Most founders think selling a business is about revenue, timing, or luck, but buyers don’t pay top dollar for “busy.” They pay for a transferable business with predictable systems, leadership depth, and enterprise value that can thrive without the owner. 

In this E Forge Podcast episode, Cory Long sits down with Brian Franco (founder & Managing Partner of Meritage Partners. known as “the M&A guy”) to break down exit planning, business valuation, and what it really takes to engineer a high-value sale. If you’re an overwhelmed operator, owner-operator, agency owner, or service business founder who wants more freedom now and a strong exit later, this conversation is your roadmap. You’ll learn how buyers underwrite risk, why recurring revenue and long-term client agreements increase valuation, and how to stop building a founder-dependent company. 

Whether your goal is an acquisition, merger, private equity deal, family transfer, or simply building a company that runs without you, this episode will help you build a business that becomes a real asset, one that creates options, leverage, and generational wealth.

Highlights:

→ You’ll learn why “transferability” matters more than hustle and how to shift from an operator mindset to an owner mindset by decentralizing decisions, documenting SOPs, and building leaders who solve problems without you. 

→ Brian explains how predictable revenue (MRR/ARR, maintenance plans, long-term contracts) changes how investors value your business and why many companies look strong until the “silent emergency” hits: founder exhaustion, decision bottlenecks, and no succession plan. 

→ You’ll also hear how buyers segment deals by profit ranges (EBITDA) and what that means for who can buy you. 

→ Finally, you’ll get a practical method to start removing yourself from the business, starting with the five decisions only you make, and turning your company into an asset buyers will actually pay for.

Want to learn more about Cory Long? Check out the links below.

Ai Authority Engine https://invisibletoinvinciblechallenge.com/aiengine

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@therealcorylong

Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/e-forge-with-cory-long/id1823417933

Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/4aZD9YaIr5OttNLce5iGOm?si=7149ceb9ed9c4819

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/therealcorylong/

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/therealcorylongEforge/

Disclaimer - 

This video is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice. Always consult with a licensed tax professional or financial advisor to discuss your specific situation.