In this episode of the Grappling Growth Podcast, Joe sits down with Mark Fleming, CFA, FRM — an elite financial strategist, seasoned investor, and the mind behind multiple successful business acquisitions.

Mark pulls back the curtain on how small business buyers can realistically acquire, scale, and exit companies worth $5M+, even without deep pockets or decades of experience.

Inside this episode, Mark shares:

🔹 The exact framework he uses to evaluate acquisition targets🔹 How to structure deals creatively (even when capital is limited)🔹 The hidden red flags most first-time buyers never see🔹 Why risk management matters more than revenue🔹 What separates successful operators from armchair entrepreneurs🔹 The mindset shift you must adopt before buying your first business

Mark’s journey is packed with discipline, strategic thinking, and hard-earned wisdom — shaped by years in finance, risk management, and real-world dealmaking.

If you’ve ever considered acquiring a business, scaling a portfolio, or learning how real operators think, this is a masterclass you won’t want to miss.

Tune in and take notes. This is the $5M Acquisition Playbook—broken down step by step.

EP Guest: Mark Fleming
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mflemingcfa/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@owneractions
Website: http://www.owneractions.com