In this episode of Poised for Exit, we sit down with Liz Ennenga, CEO and Founder of Quad E Companies, Inc. to explore her inspiring transition from the corporate world to becoming a 100% shareholder of her own contracting firm.

Liz shares how she left a successful corporate career at Target to launch Quad E, an excavation company focused on small to medium-sized commercial and government projects, and what she’s learned building a nimble, union-based team in a male-dominated industry. She and Julie dive into the importance of mentorship, storytelling, and relationship-building when growing a business. Plus, they discuss the role that confidence and trust play in leadership and compensation (especially for women founders).

You’ll hear Liz’s philosophy on smart, efficient growth, how she identifies ideal general contractor partners, and why she’s embracing exit planning early after reading Julie’s book. From building scalable systems to attending Julie's upcoming workshop on the 24th, Liz is laying the groundwork now to ensure Quad E can continue to grow and succeed well into the future.

Contact Liz at [email protected]
Connect with Liz here
Find Quad E Companies, Inc. here

Connect with Julie Keyes, Keyestrategies LLC
Founder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor

In this episode of Poised for Exit, we sit down with Erica Haataja, owner of Nordic Shine LLC to uncover how she and her husband built a refined construction-site cleaning business that thrives on purposeful systems and real connection.

Erica breaks down Nordic Shine’s standout services - whether it’s post-construction clean-ups for commercial sites or recurring maintenance plans. She highlights their edge: genuine communication, detail-oriented work, and a values-driven approach to hiring that ensures trust and performance.

As a female entrepreneur in a male-dominated field, Erica shares how involvement with the Association of Women Contractors helped her overcome imposter syndrome and affirm her worth - including learning to say “no” when a job doesn’t align with her standards.

Looking ahead, Erica outlines a strategic growth vision spanning the next three to five years: cultivating steady recurring contracts in multi-unit and commercial spaces, building a pipeline of high-caliber cleaners, and systemizing operations with checklists and streamlined workflows.

Her psychology background also plays a powerful role in her leadership. She uses emotional intelligence and humor to connect with crews, defuse tension on-site, and handle tough moments with poise and professionalism.

This episode gave you a true look behind the scenes of starting and scaling a business - proof that ambition, systems, and heart make all the difference.

Contact Erica at [email protected]

Connect with Erica here

Find Nordic Shine, LLC here

Connect with Julie Keyes, Keyestrategies LLC
Founder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor

In this episode of Poised for Exit, we sit down with Matt Silasiri, Vice President of Business Development at True North M&A, to talk all about the upcoming 3rd Annual M&A Summit, happening September 17th at the JW Marriott at Mall of America in Bloomington, MN.

This exclusive event is designed for business owners, advisors, and industry professionals who want to deepen their understanding of the mergers and acquisitions process - whether they're planning to sell, thinking about succession, or exploring growth through acquisition.

Matt and Julie walk through the full agenda, which includes expert panels, a live valuation case study, a buy-side and sell-side panel with real clients, and an economic update from the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce. One of the most anticipated parts of the event is the keynote presentation by David Horsager, CEO of the Trust Edge Leadership Institute. Horsager’s talk will dive into the critical role trust plays in M&A transactions and business leadership - and all attendees will receive a copy of his new book.

Beyond the programming, this event is also about building connections. With dedicated networking opportunities, reserved table options, and a who's who of Minnesota’s business community in attendance, it’s a day built for both education and strategic relationship-building.

Julie shares her experience attending the event in prior years and why she believes it’s a must-attend for business owners at any stage. Whether you’re just starting to think about an exit or actively preparing for one, this event is one that will help you get clear on your next steps and the value of being proactive.

Contact Matt at [email protected]

Connect with Matt here

Find True North M&A here

Learn more about the M&A Summit Event here

Connect with Julie Keyes, Keyestrategies LLC
Founder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor

In this episode of Poised for Exit, we sit down with Shalin Johnson, Vice President of Business Insurance at Marsh McLennan Agency, to talk about how risk management can increase company value and support smoother business transitions.

With 25 years of experience and a focus on manufacturing clients, Shalin shares why risk management is more than just insurance. He walks us through how strong risk platforms not only reduce liability but also improve employee morale, attract buyers, and prevent last-minute surprises during M&A deals. One example highlights how a single overlooked risk could derail a sale and how to avoid it.

We also discuss the evolving insurance needs of growing companies, especially as they adopt new technologies. Shaylin breaks down the importance of directors and officers insurance, cyber coverage, and staying proactive as risks shift.

If you’re thinking about scaling, selling, or just want more peace of mind, this episode is full of practical insight to help you strengthen your business foundation and protect your long-term goals.

Find Shalin here or email [email protected]

Find Marsh McLennan Agency here

Connect with Julie Keyes, Keyestrategies LLC
Founder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor

In this episode of Poised for Exit, we sat down with John Schwalbach, partner and financial advisor at Freedom Financial Partners, to talk about how financial planning plays a critical role in the success of any business exit.

John brings a unique perspective as both a financial expert and entrepreneur. He shared stories from his work with business owners and broke down the biggest financial planning mistakes owners make when preparing for a sale. One client example showed how an $18 million offer quickly became $11 million after taxes, debt, and fees - an eye-opener for anyone counting on a business sale to fund their future.

We walked through John’s signature three-meeting process, which helps owners and their spouses align on personal goals, financial needs, and life after exit. He also introduced the concept of the “freedom score” the amount of money needed to live your ideal life - and how to calculate and close that gap.

From building a financial plan that includes the value of your business to understanding your post-exit lifestyle needs, this episode is filled with actionable insight for business owners at every stage. If you think it’s too early to start planning your exit, think again -this conversation shows why early planning is smart business.

Find John here
Find Freedom Financial Partners here
Take the business owner readiness assessment here
Use the free valuation tool here

Connect with Julie Keyes, Keyestrategies LLC
Founder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor

In this week’s episode of Poised for Exit, we sit down with Jacob Petersen, a board-certified M&A intermediary who breaks down what really makes a business attractive to buyers.

Jacob shares his journey from accounting to business brokerage and explains how he helps privately held business owners understand and increase the value of their companies.

The conversation explores key valuation concepts like Seller’s Discretionary Earnings (SDE) and EBITDA, with Jacob explaining how each is used and what they reveal about a company’s true cash flow. He also clears up common misconceptions about intangible assets and why strong documentation is essential.

Jacob highlights the importance of clean financials, realistic forecasting, and reducing owner dependency. He shares real-life success stories, including one where a business with minimal hard assets sold for over 2.5 million thanks to strong systems and diverse customers.

If you are a business owner thinking about selling or just want to increase your company’s value, this episode offers practical advice and powerful takeaways to help you build a more sellable business.

Find Jacob here

Connect with Julie Keyes, Keyestrategies LLC
Founder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor

Some of the most successful businesses start with a simple idea and a whole lot of determination.

In this week’s episode of Poised For Exit, we sit down with Esme Miranda, founder of a fast-growing cleaning company, Squeaky Services. Esme shares how a small effort to support her family during the pandemic turned into a full-scale operation offering commercial cleaning, carpet care, painting, and more. The business has grown with a clear focus on service, loyalty, and smart strategy.

Esme explains how she went from cleaning homes herself to building and managing a team, with an emphasis on employee retention through perks and a referral incentive program. She also talks about the importance of hiring the right office manager with EOS experience to support the company’s next phase of growth.

Her story offers valuable insight into scaling a service-based business while staying true to core values, and why pushing past fear is often the first step to building something great.

The conversation also highlights the importance of surrounding yourself with a strong support system. Esme discusses how industry groups, networking opportunities, and mentorship have played a critical role in her journey, helping her stay focused, make smart decisions, and grow with confidence.

Her story is a reminder that while business growth takes strategy, lasting success is built through connection, community, and the courage to keep going.

Find Esme Miranda here

Learn more about Squeaky Services here

Connect with Julie Keyes, Keyestrategies LLC
Founder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor

As co-owner of Hi Tempo Sports and founder of the Foot Lab, Brad Nelson brings over four decades of entrepreneurial experience rooted in grit, persistence, and a deep commitment to customer well-being. From starting out in ski boot fitting to becoming a certified pedorthist, Brad has built a business legacy grounded in service and innovation.

In this episode, Brad sits down with Julie to share the full arc of his journey, from acquiring Hi Tempo in 1978 to growing it into a regional powerhouse and thoughtfully transitioning ownership to the next generation of leadership. With humor and humility, Brad reflects on the lessons he learned the hard way, the power of mentorship, and how his background in foot health became a life-changing service for thousands.

The conversation explores the emotional and strategic realities of succession planning, the challenges of educating young athletes on long-term injury prevention, and how the outdoor recreation industry has shifted in the wake of COVID. Brad also discusses why every owner needs to start planning their exit far earlier than they think.

Whether you're facing a transition or just getting started, this episode offers hard-earned wisdom and encouragement for business owners at every stage.

Learn more about Hi Tempo here: https://www.hitempo.com/
Learn more about the Footlab here:https://www.hitempo.com/foot-lab/

Connect with Julie Keyes, Keyestrategies LLC
Founder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor

As Managing Broker at VR Business Brokers of the Twin Cities and a Certified Business Appraiser, Young Bebus brings a rare mix of financial expertise, strategic insight, and deep empathy to her work with founders. After immigrating from South Korea and reinventing her career more than once, she now helps business owners make confident, well-informed decisions during one of the most pivotal chapters of their lives.

Selling a business isn’t just a financial decision - it’s an emotional one. Many owners hesitate to engage an M&A advisor out of fear: fear of losing control, fear of hidden agendas, or fear of being misunderstood. In this episode, Young addresses those concerns head-on and explains how thoughtful, trust-based advisory can ease the emotional burden and maximize outcomes.

The conversation explores real-world examples, including a complex deal that nearly unraveled - and what saved it. Listeners will also learn the one action every business owner should take now to protect value and lay the groundwork for a future sale, even if that sale is still years away.

Don’t miss Young’s upcoming event: the Sell Well Summit on September 24, 2025, at the Graham Center of the Better Business Bureau. This all-day event is designed for business owners who want to build a transition plan, understand valuation, and position themselves for a profitable, tax-smart sale!

To learn more or book a consultation, visit www.VRTwinCities.com, email [email protected], or connect with Young on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/vrtwincities

Connect with Julie Keyes, Keyestrategies LLC
Founder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor

Succession in a family business isn’t just about passing the torch. It’s about building the right foundation to support the next generation and protect the legacy for years to come. In this episode, Dr. Jeremy Lurey, Founder and CEO of Family Legacy 1st, returns to the show to share what actually works when it comes to family business transitions.

As the founder of Family Legacy 1st, Jeremy has spent over two decades helping multigenerational businesses put strong governance in place, develop leadership teams, and plan for succession. He and Julie discuss real-world cases, including international families preparing third-generation members to become thoughtful shareholders, and Midwest businesses navigating fairness between siblings and non-family executives.

Jeremy explains why professionalizing a family business can help protect both relationships and results. He shares how families are using charters, annual meetings, and defined leadership roles to create clarity. He also highlights the value of non-family leadership and how tools like insurance and non-equity compensation can bring stability during transition.

They also explore current trends in family business exits, from shifting valuations to ownership challenges. Jeremy stresses the emotional side of succession and the importance of patient, honest conversations throughout the process.

This is a valuable listen for anyone working in or with family-run businesses!

Find Jeremy here

Learn more about Family Legacy 1st here

Connect with Julie Keyes, Keyestrategies LLC
Founder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor