In this special episode, you're invited to listen in on a live panel from one of Jonathan Jay's recent Mastermind events — featuring experienced Inner Circle members who have collectively bought dozens of businesses.

This is real talk from real dealmakers.

They've battled through first deals, discovered unexpected sectors, failed forward, negotiated smart structures — and now they're here to share what actually works.

Expect candid insights, live questions from the audience, and stories that will challenge the way you think about dealmaking.

In this panel episode, you'll hear:

✅ Why some people close deals after 9 letters — and others need 9,000

✅ The Domino's Pizza flyer analogy that explains seller timing

✅ How one letter arriving on a seller's birthday triggered a deal

✅ What not to do if you want to avoid buying yourself a job

✅ Why having a "sector" might not matter as much as you think

✅ The power of being the deal maker not the operator

✅ How one member grew to £20M in revenue through targeted acquisitions

✅ The truth about tax structures, holding companies and when to keep it simple

✅ The hidden benefits of buying a business — including instant access to teams, clients, and new energy

You'll also learn what separates the dabblers from the doers — and why mindset, patience, and smart support systems make all the difference.

Whether you're planning your first deal or your next ten, this behind-the-scenes panel offers valuable takeaways, practical strategies, and straight-talking wisdom.

Listen now and learn what experienced dealmakers wish they'd known at the start.

If you're serious about buying a business – and avoiding the mistakes Jonathan outlines – book a free Clarity Call with one of his team:

👉 dealmakers.co.uk/clarity

You'll get 15 minutes of expert insight to help you decide which next step is right for you – whether that's attending a Deal Club evening, joining the 3-day Foundation Programme, or stepping straight into the Mastermind.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review. It helps more future dealmakers discover the show – and succeed in their first business acquisition.

In the second part of our special two-part highlights series, Jonathan Jay dives into more of the most impactful, practical, and inspiring moments from the 2025 season of Business Buying Strategies.

Whether you're brand new to acquisitions or have a few deals under your belt, this curated episode brings together essential wisdom from trusted voices in the Dealmakers community.

1. The Legal Pitfalls First-Time Buyers Must Avoid

Top M&A lawyer John Andrews shares critical advice for getting your structure right from day one.

You'll learn:

• Why a shareholders' agreement is vital — and when to draft one
• How share classes, company articles, and director agreements protect you long term
• What to expect (and budget) for legal fees
• How to choose the right lawyer — and why experience matters more than cost

2. The Real Skills Behind Closing a Deal

Master negotiator Martin, a Dealmakers Circle member, delivers a no-nonsense mindset and negotiation masterclass.

He breaks down:

• Why confidence (not cash) is your most powerful asset
• How to handle questions you don't know the answer to — without losing credibility
• What to say when a seller gives you an unrealistic price
• How deal fees, PGs, and over-leverage can ruin a good deal — and how to protect yourself

3. Coffee with Jonathan – Real Q&A with Aspiring Buyers

Join Jonathan as he answers live questions from attendees during one of his informal "Coffee Morning" Zooms.

Topics include:

• How to set up the right holding company and deal structure
• Why boards of directors are unnecessary distractions for most first-time buyers
• The truth about debt, due diligence, and using ChatGPT for business advice
• How to protect your existing businesses when you start acquiring others

4. Jonathan's Live Seminar – No Money Down… Explained

Get an insider listen to a live seminar where Jonathan walks business owners through:

• How to buy a profitable business without risking personal funds
• The difference between deal flow and deal completion
• How to use real estate to complement your acquisition strategy
• The 36-month "Buy, Build, Exit" roadmap — and why it starts now

You'll also hear Jonathan's own backstory — including the deal that changed his life, the competitor he bought (and shut down), and what buying 48 businesses during a pandemic really taught him.

🎧 Whether you're looking for clarity, inspiration, or a practical edge — this episode is packed with the real-world knowledge you need to succeed.

If you're serious about buying a business – and avoiding the mistakes Jonathan outlines – book a free Clarity Call with one of his team:

👉 dealmakers.co.uk/clarity

You'll get 15 minutes of expert insight to help you decide which next step is right for you – whether that's attending a Deal Club evening, joining the 3-day Foundation Programme, or stepping straight into the Mastermind.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review. It helps more future dealmakers discover the show – and succeed in their first business acquisition.