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Episode 43: The Business Behind the Exit with Laurie Barkman

YT Card Episode 43

Laurie Barkman, the business transition sherpa, is the former CEO of a $100 million revenue company that was sold to a Fortune 50. For more than a decade, Laurie has guided business owners and entrepreneurs through the often overwhelming process of transition planning, ensuring they let go when they’re ready and get rewarded for their hard work. In this episode Laurie and Paul discuss the inspiration behind her business title, why stories matter in the world of M&A, and how she works with her clients.

Key Takeaways

  1. Business transition is a journey, not just an exit, requiring proactive planning that addresses both personal and business readiness. 
  2. Adopting a "sherpa" mentality in business transition involves providing guidance, tools, and experience to help owners navigate the complexities of growth and succession. 
  3. Personal stories and the "head, heart, and wallet" all play crucial roles in the M&A process, proving that it’s more than just numbers. 
  4. Proactive planning for business transition, including considering potential disruptions and having contingency plans, can increase a company's value and attractiveness to buyers. 
  5. Connecting with experienced advisors and resources provides invaluable support and clarity for business owners contemplating their next chapter.

Timestamps

00:00 Host Introduction 

00:14 Guest Introduction: Laurie Barkman 

02:32 Laurie’s Capital S Story 

09:13 About Succession Stories Podcast 

11:40 Why Stories Matter in M&A 

18:14 How Laurie Works with Clients 

20:57 How Laurie Started Business Transition Sherpa 

25:32 About Laurie’s Book: The Business Transition Handbook 

27:40 The Importance of Being Coachable as a Business Owner 

30:35 How to Connect with Laurie Online

Related Episodes

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Storylines Live Episode 26
Storylines Live Episode 38

Connect with Paul and the WordWrite Team

Follow Paul on LinkedIn. 

Follow WordWrite on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter (X). 

Subscribe to WordWrite’s YouTube channel for more marketing tips and tricks. 

Learn how WordWrite helps businesses uncover their Capital S Stories. 

Connect with Laurie Barkman

Visit her company’s website. 

Listen to the Succession Stories Podcast. 

Read her book, The Business Transition Handbook: How to Avoid Succession Pitfalls and Create Valuable Exit Options. 

Follow her on LinkedIn.

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