Episodios

  • E62: Middle Market M&A: How Founders Maximize Exit Value with Tim Mueller

    E62: Middle Market M&A: How Founders Maximize Exit Value with Tim Mueller
    Nov 19 2025
    Discover how Middle Market M&A really works and what founders must do to maximize exit value in the $5M–$40M lower middle market. In this episode, M&A advisor Tim Mueller of IT ExchangeNet breaks down how private equity, search funds, and strategic buyers evaluate companies and negotiate deals. You’ll learn how to prepare for a sale, avoid earn-out pitfalls, and build a business that attracts top-tier buyers. We also explore the psychology of selling a founder-led company and the overlooked strategies that create generational wealth. Perfect for investors, founders, and anyone studying private equity deal flow.About Our Guest: Tim Mueller, President and Co-Founder at IT ExchangeNet Tim Mueller is President and Co-Founder of IT ExchangeNet, driving the firm's strategic growth. Previously, he served as CEO of Phylogy, a Silicon Valley startup that achieved a spot on the Inc. 500 list and was acquired by Actelis Networks in 2011. Earlier, Tim co-founded Vantage One Communications, pioneering internet-based communications, earning Entrepreneur of the Year honors, and eventually selling the company in 1999. Between these ventures, he was Deputy Mayor and Chief Development Officer for Cleveland, Ohio, overseeing over $1 billion in regional development. A lifelong musician, Tim has served on the boards of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (as Technology Committee Chair), DigitalC, and Union Home Mortgage. He holds a Bachelor's degree from the University of Dayton.Connect with Tim Mueller on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timothysmueller/Top TakeawaysThe Lower Mid-Market Is Ripe for Opportunity: Most U.S. businesses fall between $5M–$40M in value, yet they remain underserved by traditional investment banks—creating inefficiencies and opportunities for investors, search funds, and strategic buyers.Professional Buyers Always Have the Advantage: Unless You Level the Playing Field: Private equity, family offices, and search funds negotiate deals every day. Founders rarely do. A disciplined sell-side process helps sellers increase valuation, avoid traps, and negotiate from a position of strength.Selling a Business Is Highly Emotional: And Emotion Kills Deals: A third-party advisor protects sellers from: Overvaluing the business; Getting manipulated by seasoned buyers; Making emotional decisions' Damaging relationships needed post-closingEarn-Outs Are the #1 Source of Post-Closing Litigation: Only a transaction-specialist attorney (not a general business lawyer) can draft earn-out language that prevents ambiguity—and lawsuits.Buyer Type Determines the Seller’s Future Role: Matching the founder’s goals to the correct buyer type is critical.Private Equity: May bolt on or expand the company, often bringing in new leadership.Search Funds: Buyers want to run the business themselves.Strategics: Look for synergies and integration potential.Transparency Prevents Deal Failure: Tim’s rule: “Expectations unarticulated is disappointment guaranteed.” This applies to valuation, roles, earn-outs, and long-term plans.Entrepreneurs and Musicians Share DNA: Creativity, improvisation, resilience are themes in Tim’s unique journey (tech exits + Rock & Roll Hall of Fame board) highlights the parallel between entrepreneurship and artistry.Notable Quotes“Ninety percent of U.S. businesses fall in the lower mid-market. They’re underserved—and full of opportunity.”“A DIY business sale is where founders get their clock cleaned. Professional buyers negotiate for a living.”“Selling a company is emotional—it’s like selling a family member. A third-party adds the neutrality you need.”“Earn-outs are fraught with peril. Ambiguity leads straight to litigation.”“Expectations unarticulated is disappointment guaranteed.”“Our job is to unlock the value owners spent decades building—and help them exhale for the first time in years.”“There are direct parallels between musicians and entrepreneurs. Both spend their lives riffing.”Chapters00:00 — Welcome to Alt Investing Made Easy00:40 — Meet Tim Mueller: 26 Years in Lower Mid-Market M&A01:07 — What IT ExchangeNet Does & Who They Serve01:35 — Why the $5M–$40M Market Is Underserved04:06 — The Emotional Side of Selling Your Company07:01 — Why DIY M&A Fails & Third-Party Advisors Raise Valuations08:26 — Filtering Qualified Buyers & Avoiding Tire Kickers10:41 — Deal Drama: Cold Feet, Aspirational Valuations & Late-Stage Surprises11:39 — Earn-Out Risks & Why Transaction Attorneys Matter16:28 — Private Equity vs Search Funds: Which Buyer Fits You?19:03 — Expectations & Deal Transparency: The Critical Rule21:11 — Tim’s Entrepreneurial Journey & Tech Exits23:36 — Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Board Experience25:56 — Why Knowledge Sharing Matters (and Why AIM Easy Exists)CreditsSponsored by Real Advisers Capital, Austin, TexasIf you are interested in being a guest, please email us.Podcast Production by Red Sun Creative, Austin, ...
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    30 m
  • #61 Inside Ballard Global’s Private Credit Investing Strategy

    #61 Inside Ballard Global’s Private Credit Investing Strategy
    Nov 12 2025
    Private credit doesn’t have to be mysterious—or risky. In this episode of Alt Investing Made Easy, hosts Sarah Florer and Roland Wiederaenders sit down with Mike Barker and Rick Parmiter of Ballard Global to uncover how private credit delivers consistent returns without the volatility of public markets. Learn how Ballard’s values-driven model, diversified sectors—from real estate and agribusiness to AI technology and consumer lending—and personal approach to investor relations have built a 24-year record of zero capital losses.About Our Guest: Rick Parmiter, Managing Director at Ballard GlobalRick Parmiter is a seasoned technology executive and business strategist with deep expertise in enterprise software, cloud solutions, and digital transformation. Over the course of his career, he has held leadership roles driving growth, innovation, and operational excellence across global organizations, blending technical acumen with a sharp focus on customer success. Parmiter is recognized for building high-performing teams, scaling complex initiatives, and aligning technology investments with measurable business outcomes. His work reflects a passion for leveraging emerging technologies to create sustainable value and competitive advantage.Connect with Rick Parmiter on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rickparmiter/ About Our Guest: Mike Barker, Vice President of Investor Relations at Ballard GlobalMike Barker is Vice President of Investor Relations at Ballard Global, where he helps accredited investors build tax-efficient wealth, generate passive income, and protect capital through private market diversification. With over two decades of experience spanning investor relations, enterprise sales, and leadership roles, he has developed a reputation for guiding clients toward strategies that maximize growth while mitigating risk. Previously, Barker held senior account executive positions in technology and communications, as well as serving in pastoral leadership, giving him a unique blend of financial acumen and people-centered insight. Based in Miami, he combines strategic rigor with a passion for educating investors through thought leadership and practical frameworksConnect with Mike Barker on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikejamesbarker/ Top TakeawaysPrivate Credit = Predictable Yield: Learn how Ballard Global delivers fixed-rate returns between 9.5–13% through secured private lending.24 Years, Zero Capital Losses: A record that proves the power of disciplined, values-based investing.Diversified by Design: Exposure across real estate, agribusiness, lending, and AI to balance risk and reward.The Flex Fund Advantage: Investors choose term lengths (1–7 years) and payout frequency for personalized yield strategies.Trust as a Financial Asset: Why transparency and communication are the real differentiators in private markets.Values-Based Operations: “Do what you say you’re going to do” isn’t a slogan—it’s Ballard’s core operating principle.The Rise of Private Credit: How regulatory changes could open 401(k) and institutional capital to this growing sector.Notable Quotes“Do what you say you’re going to do — that’s our prime directive.” – Rick Parmiter“Private credit lets investors earn fixed returns while helping real companies grow.” – Mike Barker“Twenty-four years, zero capital losses — that consistency builds trust.” – Sarah Florer“We’re not chasing the next deal; we’re deepening relationships in four proven sectors.” – Rick Parmiter“Integrity is the best investment strategy.” – Roland WiederaendersChapters00:00 – Intro: Welcome and guest introductions01:00 – Origins of Ballard Global: Jeff Ballard’s path from real estate to diversified private markets04:00 – Building the Four Sectors: Real estate, ranching, lending, and AI innovation06:00 – Private Credit Philosophy: Moving from equity to debt for capital preservation08:00 – Flex Fund Deep Dive: 27 investment sleeves, 1–7-year terms, and 9.5–13 % returns11:00 – Defining Private Credit: Why senior-secured lending matters15:00 – Transparency & Trust: How Ballard maintains long-term investor confidence20:00 – Values-Based Operations: Doing what you say you’ll do22:00 – Personal Stories: From ministry and tech to mission-driven finance30:00 – Community Approach: Investor meetings and personal relationships33:00 – Closing Thoughts: Purpose, integrity, and access to private marketsCreditsSponsored by Real Advisers Capital, Austin, TexasIf you are interested in being a guest, please email us.Podcast production by Red Sun Creative, Austin, Texas: https://redsuncreative.studioDisclaimers“This production is for educational purposes only and is not intended as investment or legal advice.”“The hosts of this podcast practice law with the law firm, Ferguson Braswell Fraser Kubasta PC; however, the views expressed on this podcast are solely those of the hosts ...
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    36 m
  • E60: Inside Dubai Deals - How Capital Actually Moves in the UAE

    E60: Inside Dubai Deals - How Capital Actually Moves in the UAE
    Nov 5 2025

    For Investors Exploring Cross-Border Opportunities: How Raising Capital in the UAE Really Works


    Dubai is often seen as a place of limitless wealth and easy capital—but the reality of raising money in the United Arab Emirates is far more structured and relationship-driven than most realize. In this episode, international attorney Sarah Florer sits down with Roland Wiederaenders to share her firsthand experience practicing law in Dubai, working inside government-linked private equity, and managing cross-border deals from the Middle East, Africa, India, and the U.S. We break down how DIFC and ADGM financial free zones operate, why Islamic finance and family offices play a major role in regional investment flows, and what founders, fund managers, and investors need to understand before approaching capital sources in the Gulf region.


    This conversation is essential listening for anyone exploring global dealmaking, private investments, U.S. real estate syndications, sovereign wealth dynamics, or raising international capital.

    Top Takeaways

    1. Dubai does have capital, but access is based on relationships, credibility, and regulatory compliance, not cold outreach.
    2. The UAE operates under multiple regulatory jurisdictions: federal law + DIFC, ADGM, DMCC, and VARA (crypto).
    3. Public solicitation, events, and roadshows often trigger regulatory licensing requirements.
    4. One-to-one meetings and private introductions are the norm for early investor conversations.
    5. Many deals in the UAE use English law to manage cross-border disputes and reduce litigation risk.
    6. Family offices, government wealth, and private enterprise often overlap, influencing decision-making and access.
    7. Deal sizes can be very large—even for relatively young professionals—due to rapid development and backing from sovereign wealth funds.

    Notable Quotes

    • “Dubai has capital—access runs through relationships, regulation, and fit.”
    • “A ‘yes’ can mean ‘maybe.’ You have to validate interest before you count on it.”
    • “Public roadshows usually require licensing. Quiet coffees often don’t—but get legal advice.”
    • “Family offices, government, and enterprise often intersect in the UAE. Understanding who controls a deal is key.”
    • “In global transactions, English law is used because litigation risk makes parties avoid U.S. law when they can.”

    Chapters

    00:00 – Intro & why Dubai fascinates global investors
    01:29 – Sarah’s path to the Middle East and cross-cultural background
    04:27 – Working at Al-Tamimi: banking, Islamic finance, private wealth
    06:44 – “Dubai Inc.” and transitioning into government-linked private equity
    11:46 – Billion-dollar deal experience in a 12-million-person country
    15:41 – How marketing shaped Dubai’s global investment identity
    19:15 – Raising capital in the UAE: perception vs. practice
    21:52 – DIFC, ADGM, federal law & free-zone regulatory differences
    24:14 – When you must be licensed vs. when relationship outreach works
    27:21 – How foreign lawyers actually practice in the UAE
    34:53 – Global legal networks: maritime, energy & arbitration
    36:45 – Closing thoughts


    Credits

    Sponsored by Real Advisers Capital, Austin, Texas

    If you are interested in being a guest, please email us.


    Disclaimers

    “This production is for educational purposes only and is not intended as investment or legal advice.”


    “The hosts of this podcast practice law with the law firm, Ferguson Braswell Fraser Kubasta PC; however, the views expressed on this podcast are solely those of the hosts and their guests, and not those of Ferguson Braswell Fraser Kubasta PC.”


    © 2025 AltInvestingMadeEasy.com LLC All rights reserved
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    37 m
  • E59: How to Become Investor-Ready: Fundraising & Investor Relations Strategies for Alternative Investments

    E59: How to Become Investor-Ready: Fundraising & Investor Relations Strategies for Alternative Investments
    Oct 29 2025
    Discover how fund managers go from overlooked to investor-ready in this episode of Alt Investing Made Easy. Guest expert Laura Oslick, founder of Stella Polare Advisors, reveals proven fundraising strategies, investor relations best practices, and the operational playbook every manager needs to attract sophisticated capital. Whether you’re raising for alternative investments, launching a non-traded REIT, or preparing for operational due diligence, this conversation shows exactly how to professionalize your processes, strengthen reporting, and tell a story investors trust. Mid-stage investors and fund managers will learn how to scale from boutique to institutional, improve communication, and position their funds for sustainable growth in today’s evolving private-market landscape.About Our Guest: Laura Oslick, Founder & President at Stella Polare AdvisorsLaura Oslick, CAIA, is a seasoned finance professional and community leader with deep expertise in alternative investments, real estate, and advisory services. As a Principal at Stella Polare Advisors, she brings more than a decade of experience guiding clients through complex financial landscapes, leveraging her background in investment banking, real estate, and capital markets. A graduate of the UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School, Laura has been recognized as a Dean’s Fellow, Forte Fellow, and Trammell Crow Residential/Leonard Wood Fellow. Beyond her professional work, she is an active voice in industry and community leadership, serving on the Advisory Board for UNC’s Leonard W. Wood Center for Real Estate Studies, the Urban Land Institute, and the Junior League of Dallas. Her career reflects a rare blend of technical expertise, strategic insight, and a passion for empowering both clients and communities.Connect with Laura Oslickon LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauraoslick/ Top TakeawaysProfessionalize before you fundraise. ODD can block great strategies; fix ops, reporting, and governance early.IR is compounding. Clear, consistent communication during good and bad periods drives re-ups and referrals.Your deck is your 10-minute audition. Story, differentiation, and error-free numbers beat flashy design.Retail does not equal easy. Non-traded REITs unlock distribution but require monthly marks, SEC-grade reporting, and liquidity planning.Match structure to clients. Income-hungry clients favor REIT/BDC; long-horizon clients can hold illiquid closed-end funds.Process enables scale. Moving from $400M to $750M+ requires automation, tighter reporting, and documented controls.Roadshow readiness matters. Logistics + pitch coaching = better meetings, fewer errors, stronger outcomes.Notable Quotes“The best time to be fundraising is when you’re not fundraising.” “You might have the best strategy in the world, but if you can’t pass operational due diligence, you won’t get dollars.” “You only get about ten minutes; your materials must earn the second meeting.“Retail channels aren’t ‘easier,’ they have their own obligations and nuances.” “It’s not just pretty design; clarity, differentiation, and accurate numbers win.” “Redemption features aren’t guarantees; set expectations and communicate.” “Solve puzzles, make things better, that’s what drives me.” Chapters00:00 – Introduction02:00 – Investor Relations: Your Hidden Growth Engine06:30 – Scaling from $400M to $750M+ Funds10:45 – Pitch Books that Win Second Meetings15:45 – Non-Traded REITs: Opportunity or Overload?21:30 – Managing Liquidity and Redemption Expectations27:55 – Matching Product to Advisor Client Profiles31:30 – Roadshows & Travel Management for Fundraising33:45 – Motivation & MissionCreditsSponsored by Real Advisers Capital, Austin, TexasIf you are interested in being a guest, please email us.Podcast Production by Red Sun Creative, Austin, Texashttps://redsuncreative.studioDisclaimers“This production is for educational purposes only and is not intended as investment or legal advice.”“The hosts of this podcast practice law with the law firm, Ferguson Braswell Fraser Kubasta PC; however, the views expressed on this podcast are solely those of the hosts and their guests, and not those of Ferguson Braswell Fraser Kubasta PC.”© 2025 AltInvestingMadeEasy.com LLC All rights reserved
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    37 m
  • E58: Capital Raising Made Easy - How Real Advisers Capital Helps Issuers Attract Investors

    E58: Capital Raising Made Easy - How Real Advisers Capital Helps Issuers Attract Investors
    Oct 22 2025

    In this episode, hosts Sarah Florer and Roland Wiederaenders unveil Real Advisers Capital—a new platform designed to simplify private capital raising. Together with marketing strategist Anthony Carrano and videographer Mark Caddell, they merge legal expertise, compliance, and digital marketing to help issuers attract and retain investors under Rule 506(c).


    Discover how Real Advisers Capital supports deal structuring, investor outreach, and transparency to ensure every good idea gets funded, and every investor stays informed.


    Start your next capital raise with Real Advisers Capital → [Book a Consultation].


    Top Takeaways

    1. Capital Raising Made Easy: Real Advisers Capital combines legal, marketing, and compliance expertise to streamline fundraising for private issuers.
    2. Bridging Law and Marketing: The team integrates securities law knowledge with digital marketing to create compliant, investor-ready campaigns.
    3. Investor Network Building: From friends-and-family rounds to institutional investors—learn how to grow your investor base strategically.
    4. Compliance Is Critical: Proper disclosure and ongoing transparency protect issuers from legal and financial risk.
    5. Investor Relations = Trust: Open, proactive communication keeps investors engaged and reduces liability.
    6. Democratization of Capital: “No good deal should fail for lack of funding”—everyone deserves a seat at the investing table.
    7. Featured Success Stories: Ryan Sheehan Racing, CornBoard Manufacturing, Sound Curves, and Oil & Gas ventures exemplify diverse alt-investment opportunities.

    Notable Quotes

    • “No good deal should fail for lack of funding.” – Roland Wiederaenders
    • “Everybody has a seat at this table. What you need is knowledge.” – Sarah Florer
    • “When you use other people’s money, you’re answerable to them. Transparency is protection.” – Roland Wiederaenders
    • “Raising capital helps power small-business growth, new technologies, and job creation.” – Sarah Florer

    Chapters with Timestamps


    00:00 – Introduction: Launching Real Advisers Capital
    01:00 – Why Real Advisers Was Founded
    03:00 – Making Capital Raising Easy
    05:00 – How Legal + Marketing Expertise Merge
    07:00 – The Importance of Compliance
    09:00 – Building Your Investor Network
    10:00 – Investor Relations Done Right
    12:00 – Featured Deals: Racing, CornBoard, and More
    16:00 – The Mission: Democratizing Capital Access
    19:00 – Closing Thoughts & Call to Action


    Credits

    Sponsored by Real Advisers Capital, Austin, Texas

    If you are interested in being a guest, please email us.


    Disclaimers

    “This production is for educational purposes only and is not intended as investment or legal advice.”


    “The hosts of this podcast practice law with the law firm, Ferguson Braswell Fraser Kubasta PC; however, the views expressed on this podcast are solely those of the hosts and their guests, and not those of Ferguson Braswell Fraser Kubasta PC.”


    © 2025 AltInvestingMadeEasy.com LLC All rights reserved
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    22 m
  • E57: Estate Planning Simplified: Protecting Your Family, Your Legacy, and Your Peace of Mind with Eric Bean, FBFK Law

    E57: Estate Planning Simplified: Protecting Your Family, Your Legacy, and Your Peace of Mind with Eric Bean, FBFK Law
    Oct 15 2025

    Discover simple, strategic steps to protect your wealth, secure your legacy, and prevent family conflict through smart estate planning with expert insights from attorney Eric Bean.

    Estate Planning Made Easy: Protect Your Legacy and Family Peace of Mind

    Most people think estate planning is only for the ultra-wealthy. In this episode, Eric Bean, attorney at FBFK Law, breaks down how families under the $15M exemption can protect their assets, avoid conflict, and plan for both death and incapacity. From handwritten wills to guardianship nightmares, this conversation makes estate planning simple, relatable, and essential. If you care about your loved ones and want peace of mind, this is the episode to listen to.

