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The Exit Plan Podcast

Business & Economics Podcasts

Exit Plan is a podcast for business owners and those who want to be business owners. I’m always in search of the lesser known stories of entrepreneurship. In the Exit Plan podcast, you’ll hear stories from start up to sale, and hear from the professionals who helped business owners achieve their exit. Hosted by me, author and private equity manager Dana Robinson, along with my co-hosts and guests, you’ll hear real stories, tips, and tools that will help you plan for the exit you want, whether you are still working a day job or already running a business. From their studio in sunny San Diego, the Opt Out Life welcomes guests who are solopreneurs, entrepreneurs, travelers, and creatives, who are proof that you can choose lifestyle over money . . . But still make money, too. Each episode of the Opt Out Life podcast combines the incredible entrepreneurial stories of our friends, with an instructional approach to applying the tactics people are using right now to earn passive income and travel the world. Our guests live non-traditional lives, without job titles, and often without jobs at all. They wear t-shirts and have no boss. They spend time doing what they want, traveling and earning substantial income in creative ways. We invite you to join the ranks of people who live the Opt Out Life.

Location:

United States

Description:

Exit Plan is a podcast for business owners and those who want to be business owners. I’m always in search of the lesser known stories of entrepreneurship. In the Exit Plan podcast, you’ll hear stories from start up to sale, and hear from the professionals who helped business owners achieve their exit. Hosted by me, author and private equity manager Dana Robinson, along with my co-hosts and guests, you’ll hear real stories, tips, and tools that will help you plan for the exit you want, whether you are still working a day job or already running a business. From their studio in sunny San Diego, the Opt Out Life welcomes guests who are solopreneurs, entrepreneurs, travelers, and creatives, who are proof that you can choose lifestyle over money . . . But still make money, too. Each episode of the Opt Out Life podcast combines the incredible entrepreneurial stories of our friends, with an instructional approach to applying the tactics people are using right now to earn passive income and travel the world. Our guests live non-traditional lives, without job titles, and often without jobs at all. They wear t-shirts and have no boss. They spend time doing what they want, traveling and earning substantial income in creative ways. We invite you to join the ranks of people who live the Opt Out Life.

Language:

English


Episodes
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Lifestyle vs. Asset Businesses (ft. Saul Cohen)

5/20/2025
Saul Cohen, drawing from his own entrepreneurial journey and the experience of watching his father navigate building and exiting a business, now specializes in helping business owners plan for successful exits and avoid common pitfalls. His work focuses on making sure entrepreneurs consciously decide whether they’re building a lifestyle business or an asset to sell, and then guiding them through the next steps—whether that’s careful tax planning, optimizing for risk, or preparing for acquisitions. Key themes included: Difference: Lifestyle vs. Asset/Legacy businesses Importance of early exit planning Value of execution over ideas Learning from business failures Preparing businesses for acquisition Wealth transfer and acquisition opportunities Emotional aspects of business valuation and exit — Saul's Email: saul.cohen@theexperteye.co.uk Saul's Website: https://profitbooster.scoreapp.com/ Saul's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cohensaul/ — Follow Dana on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danabrobinson/ Follow Dana on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danarobinsonofficial/ Subscribe to Dana’s weekly newsletter at https://www.danarobinson.com — If the information in these conversations and interviews have helped you in your business journey, please subscribe to the show, and leave me an honest review. Your reviews and feedback will not only help me continue to deliver great, helpful content, but it will also help me reach even more amazing entrepreneurs just like you! *Some of these links might be affiliate links. Thank you in advance if you choose to work with one of the companies I believe in. The money I make from your purchase helps to keep the content you enjoy, and rely on to grow your own business, free to you. Thanks for tuning into this episode of Exit Plan!

Duration:00:55:26

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Succession Planning (ft. Tim Smith)

5/13/2025
Tim Smith started out as a child actor and singer in New York City, then turned to business. He got the investing bug, started building his own wealth management and advisory firms, and over time became the founder of a boutique financial services platform with around 100 advisors and billions under oversight. Along the journey, he not only helped entrepreneurs prepare for their exit and long-term financial health but also became a real advocate for financial literacy, especially for creatives and the next generation through his “Financial Dad” podcast. Key themes included: — Tim's Email: tim@aurorapw.com Tim's Website: https://www.aurorapw.com Tim's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thefinancialdad — Follow Dana on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danabrobinson/ Follow Dana on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danarobinsonofficial/ Subscribe to Dana’s weekly newsletter at https://www.danarobinson.com — If the information in these conversations and interviews have helped you in your business journey, please subscribe to the show, and leave me an honest review. Your reviews and feedback will not only help me continue to deliver great, helpful content, but it will also help me reach even more amazing entrepreneurs just like you! *Some of these links might be affiliate links. Thank you in advance if you choose to work with one of the companies I believe in. The money I make from your purchase helps to keep the content you enjoy, and rely on to grow your own business, free to you. Thanks for tuning into this episode of Exit Plan!

