The 7 Minute Takeover

In this episode of 7 Minute Takeover , Elizabeth MacRae and Eamonn Gamble challenge the myth of "love at first sight" in business acquisition. Instead of expecting instant clarity, they encourage buyers to embrace a process of trial, error, and self-discovery , often involving pivots across industries . They outline a practical three-step framework: 1️⃣ Define your acquisition criteria o...

In this episode, Jim Friesen of Portage M&A joins Elizabeth MacRae to discuss the evolving landscape of buying a business in Canada , particularly in Ontario. With fewer quality businesses hitting the market—and more qualified buyers ready to move—Friesen shares strategies to stand out in an increasingly competitive acquisition environment.   🔍 Topics Covered Why deal volume is down despite s...

In this episode, Liz and Eamonn tackle the often misunderstood role of business brokers in the business acquisition process. While some buyers view brokers as roadblocks or gatekeepers, the hosts explain how experienced brokers can actually accelerate deals , reduce friction, and protect both sides of the transaction. 🔍 Topics Covered: Why business brokers get a bad rap—and what they’re actually...

In this episode, Elizabeth and Eamonn challenge one of the most persistent myths in business acquisitions: that every business you buy should scale rapidly. They break down why growth projections from sellers and brokers often deserve scrutiny—and how savvy buyers can separate real opportunity from sales spin. 🔍 Topics Covered: Why not all small businesses are built to grow How to evaluate claims...

In this episode Elizabeth MacRae and Eamonn Gamble explore a key part of learning how to buy a business : handling seller reluctance toward holdbacks . Eamonn explains that holdbacks are a critical tool for protecting buyers from hidden liabilities like undisclosed contracts, and they should be introduced early—ideally at the offer stage . He shares practical advice on including holdbacks in share...

In this Deal Decode episode, Eamon and CEO Rob Irwin dive into a unique US-based executive airport transportation and logistics company listed on the Village Wellth Marketplace. With $3M in revenue and $270K in seller’s discretionary earnings, the duo explores the fast growing market, the business's asset light model, and challenges around margins, competition, and financing, especially for Ca...

In this episode of the 7 Minute Takeover, Liz McRea chats with Israel Peck, CEO of Cratic, about strategic due diligence in acquisitions. Israel breaks down the difference between standard and strategic due diligence, introduces the value chain framework (marketing, sales, operations, customer service), and shares tips for identifying opportunities to grow a business post-acquisition. Tune in for...

In this episode of the 7 Minute Takeover, Liz and Eamonn bust the myth that only large corporations can buy businesses. They dive into why individual buyers have a real shot at success, the unique advantages they bring to the table, and how emotional connection and leadership potential often outweigh big budgets. Tune in to learn how to compete with the “big dogs” in the world of business acquisit...

In this episode, Liz McRea chats with Scott Duke, founder of the Business Succession Group, about how buyers can effectively approach brokers in the M&A space. Scott shares insider insights on the broker's gatekeeping role, emphasizing the importance of showcasing the "3 Ms"; Money, Motivation, and Management experience, to build trust and move past initial barriers. He also prov...

In this episode, Liz sits down with Nunzio Presta, founder of BuyAndSellABusiness.com, which was recently acquired by Village Wellth. Nunzio opens up about his personal journey of selling the business he spent a decade building. He shares what led to his decision, how alignment with the right buyer mattered more than just valuation, and the emotional challenges that come with stepping away from so...

In this first "MythBuster" episode of the 7 Minute Takeover , Liz and Eammon tackle the common misconception that you need millions to buy a business. They explain why this belief exists, real ways you can finance a small business acquisition, and share surprising stories of buyers getting started with less than $100,000—or even $0 down!

In this episode, Liz chats with Jerrad Gerein, Founder & CEO of Arc Surveys, about his company’s first acquisition of a land surveying firm in Edmonton, Alberta. Jared shares what motivated their decision to grow through acquisition, the unexpected challenges they faced, especially during post-acquisition integration, and how remote management has played out. He also offers advice for first-ti...

In this episode, Liz and Eamon talk about finding off-market acquisition opportunities through proprietary outreach. They cover why narrowing your industry focus can improve your success and how a personalized approach builds trust with business owners. They also share key do’s and don’ts when contacting companies directly, and highlight the importance of follow-up, authenticity, and managing the...

In this episode, Liz and Eamon talk about the seller’s role after a business acquisition. They cover why it's critical to align on post-acquisition involvement early—whether the seller wants to exit quickly or stay involved. They also explore transition options like unpaid transition periods, seller notes, earn-outs, and rolled equity, and stresses the importance of flexibility if things don’t go...

Hosts Liz and Eamon share their personal stories of buying small businesses, and the valuable lessons they took away. The key takeaways center around the importance of thorough preparation, managing expectations, and being ready for the unexpected when taking over an existing small business.

In this episode, Liz and Eamonn break down the key differences between EBITDA and SDE in small business acquisitions. They explore when to use each metric, how they impact valuation and affordability, and the importance of understanding owner compensation when buying a business. If you're involved in small business acquisitions, this quick episode will help you confidently evaluate cash flow and s...

The debut episode of the 7-Minute Takeover with Village Wealth! In this jam-packed session, they break down why early January can feel like a deal flow desert and share insider tips to stay ahead, including leveraging events and creative networking with wealth managers and exit planners.