050 Exit Planning

with Darryl Bates-Brownsword

· EXITING

What if you spend years growing a business, only to discover it’s practically unsellable? In this episode, we explore how founders can avoid that fate. We dive into the art of planning an exit from day one, the power of streamlined processes, and the real reason messy finances scare buyers away. We also highlight how systemizing your leadership approach can free you up to focus on big-picture thinking.

Below are some practical insights from our conversation:

Four Core Machines to Build

  • Marketing Machine: Generate leads predictably and track your acquisition costs.
  • Talent Machine: Recruit and develop people who can step into key roles if you step away.
  • Workflow Machine: Document end-to-end processes for each product or service.
  • Leadership Machine: Make sure your team has a consistent rhythm for communication, strategy, and accountability.

A systematic approach attracts higher offers and saves you from the dreaded “founder trap.” When you keep your business running smoothly without your daily involvement, potential buyers—or successors—gain confidence in its future stability.

Watch the Full Episode on Exit Planning below:

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