Duration:00:57:28

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Cash Flow (ft. MC Laubscher)

1/7/2025
M.C. Laubscher is a dynamic entrepreneur, investor, and best-selling author dedicated to empowering business owners through innovative wealth strategies. As the founder of Producers Wealth, he enhances financial well-being across the U.S., while his educational platform, Cashflow Ninja, has influenced over 7 million people globally. Renowned for his acclaimed podcasts and publications, M.C. shares valuable insights on financial independence and legacy-building, earning recognition from Entrepreneur Magazine and membership in elite financial circles like the Forbes Finance Council. Check out his webpage dedicated to Exit Plan listeners: www.producerswealth.com/optout Key themes included: Gambling vs. business strategy Importance of savings systems Cash management and banking instability Life insurance as savings vehicle Strategic borrowing against policies Market cycles and business strategy Diversification and cash flow management — MC's Email: MC@mclaubscher.com MC's Website: https://producerswealth.com/ MC's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mclaubscher/ MC's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/producerswealth MC's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecashflowninja/ MC's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/cashflowninja — Follow Dana on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danabrobinson/ Follow Dana on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danarobinsonofficial/ Subscribe to Dana’s weekly newsletter at https://www.danarobinson.com — If the information in these conversations and interviews have helped you in your business journey, please subscribe to the show, and leave me an honest review. Your reviews and feedback will not only help me continue to deliver great, helpful content, but it will also help me reach even more amazing entrepreneurs just like you! *Some of these links might be affiliate links. Thank you in advance if you choose to work with one of the companies I believe in. The money I make from your purchase helps to keep the content you enjoy, and rely on to grow your own business, free to you. Thanks for tuning into this episode of Exit Plan!

Duration:00:47:22

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Supercharge Sales (ft. Mike Latch)

12/3/2024
With over 25 years of experience in electrical engineering, physics, and sales, Mike has tapped into the unique insights of how technology and process can revolutionize sales strategy. As CEO of Patter AI, he continues to champion these revolutionary tech-driven strategies that supercharge strategic sales and has been instrumental in the extraordinary growth of several high profile companies. These methodologies are now detailed further in ‘Sales Sucks’, his newest book, co-authored by friend and colleague Gregg Murphy. Key themes included: Entrepreneurial Lessons Sales Process Development Mixed Sales Methods Patter AI Platform Scaling with Technology Sales Team Training Financial Best Practices — Mike's Email: mike@patter.io Mike's Website: www.salessucksbook.com Mike's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikelatch/ — Follow Dana on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danabrobinson/ Follow Dana on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danarobinsonofficial/ Subscribe to Dana’s weekly newsletter at https://www.danarobinson.com — If the information in these conversations and interviews have helped you in your business journey, please subscribe to the show, and leave me an honest review. Your reviews and feedback will not only help me continue to deliver great, helpful content, but it will also help me reach even more amazing entrepreneurs just like you! *Some of these links might be affiliate links. Thank you in advance if you choose to work with one of the companies I believe in. The money I make from your purchase helps to keep the content you enjoy, and rely on to grow your own business, free to you. Thanks for tuning into this episode of Exit Plan!

Duration:00:59:47

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Tax Strategies ft. Liz Steblay

