Happiness Isn’t Something You Chase, It’s a Byproduct - Walter Paulsen

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

#Business #Transformation #Matrix #Fitness #Entrepreneur #Mental Health #Jerome Myers - The Preeminent Authority on Dream Realization #Self Image #Dream Realization #Relationship #Red Pill #Prosperity #Significance #Health and Well-Being #Founders

26:28

Squid Game is back—and this time, the knives are out. In the thrilling Season 3 premiere, Player 456 is spiraling and a brutal round of hide-and-seek forces players to kill or be killed. Hosts Phil Yu and Kiera Please break down Gi-hun’s descent into vengeance, Guard 011’s daring betrayal of the Game, and the shocking moment players are forced to choose between murdering their friends… or dying. Then, Carlos Juico and Gavin Ruta from the Jumpers Jump podcast join us to unpack their wild theories for the season. Plus, Phil and Kiera face off in a high-stakes round of “Hot Sweet Potato.” SPOILER ALERT! Make sure you watch Squid Game Season 3 Episode 1 before listening on. Play one last time. IG - @SquidGameNetflix X (f.k.a. Twitter) - @SquidGame Check out more from Phil Yu @angryasianman , Kiera Please @kieraplease and the Jumpers Jump podcast Listen to more from Netflix Podcasts . Squid Game: The Official Podcast is produced by Netflix and The Mash-Up Americans.…

about a year ago 42:14

MP3•Episode home

What if success isn’t enough? Many entrepreneurs reach financial freedom only to feel lost. Walter Paulsen, who built a $500M company, shares why wealth alone doesn’t bring fulfillment and what truly matters after the exit.

Expect real talk on resilience, competition, and finding purpose beyond business. Walter and Jerome Myers break down why some thrive post-exit while others struggle—and how to make sure you’re on the right path. Listen now to discover what makes success truly meaningful.

[00:00 - 04:55] - The Nature of Happiness & Purpose

Happiness is fleeting, not a permanent state
It’s a byproduct of meaningful work, not wealth
Chasing money without purpose leads to dissatisfaction

[04:56 - 07:30] - Competitive Mindset & Personal Growth

Walter’s sports background shaped his resilience
Self-competition builds long-term success
Physical challenges enhance mental toughness

[07:31] - Building a $500M Business in Four Years

Led Blackhawk Network, pioneering the gift card industry
Secured multi-year exclusivity deals before competitors reacted
Growth came from a mix of timing, execution, and partnerships

[16:00 - 24:15] - The Exit Paradox: What Happens After the Liquidity Event?

Many founders face identity loss post-exit
Financial success doesn’t guarantee purpose or fulfillment
Those without purpose often struggle with post-exit happiness

[24:16] - Finding the Right Problem to Solve

Solving the wrong problem leads to wasted effort
Small bets provide valuable insights
Grit matters, but only in the right direction

[32:00 - 41:29] - Transitioning to Coaching & Advising

Walter shifted from operator to advisor
Helps CEOs build strong company cultures
Loving your work is key to long-term fulfillment

Key Quotes:

“Happiness isn’t something you chase; it’s a byproduct of living with purpose.” – Walter Paulsen

“Small bets that don’t work out can be valuable because they show you where not to go.” – Walter Paulsen

Connect with Walter!

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

Ready for your next chapter?

Start Your Assessment Now 👉 https://theexitparadox.com/assessment

Leave a Review + Help Others Achieve a Great Legacy

If you found this episode valuable, leave us a review and share it with someone who wants to expand their business growth.

Your Next is more than a podcast—it’s a community that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and ages, united by a shared passion for personal growth and achieving excellence.

🎧 Explore our previous episodes or learn more about our mission at https://exittoexcellence.com. Your next chapter starts here!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

358 episodes

Happiness Isn’t Something You Chase, It’s a Byproduct - Walter Paulsen

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

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

[00:00 - 04:55] - The Nature of Happiness & Purpose

Happiness is fleeting, not a permanent state
It’s a byproduct of meaningful work, not wealth
Chasing money without purpose leads to dissatisfaction

[04:56 - 07:30] - Competitive Mindset & Personal Growth

Walter’s sports background shaped his resilience
Self-competition builds long-term success
Physical challenges enhance mental toughness

[07:31] - Building a $500M Business in Four Years

Led Blackhawk Network, pioneering the gift card industry
Secured multi-year exclusivity deals before competitors reacted
Growth came from a mix of timing, execution, and partnerships

[16:00 - 24:15] - The Exit Paradox: What Happens After the Liquidity Event?

