Buyouts, Business and Bourbon

Epizodes

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  What Business Owners Need to Know Before Selling with Adam Margolis 03.06.2026 52min

  Selling your business sounds exciting, but most owners do not realize how much preparation, patience, and pressure come with the process.In this episode of Business, Buyouts, and Bourbon, Gerry Spitzer sits down with longtime friend and client Adam Margolis, co-founder of L&M Healthcare, to talk through Adam’s 20-year journey of building, growing, and eventually selling his company to private equity.Adam shares what it was like to grow the business with his partner, Lenny, why hiring a CFO was one of the most important decisions they made, and how years of preparation helped position the company for a successful exit.They also get into the reality of working with investment bankers, narrowing down buyers, protecting employees, surviving due diligence, and adjusting to life after the sale.For any business owner thinking about selling someday, this conversation is a real look behind the curtain.In This Episode, Gerry and Adam discuss:• How Adam and his partner built L&M Healthcare over 20 years• Why business owners should think about the exit long before they are ready to sell• The role a part-time CFO played in preparing the business for a sale• Why clean financial reporting matters so much in an M&A process• How Adam chose the right investment banker• What private equity buyers were really looking for• Why culture, employees, and fit mattered in choosing the buyer• What due diligence actually felt like from the seller’s side• The emotional shift from owner and CEO to post-sale managing director• Adam’s advice for owners who want to sell their business in the future• And, of course, a little bourbon talk at the endOne of the biggest lessons from Adam’s story is that you cannot start preparing for a sale when you are already ready to sell. The preparation needs to happen years in advance.Tune in to discover how ESOPs can transform business exits and why they might be the best-kept secret in the industry. Subscribe now to not miss an episode!#PrivateEquity #BusinessExit #SellingABusiness #BusinessOwners #MA #ExitPlanning #Entrepreneurship #BusinessBuyoutsAndBourbon---Connect with Us:If you enjoyed this episode, please like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from business leaders and entrepreneurs. Have questions or want to suggest a guest? Drop a comment below!About Gerry Spitzer:Gerry Spitzer is an expert in ESOPS and exit planning for business owners. As co-founder of Questar Capital Partners, he helps founders design tax-efficient exit strategies that preserve legacy, reward employees, and maximize value. With 30+ years in wealth management, Gerry works with companies generating $20M–$300M in revenue, guiding them through complex succession and liquidity events.📞 Connect with Gerry✉ gerry@questarcap.com📱 850-655-6500🌐 https://www.questarcap.com/🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerry-spitzer-cpwa%C2%AE-cepa%C2%AE-2472895/
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  Selling Your Business Is Like Becoming an Empty Nester with Matt Meline 20.05.2026 33min

  What happens after you sell your business?For many founders and business owners, the financial side of an exit gets most of the attention. But the emotional side can be just as important. In this episode of Business, Buyouts and Bourbon, Gerry Spitzer sits down with financial advisor Matt Moline to discuss the surprising parallels between becoming an empty nester and transitioning out of a business you’ve spent years building.Matt shares his own journey from banking to financial advising, launching his independent firm, and creating a show focused on the empty nest transition. Together, Gerry and Matt explore why business owners often struggle with identity, purpose, succession, and meaning after a sale.They also discuss how ESOP transactions can give owners more runway, why succession planning matters, how to think about life after liquidity, and why giving back can become a meaningful next chapter.If you’re a business owner thinking about selling, transitioning, or stepping back from the company you built, this conversation will help you think beyond the numbers.In This Episode00:00 Introduction to Matt Moline01:13 Matt’s journey from banking to financial advising03:39 Why Matt focuses on the empty nest transition05:35 The emotional shift of becoming an empty nester07:45 Paying for college and teaching kids financial lessons10:02 Reimagining life after the kids leave home12:15 Housing, lifestyle, and community decisions after transition14:16 Why selling a business can feel like “selling your baby”15:35 Finding meaning after a business exit17:56 ESOPs, succession planning, and staying involved after a sale20:32 Why life after a transaction needs to be planned, not assumed22:11 Giving back after retirement or a business exit25:50 Teaching personal finance in a county jail30:31 Bourbon, wine, golf, tennis, and pickleball injuriesWhat do you think is harder for a business owner: deciding when to sell, or figuring out what comes next after the sale? Let us know in the comments.#BusinessExitPlanning #ESOP #BusinessOwners #SuccessionPlanning #ExitPlanning #BusinessBuyoutsAndBourbon #RetirementPlanning #FinancialAdvisor #BusinessTransition #BourbonPodcast---Connect with Us:If you enjoyed this episode, please like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from business leaders and entrepreneurs. Have questions or want to suggest a guest? Drop a comment below!About Gerry Spitzer:Gerry Spitzer is an expert in ESOPS and exit planning for business owners. As co-founder of Questar Capital Partners, he helps founders design tax-efficient exit strategies that preserve legacy, reward employees, and maximize value. With 30+ years in wealth management, Gerry works with companies generating $20M–$300M in revenue, guiding them through complex succession and liquidity events.📞 Connect with Gerry✉ gerry@questarcap.com 📱 850-655-6500 🌐 https://www.questarcap.com/ 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerry-spitzer-cpwa%C2%AE-cepa%C2%AE-2472895/
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  NFL Records, Leadership, Business Ventures, and Life in the NFL with Zaire Franklin 22.04.2026 50min

