What does it actually take to sell a $55 million business you built from scratch? In this episode, Gina Schaefer breaks down everything: ESOPs, succession planning for independent dealers, finding the right buyer for your business, and why she chose employee ownership over private equity. If you have ever searched "how does an ESOP work," "when should I start succession planning," or "how to exit a small business," this episode answers all of it. Gina covers how to build your exit strategy lifeline list, what to look for in a business broker or attorney, and the three things every independent dealer needs to get in order before they sell: their numbers, their visuals, and their people.

What you'll take away:
- How ESOPs work and why employees do not need to have money to buy your business
- The three buckets you need to get in order before you sell: your numbers, your visuals, and your humans
- Why your business broker may never tell you about the ESOP option — and who to call instead
- How to build your exit strategy lifeline list starting today, no matter how far away your exit feels
- What Gina learned buying five businesses from other owners — and how that shaped how she sold her own

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/_iSFBM85CD4

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👉 About Stefanie Couch & Grit Blueprint

I'm Stefanie Couch, the founder of Grit Blueprint. I grew up in a third-generation building supply business. I've worked inside dealers, distributors, and manufacturers. I built Grit Blueprint to solve problems I saw in our industry.

Grit Blueprint is a visibility, media, and growth partner for manufacturers, distributors, dealers, service providers, and leaders in the building industry.
We help you get seen, build trust, and become unmistakable.