The M&A Mastermind Podcast

The M&A Mastermind Podcast

The M&A Mastermind Podcast is your go-to source for the latest industry trends and strategies to level up your M&A practice. The show features thought leaders who specialize in the lower middle market space and share their experiences and expertise across key areas of execution, such as: market analysis, lead generation, deal management, strategic partnerships, buyer access and much more. With host Nick Olsen, each episode’s ”mastermind” will share ways in which they have found success in navigating the M&A industry to best support the small-to-medium sized private business owners they focus on serving.

Episodes

October 23, 2025 41 mins

In this episode of the M&A Mastermind podcast, Nick Olsen and Jeff MacKenzie discuss the current trends in mergers and acquisitions, particularly in the Canadian market. They explore the impact of uncertainty on business planning, the dynamics between buyers and sellers, and the importance of preparation for business owners. Jeff highlights the significance of focusing on controllable factors, succession planning, and the secto...

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In this episode of the M&A Mastermind podcast, host Nick Olsen speaks with Mike Lambrix, a seasoned expert in mergers and acquisitions, about the importance of maintaining a mindset of 'always being sellable.' They discuss proactive strategies for business owners to prepare for a potential sale, the significance of due diligence, and the emotional aspects of transitioning ownership. Mike emphasizes the need for clear operationa...

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In this episode of the M&A Mastermind podcast, host Nick Olsen interviews Gokul Padmanabhan, founder and CEO of a leading M&A advisory firm focused on the restoration industry. Gokul shares his unique consulting-first approach to M&A, emphasizing the importance of preparing businesses for sale and educating owners on exit readiness. He discusses the nuances of the restoration industry, the emotional aspects of selling a...

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In this episode of the M&A Mastermind podcast, Bryce Wolfe, Director of Strategic Growth at Unit 4, discusses the challenges faced by professional service organizations during mergers and acquisitions (M&A). He highlights the importance of technology integration, the need for standardized processes, and the role of ERP systems in facilitating successful acquisitions. Bryce shares insights from a recent survey indicating tha...

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In this episode of the M&A Mastermind podcast, host Nick Olsen interviews Terry Gerbers, a seasoned M&A attorney with over 30 years of experience. They discuss the importance of having a dedicated M&A attorney, the role of working capital in transactions, and the complexities surrounding intellectual property. Terry shares insights on how to choose the right M&A attorney, the collaboration between attorneys and M&am...

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September 18, 2025 40 mins

In this episode of the M&A Mastermind podcast, Craig Castelli discusses the critical role of talent in the success of lower middle market M&A firms. He shares insights on the challenges of attracting and retaining talent, the qualities that define successful team members, and the importance of investing in long-term talent development.

Craig emphasizes the need for a balanced approach in hiring, focusing on both experienced...

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August 28, 2025 43 mins

In this 100th episode of the M&A Mastermind podcast, host Nick Olsen interviews Verne Harnish, founder and CEO of Scaling Up, discussing the complexities of mergers and acquisitions (M&A). Harnish shares insights on the importance of having a skilled M&A advisor, common tactics used by buyers to negotiate lower prices, and the psychological games that can affect sellers. He emphasizes the need for business owners to pre...

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In this episode of the M&A Mastermind Podcast, we dive into the dynamic world of balancing multiple passions and career paths with our guest, Ben Utecht. From being a Super Bowl champion to a sought-after speaker and author, Ben shares his journey of thriving amidst chaos and the importance of loving what you do. Discover how he manages his diverse interests, the life lessons from sports, and the power of belief in achieving su...

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In this episode of the M&A Mastermind podcast, host Nick Olsen sits down with Russell Cohen, the president of South Florida M&A Advisors, to explore his remarkable journey from business brokerage to mergers and acquisitions. Russell shares insights into the challenges and triumphs of rebranding, the importance of building a strong team, and the strategic shift to targeting larger deals.

Discover how Russell's experience in ...

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In this episode of the M&A Mastermind Podcast, host Nick Olsen interviews David Miller, an international business coach and entrepreneur. David shares his journey from managing money in college to becoming a successful business owner and M&A advisor. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the 'magic' behind business growth, which includes intuition, creativity, and the alignment of values. David discusses the essenti...

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In this episode of the M&A Mastermind podcast, Nick Olsen interviews Bob Tankesley, an M&A advisor with extensive experience in the field. They discuss the importance of understanding buyer motivations, the need for sellers to adopt a buyer's mindset, and the various risk factors that can affect a transaction. Bob emphasizes the significance of preparation and building a strong advisory team to ensure a successful sale. He ...

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In this episode of the M&A Mastermind podcast, host Nick Olsen interviews Jamin Arvig, an experienced entrepreneur and expert in e-commerce and AI. They discuss Jamin's journey in building successful e-commerce brands, the importance of valuation strategies in mergers and acquisitions, and how AI is transforming the M&A landscape. Jamin shares insights on breaking through growth ceilings, navigating supply chain challenges ...

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In this episode of the M&A Mastermind Podcast, host Nick Olsen interviews Dru Morgan, managing director of Morgan Business Sales, who shares insights on the importance of investing in systems for business growth. Dru discusses the development of CIM-Pro, a proprietary platform designed to streamline M&A processes, enhance security, and improve engagement with clients. He emphasizes the need for businesses to adapt to techno...

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In this episode, Nick Olsen interviews Anthony Nitsos, a seasoned expert in the SaaS industry and fractional CFO. They discuss the unique financial metrics that are critical for SaaS companies, the role of a CFO in preparing for M&A, and the importance of due diligence. Anthony shares real-world examples of challenges faced during M&A transactions and emphasizes the need for accurate financial reporting and customer retenti...

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The M&A Mastermind Podcast – Episode 92 – Unveiling Value Creation Misconceptions

In this conversation, Jayne McQuillan discusses the misconceptions surrounding value creation in M&A, emphasizing the importance of preparation and understanding both financial and emotional drivers. She highlights the metrics that improve through value creation, the handling of unsolicited offers, and the critical role of leadership and cultu...

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In this episode of the M&A Mastermind podcast, host Nick Olsen interviews Javier Gonzalez, a partner and executive vice president of sales at Access Insurance Services. They discuss the importance of Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance for M&A advisors, particularly in the lower middle market. Javi explains common misconceptions about E&O insurance, key components of policies, must-haves for M&A advisory firms,...
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    In this conversation, Rebecca Davis shares her insights on the M&A industry, particularly in the veterinary sector. She discusses transformative client experiences, the importance of trust and relationships, the critical role of support staff, and how she fosters a collaborative team environment.

    Becca shares her journey into the veterinary industry, the importance of specialization, and how it has contributed to her firm's suc...

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    In this episode of the M&A Mastermind podcast, Nick Olsen interviews Monica Garcia Duggal, a financial expert who emphasizes a holistic approach to business and personal finance. Monica shares her entrepreneurial journey, the importance of breath work in decision-making, and strategies for scaling businesses. She introduces her BITES method, which provides a framework for financial management and sustainable freedom. The conver...

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    In this conversation, Nick Olsen and Bill Loftis discuss the intricacies of mergers and acquisitions (M&A), focusing on the journey of Blue River, the anatomy of a deal, and the importance of trust and education in the transaction process. Loftis shares insights on the seven stages of a transaction, the challenges faced by sellers, and the contrasting dynamics of the buy side. The discussion emphasizes the need for business own...

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    In this episode of the M&A Mastermind Podcast, host Nick Olsen interviews Justin Thimmesch, an associate at Cornerstone Business Services. They discuss the critical role of an analyst in M&A transactions, covering responsibilities such as valuation, client interaction, and the daily life of an analyst. Justin shares insights on building relationships with clients, managing high-pressure situations, and the skills necessary ...

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