In this episode of Poised for Exit, we welcome James Olsen, Partner at Seiler Law PLCC, for a practical discussion on the legal realities business owners face when preparing for a sale or transition.

James shares insights from advising Main Street and lower middle-market business owners, highlighting common legal pitfalls that can delay or derail an exit. From handshake agreements and undocumented contracts to buyer due diligence, earn-outs, and post-closing obligations, this episode breaks down what sellers need to address before going to market.

Our conversation covers how to prepare foundational legal documents, evaluate buyer fit, navigate seller carry and earn-out structures, and think strategically about post-closing involvement. James also shares what he’s seeing in the current deal environment and how business owners can position themselves for a smoother transition heading into 2026.

If you’re advising clients or preparing your own business for a future exit, this episode offers grounded, experience-driven guidance to help you reduce risk, protect value, and move forward with confidence.

Connect with James Olsen here

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

Episode Reprise

We’re excited to bring back this timely conversation as business owners focus on year-end planning and tax strategy. This episode remains especially relevant right now, and we’re thrilled to reshare these insights from the team at John A. Knutson & Co. for anyone preparing for a future transition.

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In this episode of Poised for Exit, we’re joined by Cindy Mclagan and Jonathon Lansink from John A. Knutson & Co., PLLP. We sit down for an insightful conversation on estate and tax planning for business owners preparing to exit!

Jonathon and Cindy address why proactive estate and tax strategies are critical for protecting generational wealth and ensuring smooth business transitions. From the use of trusts and gifting strategies to navigating the complexities of estate tax law, this episode is packed with practical advice for owners, advisors, and financial professionals alike.

Our conversation covers how to properly fund trusts, the role of irrevocable trusts in real estate planning, and the value of building a collaborative team that includes CPAs, attorneys, and financial advisors. Additionally, Jonathon and Cindy also touch on the challenges of generational family businesses and best practices for onboarding estate planning clients.

If you’re advising clients or preparing your own business for a future transition, this episode delivers grounded, actionable insights to help you plan ahead with clarity and confidence.

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

In this episode of Poised for Exit, we sit down with Gordon Bell, CEO and Founder of The Midland Group and fellow CEPA, for a conversation focused on why business owners must start planning their exit well before they intend to transition.

Gordon shares highlights from his career, including leading multiple companies and taking one public, and uses those experiences to illustrate the power of early preparation. He explains why readiness is essential not only for a future sale, but for protecting the business during life events, leadership changes, or unexpected opportunities.

Together, we break down the core elements of exit readiness: value enhancement, de-risking, assembling a trusted advisory team, and understanding the full range of transition options. Gordon also shares his perspective on staying engaged with the business long-term and his philosophy of “refire, not retire,” which has shaped the way he works with owners today.

This episode gives business owners clear steps and a realistic path to becoming truly exit-ready, no matter their timeline.

Key Topics Covered
• Lessons from Gord’s career as a multi-time CEO
• Why exit planning should begin long before a sale
• How preparedness protects owners from unexpected events
• The role of value growth and de-risking in exit success
• Building the right advisory team for long-term planning
• Understanding exit options and choosing with clarity
• The mindset behind “refire, not retire”

Next Steps & Resources
Connect with Gordon here

Learn more about The Midland Group here

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