What's Your Deal? | Business Buying, Business Acquisitions, Investing & Exit Strategies

Colleen Joyce, CEO of Lawyer.com, joins Matt Uhler to share how she built an eight-figure legal marketplace from a single room and a great domain name. She explains her "sell it, then build it" approach, why the team that gets you to $1 million usually isn't the team that gets you to $20 million, and how a money-losing live events experiment became a profitable annual conference. Colleen and Matt also dig into fast failure, learning to delegate, and what AI really means for lawyers and the people who need them.

Connect with Colleen Joyce:

lawyer.com

lawyergrowthsummit.com

https://www.facebook.com/lawyerdotcom

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

https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fast-five-tuesdays-7265815097552326656/

Instagram: @lawyerdotcom

Connect with Matt Uhler / Amped Success:

Instagram: @ampedsuccess

Website: ampedsuccess.com

Email: admin@ampedsuccess.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-uhler-a9896612/

Want to be a guest or sponsor an episode?

If you'd like to be a guest on What's Your Deal? or are interested in sponsoring an episode, reach out to:

admin@ampedsuccess.com

Listen & Subscribe:

Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. It helps more people discover the show.

For the first time on What's Your Deal, Matt Uhler sits down with a fellow business broker, Ryan Armstrong of Transworld Phoenix. He and Matt walk through the full life of a Main Street deal: preparing the seller emotionally, building a data-driven listing, and vetting buyers. They also cover LOIs, due diligence, financing and closing, and why the best deals leave buyer and seller as friends.

Connect with Ryan Armstrong:

Connect with Matt Uhler / Amped Success:

Instagram: @ampedsuccess

Website: ampedsuccess.com

Email: admin@ampedsuccess.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-uhler-a9896612/

Want to be a guest or sponsor an episode?

If you'd like to be a guest on What's Your Deal? or are interested in sponsoring an episode, reach out to:

admin@ampedsuccess.com

Listen & Subscribe:

Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. It helps more people discover the show.

Why do brilliant people sometimes make terrible decisions? According to Rich Hua, former Chief EQ Evangelist at Amazon, it's because stress can cut your effective IQ in half, and most leaders were never taught how to manage it.

In this episode of What's Your Deal, host Matt Uhler sits down with Rich to talk about emotional intelligence and why it may be the most underrated skill in business today. Rich grew up focused almost entirely on IQ: straight A's, a perfect SAT score, and engineering at UC Berkeley. He calls it his "genius robot" plan, and it worked well until he got married and realized something important was missing. That realization launched a lifelong study of EQ. At Amazon, he wrote the six-pager that created his own role and built a 70,000-person community. He ultimately helped bring EQ to more than 1.5 million people inside Amazon and across leading companies worldwide.

Connect with Rich Hua:

Connect with Matt Uhler / Amped Success:

Instagram: @ampedsuccess

Website: ampedsuccess.com

Email: admin@ampedsuccess.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-uhler-a9896612/

Want to be a guest or sponsor an episode?

If you'd like to be a guest on What's Your Deal? or are interested in sponsoring an episode, reach out to:

admin@ampedsuccess.com

Listen & Subscribe:

Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. It helps more people discover the show.

Ryan Beckmann built and lost multi-million-dollar RV dealerships, won a 40 Under 40 award the same year he became homeless, and fought his way back from addiction to found Hero Picks and The Last Save. In this raw conversation, Ryan shares what it took to hit bottom, why service to others became the key to his own healing, and how he's now building "Beyond Awareness" — a platform designed to connect survivors of trauma and abuse directly to real-time resources and sustainable funding.

Connect with Ryan Beckmann:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-beckmann-heropicks/

Connect with Matt Uhler / Amped Success:

Instagram: @ampedsuccess

Website: ampedsuccess.com

Email: admin@ampedsuccess.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-uhler-a9896612/

Want to be a guest or sponsor an episode?

If you'd like to be a guest on What's Your Deal? or are interested in sponsoring an episode, reach out to:

admin@ampedsuccess.com

Listen & Subscribe:

Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. It helps more people discover the show.

Matt sits down with longtime friend and ZebraScapes Landscaping founder Rodney Steidinger, who built his company from a minivan and a trailer during the 2008 recession into a thriving, multi-generational business. Rodney shares the breaking point that forced him to hire real leadership, how he built a family business empire with his three daughters, and the core values that guide every hire and promotion at ZebraScapes.

Connect with Rodney Steidinger:

https://zebrascapes.com

Connect with Matt Uhler / Amped Success:

Instagram: @ampedsuccess

Website: ampedsuccess.com

Email: admin@ampedsuccess.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-uhler-a9896612/

Want to be a guest or sponsor an episode?

If you'd like to be a guest on What's Your Deal? or are interested in sponsoring an episode, reach out to:

admin@ampedsuccess.com

Listen & Subscribe:

Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. It helps more people discover the show.

Most business owners over 40 have never posted on social media — and it's not because they don't know how. It's fear. Matt Uhler sits down with Beau Bullard, founder of Bullard Media, to unpack why attention is today's most valuable currency, why iPhone content outperforms professional cameras by up to 800%, and how business owners (and the buyers who acquire their companies) should think about personal brand, legacy, and authenticity on social media.

Connect with Beau Bullard:

https://bullardmedia.org/

Connect with Matt Uhler / Amped Success:

Instagram: @ampedsuccess

Website: ampedsuccess.com

Email: admin@ampedsuccess.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-uhler-a9896612/

Want to be a guest or sponsor an episode?

If you'd like to be a guest on What's Your Deal? or are interested in sponsoring an episode, reach out to:

admin@ampedsuccess.com

Listen & Subscribe:

Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. It helps more people discover the show.

Tax attorney and wealth advisor Nik Agharkar of Crown Point Tax joins Matt to unpack the difference between tax evasion, tax deferral, and legitimate tax strategy — and why so many business owners unknowingly torch their company's sale value with aggressive write-offs. They dig into the "Costco conversation," why most CPAs aren't equipped to strategize (only to prepare). A must-listen for anyone planning to sell a business — or just tired of overpaying Uncle Sam.

Connect with Nik Agharkar:

https://www.crownepointtax.com

Connect with Matt Uhler / Amped Success:

Instagram: @ampedsuccess

Website: ampedsuccess.com

Email: admin@ampedsuccess.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-uhler-a9896612/

Want to be a guest or sponsor an episode?

If you'd like to be a guest on What's Your Deal? or are interested in sponsoring an episode, reach out to:

admin@ampedsuccess.com

Listen & Subscribe:

Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. It helps more people discover the show.

Most business owners spend decades building their company but almost no time planning what happens after they sell it. In this episode, Matt sits down with Anthony Perez of Harvest Wealth Strategies to talk about "knowing your number," why owner dependency is the #1 deal killer, and how to turn business equity into lasting personal and generational wealth — before it's too late to plan.

Connect with Anthony Perez:

Phone: 619-241-6336

Email: anthony.perez@harvestwealthstrategy.com

Connect with Matt Uhler / Amped Success:

Instagram: @ampedsuccess

Website: ampedsuccess.com

Email: admin@ampedsuccess.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-uhler-a9896612/

Want to be a guest or sponsor an episode?

If you'd like to be a guest on What's Your Deal? or are interested in sponsoring an episode, reach out to:

admin@ampedsuccess.com

Listen & Subscribe:

Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. It helps more people discover the show.

This week's episode flips the script — Beau Bullard, who's never bought a business himself, turns the tables and interviews Matt with the exact questions first-time buyers ask most. They cover finding your core competency, why profitable businesses go up for sale, how valuations really work, SBA loan qualification, seller-carried notes, blue sky, employee retention, and what actually makes a Main Street business tick. If you're buying — or selling — this is the FAQ episode you need.

Connect with Beau Bullard:

www.bullardmedia.org

https://www.instagram.com/beaubullardaz/

Connect with Matt Uhler / Amped Success:

Instagram: @ampedsuccess

Website: ampedsuccess.com

Email: admin@ampedsuccess.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-uhler-a9896612/

Want to be a guest or sponsor an episode?

If you'd like to be a guest on What's Your Deal? or are interested in sponsoring an episode, reach out to:

admin@ampedsuccess.com

Listen & Subscribe:

Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. It helps more people discover the show.

Eric Wiklendt, Managing Director of SpySide Equity, joins Matt Uhler to break down how private equity firms evaluate, acquire, and transform manufacturing businesses.

Eric shares the "fix and build" framework his firm uses to grow EBITDA and scale revenue, how they handle underperforming key employees, why smaller businesses struggle to execute transformation, and what a five-to-seven-year hold period means for deal strategy. A must-listen for anyone curious how PE thinking differs from Main Street business ownership.

Connect with Eric Wiklendt:

https://speysideequity.com/team/eric/

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

Connect with Matt Uhler / Amped Success:

Instagram: @ampedsuccess

Website: ampedsuccess.com

Email: admin@ampedsuccess.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-uhler-a9896612/

Want to be a guest or sponsor an episode?

If you'd like to be a guest on What's Your Deal? or are interested in sponsoring an episode, reach out to:

admin@ampedsuccess.com

Listen & Subscribe:

Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. It helps more people discover the show.

Nearshoring is reshaping how U.S. companies build teams — and Brian Samson, founder of Plugg Technologies, has spent over a decade helping businesses do it right. In this episode of What's Your Deal, Brian joins Matt Uhler to break down why nearshoring has become a go-to strategy for outsourced talent.

Brian shares firsthand experience building an 80-person remote team from the ground up, the real cost breakdown between hiring domestically versus nearshoring, and how his company handles everything from sourcing and vetting to compliance and IP protection — while stepping back so clients build direct relationships with their hires.

Whether you're a small business owner considering your first remote hire or scaling a larger team, this conversation offers a practical, no-nonsense look at how nearshoring works — and whether it's the right move for your business.

Connect with Brian Samson:

https://plugg.tech

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/briansamson/

Connect with Matt Uhler / Amped Success:

Instagram: @ampedsuccess

Website: ampedsuccess.com

Email: admin@ampedsuccess.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-uhler-a9896612/

Want to be a guest or sponsor an episode?

If you'd like to be a guest on What's Your Deal? or are interested in sponsoring an episode, reach out to:

admin@ampedsuccess.com

Listen & Subscribe:

Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. It helps more people discover the show.

In this special episode, Sarah turns the tables and interviews Matt about an exciting new project: a community built for anyone thinking about buying a business. This new space opens the door for the masses to get questions answered live, weekly, with everything archived and searchable.

Buying a business doesn't have to be guesswork. Get direct access to a business broker with nearly 30 years of experience in The Dealmakers Hub!

Get 7 Days FREE Here!

See you on the inside!

-Matt

Eben and Ali Hartzenberg arrived in America with nothing, started from scratch, and built a portfolio of nine retail businesses.

In this episode, they open up about facing fear, the power of data over intuition, what makes their marriage-meets-business-partnership work, and the red flags that tell them to walk away from a deal.

Connect with Ali and Eben Hartzenberg:

Ali@bennali.com

Eben@bennali.com

Connect with Matt Uhler / Amped Success:

Instagram: @ampedsuccess

Website: ampedsuccess.com

Email: admin@ampedsuccess.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-uhler-a9896612/

Want to be a guest or sponsor an episode?

If you'd like to be a guest on What's Your Deal? or are interested in sponsoring an episode, reach out to:

admin@ampedsuccess.com

Listen & Subscribe:

Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. It helps more people discover the show.

Most business owners exploring an exit only hear one pitch: sell to private equity or a strategic buyer. Matt Middendorp, Director of ESOP Consulting at VisionPoint Capital, joins the show to make the case for a third path — selling to your own employees.

Matt breaks down what an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) actually is, the biggest misconceptions owners have about price, control, and legacy, and why ESOP companies often outperform their non-ESOP peers on growth, retention, and productivity. We get into eligibility rules, vesting, valuation, timelines, and one of the most overlooked ESOP tax benefits — one that can mean a tax-free exit for the right seller.

If you're a business owner weighing your exit options, or just curious how employee ownership actually works in practice, this episode lays it out in plain terms.

Connect with Matt Middendorp:

www.esopready.com

matt.middendorp@visionpointcapital.com

715.897.0879

Connect with Matt Uhler / Amped Success:

Instagram: @ampedsuccess

Website: ampedsuccess.com

Email: admin@ampedsuccess.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-uhler-a9896612/

Want to be a guest or sponsor an episode?

If you'd like to be a guest on What's Your Deal? or are interested in sponsoring an episode, reach out to:

admin@ampedsuccess.com

Listen & Subscribe:

Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. It helps more people discover the show.

Most business owners think they're making rational decisions. Robin Afinowich says otherwise.

In this episode, Matt sits down with Robin Afinowich — a clinically trained mental health counselor, national speaker, and daughter of M&A legend Jim Afinowich — to unpack how unresolved stress and trauma quietly shape the decisions business owners make every day. From childhood adversity to burnout in leadership, Robin breaks down the science behind why high performers overwork, over-please, and struggle to stay present — and what to do about it.

You'll learn why the "fawn" response is the most common (and most dangerous) pattern among executives, why stress and trauma leave the same physical fingerprint on the brain, and why the body always tells the truth even when the mind is "holding it together."

This isn't a therapy session — it's a practical look at the inner drivers behind outer success, and why ignoring them eventually costs founders their health, relationships, and joy.

Connect with Robin Afinowich:

Trauma & Resilience Professional Training-Development-Speaking visit: https://trauma-forward.com

Connect with Matt Uhler / Amped Success:

Instagram: @ampedsuccess

Website: ampedsuccess.com

Email: admin@ampedsuccess.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-uhler-a9896612/

Want to be a guest or sponsor an episode?

If you'd like to be a guest on What's Your Deal? or are interested in sponsoring an episode, reach out to:

admin@ampedsuccess.com

Listen & Subscribe:

Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. It helps more people discover the show.

What actually creates lasting wealth? And why do so many entrepreneurs hit a ceiling despite working harder than ever?

In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt Uhler sits down with entrepreneur, investor, and marketing strategist Alexa D'Agostino to discuss the uncomfortable truths behind scaling a business, building wealth, and transitioning from founder to owner.

Alexa has built and exited multiple companies, helped generate billions in revenue, and created the exclusive Wealth Mastery Summit, where high-level entrepreneurs, investors, and operators gather to solve real business challenges.

Together they explore why wealth isn't built through one lucky break, how founders unknowingly become the biggest bottleneck in their businesses, why finding the right "Number Two" is critical for growth, and how successful entrepreneurs know when to pivot instead of stubbornly pushing forward.

If you're building a business—or planning to acquire one—this conversation will challenge the way you think about leadership, identity, and long-term success.

Connect with Alexa:

https://www.alexadagostino.com

Instagram: @dralexadagostino

http://wealthmasteryevents.com

Connect with Matt Uhler / Amped Success:

Instagram: @ampedsuccess

Website: ampedsuccess.com

Email: admin@ampedsuccess.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-uhler-a9896612/

Want to be a guest or sponsor an episode?

If you'd like to be a guest on What's Your Deal? or are interested in sponsoring an episode, reach out to:

admin@ampedsuccess.com

Listen & Subscribe:

Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. It helps more people discover the show.

Most business owners spend years building income through their business, but far fewer create a strategy to turn that income into lasting wealth.

In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt Uhler sits down with wealth advisor Ted Young of Anasazi Investment Group to discuss the financial decisions that can make or break a business owner's future.

Ted shares the biggest mistakes he sees entrepreneurs make, why diversification matters, how to prepare for a successful exit, and what it really means to become "work optional."

The conversation also explores retirement planning, investment strategies, tax considerations, market volatility, and the emotional challenges many owners face after selling their businesses.

Whether you're actively growing a company, preparing for an exit, or simply trying to make smarter financial decisions, this episode provides practical insights on building wealth that lasts.

Connect with Ted Young:

Anasaziinvestmentgroup.com

Ted.young@raymondjames.com

602-953-8802

Connect with Matt Uhler / Amped Success:

Instagram: @ampedsuccess

Website: ampedsuccess.com

Email: admin@ampedsuccess.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-uhler-a9896612/

Want to be a guest or sponsor an episode?

If you'd like to be a guest on What's Your Deal? or are interested in sponsoring an episode, reach out to:

admin@ampedsuccess.com

Listen & Subscribe:

Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. It helps more people discover the show.

What happens when one of the most influential financial educators of all time sits down to talk business, investing, and the mindset behind wealth creation?

In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt Uhler welcomes Robert Kiyosaki, author of Rich Dad Poor Dad and founder of the Rich Dad brand. With more than 40 million books sold worldwide, Robert has spent decades challenging conventional financial wisdom and encouraging people to think differently about money, investing, debt, and entrepreneurship.

Robert shares the lessons he learned from having both a "rich dad" and a "poor dad," why rejection is a necessary part of success, and how developing entrepreneurial thinking can change the trajectory of your life. He discusses the importance of financial education, the difference between consumer debt and income-producing debt, and why he believes understanding cash flow is one of the most valuable skills anyone can learn.

Connect with Robert Kiyosaki

Website: RichDad.com

Instagram: @therealkiyosaki

X: @theRealKiyosaki

YouTube: The Rich Dad Channel

Connect with Matt Uhler / Amped Success:

Instagram: @ampedsuccess

Website: ampedsuccess.com

Email: admin@ampedsuccess.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-uhler-a9896612/

Want to be a guest or sponsor an episode?

If you'd like to be a guest on What's Your Deal? or are interested in sponsoring an episode, reach out to:

admin@ampedsuccess.com

Listen & Subscribe:

Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. It helps more people discover the show.

What if you could build multiple streams of income through ownership in small businesses — without running every business yourself?

In this solo episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt Uhler breaks down the exact framework he used to build ownership interests in more than 20 businesses across multiple industries through strategic equity deals and partnerships.

If you are interested in learning more about the Multiple Streams of Income Framework please email - admin@ampedsuccess.com

Instagram: @ampedsuccess

Website: ampedsuccess.com

Email: admin@ampedsuccess.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-uhler-a9896612/

If you'd like to be a guest on What's Your Deal? or are interested in sponsoring an episode, reach out to: admin@ampedsuccess.com

Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. It helps more people discover the show.

What if the biggest threat to your business isn't competition, the economy, or a bad deal—but your own operating system?

In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt and Audrey Uhler sit down with performance strategist and executive coach MJ Gordon to discuss why so many high-performing entrepreneurs feel overwhelmed, exhausted, and stuck in a constant state of stress.

MJ has worked with leaders from organizations like Adidas, the NFL, and NerdWallet, helping them improve performance without sacrificing their health, relationships, or quality of life. Together, they explore the hidden costs of operating in perpetual fight-or-flight mode, the impact of cognitive overload, how ADHD and brain wiring affect entrepreneurs, and why recovery may be the missing ingredient in sustainable business growth.

Whether you're building your first business, managing multiple companies, or simply trying to keep up with life's demands, this conversation offers practical strategies for creating more capacity, clarity, and long-term success.

Connect with MJ Gordon

https://www.mj-gordon.com

Instagram: @marinjayden

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marinjayden/

YouTube: @marinjayden

Connect with Matt and Audrey Uhler / Amped Success:

Instagram: @ampedsuccess

Website: ampedsuccess.com

Email: admin@ampedsuccess.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-uhler-a9896612/

Want to be a guest or sponsor an episode?

If you'd like to be a guest on What's Your Deal? or are interested in sponsoring an episode, reach out to:

admin@ampedsuccess.com

Listen & Subscribe:

Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. It helps more people discover the show.

What does it really take to build a successful life without sacrificing your health, family, happiness, or purpose along the way?

In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt Uhler sits down with legendary entrepreneur and speaker David Meltzer for one of the most powerful conversations we've had on the show.

David shares the lessons he learned after losing over $100 million, rebuilding his life through faith and purpose, and dedicating his mission to empowering over 1 billion people to be happy.

Connect with David Meltzer

Instagram: @davidmeltzer

LinkedIn: David Meltzer

YouTube: @DavidMeltzer

Podcast: The Playbook Podcast

Connect with Matt Uhler / Amped Success:

Instagram: @ampedsuccess

Website: ampedsuccess.com

Email: admin@ampedsuccess.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-uhler-a9896612/

Want to be a guest or sponsor an episode?

If you'd like to be a guest on What's Your Deal? or are interested in sponsoring an episode, reach out to:

admin@ampedsuccess.com

Listen & Subscribe:

Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. It helps more people discover the show.

In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt sits down with longtime business partner Kristian Gose and private lending veteran Bill "Billy A" Anastopoulos for an inside look at the world of private money lending, hard money loans, fix-and-flip financing, bridge loans, and real estate investing.

With more than 80 years of combined experience and thousands of funded transactions between them, this conversation dives deep into how private lending actually works behind the scenes — from funding deals in as little as 48 hours to evaluating risk, protecting investors, and helping borrowers capitalize on opportunities traditional banks simply can't move fast enough to support.

Timestamps:

00:17 – Introduction

02:51 – 80 Years of Combined Lending Experience

04:44 – Lessons from Entrepreneurship & Starting Over

06:39 – How the 2008 Crash Changed Lending

08:02 – What Is Hard Money Lending?

08:59 – Why Private Money Can Be Better Than a Partner

10:17 – Why Investors Pay for Speed

12:01 – How Fast Closings Win Real Estate Deals

14:44 – Bridge Loans & Buying a Dream Home

16:20 – Lessons Learned from Bad Real Estate Cycles

18:17 – Why Local Market Knowledge Matters

20:34 – Owner Builder & Barndominium Financing

21:25 – How Private Money Deals Get Funded

23:08 – How Investors Earn 8–12% Returns

24:40 – What Happens When a Deal Goes Bad

28:46 – Deals They Immediately Turn Down

31:56 – Using Real Estate to Fund Business Growth

33:12 – Understanding Exit Strategies & Risk

35:06 – Experience Matters in Real Estate Investing

39:21 – The 3 Things Every Lender Looks For

40:22 – A Real Example of a Successful Loan Structure

41:52 – Tax Benefits, Depreciation & 1031 Exchanges

43:42 – People Who Changed Their Lives

45:34 – "When the Tide Goes Up, All the Boats Go Up"

Connect with Bill "Billy A" Anastopoulos

520-299-4878

bill@anastopoulos.com

www.billya.com

Connect with Kristian Gose

520-403-8588

kristiangose@gmail.com

Connect with Matt Uhler / Amped Success:

Instagram: @ampedsuccess

Website: ampedsuccess.com

Email: admin@ampedsuccess.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-uhler-a9896612/

Want to be a guest or sponsor an episode?

If you'd like to be a guest on What's Your Deal? or are interested in sponsoring an episode, reach out to:

admin@ampedsuccess.com

Listen & Subscribe:

Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. It helps more people discover the show.

In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt sits down with Lindsey Quinn, founder of HeartWise Collective to talk about one of the biggest shifts happening in business today: artificial intelligence.

Lindsey shares how she went from running a traditional consulting business in the orthodontic industry to building AI-powered systems that help business owners save time, improve efficiency, and create better workflows without adding more staff or burning themselves out.

Matt and Lindsey break down how small business owners can start using AI in practical ways, from creating branded content and marketing systems to analyzing financial data, improving sales conversations, building SOPs, and reducing repetitive computer-based tasks. Lindsey also explains the difference between basic generative AI and more advanced AI agents, while keeping the conversation grounded for business owners who may feel overwhelmed by the technology.

01:30 — How Lindsey pivoted from consulting into AI systems

04:00 — Lindsey's background in orthodontic consulting and business systems

06:35 — Avoiding AI cringe and making content sound authentic

10:00 — How business owners can begin implementing AI systems

12:16 — Using AI to work on the business instead of in the business

15:46 — Training AI like you would train a new employee

18:38 — How AI agents can read, edit, download, and organize files

21:00 — AI overwhelm and knowing what applies to your business

23:00 — Creating a "Conversion Coach" for sales calls and team training

25:30 — Why the right AI tool matters for the right task

27:28 — How Lindsey used AI to build a webinar, funnel, and coaching program

31:21 — Comparing AI adoption to the shift from typewriters to computers

36:48 — First steps for business owners who want to start using AI

39:30 — Lindsey's RCRQ prompting framework

43:38 — Final thoughts on using AI to improve quality of life and business efficiency

Connect with Lindsay:

https://www.heartwisecollective.com

Instagram: @ampedsuccess

Website: ampedsuccess.com

Email: admin@ampedsuccess.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-uhler-a9896612/

Connect with Amped Funding Advisors:

https://ampedsuccess.com/amped-funding-advisors/

Phone number: 1-800-569-8974

If you'd like to be a guest on What's Your Deal? or are interested in sponsoring an episode, reach out to: admin@ampedsuccess.com

Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. It helps more people discover the show.

What does it really take to get approved for an SBA loan when buying a business?

In this episode of What's Your Deal? with Matt Uhler, Matt sits down with SBA lending expert Steve Johnston and financing specialist Lindsay Denton to break down the truth about SBA loans, business acquisition financing, and why most buyers get it wrong.

If you've heard horror stories about SBA loans taking forever—or getting declined at the last minute—this episode will completely change your perspective.

They cover what lenders are actually looking for, how deals get approved (or denied), and why the story behind the deal matters just as much as the numbers.

Whether you're a first-time buyer or an experienced investor, this conversation will help you avoid costly mistakes and position yourself to get funded the right way.

Timestamps:

00:16 – Meet Steve Johnson & Lindsay Denton

03:14 – Why SBA loans get a bad reputation

04:20 – The biggest misconceptions about SBA lending

05:00 – How long SBA loans actually take (real timelines)

06:00 – Why lenders are NOT all the same

08:15 – Real story: Approved → then declined (what happened)

11:15 - PLP vs GP lenders explained

13:00 – Inside how banks actually make decisions

16:00 – The truth about "pre-qualifications"

17:15 – What lenders look for immediately

19:40 – The 3 biggest deal killers (liquidity, experience, collateral)

21:00 – Why the STORY matters more than the numbers

23:00 – How to present a deal to get approved

25:00 – Building projections that make sense

26:25 – Adjusting deals to make them fundable

27:45 – Why most deals get declined (and how to avoid it)

29:30 – How underwriters really think

32:27 – Can a declined deal be saved?

34:50 – Why momentum matters in approvals

36:24 – What buyers should do BEFORE looking for a business

37:45 – Real example of unrealistic buyers

40:00 – Why the BUSINESS matters more than the buyer

44:15 – Character vs numbers in lending decisions

47:30 – How to connect with Steve & Lindsay

Connect with Steve:

sjohnston@mwregionalbank.com

Connect with Amped Funding Advisors:

https://ampedsuccess.com/amped-funding-advisors/

Phone number: 1-800-569-8974

Instagram: @ampedsuccess

Website: ampedsuccess.com

Email: admin@ampedsuccess.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-uhler-a9896612/

If you'd like to be a guest on What's Your Deal? or are interested in sponsoring an episode, reach out to: admin@ampedsuccess.com

Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. It helps more people discover the show.

What does it take to build a business that scales beyond you?

In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt sits down with franchising expert and entrepreneur Jeff Dudan to unpack what makes franchise ownership work, how to scale a business through systems, and why great businesses are built with the end in mind.

Jeff shares how he built and scaled AdvantaClean to over 240 locations before a successful exit, and how he now helps franchise brands grow through HomeFront Brands.

Timestamps:

1:16 Jeff Dudan's Entrepreneurial Journey Begins

4:42 Building AdvantaClean from Startup to National Brand

7:50 The Inflection Point That Led to Franchising

12:42 Partnership Lessons Every Business Owner Should Know

17:55 Choosing the Right Partners and Avoiding Common Mistakes

19:38 How to Scale a Business Into a Franchise Model

24:23 Reverse Engineering Growth and Building for Outcomes

29:24 Territory Strategy, Resales & Creating Franchise Value

33:35 How to Evaluate a Franchise Opportunity Before You Buy

36:05 Why Skills, Fit and Leadership Matter More Than Passion Alone

38:40 The "Business Athlete" Mindset and Discernment in Decision-Making

42:06 The Four C's of Business Growth: Comfort, Competence, Commitment & Capital

47:03 Why Capital Isn't Usually the Real Constraint

48:56 Mentorship, Experience and Learning From People Ahead of You

Connect with Jeff:

Instagram: @ampedsuccess

Website: ampedsuccess.com

Email: admin@ampedsuccess.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-uhler-a9896612/

If you'd like to be a guest on What's Your Deal? or are interested in sponsoring an episode, reach out to: admin@ampedsuccess.com

Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. It helps more people discover the show.

https://ampedsuccess.com/amped-funding-advisors/

What happens when a key employee becomes one of the most valuable partners in a small business?

In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt Uhler sits down with longtime business partner Ryan Carr to discuss small business ownership, business partnerships, leadership, entrepreneurship, company culture, employee management, and business growth.

Ryan shares his journey from employee to owner after starting with a Northern Arizona commercial property maintenance company in 2016 and becoming a business partner in 2018. Today, he helps lead one of the top commercial property maintenance companies in Arizona, providing parking lot sweeping, pressure washing, fleet washing, portering services, snow removal, and exterior maintenance services.

Timestamps:

01:35 - How the business sale and partnership came together

04:25 - Ryan's transition from employee to owner

05:40 - Ryan's background before joining the company

07:05 - Why confidentiality matters during a business sale

08:05 - How ownership changed Ryan's mindset

09:15 - Ryan and his wife working together in the business

10:55 - Working on the business vs. in the business

12:00 - Why blue-collar businesses are strong opportunities

13:10 - Managing people, personalities, and company culture

14:00 - COVID, staffing shortages, and leadership challenges

15:00 - Learning to delegate and stop micromanaging

17:40 - Why toxic employees can damage a company

19:40 - The importance of making difficult decisions quickly

20:40 - Business growth, profitability, and company culture

21:35 - Choosing the right business partners

22:50 - How their partnership structure works

24:20 - The value of passive partners and advisors

25:00 - Ryan's toughest moments in business

26:40 - Labor shortages and hiring struggles after COVID

27:30 - Why the company is stronger today

28:00 - Delegating more responsibility to the team

28:50 - Snow removal and managing a 24/7 business

30:40 - Taking pride in the company and community impact

32:00 - Supporting employees through difficult times

35:00 - Why treating employees like people matters

35:50 - Advice for people who want to own a business

36:40 - Family sacrifice, business ownership, and success

37:50 - Ryan's gratitude for his family and support system

Email - ryan@sweptawayaz.com

SweptAwayAZ.com

Instagram: @ampedsuccess

Website: ampedsuccess.com

Email: admin@ampedsuccess.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-uhler-a9896612/

If you'd like to be a guest on What's Your Deal? or are interested in sponsoring an episode, reach out to: admin@ampedsuccess.com

Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. It helps more people discover the show.

In this special anniversary episode of What's Your Deal?, the mic flips as Sarah interviews Matt Uhler on one of the most requested topics yet—how to build multiple streams of income through small business ownership.

After producing 40+ episodes covering buying, managing, and exiting businesses, this conversation dives into the strategy Matt has personally used to build a portfolio of 20+ income-producing businesses—what he calls his own "business mutual fund."

Matt breaks down the Faucet Framework, a proven system for creating diversified, predictable income without relying on a single source. From minimizing risk to structuring partnerships the right way, this episode gives you a real-world blueprint for financial stability and long-term freedom.

If you're a:

This episode is for you!

If this topic interests you, fill out this form to get early access and details on our upcoming Multiple Streams of Income Mastermind.

Timestamps:

2:30 – What Matt actually does (business "mutual fund")

5:00 – Where the idea came from (childhood + time limitation)

9:30 – The danger of one income stream

13:00 – The faucet analogy

18:00 – Current portfolio + results

20:00 – Base hits vs home runs

25:00 – Deal criteria & filtering

26:45 – Faucet Framework explained

28:30 – Recipe concept

31:00 – Boots on the ground

35:00 – Financial feasibility

38:30 – Accountability

42:00 – Future: webinar + live event

44:30 – Personal story + mom

Instagram: @ampedsuccess

Website: ampedsuccess.com

Email: admin@ampedsuccess.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-uhler-a9896612/

If you'd like to be a guest on What's Your Deal? or are interested in sponsoring an episode, reach out to: admin@ampedsuccess.com

Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. It helps more people discover the show.

What does it really take to leave a stable career and step into business ownership?

In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt sits down with Kevin Mizell, a former government construction engineer manager who walked away from a high-level career to buy a small business—right in the middle of the pandemic.

Kevin shares the real, unfiltered truth about what it's like to go from a W2 job to owning a business. From taking on large debt for the first time, to navigating labor challenges, to realizing that "passive income" isn't what most people think—it's all here.

If you've ever thought about leaving your W2 job and buying a business, this episode will challenge your assumptions and give you a grounded, real-world perspective on what it actually takes to succeed.

This isn't theory. This is what it looks like in the real world.

Timestamps:

02:00 – Leaving a stable career for business ownership

06:00 – Early entrepreneurial thoughts and risk considerations

10:00 – Choosing the right business (and core competency)

13:00 – Navigating the acquisition process

18:00 – Transitioning into ownership

22:00 – Employee challenges and leadership realities

26:00 – Buying during COVID uncertainty

28:00 – Managing debt and financial pressure

31:00 – Work ethic, integrity, and long-term mindset

36:00 – Advice for aspiring business owners

41:00 – Working with brokers and evaluating deals

44:00 – The reality of "owning vs. working in" a business

47:00 – Gratitude and closing thoughts

Email - kevin@bennettglassandmirror.com

Phone Number: 928-515-9663

Bennett Glass: https://www.bennettglassandmirror.com

Instagram: @ampedsuccess

Website: ampedsuccess.com

Email: admin@ampedsuccess.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-uhler-a9896612/

If you'd like to be a guest on What's Your Deal? or are interested in sponsoring an episode, reach out to: admin@ampedsuccess.com

Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. It helps more people discover the show.

What does it really mean to be a great leader?

In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt sits down with leadership coach Keith Cowling to unpack what most people get wrong about leadership—and how to actually build influence that lasts.

Keith shares lessons from over 30 years of working with business owners, teams, and individuals, revealing why leadership starts internally—not externally. From letting go of ego to learning how to truly develop people, this conversation goes far beyond surface-level advice.

If you've ever struggled with managing people, holding others accountable, or balancing leadership at work and at home—this episode will challenge how you think and lead.

This isn't about control. It's about growth, influence, and becoming the kind of leader people choose to follow.

01:49 – Why most leadership stays surface-level

02:36 – Keith's early struggles with leadership and control

04:09 – The turning point: focusing on people over productivity

08:40 – Leadership vs. success: why they're not the same

09:50 – Why leadership is about others, not yourself

12:45 – Internal vs. external validation explained

18:17 – Why being "whole" matters more than being perfect

21:02 – Leading at home vs. leading at work

24:33 – The mirror question: what would your spouse say about you?

27:30 – The difference between paid respect and earned influence

29:06 – Winning respect from your family

32:17 – Ego, leadership, and servant mindset

34:31 – Accountability: control vs. development

36:12 – Why someone must hold the standard

40:08 – Clarity in leadership and team expectations

41:31 – What it really means to "level up"

44:00 – Content vs. implementation (why most people stay stuck)

45:40 – Gratitude and who helped shape Keith

50:52 – How to connect with Keith

Instagram: @ampedsuccess

Email - cowlingk@gamil.com

Phone Number: (291) 306-0568

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keith.cowling/

Website: Ampedsuccess.com

Email: admin@ampedsuccess.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-uhler-a9896612/

If you'd like to be a guest on What's Your Deal? or are interested in sponsoring an episode, reach out to: admin@ampedsuccess.com

Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. It helps more people discover the show.

In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt sits down with repeat guests Luke McCarthy and Colton Imming to break down one of the most misunderstood topics in today's world—Bitcoin.

This conversation goes far beyond crypto hype. It dives into the fundamentals of money, inflation, asset ownership, and long-term wealth strategy.

Luke and Colton share why they've shifted their focus from traditional assets like real estate into Bitcoin, how they're using it to protect their wealth, and what it means for the future of investing.

If you've ever questioned how money actually works—or why it feels harder to get ahead—this episode will open your eyes.

Timestamps

02:10 – Bitcoin vs Cryptocurrency: What's the Difference?

03:25 – Bitcoin vs Gold: Understanding Scarcity

04:45 – The Hidden Truth About Money & Inflation

10:45 – How Bitcoin Changes Your Understanding of Money

11:50 – Why Inflation Doesn't Always Look Like Inflation

14:40 – The Growing Wealth Gap Explained

16:10 – Why Governments Will Keep Printing Money

18:15 – Real Estate vs Bitcoin: A New Perspective

19:20 – Do You Really Own Your Assets?

20:30 – Bitcoin as a Portable & Sovereign Asset

25:20 – Using Bitcoin in Business Strategy & Treasury

27:00 – Why Holding Cash Can Cost You

28:30 – Everyone Knows the Dollar Is Losing Value… Now What?

30:00 – Where to Start: Dollar Cost Averaging Bitcoin

33:30 – How They Personally Invest in Bitcoin

34:40 – Why Price Drops = Buying Opportunities

36:45 – How Bitcoin's Supply Actually Works

40:45 – Risks of Bitcoin & What Could Go Wrong

44:10 – Why Long-Term Thinking Is Critical

46:20 – Book Recommendation: The Price of Tomorrow

Instagram: @ampedsuccess

Website: Ampedsuccess.com

Email: admin@ampedsuccess.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-uhler-a9896612/

If you'd like to be a guest on What's Your Deal? or are interested in sponsoring an episode, reach out to: admin@ampedsuccess.com

Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. It helps more people discover the show.

What happens after you sell your business?

In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt Uhler sits down with Paul Hickey, CEO of Legacy Wealth Management, to talk about one of the most overlooked parts of business ownership: what comes next after the exit.

Paul shares insights from decades of experience in global finance, investment banking, IPOs, mergers and acquisitions, and entrepreneurship. Together, Matt and Paul unpack why so many business owners focus on getting out of the business but fail to prepare for life after the sale.

They discuss the emotional side of exit planning, the identity shift many owners face, how to avoid blowing through hard-earned wealth, and why creating a life plan is just as important as creating a financial plan. Paul also explains the value of starting early, building a team before the sale, and using strategic planning to reduce taxes and generate sustainable income after an exit.

This is a valuable conversation for business owners who want to sell wisely, protect their future, and build a true legacy for the next generation.

0:16 – Matt introduces Paul Hickey and his background

2:01 – Paul's journey from tech entrepreneur to IPO to investment banking

4:10 – What Legacy Wealth Management and Legacy Exits actually do

5:30 – Why exit readiness is only part of the equation

6:42 – The emotional side of selling a business

8:02 – What business owners often do wrong after a successful exit

9:50 – Paul's advice: protect a baseline income before taking new risks

12:17 – When owners should begin exit planning

13:58 – Why selling a business is more like an Ironman than a 5K

15:26 – Reducing taxes and increasing income after a sale

18:43 – The difference between average returns and intentional wealth strategy

19:16 – What "non-correlated investments" means

22:25 – Who qualifies as an accredited investor

24:02 – What legacy really means

25:30 – The danger of generational wealth without structure

28:56 – Family bank concepts and distributing wealth responsibly

30:02 – How deep legacy planning can go

30:40 – Helping business owners who have everything tied up in the business

32:17 – Lessons from The Millionaire Next Door

34:38 – Dreamscaping and defining what financial freedom actually looks like

37:11 – The surprising mentor who helped Paul most

40:33 – Where to find Paul Hickey

Legacywealthmg.com

Paul@hickey.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulchickey/

Instagram: @ampedsuccess

Website: Ampedsuccess.com

Email: admin@ampedsuccess.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-uhler-a9896612/

If you'd like to be a guest on What's Your Deal? or are interested in sponsoring an episode, reach out to: admin@ampedsuccess.com

Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. It helps more people discover the show.

In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt sits down with Carlos Salguero, President and Founder of CS3 Investments, to break down why multifamily real estate isn't just "real estate"—it's an income-producing business.

Carlos shares his journey from growing up in Ecuador working in his family's print shop to building and exiting multiple businesses, and ultimately scaling into commercial multifamily—now totaling 1,900+ doors. Together, Matt and Carlos connect the dots between buying businesses and buying properties, including how experienced operators find opportunities in deals that developers often leave on the table.

They also walk through the mindset shift many entrepreneurs face after realizing that owning rentals can turn into the "triple T's" (tenants, toilets, and termites)… and how syndications can provide a more truly passive route for business owners looking to diversify beyond their primary company.

Timestamps:

00:16 – Introducing Carlos Salguero: From Ecuador to 1,900+ Multifamily Doors

02:42 – Why Multifamily Is Just Another Income-Producing Business

05:26 – From Duplexes to Class A Trophy Assets

06:36 – $150M Acquired in 15 Months: Scale & Strategy

09:03 – The "Triple T's" (Tenants, Toilets & Termites) vs. True Passive Investing

12:14 – Why Carlos Invests His Own Capital First

15:37 – Ownership Mentality & Aligning the Team

16:56 – Early Lessons: Working for Free to Build Equity in Relationships

23:03 – Finding the McKenzie Deal (251 Units, Class A)

25:30 – Why the Deal Fell Out of Contract (Twice)

27:30 – Hidden Value: Monetizing Amenities & Missed Income Streams

31:15 – Buying Multifamily Like a Business (NOI = EBITDA)

32:59 – Conservative Debt & Avoiding Lender "Re-Trades"

35:05 – Inside a $72M Acquisition Structure

37:30 – Operational Upside & Rent Growth Strategy

40:21 – Gratitude, Faith & Parental Influence

45:05 – Final Takeaways: Never Forget Who Helped You Get There

Website: https://www.ampedsuccess.com

General Inquiries: admin@ampedsuccess.com

Follow Matt & Amped Success:

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

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/amped-success

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

Website: https://www.cs3investments.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cssalguero/

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

If you have a deal you'd like to break down on the podcast, a business story worth sharing, or are interested in sponsoring an episode of What's Your Deal?, we'd love to connect.

Reach out directly at: admin@ampedsuccess.com

Never miss an episode. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen.

If you found this episode valuable, please leave a review — it helps more entrepreneurs and investors discover the show.

In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt sits down with John Bowens, Director of Head of Education & Investor Success at Equity Trust, to break down one of the most overlooked wealth tools for entrepreneurs and investors: self-directed retirement accounts.

John explains what "self-directed" actually means, why most retirement money stays locked in mutual funds by default, and how investors can use IRAs, 401(k)s (and even HSAs) to invest in real estate, private lending, private equity, pre-IPO stock, cryptocurrency, and precious metals—all while keeping the tax advantages of retirement accounts.

They also dive into the ROBS (Rollover for Business Startups) structure and how some buyers use retirement funds to acquire a business without triggering taxes and penalties—plus the common mistakes and prohibited transaction rules that can trip people up if they don't understand the guardrails.

If you've ever wondered how to put your retirement money to work in the assets you actually understand—this episode is your roadmap.

Timestamps:

1:30 – What Equity Trust does + what "self-directed" means

3:40 – John's background and how he got into this industry

6:40 – Why investors choose self-directed accounts (diversification + taxes)

9:20 – Clearing up a misconception: contributing vs investing

12:15 – Liquidity: short-term vs long-term alternative investing

16:50 – Matching strategy to age, goals, and skill set

20:20 – ROBS overview: using retirement funds to buy a business

29:50 – Costs + when it does/doesn't make sense financially

38:45 – Common mistakes + prohibited transactions

41:30 – John's "hand up" story + mentors

Resources & Links

Connect with John:

Website: https://www.trustetc.com

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

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-bowens/

Connect with Matt:

Follow Us on Social Media

Instagram: @AmpedSuccess

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-uhler-a9896612/

Tiktok: @Ampedsuccess

YouTube: @AmpedSuccess

📧 Contact Us: admin@ampedsuccess.com

In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt Uhler interviews Larry Yatch — former U.S. Navy SEAL officer turned entrepreneur strategist and high-performance coach — about the unseen survival patterns that drive decisions in business, money, leadership, and relationships.

Larry explains why most people misunderstand trauma: it's not about the event — it's about the subconscious strategy your brain adopts to survive when your perception of control is taken away. Those strategies can create success… but they can also create burnout, misalignment, and self-sabotage if they remain unrecognized.

Matt ties this directly to what he sees in real deals: sellers backing out at the finish line, leaders who can't rest even when they "have everything," and entrepreneurs who keep grinding because their subconscious equates love, worth, or identity with pain.

If you're building a business, leading a team, negotiating deals, or trying to grow your income — this conversation will help you understand what might be running the show underneath your conscious intentions.

0:01 Intro + Larry Yatch background

2:57 SEALs, injury, entrepreneurship as "freedom" (and why that's often a lie)

10:25 Trauma: why most people hear the word wrong

11:54 Trauma comes from survival, not the experience

14:34 "Perception of control" and how survival lessons get formed

17:21 Subconscious vs conscious: why we feel stuck

20:35 Deals falling apart: sellers torpedoing outcomes

22:05 Trauma size = dysfunction today (not what happened)

26:35 Creating external fights to validate internal struggle

28:30 CEO trauma as the limiter of a "structurally sound" company

30:11 The 4 domains where trauma shows up (money, relationships, health, purpose)

33:22 You don't need to relive the worst moments to change behaviors

36:19 SEAL story: fighting to deploy — why perception of control matters

40:00 Matt's personal story: success rising, panic rising

46:27 Where to find Larry + his work (financial trauma)

48:04 Gratitude + who helped Larry start healing

Resources & Links

Connect with Larry:

Website: https://financialtruepath.com

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/larryyatch

https://www.instagram.com/larryyatch

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/larryyatch

trupathmastery.com

Connect with Matt:

Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here

Follow Us on Social Media

Instagram: @AmpedSuccess

LinkedIn: Amped Success

Tiktok: @Ampedsuccess

YouTube: @AmpedSuccess

📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com

In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt Uhler sits down with Colton Imming, to unpack what it really looks like to leave a W2 career behind, bet on yourself, and step into business ownership.

Colton shares his path to a private equity environment that rewarded performance — and how a long-term plan with his wife, Katie, helped them prioritize freedom, family, and control over their time. That journey eventually led to Colton partnering with two others to build a holding company focused on acquiring and stewarding small businesses.

From there, the conversation goes into the real-world lessons you only learn after closing: why proximity matters, what happens when you lose a major client, why "easy upside" improvements like adding a CRM can be a much heavier lift than expected, and the critical importance of being well-capitalized so you're making decisions for the long-term — not just trying to survive payroll.

Matt and Colton also discuss a topic buyers rarely hear addressed openly: the reality of working with the listing broker when there's no separate buyer representation, and how trust, communication, and education can make or break the process.

To close, Colton gives a high-level preview of his perspective on Bitcoin — not as a trend, but as a deeper conversation about money, value, and long-term thinking — and shares who gave him a "hand up" on his path.

Timestamps:

00:16 – Colton's background (E&Y → PE → family-first move)

03:25 – Leaving the W2 ladder: mindset + planning for freedom

08:16 – Quitting PE: notice, golden handcuffs, betting on himself

11:06 – Starting an accounting firm + investing alongside it

12:29 – Forming the 3-partner holding company (CEO/COO/CFO lanes)

16:57 – What they looked for in an acquisition (local + recurring revenue)

18:48 – Lessons after closing: trucks/fleet, culture upgrades, professionalism

25:40 – Tech + systems: CRM implementation is heavier than expected

29:56 – Losing a major client + why working capital matters

33:00 – Listing broker dynamic: buyer-side trust + efficiency

41:35 – Colton's advice to buyers: capitalization > everything

43:42 – Bitcoin philosophy: money, value, and long-term thinking

49:28 – "Hand up" gratitude segment + closing

Resources & Links

Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here

Follow Us on Social Media

Instagram: @AmpedSuccess

LinkedIn: Amped Success

Tiktok: @Ampedsuccess

YouTube: @AmpedSuccess

📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com

In this special "Deal or No Deal" episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt sits down with returning guest Keith Sklarsky to dissect a real $5.5 million logistics business — and decide whether it's worth pursuing.

On paper, the business checks some important boxes: multi-million dollar revenue, strong recent growth, and nearly $1 million in projected discretionary earnings. But as Matt and Keith dig deeper, the red flags begin to surface.

From fluctuating earnings and aggressive marketing spend to questionable independent contractor classifications and unrealistic valuation multiples, this episode is a masterclass in disciplined deal evaluation.

If you're considering buying a business — or want to avoid making a million-dollar mistake — this conversation will help you think like a seasoned operator.

Timestamps

02:10 – Why real deal breakdowns matter

04:30 – Overview of the $5.5M logistics brokerage

06:00 – First guardrails: region, size, and impact

09:45 – Revenue growth vs. sustainability

11:00 – SDE vs EBITDA — which metric matters?

12:30 – Independent contractors vs employees (major red flag)

17:00 – Risk, audits, and payroll exposure

18:45 – Marketing spend: $1.2M+ — scalable or dangerous?

22:30 – The importance of core competency

23:20 – Line-by-line financial analysis

25:30 – Understanding add-backs (and when not to accept them)

29:00 – Expense inconsistencies and anomalies

31:30 – Human resources and family dynamics in acquisitions

36:00 – Financial feasibility and debt service reality

40:00 – Valuation multiples that don't pencil

42:30 – Capital deployment strategy: Is this the best use of funds?

46:45 – Final Vote: Deal or No Deal?

48:00 – Gratitude, partnership, and paying it forward

Resources & Links

Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here

Follow Us on Social Media

Instagram: @AmpedSuccess

LinkedIn: Amped Success

Tiktok: @Ampedsuccess

YouTube: @AmpedSuccess

📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com

In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt Uhler sits down with Keira Hamilton, a former high school English teacher with a master's in education from UC Berkeley who made an unexpected leap into business ownership.

Keira and her husband bought their first business — a San Francisco laundromat — in 2023, learned fast why "passive income" is often a myth, and then sold the laundromat in 2024 after improving systems and operations to make the business more transferable. From there, they moved to San Diego and acquired their next business: Sunshine Window Cleaning, an off-market service company they found through cold outreach.

Keira breaks down what most buyers underestimate (especially proximity, staffing realities, and operating complexity), how transparency builds trust in a transaction, and why "perfect certainty" isn't a requirement to buy — but courage, skill-building, and runway management are.

If you're exploring your first acquisition, thinking about "semi-absentee" ownership, or trying to understand what makes a business easier to buy, run, and sell — this one is packed with real-world insight.

Timestamps:

0:16 – Meet Keira Hamilton: teacher → business owner

2:16 – Pivot from real estate to buying a business

5:27 – Finding the laundromat + broker challenges

8:02 – Cash offers, family financing & SBA realities

12:36 – Valuation: art vs science + speed matters

14:24 – Laundromat myth-busting & proximity lessons

19:23 – Why they sold the laundromat after 16 months

22:18 – Selling fast through transparency & systems

25:24 – Increasing value with SOPs and organization

32:38 – Off-market window cleaning acquisition

35:38 – Knowing when to stop searching & take the leap

44:10 – No industry experience & surviving the transition

50:55 – Working with a spouse + partnership lessons

55:59 – Gratitude, support systems & final takeaways

Connect with Keira:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/keirahamilton?

https://sunshinewindowcleaningsd.com/

https://www.instagram.com/ahigherflow?igsh=MXM5aXV2YjFyZDljYQ==

https://www.instagram.com/sunshinewindowcleaningsd?igsh=ZWE5c3djazBwMjE3

https://youtube.com/@keira_hamilton?si=WJy79JRLHIcr_GCO

Follow Us on Social Media

Instagram: @AmpedSuccess

LinkedIn: Amped Success

Tiktok: @Ampedsuccess

YouTube: @AmpedSuccess

📧 Contact Us:

Interested in sponsorship opportunities or being a guest on What's Your Deal? Email info@ampedsuccess.com

Most business owners spend years building something valuable — yet never prepare it to be sold.

In this shorter episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt Uhler and Sarah Rainwater break down why exit readiness is one of the most overlooked (and most powerful) strategies in business ownership. Preparing your business for exit isn't just about selling — it's about running a healthier, more profitable, and more valuable business today, while preserving the option to exit when and how you choose.

Matt shares real-world experience from decades of buying, selling, and advising business owners, including why most businesses are not ready to sell when owners think they are, how small financial decisions multiply at exit, and why time and preparation dramatically change outcomes.

Whether exit is on your radar now or years away, this conversation will help you start thinking like an owner — not just an operator — and treat your business like the asset it truly is.

Timestamps:

00:16 – Why exit readiness matters for every business owner

00:51 – The role of repetition ("reps") in building strong businesses

01:40 – Running a business like it will be sold

02:39 – Matt's journey from janitorial business to business ownership

03:43 – The "silver tsunami" and missed exit opportunities

04:20 – Why businesses are assets, not just jobs

05:26 – The untapped world of business buying and selling

06:26 – Why exit readiness impacts retirement outcomes

07:30 – Why valuation reality matters

08:16 – The importance of knowing where your business truly stands

08:59 – How long exit preparation really takes

10:19 – Why coaching and accountability change results

11:55 – Seeing blind spots and staying on track

12:47 – Operating for ownership vs. operating for exit

13:34 – What happens when owners wait too long

14:45 – Why owners delay exit preparation

16:01 – What's included in an exit readiness evaluation

17:40 – Financial mistakes that reduce exit value

18:36 – How multiples amplify financial decisions

19:21 – Monthly coaching, KPIs, and value creation

20:11 – When and how to start preparing for exit

21:45 – Where to learn more about exit readiness

Follow Us on Social Media

Instagram: @AmpedSuccess

LinkedIn: Amped Success

Tiktok: @Ampedsuccess

YouTube: @AmpedSuccess

📧 Contact Us:

Interested in sponsorship opportunities or being a guest on What's Your Deal? Email info@ampedsuccess.com

In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt breaks down real estate through the lens of business acquisition with August Biniaz, Co-Founder and CIO of CPI Capital.