  In this episode of Buyouts Business and Bourbon, All-Pro linebacker Zaire Franklin of the Indianapolis Colts shares his journey from Philadelphia to the NFL, breaking down what it takes to lead at the highest level while building businesses and preparing for life after football. From record-setting performances to entrepreneurship and philanthropy, this conversation dives into the mindset behind sustained success on and off the field.In this episode:• Zaire Franklin’s NFL career, including his All-Pro recognition, leading the league in tackles in 2024, and climbing the record books with the Indianapolis Colts.• His football journey from Philadelphia to La Salle College High School and becoming the youngest captain in Syracuse history at Syracuse University.• What it felt like to be drafted in the seventh round and the mindset shift required to prove himself in the NFL.• Leadership inside the locker room, embracing the role of a servant leader, and mentoring teammates.• Building businesses beyond football, including rental properties and a Rita’s franchise.• The mission behind Shelice’s Angels, his foundation honoring his late mother and grandmother, supporting young women, scholarships, and Girls Flag Football initiatives.• Preparing for life after football by diversifying identity, building financial awareness, and keeping options open.• Why current pro athletes need media platforms and how podcasting plays a role in shaping their narrative.• A lighter conversation on bourbon, whiskey, and his upcoming trip to the Kentucky Derby.This episode goes beyond football stats and highlights. It is a conversation about leadership, legacy, financial growth, and building purpose beyond the game. Zaire Franklin’s story offers insight into what it means to succeed in the NFL while intentionally preparing for business, philanthropy, and life after the final whistle.#ZaireFranklin #NFL #IndianapolisColts #leadership #entrepreneurship #lifeafterfootball #personaldevelopment #businessgrowthMake sure to connect with Zaire and Shelice’s Angels: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zaire-franklin-6170431aaWebsite: https://www.shelicesangels.org---Connect with Us:If you enjoyed this episode, please like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from business leaders and entrepreneurs. Have questions or want to suggest a guest? Drop a comment below!About Gerry Spitzer:Gerry Spitzer is a nationally recognized expert in ESOPs and exit planning for business owners. As co-founder of Questar Capital Partners, he helps founders design tax-efficient exit strategies that preserve legacy, reward employees, and maximize value. With 30+ years in wealth management, Gerry works with companies generating $20M–$300M in revenue, guiding them through complex succession and liquidity events.📞 Connect with Gerry✉ gerry@questarcap.com 📱 850-655-6500🌐 https://www.questarcap.com   🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerry-spitzer-cpwa%C2%AE-cepa%C2%AE-2472895 
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  ESOP Exit Planning with Josh Freeman & Richard Reyle 01.04.2026 40min

