The SMB Investor

How can investors avoid costly mistakes when buying a small business?

In this episode, Elliott Holland (Founder of Guardian Due Diligence) joins Sean Smith to break down the importance of Quality of Earnings (QOE) in small and mid-sized business acquisitions. From identifying hidden risks to avoiding financial fraud, Elliott shares his expertise in helping buyers make informed decisions and minimize risks in high-stakes transactions.

If you're exploring SMB acquisitions, this episode is a must-listen.

What helps small business owners thrive in such a challenging ecosystem?

In this episode, Rand Larson (Founder of SMB Community) joins Sean Smith to share his experience in building support networks for entrepreneurs in the small business acquisition space. From the loneliness of business ownership to the importance of a smooth transition with sellers, we explore key challenges and the solutions that have helped hundreds of operators succeed.

Learn how the right connections can make the difference between success and failure in the SMB ecosystem.

Why do some search funds fail while others thrive?

In this episode, Jason Ehrlich (Managing Partner at Fruition Capital) joins Sean Smith to break down the key differences between self-funded searchers, independent sponsors, and traditional search funds.

Learn what makes a successful SMB investor and how to avoid common pitfalls in small business acquisitions.

In this conversation, Sean Smith and Grant Hensel discuss the intricacies of small business investing, focusing on the value of small businesses, the importance of empathy in investing, and the key qualities to look for in searchers. 

They explore the challenges of investment decision-making, risk management, and the structuring of deals, including the differences between independent sponsors and self-funded searches.

The discussion emphasizes the significance of trust, grit, and emotional management in achieving success in the small business investment landscape.