What if putting a “for sale” sign on your business isn’t enough anymore? What if the real difference between an average outcome and an exceptional one comes down to preparation, positioning, and who’s advocating for you when it matters most?

Too often, brokers and business owners wait—hoping the right buyer will magically appear. But without competitive tension, clear market positioning, and a strong digital reputation, waiting can quietly cost you leverage and value. The best outcomes aren’t accidental; they’re engineered through intentional visibility, expert guidance, and a deep understanding of how buyers actually behave.

In this episode, Jason Cutter sits down with author, M&A expert, and The Chairman Group Founder, Adam Coffey, for a masterclass on becoming a truly trusted advisor. Together, they explore what it really takes to maximize value—why businesses should be staged, not just listed; how the critical three-year window before exit shapes outcomes; and how digital reputation, AI, and strategic positioning can attract better buyers and stronger offers.

If you’re serious about elevating your role, sharpening your expertise, and creating better outcomes for yourself or your clients, this conversation is a must-listen. Subscribe, reflect on where you can be more intentional, and start building the kind of presence and preparation that earns trust long before a deal is on the table.

Have you ever wondered what the future holds for brokers and intermediaries in a technology-driven world? Or how AI might really impact M&A, beyond just the hype and headlines? This episode is packed with practical insights on where the industry is headed and how professionals can stay ahead.

You'll discover why relationship-building and people skills still reign supreme, even as AI and automation become more prominent. The conversation dives deep into the reality that while tech can streamline some back-office and marketing tasks, it can’t fully replace the human element when it comes to trust and deal-making. Plus, you’ll hear why adapting to economic shifts and embracing thoroughness are essential lessons for anyone in the field.

Our guest for this episode is John Martinka of Nokomis Advisory Services, a seasoned M&A expert and author with decades of experience helping business owners and brokers navigate complex transactions. He joins Jason Cutter to discuss the skills that will always matter, the biggest tech changes coming to the industry, lessons learned from tumultuous years, and what gets him excited for the future. Plus, you’ll hear John’s compelling take on the marketing strategy he wishes could be fully automated.

If you want to stay ahead in M&A—whether you’re brokering deals, leading a firm, or just passionate about the industry—be sure to listen in, connect with John Martinka on LinkedIn, and check out the show notes for more ways to follow his work. Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

What separates a great business broker or intermediary from the rest, and how do you truly set your clients—and yourself—up for lasting success in the M&A field?

In this episode, we dig into actionable answers. You’ll discover why “doing great work” is more than a mantra, and how transparency, authentic marketing, and integrity lead to more valuable, stress-free deals. Learn why focusing on presenting the true strengths and weaknesses of a business pays off, and why building genuine relationships (and giving first) creates a steady stream of referrals from trusted advisors and happy clients.

Today’s special guest is John Martinka, co-founder of Nokomis Advisory Service, seasoned intermediary, and author of five books—including "Exit with Style, Grace and More Money." John Martinka joins host Jason Cutter to share the evolution of his career, the real difference between brokers and intermediaries, pro tips for marketing yourself, and the importance of preparing clients both financially and emotionally for exit. He opens up about lessons learned, pitfalls to avoid (like customer concentration and “lipstick on a pig” financials), and his philosophy for a win-win deal.

Ready to up your game as a business broker or intermediary? Listen in, connect with John Martinka on LinkedIn or at his firm’s website, and don’t forget to check out the show notes for bonus links and resources. If you find value in this conversation, be sure to subscribe and share the podcast with others in your network!