Poised for Exit

Hosted by Julie Keyes

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Episodes

300

Latest episode

Jun 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

Welcome to the Poised for Exit podcast! Poised for Exit is an under 30-minute strategic planning guidance podcast for busy small business owners. Each week you’ll hear certified exit planning advisor, Julie Keyes, talk with a range of entrepreneurs and professionals about preparing your business for a future transition. Guests at every stage of company ownership will share their personal stories and lessons learned about topics such as the anatomy of the exit planning process, developing a growth strategy, how to sell on your terms, exit planning for women small business owners, handling business diversity, and how to sell a family business. Whether you’re planning an exit in the near future or not, this show will provide you with the same action-oriented content that Julie utilizes while consulting with Keyestrategies clients. Building an exit strategy can be overwhelming, especially with all the decisions and details you have to consider. “Poised for Exit” will simplify the process and help you unwrap the unknowns, giving you more confidence in your planning process. Previous episodes are available for download, so if you are new to our show, you can listen to them in any order that suits you. Join us each week for timely, relevant content that will surely impact your business exit outcome! Subscribe to our newsletter below to receive your weekly episode link and stay updated on new strategic planning content. Find “Poised for Exit” on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Play, iHeart Radio, Amazon Music, and others. Thank you to our Sponsors: Sunbelt Business Advisers and JAK CPA's. A special note of thanks to Tyler Keyes who produced the music for the “Poised for Exit” show.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

June 11, 2026Episode 30125 min

What Private Equity Buyers Really Want From Sellers

In this episode of Poised for Exit, Brian Cox, Partner at Traction Capital, joins the show to discuss what private equity buyers are really looking for when evaluating founder-led businesses. Drawing from his experience as both an entrepreneur and investor, Brian shares practical insights into how business owners can better position themselves for a successful exit.The conversation explores the factors that influence buyer confidence and valuation, including clean financials, succession planning, operational readiness, and the importance of having a clear growth strategy. Brian also explains common deal structures, such as rollover equity, seller involvement after closing, and earn-outs, and why flexibility and alignment are essential to creating successful outcomes for both buyers and sellers.The discussion also touches on the growing role of AI within portfolio companies, the benefits of working with experienced advisors throughout the transaction process, and why owners who begin planning early are often best positioned to maximize value and achieve the exit they envision.Connect with Brian Cox hereConnect with Traction Capital hereConnect with Julie Keyes, Keyestrategies LLCFounder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor

June 4, 2026Episode 30031 min

What Every Owner Should Know About the Legal Side of Exit Planning

In this milestone 300th episode of Poised for Exit, we celebrate six years of conversations with business owners, advisors, and industry experts. Since launching in 2020, the podcast has grown from a local audience to listeners around the world!In this episode, we sit down with Janice Miller, Managing Partner of Miller Haga Law Group and author of Coopertition.Janice joins the show to discuss the legal side of exit planning and why preparation years in advance can have a significant impact on the outcome of a business transition. The conversation covers due diligence readiness, succession planning, family business dynamics, and the legal and strategic decisions that can influence business value, buyer confidence, and transaction success.Janice also shares practical advice for business owners looking to reduce risk, strengthen their businesses, and better prepare for future transitions.As we celebrate 300 episodes of Poised for Exit, this conversation serves as a reminder that meaningful outcomes, whether in business, transitions, or life, are often the result of thoughtful planning long before the moment arrives. Connect with Janice Miller here Learn more about Coopertition here Learn more about Miller Haga Law Group hereConnect with Julie Keyes, Keyestrategies LLCFounder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor

May 28, 2026Episode 29929 min

Why Commercial Real Estate Can Make or Break an Exit Plan

In this episode of Poised for Exit, Anna Coskran, President of NTH, Inc. joins the show to discuss why commercial real estate can play a major role in business transitions and exit planning. Drawing from nearly three decades of experience in commercial real estate and construction management, Anna shares practical insight into how real estate decisions can either support or complicate a successful transition.The conversation explores how leases, building ownership, and property-related obligations can impact business value, flexibility, timing, and buyer appeal. Topics include landlord approval rights, personal guarantees, long-term lease commitments, deferred maintenance, and how overlooked real estate details can create unexpected challenges during a sale or succession process.The episode also covers the differences between leasing and owning during a transition, including sale-leaseback structures, succession planning considerations, and how real estate strategy can affect valuation. Anna shares real-world examples of business owners navigating lease renewals, ownership transitions, and changing market conditions, along with the importance of having the right advisory team in place early.The discussion also touches on today’s commercial real estate market, changing workplace expectations, the importance of flexibility, and why business owners should view real estate as a strategic business tool rather than simply a financial asset.Connect with Anna Coskran hereConnect with NTH, Inc. hereConnect with Julie Keyes, Keyestrategies LLCFounder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor

May 21, 2026Episode 29826 min

R&D Tax Credits Explained: What Business Owners Commonly Miss

In this episode of Poised for Exit, John Ammannand Tim Urban, CPAs with John A. Knutson & Co., join the show to explain how R&D tax credits work and why many business owners may qualify without realizing it. They discuss the fundamentals of the federal R&D tax credit, including the types of activities that may qualify and why these credits are not limited to large corporations or technology companies.John and Tim also break down common misconceptions around R&D credits, including the idea that innovation must be new to the world rather than simply new to the company itself. The conversation covers the IRS four-part qualification test, the importance of documentation, why failed projects can still qualify, and how startups may be able to apply credits against payroll taxes.The episode also explores AI-related investments, startup applications, and common concerns surrounding third-party R&D credit firms. John and Tim explain what business owners should understand before pursuing a claim and offer practical insight into how companies can better evaluate potential opportunities and requirements surrounding R&D tax credits.Connect with John Ammann hereConnect with Tim Urban hereLearn More about John A. Knutson & Co.hereConnect with Julie Keyes, Keyestrategies LLCFounder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor

May 13, 2026Episode 29726 min

Beyond the Hype: How Private Companies Should Actually Approach AI Adoption

In this episode of Poised for Exit, Mariano Jurich, Senior Product Leader at Making Sense, returns to the show to share insights on how private companies are navigating the rapid evolution of AI and enterprise technology. With deep experience across product strategy, software development, and business transformation, Mariano offers a practical perspective on what’s changing and what actually matters.Mariano discusses how companies are approaching AI adoption today, highlighting the importance of aligning new technologies with business goals rather than chasing trends. He explains why AI is simply a tool, not a strategy, and why many organizations struggle with implementation due to lack of clarity, adoption, and unrealistic expectations.The conversation also explores how private equity-backed and middle market companies are shifting toward smaller, high-ROI use cases rather than large-scale transformations. Mariano shares how decision-making has evolved, why speed alone is no longer a competitive advantage, and why human-led strategy and thoughtful implementation remain critical for driving meaningful outcomes in a rapidly changing landscape.Connect with Mariano Jurich hereLearn more about Making Sense LLC hereConnect with Julie Keyes, Keyestrategies LLCFounder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor

May 7, 2026Episode 29627 min

AI, Hiring & Business Value: What Mid-Market Companies Are Getting Wrong

In this episode of Poised for Exit, Hilary Spreizer, Owner and CEO of The Latitude Group, shares her unexpected journey from employee to owner after purchasing the company during the uncertainty of COVID. She discusses the challenges of transitioning from leading sales and revenue generation to building the operational structure needed to scale a growing business.Hilary explains how strategic hires, stronger systems, and a focus on scalable infrastructure helped the company achieve significant growth and earn a Fast 50 award. She also shares lessons on leadership, surrounding yourself with people who know what you don’t, and implementing frameworks like EOS to create accountability and long-term organizational stability.The conversation also explores how mid-market companies are approaching AI, hiring, and technology adoption. Hilary discusses why many businesses rush into AI tools without a clear strategy, the operational and privacy risks that can create, and why companies should focus first on identifying the business problem before investing in technology solutions.The episode highlights the connection between operational scalability and enterprise value, particularly for owners preparing for future growth or exit planning. Hilary shares why reducing founder dependency, building resilient teams, and slowing down long enough to create the right blueprint can dramatically improve long-term outcomes.Connect with Hillary Spreizer hereLearn more about The Latitude Group here Connect with Julie Keyes, Keyestrategies LLCFounder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor

April 30, 2026Episode 29525 min

A Real Exit Story: How Preparation and the Right Advisory Team Drove a Premium Outcome

In this episode of Poised for Exit, Shaun Jackson, business broker with Calhoun Companies, steps in as guest host to interview his client, Dale Doriott, former owner of Injection Molding Solutions. Together, they walk through Dale’s real exit story and the key factors that led to a premium outcome.Dale shares how he built the business over decades, including navigating the 2008 financial crisis and growing through disciplined operations and reinvestment. He explains how a focus on clarity, organization, and strong leadership positioned the company to stand out to buyers and ultimately command a higher valuation.The conversation highlights the role of preparation and the impact of having the right advisory team in place. Sean and Dale discuss how alignment between the broker, accountant, and attorney strengthened their position during negotiations, even when working with a large, private equity-backed buyer. They also share how clear communication and trust helped guide key decisions throughout the process.Dale shares key lessons from the process, including understanding financial metrics earlier and how deal structure decisions like retaining real estate created long term value. He also discusses the benefits of staying on post sale for continuity and success.This episode offers business owners and advisors a grounded, real-world look at how preparation, leadership, and the right advisory team can drive stronger exit outcomes and lasting value beyond the transaction.Connect with Shaun Jackson hereLearn more about Calhoun Companies hereConnect with Dale Doriott hereLearn more about Injection Molding Solutions hereConnect with Julie Keyes, Keyestrategies LLCFounder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor

April 22, 2026Episode 29427 min

How Business Owners Can Build Philanthropy Into an Exit Plan

In this episode of Poised for Exit, Jennifer Vickerman Akaolisa, Gift Planner at Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation, joins us to discuss how philanthropy can become a powerful part of business exit planning. With a background in financial services and more than a decade of experience in philanthropy, Jennifer helps individuals, families, and business owners create giving strategies that align with their values and long-term goals.Jennifer shares why entrepreneurs are often among the most generous givers and how many owners want their life’s work to continue making a difference after a sale or transition. She explains why these conversations should begin early and how thoughtful planning can create both personal fulfillment and lasting community impact.The conversation also explores strategies such as donor-advised funds, gifting non-cash assets, and other planning tools that can help owners maximize flexibility and impact. Julie and Jennifer also preview their upcoming webinar focused on advising at the intersection of business exit planning, legacy building, and community impact.This episode offers business owners and advisors a practical look at how philanthropy can strengthen exit planning while creating lasting value beyond the transaction.Connect with Jennifer Vickerman Akaolisa hereLearn more about Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation hereRegister for the upcoming webinar here Connect with Julie Keyes, Keyestrategies LLCFounder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor

April 16, 2026Episode 29323 min

Exit Planning Starts Day One: How to Build a Business That Can Actually Sell

In this episode of Poised for Exit, Stacey Bartelson, Financial Advisor at Edward Jones, discusses why business owners should start planning their exit from day one. She shares how many owners focus on growth but overlook the long-term strategy needed to successfully transition or sell their business.Stacey explains that enterprise value goes far beyond financials, highlighting the importance of building a strong team, creating systems, and ensuring the business can operate without the owner. She also discusses why a significant percentage of businesses never sell and how a lack of early planning can limit options and reduce overall value.This conversation explores the shift from working in the business to working on the business, along with the importance of continuity, succession planning, and aligning personal and financial goals with long-term exit outcomes. This episode highlights how strategy, structure, and long-term thinking all play a role in whether a business is actually prepared for a successful exit. Connect with Stacey Bartelson hereLearn more about the Bartelson Blesener Wealth Group at Edward Jones hereLearn more about the Owners Edge Summit hereConnect with Julie Keyes, Keyestrategies LLCFounder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor

April 9, 2026Episode 29228 min

Employee Ownership as a Business Exit Option

In this episode of Poised for Exit, Steve Storkan, Executive Director at The Employee Ownership Expansion Network, discusses how employee ownership is gaining traction as a business exit strategy. He shares the growth of employee ownership across the U.S. and explains why more business owners are considering it as part of their transition planning.Steve breaks down how increased awareness, new sources of capital, and impact investing are making employee ownership more accessible. He also highlights research showing the significant wealth created for employees through these models, along with the flexibility and legacy benefits for business owners.This conversation explores the different forms of employee ownership, including ESOPs, and what makes a company a good fit. Steve also emphasizes the importance of having the right advisors and ensuring strong financial feasibility when considering this path.This episode offers a practical look at how employee ownership can support both successful exits and long-term business continuity. Connect with Steve Storkan hereLearn more about The Employee Ownership Expansion Network hereConnect with Julie Keyes, Keyestrategies LLCFounder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor