Run your business like you’re going on maternity leave

Have you ever considered that knowing too much about your company’s product or service could be a disadvantage? Sometimes, not being a technical expert can help you avoid a common trap many founders fall into.

Markets ripe for roll-ups don’t stay that way forever. Once private equity enters, competition drives valuations higher and makes acquisitions less attractive. Early movers capture the lion’s share of value, whether they’re selling or leading the charge.

When Sean McAuliffe sold his company, he had a lot going for him. His distribution business was generating nearly $19 million in revenue. Margins were healthy. Growth was solid. And yet, when it came time to sell, his company was valued at around four times EBITDA, a relatively modest value for a $19 million company.

The reason? Sean didn’t fully control his supply chain—and buyers noticed.

For business owners considering their endgame, learning what makes a company valuable can feel overwhelming. Buyers prioritize factors like recurring revenue, a differentiated product or service, and a leadership team that operates independently from the owner. If a business doesn’t check every box, it can seem as though selling is perpetually just out of reach.

Your age has a big impact on your attitude toward your business, and your feelings about one day getting out of it. For example, one…

In the early days, Luke Peters sold portable air conditioners and thermostats online. When he made a sale, he’d head to a local industrial supply store, buy the unit, and ship it to his customer. He added no value and operated as a thinly veiled reseller with razor-thin margins. But Luke began thinking…

Have you ever wondered why some athletes struggle to transition from player to coach? This challenge isn't just limited to sports; it’s a critical shift that many business owners need to make to build a valuable business. Take Wayne Gretzky, for example…