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The M&A Mastermind Podcast

The M&A Mastermind Podcast

Nick Olsen 100 Episodes Jul 21, 2026

The M&A Mastermind Podcast is a show focused on mergers and acquisitions in the lower middle market. Host Nick Olsen interviews thought leaders who share strategies for market analysis, lead generation, deal management, and buyer access. The podcast aims to help small-to-medium sized business owners navigate the M&A industry.

Episodes

Brazil is a Market to Know for M&A - Episode 144
Brazil is a Market to Know for M&A - Episode 144 Jul 21, 2026 1806 In this episode, Leo Toscano, Managing Director of Excelia and partner of Cornerstone International Alliance, shares insights on the Brazilian M&A market, cross-border opportunities, and key industries driving growth. Discover how Brazil's unique economic landscape offers lucrative prospects for international investors and advisors. Key Topics: Brazilian M&A market evolution Cross-border
Fixing the Leaky Sales Funnel - Episode 143
Fixing the Leaky Sales Funnel - Episode 143 Jul 16, 2026 2331 In this episode, Jason Kramer of Cultivize shares insights on how to fix leaky sales funnels, implement effective follow-up processes, and leverage AI and CRM tools to nurture long-term relationships in M&A and sales. Key  Topics: Sales funnel leaks and how to fix them Importance of process and technology in sales Effective follow-up strategies and cadence Using AI for prospect research and o
Risks That Can Sabotage Business Transfers - Episode 142
Risks That Can Sabotage Business Transfers - Episode 142 Jul 9, 2026 2305 In this episode, Laurie Barkman, a seasoned exit strategist and author, shares insights on business transition, exit planning, and building transferable value. She discusses common pitfalls, the importance of succession planning, and how business owners can prepare for a successful exit. Key Topics Business transition and exit planning Common pitfalls in business transfer Building transferable bu
Hidden Costs of Not Having a Succession Plan – Episode 141
Hidden Costs of Not Having a Succession Plan – Episode 141 Jul 2, 2026 2395 This episode features Renee Russo discussing exit planning, succession strategies, and the importance of early preparation for business owners. She emphasizes the need for a comprehensive team approach, addressing emotional and structural challenges, and leveraging AI for future success. Key  Topics: Exit planning importance Succession conversation barriers Business valuation and transferability
Succession by Design – Episode 140
Succession by Design – Episode 140 Jun 25, 2026 2156 Jim Erben, a veteran succession and exit planning advisor, discusses the importance of strategic planning for business owners to ensure successful exits, minimize taxes, and secure their legacy. He emphasizes the need for intentionality, comprehensive valuation, and building a strong team to navigate the upcoming trillion-dollar business transition. Key Topics: The upcoming $13 trillion business
Digital Resilience Explained – Episode 139
Digital Resilience Explained – Episode 139 Jun 18, 2026 1988 Understanding cybersecurity risks is crucial for M&A transactions, especially in the lower middle market where these risks often go unchecked. This episode features Philippe Flichy, founder of Cykur, who shares his expertise on integrating cybersecurity into the valuation process and safeguarding enterprise value. Main Topics: The concept of business resilience and its importance in cybersecu
Elevating Risk Management for Business Growth – Episode 138
Elevating Risk Management for Business Growth – Episode 138 Jun 11, 2026 1591 Discover how strategic insurance planning and proactive risk management can drive business value, secure operations, and enhance exit opportunities. Led by Brian Riemer, CEO of Riemer Insurance Group, this episode delves into transforming insurance from a transactional expense into a strategic tool for businesses. Main Topics: The evolution of insurance from transactional to strategic advisory Ho
Unlocking AI Potential – Episode 137
Unlocking AI Potential – Episode 137 Jun 4, 2026 2295 Explore how AI can transform leadership, strategy, and efficiency in business with Ivey Conefry, a trusted advisor with experience in the military and aerospace industries. Learn practical prompting techniques, the importance of CRIT methodology, and how to integrate AI into daily workflows for a competitive advantage. Key  Topics: Prompting best practices CRIT methodology (Context, Role, Intervi
The Hidden Challenges After a Business Exit – Episode 136
The Hidden Challenges After a Business Exit – Episode 136 May 29, 2026 2394 In this episode, Jerome Myers, founder of Exit Excellence, dives deep into the often-overlooked psychological and emotional impacts of business exits. He emphasizes the importance of preparing business owners not just financially, but for a fulfilling post-exit life, tackling themes like identity loss, purpose, and mental health. Key Topics The "Founder’s Exit Paradox" — why the hardest part begi
How Structure Unlocks Hidden Business Value – Episode 135
How Structure Unlocks Hidden Business Value – Episode 135 May 21, 2026 1970 Unlock the secrets to sustainable business growth, overcoming stall zones, and preparing for exit strategies with real-world insights from Chris Burke. Whether you're scaling up or planning to sell, learn what structures create real value, how owner dependency impacts valuation, and practical steps to elevate your business. Main Topics Covered: The importance of system and structure over ideas fo
Achieving Outrageous Prices in M&A Deals – Episode 134
Achieving Outrageous Prices in M&A Deals – Episode 134 May 14, 2026 2200 Kevin Short, CEO of Clayton Capital Partners, shares his expertise on how to engineer better M&A outcomes by proactively preparing companies and understanding buyer psychology. Learn about the outrageous price process, the importance of competitive advantages, and how to call buyers' bluff to maximize deal value. Key Topics Outrageous price process and its four pillars How to identify and lev
An Acquisition in the Dealmaking Tech Space – Episode 133
An Acquisition in the Dealmaking Tech Space – Episode 133 May 7, 2026 1521 Nevin Raj, co-founder of Grata, discusses the transformative role of AI in M&A, recent acquisitions, and practical AI strategies for private market professionals. Insights include platform integrations, market intelligence, and the future of AI-driven workflows.  Nevin also dives into the partnership with Datasite and his viewpoint as the seller. Key Topics AI's impact on M&A workflows Pl

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