11/26/2024
Liz Steblay has been a wise mentor to thousands of self-employed professionals, helping them realize their dreams of becoming solo entrepreneurs. With decades of experience building her own solopreneur career, including founding a national talent agency that made the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies in the U.S. twice, Liz has distilled the formula for solopreneur success down to six essential keys. As the bestselling author of Succeeding as a Solopreneur, published in partnership with Inc. Magazine in March, Liz explains how these keys are crucial for overcoming FUD—fear, uncertainty, and doubt—and paving the way for long-term success. Key themes included: Retainer Pricing and Client Trust Building Wealth Through Tax Reduction Solopreneurship to Entrepreneurship Transition Networking and Business Development Financial Management for Solopreneurs Overcoming Fear and Uncertainty Effective Pricing Strategies — Liz's Website: www.sixkeys.info Liz's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/independentconsulting/ — Follow Dana on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danabrobinson/ Follow Dana on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danarobinsonofficial/ Subscribe to Dana’s weekly newsletter at https://www.danarobinson.com — If the information in these conversations and interviews have helped you in your business journey, please subscribe to the show, and leave me an honest review. Your reviews and feedback will not only help me continue to deliver great, helpful content, but it will also help me reach even more amazing entrepreneurs just like you! *Some of these links might be affiliate links. Thank you in advance if you choose to work with one of the companies I believe in. The money I make from your purchase helps to keep the content you enjoy, and rely on to grow your own business, free to you. Thanks for tuning into this episode of Exit Plan!

Duration:00:56:30

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Improving Business Value (ft. Justin Goodbread)

11/19/2024
Justin Goodbread is a renowned entrepreneur, author, and business coach with over 30 years of experience in scaling and exiting successful businesses. Beginning his entrepreneurial journey at just 15, Justin learned early the transformative power of business ownership and financial independence. His impressive track record includes selling his last business for over $10 million within just 49 months, marking him as a top-tier expert in the business community. Justin's expertise is particularly valuable for seasoned business owners, especially those in service industries with annual revenues exceeding $500,000. He excels in helping these entrepreneurs break through growth barriers and prepare for lucrative exits. His strategic guidance focuses on enhancing business value and making companies appealing to potential buyers. Justin addresses critical issues like feeling trapped in one's business and navigating transitions, offering actionable solutions for accelerated growth and successful exits. Key themes included: Business Transaction Trends Exit Strategy Planning Hiring Challenges Documentation and Systems Business Value Improvement Entrepreneurial Transition Coaching and Mentorship — Justin's Website: https://www.justingoodbread.com/ Justin's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justingoodbread/ Justin's X: https://x.com/justingoodbread Justin's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@justingoodbread Justin's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justingoodbread/ Justin's Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/justingoodbread — Follow Dana on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danabrobinson/ Follow Dana on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danarobinsonofficial/ Subscribe to Dana’s weekly newsletter at https://www.danarobinson.com — If the information in these conversations and interviews have helped you in your business journey, please subscribe to the show, and leave me an honest review. Your reviews and feedback will not only help me continue to deliver great, helpful content, but it will also help me reach even more amazing entrepreneurs just like you! *Some of these links might be affiliate links. Thank you in advance if you choose to work with one of the companies I believe in. The money I make from your purchase helps to keep the content you enjoy, and rely on to grow your own business, free to you. Thanks for tuning into this episode of Exit Plan!

Duration:00:45:28

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Private Equity Practices (ft. Adam Coffey)

11/12/2024
With over 21 years of experience as a CEO, Adam Coffey has led three major companies under private equity sponsors, mastering turnarounds and acquisitions. He's an author of bestselling books, like The Exit Strategy Playbook, and brings his wealth of experience to his consulting practice, guiding numerous entrepreneurs towards successful exits. Beyond his professional achievements, Adam cherishes personal growth and work-life balance, offering invaluable advice on building strong company cultures and meaningful connections. "My worst payday ever in the world of private Equity was a 2x multiple of invested capital. However, my best payday ever was 11 times multiple of invested capital." Key themes included: Private Equity Practices: Buying and selling companies. Business Integration: Aggregating smaller companies. Entrepreneurial Growth: Buy-and-build model. M&A Strategy: Multiple arbitrage and due diligence. Private Equity Dynamics: Investment periods and paydays. Continuous Learning: Personal and professional development. Company Culture: Attracting and retaining talent. — Adam's Website: http://www.ceoadvisoryguru.com/ Adam's LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/adamecoffey/ — Follow Dana on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danabrobinson/ Follow Dana on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danarobinsonofficial/ Subscribe to Dana’s weekly newsletter at https://www.danarobinson.com — If the information in these conversations and interviews have helped you in your business journey, please subscribe to the show, and leave me an honest review. Your reviews and feedback will not only help me continue to deliver great, helpful content, but it will also help me reach even more amazing entrepreneurs just like you! *Some of these links might be affiliate links. Thank you in advance if you choose to work with one of the companies I believe in. The money I make from your purchase helps to keep the content you enjoy, and rely on to grow your own business, free to you. Thanks for tuning into this episode of Exit Plan!