This conversation goes beyond property investing and gets into what it really means to acquire, operate, and scale assets like a business.

August shares how he evaluates deals, raises capital, structures deals, and manages risk—principles that directly mirror buying operating companies, not just real estate.

00:16 Meet August Biniaz + CPI Capital overview

01:55 From broker → fix & flips → becoming the GC

03:25 Homebuilding in Vancouver/Toronto and the desire to scale

04:05 Why August moved into private equity + the motivation behind CPI

05:25 Why CPI pivoted toward U.S. deals for Canadian investors

07:17 Funds vs. syndications: how the capital-raise process works

08:48 Why CPI likes multifamily: demand, rent-to-value ratios, and scale

13:12 CPI's strategy: multifamily value-add and "forced appreciation"

16:24 Build-to-rent (BTR): what it is and how CPI approaches it

19:55 Stabilization timelines and what "lease-up" really looks like

21:26 CPI's BTR approach: partnering locally + selling to investor buyers

22:10 Timelines: entitlements, permits, and project milestones

24:27 Structuring deals: SPVs, U.S. master fund + Canadian feeder fund

25:46 Tax complexity, investor psychology, and cross-border challenges

28:49 When deals fall apart—and why walking away can be the best move

31:33 2026 goals: deal flow challenges and where opportunity is forming

34:17 1031 exchanges: do exchange buyers impact CPI's acquisitions?

36:26 Who helped August most: his mother + early lessons on real estate

Connect with August:

Follow Us on Social Media

Instagram: @AmpedSuccess

LinkedIn: Amped Success

Tiktok: @Ampedsuccess

YouTube: @AmpedSuccess

📧 Contact Us:

Interested in sponsorship opportunities or being a guest on What's Your Deal? Email info@ampedsuccess.com

In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt sits down with returning guest Dana DeVito, coach and consultant with Elite Performance Associates, to tackle one of the most common — and costly — problems business owners face: becoming the bottleneck in their own business.

Many owners start their companies because they're great technicians. But as the business grows, that same strength becomes the very thing that limits scale, profitability, and freedom. Dana and Matt unpack why owners struggle to let go, how perfectionism and micromanagement quietly hold businesses hostage, and why delegation without accountability always fails.

If you want a business that can grow, operate, and eventually sell without you being involved in everything, this episode is a must-listen.

Timestamps:

01:00 – Why owners become bottlenecks without realizing it

02:30 – Technician vs. owner mindset

04:30 – Perfectionism and the fear of letting go

06:30 – Micromanagement: when it helps and when it hurts

08:30 – "I can outwork anyone… but not everyone"

9:00 – The dopamine hit of being the hero

12:00 – How owners create their own burnout

13:30 – Why businesses improve when owners step away

15:00 – Building people instead of controlling outcomes

17:00 – Replacing yourself without losing relevance

19:30 – Delegation, accountability, and leadership discipline

22:00 – Where owners should actually spend their time

24:55 – Why checking boxes feels productive but isn't

27:00 – The "plate spinner" analogy for leadership

28:50 – Motivation vs. discipline

31:00 – Why coaches matter at every level

34:00 – Small steps that unlock big change

36:00 – Building discipline through repetition

39:00 – Stacking wins and avoiding burnout

43:00 – Gratitude, mentorship, and giving others a hand up

49:00 – Final thoughts on bottlenecks and ownership

Connect with Dana:

Instagram: @dana_devito

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dana-devito/

eliteperformanceassociates.com

Dana@eliteperformanceassociates.com

Follow Us on Social Media

Instagram: @AmpedSuccess

LinkedIn: Amped Success

Tiktok: @Ampedsuccess

YouTube: @AmpedSuccess

📧 Contact Us:

Interested in sponsorship opportunities or being a guest on What's Your Deal? Email info@ampedsuccess.com

In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt sits down with Maxwell Nee, Chairman of Family Office Insider. Maxwell specializes in capital structuring, partnerships, and large-scale growth opportunities.

Maxwell shares how he moved from an unfulfilling corporate banking career into high-level dealmaking across industries like renewable energy, mining, waste processing, and advertising. This conversation dives deep into the mindset behind raising capital, structuring partnerships that actually work, and why clarity, resourcefulness, and communication matter more than money.

Timestamps:

01:20 – Maxwell's background and Family Office Insider

03:40 – Core competency and knowing your role

05:30 – Why partnerships get a bad reputation

08:32 – Deal-making mindset and resourcefulness

13:50 – Capital raising mistakes entrepreneurs make

18:40 – Why subtlety beats aggressive pitching

21:25 – Fun, freedom, flexibility — and thinking bigger

26:20 – Why large deals are often smoother

30:10 – Structuring growth and expansion capital

37:37 – Why raising capital is a full-time job

40:30 – Transparency, bad news, and investor trust

43:15 – Mentorship, patterns, and long-term success

Resources & Links

Connect with Maxwell:

Instagram: @maxwellprincenee

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxwellnee/

Connect with Matt:

Instagram: @AmpedSuccess

LinkedIn: Amped Success

Tiktok: @Ampedsuccess

YouTube: @AmpedSuccess

Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Email admin@ampedsuccess.com

In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt Uhler sits down with Eric Tastet, whose journey took him from 20 years in ministry to becoming VP of Client Strategy at Aspire Tour—and the lead instructor for Aspire's Tax-Free Crypto Education program.

Eric breaks down what he's learned about human dynamics, why most people get stuck in "learning" instead of actually taking action, and how relational equity is often the real currency behind influence and results. They also dig into the mindset shift between being a contributor vs. a creator, why consistency beats motivation every time, and how self-directed strategies can open the door to building wealth with more ownership and intention.

Timestamps:

00:16 Meet Eric: ministry background + current role at Aspire Tour

01:15 Transitioning from ministry to business (and why it happened)

04:13 "Now I know why you're there…" (real talk moment)

05:35 Eric's two roles at Aspire: client strategy + crypto education

09:15 Human dynamics: why people get stuck and how to change trajectories

12:51 Culture shapes perspective

15:24 Relational equity: "Win the person before you win the argument"

19:07 The gym membership analogy: why people don't get results

24:29 Knowledge vs. wisdom: "You can't gain wisdom without experience"

27:49 Ownership creates accountability—and growth pains are real

29:44 Contributor vs. creator + Blue Ocean Strategy (Cirque du Soleil example)

33:50 Balance + time management while traveling constantly

39:00 Tax-Free Crypto explained simply

44:16 Gratitude + mentorship: who helped Eric most

49:40 Wrap-up + how to be a guest on the show

Resources & Links

Connect with Eric on X - @TFC_Guy

website - www.taxfreecrypto.com

Connect with Matt:

Instagram: @AmpedSuccess

LinkedIn: Amped Success

Tiktok: @Ampedsuccess

YouTube: @AmpedSuccess

Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Email admin@ampedsuccess.com

In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt is joined again by one of our most-listened-to guests, Lindsay Denton. For the past seven years, Lindsay has worked side by side with Matt arranging financing for business acquisitions inside the brokerage. Now, through Amped Funding Advisors, she is assisting buyers and sellers nationwide structure deals for approval and funding.

They break down why business financing is nothing like getting a car loan or a mortgage, why SBA loans come with so many rules, and how to navigate those rules without losing your mind or your deal. Lindsay walks through what really goes into a strong lending "package," why projections and business plans matter so much, and how her team scrubs deals before an underwriter ever sees them.

Timestamps:

01:29 Brokerage financing vs. nationwide funding advisory: what's different

03:15 What's in a "package"? Buyer/seller financials, skeletons in the closet, and sourcing funds

04:55 Why you can't just walk into an SBA lender and apply like a normal loan

06:15 Real example: insurance triples mid-deal and blows up projections

07:00 Scrubbing documents, liens on homes/portfolios, and avoiding ugly surprises

10:05 Projections & business plans: building lender-ready stories buyers can simply edit

14:50 Deal killers vs. preparation: how experience keeps deals from dying

18:25 Biggest mistakes buyers make: liquidity, IRAs, borrowed funds, HELOCs, gift money

21:33 SBA rules vs. conventional loans — and why lenders often prefer the SBA guarantee

24:55 COVID-era financials, timing, cash vs. SBA, and why operating capital is everything

30:30 Why SBA forces better homework and leads to fewer defaults than seller carry/cash-only

33:46 How to start with Lindsay: discovery calls, vetting deals, and 60–90 day expectations

38:21 How to contact Lindsay & why brokerage experience gives Amped Funding Advisors an edge

40:09 Paying it forward: helping her stepson launch a trailer rental business

Resources & Links

Connect with Lindsay: lindsay@ampedsuccess.com

https://ampedsuccess.com/amped-funding-advisors/

Connect with Matt:

Instagram: @AmpedSuccess

LinkedIn: Amped Success

Tiktok: @Ampedsuccess

YouTube: @AmpedSuccess

Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Email admin@ampedsuccess.com

In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt sits down with close friend and colleague Steve Williams, CEO of Aspire Family Bank, to unpack a powerful alternative to traditional estate planning: the Family Bank.

Steve shares his journey from growing up in generational poverty to climbing the corporate ladder— and then walking away to build a boutique real estate development firm with his wife. Along the way, he learned the hard lessons of leadership, doing hard things, and raising kids who have accountability instead of entitlement.

Covering topics like—why whole life insurance are the only vehicles that truly power Family Banks. Steve explains how families can create generational security (not just generational wealth). You'll hear how family constitutions, governance, and loan-based support can give your kids a "silver hammer instead of a silver spoon"—so they build their own purpose, while your legacy lives on for generations.

00:16 – Meet Steve Williams: Corporate background & entrepreneurial shift

02:13 – Corporate structure vs. creativity and accountability

05:15 – Moving from sales to sales leadership at Sprint

06:20 – Becoming the youngest district manager & leading older teams

07:49 – Hard conversations, performance plans, and leadership grit

09:45 – Teaching kids to "do hard things" and build resilience

12:39 – Why doing everything for your kids robs them of fulfillment

13:25 – What a Family Bank is: Rockefeller vs. Vanderbilt

17:15 – Why whole life insurance powers a Family Bank

19:58 – Policies on each child & how loans get repaid

22:31 – Family culture, accountability, and generational responsibility

26:19 – Steve's epiphany: The missing piece in traditional estate planning

30:39 – Loans vs. handouts: The "silver hammer" philosophy

32:39 – Peace of mind and living well while you're alive

38:10 – Who can (and should) start a Family Bank?

Resources & Links

Connect with Steve: familyconstitution@aspire4more.com

Connect with Matt:

Instagram: @AmpedSuccess

LinkedIn: Amped Success

Tiktok: @Ampedsuccess

YouTube: @AmpedSuccess

Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here

📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com

In this heartfelt episode, Matt sits down with his wife, Audrey Uhler, for an unfiltered conversation about marriage, blended family life, and the realities of running multiple businesses together. They share how they've navigated financial stress, busy travel schedules, parenting transitions, and the constant pull between work and family.

Matt and Audrey open up about what it takes to keep both a marriage and a business thriving through seasons of change. They also talk about the emotional shift that comes with an emptying nest, rediscovering purpose, and dreaming up their next chapter together.

00:00 – Introduction

03:07 – Dating an Entrepreneur

05:10 – From Single Parents to Blended Family

09:04 – Working Vacations That Actually Work

11:40 – The Excitement and Exhaustion of the Deal Life

13:54 – The Swamp Leak Story

18:41 – The "Fun-Money" System

20:45 – Empty-Nest Emotions & New Identity

24:04 – Vision vs. Logic

34:25 – Designing Their Desired End State

37:10 – The "Hand-Up" Question

Resources & Links

Connect with Audrey on Instagram: @audreyuhler

Connect with Matt:

Instagram: @AmpedSuccess

LinkedIn: Amped Success

Tiktok: @Ampedsuccess

YouTube: @AmpedSuccess

Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here

📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com

In this episode, Matt sits down with longtime friends Steve and Michele Sullins — two powerhouse restaurateurs who've built, bought, and sold multiple restaurants and retail stores over the past 35 years. Michelle started with a coffee cart in Sedona and grew it into a thriving restaurant empire, while Steve worked his way up from dishwasher to opening restaurants for major resort brands like Hyatt and Loews.

Together, they've mastered the balance of systems, leadership, and partnership — both in business and marriage. From promoting employees into management to scaling multiple locations at once, they share how they've built lasting success in one of the toughest industries around.

Now, they're taking that experience to Prescott with The Copper Note, their newest concept bringing elevated, scratch-made "world comfort food" to the downtown Prescott area.

Timestamps:

0:00 – Intro and why Steve & Michele chose restaurants in the first place

3:34 – Michele's first restaurant purchase in Sedona

4:25 – How she knew it was time to sell

5:09 – Building a 6–7k sq ft restaurant from scratch

8:10 – Opening restaurants inside major resorts (scale, budgets, staffing)

10:14 – Bringing corporate systems into a mom-and-pop shop

11:46 – Launching a business together (and becoming partners)

13:40 – How they work as a married team without clashing

16:33 – Running multiple restaurants and multiple retail stores at once

17:51 – Their leadership structure and how they build a team

20:13 – Promoting from within vs. hiring outsiders

22:58 – How they train and grow future managers

25:30 – Selling Sedona locations and moving to Prescott

28:02 – Why they bought (not built) the new Prescott location

30:39 – The Copper Note: concept, menu, and "world comfort food"

31:12 – Reusing what works from past successful menus

32:35 – Why location matters more than most buyers realize

34:31 – The lifecycle of a restaurant and when to rebrand

37:16 – Is year one really the "best year" for a restaurant?

39:25 – Their full pre-opening / relaunch process (mock runs, critique, soft open)

44:38 – Who gave them a hand up and shaped how they lead

Resources & Links

Connect with Michele and Steve on Instagram: @thecoppernote

Connect with Matt:

Instagram: @AmpedSuccess

LinkedIn: Amped Success

Tiktok: @Ampedsuccess

YouTube: @AmpedSuccess

Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here

📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com

Matt shares the origin story behind his career in business brokerage and ownership: growing up with a single mom working seven days a week, taking third-shift janitorial work at 13, and starting his first company at 17. A shop teacher's nudge ("why not start a business doing what you already know?") led to a janitorial company that scaled from one account to 40 employees across New Hampshire and Massachusetts.

That first exit came with hard lessons—especially around reading P&Ls and not letting the business "run" the owner. The sale also revealed a bigger truth Matt has seen for 27 years: buying a good business can change a family's trajectory overnight. Since then he's completed over 800+ deals, evaluated thousands more, and taken ownership stakes in 35+ companies (about 20 active today), partnering with "boots-on-the-ground" operators and stepping in most deeply when there's a fire to put out.

Matt talks balance, rhythm, and family. Ownership gives freedom to choose where to spend time—but responsibility can't be delegated. Matt's vision for Amped Success is simple: turn 27 years of lessons into one-to-many education so buyers and sellers avoid preventable pain and make better, faster decisions.

Timestamps:

02:00 – Early Work Ethic — Single-mom household, third-shift janitor at 13

05:03 – First Company at 17 — Teacher's advice, starting a janitorial business

07:45 – Scaling & Lessons — From 1 account to 40 employees; P&L wake-up call

09:08 – First Exit & Insight — Corporate buyer "buys a job"; why buying works

10:45 – 27 Years Brokering — 800+ transactions, 35+ ownerships, 20 active

13:50 – What Brokers Actually Do — Valuation, financeability, structure, licenses

17:20 – One-to-Many Vision — Why Amped Success exists

20:50 – Partnership Model — Boots-on-the-ground operators, when Matt dives in

26:30 – Hardest Seasons — 2008–10 crash, inventory vanishing mid-deal

29:30 – Emotions in a Deal — Families, kids on payroll, employment agreements

33:50 – Favorite Win — From no cash to multi-business millionaires in ~10 years

36:50 – Balance & Rhythm — Boundaries, identity, responsibility vs. authority

46:55 – Why Amped — Giving back; education that prevents costly mistakes

50:00 – Mentors & Inflection Points — Teachers, Tony Robbins, sobriety decision

Resources & Links

Connect with Matt:

Instagram: @AmpedSuccess

LinkedIn: Amped Success

Tiktok: @Ampedsuccess

YouTube: @AmpedSuccess

Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here

📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com

Today we welcome Dana De Vito, a longtime business owner, franchise operator, and co-founder of Elite Performance Associates. From owning Jack in the Box and Scooter's Coffee franchises to coaching business leaders, Dana shares his insights on responsible growth, the difference between consulting and coaching, and why defining a desired end statematters more than tactics. This conversation digs into lessons learned from franchising, building culture, and balancing ambition with life outside of business.

Timestamps:

00:01 – Intro & welcome to the show

00:32 – Meet Dana De Vito: from teacher-track to consulting

03:02 – Moving to Prescott & buying Jack in the Box franchises

04:55 – Lessons from fast food ownership & team development

06:03 – The ups and downs of franchising relationships

07:36 – Why Scooter's Coffee: leadership culture & systems

10:10 – Consulting vs. coaching: the real difference

13:38 – Why some owners act—and others never do

18:14 – Crisis survival: losing 97% of revenue & bouncing back

20:50 – Expanding reach: writing books & people-first profits

24:30 – Speed kills: when growth gets ahead of control

27:48 – Start with desired end state, not tactics

28:50 – Matt's personal lesson: ambition vs. family balance

38:15 – Who believed in Dana: lessons from his parents

43:33 – Closing thoughts & how to connect with Dana

Resources & Links

Connect with Dana:

Instagram: @dana_devito

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dana-devito/

eliteperformanceassociates.com

Dana@eliteperformanceassociates.com

Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here

Follow Us on Social Media

Instagram: @AmpedSuccess

LinkedIn: Amped Success

Tiktok: @Ampedsuccess

YouTube: @AmpedSuccess

📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com

In part two of our series on preparing your business for sale, Matt is once again joined by Lindsay Denton. Together they dive deep into the often-overlooked details that can make or break a deal: commingled entities, lease negotiations with landlords, environmental and maintenance concerns, and the importance of correctly titled assets.

Packed with real-world stories, hard-earned lessons, and practical strategies, this conversation is a must-listen for business owners looking to maximize their exit value — and for buyers who want to understand the hidden risks behind the numbers.

2:25 – Preparing for sale: beyond financials into entity structures

3:45 – The problem with commingled entities (and how it kills deals)

7:20 – Real-life examples: when businesses can't be valued or financed

10:00 – How separation delays, amendments, and CPA involvement stall deals

12:00 – The effects of messy financials and tax returns

16:05 – Landlord dynamics: renewals, greed, and lease assignments

19:10 – How one owner lost a million-dollar asset to a landlord decision

21:00 – Securing leases: timing, documentation, and buyer confidence

25:15 – Environmental concerns, site visits, and being "guest ready"

26:50 – First impressions matter: maintenance, lighting, and presentation

29:40 – Titling of assets: vehicles, real estate, and estate issues

32:30 – Costly mistakes when titles aren't transferred properly

34:30 – Education and preparation: why the little things matter most

37:00 – Closing thoughts and preview of the buyer-preparation series

Resources & Links

Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here

Follow Us on Social Media

Instagram: @AmpedSuccess

LinkedIn: Amped Success

Tiktok: @Ampedsuccess

YouTube: @AmpedSuccess

📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com

Part 1 of a two-episode series on preparing your business for sale. Today, Matt is joined by Lindsay Denton (Financing Specialist at WCI Business Brokers) to break down what sellers must have dialed in before they list.

Timestamps:

1:00 – Why seller preparation matters

3:10 – Business financing vs. home financing

5:50 – The importance of organized financials

7:55 – Real-world examples of deals derailed

15:10 – When sellers change their minds mid-process

19:30 – Hidden obligations & underlying debt issues

23:15 – Momentum: keeping deals moving forward

26:30 – Seasonality, stale financials & timing mistakes

32:30 – P&L vs. tax return mismatches

36:45 – Inventory adjustments & self-induced problems

41:00 – Add-backs 101: what counts and what doesn't

46:00 – Non-bankable expenses (ads, trade shows, etc.)

48:50 – Off-books income & why it destroys value

51:30 – Gratitude question & Lindsay's story

Resources & Links

Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here

Follow Us on Social Media

Instagram: @AmpedSuccess

LinkedIn: Amped Success

Tiktok: @Ampedsuccess

YouTube: @AmpedSuccess

📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com

In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt sits down with Cristian Cruz, a former Miami firefighter who walked away from a secure career and pension to pursue entrepreneurship and business ownership. Cristian shares his bold decision to leave behind stability for opportunity, his first steps into startups, and why he's now focused on buying an established business instead of building from scratch.

This candid conversation dives into risk, motivation, family legacy, and how Cristian is approaching his first acquisition with patience, direction, and clarity. If you've ever wondered what it takes to leave the safety of a W2 job and step into the uncertain but rewarding world of business ownership, you'll find inspiration and practical lessons here.

0:16 – Introducing guest Cristian Cruz and his background

1:49 – Becoming a Miami firefighter at 21 and "winning the lottery" career

4:02 – Starting his first business in credit repair

5:26 – Jumping from a secure W2 to entrepreneurship

6:32 – Understanding risk: firefighting vs. business ownership

8:10 – Hitting the career ceiling and choosing entrepreneurship instead

10:00 – Why Cristian shifted from startups to buying an existing business

12:14 – The overwhelm of too much information when starting the search

13:43 – Discovering the cleaning industry as a realistic acquisition target

14:50 – Matt explains the Buyer's Acquisition Formula

16:46 – Learning to compress timelines by asking questions and seeking mentors

18:32 – Realizing acquisitions take longer than expected

20:00 – Avoiding deadline pressure and rushed decisions

21:47 – How Cristian is sustaining himself financially during the search

23:29 – Different circumstances: supporting a family vs. pursuing solo

24:50 – Why Cristian prefers direct outreach over online business listings

28:56 – Stacking capital and preparing for a larger acquisition

30:10 – Matt shares his roots in the janitorial industry and how it led to brokerage

31:20 – The role of family and parents' sacrifices in Cristian's motivation

36:40 – Biggest lesson learned: not every "guru" is worth listening to

38:34 – Compressing time by learning from others' mistakes

Resources & Links

Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here

Follow Us on Social Media

Instagram: @AmpedSuccess

LinkedIn: Amped Success

Tiktok: @Ampedsuccess

YouTube: @AmpedSuccess

📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com

In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt sits down with longtime client and friend Chad Cook—a true serial entrepreneur who has started, grown, and sold 12 businesses over the last 34 years. From his humble beginnings running a paper route and selling donuts to owning large-scale Family Fun Centers and a statewide Dippin' Dots distribution business, Chad shares the real stories behind his business ventures, including the wins, the lessons, and the near-bankrupt moments.

Matt and Chad discuss the strategic mindset required to build sellable businesses, the importance of family support and faith, and how Chad's ability to maintain calm and rhythm through both recession and rapid growth has led to a fulfilling life—personally and professionally. Whether you're an aspiring business owner or seasoned operator, Chad's story is a blueprint for creating legacy, freedom, and peace through entrepreneurship.

00:16 – Meet Chad Cook: 12 businesses, 34 years, and one donut-selling paper route

01:13 – How Chad built trust and relationships with buyers over the years

02:51 – Why Chad started his first business without a safety net

03:41 – Navigating weekends and family time in a Family Fun Center business

04:45 – A rundown of Chad's business ventures over the decades

06:49 – Building and operating Castle Golf and Freedom Station

08:21 – Making big financial commitments in capital-heavy businesses

10:40 – What is a game route business and why it's nearly passive

12:17 – Why game routes are one of the most passive models Chad's found

13:15 – Involving the kids: How Chad built family into his businesses

14:40 – Strategy or opportunity? How Chad chose his businesses

18:20 – Designing businesses to be sellable assets

19:18 – How Chad and Brenda decide when it's time to sell

20:50 – Why selling a business takes years—not months

24:38 – Treating businesses like kids: Chad's approach to growth and exits

25:44 – The importance of relationships in business and family

27:41 – Chad's toughest business challenge: The Great Recession

30:40 – Surviving on credit cards—and the decision to go debt-free

33:15 – How income-producing debt differs from consumer debt

35:50 – Selling a business to his son—and watching him scale it fast

39:00 – Balance or rhythm? Chad's approach to work-life integration

44:01 – Who gave Chad a hand up? The mentors and loved ones who believed in him

Resources & Links

Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here

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📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com

In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt Uhler sits down with David Davis—an academic-turned-entrepreneur who transitioned from a PhD and professorship in hospitality to launching not one, but three service-based businesses. David shares his real-world startup journey, including the shift away from higher ed, the grit it took to build Fuse Topline Solutions, Boundless Hospitality, and a commercial laundry operation, and the financial realities of building a business from scratch. This conversation is packed with wisdom on balancing family and business, managing investor relationships, and knowing when to pivot.

Timestamps:

00:01 – Introduction to David Davis and his extensive academic background

01:13 – David's early struggle with college and how it led him into hospitality

03:47 – Why academia lost its appeal and why he transitioned out

06:26 – The organic beginning of his first business

11:17 – How he manages his business today and its current success

12:13 – The second startup and the impact of economic shifts

14:46 – Why he pivoted into commercial laundry—and what makes the model viable

16:46 – Lessons learned from launching multiple startups

21:39 – What a realistic startup phase looks like

23:34 – The importance of involving your spouse and lessons from personal relationships

26:48 – Creating a family business dynamic and including his wife in key decisions

30:27 – His 12-month goals: profitability, expansion to Tulsa, and a scalable vision

33:20 – Why he's not chasing ambition but rather building resilience into his businesses

35:48 – His relationship with his investor and what a "strategic investor" really means

38:52 – Why banks weren't the answer and what he learned about funding

39:45 – Balancing time, family, and leadership—why intentionality matters

42:03 – Defining purpose and building accountability into your work

43:17 – Who helped him get here: from his parents to professors, bosses, and peers

47:20 – Final thoughts and appreciation for the power of team support

Resources & Links

Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here

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What happens when a former Microsoft exec trades the corporate fast track for small business ownership? In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt sits down with long-time friend and client Tim Lewis to explore his journey from tech giant to serial entrepreneur.

Tim shares how he left a thriving career at Microsoft, launched a consulting firm, built and scaled a web design agency using international talent, and ultimately found financial freedom by acquiring a niche e-commerce business serving veterans and military families.

Timestamps:

02:10 – Early career at Microsoft and discovering business ownership

05:00 – Leaving corporate life for Arizona and small business consulting

05:50 – Launching a web design agency without knowing how to code

08:15 – Scaling using offshore talent and building a global team

11:30 – Acquiring a business to grow fast

13:00 – Burnout, customer service issues, and quality-of-life tradeoffs

16:00 – Selling the web company and taking time off

17:00 – Evaluating businesses and what made him say no

19:30 – Buying the military decal business and scaling it

21:00 – Why reviews and customer service mattered more than tech

24:10 – Using automation and AI to streamline production

25:44 – Starting vs. buying a business: which is better?

27:50 – Advice on higher education and surviving AI's impact

30:00 – Work-life balance, flexible hours, and redefining success

34:40 – Who helped him most in his career

38:00 – His #1 rule for success: say yes and figure it out later

Resources & Links

Military Grapics - https://militarygraphics.com

Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here

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In this episode, Matt talks with Michael Yarnes about how he and his wife went from waiting tables to managing 750 rental units and owning 27 of their own. They cover starting during the 2008 crash, building a property management company with high standards, mentoring young entrepreneurs, and finding balance as a business-owning couple. A real conversation on grit, systems, and staying grounded while scaling.

Timestamps:

00:28 - Meet Michael Yarnes

4:35 – First rental property

8:25 – Establishing duplication

12:39 - Starting in property managemnt

14:08 – Client standards and turning down business

25:09 – Mentoring young entrepreneurs

30:00 – Climbing gyms and real estate ownership

38:15 – Hiring an operator and stepping into CEO role

40:00 – The Launch Pad and youth mentorship

43:30 – Navigating marriage and business together

47:00 – People who gave him a hand up

Resources & Links

Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here

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In this powerful follow-up episode, Dr. Mark Costes returns to unpack what happens when overachievers can't stop grinding—even when they've already "made it." Matt and Mark dive deep into the danger of moving the goalpost, why burnout is often disguised as ambition, and how business owners can either scale or stall based on their ability to let go. From lessons learned in private equity boardrooms to the truth behind blue-collar business rollups, this conversation blends hard-won wisdom with actionable insight.

If you're building, buying, or thinking about exiting a business—this episode is for you.

Timestamps:

00:18 – Recap of Part 1 & Self-Reflection as a Superpower

01:50 – Seasons of Business and Life: When to Grind vs. When to Let Go

03:50 – Story: The Business Owner Who Couldn't Stop (Even on His Deathbed)

05:31 – The Trap of Moving the Goalpost

06:40 – Why High Achievers Fear Reaching the Finish Line

09:37 – Grinding vs. Doing the Hard Mental Work

10:56 – Single Point of Failure: Why It Hurts Business Value

12:15 – Two Big Mistakes Owners Make Before Selling

14:26 – What Businesses Get the Highest Valuations

16:03 – Private Equity Boardrooms & the Scale Game

18:17 – Mike Rowe, Blue Collar Wealth & Trade-Based Rollups

20:00 – Matt's Personal Journey: From No Degree to Business Owner

22:20 – The Power of Real Estate & Organic Growth

22:50 – What's Next for AMPED Success

25:20 – Scaling Beyond Coaching Through Community & Courses

27:10 – Passing It On: Who Helped You Along the Way

28:24 – Where to Find Matt & Dr. Costes Online

Resources & Links

Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here

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Connect with Dr. Mark Costes

Instagram @drmarkcostes

📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com

Description:

In this powerful first part of a two-part series, Matt sits down with Dr. Mark Costes—dentist, entrepreneur, and founder of the Dental Success Institute and Dental Success Network. Mark shares the raw and inspiring journey from starting a small practice in Prescott Valley, Arizona to owning 16 dental offices. But this isn't just a success story—it's also a cautionary tale about burnout, loss of balance, and the wake-up call that changed everything.

You'll hear how Mark rebuilt his life and business after reaching his financial goals but feeling unfulfilled. He dives into the systems he created to regain health, family connection, and purpose—including his Four Futures framework that evaluates success beyond just the bottom line.

Whether you're a entrepreneur, or someone chasing success, this episode delivers real, practical insight about scaling, failing, and ultimately finding alignment.

Tune in next week for Part 2, where we go deeper into leadership, systems, and sustainable business growth.

Timestamps:

00:15 - Meet Dr. Mark Costes and His Journey from Dentist to Business Leader

01:55 - Building a Life in Prescott and Powerful Local Connections

03:26 - Reflecting on Family, Fatherhood, and Entrepreneurial Growth

05:00 - Mark's Start in Dentistry and Buying His First Practice

06:04 - Why He Chose Prescott Valley and the Strategy Behind It

06:30 - Scaling to 6 Practices and the Cracks That Emerged

07:15 - Losing Key People and Realizing He Wasn't Systemized

10:00 - From 6 to 16 Practices: What Worked and What Didn't

10:20 - Launching the Podcast and Building the Dental Success Empire

11:00 - Stats and Reach of Mark's Podcast After 10 Years

13:58 - Mark's First Business: Tacos, Cheeseburgers & an MBA

17:15 - Learning from Mistakes and Collapsing Time for Others

18:35 - Entrepreneurship, Burnout, and the Myth of Balance

20:00 - Hitting Financial Goals and Still Feeling Empty

21:45 - The Four Futures: Mind, Meaning, Muscle, and Money and How to Measure and Improve Each Quadrant

25:23 - Knowing When You're Out of Alignment and Resetting

26:50 - Outro and What's Coming in Part 2

Resources & Links

Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here

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Instagram @drmarkcostes

📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com

In this powerful episode, Matt sits down with longtime friend and business partner Jay Koller to unpack one of the most dramatic comeback stories in business ownership. Jay shares how he acquired Vision Collective — a high-stakes event production company — in late 2019, only to watch the entire industry collapse months later as COVID made live events illegal overnight.

What follows is a raw and inspiring look at survival, leadership, and the power of company culture. Jay opens up about losing over $4 million in business in a single week, the emotional weight of leading a team through crisis, and the creative pivots — from holographic graduations to trucking logistics — that kept Vision Collective alive.

He also shares how their values-first culture not only brought employees back, but turned key team members into owners and helped the business exceed its $10M goal in under five years.

If you've ever questioned whether you have what it takes to weather the storms of entrepreneurship, this one's for you.

[0:01] – Matt introduces guest Jay Kohler and their partnership

[2:50] – Jay's background in entertainment and theater

[4:01] – How Jay approached and acquired VX3 (roll-up acquisition)

[8:00] – COVID hits: $4M in lost events and a full business shutdown

[15:30] – SBA loan pressure and building an ownership group

[17:31] – Survival mode: pivoting into virtual events and cloud production

[23:45] – Pivoting into trucking and creative partnerships

[23:23] – Hosting concerts, benefit events and holographic graduations during COVID

[31:05] – Free rent, lender negotiations, and strategic financial moves

[35:00] – Jay's emotional burden as a leader during crisis

[41:15] – Vision Collective hits and exceeds the $10M goal

[42:23] – Jay's plan to strengthen the company for the future

[44:35] – Succession planning: giving ownership to key employees

[48:09] – Reflections on those who supported him during adversity

[50:15] – Jay's first business: burrito sales at 15 after crashing a car

[56:00] – Final reflections on passion, people, and showing up for your work

Resources & Links

Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here

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Today, I'm flying solo to walk through a question I get all the time:

"Should I leave my job and become a business owner?"

Or…

"Can I keep my W-2 job and run a business on the side?"

This episode is an honest gut-check — not just to motivate you, but to help you avoid buying a business that might not fit your lifestyle, income needs, or stress threshold.

✅ Being Self-Directed Is Non-Negotiable

When you're the owner, the buck stops with you. If you can't manage yourself or push through without someone else setting your goals, business ownership might not be the right next step.

✅ Business Owners Work Hard — in a Different Way

You may already work hard in your W-2 job, but as an owner, it's different. You don't just put in hours — you pull the right levers at the right time. You're responsible for direction, results, and outcomes.

✅ Know What You Need to Earn — Not Just What You Want to Earn

A business has to meet your income needs. Many buyers don't actually know their minimum income requirements. Without clarity, you risk buying a business that can't sustain your life.

✅ Financial Ability Goes Beyond the Down Payment

Down payment is just step one. You'll also need post-closing liquidity, working capital, and a plan for rainy days. Too many people buy businesses they can't afford to weather for more than a few months.

✅ You Can't Delegate Responsibility

You can delegate tasks — but if something breaks, you're still on the hook. Stress doesn't disappear in business ownership; it just shows up differently than in a corporate job.

✅ Family Support Is a Game-Changer

If your family isn't behind you, business ownership will be a much harder path. You need people in your corner when the unexpected hits — and it will hit.

✅ Management and Financial Skills Are Essential

You don't need to be a CPA or MBA, but you do need to understand your financials and manage people effectively. If you've never done that before, get help or get educated — before you close.

You don't need to be perfect. You don't need to have it all figured out. But you do need to know what you're stepping into. This episode is meant to help you determine if business ownership aligns with your life, values, and capacity — before you make a move you regret.

🎓 This Episode is an Excerpt from an Upcoming Course

This bonus episode is a sneak peek from a full course launching in the next few weeks! If you want to go deeper — and learn how to buy the right business for you — email us at admin@ampedsuccess.com and we'll get you on the early interest list.

Resources & Links

Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here

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Instagram: @AmpedSuccess

LinkedIn: Amped Success

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📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com

In Part 2 of this two-part story, Matt returns with Sarah Rainwater to unpack how a struggling assisted living facility—purchased just before COVID—was transformed into a thriving, stable business. This episode covers the power of persistence, smart partnerships, creative deal structuring, and the invaluable impact of boots-on-the-ground leadership. You'll also hear how one employee's relentless commitment led to her becoming an owner. If you're exploring semi-absentee ownership or looking to build strong business partnerships, this episode is packed with actionable insight.

Timestamps

[0:15] – Matt introduces Sarah Rainwater, who hosts this episode, and the focus on a business turnaround story

[1:02] – Recap of Part 1: COVID, partner departure, and survival mode

[4:35] – The importance of boots-on-the-ground leadership and how Matt stepped in

[9:55] – Operating partner files bankruptcy; Matt begins restructuring the ownership

[12:10] – Introduction of new partners and creative partnership structure

[17:00] – New partners bring leadership, remodel the facility, and raise care standards

[24:55] – Business status in 2025: stabilized, thriving, and nearly full occupancy

[27:00] – Key takeaways: partnerships, presence, capital, and communication

[36:00] – Emotional conclusion: Matt gifts ownership to the loyal long-term manager

[38:50] – Final reflections on resilience, leadership, and team success

Resources & Links

Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here

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In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt Uhler takes the guest seat as his business partner, Sarah Rainwater, hosts a revealing conversation about one of the toughest deals he's ever faced—an assisted living facility bought just months before the pandemic hit. With a proven track record, experienced staff, and a strong ROI projection, it looked perfect on paper. But then everything changed.

From key partner exits to devastating COVID losses and financial restructuring, this story unpacks the brutal truth about semi-absentee ownership, partner responsibilities, and how even the best deals can be stress-tested.

This is Part 1 of a two-part series, showing how deep knowledge, leadership, and relentless problem-solving can turn a struggling business around.

[0:01] – Intro – Matt introduces the show and the unique format for this episode

[2:30] – Overview of the assisted living facility deal, including purchase date and initial setup

[6:40] – Breakdown of financials: business vs. real estate, SBA loan, operating capital, and ROI

[8:20] – Discussion of why this deal looked solid and was considered a "Deal"

[10:44] – Early red flags with the operating partner and her eventual resignation

[14:30] – Transition plan post-resignation – assistant manager and advisory team step up

[18:27] – COVID hits hard – staffing, resident care issues, and facility lockdown

[20:45] – Matt becomes more involved – from absentee to actively managing weekly

[23:45] – Creative problem solving: infrastructure issues and operational grit

[28:30] – Interest rates spike, further financial strain on the business

[29:50] – Original operating partner files bankruptcy – impact on loan and technical default

[33:15] – Matt negotiates limited guarantor role with lender to keep business afloat

[37:00] – Purchase of the bankrupt partner's interest from the court

[40:26] – Timeline recap: 2.5 years of loss, turning the corner in Spring 2024

[42:25] – Why Matt didn't give up – the importance of reps, resilience, and responsibility

[46:30] – Closing thoughts – Part 1 ends with a transition to the success story in Part 2

Resources & Links

Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here

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📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com

Today, I'm flying solo to address one of the biggest questions I get as a broker and educator: "Why buy a business when you can just start one?"

At first glance, starting a business seems cheaper and more exciting — but from experience, I've found that buying is almost always the smarter play. Less risk, faster results, and more predictable income. In this bonus episode, I'll walk you through the real reasons why buying often beats starting.

Key Insights from the Episode

✅ Financial History Creates Predictability

When you buy a business, you can (and should) look at 3–5 years of financial history. That lets you see how stable the business is and forecast what to expect — unlike a startup, where nothing is proven yet.

✅ Trained Staff and Existing Customers = Immediate Revenue

A running business has trained employees and customers on day one. You're stepping into something already working. Starting from scratch means hiring, training, and finding customers — all of which delay profitability.

✅ Established Systems and Location Advantage

Businesses come with processes (a recipe) — from opening and closing to customer service — and often locations that are already generating revenue. Even if the location isn't perfect, you're not starting from zero.

✅ Financeability Makes Buying Smarter

Most buyers use financing. Buying a business means buying an income-producing asset, which lenders often support. Starting from scratch means using cash or borrowing for something unproven — much riskier.

✅ Instant Revenue vs. Uncertainty

When you buy right, you make money the day after closing because the business is already running. When you start a business, you don't know when the first dollar will arrive.

✅ Saleable Asset Adds to Net Worth

An existing business, even if not liquid, is a saleable asset — building your wealth over time.

Final Thought

Buying a business, if done right, it's often the faster, smarter, and more reliable path to success. Starting from scratch is exciting — but buying gives you a huge head start and mitigates risk.

🎓 This Episode is an Excerpt from an Upcoming Course

This bonus episode is a sneak peek from a full course we'll be launching in just a few weeks! If you're interested in going deeper into this subject learning everything you need to confidently buy the right business for YOU, email us at admin@ampedsuccess.com and we'll make sure you're on the early interest list.

Resources & Links

Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here

Follow Us on Social Media

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LinkedIn: Amped Success

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In this third and final installment of our Combat Sports x Business crossover series, Matt and 10x Martial Arts Hall of Famer John Potenza dig into "the event"—the moment when preparation meets pressure.

John shares real-world strategies on how elite fighters (and business owners) manage high-stakes situations, recognize the right opportunities, stay calm under fire, and know when it's time to push forward—or walk away.

[0:15] – Intro to John Potenza & Series Recap

[2:35] – Preparing for "The Event" — How Fighters (and Business Owners) Get Ready

[4:50] – Managing the Mental Fight: Excitement, Fear, and Pressure

[8:55] – Base Hits vs. Swinging for the Fences (Choosing Manageable Risk)

[9:42] – Choosing fights wisely. Building a Career: Why the Early Wins Matter

[11:12] – Embracing risks

[13:30] – Playing checkers or chess

[15:45] – Understanding Your Opponent

[17:00] – The Importance of Rest and Recovery Before a Big Event

[20:15] – Knowing When to Take (or Walk Away From) an Opportunity

[23:00] – Managing Energy and Staying Calm During the Event

[24:55] – How to Handle Anger Without Losing Control

[29:00] – The Power of Focus: Story of Winning a Fight After Being in Over Your Head, Relying on Strategy

[35:06] – Learning from Adversity: Why Losses Make You Stronger

[36:15] – How to Move On from Defeat Without Letting It Define You

[39:15] – When It's Time to Walk Away — From a Fight or a Career

[43:00] – Why Coaching and Mentorship Are Critical for Success

Resources & Links

Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here

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Connect with John:

In this powerful second installment of the 3-part series, Matt and John Potenza dive into the mental side of both combat sports and business. With 45 years of martial arts experience and 10 Hall of Fame inductions, John has battled fear, overconfidence, and high-stakes pressure—both in the cage and as a business owner.

This episode is all about mindset. From managing paralyzing fear and anger to building real confidence through preparation and reps, John breaks down what it takes to stay mentally strong when everything is on the line. Matt connects these lessons directly to the world of entrepreneurship, highlighting how breathing, backup plans, coachability, and courage are just as critical in business as they are in the ring.

Timestamps:

[0:17] – Intro to Part 2: Why mindset matters in business and combat

[2:00] – Mental game in a fight

[2:45] – Fear can be a good thing. It keeps you alive and keeps you sharp. The key is to channel fear into preparation and confidence

[6:39] – Channeling the fear of failure into confidence

[8:35] – John's story of overconfidence, ego, and losing a match

[10:40] – Why fear is necessary for sharpness and growth

[12:50] – What to do when fear becomes paralyzing

[16:00] – Reps, reps, reps: building confidence in high-pressure situations

[18:00] – Why anger kills performance

[20:30] – How to deal with aggressive energy

[22:00] – Breathing: a fighter's secret weapon for clarity

[24:15] – Difference between courage and confidence

[26:20] – Preparation is key

[30:18] – Getting inside the fighter's mind

[32:45] – Coaching yourself through fear

[37:30] – Knowing when it's time to walk away

[39:45] – John's journey from competitor to coach

[42:40] – Freedom Ranch: rescuing animals, restoring peace

Resources & Links

Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here

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Connect with John:

In this first episode of a 3-part series, Matt dives into the unexpected but powerful parallels between preparing for combat sports and preparing for business.

His guest, John Potenza, is a 10-time Martial Arts Hall of Fame inductee with 45 years of experience, multiple world titles, and a long history of coaching elite fighters. But beyond his physical credentials, John brings something every entrepreneur needs: mental discipline, adaptability, and leadership under pressure.

In this episode, they break down how success in both arenas—combat and business—comes down to how you prepare. From creating backup plans (A, B, and C) to staying calm under pressure, to knowing when to walk away from a fight (or deal), the principles are strikingly similar. Whether you're in the ring or the boardroom, the lessons here will help you get ready to win.

Timestamps:

[0:16] – Intro to John Potenza: 45 years of combat experience & business ownership

[4:20] – Childhood inspiration: backyard fights & DIY training

[4:55] – Early obsession and formal martial arts training begins

[9:45] – From two mats and $800 to multiple schools & world titles

[11:45] – Managing fighters: leadership, honor, and real mentorship

[14:00] – Pushing yourself to improve—and why someone wants to fight

[17:20] – Fighting for self-perfection (and how that compares to business)

[19:00] – Business vs. fighting: learning to take a hit and recover fast

[20:40] – A/B/C plans: muscle memory in the ring = backup plans in business

[23:25] – A/B/Cs in business: adapting fast when things go sideways

[25:10] – Taking on measured risks in both fighting and business

[29:00] – Why good coaches say NO: protecting your team from the wrong fight

[35:00] – It's a team sport: how real fighters (and business owners) build support

[39:20] – Coachability and mental discipline: the foundation of real growth

[43:20] – Visualization, repetition, and training to win

Resources & Links

Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here

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Connect with John:

In this episode, Matt sits down with Chris Peruch—a former W2 professional turned successful business owner. Chris and his wife juggled multiple entrepreneurial ventures while working full-time jobs before making the leap into full-time business ownership. Chris opens up about the pivotal moments that led them to buy a home remodeling business, how they secured financing, why they walked away from a car wash deal, and how they approached working together as a couple.

This episode is packed with honest insights and actionable advice from someone who's done it.

Timestamps:

[0:15] – Chris's background: W2 job, side hustles, and real estate investing

[1:30] – Leaving W2 position, shifting into entrepreneurship

[2:25] – Real estate vs. business acquisition

[4:35] – Why Chris passed on a car wash deal

[7:30] – Buying back his salary through business acquisition

[9:00] – The business Chris and Christy bought (flooring, cabinets, etc.)

[14:35] – Keeping previous owner on staff

[16:05] – Getting spouse buy-in and navigating finances together

[18:45] – Why this business stood out: Stable, profitable, and well-managed

[19:50] – Financing the deal: SBA + seller carry

[20:40] – Managing a business over an hour away

[24:00] – Introducing themselves to the team and managing the transition

[30:00] – Lessons learned: SBA surprises and working capital

[42:44] – Mentors, leadership, and the people who made a difference

Resources & Links

Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here

Follow Us on Social Media

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LinkedIn: Amped Success

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In this episode Matt sits down with longtime friend and former corporate retail manager Kevin Ray, who spent 28 years climbing the ladder in big-box retail—only to walk away and buy his freedom through small business ownership. Kevin shares his inspiring story of how he left behind 60-hour weeks, toxic leadership, and mounting anxiety to purchase two thriving businesses.

You'll hear how Kevin transitioned from W-2 predictability to entrepreneurship, creating a lifestyle where he can finally prioritize family, flexibility, and fulfillment. This is a must-listen episode for anyone on the edge of leaving corporate life for the dream of owning a business.

Timestamps [00:00] Welcome & Introduction

[01:20] Kevin's start in corporate retail and rapid advancement

[03:00] Why corporate promotions often required cross-state moves

[07:45] Burnout, long hours, and the tipping point

[10:10] Leaving corporate for good — and the family impact

[17:10] Choosing small business over another corporate role

[21:00] Buying Frannie's Cones & Coffee: what made it the right fit

[23:37] Strategic tweaks that increased profits immediately

[26:20] Lessons in analyzing what works (and what doesn't)

[27:19] The best advice Kevin received in corporate America

[29:08] Buying a second business: Treat Center

[31:30] Turning around an old-school operation

[39:05] From W-2 anxiety to entrepreneurial freedom

[40:31] What's next: Expanding into wholesale popcorn

[48:39] The people who made a difference in Kevin's journey

Resources & Links

Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here

Follow Us on Social Media

Instagram: @AmpedSuccess

LinkedIn: Amped Success

Tiktok: @Ampedsuccess

YouTube: @AmpedSuccess

📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com

In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt sits down with Lindsay Denton, a seasoned transaction director, to break down the basics of successfully financing a business acquisition.

Lindsay dives into the details of navigating SBA loans, choosing the right lender, and preparing your financial landscape to secure funding. She also shares real-life examples of unexpected financing roadblocks — and how to overcome them.

Whether you're buying your first business or scaling your portfolio, this episode offers practical insights to ensure your deal gets to the finish line.

[00:00] Welcome & Introduction

[01:02] Financing Real Estate vs. Businesses

[02:10] Uncovering buyer "baggage" before lenders do

[02:57] Choosing the right lender

[04:44] The different types of SBA lenders

[05:26] What makes one lender better than another

[07:33] Why PLP lenders

[12:30] Mistakes to avoid when preparing for financing

[16:10] Why transparency with lenders is crucial

[20:15] The difference between a Transaction Director and a Loan Broker

[26:30] Real-life deal challenges

[28:06] Lindsay's most challenging transaction

[35:52] Who made a difference in Lindsay's career journey

Resources & Links

Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here

Follow Us on Social Media

Instagram: @AmpedSuccess

LinkedIn: Amped Success

Tiktok: @Ampedsuccess

YouTube: @AmpedSuccess

📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com

Episode Summary

In this episode of "What's Your Deal?", Matt sits down with Luke McCarthy, a real estate investor turned business owner, to discuss his journey from flipping over 1,000 homes to acquiring local businesses. Luke shares valuable insights on transitioning from real estate to small business ownership, the power of recurring revenue, and the importance of community-driven business growth.

Whether you're exploring your first acquisition or looking for practical insights on managing a growing portfolio, this episode is packed with actionable strategies and valuable lessons.

[00:00] Welcome & Introduction

[02:06] Luke's background in real estate and fix-and-flip investing

[10:10] Transitioning from real estate to small business ownership

[12:35] Acquiring a dog hotel during the pandemic — and turning it around

[14:26] Partnerships

[15:55] Buying a landscaping business — key lessons learned

[18:55] Managing old equipment and rolling stock in a newly acquired business

[20:58] Rewarding employees with better vehicles — a strategic incentive

[28:39] Why Luke focuses on family-owned businesses in his acquisitions

[30:21] Balancing entrepreneurship and family life

[33:30] The mentor who changed Luke's career trajectory

Resources & Links

Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here

Follow Us on Social Media

Instagram: @AmpedSuccess

LinkedIn: Amped Success

Tiktok: @Ampedsuccess

YouTube: @AmpedSuccess

📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com

Episode Summary

In this episode, Matt sits down with former client and business owner Keith Sklarsky to explore his journey from corporate sales to successful business ownership. After leaving a demanding career in sales management, Keith found his path in business acquisition, purchasing multiple businesses and leaving Corporate America behind.

Keith shares how he navigated the transition into entrepreneurship, including his experience with financing, the due diligence period, and finding "off the market" roll-up opportunities — all while successfully managing multiple businesses. He reveals key insights about building strong partnerships, empowering employees, and balancing business growth with family life.

Whether you're exploring your first acquisition or looking to scale your portfolio, this episode is packed with practical insights and valuable lessons from someone who's done it — and done it well!

[00:00] Welcome & Introduction

[02:06] Leaving corporate life for business ownership

[04:01] Did you keep your corporate job as you transitioned into business ownership?

[06:01] How did you find the first business you purchased, and did you use a broker?

[10:33] What is an "add-back"?

[14:05] Finding and buying an "off-market business"

[14:54] Key considerations for buying a business

[20:43] How to get a broker's attention

[23:30] Picking the right business (avoiding purchasing a business out of town)

[26:33] Purchasing your third business — what did you learn? What would you have done differently?

[30:13] Having enough operating capital as you step into a newly acquired business

[36:02] What's next for Keith?

[37:00] At what point will you need to expand your management team to keep up with your growing portfolio?

[39:07] Managing ownership and family/personal life

[41:37] Who made a difference in your life and helped you become the business owner you are today?

Resources & Links

Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here

Follow Us on Social Media

Instagram: @AmpedSuccess

LinkedIn: Amped Success

Tiktok: @Ampedsuccess

YouTube: @AmpedSuccess

📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com

Episode Summary

In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Host Matt Uhler sits down with his business partner, Sarah Rainwater, to discuss the vision behind the podcast and Amped Success — an education platform designed to help aspiring business buyers, investors, and entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of business acquisition, management, and exit strategies.

In a fun twist, Sarah flips the script, putting Matt in the hot seat to explore his personal journey, professional credentials, and his mission to help others avoid costly mistakes in business ownership.

Whether you're looking to buy a business, scale an existing one, or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable insights you won't want to miss!

[00:00] Welcome & Introduction

[04:33] What is Amped Success?

[06:41] What is the Amped Success Recipe Book?

[09:50] Why is education key when it comes to starting your business acquisition journey?

[12:23] What is the "What's Your Deal?" Podcast?

[16:00] Who is Matt Uhler?

Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here

Follow Us on Social Media

Instagram: @AmpedSuccess

LinkedIn: Amped Success

Tiktok: @Ampedsuccess

YouTube: @AmpedSuccess

📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com