advisor or a business owner exploring exit options, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and actionable advice to help you leverage ESOPs effectively in today's dynamic business landscape. Tune in and discover how ESOPs could be the solution you've been seeking when traditional M&A deals hit roadblocks.