Duration:01:01:12

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Investment Insights (ft. Seth Damski)

11/5/2024
Seth Damski, the visionary behind Old City Investment Partners, curated an extraordinary event – the "Alpha on the Delta" conference. This wasn't your run-of-the-mill finance gathering; picture engaging discussions during the day and epic performances by The Rolling Stones at night. Quite a unique experience, right? "So if we're really doing our job right, you know, we've gotten to know our investors, you know, really well. Often over the course of years, if not decades." Key themes included: Effective fund manager attributes Importance of due diligence Seth Damski's career journey Old City's investment strategy Role of placement agents Investor-manager relationship building Alpha on the Delta conference — Seth's Website: www.alphaonthedelta.com Seth's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-damski-6833b11/ Old City Investment Partners: https://www.linkedin.com/company/old-city-investment-partners/ — Follow Dana on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danabrobinson/ Follow Dana on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danarobinsonofficial/ Subscribe to Dana’s weekly newsletter at https://www.danarobinson.com — If the information in these conversations and interviews have helped you in your business journey, please subscribe to the show, and leave me an honest review. Your reviews and feedback will not only help me continue to deliver great, helpful content, but it will also help me reach even more amazing entrepreneurs just like you! *Some of these links might be affiliate links. Thank you in advance if you choose to work with one of the companies I believe in. The money I make from your purchase helps to keep the content you enjoy, and rely on to grow your own business, free to you. Thanks for tuning into this episode of Exit Plan!

Duration:00:51:57

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Overcoming Fears (ft. Cindy Carrillo)

10/29/2024
Cindy Carrillo is a dynamic entrepreneur and coach dedicated to supporting business leaders and entrepreneurs. From founding a pivotal backup care program to helping companies create boutique benefits, Cindy's career has been marked by a blend of strategic innovation and compassionate leadership. She's passionate about guiding others through change and transitions, offering a unique immersion coaching experience on her picturesque ranch in Colorado. Her book, "Finding Your Next," delves into overcoming blockers to change and thriving personally and professionally. "...one that keeps us the most from changing, and that's our willingness to settle because we're fearful of the unknown, we're fearful of failure." Key themes included: Scaling Challenges in Consulting Firms. Transition from Personal Consultancy to Company Growth. Fear of the Unknown and Failure. Importance of Complementary Teams. Leadership and Strategic Thinking. Entrepreneurial Mindset and Business Growth. Work-Life Balance Solutions for Employees. — Cindy's Website: https://www.findingyournxt.com/ — Follow Dana on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danabrobinson/ Follow Dana on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danarobinsonofficial/ Subscribe to Dana’s weekly newsletter at https://www.danarobinson.com — If the information in these conversations and interviews have helped you in your business journey, please subscribe to the show, and leave me an honest review. Your reviews and feedback will not only help me continue to deliver great, helpful content, but it will also help me reach even more amazing entrepreneurs just like you! *Some of these links might be affiliate links. Thank you in advance if you choose to work with one of the companies I believe in. The money I make from your purchase helps to keep the content you enjoy, and rely on to grow your own business, free to you. Thanks for tuning into this episode of Exit Plan!

Duration:00:57:22

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Lean Startups (ft. Adam House)

10/22/2024
Adam House, a serial entrepreneur with seven businesses under his belt, knows the dedication it takes to build a thriving startup, often working 100-hour weeks. He advocates for running lean, believing economic constraints steer clear of poor decisions, and emphasizes the need for solid foundations and strategic vision over merely capital. Adam's personal journey took him from a successful exit at age 32 to fulfilling a lifelong dream in semi-pro basketball, only to return to business with renewed vigor and an eye on innovation in healthcare analytics. His philosophy encompasses the power of vision, the importance of relationships, and learning through doing, ensuring that progress and action are central to any entrepreneurial endeavor. Key themes included: Importance of Action and Progress Vision Over Capital in Business Critique of "Finding Your Why" Balancing Faith and Fear Mentorship and Advisory Significance Self-Leadership and Role Understanding Testing, Failing, Learning, Iterating — Website: https://www.houseofbricks.io/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamhousesr/ — Follow Dana on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danabrobinson/ Follow Dana on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danarobinsonofficial/ Subscribe to Dana’s weekly newsletter at https://www.danarobinson.com — If the information in these conversations and interviews have helped you in your business journey, please subscribe to the show, and leave me an honest review. Your reviews and feedback will not only help me continue to deliver great, helpful content, but it will also help me reach even more amazing entrepreneurs just like you! *Some of these links might be affiliate links. Thank you in advance if you choose to work with one of the companies I believe in. The money I make from your purchase helps to keep the content you enjoy, and rely on to grow your own business, free to you. Thanks for tuning into this episode of Exit Plan!

Duration:00:50:57

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Premium Pricing (ft. Surabhi Shenoy)

10/15/2024
Surabhi Shenoy is a CEO Coach who helps ambitious tech founders scale their businesses and increase the value of their business to achieve lasting wealth. Her unique coaching approach blends personal and business transformation, drawing on her own experience as a 2x successful entrepreneur with multiple exits. Surabhi’s journey began in 2005 when she co-founded Tejora Technologies with her husband, Nitin. After his passing in 2017, she took full control of the business during a period of intense personal and professional challenges. Despite the odds, she led Tejora to growth and a successful exit in early 2022. Through her experiences, Surabhi developed the CEO Mastery framework. This system empowers founders by focusing on vision, strategy, mindset, and skillset, while also optimizing their business for growth through strategic offers, financial management, and efficient operations. Key themes included: Premium Pricing Strategy Productizing Services for Scalability Value Creation Over Cost Competition Importance of Mentorship Data-Driven Decision Making Business Skill Development Operational Efficiency and Cost Control — Website: www.surabhishenoy.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/surabhi-shenoy-ceo-coach/ — Follow Dana on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danabrobinson/ Follow Dana on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danarobinsonofficial/ Subscribe to Dana’s weekly newsletter at https://www.danarobinson.com — If the information in these conversations and interviews have helped you in your business journey, please subscribe to the show, and leave me an honest review. Your reviews and feedback will not only help me continue to deliver great, helpful content, but it will also help me reach even more amazing entrepreneurs just like you! *Some of these links might be affiliate links. Thank you in advance if you choose to work with one of the companies I believe in. The money I make from your purchase helps to keep the content you enjoy, and rely on to grow your own business, free to you. Thanks for tuning into this episode of Exit Plan!

Duration:01:04:13

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From Founder to CEO (ft. Matt Sharrers)

10/9/2024
Former SBI CEO Matt Sharrers, renowned for guiding the firm to consecutive recognitions as one of America’s Most Admired Management Consulting Firms by Forbes, now focuses on empowering CEOs and advising private equity firms. After grooming his successor, he transitioned to coaching leaders through transformative phases. Matt’s latest mission centers on facilitating successful transitions for founder CEOs and accelerating scale for second CEOs, articulated in his impactful book, “The Second CEO: Accelerating Scale When Following the Founder.” As a Second CEO who followed a founder, Matt brings unique insight, having not only witnessed these dynamics through his coaching and board work but also having lived through them firsthand. With a career spanning three decades, Matt’s expertise, honed through roles as an athlete, F500 executive, and CEO of a PE-backed company, underscores his commitment to enabling extraordinary results in a domain ripe with opportunity. Motivated by impact rather than monetary gain, Matt seeks to inspire and effect profound change through his writing and consulting endeavors. Key themes included: Succession Planning: Founder to Professional CEO Self-awareness and humility in leadership Structured sales and management systems CEO and team transition requirements Nostalgia and ego management Revenue as a business value driver Role of private equity firms — Website: www.etjadvisory.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattsharrers/ Email: Msharrers@etjadvisory.com — Follow Dana on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danabrobinson/ Follow Dana on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danarobinsonofficial/ Subscribe to Dana’s weekly newsletter at https://www.danarobinson.com — If the information in these conversations and interviews have helped you in your business journey, please subscribe to the show, and leave me an honest review. Your reviews and feedback will not only help me continue to deliver great, helpful content, but it will also help me reach even more amazing entrepreneurs just like you! *Some of these links might be affiliate links. Thank you in advance if you choose to work with one of the companies I believe in. The money I make from your purchase helps to keep the content you enjoy, and rely on to grow your own business, free to you. Thanks for tuning into this episode of Exit Plan!

