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The M&A Mastermind Podcast

The M&A Mastermind Podcast

By: Nick Olsen
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About this listen

The M&A Mastermind Podcast is your go-to source for the latest industry trends and strategies to level up your M&A practice.

The show features thought leaders who specialize in the lower middle market space and share their experiences and expertise across key areas of execution, such as: market analysis, lead generation, deal management, strategic partnerships, buyer access and much more.

With host Nick Olsen, each episode’s ”mastermind” will share ways in which they have found success in navigating the M&A industry to best support the small-to-medium sized private business owners they focus on serving.Copyright 2023 All rights reserved.
Economics Leadership Management Management & Leadership
Episodes
  • Professional Services & the Importance of Tech & Systems - Episode 103
    Oct 2 2025

    In this episode of the M&A Mastermind podcast, Bryce Wolfe, Director of Strategic Growth at Unit 4, discusses the challenges faced by professional service organizations during mergers and acquisitions (M&A). He highlights the importance of technology integration, the need for standardized processes, and the role of ERP systems in facilitating successful acquisitions. Bryce shares insights from a recent survey indicating that a significant percentage of decision-makers feel that integrations take longer than expected, emphasizing the need for proactive preparation. He also discusses how Unit 4 helps clients prepare for acquisitions by ensuring they have the right technology and processes in place to maximize their business value.

    Key Takeaways

    • Professional services organizations are people-driven businesses.
    • Integration challenges often lead to delays in realizing acquisition value.
    • Technology should not be a roadblock during mergers and acquisitions.
    • Standardized processes are crucial for operational efficiency.
    • A single source of truth for financial data is essential.
    • Spreadsheets are commonly used but can hinder acquisition readiness.
    • Investing in scalable cloud-based systems is vital for growth.
    • Collaboration with M&A advisors can enhance client readiness.
    • Documented processes can significantly increase business value.

    About the Show

    The M&A Mastermind Podcast delivers actionable insights and proven strategies for lower middle market dealmakers. Join host Nick Olsen and top industry experts as they discuss industry intelligence, deal management, shared successes, specialized expertise, and much more. If you serve the small to medium-sized business owner, this show will offer you tactics and insights you can use and implement, now, to become a master in M&A.

    Tune in Every Week

    Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@UCl0qSCwwZLyZxY7RnqNghiw

    Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-m-a-mastermind-podcast/id1726394585

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4fpVjEXbJ0FXKMgEK0m7QQ

    Find all our episodes at https://cornerstoneia.com/podcast/

    Keywords

    M&A, professional services, integration, technology, Unit 4, ERP, acquisition, business strategy, operational efficiency, service-based organizations

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    28 mins
  • Managing Risk Allocation in M&A Transactions - Episode 102
    Sep 25 2025

    In this episode of the M&A Mastermind podcast, host Nick Olsen interviews Terry Gerbers, a seasoned M&A attorney with over 30 years of experience. They discuss the importance of having a dedicated M&A attorney, the role of working capital in transactions, and the complexities surrounding intellectual property. Terry shares insights on how to choose the right M&A attorney, the collaboration between attorneys and M&A advisors, and strategies for managing risk in transactions. The conversation emphasizes the need for expertise in M&A to ensure successful outcomes for both buyers and sellers.

    Key Takeaways

    • M&A transactions should be win-win for both parties.
    • Experience in M&A is crucial for attorneys.
    • Working capital is essential for business valuation.
    • Proper management of working capital can maximize sale price.
    • Intellectual property ownership is critical in M&A deals.
    • Sellers must ensure they own their IP before selling.
    • Collaboration between M&A advisors and attorneys is vital.
    • Choosing the right attorney can prevent costly mistakes.
    • Risk allocation is key in M&A negotiations.
    • Transparency in disclosures can prevent post-closing issues.

    About the Show

    The M&A Mastermind Podcast delivers actionable insights and proven strategies for lower middle market dealmakers. Join host Nick Olsen and top industry experts as they discuss industry intelligence, deal management, shared successes, specialized expertise, and much more. If you serve the small to medium-sized business owner, this show will offer you tactics and insights you can use and implement, now, to become a master in M&A.

    Tune in Every Week

    Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@UCl0qSCwwZLyZxY7RnqNghiw

    Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-m-a-mastermind-podcast/id1726394585

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4fpVjEXbJ0FXKMgEK0m7QQ

    Find all our episodes at https://cornerstoneia.com/podcast/

    Keywords

    M&A, mergers and acquisitions, M&A attorney, working capital, intellectual property, risk allocation, business transactions, legal expertise, M&A advisor, deal structure

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    37 mins
  • Talent Development in M&A - Episode 101
    Sep 18 2025

    In this episode of the M&A Mastermind podcast, Craig Castelli discusses the critical role of talent in the success of lower middle market M&A firms. He shares insights on the challenges of attracting and retaining talent, the qualities that define successful team members, and the importance of investing in long-term talent development.

    Craig emphasizes the need for a balanced approach in hiring, focusing on both experienced professionals and younger talent. He also highlights the significance of non-financial factors in employee retention and the impact of the pandemic on work culture. The conversation concludes with advice for investment bankers on building a strong team and the importance of authenticity in client relationships.

    Key Takeaways

    • Talent is the backbone of M&A success.

    • Investing in talent can yield long-term benefits.

    • A mix of experience and fresh perspectives is essential.

    • Critical thinking is vital in M&A negotiations.

    • Creating a supportive culture enhances employee retention.

    • Flexibility in work arrangements can improve productivity.

    • Empowering junior members fosters growth and confidence.

    • Long-term employees contribute to organizational stability.

    • Authenticity builds trust with clients.

    • Continuous learning is necessary in a changing industry.

    Keywords

    M&A, talent development, investment banking, team building, business success, hiring strategies, employee retention, career growth, leadership, organizational culture

    Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@UCl0qSCwwZLyZxY7RnqNghiw

    Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-m-a-mastermind-podcast/id1726394585

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4fpVjEXbJ0FXKMgEK0m7QQ

    Find all of our episodes at https://cornerstoneia.com/podcast/

    Show More Show Less
    40 mins
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