Podcast
The Deal Board
Hosted by Andy Cagnetta & JT Tatem · EN
The Deal Board podcast is a place for small business owners and entrepreneurs to learn the best way sell a business or buy a business. Business Exit Experts, Andy Cagnetta and JT Tatem, lead discussions with expert business brokers, M&A professionals, and entrepreneurs that have sold a business or bought a business. Whether you are looking to learn how to sell a business, information on business valuation, or how to buy a business – The Deal Board gives you the behind the scenes of the entire mergers and acquisitions world.
16episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
How Sellers Can Pre-Qualify Their Business for an SBA Loan
3d ago00:24:52Tap to summarizeAndy and JT welcome you to another episode of The Deal Board Podcast. This week, they explore why sellers should prequalify their businesses for Small Business Administration (SBA) financing before taking them to market. They discuss how prequalification can make a listing more attractive to buyers, why lenders want to see clean and current financials, and what sellers need to prepare before approaching a bank. Andy and JT also explain what a pre-screening letter does and does not guarantee, and why the buyer still needs to qualify based on credit, experience, available down payment, citizenship, and ability to operate the business. They delve into the importance of tax returns, profit and loss statements, balance sheets, seller's discretionary earnings, addbacks, business summaries, and transparency. They also explain how SBA-style preparation can still help sellers in markets outside the United States, even where government-backed small-business lending is unavailable. Tune in to learn how the right preparation can make your business easier to finance, market, and get across the finish line. Listing of the Week: JT Harp from Transworld Cincinnati presents a thriving commercial glass contracting company with a strong reputation for precision, reliability, and craftsmanship. The company specializes in high-end glazing, storefronts, and complete glass systems for major regional projects. With skilled crews, long-term client relationships, and established systems, this turnkey opportunity is positioned for continued profitability and growth. For more information, call JT on (513) 725-7283 or email him at jharp@tworld.com. Deal of the Week: Chris "Chip" Redmond from Transworld Orlando shares the recent sale of a cell phone repair store to a buyer who was already a repair technician. The seller was semi-absentee and lived out of state, so the buyer's hands-on technical experience created an opportunity to reduce employee costs and improve profitability. The deal included a lease assignment rather than an extension, which means the buyer will need to revisit the lease when the current term expires. For more information, call Chris (Chip) Redmond at (407) 326-6990 or email him at chrisredmond@tworld.com. Key Takeaways From This Episode: [00:30] Introduction and what listeners can expect from today's show. [01:19] Discover why a prequalification is essential when selling a business. [04:29] Learn how pre-screened listings help clarify down payment and loan structure. [05:43] Find out why banks rely on three years of tax returns for cash flow. [07:49] The importance of current financials, balance sheets, and profit and loss statements. [08:28] How discretionary earnings and EBITDA apply to different types of business buyers. [09:51] Explore why documented addbacks and expenses need to be explained. <li class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW191754468 BCX8" role="listitem" aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="•" data-font="Helvetica" data-listid="2" data-list-de...
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Business Owners and Divorce: Protecting Value and Avoiding Costly Mistakes with Kelly Lise Murray
2w ago00:41:02Tap to summarizeJT welcomes you to another episode of The Deal Board Podcast. This week, JT is joined by Kelly Lise Murray to unpack what happens when divorce intersects with business ownership. With decades of experience in family law and wealth disputes, Kelly explains why valuation in a divorce is rarely straightforward and often depends on the quality and balance of evidence presented. The conversation explores how courts approach business value differently from the open market, why relying on incomplete or one-sided information can shape outcomes, and how legal strategy, timing, and documentation all play a critical role. JT and Kelly also discuss the risks of letting disputes drag on, the cost of litigation versus early agreement, and why selling the business can sometimes provide the clearest path forward. They close with practical advice for business owners facing divorce, from cleaning up financials to treating the process like a business transaction. Tune in to learn how to protect value and navigate one of the most complex scenarios a business owner can face! Listing of the Week: Chris "Chip" Redmond (Central Florida) is offering a Book of Business in the healthcare insurance space, built on recurring revenue from Medicare Advantage plans. The business is driven by established relationships with major carriers, including United, Humana, Freedom, and Aetna, with 2025 figures verified directly from 1099s provided by the insurance companies. Listed at $415,000, this opportunity is well-suited for an insurance agent or agency looking to expand its footprint in the Central Florida market with reliable, repeat income. For more information, call Chris (Chip) Redmond at (407) 326-6990 or email him at chrisredmon@tworld.com Deal of the Week: A 20+ year-old management consulting business with recurring revenue and nationwide clients has successfully sold for $2.2 million. Listed by Marty Fishman of Transworld Business Advisors, the business generated strong interest, with hundreds of NDAs and multiple offers. An initial deal with a private equity buyer fell through during extended due diligence after attempts to renegotiate. After returning to market, the seller found the right fit in an independent buyer whose full-price offer aligned with expectations. Following another intensive due diligence and SBA process, the deal closed successfully, supported by a strong buyer-seller relationship and the seller's commitment to a smooth transition. For more information, call Marty Fishman at (754) 224-3134 or email mfishman@tworld.com Key Takeaways From This Episode: [00:29] Introducing Kelly Lise Murray and today's focus on divorce and business ownership. [02:25] How to ensure a smooth business transition during a divorce. [04:20] Real-world case example highlighting the cost of getting it wrong the first time. [06:43] Reflections on the high divorce rates in the US, especially among older couples. [08:37] How valuation is approached during divorce, either through mediation or courts. [10:25] The critical role of documentation and presenting strong, balanced valuation evidence. [14:26] Why it's best to agree with your spouse on valuation in court and sell if you can. <ul class="BulletListStyle1 SCXW16868372 BCX8" role="list"...
Transcribe →The State of Business Brokerage and Why IBBA Is Important With Jim Parker
Apr 1400:32:23Tap to summarizeAndy welcomes you to another episode of The Deal Board Podcast. This week, he sits down with Jim Parker, chairman of the International Business Brokers Association (IBBA), to explore how the business brokerage industry is evolving in today's market. With more buyers entering the space and a wave of baby boomer owners preparing to exit, Jim shares why business brokerage has moved into the spotlight and how increased professionalism, better technology, and broader access to capital are changing the deal landscape. The conversation covers the growth and strengths of the IBBA, the value of networking and collaboration among brokers, and how tools like AI are beginning to improve efficiency behind the scenes. They also discuss shifts in buyer behavior, including the rise of younger entrepreneurs and acquisition-focused teams competing alongside private equity. Tune in to hear what's driving today's market, where the industry is headed, and how brokers and business owners can stay ahead! Listing of the Week: An established roofing company in the Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky area is now available for purchase. With a long-standing reputation for quality craftsmanship, this business delivers strong, consistent profits and impressive seller's discretionary earnings. Offering a full suite of services, including roofing, gutters, siding, and custom sheet metal work, the company serves both residential and large commercial clients. With a skilled team, turnkey operations, and well-maintained equipment already in place, this is an excellent opportunity for an industry buyer or investor to step into a proven, reliable operation with continued growth potential. For more information, call JT Harp at (513) 725-7283 or email him at jharp@tworld.com. Deal of the Week: An underground utilities company in Central Florida has been successfully sold through a creative, seller-financed deal. After 45 years in business and a challenging year that ruled out SBA financing, the seller partnered with a motivated, out-of-state buyer eager to enter the industry. The buyer offered $100,000 over asking to secure seller financing, with $200,000 paid at closing and $900,000 financed by the seller. The seller will remain involved to train and mentor the buyer, ensuring a smooth transition. A great outcome for both sides! To learn more, contact Emily Krell at (352) 246-2266 or email emilykrell@tworld.com Key Takeaways From This Episode: [00:30] Introducing today's guest, IBBA chairman, Jim Parker. [02:33] An overview of the IBBA and its growth over the years. [04:14] Why business brokerage has surged in visibility in recent years. [04:50] The impact of baby boomer exits on buyer demand and deal flow. [06:03] Efficiency and professional gains in brokerage and increases in market activity. [09:44] Co-brokering, virtual deals, and the breakdown of geographic barriers. <p class="Paragraph S...
Transcribe →Why the Right Team Makes or Breaks a Deal
Mar 2500:25:16Tap to summarizeAndy and JT welcome you to another episode of The Deal Board Podcast. This week, they break down why building the right team is critical when buying or selling a business, and how to find your key players. Tuning in, you'll learn why deals are not a solo act and the key roles every buyer or seller should consider, from internal management to external advisors. The conversation explores how the strength of the team already running the business, also known as management depth, impacts valuation and buyer confidence, and why having the right people in place can make or break a deal. They also walk through the role of a business broker and how brokers help set expectations, price businesses correctly, and guide deals from start to finish. Beyond brokers, they cover the importance of CPAs, attorneys, lenders, and financial advisors, emphasizing the need for experienced, deal-focused professionals. Tune in to learn how the right team can protect value and help you successfully close your next deal! Listing of the Week: A well-established hardscaping and landscaping business in the Chicago area is now available for purchase! Family-owned and operated for over 30 years, this business has been built by the same owner and generates approximately $250,000 in earnings. Priced at $825,000 and supported by a solid base of equipment and a long-standing reputation, this is an excellent opportunity for a buyer to step into a proven operation with room to grow as the owner prepares for retirement. For more information, call Tony Sansone, of Transworld La Grange, at (708) 571-3373 or email tsansone@tworld.com. Deal of the Week: A thriving landscape design and maintenance business in South Shore, Massachusetts, has found the right buyer! With a strong reputation and experienced team, the business attracted a larger local company looking to expand. The buyer was able to seamlessly integrate the operation while retaining staff and minimizing disruption for customers, creating a strong fit for both sides. Another successful transaction for Transworld Boston! To learn more, call Brook Hartnett at (617) 860-4980 or email him at dhartnett@tworld.com. Key Takeaways From This Episode: [00:30] Today's topic: Building the right team. [01:30] Considering the type of business you're buying and its management depth. [04:18] Why you need a business broker during the buying and selling process. [12:05] The role of a CPA in preparing and supporting the deal. [14:15] Selecting the attorneys you'll need, depending on your business. [15:21] Choosing the right lender and understanding financing options. [18:41] Common mistakes to avoid when choosing your team. <li class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW6067828 BCX0" role="listitem" aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="•" data-font="Helvetica" data-listid="2" data-list-defn-props= "{"134224900":false,"201340374":0,"335552541":1,"335559685":240,"335559991":240,"469769226":"Helvetica","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"•","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" data-aria-posinset="8" data-ari...
Transcribe →Hey MR buyer, MRS buyer - DO THIS
Mar 1100:31:30Tap to summarizeAndy and JT welcome you to another episode of The Deal Board Podcast. This week, they break down what serious buyers need to do before pursuing a business acquisition in a competitive market. They explain how buyers can position themselves to move quickly when the right opportunity arises, the steps for defining your search criteria, why understanding your role as an owner is key, and how to prepare effectively to work with brokers. They also cover how to present professionally to sellers, why a clean asset purchase agreement can be more effective than a vague letter of intent, and how the right lenders, attorneys, and advisers can help keep a deal moving toward a successful closing. Tune in to learn how to stand out as a credible buyer and improve your chances of getting the right deal. Listing of the Week: This week's Listing of the Week is a sensor manufacturing business represented by Johnathan Choe of Transworld Oregon Central. The business generates approximately $4,500,000 in revenue, has strong gross margins, and produces around $1,000,000 in annual net income depending on the year. It is a consistent business and is expected to go to market soon on a bid basis. For more information, contact Johnathan at jchoe@tworld.com or call (541) 213-0234. Deal of the Week: This week's Deal of the Week is a molecular testing lab in Central Florida represented by Chris Redmond of Transworld Orlando. The business sold for $575,000, and the buyers saw value in the lab's billing setup, certifications, testing capabilities, and equipment, even though it was non-operational at the time of sale. The sellers are moving on to manufacture products for the medical industry, while the buyers plan to bring the lab back to life and resume billing immediately as part of their medical growth plans. For more information, contact Chris at credmond@tworld.com or call (407) 326-6990. Key Takeaways From This Episode: [00:30] Introduction to today's topic and what listeners can expect. [01:37] Learn about the importance of defining a clear buy box. [03:12] Explore the typical criteria that buyers should consider. [06:40] Hear about the common mistakes buyers often make. [10:34] Discover why geography, industry fit, and costs are essential aspects. [12:20] Find out how to show sellers you are serious about buying. [13:12] Advice for working with brokers to get access to the best deals. <li class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW190629706 BCX0" role="listitem" aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="•" data-font="Helvetica" data-listid="2" data-list-defn-props= "{"134224900":false,"201340374":0,"335552541":1...
Transcribe →10 Mistakes to Avoid When Selling a Business: Part 2
Feb 2500:23:23Tap to summarizeAndy and JT welcome you to another episode of The Deal Board Podcast. This week, they bring you Part 2 of a conversation about the top 10 things you want to avoid when putting your business on the market. We start by recapping the first five points from the previous episode before diving into the next five. Starting with unpacking how to sell off old inventory, we discuss what it might look like to get it to a workable level. Next, we remind you just how important it is to take home the money, and describe what it means to be a positive seller. Finally, you'll hear our take on getting your business in the box. Join us today for all this and more! Listing of the Week: Don Bray, from Transworld Buffalo, is selling a medium-sized daycare center with real estate in the suburbs of Buffalo. It is currently listed with seven offers, and it has just sold for 1.275 million. If you are looking to sell a daycare, reach out to Don on (716) 395-1430 or send him an email on dbray@tworld.com. Deal of the Week: Justin Pines, based DC, Annapolis & Baltimore North, sold a virtual events and experiences business in just 65 days. It was sold to a business that was acquiring other event companies and adjacent companies who made an offer that beat the others. For more information, find Justin Pines on LinkedIn, call him on (610) 457-7110 or email him at jpines@tworld.com. Key Takeaways From This Episode: [00:53] A recap of the key points in the first episode of this two-part series. [01:45] Why it's important to sell off old inventory or get it to a workable level. [05:28] Taking home the money. [07:39] Choosing to be a positive seller. [10:01] Getting your business in the box. [17:55] Deal of the Week: Justin Pines, based in DC, Baltimore North, Indianapolis, sold a virtual events and experiences business in just 65 days. [20:54] Listing of the Week: Don Bray, from Transworld Buffalo, is selling a medium-sized daycare center with real estate in the suburbs of Buffalo. Links Mentioned in Today's Episode: The Deal Board Podcast Subscribe to The Deal Board Podcast YouTube Channel <a class= "Hyperlink SCXW214197425 BCX0" href= "https://unitedfranchisegr...
Transcribe →10 Mistakes to Avoid When Selling a Business (Part 1)
Feb 1100:23:38Tap to summarizeAndy and JT welcome you to another episode of The Deal Board Podcast. This week, they are sharing advice for anyone selling their business and cautioning sellers against some common mistakes. Our experts are talking us through five of the ten most common mistakes sellers make when selling their businesses. From making sure records are in good order to cleaning up the appearance of the business, this episode is filled with pearls of wisdom for sellers. We even share some stories of our own selling disasters! To hear all this and so much more, be sure to press play now, and stay tuned for part two of this discussion! Listing of the Week: Garrick Foy from Transworld Flagstaff & Western Arizona is selling a third-generation construction business that's been around under its current ownership for just under 30 years for $3.25 million. The seller is looking for a really great buyer to take over the family legacy. For more information, call Garrick at (801) 380-5754 or email him gfoy@tworld.com. Deal of the Week: Evgeniy Krasowski from Transworld Boston recently sold a bookkeeping company that was in high demand in New England. Evgeniy's challenge was to find the right buyer for this seller who had built a personal relationship with local businesses and wanted the next owner to do the same. This sale wasn't about the price; it was about finding the right fit. For more information, call Evgeniy at (508) 972-7986 or email him at ekrasowski@tworld.com. Key Takeaways From This Episode: [00:00] Today's topic: mistakes to avoid as a seller. [01:47] The importance of getting your books and records in order. [05:15] Why you need to keep good books and records going forward. [08:45] The power of 'keeping your eye on the ball'. [10:43] Why you need to clean your business up when selling. [14:04] The concept of 'fix it or throw it out!' [18:52] Deal of the Week: Evgeniy Krasowski (Boston) sold a bookkeeping company in New England to a buyer who was the perfect fit. [21:43] Listing of the Week: Garrick Roy (Western Arizona) is selling a third-generation construction company for $3.25 million. Links Mentioned in Today's Episode: <p class="Paragraph SCXW73536577 BCX0" data-ccp-border-bottom= "0px none #000000" data-ccp-padding-bottom="0px" data-ccp-border-between="0px none #000000"...