Many founders face identity loss post-exit
Financial success doesn’t guarantee purpose or fulfillment
Those without purpose often struggle with post-exit happiness

[24:16] - Finding the Right Problem to Solve

Solving the wrong problem leads to wasted effort
Small bets provide valuable insights
Grit matters, but only in the right direction

[32:00 - 41:29] - Transitioning to Coaching & Advising

Walter shifted from operator to advisor
Helps CEOs build strong company cultures
Loving your work is key to long-term fulfillment

Key Quotes:

“Happiness isn’t something you chase; it’s a byproduct of living with purpose.” – Walter Paulsen

“Small bets that don’t work out can be valuable because they show you where not to go.” – Walter Paulsen

Connect with Walter!

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

Ready for your next chapter?

Start Your Assessment Now 👉 https://theexitparadox.com/assessment

Leave a Review + Help Others Achieve a Great Legacy

If you found this episode valuable, leave us a review and share it with someone who wants to expand their business growth.

Your Next is more than a podcast—it’s a community that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and ages, united by a shared passion for personal growth and achieving excellence.

🎧 Explore our previous episodes or learn more about our mission at https://exittoexcellence.com. Your next chapter starts here!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

358 episodes

All episodes

1
The Liberation of Authenticity: Stepping into Your True Self with Jerome Myers 14:37

20 hours ago14:37

14:37

Not every “no” sounds like a no. Some sound like “I need to talk to my advisor” or “I’m just tired.” In this eye-opening solo episode, Jerome Myers peels back the polite excuses founders often give and gets real about the resistance that’s quietly keeping you stuck. If you've ever hovered over the “Book the Intensive” button or convinced yourself now’s not the right time, this episode holds up a mirror and asks: Are you willing to stop circling the life you want and finally step into it? If you’re looking for clarity, this is your moment. [00:00 – 02:00] Sitting in the Gray Space Why founders pause at the edge of transformation Understanding indecision as quiet resistance What keeps people hovering without action [02:01 – 04:00] Common Objections That Mask Fear Avoiding action by blaming timing Doubting the process will work Deferring the decision to others [04:01 – 06:30] What’s Going On Avoiding stillness to escape deeper truths Relying on logic in emotional decisions Fear of choosing without external validation [06:31 – 09:00] The Identity Crisis After Success Losing clarity after stepping away from the role Feeling unknown beyond professional titles Navigating uncertainty after the exit [09:01 – End] Stepping Into Your Real Next What people discover when they say yes Building a life that feels aligned inside and out Starting the chapter that truly belongs to you Key Quotes: “You don’t need anyone else to give you permission to say yes to your next.” - Jerome Myers “Staying stuck is a decision, and so is saying yes.” - Jerome Myers Ready for your next chapter? Start Your Assessment Now 👉 https://theexitparadox.com/assessment Leave a Review + Help Others Achieve a Great Legacy If you found this episode valuable, leave us a review and share it with someone who wants to expand their business growth. Your Next is more than a podcast—it’s a community that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and ages, united by a shared passion for personal growth and achieving excellence. 🎧 Explore our previous episodes or learn more about our mission at https://exittoexcellence.com . Your next chapter starts here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

1
From Transactions to Transformation: Building a Life Aligned - Jerome Myers 17:19

9 days ago17:19

17:19

Your most meaningful moments begin after the exit. In this deeply personal solo episode, Jerome Myers reflects on the first half of 2025, not just what was accomplished, but what was transformed. Through unexpected moments of presence and alignment, he shares what life looks like when success is no longer the goal, but the foundation for something more. Whether you’re post-exit or preparing for one, this episode offers a rare, honest look at what comes next. [00:00 – 03:30] From Metrics to Meaning Reflecting on accomplishments beyond the surface Reframing the scoreboard of success Choosing alignment over endless achievement [03:31 – 06:30] The Silence After Success Confronting stillness after the summit Understanding the Founder’s Exit Paradox Beginning the inner work of reinvention [06:31 – 09:30] Moments That Redefine You Family milestones and legacy in action Letting joy lead through travel and play Finding aliveness through presence, not performance [09:31 – 12:30] Resonance Over Resume Living values through sacred rituals and reflection Recognizing impact beyond LinkedIn and titles Measuring life by connection, not credentials [12:31 – 16:00] Designing What Comes Next Asking the questions that shape your next chapter Rejecting default paths in favor of intention Embracing support and sacred reinvention Key Quotes: “You didn’t come this far just to coast. You came this far to elevate to new levels of impact, meaning, and legacy.” - Jerome Myers “The real reckoning only happens after the summit. When the exit is done, the money’s in the bank, and suddenly the calendar is quiet.” - Jerome Myers Ready for your next chapter? Start Your Assessment Now 👉 https://theexitparadox.com/assessment Leave a Review + Help Others Achieve a Great Legacy If you found this episode valuable, leave us a review and share it with someone who wants to expand their business growth. Your Next is more than a podcast—it’s a community that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and ages, united by a shared passion for personal growth and achieving excellence. 🎧 Explore our previous episodes or learn more about our mission at https://exittoexcellence.com . Your next chapter starts here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

1
Your Next Starts with Being Seen - Jerome Myers 18:30

16 days ago18:30

18:30

Why do successful founders disappear when they're on the edge of true personal growth? In this powerful solo episode, Jerome Myers unpacks the fear that holds many high achievers back, not fear of failure, but fear of being seen. He explores how achievement can become emotional armor and what it really takes to step into purpose after the exit. If you’ve ever felt lost after success, this episode offers the clarity, courage, and next steps you need. Listen now and start your next chapter with intention. [00:00 – 03:00] You Are Not Broken, You Are in Transition The internal calling beyond success The NEO Assessment as a personal mirror Starting the journey into clarity [03:01 – 07:00] The Hidden Side of the Exit Paradox Why founders disappear after success The moment when identity begins to unravel Fear disguised as logic and timing [07:01 – 10:00] When Identity Becomes Armor Achievement as emotional protection The illusion of fulfillment through productivity Breaking through surface-level success [10:01 – 14:00] From Ghosting to Growth: David vs. Erica A tale of two founder responses Avoiding transformation vs. embracing it The real difference courage makes [14:01 – 17:00] Choosing to Be Seen Letting go of performance-based identity Stepping into alignment and purpose The power of conscious choice Key Quotes: “They’re winning at business but silently losing the war within.” – Jerome Myers “Being seen means letting go of the version of yourself you curated for survival and stepping into the version that's aligned for significance.”– Jerome Myers Ready for your next chapter? Start Your Assessment Now 👉 https://theexitparadox.com/assessment Leave a Review + Help Others Achieve a Great Legacy If you found this episode valuable, leave us a review and share it with someone who wants to expand their business growth. Your Next is more than a podcast—it’s a community that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and ages, united by a shared passion for personal growth and achieving excellence. 🎧 Explore our previous episodes or learn more about our mission at https://exittoexcellence.com . Your next chapter starts here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

1
ICYMI - The CEO is the Bottleneck, Build it to Scale - Rick Martinez 52:57

23 days ago52:57

52:57

What happens when the check clears, and you still feel empty? In this powerful episode, Jerome Myers talks with Rick Martinez, a former ER nurse, Army officer, and founder who scaled a 600-person healthcare company and exited successfully, only to face an identity crisis no one warned him about. From ER shifts to military deployment to crying in his car after a $500K payday, Rick shares what happens after the win and why fulfillment matters more than freedom. If you’ve ever asked, “Is this all there is?”, this episode is for you. [00:00 – 12:00] Still in Scrubs: The Entrepreneur Who Kept Showing Up Why Rick still picks up ER shifts decades into success His transition from staff nurse to contractor to employer How one conversation in a hospital skybridge launched a business [12:01 – 21:00] Building Something Bigger (Without Realizing It) From $8/hour raises to doubling his income overnight Creating an agency by accident and growing to 600 employees The systems that scaled without needing a business degree [21:01 – 30:00] Service, Sacrifice, and the Truth About Scaling Military activation changes everything The moment he realized he was the problem, not the engine A brutal but freeing insight: the founder or CEO is often the biggest bottleneck [30:01 – 38:00] The Check, the Crash, and the Cry The wire hits. Rick sits in his Porsche with tears in his eyes What no one tells you about the emotional cost of success The first signs that the real journey was just beginning [38:01 – 45:00] Pain, Purpose, and a Spiritual Awakening A crushing injury in a CrossFit competition shifts everything Rick hears what he’d been ignoring and gets baptized Writing, service, and rediscovering what truly matters [45:01 – End] What’s Next: From Exit to Expression Why “never a W2 again” wasn’t enough How Rick found meaning in ghostwriting and mentoring His ultimate advice for those chasing more than money Key Quotes: “The founder, the CEO, is always the biggest bottleneck.” – Rick Martinez “Find the freedom that's going to fulfill you. Be relentless about it, and when you get there, share it with the world.” – Rick Martinez Connect with Rick! Website: https://www.therickmartinez.com/optin1620132235803 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rickmartinez Ready for your next chapter? Start Your Assessment Now 👉 https://theexitparadox.com/assessment Leave a Review + Help Others Achieve a Great Legacy If you found this episode valuable, leave us a review and share it with someone who wants to expand their business growth. Your Next is more than a podcast—it’s a community that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and ages, united by a shared passion for personal growth and achieving excellence. 🎧 Explore our previous episodes or learn more about our mission at https://exittoexcellence.com . Your next chapter starts here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

1
Healing Is Possible: Rebooting Trauma and the Brain - Dr. Don Wood 55:39

30 days ago55:39

55:39

What if trauma isn’t just in your head, but in your cells, your gut, your immune system? In this electrifying conversation, Jerome Myers is joined by Dr. Don Wood, the founder of the Inspired Performance Institute and creator of TIPP, a neuroscience-based program for trauma resolution. What begins as a deeply personal story about saving his daughter’s life turns into a profound revelation: most of what we treat with pills could be solved by healing the mind. If you’ve ever been told to just “manage” your anxiety, stress, or diagnosis, this episode is your wake-up call. [00:00 – 12:00] Trauma Is the Root, Not the Symptom “Medication is like giving tissue for a runny nose, what caused it?” Trauma often underlies anxiety, addiction, and even autoimmune disease Dr. Wood’s daughter's Crohn’s and lung disorder stemmed from childhood trauma, not just biology [12:01 – 22:00] The Brain Isn’t Broken, It’s Protecting You The subconscious runs 95% of your daily life and doesn’t understand time Emotional triggers (or “activations”) are unresolved calls for action “Anxiety is your mind trying to solve something from years ago, now.” [22:01 – 32:00] The Science of Reprocessing Memory Traumatic memories are stored in high-def; the solution is to reduce their intensity “We don’t erase memory, we reclassify it. So your brain sees it as past, not present.” Healing isn’t about forgetting; it’s about removing emotional dysregulation [32:01 – 42:00] It’s Not Just About Therapy, It’s About Resetting Traditional therapy relieves the trauma; TIPP reprocesses it safely and quickly "I don’t need the whole story, just the trailer.” The mind must feel safe before it can heal [42:01 – 49:00] Resilience is Built on Safety, Not Hardship “You don’t toughen a boxer by beating him before the fight.” A stable home builds resilience; trauma erodes it before life begins The system needs to feel safe to learn, grow, and repair [49:01 – End] Why He Didn't Stop After Saving His Daughter “We could’ve stopped. But we felt a calling.” Dr. Wood uses TIPP to help veterans, athletes, CEOs, and kids “Your mind and body are designed to heal. Trauma just gets in the way.” Key Quotes: “The mind and body are designed to heal. What’s interfering with it—in most cases, at least 80%—is unresolved trauma.” - Dr. Don Wood “You can’t sabotage yourself. Your brain’s a survival brain. It’s protecting you.” - Dr. Don Wood Connect with Dr. Wood! Website: http://www.inspiredperformanceinstitute.com/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drdonwoodphd Ready for your next chapter? Start Your Assessment Now 👉 https://theexitparadox.com/assessment Leave a Review + Help Others Achieve a Great Legacy If you found this episode valuable, leave us a review and share it with someone who wants to expand their business growth. Your Next is more than a podcast—it’s a community that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and ages, united by a shared passion for personal growth and achieving excellence. 🎧 Explore our previous episodes or learn more about our mission at https://exittoexcellence.com. Your next chapter starts here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

1
The Overlooked Leg of the Stool: Why Post-Exit Success is the Key to a Complete Exit Plan - Jerome Myers 56:14

5 weeks ago56:14

56:14

What happens after the founder exits? Too often, regret, confusion, and loss of identity. In this powerful session from the Exit Planning Institute, Jerome Myers delivers a wake-up call: most exit plans ignore the human element. While others focus on finances and operations, Jerome highlights the missing pillar: personal planning . Press play and rethink what it means to exit with excellence. [00:00 – 12:00] Exit is Inevitable, But Fulfillment is Not 100% of founders will exit: “Sell it, give it away, or close it.” Most advisors ignore personal planning, but it’s what leads to regret “The stool wobbles without the third leg. We’re building incomplete exits.” [12:01 – 25:00] The Founder’s Exit Paradox The paradox: rich and free, but lost “They decouple their identity from the business and enter a void.” Common regrets: loss of purpose, isolation, status drop, boredom Why does money only solve 2 of the 5 levels in Maslow’s hierarchy [25:01 – 38:00] Six Centers of Doubt: The Hidden Struggles Introducing the Exit Paradox Iceberg Self-image, Relationships, Work, Health, Prosperity, Significance “If you don’t know where you’re going, you won’t like where you end up.” 60% of founders’ core relationships disappear post-exit [38:01 – 48:15] From “What’s Next?” to N.E.X.T. Nourish, Evaluate, Xplore, Transcend: a framework for life after exit “Most are exiting from, not to. That’s why they regret it.” How Jerome helped his father find purpose again, becoming a mayor in his 60s [48:16 – End] Real Tools, Real People, Real Legacy The NEO Assessment: Six archetypes for post-exit personality “Ask your clients: What are you optimizing for, money or fulfillment?” Advisors: why you need to engage the personal side, or risk losing the AUM “The only way your life ever matters is if you are positively impacting other people's lives.” Key Quotes: “Money solves the first two levels of Maslow’s hierarchy. Everything after that - purpose, belonging, impact - needs something deeper.” – Jerome Myers “The biggest problem in exit planning is that most founders are exiting from instead of exiting to .” – Jerome Myers Ready for your next chapter? Start Your Assessment Now 👉 https://theexitparadox.com/assessment Leave a Review + Help Others Achieve a Great Legacy If you found this episode valuable, leave us a review and share it with someone who wants to expand their business growth. Your Next is more than a podcast—it’s a community that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and ages, united by a shared passion for personal growth and achieving excellence. 🎧 Explore our previous episodes or learn more about our mission at https://exittoexcellence.com . Your next chapter starts here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

1
No Regrets: Maximizing Wealth When Selling Your Business - Homer Smith 45:52

6 weeks ago45:52

45:52

What if your exit could be the beginning of your best story, not the end? In this deep-dive workshop-style episode, Jerome Myers reunites with Homer Smith, financial strategist and founder of Konvergent Wealth, to unpack the financial and emotional blueprint for achieving true post-exit success. Whether you’re years from selling your business or already navigating offers, this episode delivers the playbook for preserving family wealth and personal purpose. If you're a business owner asking, "What's next?" — this one's for you. [00:00 – 12:00] Two Paths After the Sale Why 70% of businesses brought to market don’t sell—and how to avoid being one of them The post-sale "tragedy" no one talks about “Only about 6% of owners who go to market are highly satisfied with the outcome.” The three pillars of a successful exit: business readiness, market readiness, and owner readiness [12:01 – 26:00] The Real Reasons Founders Miss Out Unrealistic valuations and the myths around multiples Why internal partner conflict can kill a deal The #1 financial red flag for buyers: messy books The hidden danger of high customer concentration [26:01 – 36:00] The Founder's Exit Paradox Jerome breaks down the emotional crash that hits post-sale Creating a personal life plan that aligns with the deal terms “Most founders are walking into a sea of nothingness.” How the N.E.X.T. framework (Nourish, Evaluate, eXplore, Transcend) builds clarity and confidence [36:01 – 45:00] Planning to Win (Not Just Exit) Real case study: $106M egg farm deal and $20M tax savings Why your transaction team might be too small—or too inexperienced Planning five years out: why it’s never too early to optimize [45:01 – End] Exit Into Excellence How post-exit optimization begins long before you close Jerome’s call to founders: “Don’t build a business without designing the life beyond it.” Resources to prepare: free whitepaper and transition readiness assessment Key Quotes: “The business, the market, and the owner all need to be ready.” - Homer Smith “Only about 6% of business owners who raise their hands to go to market are highly satisfied with the outcome.” - Homer Smith Connect with Homer! Website: http://www.konvergentwealth.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/homersmith4/ Ready for your next chapter? Start Your Assessment Now 👉 https://theexitparadox.com/assessment Leave a Review + Help Others Achieve a Great Legacy If you found this episode valuable, leave us a review and share it with someone who wants to expand their business growth. Your Next is more than a podcast—it’s a community that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and ages, united by a shared passion for personal growth and achieving excellence. 🎧 Explore our previous episodes or learn more about our mission at https://exittoexcellence.com . Your next chapter starts here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

1
Fail Forward: Failure is the Tuition We Pay - Kasim Aslam 54:25

7 weeks ago54:25

54:25

What if your biggest failures were the stepping stones to your greatest impact? In this raw and revealing episode, Jerome Myers sits down with Kasim Aslam, serial entrepreneur and founder of the world’s top-ranked Google Ads agency, to unpack his journey from troubled teen to 8-figure exit. With unmatched candor, Kasim shares the highs, the hard truths, and why his life’s mission today is centered on global employment, not just profit. If you’ve ever felt stuck, burned out, or unsure of what’s next, listen closely. [00:00 – 12:10] Two Exits, One Framework Building the #1 Google Ads agency Productizing services for scale The behind-the-scenes of an 8-figure exit [12:11 – 22:45] Integrity Over Everything Why most agencies fail their clients Saying no to the wrong deals How honesty fuels demand and client trust [22:46 – 34:00] The Rocky Road to Reinvention Growing up in poverty and crime Losing everything in the '08 crash Finding purpose through failure [34:01 – 45:00] Safe, But Not Satisfied What it felt like when the wire hit The paradox of post-exit emptiness Learning to delegate and let go [45:01 – End] Meaningful Work as Legacy Why hiring is the new impact model Creating global opportunity through EAs The case for failing forward Key Quotes: “You want to change lives? Hire someone.” — Kasim Aslam “Failure is the tuition that we pay. Chase good failure, quality failure, healthy failure.” — Kasim Aslam Connect with Kasim! LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kasimaslam YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kasimaslam Ready for your next chapter? Start Your Assessment Now 👉 https://theexitparadox.com/assessment Leave a Review + Help Others Achieve a Great Legacy If you found this episode valuable, leave us a review and share it with someone who wants to expand their business growth. Your Next is more than a podcast—it’s a community that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and ages, united by a shared passion for personal growth and achieving excellence. 🎧 Explore our previous episodes or learn more about our mission at https://exittoexcellence.com . Your next chapter starts here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

1
Exit Smarter, Sooner: The 3-Year Acceleration Strategy - Mahen Gundecha 40:21

8 weeks ago40:21

40:21

What if you could add $1M to your exit, without working extra years? Jerome Myers talks with Mahen Gundecha, a seasoned dealmaker, about how timing, positioning, and rolled equity can boost your exit value. Learn why most exits fail, what buyers want, and how to avoid costly delays. A must-listen for any founder thinking about an exit, now or years from now. [00:00 – 12:58] Mahen’s Global Journey + The Wake-Up Call for Founders From Tanzania to Toronto to Pennsylvania: Mahen’s backstory Why unplanned exits leave millions on the table The value of starting exit prep years before you're ready [12:59 – 24:32] What Makes a Business Truly Sellable Why only 20% of listed businesses ever sell Founder dependency: the hidden value killer How rolled equity can add major upside post-sale [24:33 – 36:25] Market Forces You Can’t Ignore: Consolidation + Competition What happens when your competitor is acquired by private equity Why does consolidation raise the risk of customer loss The importance of differentiation to stay competitive [36:26 – 48:07] When Growth Becomes a Gamble: Hope vs. Strategy Why acquisition strategies often fail without a solid plan How age affects your exit risk tolerance The danger of relying on “hope” as a growth strategy [48:08 – 1:07:47] A Smarter Path Forward: Preparation Without Pressure Why you should never negotiate with one buyer How deal fatigue kills value and momentum Tools and steps to start preparing for a clean, profitable exit Key Quotes: “Prepare your business before life forces your hand.”— Mahen Gundecha “Hope is what drives you, but you’ve got to have a plan.”— Mahen Gundecha Connect with Mahen! Email: mahen@bristol.group LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bristol-group/ Ready for your next chapter? Start Your Assessment Now 👉 https://theexitparadox.com/assessment Leave a Review + Help Others Achieve a Great Legacy If you found this episode valuable, leave us a review and share it with someone who wants to expand their business growth. Your Next is more than a podcast—it’s a community that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and ages, united by a shared passion for personal growth and achieving excellence. 🎧 Explore our previous episodes or learn more about our mission at https://exittoexcellence.com . Your next chapter starts here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

