72. From Vision to Exit: Business Growth and Sale Strategies with Mark Bradley

The Business of Doing Business with Dwayne Kerrigan

In this powerful episode, serial entrepreneur Mark Bradley shares his journey from tradesman to successful business owner, discussing the psychological aspects of selling a business, the importance of purpose, and strategic approaches to business growth and exit planning.

Episode Timeline

Introduction and Early Insights (00:00 - 05:00)

• 00:00 - Opening reflection on business growth and learning
• 00:13 - Host Dwayne Kerrigan's introduction
• 01:00 - Discussion on business metrics and simplification
• 02:00 - The importance of business budgeting
• 04:00 - Mark's background and entrepreneurial journey

Business Evolution and Growth (05:00 - 12:00)

• 05:00 - Discussion of personal growth in business
• 07:00 - The importance of vision and goal setting
• 08:00 - Finding mentors and building teams
• 10:00 - Leadership philosophy and team building
• 11:00 - The "C students hire A students" perspective

Business Sale Experience (12:00 - 20:00)

• 12:00 - Psychological preparation for selling a business
• 13:00 - Managing purpose post-sale
• 15:00 - Dealing with team transitions
• 17:00 - Finding the right buyer and CEO
• 19:00 - Maintaining community connections post-sale

Strategic Business Exit Planning (20:00 - 30:00)

• 20:00 - Common mistakes in business sales
• 22:00 - Prioritizing stakeholders during sale
• 24:00 - Private equity considerations
• 27:00 - Discussion of earnouts and deal structures
• 29:00 - Employee stock options as exit strategy

Market Trends and Opportunities (30:00 - 39:00)

• 30:00 - Private equity market evolution
• 32:00 - Technology enablement in small businesses
• 34:00 - Growth through acquisition strategies
• 36:00 - Value creation through business combination
• 38:00 - Final thoughts and episode wrap-up

Key Takeaways

Business Fundamentals

• The importance of understanding business metrics and budgeting
• Simplifying complex business concepts for better management
• Building a strong financial foundation through systematic approaches

Growth Strategy

• Creating clear vision and goals for business development
• The value of finding and learning from mentors
• Importance of building strong teams and delegating effectively

Exit Planning

• Psychological preparation for business sale
• Maintaining purpose and direction post-sale
• Considering all stakeholders in exit strategy
• Employee stock options as alternative to private equity

Acquisition Strategy

• Understanding business valuation multiples
• Opportunities in combining smaller businesses
• Strategic growth through acquisition
• Technology enablement as value driver

Leadership Insights

• Building purposeful business relationships
• Creating value through team development
• Maintaining mission alignment during transitions
• Balancing financial and human aspects of business

About Mark Bradley

Mark Bradley is a successful entrepreneur who built and sold both a landscape company and a software business. Starting with just basic equipment, he grew his landscape business significantly before developing software solutions that eventually became a successful standalone company. His approach combines practical business experience with innovative technology solutions.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-bradley-lmn/

Connect with Dwayne Kerrigan

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dwayne-kerrigan-998113281/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/businessofdoingbusinessdk

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebusinessofdoingbusinessdk/

Website: www.dwaynekerrigan.com

Disclaimer The views, information, or opinions expressed by guests during The Business of Doing Business are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Dwayne Kerrigan and his affiliates. Dwayne Kerrigan or The Business of Doing Business is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of any of the information contained in the podcast series. The primary purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. Listeners are advised to consult with a qualified professional or specialist before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast.