In this episode of Poised for Exit, Hilary Spreizer, Owner and CEO of The Latitude Group, shares her unexpected journey from employee to owner after purchasing the company during the uncertainty of COVID. She discusses the challenges of transitioning from leading sales and revenue generation to building the operational structure needed to scale a growing business.

Hilary explains how strategic hires, stronger systems, and a focus on scalable infrastructure helped the company achieve significant growth and earn a Fast 50 award. She also shares lessons on leadership, surrounding yourself with people who know what you don’t, and implementing frameworks like EOS to create accountability and long-term organizational stability.

The conversation also explores how mid-market companies are approaching AI, hiring, and technology adoption. Hilary discusses why many businesses rush into AI tools without a clear strategy, the operational and privacy risks that can create, and why companies should focus first on identifying the business problem before investing in technology solutions.

The episode highlights the connection between operational scalability and enterprise value, particularly for owners preparing for future growth or exit planning. Hilary shares why reducing founder dependency, building resilient teams, and slowing down long enough to create the right blueprint can dramatically improve long-term outcomes.

Connect with Hillary Spreizer here
Learn more about The Latitude Group here

Connect with Julie Keyes, Keyestrategies LLC
Founder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor

In this episode of Poised for Exit, Shaun Jackson, business broker with Calhoun Companies, steps in as guest host to interview his client, Dale Doriott, former owner of Injection Molding Solutions. Together, they walk through Dale’s real exit story and the key factors that led to a premium outcome.

Dale shares how he built the business over decades, including navigating the 2008 financial crisis and growing through disciplined operations and reinvestment. He explains how a focus on clarity, organization, and strong leadership positioned the company to stand out to buyers and ultimately command a higher valuation.

The conversation highlights the role of preparation and the impact of having the right advisory team in place. Sean and Dale discuss how alignment between the broker, accountant, and attorney strengthened their position during negotiations, even when working with a large, private equity-backed buyer. They also share how clear communication and trust helped guide key decisions throughout the process.

Dale shares key lessons from the process, including understanding financial metrics earlier and how deal structure decisions like retaining real estate created long term value. He also discusses the benefits of staying on post sale for continuity and success.

This episode offers business owners and advisors a grounded, real-world look at how preparation, leadership, and the right advisory team can drive stronger exit outcomes and lasting value beyond the transaction.

Connect with Shaun Jackson here

Learn more about Calhoun Companies here

Connect with Dale Doriott here

Learn more about Injection Molding Solutions here

Connect with Julie Keyes, Keyestrategies LLC
Founder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor

In this episode of Poised for Exit, Jennifer Vickerman Akaolisa, Gift Planner at Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation, joins us to discuss how philanthropy can become a powerful part of business exit planning. With a background in financial services and more than a decade of experience in philanthropy, Jennifer helps individuals, families, and business owners create giving strategies that align with their values and long-term goals.

Jennifer shares why entrepreneurs are often among the most generous givers and how many owners want their life’s work to continue making a difference after a sale or transition. She explains why these conversations should begin early and how thoughtful planning can create both personal fulfillment and lasting community impact.

The conversation also explores strategies such as donor-advised funds, gifting non-cash assets, and other planning tools that can help owners maximize flexibility and impact. Julie and Jennifer also preview their upcoming webinar focused on advising at the intersection of business exit planning, legacy building, and community impact.

This episode offers business owners and advisors a practical look at how philanthropy can strengthen exit planning while creating lasting value beyond the transaction.

Connect with Jennifer Vickerman Akaolisa here

Learn more about Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation here

Register for the upcoming webinar here

Connect with Julie Keyes, Keyestrategies LLC
Founder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor