Podcast: Acquiring Minds (LS 49 · TOP 0.5% what is this?)
Episode: Exiting for Millions vs. Long-Term Hold
Pub date: 2026-02-16

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Don Grigg reflects on the different outcomes for 2 businesses he bought in his 30s, one of which became his life's work.

Register for the webinar: 

• Red Flags That Kill or Reshape Deals - Feb 19th - https://bit.ly/468vw6W

Topics in Don’s interview:

• Discovering his passion for manufacturing
• Searching for “small, broken companies” to acquire
• Closing on 2 businesses within 6 months
• How plastics recycling works
• Scaling his plastics recycling business
• Private equity is a poor fit for small business 
• Exiting his business felt like losing family
• His son and daughter’s acquisition
• Value of family businesses
• Entrepreneurship through acquisition as your life’s work

References and how to contact Don:

• LinkedIn
• Native Watercraft
• Bonafide Kayaks 
• Enough by John C. Bogle

Get a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value):

• Book a call with Tim or [email protected] and mention Acquiring Minds

Download the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR:

• From this page or contact [email protected]

Get complimentary due diligence on your acquisition's insurance & benefits program:

• Oberle Risk Strategies - Search Fund Team

Connect with Acquiring Minds:

• See past + future interviews on the YouTube channel
• Connect with host Will Smith on LinkedIn
• Follow Will on Twitter

Edited by Anton Rohozov
Produced by Pam Cameron

The podcast and artwork embedded on this page are from Will Smith, which is the property of its owner and not affiliated with or endorsed by Listen Notes, Inc.