The Exit Plan is for business owners that are interested in learning more about how to sell their business. Each episode Barnaby Cook interviews someone who has bought or sold a business - either a creative agency, or a production company. The conversation gets under the skin of why they wanted to sell, or were looking to acquire, how the deal was structured, how they agreed upon a valuation and what lessons they learnt along the way.
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Data Gurus Podcast | Insights on Business Strategy, Mergers and Acquisitions, Market Research & Data Collection
Sima Vasa
Welcome to the the Data Gurus Podcast! The world around us is changing faster than ever before. From automation, artificial intelligence, big data, geo-location to every aspect of how we work and live. This includes DATA. Welcome to Data Gurus Podcast… our mission is to bring you a real life perspective on what’s happening in the data industry and how successful companies and individuals in this niche navigate through the sea of change. Encouraging you to Be Bold, Be Brave and Be Fearless – ...
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Get the insiders’ take on mergers and acquisitions. M&A investment bankers Gina Cocking and Jeff Guylay of Colonnade Advisors discuss the technical aspects of and tactics used in middle market deals. This podcast offers actionable advice and strategies for selling your company and is aimed at owners of middle market companies in the financial services and business services sectors. Middle market companies are generally valued between $20 million and $500 million.
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Exit With Style, Grace, and More Money with John Martinka
23:08
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23:08
In this conversation, John Martinka discusses his journey into the M&A world, the importance of preparation for business owners looking to sell, and the emotional aspects of the selling process. He shares insights from his recent book, 'Exit with Style, Grace, and More Money,' and emphasizes the need for business owners to be ready both financially…
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Consumer Paradoxes and Market Shifts with J. Walker Smith of Kantar
27:32
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27:32
On this episode, host Sima Vasa talks with J. Walker Smith, Knowledge Lead at Kantar. They discuss shifting consumer sentiments, the paradox of strong spending amid uncertainty and changes in market insights. Key Takeaways: (02:14) Experience in trends and futures at Kantar aids in predicting consumer values. (04:37) Consumer spending is strong, bu…
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DBLX Joins Auspicious Group - Nicky Hoyland's Story
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32:22
In this conversation, Nicky Hoyland, Chief Innovation Officer at Auspicious, shares her journey from a film and media graduate to a leader in learning technology and business innovation. She discusses her experiences in building DBLX, the challenges of transitioning from bespoke development to a SaaS platform, and the importance of collaboration an…
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The Power of Public Opinion Data with Darrell Bricker of Ipsos
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15:40
On this episode, host Sima Vasa speaks with Darrell Bricker, Chief Executive Officer, Public Affairs at Ipsos. They discuss the evolving landscape of public opinion research, the role of emotional connection in politics, and the shifting global demographics shaping our future. Key Takeaways: (02:30) Mentorship and opportunity shape a meaningful car…
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Merging, Buying & Selling An Agency : The 3Pipe Journey with Jim Hawker
38:22
38:22
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38:22
Summary Jim Hawker, co-founder of 3Pipe, shares his journey of starting and growing the agency over 20 years, including the challenges of mergers, acquisitions, and financial turmoil. He reflects on the evolution of marketing, the importance of strategic growth, and the lessons learned from navigating a significant financial crisis. The conversatio…
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Lessons From 10 Years of Innovation with Michael Winnick of dscout
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26:38
On this episode, host Sima Vasa welcomes Michael Winnick, Founder and CEO of dscout. They discuss his journey in the worlds of product, design and technology. Michael shares insights on how patience and persistence shaped his entrepreneurial journey and how dscout helps companies conduct innovative, real-time research. Key Takeaways: (02:45) Michae…
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The Impact of the October Budget on the M&A Market with Saul Cohen
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40:40
Summary In this conversation, Saul Cohen, owner of Expert Eye, shares his journey from working in corporate finance to supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). He discusses the importance of providing tailored financial advice to entrepreneurs, the impact of personal experiences on his career choices, and the challenges faced by busine…
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I Sold My Small Agency – And It Put Me In a Wheelchair with Holly Tennock
50:58
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50:58
In this conversation, Holly Tennock shares her journey from being a journalist to founding her own PR agency, Journalista, and the challenges she faced as a female entrepreneur. She discusses the growth of her agency, the complexities of navigating leadership, and the eventual sale of her business. Holly reflects on her experiences during the trans…
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The Role of Emotion in Marketing with Matt Celuszak of Element Human
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35:03
On this episode, host Sima Vasa talks to Matt Celuszak, Co-Founder and CEO of Element Human, about the intersection of AI and human behavior. Together they explore how data can drive better brand engagement. Matt shares his insights on understanding human emotions and reactions, focusing on attention data and using behavioral understanding to creat…
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On Entrepreneurship and Growth - How Ben Fitter-Harding sold his business, Cardboard Fish
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28:28
In this conversation, Ben Fitter-Harding shares his entrepreneurial journey, detailing the inception and growth of his first business, Cardboard Fish, a communications technology company. He discusses the challenges and successes of navigating the acquisition process, the emotional impact of selling a business, and the transition to his new venture…
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Creating Impactful Narratives From Data with Tim Hoskins and Brett Townsend of Quester
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15:10
On this episode, host Sima Vasa talks to Tim Hoskins, President of Quester, and Brett Townsend, Senior Vice President of Strategy at Quester, about the future of insights and how to drive meaningful change in the industry. Brett and Tim share revelations from their book, “Insights on the Brink,” and discuss how empathy, emotion and storytelling pla…
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Auspicious Group Acquires Greg Moyer's Blue Chalk - A Very Personal Story
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40:53
In this conversation, Greg Moyer, CEO of Blue Chalk Media, shares his extensive career journey in the media industry, from his early days in journalism to his pivotal role in launching the Discovery Channel. He discusses the founding of Blue Chalk Media, emphasizing the creative freedom it provided him and the challenges of running a media company.…
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How SAP’s Data-Driven Approach Fuels Customer Experience Innovation with Kai Stübane
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20:15
On this episode, host Sima Vasa talks to Kai Stübane, Solution Chief Revenue Officer for SAP CX for Middle and Eastern Europe, about the evolving role of customer experience (CX) in driving business success. Key Takeaways: (00:06) Kai’s journey from PwC to SAP. (01:21) CX covers all customer touchpoints. (03:33) SAP uses data to improve CX. (05:48)…
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Quality of Earnings: What You Need to Know with John Hannum
32:50
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32:50
In this conversation, John Hannum, founder of PPS Solutions, discusses his journey in finance, the importance of CFO services for small businesses, and the intricacies of SBA loans. He explains the quality of earnings process, the differences between asset and share purchases, and shares insights on the buy-side perspective in M&A transactions. Joh…
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Buying 'Ugly' Businesses with Lee Bushell
38:56
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38:56
In this conversation, Lee Bushell shares his extensive entrepreneurial journey, starting from his early ventures in selling clothing at school to his experiences in the nightclub industry and transitioning into law. He discusses his approach to mergers and acquisitions, the strategy behind his investment group, and the importance of focusing on cas…
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Scaling Digital Qual with Eugene Murphy of Indeemo
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On this episode, host Sima Vasa talks to Eugene Murphy, Founder and CEO of Indeemo, who shares insights on how Indeemo is revolutionizing digital ethnography and qualitative research through innovative video solutions. Key Takeaways: (00:06) Eugene’s journey from engineering to founding Indeemo. (02:03) Creating a seamless user experience for all a…
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The Silver Tsunami: Myth or Reality? with Mike Finger
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Mike Finger, a small business owner and expert in the transaction space, shares his insights on selling small businesses. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the basics of selling a business and dispels common misconceptions. Mike discusses the challenges faced by business owners in valuing and selling their businesses, including inflated…
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Strategic Leadership in Action with Vittorio Raimondi of Foresight Strategy
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11:25
On this episode, host Sima Vasa talks with Vittorio Raimondi, CEO and Founder/Managing Partner of Foresight Strategy, about the intricacies of leadership, data analytics and the power of creativity and curiosity in driving business success. Key Takeaways: (04:30) Using system dynamics to effectively model complex business environments. (06:45) Mapp…
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Integration and Growth: Combining the Strengths of Two Agencies With Richard Simpson from Tayburn
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32:54
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32:54
Richard Simpson talks about his role in sales and how it helped him access opportunities. He discusses the history and specialisations of Tayburn, the design agency he joined in 2008. Richard also explains how he acquired equity in the business and how his role evolved over time. He then delves into the process of the acquisition by Lewis, includin…
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Embracing Digital Transformation with Priscilla McKinney of Little Bird Marketing
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24:07
On this episode, host Sima Vasa is joined by Priscilla McKinney, CEO and Founder of Little Bird Marketing, to discuss the evolving landscape of market research, the importance of digital transformation and the value of strong client relationships. Key Takeaways: (03:10) Pivoting to new verticals drives success. (03:28) Deepening relationships with …
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The EMI Scheme: Incentivising Long-Serving Employees
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32:07
Nick Morgan, Group CEO of We Group, shares his experience with building and exiting multiple businesses. He discusses his background and the different agencies he has been involved with, including bars, pubs, and a distressed agency. Nick also talks about the three agencies within We Group: an independent events company specialising in festival pro…
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Taylor Christoffel: From Employee to CEO of Uncubed
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Taylor Christoffel, CEO of Uncubed, shares the story of the company's evolution from HR software to employer branding production. He joined Uncubed in 2016 and eventually acquired the company in 2024. Taylor discusses the value of the company's legacy and the passion he brings to the business. He highlights the expansion of Uncubed Studios into the…
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The Future of Data Analytics and Fraud Detection with Andrew Moffatt of Qrious Insight
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20:04
On this episode, host Sima Vasa welcomes Andrew Moffatt, CEO and Co-Founder of Qrious Insight, to explore the evolution of data analytics, the impact of AI and the future of market research. Andrew discusses how the integration of behavioral data with advanced analytics is transforming the way businesses understand and engage with their audiences. …
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Preparing Your Business For A Successful Sale with Cindy Anderson
37:39
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37:39
Cindy Anderson, a certified public accountant and M&A consultant, shares insights on preparing a business for sale and navigating the M&A process. She emphasizes the importance of clean financial records and understanding the buyer's perspective. Anderson recommends working with advisors and creating a clear integration plan to ensure a smooth tran…
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The Timing and Considerations of Selling a Business with Nicholas Spezio
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32:07
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32:07
Nicholas Spezio, Director of Transaction Services at Expo Group, discusses the world of private equity and venture capital. Private equity firms invest capital into mature businesses with long-term growth potential, often seeking a controlling stake. Venture capital firms, on the other hand, invest in early-stage companies in exchange for equity. S…
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Leveraging Data for Competitive Advantage in Advertising with Comscore’s Steve Bagdasarian
21:26
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21:26
On this episode, host Sima Vasa talks to Steve Bagdasarian, Chief Commercial Officer of Comscore, Inc., to explore the evolution of ad measurement and the convergence of traditional and digital media.Key Takeaways:(02:00) Measurement data offers competitive advantages.(02:05) Media strategy is now driven by actionable data.(04:00) The importance of…
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A Unique Way To Sell A Company To It's Employees
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43:21
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43:21
Tulips & Company, a corporate film agency, was founded in 2002 by Laure Cousin and Charles Drouin. They started the business in the attic of Laure's house with a focus on creative storytelling. Over the years, they grew the company and gained recognition through awards. In 2018, they decided to sell the company to its employees in a unique way. The…
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Empowering Women In Business: Jacqueline O'Donovan's Story
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47:21
Jacqueline O'Donovan OBE shares her journey of owning and growing a waste management business, O'Donovan Waste Disposal, after her father's passing. She discusses the challenges of taking over the business at a young age and the close-knit dynamic of working with her siblings. Jacqueline highlights the importance of a strong work ethic and cohesion…
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Using Personal Branding To Attract Potential Buyers
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39:57
Loreta Tarozaite is a marketing communications consultant and executive coach with a background in news anchoring. She helps business owners and executives improve their on-camera and on-stage presence, particularly in using video as a medium. Loreta emphasizes the importance of personal branding, especially on platforms like LinkedIn, and encourag…
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A Merger, Then An Acquisition: Mike Silver's Story of Scaling And Selling His Experiential Marketing Agency
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34:51
Mike Silver, the founder of an experiential agency called Stretch, shares his journey of setting up an experiential marketing agency called Stretch in Cape Town, South Africa. We talk about its growth, a merger with another agency in Johannesburg and it’s eventual sale to a WPP affiliate. He discusses the challenges, learnings, and post-sale experi…
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Revolutionizing Market Research Using Creativity and Human-Centric Insights with Holland Martini of GOODQUES
On this episode, host Sima Vasa welcomes Holland Martini, Chief Insights Officer of GOODQUES, who shares her journey and insights on revolutionizing market research through creativity and human-centric methods.Key Takeaways:(00:00) Holland emphasizes the importance of being comfortable with discomfort. (03:31) The role of data at GOODQUES is not ju…
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How Tim Drake Sold His Mobile-First Agency For £20 Million
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32:56
Tim Drake, a semi-retired agency owner, shares his journey of building and selling his agency for £20 million. He discusses the various pivots his agency went through, from graphic design to websites to mobile-first business. Tim emphasizes the importance of finding the right business partner and maintaining a ruthless focus on building and selling…
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Buying A Video Production Company Out Of Liquidation: George Hughes' Story
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42:10
George Hughes, founder of Small Films, shares his experience of starting and acquiring businesses in the video production industry. He discusses the challenges of transitioning from working in the television industry to running his own company and the importance of understanding the objectives of clients. Hughes also talks about how he acquired Mai…
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Selling A Design Agency To An Investment Group: The Story Of The Yard Creative
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31:23
Steve James Royal, co-founder of The Yard Creative, shares his journey of building and selling a design agency. The Yard Creative is an evidential design agency that focuses on bringing scientific thinking and research into the design process. Steve discusses the challenges and successes of implementing evidential design, including a case study wit…
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Leading New Frontiers in Consumer Behavior and Data Science with Alex Hunt of Behaviorally
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22:18
On this episode, host Sima Vasa talks to Alex Hunt, CEO of Behaviorally, about the transformative role of technology in the market research industry and how Behaviorally leverages AI and digital tools to innovate data insights.Key Takeaways:(00:54) Technology’s inevitable impact on industries.(03:16) Alex’s shift to pioneering behavioral sciences.(…
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What Makes a Business Attractive to Acquirers with Arthur Petropoulos of Hillview Partners
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40:39
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40:39
Arthur Petropoulos, the managing partner at Hillview Partners, discusses his work in mergers and acquisitions and capital advisory for middle market companies. He shares how he got into this line of work and the process of setting up and growing his own firm. Petropoulos explains the importance of building infrastructure and processes in businesses…
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From Freelancing To A Team Of 35. Alex Price's Story Of Growing And Selling His Agency
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33:53
Alex Price, founder of 93 Digital, shares his journey of building and selling his digital agency. He started freelancing in web design at a young age and eventually grew his agency to a team of 35. The agency focused on WordPress and B2B tech clients, and later expanded into digital marketing services. Alex decided to sell the agency when it was in…
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