    About Our Guest: Eric Bean, Attorney at FBFK Law
    After graduating from South Texas College of Law Houston, Eric Bean served for 2 years as a briefing attorney at the Fourteenth Court of Appeals in Houston, Texas. After his clerkship, Eric joined a boutique estate planning and probate litigation firm, eventually becoming a partner. Eric focuses his practice on estate planning and probate law with an emphasis on trust and estate administration, guardianship administration, and trust, estate, and fiduciary litigation. He represents fiduciaries, family members, and beneficiaries in will contests and all manner of disputes and controversies involving estates and trusts. Eric is certified and eligible for court appointments, serving as an attorney for guardianship applicants or as a court-appointed attorney in guardianship proceedings, including as an attorney ad litem. Eric has also served as a court-appointed attorney ad litem in heirship cases and as a court-appointed administrator, helping clients navigate complex legal matters with clarity and confidence.

    Outside of his legal practice, Eric is passionate about sharing his knowledge. He writes about emerging legal issues and developments in estate planning and probate law, providing practical guidance to both clients and colleagues. Known for his attention to detail and dedication to his clients, he is a trusted advisor in navigating the intricacies of estate and probate law.

    Connect with Eric Bean on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-bean-57136130/

    Top Takeaways
    -You already have a plan—just not your own.
    -The state decides who gets your assets if you don’t.
    -“Leave it to Beaver” planning keeps things simple.
    -For non-taxable estates under $15M, structure your plan around fairness, clarity, and family harmony.
    -Avoid the big three litigation triggers:
    -Handwritten wills, last-minute changes, and naming one sibling as trustee.
    -Plan for incapacity, not just death.
    -Include powers of attorney, HIPAA releases, and directives to physicians to avoid costly guardianships.
    -Guardianship is the legal removal of rights.
    -Avoid it through proactive documentation and family transparency.
    -Peace of mind comes from preparation.
    -Once your plan is in place, you—and your family—sleep better.
    -Don’t be penny-wise and pound-foolish.
    -Spending on estate planning today prevents family turmoil tomorrow.

    Chapters with Timestamps
    00:00 – Welcome & guest introduction
    01:00 – What estate planning attorneys actually do
    03:00 – The handwritten “napkin will” and other real-world disputes
    05:00 – Understanding the $15M exemption and non-taxable estates
    07:00 – “Leave it to Beaver” estate planning explained
    10:00 – Why everyone needs a will—even if you “don’t have much”
    12:00 – What happens when you don’t plan
    14:00 – Guardianship for minors and adults
    20:00 – Planning for incapacity: powers of attorney & directives
    25:00 – Avoiding guardianships through smart documents
    29:00 – Real-life examples and court experiences
    34:00 – The emotional side of planning and family conflict
    37:00 – Why helping people plan is deeply rewarding
    39:00 – Closing thoughts: death, taxes, and peace of mind

    Credits
    Sponsored by Real Advisers Capital, Austin, Texas
    If you are interested in being a guest, please email us.

    Video and Podcast Production by Red Sun Creative, Austin, Texas
    https://redsuncreative.studio

    Disclaimers
    “This production is for educational purposes only and is not intended as investment or legal advice.”

    “The hosts of this podcast practice law with the law firm, Ferguson Braswell Fraser Kubasta PC; however, the views expressed on this podcast are solely those of the hosts and their guests, and not those of Ferguson Braswell Fraser Kubasta PC.”

    © 2025 AltInvestingMadeEasy.com LLC All rights reserved
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    40 m
  • #56: Maximize Returns with Legal Due Diligence - Reduce Risk, Close Better Deals

    #56: Maximize Returns with Legal Due Diligence - Reduce Risk, Close Better Deals
    Oct 8 2025
    Legal Due Diligence: Protecting Returns in Alternative Investing Legal due diligence isn’t just paperwork — it’s profit protection. In this episode, attorney Javier Aranda of FBFK Law joins hosts Sarah Florer and Roland Wiederaenders to explain how early legal strategy can prevent costly mistakes, protect investor capital, and strengthen deal structures. From NDAs to IP rights and procurement contracts, Javier shares how to think like a business-minded lawyer — so every investor can make smarter, safer decisions in the alternative investing world.About Our Guest: Javier Aranda, Technology and IP Transactions Attorney at FBFK LawAn experienced transactional and technology attorney, Javier Aranda’s practice centers on deep knowledge and immersion in the technology industry, handling software and technology licensing agreements, intellectual property, data privacy, and other transactional matters. He’s served in senior corporate counsel positions for several major tech companies, and as a transactional attorney for video gaming companies, financial institutions, and a restaurant corporate headquarters – from USAA and Frost Bank to Whataburger.Javier is particularly adept at negotiating complex commercial transactions, including SaaS, Software Licensing, Intellectual Property, Game Development, Marketing, Ad-Tech, e-Commerce, Non-Disclosure Agreements, Consulting Services, IT Services, and Privacy Matters.Connect with Javier Aranda on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/javier-aranda-aa6a3973/ Top TakeawaysLegal is a profit lever. Good counsel reduces hidden costs, protects assets, and strengthens investor confidence.Contracts carry capital risk. Auto-renewals, vague T&Cs, and unreviewed clauses can quietly drain investor returns.IP ownership matters. Ensure employees and contractors assign intellectual property rights to the company — or risk losing core value.Due diligence drives deal success. Investors must review assignability, licensing, and online terms before capital deployment.NDAs aren’t optional. Even two-page documents protect ideas, data, and technology during early partnership discussions.Fractional counsel = full-time insight. Outsourced legal experts deliver in-house thinking without the overhead.AI assists, not replaces, judgment. Automated tools flag risk fast — but human legal context still determines deal quality.Notable Quotes“Good legal work isn’t just about compliance — it’s about protecting profits and preventing risk before it costs you.”“The same redlines that apply to one deal may not apply to the next. You only know the difference if you understand the business.”“You might think you negotiated a great deal, but if the online terms supersede your contract, you’ve already lost leverage.”“If you’re trying to raise money, someone will do due diligence on you. Make sure your contracts say what you think they say.”“I tell my clients: focus, achieve, success — but also get over yourself. Stay humble, stay teachable, and keep solving problems.”Chapters with Timestamps00:00 – Welcome & Guest Introduction: Sarah and Roland introduce attorney Javier Aranda, highlighting his background at EA, Zynga, and FBFK Law.01:20 – From In-House to Outside Counsel: Javier shares his transition from corporate counsel to serving as a fractional general counsel for tech-driven companies.04:30 – The Hidden Risks in Procurement: How everyday contracts, renewals, and vendor terms can quietly erode margins and investor returns.07:00 – The Business Partner Mindset: Why great attorneys think like operators — collaborating early to protect both growth and compliance.11:30 – Hub-and-Spoke Legal Strategy: Coordinating contracts across departments to uncover leverage, reduce redundancy, and save money.13:40 – Real-World Legal Traps: The overlooked clauses that can kill a deal — from hidden T&Cs to unenforceable indemnities.22:00 – NDAs & Confidentiality Essentials: When and how to use non-disclosure agreements to safeguard intellectual property and deal flow.27:30 – IP Ownership & Assignability: Protecting proprietary technology and ensuring contracts support fundraising and exits.32:00 – Legal Due Diligence for Investors: Why proactive document management and clear contract terms directly impact valuation and liquidity.37:20 – Personal Mission & Mindset: Javier’s personal mottos — “Focus, Achieve, Success” and “Get over yourself” — and how humility drives leadership and discipline.39:20 – Closing Thoughts: Hosts reflect on how legal due diligence shapes stronger, smarter alternative investing decisions.CreditsSponsored by Real Advisers Capital, Austin, TexasIf you are interested in being a guest, please email us.Podcast Production by Red Sun Creative, Austin, Texas: https://redsuncreative.studio/Disclaimers“This production is for educational purposes only and is not intended as investment or legal advice.”“The ...
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    41 m
  • #55 Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS) Explained: How Section 1202 Creates Tax-Free Business Exits

    #55 Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS) Explained: How Section 1202 Creates Tax-Free Business Exits
    Oct 1 2025
    How Qualified Small Business Stock Creates Tax-Free Business ExitsDiscover how Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS) can unlock tax-free exits for founders and investors. In this episode, attorney Dan Baucum of FBFK Law breaks down the tax rules, timelines, and strategies behind Section 1202. Learn how to structure your investments, maximize capital gains exclusions, and avoid costly mistakes when selling your business or stock. Whether you’re planning an exit or building a growth-focused portfolio, this episode simplifies complex tax concepts into actionable insights to help you make smarter, more confident decisions.About Our Guest: Dan Baucum, Attorney, FBFK LawDan Baucum advises clients on federal tax matters impacting business transactions such as acquisitions, mergers, sales, divisions, conversions, and terminations. He has deep experience navigating complex tax issues and is recognized for his work with LLCs, LPs, and S corporations and high-net-worth estate planning. Dan also represents clients in IRS controversies, including administrative matters before the IRS Chief Counsel’s Office in Washington, D.C. His expertise on federal tax issues has been sought in both advisory and expert witness roles, underscoring his command of the field.Earlier in his career, Dan served as Special Assistant to the IRS Assistant Chief Counsel (Passthroughs & Special Industries). In that role, he reviewed key IRS tax guidance related to partnerships, S corporations, trusts, and estates. Notably, he contributed to developing the built-in gain and disguised sale of property regulations and helped shape the IRS’s “safe harbor” policy for partnership profits interests. He reviewed and drafted numerous proposed regulations, revenue rulings, and private letter rulings issued by the Passthroughs division. After his tenure in government, Dan joined the National Tax Office of an international accounting firm as director, advising on partnership tax issues and IRS procedure. He also taught for four years as an adjunct professor at Georgetown University Law Center’s Graduate Tax Law Program.Since returning to Dallas, Dan has remained active in legal practice and bar leadership. He chaired the State Bar of Texas Tax Section and previously led the Dallas Bar Association’s Tax Section. His dedication to legal education includes almost 17 years of teaching as an Adjunct Professor at SMU Dedman School of Law and Baylor Law School. Recognizing his professional contributions, he is a Fellow of the American College of Tax Counsel.Connect with Dan Baucum on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dbaucum/ Top TakeawaysQSBS Power: Exclude up to $15M or 10x your investment in capital gains taxes with proper planning.LLC vs. C-Corp: Why switching to a C-Corp can benefit growth-focused businesses reinvesting profits.5-Year Holding Rule: Hold QSBS for five years to qualify for a 100% capital gains tax exclusion.Stock vs. Asset Sales: Only stock sales qualify for QSBS — asset sales miss out on tax benefits.Family Wealth Transfer: QSBS exclusions can be stacked by gifting stock to family members.Eligibility: Tech and manufacturing usually qualify; service businesses typically do not.Exit Strategy Clarity: Tax planning early can save millions and prevent last-minute deal roadblocks.Notable Quotes“Ask yourself: What are you going to do with the profits? That answer determines how you should be taxed.” – Dan Baucum“Qualified Small Business Stock can be a game changer — it’s one of the most overlooked tax planning tools for growth companies.” – Dan Baucum“Nine times out of ten, an LLC may be the right answer, but don’t let habit dictate your choice — do the math.” – Dan BaucumChapters with Timestamps00:00 – IntroductionWelcome and overview of tax-focused investing strategies.01:00 – Meet Dan BaucumDan’s background and expertise in tax law and partnership structures.04:00 – LLC vs. C-Corp ExplainedKey differences and why entity choice matters for investors and founders.10:50 – Deciding How to Use ProfitsHow reinvesting vs. distributing profits influences tax decisions.13:56 – QSBS OverviewWhat Qualified Small Business Stock is and why it matters.17:28 – Who Qualifies for QSBSEligible industries and common exclusions under Section 1202.21:43 – Switching from LLC to C-CorpHow and when to make the transition to qualify for QSBS.24:40 – Gross Asset Rules & GrowthUnderstanding the $75M asset threshold and scaling considerations.26:35 – The 5-Year Rule & Partial ExclusionsTimelines to hit 50%, 75%, and 100% capital gains exclusions.29:01 – Equity Compensation BenefitsWhy C-Corps simplify stock options and employee incentives.34:24 – Estate & Gift Tax PlanningHow entrepreneurs and investors can integrate QSBS into wealth transfer strategies.37:26 – Final Thoughts & Action StepsKey takeaways and why early tax planning is essential.CreditsSponsored by Real Advisers Capital, Austin, ...
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