XPX Atlanta Archives - Business RadioX ®

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.

Building a Business Through Acquisitions, with Joe Noonan, Inside EDGE Consulting

October 30, 2024 by John Ray

Insights from a Serial Acquirer, with Joe Noonan, Inside EDGE Consulting, on The Exit Exchange podcast with host John Ray

North Fulton Studio

Building a Business Through Acquisitions, with Joe Noonan, Inside EDGE Consulting

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Building a Business Through Acquisitions, with Joe Noonan, Inside EDGE Consulting (The Exit Exchange, Episode 19)

In this episode of The Exit Exchange, Joe Noonan joins host John Ray to offer a reprise of the story he shared during a recent XPX Atlanta lunch session on building a business through serial acquisitions. They discuss Joe’s evolution from co-owning a printing company to becoming a successful Proforma franchise owner. Key points include strategies for effective business acquisitions, the impact of choosing the right partners, and leveraging business resources like brokers and wealth advisors. Joe also emphasizes the importance of maintaining strong customer relationships and the role of expert coaching in avoiding common business pitfalls. Highlights include personalized acquisition tactics, strategic pricing, and the collaborative support available through XPX Atlanta.

Joe Noonan, Inside EDGE Consulting

Joe Noonan is the Head Coach at Inside EDGE Consulting, where he specializes in empowering CEOs, sales leaders, and entrepreneurs to refine their go-to-market strategies and address challenges in sales and leadership. With a mission to “cure sales and leadership pain,” Joe leverages his expertise as a certified professional speaker and sales coach to provide impactful training and guidance. His approach focuses on building strong team cultures and fostering determination among team members, which he effectively communicates through engaging content on platforms like LinkedIn.

With extensive experience in sales and leadership coaching, Joe has developed tailored programs that address common pain points within organizations, ensuring they achieve sustainable growth. His commitment to continuous learning is reflected in his professional credentials, and he actively contributes to community initiatives as a board member for various organizations.

Joe’s dedication to enhancing organizational effectiveness makes him a valuable asset for businesses seeking to elevate their leadership capabilities and sales strategies.

Website | LinkedIn

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to The Exit Exchange
00:30 Meet Joe Noonan: Business Acquirer and Seller
01:52 Inside EDGE Coaching: Empowering Leaders
03:04 The Journey of Unlimited Printing
03:32 Lessons from Business Partnerships
06:21 Transition to Proforma Franchise
09:14 Acquisition Strategies and Sales Tactics
15:51 Marketing to Solopreneurs
16:55 Deal Structure Insights
20:34 The Role of Business Brokers
21:53 Identifying Red Flags
23:01 Financials and Due Diligence
24:47 The Value of Acquisitions
27:33 The Importance of Advisors
29:15 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

The Exit Planning Exchange Atlanta

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.

How XPX Atlanta Makes Advisors Better, with Scott Ward, Corporate Real Estate Advisors

August 27, 2024 by John Ray

Scott Ward, Corporate Real Estate Advisors, on The Exit Exchange Podcast, hosted by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

How XPX Atlanta Makes Advisors Better, with Scott Ward, Corporate Real Estate Advisors

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How XPX Atlanta Makes Advisors Better, with Scott Ward, Corporate Real Estate Advisors (The Exit Exchange, Episode 18)

In this episode of The Exit Exchange, host John Ray welcomes Scott Ward, an active member of XPX Atlanta and a commercial real estate tenant representative. They discuss the role and benefits of XPX Atlanta, a group dedicated to improving exit planning services for business owners. The conversation highlights the collaborative nature of XPX Atlanta, the value it offers to members, and the significance of early planning for business transitions. Scott explains in detail how XPX Atlanta makes its members better at the work they do for clients. He also touches on various events and learning opportunities provided by XPX Atlanta to enhance professional skills and foster genuine relationships among its members. Finally, Scott also shares insights into his own real estate business, the importance of avoiding conflicts of interest, and how he helps businesses secure better leases.

For more information on Exit XPO 2024, mentioned in the show, follow this link or download a flyer here.