Transcribe →Why Sellers Need a Broker: Back to Basics with Andrew Cagnetta and JT Tatem
Jan 2800:26:15Tap to summarizeAndy and JT welcome you to another episode of The Deal Board Podcast. This week, they get back to the real purpose of this podcast: to educate buyers and sellers. While there's a lot of information out there telling sellers that they don't need a broker, this conversation is here to bust that myth! Join them as they unpack six steps that reveal the true value of having an advisor or a broker on your side. From getting proper evaluation to having a clear, defensible reason for your price, they explore how expert guidance can shape the outcome of a sale. They discuss how to manage confidentiality without killing momentum, why price is not always the most important factor, and how due diligence brings intense scrutiny from buyers, attorneys, and CPAs. Finally, they break down how a broker helps keep deals moving when issues arise, and why, in a complex process, having the right advisor on your side can make all the difference. Listing of the Week: Marc Lazarus from Northern New Jersey is selling a 20-year-old security business that is currently doing 12 million toppling revenue. With receivables included in the deal, it is priced at 4.4 million dollars. For more information, call Mark on (201)203-2771 or send him an email at ml@tworld.com. Deal of the Week: Andrew Fillman from Transworld Detroit South resolved a conflict between seller and buyer to bring an offer up from $10,000 to $30,000 to bring about the best possible outcome for both parties. For more information, contact Andrew on (248) 565 - 5967 or email him at afillman@tworld.com. Key Takeaways From This Episode: [00:30] Why this podcast focuses on explaining why sellers really need a broker. [02:34] How having an advisor on your side can benefit your sale. [06:09] Why it is so important to get a proper evaluation and have a defensible reason for your price. [09:44] Managing confidentiality without killing momentum. [13:20] Why price is not always the most important factor in a sale. [15:31] Due diligence, buyer, attorney, and CPA scrutiny. [19:03] How a broker can keep things moving when issues arise. [22:21] Deal of the Week: Andrew Fillman resolved a conflict between seller and buyer by bringing the price up from $10,000 to $30,000. [24:16] Listing of the Week: Marc Lazarus is selling a 20-year-old security business in Northern New Jersey for $4.4 million. <p class="Paragraph SCXW82710029 BCX0" data-ccp-border-bottom= "0px none #000000" data-ccp-padding-bottom="0px" dat...
Transcribe →Goal Getting for Buyers: Turning Ownership Plans Into Action
Jan 1400:17:32Tap to summarizeAndy and JT welcome you to another episode of The Deal Board Podcast. This week, Andy and JT focus on what it really takes to become a business buyer in today's market. With more professionals exploring entrepreneurship through acquisition, they revisit the 8 Ws of Goal Getting and apply the framework specifically to buyers looking to move from employment to ownership. JT walks through how to define your goal, clarify your true motivation, anticipate obstacles, and understand the education, advisors, and timeline required to close a deal. The episode also challenges the idea that buying a business is quick or hands-off, emphasizing that success depends on preparation, commitment, and doing the work. If you're considering buying a business and want a clearer path forward, tune in to hear how the 8 Ws can help you move from intention to action! Listing of the Week: A long-standing discount carpet, tile, and flooring business with over 50 years of success is available in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. The sale includes the real estate, with a fully equipped showroom, warehouse, and office space that support efficient, profitable operations and add long-term investment value. With a strong reputation, established customer base, and trusted vendor relationships, the business offers immediate stability and clear growth opportunities in high-end custom design, commercial contracting, or eco-friendly flooring. For more information, call JT Harp and the team at (513) 725-7283 or email jharp@tworld.com. Deal of the Week: A photography business in Winder, Georgia, has successfully closed with a new owner after a long search for the right fit. First listed just before COVID-19, the business faced labor challenges and market uncertainty, leading the seller to pause the sale. Transworld Business Advisors of Lake Lanier stayed committed and ultimately matched the business with a buyer who had the talent to carry it forward. The deal closed in June, and the buyer and seller are already working together with strong synergy. For more information, call David Greeley at (770) 225-2910, extension 701, or email him at dgreeley@tworld.com Key Takeaways From This Episode: [00:30] Kicking off 2026 with the 8 Ws of Goal Getting for business buyers. [02:42] Framing the episode around entrepreneurship through acquisition. [04:45] The first W: writing your goal in clear, present-tense terms. [05:44] Two: Defining your "why" and uncovering the real motivation behind ownership. [07:00] Three: Identifying obstacles that can derail buyers before a deal closes. [07:46] Four: Skills and education buyers must develop before making an offer. [08:30] Five: Building the right deal team; advisors, lende...
Transcribe →15 Years of Franchising: Lessons Learned Building Transworld
Dec 2400:25:08Tap to summarizeAndy and JT welcome you to another episode of The Deal Board Podcast. This week, Andy and JT reflect on a major milestone: 15 years of franchising and the journey that took Transworld from a regional firm to a global brand. They walk through the limits of growing on their own, the need for partners with real ownership, and why franchising emerged as the right structure for sustainable expansion. The conversation breaks down what franchising actually requires, from documented systems and training to ongoing support and consistency across markets. Andy and JT also share lessons learned along the way, including early skepticism, defining moments with franchisees, and the importance of continual improvement. For business owners thinking about growth, this episode offers a grounded look at what it takes to scale without losing control. Tune in to hear how long-term vision and shared effort drive lasting growth! Listing of the Week: JT Harp, President and CEO of Transworld Business Advisors of Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, presents a fully outfitted brewery and taproom opportunity in a prime, high-traffic location. This turnkey space offers a complete build-out less than two years old, including a full bar, tap system, professionally designed kitchen, and an audio-visual setup with a private room for events. While no beer is currently brewed on site, the space is ideal for continuing a proven taproom model or introducing a new brand, menu, or concept. With strong area demographics and excellent visibility, this opportunity is ready for an owner with a fresh vision to step in and make it their own. For more information, call JT at (513) 725-7283 or email jharp@tworld.com. Deal of the Week: A Boston-area swim school franchise with five operating locations has successfully closed with a new owner. Built around a mission of water safety and swim education, the business attracted wonderful local families. After five years of ownership, the sellers chose to step back to spend more time with their children. The buyer, a local entrepreneur with a shared passion for swimming and water safety, proved to be a great fit. Despite the complexity of franchisor approval and coordinating leases with five pool facilities, the deal crossed the finish line smoothly. To learn more, call Brook Hartnett at (617) 860-4980 or email dhartnett@tworld.com. Key Takeaways From This Episode: [01:05] Looking back at the last 15 years of franchising at Transworld. [03:52] Realizing they lacked the expertise to franchise and needed experienced partners. [09:25] Why systems, documentation, and manuals are essential to franchising. [12:00] How franchising helps you improve your processes over time. [14:27] Reflecting on standout franchise moments over the past 15 years. [16:54] What it took to grow Transworld into a global brand. <p class="Paragraph SCXW26870654 B...
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