1
Be Sellable: How to Attract Your Ideal Buyer Before You’re Ready - Lorraine McGregor 45:59

9 weeks ago45:59

45:59

What if your business could attract the right buyer before you're even ready to sell? In this episode, exit strategist Lorraine McGregor reveals why only 1–2% of businesses ever sell and how to ensure yours is one of them. She breaks down the hidden reasons exits fail, the mindset shifts founders must make, and what buyers are looking for. If you think buyers will show up when you're ready, think again. This is a must-listen for any founder considering exit, even years in advance. [00:00 – 07:00] The Harsh Truth About Business Exits Why most small businesses never sell M&A myths: Buyers don’t show up when you’re ready, they buy when it suits them How Lorraine discovered the “black box” language of M&A [07:00 – 16:00] Why Buyers Walk Away Internal chaos kills deals: unresolved partner conflicts and weak management teams The real reason exit planners and M&A brokers won’t take you on as a client What does it mean to “become the business your buyer is looking for” [16:00 – 27:00] Understanding the Mind of the Buyer The four kinds of buyers, and how each one evaluates your business Why "earning your price" is better than demanding your price Funded searchers vs. zero-money-down acquirers: the opportunity and the risk [27:00 – 38:00] From Projections to Proof Why trailing financials alone aren't enough The myth of the magical pro forma: how real buyers view projections Creating certainty in your operations to justify a higher valuation [38:00 – 45:00] The Exit Starts with Mindset The biggest mistake: building a business with no clear end in mind How to build a company that outlasts you Why being "sellable" means building value for both you and the buyer Key Quotes: “Buyers don’t buy your past, they buy your future. And they need certainty about that future.” — Lorraine McGregor “Be sellable, all the time. That’s the best thing you can do for your legacy.” — Lorraine McGregor Connect with Lorraine! Website: https://www.spiritwest.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorrainemcgregor Ready for your next chapter? Start Your Assessment Now 👉 https://theexitparadox.com/assessment Leave a Review + Help Others Achieve a Great Legacy If you found this episode valuable, leave us a review and share it with someone who wants to expand their business growth. Your Next is more than a podcast—it’s a community that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and ages, united by a shared passion for personal growth and excellence. 🎧 Explore our previous episodes or learn more about our mission at https://exittoexcellence.com . Your next chapter starts here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

1
Regret Proof Your Business Part 2 - David Shavzin & Maria Forbes 27:20

10 weeks ago27:20

27:20

What if your team, not your revenue, is the key to a successful business exit? In Part 2 of the Regret-Proof series, Jerome Myers and Maria Forbes of Stratis Human Capital Solutions explore how people issues like misalignment, legacy hires, and founder-dependence quietly drain business value. Learn how to turn your workforce into your strongest asset, whether you’re years from selling or fielding offers now. [00:00 – 04:30] Why Human Capital Is the Missing Link in Exit Planning Human capital is a strategic value driver, not just HR Buyers assess workforce strength, leadership alignment, and role clarity Growth and exit readiness should be aligned and simultaneous [04:30 – 08:30] Alignment: The First People Challenge “Cloning yourself” limits innovation and scalability Misalignment hinders synergy, efficiency, and growth True alignment means matching instincts and strengths to roles [08:30 – 13:30] Hiring Habits: Staff vs. Stakeholders Staff support the owner's goals; stakeholders co-own company growth Stakeholder teams drive autonomy, performance, and purpose Hiring habits must evolve to boost retention and enterprise value [13:30 – 18:00] Growth Bottlenecks: Managing Alone Won’t Scale Top-down leadership reduces agility and resilience Distributed leadership unlocks execution and team potential Role mapping supports clarity, development, and onboarding [18:00 – 26:00] Regret-Proofing Through People Strategy Outdated systems and poor onboarding weaken enterprise value A healthy, independent, connected workforce attracts buyers Start early to ensure your exit results in pride, not regret Key Quotes: “Alignment is a value driver. When you’re in good alignment, a potential buyer can see that.” — Maria Forbes “If you’re calling them staff, then they are your supporters. If you’re calling them your team, then they’re stakeholders in the growth of your company.”— Maria Forbes 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? Start Your Assessment Now 👉 https://theexitparadox.com/assessment Leave a Review + Help Others Achieve a Great Legacy If you found this episode valuable, leave us a review and share it with someone who wants to expand their business growth. Your Next is more than a podcast—it’s a community that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and ages, united by a shared passion for personal growth and achieving excellence. 🎧 Explore our previous episodes or learn more about our mission at https://exittoexcellence.com. Your next chapter starts here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

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Regret Proof Your Business Part 1 - David Shavzin & Maria Forbes 34:28

11 weeks ago34:28

34:28

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? Start Your Assessment Now 👉 https://theexitparadox.com/assessment Leave a Review + Help Others Achieve a Great Legacy If you found this episode valuable, leave us a review and share it with someone who wants to expand their business growth. Your Next is more than a podcast—it’s a community that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and ages, united by a shared passion for personal growth and achieving excellence. 🎧 Explore our previous episodes or learn more about our mission at https://exittoexcellence.com . Your next chapter starts here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

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Beyond Willpower: Designing Effective Forcing Mechanisms for Success - Matthew Jarvis 51:11

12 weeks ago51:11

51:11

What does it look like to engineer a business that serves your life—and not the other way around? Matthew Jarvis, founder of Jarvis Financial and co-founder of The Perfect RIA, built a thriving financial advisory firm designed for freedom. In this episode, Matthew opens up about building a “lifestyle practice,” navigating the emotional landmines of succession, and making bold moves (like taking 150+ days off a year!) without sacrificing business performance. Expect honest stories about designing a business around your values, preparing for exit from day one, and why impact, not just income, should be the endgame. If you're looking to exit right, not just exit rich, this episode will shift your thinking. [01:13 – 08:12] Design Your Life First Life by Design: Matthew shares how he built a business to support his ideal lifestyle Lifestyle Practice: Intentional client selection and lean operations Personal Metrics: Why time off mattered more than AUM growth Early Vision: Planning for exit even in the early years of growth [08:12 – 18:49] Exiting on Purpose Succession Strategy: Hand-picking his successor with the intention Founder Ego: Wrestling with identity and letting go of being “the guy” Trust and Letting Go: Setting the team up for success post-transition The Real Timeline: Why a clean break was the healthiest move [18:49 – 29:06] Impact Over Income Beyond the Check: How purpose played into exit planning The Perfect RIA: Building a second business to help others escape the grind Systems + Values: Operational freedom with a high-integrity culture Mission Alignment: The joy of helping others build lifestyle practices [29:06 – 38:55] Life After Exit Rhythms Post-Exit: How Matthew structures his time now Avoiding the Void: Creating new challenges to stay engaged Family + Freedom: Prioritizing relationships and global experiences Reinvention: The exit isn’t the end, it’s the beginning of significance [38:55 – 46:00] Advice for Founders Start With Why: Design your business with your life in mind Get a Coach: The power of external insight Exit Readiness: Don’t wait until burnout to start the process Leave a Legacy: Measure success by your impact, not just your income Key Quotes: “If willpower were enough, we wouldn't have this discussion. I need a forcing mechanism.”— Matthew Jarvis “Successful people do things again and again. If I do those things, I’ll probably get similar results.”— Matthew Jarvis Connect with Matthew! Website: https://www.theperfectria.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpjarvis/ Ready for your next chapter? Start Your Assessment Now 👉 https://theexitparadox.com/assessment Leave a Review + Help Others Achieve a Great Legacy If you found this episode valuable, leave us a review and share it with someone who wants to expand their business growth. Your Next is more than a podcast—it’s a community that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and ages, united by a shared passion for personal growth and achieving excellence. 🎧 Explore our previous episodes or learn more about our mission at https://exittoexcellence.com . Your next chapter starts here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

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Paychecks to Purpose: The 8 Exits of a Founder - Jerome Myers 1:00:43

13 weeks ago1:00:43

1:00:43

Most people think money is the biggest barrier to leaving their job—but they’re wrong. In this powerful mastermind session, Jerome Myers joins real estate investors and corporate pros to reveal the real cost of walking away: emotional, mental, and operational. Drawing from his leap from corporate at the peak of success, Jerome shares hard-earned lessons on why most exits fail, the myths of passive income, and what truly makes wealth worth building. If you're dreaming of leaving your W2 or already have, this conversation will shake your assumptions and refocus your purpose. Press play and discover what it takes to build a life of freedom and fulfillment. [00:00 – 04:57] Real People at the Edge of a Leap Investor intros: career paths and exit goals Common thread: W2 jobs and uncertainty Jerome sets the tone for real talk [04:58 – 11:45] Jerome’s Exit Story Built a $20M division—then told to downsize Choose values over comfort and quit Faced with cash flow struggles with no plan [11:46 – 20:59] Freedom Numbers & False Starts Most don’t know their real “freedom number.” Passive income takes time and capital Going from six figures to zero is a real risk Know what life—not lifestyle—costs [21:00 – 34:15] Chief Everything Officer Startup life is messy, lonely, and intense You’ll do everything—from admin to investor calls Visibility is leverage, not vanity Faceless brands fail in today’s market [34:16 – 48:15] Purpose Over Passive Real estate cash flow isn’t instant Wealth comes from exits and expertise Consulting often beats syndication Purpose fuels fulfillment; money alone doesn’t [48:16 – 59:00] Doubt, Purpose & the Real Work Doubt lingers, even with a plan Mission matters more than ego Money without purpose leads nowhere We exit to do our real work Key Quotes: “The biggest mistake I made in my transition from an employee to a founder was trying to build a faceless brand.” - Jerome Myers “The only way your life ever matters is if you are positively impacting the lives of other people.” - Jerome Myers Ready for your next chapter? Start Your Assessment Now 👉 https://theexitparadox.com/assessment Leave a Review + Help Others Achieve a Great Legacy If you found this episode valuable, leave us a review and share it with someone who wants to expand their business growth. Your Next is more than a podcast—it’s a community that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and ages, united by a shared passion for personal growth and achieving excellence. 🎧 Explore our previous episodes or learn more about our mission at https://exittoexcellence.com . Your next chapter starts here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

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Letting Go on Purpose: A Founder’s Guide to Exiting Right with Julie Cole 43:51

14 weeks ago43:51