In this episode of the M&A Launchpad Podcast, hosts Feras Moussa and Casey Minshew sit down with John Martinka, a seasoned intermediary and advisor with nearly 30 years of experience in business transactions. John shares candid insights into how buyer and seller dynamics have evolved, the critical role of financial preparedness, and why experience is key to successful deals.  The conversation highlights the importance of knowing your numbers, preparing a business for sale well in advance, and making incremental improvements that build real value — whether you’re buying for the long term or planning a strategic exit.   For anyone thinking about buying, selling, or growing a business, this episode is packed with hard-earned wisdom and actionable advice.  In this podcast episode, we discuss:  The Role of Intermediaries in Business Transactions  How Buyer and Seller Dynamics Have Changed Over the Years  Why Financial Preparedness is Essential for Both Buyers and Sellers  Navigating Buyer Sophistication — and Unsophistication  Buy and Hold vs. Quick Flip Strategies  How Sellers Can Prepare Their Business for a Successful Exit  Why Experience is King in Business Transactions    Connect with John:  Website: https://www.martinkaconsulting.com/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JohnAMartinka  Podcast: Getting the Deal Done https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/martinka-consultings-getting-the-deal-done-podcast/id1550396853  Mention this podcast and John will send you a copy of one of his books: Buying a Business That Makes You Rich, Growth by Acquisition, or Exit with Style, Grace & More Money  Additional Resources: Watch more interviews and episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malaunchpad Learn more about Equity Launchpad: https://equity-launchpad.com Get $150 off the M&A Launchpad Conference with code LAUNCH at: https://malaunchpad.com Have a question or want to work with us? Reach out to Casey and Ben: info@equity-launchpad.com  About The M&A Launchpad: The M&A Launchpad provides insights into acquiring, investing in, and selling profitable businesses in the lower to middle market. Whether you are a business owner, investor, or aspiring entrepreneur, we will provide you with the knowledge, guidance, and capital to navigate the world of mergers and acquisitions.The M&A Launchpad presents a series of weekly podcast episodes and hosts an annual M&A Launchpad Conference tailored to the M&A community.Connect with M&A Launchpad: 🎧 Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0mW6i4ooujqC7eOPWmguU7🎧 Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/m-a-launchpad/id1740382586🎟️ Attend Upcoming M&A Launchpad Conference: http://malaunchpad.com/