IBBA Insights

IBBA top dealmaker Trent Lee reveals the framework he uses to streamline vetting, educate clients, and keep deals moving. Tune in for practical insights on using technology and personal connection together to build trust, save time, and grow your practice.

Hear from a founder of her firsthand experience in selling a multi-decade established branding, strategy and positioning firm.

Join the IBBA for an important discussion on how the government shutdown is affecting SBA lending, buyers, and sellers. Our expert panel will provide real-time insights into what’s happening across the lending landscape and what brokers can do to keep transactions moving forward during this disruption.

Hear directly from John Randall, Managing Director, Small Business Banking at Live Oak Bank, and John Wahl, Director, Small Business Banking at Live Oak Bank, as they share updates on SBA processing, deal flow challenges, and what steps lenders are taking to support borrowers.

Moderated by Cress Diglio, CBI, M&AMI, IBBA Past Chair, this session will help brokers understand the current environment, communicate effectively with clients and lenders, and develop practical strategies to maintain deal momentum.

New SBA reforms could make transactions between $5–12 million more achievable. In this episode, Steve Mariani breaks down what you need to know.

Ever wish you could hear the whole story behind a business sale? In this episode, we sit down with both the buyer and seller involved in a recent business sale as they reflect on their experience working with a broker. Listen to what went well, what surprised them, and why they believe a business broker was essential to a successful outcome.

Tune in to Daymond John’s keynote from the 2025 IBBA Conference in Orlando, Florida. Drawing on 25 years of experience, Daymond shares the highs and lows of his entrepreneurial journey and the mindset shifts that made the difference. Learn his proven approach to business and life through the fundamental principles he calls his “S.H.A.R.K. Points.”

Are you a business owner, buyer, or broker navigating the complexities of business transactions? In the first of this two-part series, we’re joined by J.C. Maldonado as we dive into the critical insights you need to maximize value and minimize risk during a sale. Listen in to unpack valuation truths, the dangers of cutting corners, the importance of transparency, and more!

This conversation is packed with actionable advice, real-world scenarios, and expert perspectives to help you see the bigger picture in dealmaking. Listen now!

In “IBBA Insights Perspectives on Buying and Selling Businesses,” Mike Finger discusses the importance of preparing small businesses for sale and why some businesses may not be sellable. Finger, who has personal experience with the challenges of selling a business, emphasizes the significance of business owners having ongoing conversations with brokers and focusing on making their businesses attractive to buyers. He stresses the importance of documenting results, building trust with brokers, and being prepared to sell at any time. Finger also shares stories of successful sales and the importance of professional representation, including lawyers, accountants, and business brokers. Overall, Finger encourages business owners to take a proactive approach to selling their businesses and to seek out the advice and expertise of industry professionals.

In the “IBBA Insights: Donatella Arpaia,” a celebrity chef is seen on Iron Chef America, Guy Fieri’s Tournament of Champions, and many more. Donatella Arpaia shares her inspiring journey from growing up in the restaurant business to defying her parents’ expectations and building a successful career.

Born to immigrant parents, Arpaia was initially discouraged from entering the industry but followed her passion despite facing challenges as a young, beautiful former attorney in a male-dominated field. Her success came from her deep understanding of the restaurant business, her willingness to be different, and her thick skin, allowing her to overcome criticism and obstacles.

Arpaia discusses her experiences transitioning from a local neighborhood favorite to a renowned figure in the food industry, the importance of family meals, and the challenges of being edited for television. She also reflects on the role of women in business, particularly in the male-dominated industry of business brokers, and the importance of women supporting each other.

Arpaia emphasizes the importance of prioritizing and focusing on what’s important in life and the challenges facing the restaurant industry, including the rising cost of goods, digital marketing, and labor shortages. Throughout the interview, Arpaia shares her experiences, insights, and passion for the culinary industry.

In this episode of IBBA Insights, the host discusses how the 2024 U.S. election cycle could impact businesses with Emmy award-winning journalist Tim Boyum. The conversation explores various business-related concerns such as inflation, interest rates, taxes, immigration, energy costs, and consumer confidence. Tim also shares insights on his career in political journalism and the role media plays in shaping public perception. The discussion emphasizes the importance of preparing for potential economic shifts post-election and offers advice for business owners to navigate the uncertainties in this politically charged climate.