  Exit planning for middle market companies is becoming urgent, especially for Baby Boomer owners between ages 55 and 70 who have not yet structured their transition. In this episode, Josh Freeman and Richard Reyle break down mergers and acquisitions strategies, tax-free transaction structures, and why Employee Stock Ownership Plans are increasingly used as a powerful exit tool. Business owners will gain insight into how ESOPs and Qualified Replacement Property can potentially defer capital gains, preserve legacy, and create long-term financial efficiency.In this episode:• Exit planning strategies for middle market business owners preparing for a liquidity event.• Different ways owners can sell their businesses, including strategic buyers, private equity, ESOPs, and family transfers.• Why Employee Stock Ownership Plans offer significant tax advantages for both owners and employees.• How Section 1042 of the IRS tax code allows sellers to exchange privately held stock for Qualified Replacement Property on a tax-deferred basis.• What Qualified Replacement Property includes, such as floating rate notes, real estate, and equities.• Why floating rate notes are commonly used due to lower interest rate risk and higher borrowing capacity.• How the ESOP and QRP strategy is executed, including the 12-month reinvestment window and the use of margin loans.• The concept of negative cost of carry and why tax savings may outweigh borrowing costs.• How independent advisory firms compete with major institutions by offering open architecture and flexible lending solutions.• The additional benefits of ESOPs, including employee ownership, community goodwill, and long-term wealth creation.• A lighter discussion on bourbon favorites including Buffalo Trace, Pappy 23-year-old, Old Fitzgerald, and Eagle Rare.For business owners evaluating succession options, this conversation provides a detailed look at how ESOP structures and Qualified Replacement Property strategies can align tax efficiency, employee ownership, and legacy preservation. With the right preparation and advisory team, owners can approach their exit with clarity, control, and a long-term wealth management plan in place.#ESOP #exitplanning #sellingabusiness #middlemarket #taxstrategy #qualifiedreplacementproperty #MergersAndAcquisitions #businessownersMake sure to connect with Josh: Website: https://sanctuarywealth.com/people/josh-freeman/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-freeman-26ab80163 Connect with Richard:Website: https://www.questarcap.com/bio?BIO_ID=4313 Email: richard@questarcap.com ---Connect with Us:If you enjoyed this episode, please like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from business leaders and entrepreneurs. Have questions or want to suggest a guest? Drop a comment below!About Gerry Spitzer:Gerry Spitzer is a nationally recognized expert in ESOPs and exit planning for business owners. As co-founder of Questar Capital Partners, he helps founders design tax-efficient exit strategies that preserve legacy, reward employees, and maximize value. With 30+ years in wealth management, Gerry works with companies generating $20M–$300M in revenue, guiding them through complex succession and liquidity events.📞 Connect with Gerry✉ gerry@questarcap.com📱 850-655-6500🌐 https://www.questarcap.com/ 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerry-spitzer-cpwa%C2%AE-cepa%C2%AE-2472895/
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  Exit Planning, Selling Your Business, and Family Offices with Josh Pearce 04.03.2026 47min

  Selling a business is one of the most complex decisions an entrepreneur will face, yet many founders wait too long to prepare. In this episode, Jerry Spitzer and M&A corporate lawyer Josh Pearce break down the full exit planning process, from early preparation to post-sale asset management through family offices. Learn how strategic planning, diligence, and the right mindset can maximize value and minimize risk.In this episode:• The importance of starting exit planning early, as most founders never truly prepare.• How an exit readiness audit can guide the best path forward, whether selling, transitioning to family, or exploring private equity.• The common misconception that selling a business is simple and why buyers scrutinize every detail.• How diligence and risk affect pricing and deal terms, requiring a shift from building a business to selling one.• Prediligence steps 12 to 24 months out, including corporate hygiene, commercial foundations, financial credibility, people and IP matters, and regulatory cleanup.• The high cost of delaying fixes and how last-minute issues can reduce deal value.• Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS) opportunities, including eligibility, tax-free benefits, stacking strategies, and holding period considerations.• Fractional family offices and how they support ongoing asset management, tax planning, and operations for families with $20 million or more in assets.Selling a business is not just a transaction. It is a transformation that requires preparation, diligence, and strategic thinking. By understanding exit readiness, leveraging tax opportunities like QSBS, and planning for ongoing wealth management through family offices, entrepreneurs can secure their legacy, optimize deal value, and create long-term financial security.#exitplanning #sellingabusiness #familyoffices #QSBS #entrepreneurship #businessgrowth #wealthmanagementMake sure to connect with Josh: Website: https://www.bressler.com/people-joshua-pearce LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/japearce ---Connect with Us:If you enjoyed this episode, please like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from business leaders and entrepreneurs. Have questions or want to suggest a guest? Drop a comment below!About Gerry Spitzer:Gerry Spitzer is a nationally recognized expert in ESOPs and exit planning for business owners. As co-founder of Questar Capital Partners, he helps founders design tax-efficient exit strategies that preserve legacy, reward employees, and maximize value. With 30+ years in wealth management, Gerry works with companies generating $20M–$300M in revenue, guiding them through complex succession and liquidity events.📞 Connect with Gerry✉ gerry@questarcap.com📱 850-655-6500🌐 https://www.questarcap.com/ 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerry-spitzer-cpwa%C2%AE-cepa%C2%AE-2472895/
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  Unlocking The Power of Self-Insurance with Daniel Campbell 14.01.2026 48min

  In this episode, Dan Campbell of Campbell Petrie discusses his journey in the benefits consulting world, focusing on self-insurance and captive insurance. He shares insights on the evolution of health insurance, the importance of understanding different insurance models, and how businesses can benefit from innovative strategies to manage healthcare costs. The conversation also touches on real-world examples of companies that have successfully transitioned to captive insurance, emphasizing the long-term financial advantages and the need for a mindset shift among business owners.In this episode:00:00 Introduction to Benefits Consulting and Personal Journey12:11 Understanding Self-Insurance and Captive Insurance24:40 Navigating the Risks and Benefits of Captives26:31 Navigating Competition in Health Insurance27:01 Understanding Health Insurance Costs28:51 The Benefits of Self-Funding30:36 Long-Term Financial Planning for Health Insurance31:57 Shifting Mindsets in Health Insurance32:54 Client Education and Scenarios35:03 Cash Flow Benefits of Self-Insurance36:38 Captives and Business Valuation37:56 Long-Term Investment Strategies in Health Insurance39:45 Trends in Captives and Nonprofits40:40 Questions for Business Owners Considering Captives41:49 Community and Collaboration in Captives43:24 Challenges in Healthcare for Retirees44:55 Personal Insights and Closing ThoughtsMake sure to connect with Dan: Website: https://campbellpetrie.com/about-us/team/dan-campbell/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-j-campbell-bb61246/#BusinessExits #ESOP #BourbonTalk #QuestarTune in to discover how ESOPs can transform business exits and why they might be the best-kept secret in the industry. Subscribe now to not miss an episode!---Connect with Us:If you enjoyed this episode, please like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from business leaders and entrepreneurs. Have questions or want to suggest a guest? Drop a comment below!About Gerry Spitzer:Gerry Spitzer is a nationally recognized expert in ESOPs and exit planning for business owners. As co-founder of Questar Capital Partners, he helps founders design tax-efficient exit strategies that preserve legacy, reward employees, and maximize value. With 30+ years in wealth management, Gerry works with companies generating $20M–$300M in revenue, guiding them through complex succession and liquidity events.📞 Connect with Gerry✉ gerry@questarcap.com📱 850-655-6500🌐 https://www.questarcap.com/ 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerry-spitzer-cpwa%C2%AE-cepa%C2%AE-2472895/
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  Navigating Choices: The Art of Decision-Making with Dave Bolotsky 17.12.2025 53min

  Decision-making is more than picking left or right. In this episode, we explore how your mindset and personal growth shape the way you navigate the journey after making a choice. Discover why the process of making decisions can be just as transformative as the outcomes themselves and how embracing the journey can lead to self-improvement.Key Topics:• We don't make the right or wrong decisions.• It's how you travel after the choice that matters.• Mindset plays a crucial role in decision-making.• Personal growth is tied to the decisions we make.• The journey is as important as the destination.• Every decision can lead to valuable lessons.• Embrace the process of decision-making.• Reflect on choices to improve future decisions.• Decisions shape our experiences and growth.Making decisions is a daily part of life, but the true impact comes from how you navigate the path afterward. By focusing on your mindset, personal growth, and the lessons each choice offers, you can turn every decision into an opportunity for self-improvement and a richer life journey.#decisionmaking #choices #personalgrowth #mindset #journey #selfimprovement---Connect with Us:If you enjoyed this episode, please like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from business leaders and entrepreneurs. Have questions or want to suggest a guest? Drop a comment below!About Gerry Spitzer:Gerry Spitzer is a nationally recognized expert in ESOPs and exit planning for business owners. As co-founder of Questar Capital Partners, he helps founders design tax-efficient exit strategies that preserve legacy, reward employees, and maximize value. With 30+ years in wealth management, Gerry works with companies generating $20M–$300M in revenue, guiding them through complex succession and liquidity events.📞 Connect with Gerry✉ gerry@questarcap.com📱 850-655-6500🌐 https://www.questarcap.com/ 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerry-spitzer-cpwa%C2%AE-cepa%C2%AE-2472895/
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  Mark Kossow Explains ESOP vs. Private Equity: Which Exit Puts More Money in Your Pocket? 03.12.2025 35min

  In today’s episode, Mark Kossow breaks down one of the most misunderstood strategies in business exits: the 1042 election. If you’re a business owner thinking about selling—to private equity or an ESOP—you must understand how this election can help you legally eliminate capital gains tax and potentially walk away with tens of millions more in your pocket.We compare ESOPs vs. private equity, look at tax strategies that shift your net proceeds, and outline how smart planning can completely change your retirement and legacy.💡 Top TakeawaysThe 1042 election lets business owners sell and pay zero capital gains tax.Selling to an ESOP can produce more net proceeds than private equity—even if PE offers a higher headline number.Private equity rarely matches the tax benefits available through ESOP structures.Tax strategy = one of the biggest levers in a business sale.ESOPs create a unique tax-advantaged exit for owners.The buyer you choose directly influences your long-term wealth.Every business owner should compare ESOP vs. PE with real numbers.Expert financial planning before a sale can add millions to your outcome.If you're a business owner planning an exit in the next 1–5 years, this episode could save you millions.Subscribe for more tax-smart business strategies!—Connect with Mark:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-kossow-3948187/Website: https://www.clarkhill.com/people/mark-r-kossow/---Connect with Us:If you enjoyed this episode, please like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from business leaders and entrepreneurs. Have questions or want to suggest a guest? Drop a comment below!About Gerry Spitzer:Gerry Spitzer is a nationally recognized expert in ESOPs and exit planning for business owners. As co-founder of Questar Capital Partners, he helps founders design tax-efficient exit strategies that preserve legacy, reward employees, and maximize value. With 30+ years in wealth management, Gerry works with companies generating $20M–$300M in revenue, guiding them through complex succession and liquidity events.📞 Connect with Gerry✉ gerry@questarcap.com📱 850-655-6500🌐 https://www.questarcap.com/ 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerry-spitzer-cpwa%C2%AE-cepa%C2%AE-2472895/
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  Complexities of Business Transitions with Abby Donnelly 21.10.2025 44min

  Join us in this insightful episode of "Buyout Business and Bourbon" as we sit down with Abby Donnelly, a seasoned author, speaker, and coach with over 25 years of experience in business consulting. Abby shares her expertise on the complexities of succession planning, the emotional dynamics of business transitions, and the importance of strategic leadership development.Key Topics:- The challenges of transitioning business ownership and leadership- Emotional complexities in family-owned businesses- Developing strategic plans for future business needs- The role of a CEO in fostering a sustainable company cultureGuest: Abby Donnelly, Author and Business CoachHost: Gerry Spitzer#BusinessTransition #SuccessionPlanning #LeadershipDevelopmentTune in to gain valuable insights into successful business transitions and learn how to navigate the intricate dynamics of family-owned enterprises. Don't miss out on Abby's expert advice!---Connect with Us:If you enjoyed this episode, please like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from business leaders and entrepreneurs. Have questions or want to suggest a guest? Drop a comment below!About Gerry Spitzer:Gerry Spitzer is a nationally recognized expert in ESOPs and exit planning for business owners. As co-founder of Questar Capital Partners, he helps founders design tax-efficient exit strategies that preserve legacy, reward employees, and maximize value. With 30+ years in wealth management, Gerry works with companies generating $20M–$300M in revenue, guiding them through complex succession and liquidity events.📞 Connect with Gerry✉ gerry@questarcap.com📱 850-655-6500🌐 https://www.questarcap.com/ 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerry-spitzer-cpwa%C2%AE-cepa%C2%AE-2472895/
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  Navigating the Future of Accounting with Philip Whitman 07.10.2025 47min

  Join Gerry Spitzer in an engaging conversation with Philip Whitman, a legend in the accounting world. Discover insights into the evolving landscape of CPA firms, the challenges of recruiting new talent, and the impact of private equity in the industry. Philip shares his journey from public accounting to becoming a leading consultant, offering a unique perspective on the future of accounting.Key Topics:- The changing dynamics of CPA firms and recruitment challenges.- The role of private equity in transforming the accounting industry.- Philip Whitman's career journey and insights into practice management.- The importance of advisory services and multidisciplinary consulting.#Accounting #CPAFirms #PrivateEquity #BusinessInsightsTune in to explore the future of accounting and gain valuable insights from industry expert Philip Whitman.---Connect with Us:If you enjoyed this episode, please like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from business leaders and entrepreneurs. Have questions or want to suggest a guest? Drop a comment below!About Gerry Spitzer:Gerry Spitzer is a nationally recognized expert in ESOPs and exit planning for business owners. As co-founder of Questar Capital Partners, he helps founders design tax-efficient exit strategies that preserve legacy, reward employees, and maximize value. With 30+ years in wealth management, Gerry works with companies generating $20M–$300M in revenue, guiding them through complex succession and liquidity events.📞 Connect with Gerry✉ gerry@questarcap.com📱 850-655-6500🌐 https://www.questarcap.com/ 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerry-spitzer-cpwa%C2%AE-cepa%C2%AE-2472895/
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  Celebrating 43 Great Years at ESPN With Chris LaPlaca 24.09.2025 40min

  Join Gerry Spitzer as he sits down with Chris LaPlaca, former SVP of Corporate Communications at ESPN. Chris shares his journey from working in his family's business to becoming a key figure in sports media. Discover insights on leadership, succession planning, and the evolution of ESPN.Key Topics:Chris's early life and family business experiences Transition to ESPN and career growth Leadership traits and succession planning Challenges and successes in crisis management Personal anecdotes and lessons learned#Leadership #SportsMedia #ESPN #ChrisLaPlaca #Podcast---Connect with Us:If you enjoyed this episode, please like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from business leaders and entrepreneurs. Have questions or want to suggest a guest? Drop a comment below!About Gerry Spitzer:Gerry Spitzer is a nationally recognized expert in ESOPs and exit planning for business owners. As co-founder of Questar Capital Partners, he helps founders design tax-efficient exit strategies that preserve legacy, reward employees, and maximize value. With 30+ years in wealth management, Gerry works with companies generating $20M–$300M in revenue, guiding them through complex succession and liquidity events.📞 Connect with Gerry✉ gerry@questarcap.com📱 850-655-6500🌐 https://www.questarcap.com/ 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerry-spitzer-cpwa%C2%AE-cepa%C2%AE-2472895/
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  Unlocking Business Exits: The ESOP Advantage with Ashley Sarokhan 10.09.2025 29min

  Hang on to your bourbon, because today we are joined by Ashley Sarokhan, a seasoned ESOP advisor and managing director at Lazear Capital. Dive into a conversation that blends the art of business exits with the smoothness of bourbon.Key Topics:The growing trend of business exits among baby boomers. Ashley's journey from commercial banking to ESOP advisory. The benefits and misconceptions of ESOPs (Employee Stock Ownership Plans). New Jersey's initiative to promote employee ownership. Personal insights into Ashley's favorite drinks and her professional path.#BusinessExits #ESOP #BourbonTalk #QuestarTune in to discover how ESOPs can transform business exits and why they might be the best-kept secret in the industry. Subscribe now to not miss an episode!---Connect with Us:If you enjoyed this episode, please like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from business leaders and entrepreneurs. Have questions or want to suggest a guest? Drop a comment below!About Gerry Spitzer:Gerry Spitzer is a nationally recognized expert in ESOPs and exit planning for business owners. As co-founder of Questar Capital Partners, he helps founders design tax-efficient exit strategies that preserve legacy, reward employees, and maximize value. With 30+ years in wealth management, Gerry works with companies generating $20M–$300M in revenue, guiding them through complex succession and liquidity events.📞 Connect with Gerry✉ gerry@questarcap.com📱 850-655-6500🌐 https://www.questarcap.com/ 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerry-spitzer-cpwa%C2%AE-cepa%C2%AE-2472895/
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  The Spirit of Philadelphia: A Leadership Call from Chris Gibson 27.08.2025 41min

  Chris Gibson joins Buyouts, Business & Bourbon to share his extensive experience in leadership, both in the military and in business. He discusses his new book, 'The Spirit of Philadelphia,' which explores the importance of leadership principles and the need for civil discourse in today's society.Chris reflects on his military background, emphasizing the significance of emotional intelligence and self-awareness in developing effective leaders. He also addresses the challenges of succession planning in businesses and the importance of preparing future leaders. Additionally, Chris shares insights from his time in Congress and the necessity of listening and building trust across political divides. The conversation concludes with personal reflections on leadership and the future.Takeaways:Chris Gibson emphasizes the importance of civil discourse in leadership.The founders of America faced significant challenges in establishing the nation.Emotional intelligence is crucial for effective leadership development.Self-awareness leads to better decision-making in high-pressure situations.Succession planning is essential for the longevity of businesses.Trusting the process is vital for empowering leaders.Setting up a forcing function can enhance leader development.Listening and empathy are key traits for successful political leadership.Chris's experience in Congress taught him the value of building trust across party lines.The Spirit of Philadelphia serves as a call to recover founding principles. ---Connect with Us:If you enjoyed this episode, please like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from business leaders and entrepreneurs. Have questions or want to suggest a guest? Drop a comment below!About Gerry Spitzer:Gerry Spitzer is a nationally recognized expert in ESOPs and exit planning for business owners. As co-founder of Questar Capital Partners, he helps founders design tax-efficient exit strategies that preserve legacy, reward employees, and maximize value. With 30+ years in wealth management, Gerry works with companies generating $20M–$300M in revenue, guiding them through complex succession and liquidity events.📞 Connect with Gerry✉ gerry@questarcap.com📱 850-655-6500🌐 https://www.questarcap.com/ 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerry-spitzer-cpwa%C2%AE-cepa%C2%AE-2472895/
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  Sullivan Tire | Legacy, Loyalty & Employee Ownership 13.08.2025 35min

  Welcome to the premiere episode of Buyouts, Business and Bourbon! Host Gerry Spitzer sits down with Paul Sullivan and Joseph M. Zaccheo of Sullivan Tire & Auto, a family-founded business with a remarkable legacy in the tire and auto industry. In this episode, Paul and Joe share the fascinating history of Sullivan Tire, from its humble beginnings in 1955 to its evolution into a thriving, employee-owned company.In this episode:The inspiring story behind the founding of Sullivan Tire & Auto and the Sullivan family’s commitment to loyalty, integrity, and customer service.How Sullivan Tire transitioned to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), making every employee an owner and strengthening the company’s culture.Insights into succession planning and leadership development within a growing family business.The impact of employee ownership on retention, engagement, and company growth.The challenges and rewards of the ESOP process, and why it’s a powerful but underutilized exit strategy for business owners.Sullivan Tire’s ongoing commitment to community involvement and exemplary customer service.---Connect with Us:If you enjoyed this episode, please like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from business leaders and entrepreneurs. Have questions or want to suggest a guest? Drop a comment below!About Gerry Spitzer:Gerry Spitzer is a nationally recognized expert in ESOPs and exit planning for business owners. As co-founder of Questar Capital Partners, he helps founders design tax-efficient exit strategies that preserve legacy, reward employees, and maximize value. With 30+ years in wealth management, Gerry works with companies generating $20M–$300M in revenue, guiding them through complex succession and liquidity events.📞 Connect with Gerry✉ gerry@questarcap.com📱 850-655-6500🌐 https://www.questarcap.com/ 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerry-spitzer-cpwa%C2%AE-cepa%C2%AE-2472895/