The Exit Planning Exchange Atlanta Archives

The Transformative Impact of AI on Business Exit Planning, with Gerardo Kerik

March 18, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

The Transformative Impact of AI on Business Exit Planning, with Gerardo Kerik

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The Transformative Impact of AI on Business Exit Planning, with Gerardo Kerik (The Exit Exchange, Episode 22)

In this episode of The Exit Exchange, host John Ray dives into the business implications of artificial intelligence with Gerardo Kerik, a WSI consultant. Gerardo discusses the evolving landscape of AI and its significant impact on advisors and companies in the exit process. He highlights how AI tools have transitioned from requiring immense computing power and data sets to becoming accessible via natural language processing since the advent of large language models in 2017.

This shift, exemplified by the rapid adoption of OpenAI’s ChatGPT, has opened new opportunities for businesses to streamline processes, enhance decision-making, and boost efficiency. Gerardo also addresses common challenges in AI adoption, such as unrealistic expectations, inadequate data, and the necessity of training, while emphasizing the importance of implementing AI policies to protect client confidentiality.

The conversation further explores practical use cases like automated meeting transcription and document generation, underscoring how AI can drastically reduce time spent on routine tasks. Gerardo predicts that the future of AI includes even more advanced solutions like agentic AI, which can autonomously manage tasks and revolutionize business operations. For advisors looking to stay ahead, this episode provides crucial insights into leveraging AI effectively and ethically.

The free e-book Gerardo mentioned in the interview, Unlocking the Potential of ChatGPT & AI: A Guide to Embracing AI in Your Business and Life, can be downloaded here.

The host of The Exit Exchange is John Ray, and the show is produced by John Ray and North Fulton Business Radio, LLC, the North Fulton affiliate of Business RadioX®. John Ray is a Gold Sponsor of XPX Atlanta.

Gerardo Kerik

Gerardo Kerik is a renowned digital marketing strategist and AI consultant with over 20 years of experience working with global brands and mid-market companies. As the Principal Strategist at WSI, the world’s largest digital marketing network, Kerik specializes in leveraging AI-powered solutions to help businesses grow, improve efficiency, and increase revenue. He has developed AI tools that have boosted lead conversion rates by 40% and has played a key role in scaling eCommerce platforms, contributing to significant revenue increases.

Kerik’s expertise in AI integration is highlighted by his work in optimizing business operations, improving profitability, and driving efficiency. He serves as a Fractional CMO and strategic advisor, guiding companies through the evolving digital landscape toward long-term success. His work with private equity firms and their portfolio companies focuses on using AI and data-driven strategies to accelerate growth. Kerik’s podcast, “Embracing Change,” explores how AI is transforming industries, providing actionable insights and practical strategies for harnessing AI’s power.

In his current role, Kerik leads a team of digital marketing consultants in Atlanta, offering services that include strategy development, branding, marketing conversion rate optimization, automation, inbound marketing, SEO, PPC, eCommerce, and customer acquisition strategies. His agency has worked with clients across various industries, including finance, media, eCommerce, and education. Kerik’s commitment to AI and digital transformation is reflected in his work with clients, where he helps them leverage AI to drive revenue growth and improve operational efficiency.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to The Exit Exchange
01:59 Guest Introduction: Gerardo Kerik
02:12 Gerardo’s Background and AI Journey
03:39 Understanding AI: Myths and Realities
04:06 The Evolution of AI
08:12 AI Tools and Practical Applications
18:34 Confidentiality and Privacy Concerns
22:00 Challenges in AI Implementation
26:38 Future of AI and Adoption
32:59 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

The Exit Planning Exchange Atlanta

Their members work with business owners through all stages of the private company life cycle: business value growth, business value transfer, and owner life and legacy. Their vision: to fundamentally change the trajectory of exit planning services in the Southeast United States. XPX Atlanta delivers a collaboration-based networking exchange with broad representation of exit planning competencies. Learn more about XPX Atlanta and why you should consider joining our community by following this link.

The host of The Exit Exchange is John Ray, and the show is produced by North Fulton Business Radio, LLC, the North Fulton affiliate of Business RadioX®, in Alpharetta. The show archive can be found by following this link.

John Ray and Business RadioX North Fulton are Gold Sponsors of XPX Atlanta.

Franchise Strategies from Startup to Exit, with Michael Rosenthal, Clark Hill Law

December 11, 2024 by John Ray

Franchise Strategies from Start to Exit, with Michael Rosenthal, Clark Hill Law, on The Exit Exchange with host John Ray

North Fulton Studio

Franchise Strategies from Startup to Exit, with Michael Rosenthal, Clark Hill Law

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Franchise Strategies from Startup to Exit, with Michael Rosenthal, Clark Hill Law (The Exit Exchange, Episode 21)

In this episode of The Exit Exchange, hosted by John Ray, the discussion features Michael Rosenthal, a founding member of XPX Atlanta and a seasoned advisor in franchise and distribution law. Michael delves into the intricacies of franchising, covering both franchisor and franchisee perspectives, and shares his insights into trends such as the increasing role of private equity in the franchise industry. The conversation also touches on the importance of due diligence, proper record-keeping, and considering the exit strategy right from the start when buying a franchise. Additionally, Michael discusses the value of XPX Atlanta for business owners and professionals involved in exit planning.

The host of The Exit Exchange is John Ray, and the show is produced by John Ray and the North Fulton affiliate of Business RadioX®. John Ray and Business RadioX-North Fulton are Gold Sponsors of XPX Atlanta.

Michael Rosenthal

Michael Rosenthal has recently transitioned to Clark Hill Law after a successful tenure at Taylor English Duma LLP.

With a robust background in corporate law, he specializes in franchising, distribution, and business succession planning. Throughout his career, Rosenthal has represented both franchisors and franchisees, providing comprehensive legal support that includes Franchise Disclosure Document preparation, state registrations, and ongoing business counseling. His expertise has garnered him recognition in prestigious publications such as Who’s Who Legal and Franchise Times, solidifying his reputation as a leading attorney in the field.

In addition to his legal practice, Rosenthal has held significant roles in various organizations, including serving as an independent director for Inland Retail Real Estate Trust, Inc. (IRRETI) and as a board member of the Exit Planning Exchange’s Atlanta Chapter. He is also an active member of the American Bar Association Forum on Franchising.

A graduate of the University of Florida for both his undergraduate and law degrees, Rosenthal has been recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® from 2023 to 2025.

Clark Hill Law

Clark Hill’s value proposition is straightforward: the firm offers clients an exceptional team dedicated to delivering outstanding service.

They recruit and develop talented individuals, empowering them to contribute to a rich diversity of legal and industry experience.

With locations across the United States, Ireland, and Mexico, Clark Hill operates in agile, collaborative teams, partnering with clients to help them achieve and surpass their business goals.

Clark Hill. Simply Smarter.

LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to The Exit Exchange
00:32 Meet Michael Rosenthal
02:12 Understanding Franchise and Distribution Law
06:17 Trends in the Franchise Industry
09:10 Franchisee Considerations and Due Diligence
13:29 The Economics of Franchising
18:29 Exit Planning for Franchisees
27:03 The Value of XPX Atlanta
35:00 Conclusion and Contact Information

The Exit Planning Exchange Atlanta

Their members work with business owners through all stages of the private company life cycle: business value growth, business value transfer, and owner life and legacy. Their Vision: To fundamentally change the trajectory of exit planning services in the Southeast United States. XPX Atlanta delivers a collaborative-based networking exchange with broad representation of exit planning competencies. Learn more about XPX Atlanta and why you should consider joining our community by following this link.

The host of The Exit Exchange is John Ray, and the show is produced by the North Fulton affiliate of Business RadioX® in Alpharetta. The show archive can be found by following this link.

John Ray and Business RadioX North Fulton are Gold Sponsors of XPX Atlanta.

Elevating Exit Planning and XPX Atlanta, with XPX Atlanta President Maria Forbes and President-Elect Anthony Chen

May 2, 2024 by John Ray

Maria Forbes and Anthony Chen, XPX Atlanta, elevating exit planning

North Fulton Studio

Elevating Exit Planning and XPX Atlanta, with XPX Atlanta President Maria Forbes and President-Elect Anthony Chen

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Elevating Exit Planning and XPX Atlanta, with XPX Atlanta President Maria Forbes and President-Elect Anthony Chen (The Exit Exchange, Episode 17)

On this episode of The Exit Exchange, host John Ray welcomes Maria Forbes, President of XPX Atlanta, and Anthony Chen, President-elect. They discuss the formation of XPX Atlanta chapter in 2018 as part of the global Exit Planning Exchange based in Boston, highlighting its mission of innovating and elevating exit planning services in Atlanta. The organization attracts a diverse range of professionals who seek to work collaboratively to improve business owners’ exit strategies. They emphasize the essential need for interdisciplinary cooperation among professionals to successfully plan and execute business exits, focusing on low- to mid-market, privately held businesses. The episode also covers the evolution of XPX Atlanta over the years, its shift towards member-led initiatives, and upcoming events such as mastermind groups and a major conference in November. The discussion underscores the importance of early and strategic planning for business exits and the role of XPX Atlanta in facilitating this through collaboration, education, and promoting long-term thinking among professionals.

The host of The Exit Exchange is John Ray, and the show is produced by John Ray and the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®. John Ray and Business RadioX are Gold Sponsors of XPX Atlanta.

Maria Forbes, President, XPX Atlanta

Maria is the President of XPX Atlanta and was a founding board member of the chapter.

In her professional practice, Maria Forbes is the Founder and President of FIREPOWER Business Catalyst, LLC. Maria’s thirty-year consulting career serves privately held business owners in financial services and related fields across the U.S. Our mission is to integrate financial capital with human capital in planning for organizational growth and continuity. Maria’s work frames the long-term trajectory of business growth and succession through people-powered structures that enable an ongoing positive impact of talent through all business life cycles.

Maria and her teams provide expertise in expanding internal capacity through creative alignment of human values, making it possible for owners and key decision-makers to lead both their people and their businesses confidently toward the future. As a committed strategic partner to her clients, Maria makes visible the arrangement of human strengths as part of an innovative business strategy. This work optimizes organizational performance and builds transferable value as owners look toward a role transition and business succession.

Maria conducts a summer mentor program for college graduates and seasoned professionals who are navigating career transitions. The mentor process develops personal advantage in the career marketplace and fosters confidence in communicating the best roles for a successful new career.

Maria is a Kolbe Certified Consultant, Faculty member of The Life Transitions University™, mentor, and member of the Catholic Charities Atlanta Georgia Leadership Program.

Anthony Chen, President-Elect, XPX Atlanta

Anthony Chen, Lighthouse Financial, and host of Family Business Radio — **Anthony Chen**

Anthony Chen is the President-Elect of XPX Atlanta. He will begin his term as President of the chapter in January 2025.

In his professional practice, Anthony is a financial advisor with Lighthouse Financial. He is also the host of Family Business Radio.

Anthony Chen started his career in financial services with MetLife in Buffalo, NY, in 2008. Born and raised in Elmhurst, Queens, he considers himself a full-blooded New Yorker while now enjoying his Atlanta, GA, home. Specializing in family businesses and their owners, Anthony works to protect what is most important to them. From preserving to creating wealth, Anthony partners with CPAs and attorneys to help address all of the concerns and help clients achieve their goals. By using a combination of financial products ranging from life, disability, and long-term care insurance to many investment options through Royal Alliance, Anthony looks to be the eyes and ears for his client’s financial foundation.

In his spare time, Anthony is an avid long-distance runner.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Welcome to the Exit Exchange: Introducing XPX Atlanta
01:11 The Mission and Vision of XPX Atlanta
02:39 Addressing the Core Needs of Business Owners
04:44 The Importance of a Multidisciplinary Approach
12:07 The Evolution and Growth of XPX Atlanta
14:48 Member-Led Initiatives and Future Directions
22:52 Maximizing Member Engagement and Utilizing Resources
25:44 Reviving the Exit Exchange Show: A New Focus
28:31 Joining and Benefiting from XPX Atlanta

The Exit Planning Exchange Atlanta

The Exit Planning Exchange Atlanta (XPX) is a diverse group of professionals with a common goal: working collaboratively to assist business owners with a sale or business transition. XPX Atlanta is an association of advisors who provide professionalism, principles, and education to the heart of the middle market. Our members work with business owners through all stages of the private company life cycle: business value growth, business value transfer, and owner life and legacy. Our Vision: To fundamentally changing the trajectory of exit planning services in the Southeast United States. XPX Atlanta delivers a collaborative-based networking exchange with broad representation of exit planning competencies. Learn more about XPX Atlanta and why you should consider joining our community: https://exitplanningexchange.com/atlanta.

The Exit Exchange is produced by John Ray in the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® in Alpharetta. The show archive can be found at xpxatlantaradio.com.

John Ray and Business RadioX are Gold Sponsors of XPX Atlanta.

Diana Murphy, Diana Murphy Coaching, and Bill McDermott, The Profitability Coach

August 22, 2022 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

Diana Murphy, Diana Murphy Coaching, and Bill McDermott, The Profitability Coach

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Diana Murphy, Diana Murphy Coaching, and Bill McDermott, The Profitability Coach (The Exit Exchange, Episode 16)

On this episode of The Exit Exchange, Diana Murphy and Bill McDermott each shared how they help business owners achieve successful exits. Bill noted that the difficult part of getting clients to sell their businesses is not necessarily the lack of understanding of what needs to be done, but the mental block of getting them to take that first step. He offered an example of a recent engagement where breaking through that inertia was critical to the desired client outcome. Diana discussed how she focuses on the business owner’s thoughts and feelings to better understand their concerns and worries. She notes that many times, spouses or other family members can influence the business owner’s decisions without them even realizing it. By taking the time to ask specific questions and really listen to the answers, she noted, advisors can help uncover these hidden issues and create a faster process. Diana and Bill also shared why they are members of XPX Atlanta.

This episode of The Exit Exchange was hosted by John Ray and David Shavzin and was produced in the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® in Alpharetta.

Diana Murphy, Owner, Diana Murphy Coaching

Diana Murphy Coaching serves successful business owners when they need support during challenging transitions. Diana serves owners in big growth when they are thinking about selling and also during personal transitions that are affecting the business.

Diana Murphy is a life and mindset coach for the business owner/expert advisor/solopreneur. She helps business owners grow to reach their business goals while they take brilliant care of their health and life. Diana coaches her clients to achieve their life and business goals by learning how to handle the obstacles that are inevitable along the way.

Company website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram |

Bill McDermott, The Profitability Coach, Founder and CEO, McDermott Financial Solutions

Bill McDermott is the Founder and CEO of McDermott Financial Solutions. McDermott Financial helps business owners improve cash flow and profitability, find financing, break through barriers to expansion and financially prepare to exit their business. When business owners want to increase their profitability, they don’t have the expertise to know where to start or what to do. Bill leverages his knowledge and relationships from 32 years as a banker to identify the hurdles getting in the way and create a plan to deliver profitability they never thought possible.

Bill currently serves as Treasurer for the Atlanta Executive Forum and has held previous positions as a board member for the Kennesaw State University Entrepreneurship Center and Gwinnett Habitat for Humanity and Treasurer for CEO NetWeavers. Bill is a graduate of Wake Forest University and he and his wife, Martha have called Atlanta home for over 40 years. Outside of work, Bill enjoys golf, traveling, and gardening.

Company website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Twitter

The Exit Planning Exchange Atlanta

The Exit Exchange is produced by John Ray in the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® in Alpharetta. The show archive can be found at xpxatlantaradio.com.

John Ray and Business RadioX are Platinum Sponsors of XPX Atlanta.

Andrei Tsygankov, Founders Legal

November 17, 2021 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

Andrei Tsygankov, Founders Legal

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Andrei Tsygankov, Founders Legal (The Exit Exchange, Episode 9)

Andrei Tsygankov helps fast-growing companies to avoid becoming “flying gas cans.” Andrei joined this edition of The Exit Exchange to discuss questions firms should be asking their attorneys at various points in their growth cycle, trends in the legal industry that affect business owners, why he and his firm is a sponsor of XPX Atlanta, and much more. The Exit Exchange is co-hosted by David Shavzin and Bob Tankesley and is produced virtually from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® in Alpharetta.

Founders Legal

Founders Legal is a boutique, Corporate Transactional & Intellectual Property Law Firm based in Atlanta, that specializes in the areas of US and International Intellectual Property, Data Privacy, Business Transactional, and Securities law.

Founders Legal is devoted to making the practice of law more efficient through the use of its proprietary technology while providing a better overall client experience and delivering uncompromising value.

Company website | LinkedIn

Andrei Tsygankov, Partner, Founders Legal

Andrei Tsygankov is an Atlanta-based business transactional attorney and entrepreneur, and he helps fast-growing companies to avoid becoming flying gas cans. Andrei’s primary specialization as an attorney is Mergers & Acquisitions, Capital Raising, Private Equity, Software & Intellectual Property Licensing, as well as ongoing General Counsel services to companies who are hitting their growth stride.

In addition to being one of the founding Partners of Founders Legal, Andrei has co-founded and was directly involved in managing five (5) other companies. As a result, Andrei understands firsthand the challenges that company founders, owners, and executive teams face in building (and scaling) a business.

Given his business-first background, Andrei promotes a practical approach to law: Focusing first and foremost on providing clear answers, efficient legal solutions, and ultimately, great value to clients.

Questions and Topics Discussed in this Episode

Andrei’s client work at Founders Legal
What should a company be asking its attorney when it is experiencing rapid growth?
What should a company be asking its attorney when it is preparing for an exit?
What are some trends that you are seeing in the legal industry? How might those trends affect companies who are consumers of legal services?
What’s one legal tip you think every business would benefit from having?
Andrei’s entrepreneurial background and how it informs his
Why Andrei and Founders Legal finds their sponsorship of XPX Atlanta to be so beneficial

The Exit Planning Exchange Atlanta

The Exit Planning Exchange Atlanta (XPX) is a diverse group of professionals with a common goal: working collaboratively to assist business owners with a sale or business transition. XPX Atlanta is an association of advisors who provide professionalism, principles and education to the heart of the middle market. Our members work with business owners through all stages of the private company life cycle: business value growth, business value transfer, and owner life and legacy. Our Vision: To fundamentally changing the trajectory of exit planning services in the Southeast United States. XPX Atlanta delivers a collaborative-based networking exchange with broad representation of exit planning competencies. Learn more about XPX Atlanta and why you should consider joining our community: https://exitplanningexchange.com/atlanta.

The Exit Exchange is produced by John Ray in the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® in Alpharetta. The show archive can be found at xpxatlantaradio.com. John Ray and Business RadioX are Platinum Sponsors of XPX Atlanta.Andrei Tsygankov

Tiffany C. Wright, The Resourceful CEO, LLC

July 22, 2021 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

Tiffany C. Wright, The Resourceful CEO, LLC

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Tiffany C. Wright, The Resourceful CEO, LLC (The Exit Exchange, Episode 7)

Tiffany Wright of The Resourceful CEO joined The Exit Exchange to discuss many factors business owners need to consider in preparing to sell. These issues are both varied and complex, including cash flow issues, the psyche of the owner as they prepare to sell, being realistic about what the buyer needs to see, the strategic vs. investment potential of a business, and more. Tiffany’s comments are chockfull of insights for business owners thinking ahead to their exit strategy or even just wanting to improve their operations. This edition of The Exit Exchange is co-hosted by David Shavzin and Bob Tankesley and is produced virtually from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® in Alpharetta.

The Resourceful CEO, LLC

Your business IS valuable. It provides income for you, jobs that allow your employees to support their families and grow, and equity / net worth that supports your current, retirement, or next-generation wealth objectives.

Increase company EARNINGS and CASH FLOW and free up your time to drive wealth. If you or your business isn’t there yet, The Resourceful CEO can help.

Acting in a business consultant or a fractional COO/CEO capacity, The Resourceful CEO leads owners through successful, impactful financial and operational business restructurings that drive higher cash flow, stronger profits, greater owner flexibility, and freedom…and successful owner exits.

Company website | LinkedIn | Twitter

Tiffany C. Wright, President, The Resourceful CEO, LLC

Tiffany helps small to medium B2B companies restructure their operations and finances to generate stronger cash flow, higher profits and greater revenue. Her clients have experienced revenue increases of 10 to 40%, profitability increases of 20% to 250%, and doubling to quadrupling of cash flow in <=1 year. Tiffany C. Wright will talk to us about how you too can revamp your business to deliver your goals. She’s also the author of The Funding Is Out There! Access the Cash You Need to Impact Your Business.

Whether you’ve got a $300,000 transportation business, a $20 million business services company, or are an aspiring entrepreneur with options – Tiffany C. Wright has information and strategies for your business success.

Tiffany now combines her passion for financial independence and business ownership into helping B2B business owners who are frustrated, bored, upset and scared about the state of their business operations.

The Exit Planning Exchange Atlanta

The Exit Planning Exchange Atlanta (XPX) is a diverse group of professionals with a common goal: working collaboratively to assist business owners with a sale or business transition. XPX Atlanta is an association of advisors who provide professionalism, principles and education to the heart of the middle market. Our members work with business owners through all stages of the private company life cycle: business value growth, business value transfer, and owner life and legacy. Our Vision: To fundamentally changing the trajectory of exit planning services in the Southeast United States. XPX Atlanta delivers a collaborative-based networking exchange with broad representation of exit planning competencies. Learn more about XPX Atlanta and why you should consider joining our community: https://exitplanningexchange.com/atlanta.