In this episode I'd like to take you on a journey from the skies above Ohio to the solid ground of life's realities. I will share my transformative experience of static line skydiving, a leap that was never on my bucket list but became a profound metaphor for life, fear, and legacy.

Through the recounting of my jump, I draw parallels between the adrenaline-fueled moments of free fall and the daily challenges and triumphs faced by business owners.

This episode is not just about skydiving; it's a deep dive into facing fears, embracing the unknown, and preparing for life's inevitable landing. My story is a powerful reminder of the importance of living fully, loving deeply, and leaving a meaningful legacy. Whether you're navigating your own 4th quarter or just looking for inspiration to take your next big leap, this episode offers valuable insights into making every moment count. Join me as I explore how shared experiences can overcome fears, strengthen bonds, and encourage us to live life to its fullest.

To learn more, visit:

www.servingstrong.com

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www.missionmatters.com/author/scott-couchenour

In this episode, we dive deep into the pivotal moments of business and life transitions with insights from retired founder Steve McKee, who recently embarked on a new chapter after selling his company of 27 years. Steve shares his enthusiasm for what lies ahead and reflects on the critical principles of navigating turns in both business and personal spheres. The discussion emphasizes the importance of preparation and recognizing the opportune moments for change, shedding light on how these principles have guided Steve through his career and into a promising future. Additionally, we explore the intertwined nature of career success, identity, and the journey towards the next decade of life, offering listeners a comprehensive view of the challenges and triumphs faced by those at the helm of their businesses.

The conversation shifts to the nuanced topic of succession planning, where we delve into the psychological and practical aspects essential for a smooth transition. We discuss the significance of starting the succession planning process early, ideally 6-10 years in advance, to ensure the longevity and success of the business. By focusing on identifying and developing a successor, even without immediate plans to sell, business founders can prepare for a future where their legacy thrives beyond their direct involvement.

Steve McKee is the recently-retired co-founder of McKee Wallwork, a nationally recognized marketing advisory firm. He is the author of TURNS: Where Business Is Won and Lost, a groundbreaking book on change management, When Growth Stalls: How it Happens, Why You're Stuck and What to Do About It, an award-winning business book now published in four languages, and Power Branding: Leveraging the Success of the World's Best Brands, which one New York Times bestselling author called “the definitive book on modern branding” that “should be mandatory reading in every business school in America.”

Steve’s firm made the Inc. 500 list of the fastest-growing private companies in America its first year of eligibility and has twice won the prestigious Effie Award for marketing effectiveness from the American Marketing Association. The firm has twice been recognized by Advertising Age as Southwest Small Agency of the Year and one of the nation’s Best Places to Work, and also won the publication’s National B2B Campaign of the Year award.

Steve was a Businessweek.com columnist for a decade and currently writes a popular monthly column for SmartBrief on Leadership. He has been published or quoted in The New York Times, USA Today, Forbes.com, Investor's Business Daily and The Los Angeles Times, among others, and has appeared on CNBC, ESPN2, CNNfn, Bloomberg, and network television affiliates across America.

Find Steve here:

https://www.stevemckee.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevemckee/

To learn more, visit:

www.servingstrong.com

Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters:

www.missionmatters.com/author/scott-couchenour

In this episode I chat with Ash Atkinson about business valuation, growth strategies, and exit options. Ash discusses the importance of considering more than just revenue when valuing a business, including strategic, organizational, employee, customer, financial, and what he calls ESG factors. He emphasizes the need for documentation to support all aspects of a company's operations and values.

The conversation covers how business owners can increase their options beyond just an exit by focusing on improving different value pillars over time. Ash also addresses common mistakes owners make when scaling, like failing to establish a cohesive company culture and clear key performance indicators.

Overall, the discussion provides business owners with a more well-rounded perspective on increasing their company's long-term value and sustainability for potential exit or growth opportunities.

Ash Atkinson is a seasoned professional with a globe-trotting career that spans from the equestrian breeding facilities of Germany to the competitive horse arenas of Mexico, and into the dynamic US real estate market. Starting his career in Germany, Ash developed a knack for sales and management, building an extensive international network. His journey took a significant turn in Mexico at La Silla, where he delved into the intricacies of competition horses and the Latin American market. Upon moving to the United States, Ash transitioned into the real estate sector in Southern California, leveraging his equestrian connections to navigate the high-end luxury lifestyle market, specializing in exclusive jet and yacht charters and sales.

Now residing in Wellington, FL, Ash is a pivotal figure among ultra-high-net-worth investors, focusing on alternative asset investments and business development. His passion for helping SMEs to grow, scale, or achieve a successful liquidity exit is evident through his innovative approach to optimizing business operations, identifying efficiencies, and unlocking capital to maximize profit margins. Ash also plays a key role on the investment committee for a Real Estate Multifamily Fund and holds several key licenses in Florida, including Real Estate Sales Associate, 214 Life Including Variable Annuity, and 240 Health Insurance. With expertise in working with high-net-worth individuals, private jet and yacht sales, equestrian markets, and US-based private equity and real estate funds, Ash Atkinson is a visionary in business development, dedicated to steering businesses towards growth and success.

You can reach Ash here:

https://arcadvisoryco.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ash-atkinson/

To learn more, visit:

www.servingstrong.com

Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters:

www.missionmatters.com/author/scott-couchenour