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-North Fulton are Gold Sponsors of XPX Atlanta.

Scott Ward, Corporate Real Estate Advisors

Scott Ward is a veteran of over 25 years owning businesses.

Successfully representing and consulting other business owners in lease negotiations in the technology, healthcare, retail and manufacturing industries, Scott’s unique perspective as a business owner ensures a tight focus on the owner/tenant’s long term cash flow needs as a catalyst for the future health of his client’s company.

Scott has mentored five former employees to own their own businesses and applies these techniques in formulating winning space solutions for his clients. He has served on boards or as an officer in Rotary International (Treasurer/International Director), The Chattahoochee Nature Center Board, The Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, Scouts BSA (adult training), Toastmasters International, The Georgia Production Partnership (membership, industry relations and governmental relations) and the Atlanta Theatre to Go Board.

Scott is a member of the Atlanta Commercial Board of Realtors and a graduate of the University of Florida. Scott is also a public speaker and presentation coach.

He loves fly fishing, sailing and has been known to swing a golf club or two! His family’s accomplishments overwhelm him with pride. If you would like to share a coffee, please reach out!

Company Website | Company LinkedIn | Scott Ward LinkedIn

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to the Exit Exchange
01:18 Meet Scott Ward: Commercial Real Estate Expert
03:45 The Role of XPX in Business Transitions
05:07 XPX Meetings and Networking
08:13 The Importance of Listening and Learning
21:06 Experience XPX: Monthly Zoom Meetings
22:46 XPX Membership and Conferences
26:23 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The Exit Planning Exchange Atlanta

The host of The Exit Exchange is John Ray, and the show is produced by Business RadioX® – North Fulton 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.

Announcing EXIT XPO 2024, XPX Atlanta’s First Conference, with David Shavzin, Nikki Evans, and Josh Dukelow

June 5, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

Announcing EXIT XPO 2024, XPX Atlanta's First Conference, with David Shavzin, Nikki Evans, and Josh Dukelow

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Announcing EXIT XPO 2024, XPX Atlanta’s First Conference, with David Shavzin, Nikki Evans, and Josh Dukelow (The Exit Exchange, Episode 17)

This episode of The Exit Exchange features a major announcement from XPX Atlanta: the organization’s first conference, EXIT XPO. The conference is scheduled for November 14th, 2024, at the Cobb Galleria in Atlanta. Exit XPO 2024 committee members David Shavzin, Nikki Evans, and Josh Dukelow join host John Ray, discussing the event’s purpose and benefits for attendees, speakers, and sponsors. Key points include the conference’s focus on fostering connections between exit planning and value creation professionals, education for those professionals, the process for speaker applications, and opportunities for sponsorship and volunteering. Additionally, the episode highlights the broader mission of XPX Atlanta to foster collaboration among advisors and support business transitions throughout the Southeast.

For more information on Exit XPO 2024, follow this link or download a flyer here.

David Shavzin, President, The Value Track

David Shavzin brings over 25 years of experience in value creation, exit strategy, succession planning, and business sales. He founded The Value Track in 2000 with the vision of assisting business owners in maximizing the value of their life’s work by getting their companies “on the value track” and selling them at the right time and for the best price.

As a Certified Management Consultant (CMC), David has developed a unique team approach and suite of tools to guide owners through the complex process of selling a business. His methodology focuses on addressing key areas that buyers scrutinize, such as owner dependence, accurate financials, recurring revenue, operational procedures, and regulatory compliance.

David’s mission is to help owners avoid common mistakes and pitfalls that can lead to lower valuations or failed sales. He emphasizes the importance of proper preparation, value-building strategies, and a smart, customized selling strategy tailored to each client’s specific situation.

LinkedIn | Website

Nikki Evans, Ridgeline Coaching

Nikki Evans is a coach with a behavioral approach to helping her clients achieve their goals. Nikki believes that success comes from being intentional about choices and recognizing individual strengths.

With her expertise in behavioral patterns, she helps her clients identify their strengths and create actionable plans to achieve the success they want. Nikki’s unique approach to solving issues in business goes beyond just addressing surface-level issues. She takes the time to understand the root cause of problems within an organization, recognizing that making changes in one area may impact other areas.

Her framework for understanding complex and changing systems ensures that the right root cause is being addressed, leading to the intended outcome while being mindful of any unintended consequences of change.

Nikki’s approach to communication is clear and concise. She recognizes the power of context in shaping perceptions and attitudes and advocates for a collaborative approach to problem-solving. She uses metaphor and humor to drive clarity with clients.

With her 20+ year background in information technology and her certifications in coaching individuals and teams, Nikki has worked with a diverse range of clients, from executive women’s leadership forums to non-profit groups dealing with the challenges of the pandemic. Her focus on recognizing strengths, understanding root causes, and communicating clearly has helped her clients achieve their goals and become more effective, joyful, and productive in their work.

LinkedIn | Website

Josh Dukelow, Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta

Josh Dukelow brings a passion for enhancing communities through charitable planning. As Gift Planning Officer, he helps donors include philanthropy in their estate plans, and educates trusted advisors on charitable planning tools. Prior to the Foundation, Josh worked for nonprofits of all types and sizes, including Lawrence University, where he served as a Major & Planned Giving Officer for four years. Josh regularly highlighted gift planning and racial equity issues as the host of his radio talk show and podcast from 2016 to 2022.

Josh earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in History at Lawrence University and a Master’s of Public Affairs in Policy Analysis from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Having relocated to Atlanta from Appleton, Wisconsin, in March 2022, Josh enjoys exploring the city and is active as a volunteer with Trees Atlanta. In addition to volunteering, Josh enjoys reading (politics and history), traveling, kayaking, and walking along the BeltLine.

LinkedIn | Website

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
01:23 Meet the Guests: Nikki Evans, David Shavzin, and Josh Dukelow
03:56 Conference Overview: Exit XPO 2024
04:32 History and Mission of XPX Atlanta
07:17 Conference Details and Knowledge Tracks
10:49 Call for Speakers and Application Process
18:49 Sponsorship and Volunteer Opportunities
24:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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.

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 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.

Jeff Armacost, Whole Brain Creative

July 21, 2022 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

Jeff Armacost, Whole Brain Creative

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Jeff Armacost, Whole Brain Creative (The Exit Exchange, Episode 15)

Branding is foundational for all businesses, says Jeff Armacost. Jeff joined this edition of The Exit Exchange to discuss several different aspects of branding, including defining what branding is and what makes a brand successful, the role of branding in building and maintaining the value of a business, and much more.

This episode of The Exit Exchange was co-hosted by Maria Forbes and Mike Rosenthal and was produced in the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® in Alpharetta.

Whole Brain Creative

Whole Brain Creative empowers ambitious entrepreneurs and visionary leaders.

They help them create, build, and grow brands for B2B, Higher Education, Medical and Medical Technology, Technology, Organizations, Visionary start-ups, Non-profits, Entrepreneurs, and much more. They love the work they do and love collaborating with an outstanding group of clients.

Each year Whole Brain serves a diverse group of clients. But always with one thing in common: to create brands that differentiate, connect, and stand out.

KEY SERVICES • Naming and Logo • Brand Launch and Rebrand • Internal Branding Initiatives • Breakthrough Brand Messaging – Tagline, Headlines, Elevator Speech, Core Content • Brand-Powered Websites • Killer Concepts and Campaigns

Company website | LinkedIn | Facebook

Jeff Armacost, Chief Brand Guy, Whole Brain Creative

For 20+ years Jeff Armacost has guided successful, standout brand development for over 100 companies and organizations of all kinds. Jeff gets in close with his clients, gets up to speed fast, listens well, and distills the powerfully simple story and branding that presents them in the best possible way.

Business owners and CEOs call on him as a thinking partner in building their brand, and a cost-effective solution for ongoing branding, brand launches, and key internal branding initiatives. Fast-growing small businesses call on him when it’s time for a serious rebrand or on-the-fly brand refresh that positions them to reach big goals and outpace their competition.

Experienced business advisors pull Jeff in – and if needed, his team of graphic design and web development – to add big-time brand power to their client’s marketing campaigns, new website projects, and more.

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.

Eric Togneri, Neri Capital Partners and Rob Margeton, Ryco Advisors

May 19, 2022 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

Eric Togneri, Neri Capital Partners and Rob Margeton, Ryco Advisors

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Eric Togneri, Neri Capital Partners, and Rob Margeton, Ryco Advisors (The Exit Exchange, Episode 14)

Eric Togneri, Managing Partner with Neri Capital Partners, and Rob Margeton, Co-Founder of Ryco Advisors, joined the show to discuss critical elements and considerations in selling a business. They discussed the increasing attempts of equity groups to consolidate industries, the role of business valuations, current issues such as price increases in labor and product, the conversations to assist sellers to improve valuations, encouraging business owners to reduce their role, and much more.

This episode of The Exit Exchange was co-hosted by Bob Tankesley and Maria Forbes and is produced virtually from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® in Alpharetta.

Neri Capital Partners

Neri Capital Partners was founded in 2006 with headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia. Our firm is an investment bank for family-owned and privately-held small and midsize businesses with a strong history and clear path to growth. Neri Capital provides merger, acquisition, and related advisory services.

Neri Capital Partners’ entrepreneurial and transactional experience and expertise has positioned the firm as uniquely qualified to offer advisory services for business owners to successfully Determine, Build and then Realize the value they have created. Regardless of where our clients are in their business life cycle, Neri Capital services are designed to add value to liquidity.

Company website | LinkedIn

Eric Togneri, Managing Director, Neri Capital Partners

Eric Togneri is a Lower-Middle Market Investment Banking professional providing Investment Origination and M&A Advisory. He is also a Consumer Goods Team Leader for Sales, Shopper Marketing, Trade Promotion, Trade Finance, and Business Analytics.

Eric is currently serving as Managing Director of Neri Capital Partners focused on providing Business Owners the path to Determining, Building, and Realizing the Value of Companies; Also, providing Deal Origination expertise for Private Investors to achieve Quality Deal Flow.

Prior to Neri Capital, Eric was an accomplished Consumer Products Department Head and National Team Leader with Fortune 100 consumer organizations such as L’Oréal, Pfizer, and Sanofi; Also, a Sr. Consultant at Neri Consumer and a Principal in the Category Management Association.

Ryco Advisors

Ryco Advisors is an Atlanta-based, independent advisory firm focused on the sale of small and lower-middle-market owner-operated companies.

The professionals at Ryco not only have extensive financial and transactional experience, but they’ve also been business owners just like you.

They have run their own operating businesses and understand firsthand what it’s like to make the decision to sell and which steps to take to achieve a profitable sale. They leverage their perspective as business owners, coupled with years of experience working with major Wall Street firms and consulting companies, to achieve superior results for our clients.

They have advised numerous clients – both large and small – on sale and transfer transactions, and treat every business they sell as if it were their own.

Company website | LinkedIn

Rob Margeton, Co-Founder, Ryco Advisors

Robert (Rob) Margeton has over 15 years of experience working in the financial services industry and running his own business. Prior to co-founding Ryco Advisors, Mr. Margeton served as a Managing Director at Capstone Advisory Group, a New York middle-market restructuring, and financial advisory consulting firm. During his tenure there, he advised clients on over 50 transactions across a diverse set of industries. Mr. Margeton also has extensive experience running and managing his own business.

Together with Lindsay Margeton, he acquired the flagship Fleet Clean location in 2013 and oversaw a successful sales process in 2018. During their tenure at Fleet Clean, the company’s revenues and EBITDA grew by over 75% and 95%, respectively. They managed over 30 employees and serviced more than 150 clients throughout Metro Atlanta, including many Fortune 500 companies. Ryco Advisors assists owner-operating businesses in the lower middle market space on sell-side engagements. Businesses typically have revenues between $5 million and $50 million.

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