Regret Proof Your Business Part 1 - David Shavzin & Maria Forbes

Your Next: A Guide to Finding Fulfillment After Your Exit Hosted by Jerome Myers

What if selling your business could be the proudest moment of your career, not your biggest regret?

In this episode, Jerome Myers talks with David Shavzin, founder of The Value Track and co-founder of the Exit Planning Exchange Atlanta. With decades of experience in exit planning and M&A, David shares why so many entrepreneurs feel disappointed after selling, and how you can avoid it.

Discover how to think like a buyer, increase your business's transferable value, and prepare for a successful, meaningful exit.

If you’re ready to transition from business owner to legacy builder, you won’t want to miss this conversation.

[00:00 – 07:50] The Cost of Poor Planning

• 75% of owners regret selling, early planning is the antidote
• Baby Boomer wealth transfer = huge opportunities + huge risks
• Lack of preparation = loss of personal and generational wealth

[07:50 – 23:50] Own the Buyer’s Mindset

• Big myths busted: quick exits, easy deals, setting your price
• Buyers pay for cash flow, not dreams
• Make yourself irrelevant to maximize business value

[23:50 – 33:00] Valuation Truths and the Realities of Selling Your Business

• Industry multiples mislead, true value is complex and specific
• Expect a 9–18-month sales process full of due diligence landmines
• Clean financials and strong prep = higher price and faster close
  

[33:00 – 42:00] Flex Your Exit: Deal Structures and Dream Teams

• Not all exits are cash-outs, mergers, internal transitions, and family sales matter
• Flexible structures win
• Assemble your exit dream team early: M&A advisor, CPA, attorney, financial planner

[42:00 – 46:00] How to Regret-Proof Your Business Sale

• Get laser-clear on personal and financial goals
• Build a company that thrives without you
• Start planning NOW, the future-you will thank you

Key Quotes:

“Think like a buyer as you grow your company.” — David Shavzin

“If you want to sell your company successfully, your goal should be to make yourself irrelevant.” — David Shavzin

Connect with David!

Website: https://getonthevaluetrack.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidshavzin/

Connect with Maria!

Website: https://firepowerteams.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariacforbes/

Ready for your next chapter?

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