In this episode, we sit down with William Kellner, a former college basketball coach turned commercial litigator and M&A deal attorney.

Will brings a rare blend of courtroom experience, in-house legal strategy, and business-owner empathy. He shares the most overlooked threats in deal execution, what litigators know about deal structures gone wrong, and how his background in coaching shaped his approach to legal counsel.

This episode is essential for dealmakers, business owners, and attorneys who want more than boilerplate legalese, they want strategic clarity.

What You’ll Learn:

• The unexpected deal pitfalls litigators see that others miss
• How to protect sellers from unserious buyers
• Why early legal involvement leads to smoother exits
• Red flags in contract language and buyer behavior
• What it takes to build trust across the negotiating table

Whether you’re prepping your business for a future sale or actively evaluating offers, this conversation will help you avoid self inflicted wounds and structure deals that hold up under pressure.

Guest Info:

Founder, Kellner Law Firm

William Kellner: LinkedIn

Location: Lafayette, Louisiana

Connect with the Hosts & The Deal Podcast:

Joshua Wilson – LinkedIn

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@dealpodcast

Website – https://www.thedealpodcast.com