What happens when a business owner gets an unsolicited offer and assumes it's the best deal they'll ever see?

In this episode, Adam Burton sits down with M&A expert Scott Bushkie, the Managing Partner and Founder of Cornerstone Business Services, to unpack why that mindset can cost owners millions, and how the right exit strategy can create freedom, peace of mind, and a future without regret. Scott shares why most owners wait too long to plan their exit, the dangers of negotiating one-on-one with buyers, and how creating multiple offers can dramatically increase both value and leverage. The conversation explores the identity challenges many entrepreneurs face after a sale, and why understanding your "lifestyle number" matters just as much as understanding your valuation.

Adam and Scott discuss:

• Why unsolicited offers often leave business owners with less value and more risk

• How multiple offers create leverage, urgency, and stronger deal terms

• The key drivers that make a business more attractive and transferable

• Why exit planning is really just smart business planning

• And more!

Resources:

• Get your free personalized report at www.scaletosell.com/value

• Unlock your business's potential with our free Scale to Sell self-assessment

• Book your free discovery call with us today!

Connect with Our Team:

• Website: Scale to Sell

• info@scaletosell.com

• LinkedIn: Scale to Sell

• Facebook: Scale to Sell

• YouTube: Scale to Sell

• Instagram: Scale to Sell

Connect with Adam Burton and Steve Burton:

• LinkedIn: Adam Burton

• LinkedIn: Steve Burton

Connect with Scott Bushkie:

• Website: Cornerstone Business Services

• LinkedIn: Scott Bushkie

About our Guest:

Scott Bushkie is the founder and managing partner of Cornerstone Business Services, a nationally recognized mergers and acquisitions firm specializing in lower middle market and family-owned businesses. With nearly three decades of experience, Scott has helped hundreds of business owners navigate the complexities of selling their companies while maximizing value and protecting their legacy. He is also the author of Finish Strong: Sell Your Business on Your Terms.