Duration:00:49:40

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Exploring Franchising (ft. Adam Goldman)

9/24/2024
The nation’s top franchise coach and consultant, Adam Goldman, knows that even with well-paying jobs, there is one major problem in Corporate America: you can't pursue your own dreams while working for someone else. Franchising has allowed Adam, a father of three, to achieve his dreams. Over the past 9 years, Adam has helped hundreds of people to change their lives through franchise business ownership. He helps others find the right franchise for them and goes on to match them with the right opportunity in their area. Key themes included: Challenges in First Business Year Importance of Franchise Model Adherence Semi-Absentee Franchise Ownership Leveraging Family in Franchising Financing and Investment Considerations Role of Franchise Coaches Service Business Opportunities — Website: https://www.franchiseadam.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamgoldmanfranchise/ — Follow Dana on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danabrobinson/ Follow Dana on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danarobinsonofficial/ Subscribe to Dana’s weekly newsletter at https://www.danarobinson.com — If the information in these conversations and interviews have helped you in your business journey, please subscribe to the show, and leave me an honest review. Your reviews and feedback will not only help me continue to deliver great, helpful content, but it will also help me reach even more amazing entrepreneurs just like you! *Some of these links might be affiliate links. Thank you in advance if you choose to work with one of the companies I believe in. The money I make from your purchase helps to keep the content you enjoy, and rely on to grow your own business, free to you. Thanks for tuning into this episode of Exit Plan!

Duration:00:47:16

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Balancing Debt and Equity (ft. Brian Parks)

9/17/2024
Brian Parks brings decades of expertise in both financial services and SaaS as the founder and CEO of Bigfoot Capital. Prior to Bigfoot Capital, he has honed his skills in various positions across companies, most notably as the co-founder of Brandfolder. Founded on the principles of stability, support, and partnership, Brian and Bigfoot Capital strive to be a lifeline for SaaS companies, improving their operational health to empower and drive growth. As a founder himself, Brian taps into his own experiences of growth, struggle, and resiliency to guide founders on a path of autonomy in how their companies achieve success. Key themes included: Balancing tech development and demand Pragmatic product development approach Horizontal vs. vertical market challenges Raising equity vs. debt funding Lending criteria and strategic borrowing Iterative learning and business success Persistence in driving revenue growth — Website: https://www.bigfootcap.com Newsletter: https://www.bigfootcapital.substack.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/parksbrian/ — Follow Dana on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danabrobinson/ Follow Dana on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danarobinsonofficial/ Subscribe to Dana’s weekly newsletter at https://www.danarobinson.com — If the information in these conversations and interviews have helped you in your business journey, please subscribe to the show, and leave me an honest review. Your reviews and feedback will not only help me continue to deliver great, helpful content, but it will also help me reach even more amazing entrepreneurs just like you! *Some of these links might be affiliate links. Thank you in advance if you choose to work with one of the companies I believe in. The money I make from your purchase helps to keep the content you enjoy, and rely on to grow your own business, free to you. Thanks for tuning into this episode of Exit Plan!

Duration:00:48:28

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Avoiding Burnout (ft. Eric Miller)

9/3/2024
Eric Miller understands the complex emotions tied to wealth creation and management, especially for those in service-based businesses. His empathetic approach acknowledges the guilt and shame that can hinder financial success and the importance of overcoming these barriers for growth and sustainability. By guiding business owners to make deliberate financial decisions, he helps them build and preserve their wealth effectively. Eric's strategies emphasize proper compensation, investment in growth, and avoiding burnout, ensuring business owners thrive both emotionally and financially. "There comes a point, I think, in any business where you got to make a decision, am I going to treat this thing as something that has the ability to expand in value? ... because in this universe, you are never going sideways, either going up or you're going down." Key themes included: Guilt and Shame in Wealth Decision-Making and Financial Impact Business Growth and Expansion Burnout Challenges and Prevention Business Exit Strategy and Preparation Proper Owner Compensation and Wealth Management Investment Caution Post-Business Sale — Website: https://econologicsfinancialadvisors.com/ — Follow Dana on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danabrobinson/ Follow Dana on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danarobinsonofficial/ Subscribe to Dana’s weekly newsletter at https://www.danarobinson.com — If the information in these conversations and interviews have helped you in your business journey, please subscribe to the show, and leave me an honest review. Your reviews and feedback will not only help me continue to deliver great, helpful content, but it will also help me reach even more amazing entrepreneurs just like you! *Some of these links might be affiliate links. Thank you in advance if you choose to work with one of the companies I believe in. The money I make from your purchase helps to keep the content you enjoy, and rely on to grow your own business, free to you. Thanks for tuning into this episode of Exit Plan!

Duration:00:48:13

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Active to Passive Investing (ft. Spencer Hilligoss)

8/27/2024
Spencer Hilligoss is the CEO of Madison Investing - a real estate investment club with bespoke, curated real estate deals. Spencer founded Madison Investing with a singular mission: to help busy, successful professionals invest passively and secure their most valuable asset of all: Time. By partnering with in-market, vetted operators, Madison Investing has $2.3B in acquisitions, with over 20,000 units. Investors now have access to cash-flowing private real estate syndications and funds, allowing them to enjoy passive returns as these businesses thrive. Before starting Madison Investing, Spencer was what some consider a “corporate junkie”, growing operations and sales teams in 5 high growth Fintech companies, over the span of 13 years. In 2019, five months before the pandemic, Spencer broke free from the golden handcuffs to give full focus on serving his investment group and growing Madison Investing. Now, as a full-time investor and entrepreneur, he can spend more time with his family and hone his skills on the electric guitar. He is a registered member of FINRA and a member of the Forbes 2022 Real Estate Council. "It takes a team of people and immense amounts of capital to go and buy these big buildings, improve them, and hold them for long periods of time at a profit." Key themes included: Investment Goals Consistent income vs. capital growth Networking Building long-term relationships Real Estate Strategies Acquiring and managing properties Financial Benefits Property improvements and exits Market Timing Impact on investment outcomes Due Diligence Vetting teams and deals Passion and Transition From tech to real estate — Website: http://www.madisoninvesting.com/ Email: spencer@madisoninvesting.com Phone: 415.290.0328 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shilligoss/ — Follow Dana on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danabrobinson/ Follow Dana on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danarobinsonofficial/ Subscribe to Dana’s weekly newsletter at https://www.danarobinson.com — If the information in these conversations and interviews have helped you in your business journey, please subscribe to the show, and leave me an honest review. Your reviews and feedback will not only help me continue to deliver great, helpful content, but it will also help me reach even more amazing entrepreneurs just like you! *Some of these links might be affiliate links. Thank you in advance if you choose to work with one of the companies I believe in. The money I make from your purchase helps to keep the content you enjoy, and rely on to grow your own business, free to you. Thanks for tuning into this episode of Exit Plan!

Duration:00:55:05

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NFT Strategizing (ft. Ryan Duffy)

8/20/2024
Ryan Duffy is a seasoned entrepreneur who effortlessly leverages his extensive background in Hollywood and tech to drive innovation. He started with a small team at Vidme, ultimately cultivating a company philosophy that prioritized careful, methodical growth. Through numerous ventures, including pioneering an early NFT platform and founding the audio course platform Knowable, Ryan has faced and overcome countless challenges. Now at Medium, he continues to draw from his rich experience to navigate the creator economy with his latest venture, Stack. "One of the hardest things I've ever had to do professionally...trying to explain what an NFT is. And if you think about it, it's like, it's digital, but, like, you own it." Key themes included: Early NFT Platform Struggles Knowable's Audio Course Challenges Pandemic's Impact on E-learning Vidme's Monetization and Infrastructure Issues Transition to Medium Leveraging Career Skills and Experience New Venture Focused on Creator Economy — Website: www.duffy.work Contact: https://duffy.work/contact-form LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanpatrickduffy/ — Follow Dana on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danabrobinson/ Follow Dana on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danarobinsonofficial/ Subscribe to Dana’s weekly newsletter at https://www.danarobinson.com — If the information in these conversations and interviews have helped you in your business journey, please subscribe to the show, and leave me an honest review. Your reviews and feedback will not only help me continue to deliver great, helpful content, but it will also help me reach even more amazing entrepreneurs just like you! *Some of these links might be affiliate links. Thank you in advance if you choose to work with one of the companies I believe in. The money I make from your purchase helps to keep the content you enjoy, and rely on to grow your own business, free to you. Thanks for tuning into this episode of Exit Plan!

Duration:00:57:05

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Wealth Strategy (ft. Matt Rinkey)

8/13/2024
Matt Rinkey is a wealth advisor and certified exit planner who specializes in helping entrepreneurs and real estate investors maximize their business value and achieve their financial goals. With a background in family office, hedge fund, and real estate, Matt brings a wealth of experience to support his clients in building the right strategies for wealth creation and life aspirations. Through his boutique team's comprehensive approach and flat fee model, Matt serves as a valuable resource for entrepreneurs, providing guidance on day-to-day financial questions and major life-altering events. His expertise focuses on integrating personal and business planning, exit planning, and creating customized investment checklists to help clients prioritize their business growth and avoid common pitfalls. "So how do we make them better as investors? And that's just not by, hey, send your money here." Key themes included: 1. Gaining expertise from clients and members 2. Entrepreneurial strategies for tax planning 3. Evaluating financial team and wealth creation 4. Exit planning and maximizing business value 5. Investing based on core values, checklist 6. Integrating personal aspirations with business goals 7. Importance of early planning for entrepreneurs — Website: http://www.illuminationwealth.com/ Contact: matt@illuminationwealth.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattrinkey/ — Follow Dana on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danabrobinson/ Follow Dana on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danarobinsonofficial/ Subscribe to Dana’s weekly newsletter at https://www.danarobinson.com — If the information in these conversations and interviews have helped you in your business journey, please subscribe to the show, and leave me an honest review. Your reviews and feedback will not only help me continue to deliver great, helpful content, but it will also help me reach even more amazing entrepreneurs just like you! *Some of these links might be affiliate links. Thank you in advance if you choose to work with one of the companies I believe in. The money I make from your purchase helps to keep the content you enjoy, and rely on to grow your own business, free to you. Thanks for tuning into this episode of Exit Plan!

Duration:00:50:38

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Creating Value (ft. Lee Benson)

8/6/2024
Lee is a value creation expert, a skill not commonly discussed when it comes to scaling and preparing for exits. I know you listeners would love to hear about his practical tools and insights on this. Lee is also a 2x bestselling author with over 30 years of experience in the business world and currently the CEO of Execute to Win. He has founded and led seven companies, including Able Aerospace, which he grew from two to 500 employees and 2,000 customers in 60 countries culminating in a 9-figure exit in 2016. "How would you like to create value in the world?" Key themes included: 1. Value creation as the key business focus 2. Importance of aligning business model and strategy 3. Benson's methodology applicable to all business sizes 4. Benson's entrepreneurial journey 5. Simplicity and focus in business growth frameworks 6. Criticisms of higher education's lack of practicality 7. Fostering value creation mindset in youth — Website: www.etw.com Contact: bo@evancarmichael.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lee-benson-5b6101/ X: https://twitter.com/executetowin?lang=en-GB — Follow Dana on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danabrobinson/ Follow Dana on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danarobinsonofficial/ Subscribe to Dana’s weekly newsletter at https://www.danarobinson.com — If the information in these conversations and interviews have helped you in your business journey, please subscribe to the show, and leave me an honest review. Your reviews and feedback will not only help me continue to deliver great, helpful content, but it will also help me reach even more amazing entrepreneurs just like you! *Some of these links might be affiliate links. Thank you in advance if you choose to work with one of the companies I believe in. The money I make from your purchase helps to keep the content you enjoy, and rely on to grow your own business, free to you. Thanks for tuning into this episode of Exit Plan!

Duration:00:58:16

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College Planning (ft. Brad Baldridge)

7/30/2024
Brad Baldridge is a financial advisor specializing in college planning, helping families navigate the complex landscape of college costs and financial aid. With a background in engineering, Brad transitioned into financial advising and found his niche in assisting clients with the increasingly challenging task of managing college expenses. He emphasizes the importance of individualized approaches to college planning, considering each student's unique needs, abilities, and career aspirations. Brad's expertise extends beyond college planning to comprehensive financial portfolio management, offering a holistic approach to financial advising for his clients. "If you take a $60,000 school and you get 35,000 of scholarships and you're down to 25, that's about where the state school probably is going to be. Either way, you still have to pay 30,000. So that's the next step, right, is how do we pay that efficiently?" Key themes included: 1. Financial planning strategies for businesses and families 2. Multiple paths to success beyond college 3. Complex situations require early, specialized planning 4. Entrepreneurial lessons from "The King's Fly Swatter" 5. College costs, aid, and efficient payment options 6. Financial aid challenges for entrepreneurs' income assessment 7. Importance of specialized advisors for college planning — Website: www.tamingthehighcostofcollege.com Contact: https://tamingthehighcostofcollege.com/contact/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradbaldridge/ — Follow Dana on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danabrobinson/ Follow Dana on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danarobinsonofficial/ Subscribe to Dana’s weekly newsletter at https://www.danarobinson.com — If the information in these conversations and interviews have helped you in your business journey, please subscribe to the show, and leave me an honest review. Your reviews and feedback will not only help me continue to deliver great, helpful content, but it will also help me reach even more amazing entrepreneurs just like you! *Some of these links might be affiliate links. Thank you in advance if you choose to work with one of the companies I believe in. The money I make from your purchase helps to keep the content you enjoy, and rely on to grow your own business, free to you. Thanks for tuning into this episode of Exit Plan!

Duration:00:57:06