10: Behind the Exit: Lessons from Ross Shanken’s Nine-Figure Journey with Jornaya

From Angel To Exit

Ross Shanken, founder and former CEO of Jornaya, shares the story behind building a pioneering lead verification platform and guiding it to a nine-figure exit. In this episode of From Angel to Exit, Ross unpacks the strategic frameworks, operational challenges, and personal insights that fueled his success—from initial market entry to final acquisition. It's a must-listen for founder-CEOs aiming to scale confidently and exit smartly.

Key Takeaways

• Establish your financial model early and revisit it often to inform strategic decisions.
  
• Align your leadership team using shared vision exercises like “headline planning.”
  
• Avoid exiting on investor-driven timelines—run your own deal process.
  
• Bring on key roles (like CFO) earlier than you think you need them.
  
• Use backcasting: start from your ideal exit and work backwards operationally.
  
• Honest internal dialogue creates stronger strategic alignment and execution.
  
• Validate your market thesis with early feedback loops from prospective acquirers.
• Sitting in discomfort post-exit can be a powerful period of personal growth.
  

Links & Resources

• Ross Shanken

  • https://www.linkedin.com/in/rossshanken/
  • www.vojomo.com
  • [email protected]
    

• Subscribe to the Podcast:

  • Find From Angel to Exit on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you listen. Be sure to hit “Subscribe” so you never miss an episode.

• Newsletter & Exclusive Content:

  • Sign up for the free newsletter at eckfeldt.com/podcast for episode transcripts, bonus insights, frameworks, and community updates.

• Connect with Bruce & the Community:

  • LinkedIn: Bruce Eckfeldt

  • Instagram: @bruce_eckfeldt

  • Email:

    • [email protected]

    • [email protected]