Hosts: Allen Darby & Jacqueline Martinez Guest: Amy DeTolla, Chief Experience Officer at Aureus Advantage (formerly Focus Financial/Connectus)
Culture is often cited as the #1 reason deals succeed or fail, but few sellers know how to measure it before signing. In this episode, Amy DeTolla joins Allen and Jaclyn to unpack how cultural alignment drives, or derails, integration success.
Compatibility vs. Culture Compatibility can be quantified, culture must be experienced. Understanding the difference determines whether your team integrates seamlessly or fractures post-close.
Pre-Signing Alignment Checks How to evaluate values, leadership style, and communication dynamics before a deal closes, not after it’s too late.
Common Integration Pitfalls The “us vs. them” dynamic that derails post-close collaboration, and how to prevent it through intentional cultural due diligence.
Testing for Cultural Fit Practical questions sellers can ask buyers to gauge leadership alignment, client experience philosophy, and operational cadence.
Amy’s Key Insight Culture isn’t a vibe, it’s an operating system. The firms that win long-term define it, measure it, and make it part of their deal process.
Bottom Line If “culture fit” is on your checklist but not in your due diligence, this episode is your blueprint for turning values into deal strategy.
Hosts: Alan Darby & Jaclyn Martinez
Guest: Elizabeth Guidi, Tax Attorney at Kilpatrick Townsend
Your transaction outcome isn't just about the headline price - it's about what you actually keep after taxes. Most sellers focus on valuation multiples but miss how deal structure can dramatically impact their after-tax proceeds.
Asset purchases with rollover equity often beat straight stock sales from a tax perspective. The "structure first" mindset can save significant dollars compared to focusing solely on purchase price negotiations.
Purchase Price Allocation
Payment Timing Strategy
Entity Structure Traps
Hidden Tax Landmines
- State and local tax surprises that can derail your planning- Geographic considerations most advisors overlook- Compliance requirements across different jurisdictions
Pre-LOI Tax Checklist - Simple framework to get tax planning on track before negotiations begin. Getting tax and legal advisors involved early lets you design the optimal structure instead of retrofitting tax planning to a completed deal.
Elizabeth's Key Insight - Every deal is unique. Cookie-cutter approaches to M&A taxation leave money on the table. The biggest wins come from structuring transactions intelligently from the start, not trying to minimize taxes after the deal terms are set.
Bottom Line - Smart tax planning isn't about finding loopholes - it's about legally structuring your transaction to keep more of what you built. Start the conversation with tax advisors before you sign the LOI, not after.
The Big Myth
Most advisors think selling their firm means they have to retire immediately.
Reality check: Less than 5-10% of sellers actually want to exit within 12 months.
Three key motivators:
As the nation's largest RIA ($300B+ AUM), they prefer strategic partnerships over quick flips:
Modern M&A is about partnership and scaling your impact, not cashing out and disappearing. The best buyers want you to stick around and grow together.
Perfect for advisors considering M&A or wondering what really happens post-transaction.
For RIA principals navigating a merger or acquisition, one of the most challenging decisions is determining the right moment—and method—to share the news with their team. In this crucial episode of The Buyer's Boardroom, hosts Allen Darby and Jacqueline Martinez tackle this sensitive topic, drawing from real-world experiences, including those "awkward moments" many leaders hope to avoid.
Allen and Jacqueline delve into the critical best practices for preparing and delivering this significant announcement. They explore the nuanced considerations around timing, discussing the pros and cons of informing key team members pre-LOI versus waiting until an LOI is signed. A key point of discussion revolves around the inherent risks of waiting too long, such as an employee catching wind of a potential deal months in advance and seeking opportunities elsewhere, leading to unintended talent loss.
Listeners will learn valuable strategies for:
Strategic Timing: Weighing the 75% probability milestone (often associated with pre-LOI diligence needs or deal progression) against the risks of premature disclosure or delayed communication.
Thorough Preparation: The importance of meticulous planning before the announcement call to ensure clarity and confidence.
Crafting the Narrative: How to effectively outline what will happen next, providing a clear roadmap for the team post-announcement.
Consistent Reinforcement: Techniques for reinforcing key messages to ensure understanding and manage concerns over time.
This episode is packed with actionable advice for any firm leader facing the pivotal moment of M&A communication, offering insights to help manage team anxieties, maintain trust, and navigate the transition with greater transparency and strategic foresight.
Join the Conversation: We invite you to share your thoughts on this approach. Email your reactions to boardroom@alarisacquisitions.com.
Navigating M&A Deals Through Market Downturns
Market volatility got you worried about your M&A deal? Recent market downturns, even seemingly moderate ones impacting portfolios by around 6%, can significantly affect a company's sellable EBITDA, creating uncertainty for both buyers and sellers deep in the transaction process.
In this episode, we tackle this challenge head-on. Sellers understandably don't want short-term market dips to penalize their long-term value, while buyers need confidence in current valuations for their stakeholders and lenders. How do you bridge this gap and keep deals moving forward fairly?
We explore the perspectives of both parties, emphasizing that successful M&A is a long-term partnership, not an opportunity to exploit temporary market fluctuations. Discover the practical ways market activity can impact deal structure – from valuation adjustments to putting retention payments at risk.
More importantly, we dive into creative, actionable solutions that go beyond simply pausing or walking away. Learn about strategies like:
Tune in to understand the risks and rewards of different approaches and learn how Alaris Acquisitions facilitates constructive conversations to find mutually agreeable paths forward, ensuring deals stay on track even when markets are choppy.
Join the Conversation: We invite you to share your thoughts on this approach. Email your reactions to boardroom@alarisacquisitions.com.
In this thought-provoking episode of The Buyer's Boardroom, Allen Darby and Jacqueline Martinez discuss "10 Things That Make Your Baby Ugly" – insightful factors that can make your RIA less attractive to potential buyers. They delve into common operational, financial, and client-related issues that can significantly impact your firm's valuation and appeal. This episode provides crucial guidance for RIA owners looking to maximize their firm's attractiveness and ensure a successful M&A journey.
To cap it off, Allen sits down with Jason Gordo of Modern Wealth Management to get his take as an experienced acquirer.
Join the Conversation: We invite you to share your thoughts on this approach. Email your reactions to boardroom@alarisacquisitions.com.
In this episode join Allen Darby and Jacqueline Martinez as they introduce the Alaris "Lens" product. Lens is a first of its kind platform for RIA's to explore M&A, learn through though leadership articles, podcasts, etc, and explore the largest buyer dataset ever put together in one place for M&A in the Wealth Management Space. It continues to improve the seller experience through our Ideal Outcome Process and Ai Partner Matching Algorithm that works like match.com for M&A in the wealth management space, creating culture based profile matches.
This podcast episode dives deep into the complexities of RIA valuations, going beyond the simple "multiple of AUM" myth. Hosts Allen Darby and Jacqueline Martinez discuss the real drivers of valuation, including revenue mix (recurring vs. non-recurring), operating expenses, and owner's compensation. They also explore the importance of EBITDA margins, the currency stack (cash vs. equity), and deal structure (closing consideration vs. deferred payments). The episode features a conversation with Brooks Hamner of Mercer Capital, a leading valuation firm in the wealth management space, offering expert insights on maximizing your firm's value.
Join the Conversation: We invite you to share your thoughts on this approach. Email your reactions to boardroom@alarisacquisitions.com.
In this episode of The Buyer's Boardroom, hosts Jacqueline Martinez and Allen Darby delve into the nuances of internal versus external succession planning for financial advisory firms. They explore key considerations, including valuation differences, the role of equity participation, and distinguishing great advisors from great business owners. David Wahlen, Director of Strategic Growth at CapTrust, joins to share insights on post-acquisition equity distribution and the importance of fostering partnerships by equitizing key team members. The episode concludes with practical advice on timing an acquisition, factoring in valuation growth, risk, and quality of life. Join the Conversation: We invite you to share your thoughts on this approach. Email your reactions to boardroom@alarisacquisitions.com
In this episode of the Buyer’s Boardroom, Allen Darby and Jacqueline Martinez explore one of the more challenging operational dilemmas for sellers: how to deal with 1099 advisors. Here, they break down the myths and realities around the impact of 1099 advisors on firm’s value and provide strategies to optimize valuations. Nate Lenz of Concurrent joins as a special guest, offering insights from his personal experience as Co-Founder and CEO of a buyer in the space that has creatively solved for this situation. Together, they examine the best path forward.
Join the Conversation: We invite you to share your thoughts on this approach. Email your reactions toboardroom@alarisacquisitions.com.
In this episode of the Buyer’s Boardroom, Allen Darby and Jacqueline Martinez explore one of the biggest concerns for sellers: the fear of losing independence. Here, they break down the myths and realities surrounding autonomy when transitioning into a new partnership. Dean Barber of Modern Wealth Management joins as a special guest, offering insights from his personal experience after partnering with a larger firm. Together, they examine the six key areas of decision-making that sellers are most concerned about and offer practical advice on how to address these fears.
Join the Conversation: We invite you to share your thoughts on this approach. Email your reactions to boardroom@alarisacquisitions.com.
In this episode of the Buyers Boardroom, Allen Darby and Jacqueline Martinez delve into the traditional methods of sell-side advising in the wealth management space. Discover why they believe traditional financial auctions fall short in considering cultural fit and post-acquisition success. Instead, they advocate for a 'cultural conviction' approach that emphasizes extensive buyer-seller interaction to ensure a harmonious partnership. Drawing on their extensive experience and years of data collection on buyer models, they propose that this method not only fosters better long-term relationships but could also potentially lead to higher valuations.
Join the Conversation: We invite you to share your thoughts on this approach. Email your reactions to boardroom@alarisacquisitions.com.
Overview:
The Problem with Financial Auctions: Financial auctions have long been the go-to method for sell-side advisors in the wealth management space. But is this the best mechanism to divest these kinds of assets? Allen and Jacqueline argue that it is not. Here's why:
Psychological Manipulation: Financial auctions exploit human emotions and psychological drivers. Terms like "social proof," "time pressure," and "scarcity" are built into the auction process to artificially inflate offers. This can lead to what is known as the "winner's curse," where the highest bidder regrets their purchase after realizing they overpaid.
Lack of Cultural Fit: The financial auction process prioritizes monetary bids over cultural alignment. Sellers and buyers get little to no time to assess if they're a good cultural fit, which is often cited by both parties as the most crucial aspect of a successful transaction.
Inadequate Stakeholder Consideration: Beyond the buyer and seller, other stakeholders such as teams and clients are critically important. Financial auctions don’t adequately address the needs and concerns of these groups, leading to potential disruption and dissatisfaction post-acquisition.
The Alternative: Cultural Conviction Process: So, what is the better way to match buyers and sellers in the wealth management industry? Allen introduces an alternative approach he calls "Cultural Conviction." Here's how it works:
Granular Buyer Data: By cataloging buyer models at a granular level, sell-side advisors can understand buyer needs better. This includes everything from organizational structure to client experience and technology stack.
Tailored Matching: Instead of casting a wide net, the Cultural Conviction process focuses on matching sellers with a select few buyers who align well on crucial points. By reducing the number of buyers but increasing their quality, sellers can spend meaningful time with each potential buyer, fostering a better cultural fit.
Encouraging Interaction: From day one, buyers and sellers are encouraged, and even required, to spend quality time together. This interaction is essential for assessing cultural fit and ensuring that both parties are making informed, rational decisions.
Outline:
00:32 Exploring Alaris' Unique Approach
02:41 The Legacy Pathway: Financial Auctions
06:07 Psychology and Pitfalls of Financial Auctions
10:55 Cultural Fit: The Key to Successful Transactions
20:59 Alaris' Cultural Conviction Process
Welcome to Season 3 of The Buyer’s Boardroom! In this special episode, we flip the script to spotlight the essential role and value of M&A advisors. Join hosts Allen Darby and Jacqueline Martínez from Alaris Acquisitions to discover how Alaris is transforming the industry with innovative processes that benefit both buyers and sellers. Learn about the crucial phases of the M&A journey, the importance of cultural fit, and the strategic advantages of having a dedicated advisor.
Join the conversation - Follow our hosts on LinkedIn:
Subscribe to our podcast here -> bit.ly/3MxEilB and get every new episode delivered straight to your inbox.
Welcome to Part 4, the final segment of our special 4-episode series designed to help sellers differentiate between buyer’s models. This episode, “Expansion of Capabilities,” features special guest Kevin Corbett, Managing Director of Corporate Development at Mariner Wealth Advisors. Together, we discuss the growth strategies that buyers are adopting, including people and expertise, additional services, and training programs for next-gen advisors.
Join hosts Allen Darby and Jacqueline Martínez from Alaris Acquisitions as they dive into the nuances of differentiating between buyers and their models in the RIA M&A landscape.
Welcome to Part 3 of our special 4-episode series designed to help sellers differentiate between buyer’s models. This episode, “Buyer Autonomy Differences,” we dive into insightful discussions with two distinguished guests, Arthur Ambarik of Perigon Wealth Management & Brent Brodeski of Savant Wealth Management. Together, we dive into autonomy differences and the three mandatory points of alignment: structural, operational and client experience. Join hosts Allen Darby and Jacqueline Martínez from Alaris Acquisitions as they dive into the nuances of differentiating between buyers and their models in the RIA M&A landscape.
Join the conversation - Follow our hosts on LinkedIn:
Subscribe to our podcast here -> bit.ly/3MxEilB and get every new episode delivered straight to your inbox.
Welcome to Part 2 of our special 4-episode series designed to help sellers differentiate between buyer’s models. This episode, “Buyer Lifecycle Differences,” we dive into insightful discussions with two distinguished guests, CJ Rendic of Parallel Advisors & Scott Holsopple of Hightower Advisors. Together, we discuss the three primary areas of differences: access to resources, seat at the table, and equity appreciation, and weigh the pros and cons of each for sellers embarking on their journey. Join hosts Allen Darby and Jacqueline Martínez from Alaris Acquisitions as they dive into the nuances of differentiating between buyers and their models in the RIA M&A landscape.
Join the conversation - Follow our hosts on LinkedIn:
Subscribe to our podcast here -> bit.ly/3MxEilB and get every new episode delivered straight to your inbox.
Welcome to a special 4-episode series on how to differentiate between buyer models. The first part of this series is "How to differentiate between buyers' deal structures - minority interest vs full acquisition?", featuring insightful discussions with 2 distinguished guests on each episode. Join hosts Allen Darby and Jacqueline Martínez from Alaris Acquisitions as they dive into the nuances of differentiating between buyers and their models in the RIA M&A landscape.
Subscribe to our podcast at bit.ly/3MxEilB to receive each new episode directly to your inbox. Stay informed about the RIA M&A landscape by subscribing to Alaris' mailing list for monthly insights. In this episode, gain valuable perspectives from Joe Duran and Glenn Spencer. Don't miss out – tune in now! #RIAMandA #Podcast #AlarisAcquisitions
Join the conversation - Follow our hosts on LinkedIn:
Subscribe to our podcast here -> bit.ly/3MxEilB and get every new episode delivered straight to your inbox.
Michael Belluomini, Vice President of Mergers and Acquisitions at Carson Group, breaks down the post-LOI cadence during a transaction. Jacqueline and Allen also share intriguing behind-the-scenes stories, including a seller's last-minute agreement change just hours before signing the purchase agreement. Tune in for a candid look at the unexpected twists in M&A negotiations.
Join the conversation - Follow our hosts on LinkedIn:
Subscribe to our podcast here -> bit.ly/3MxEilB and get every new episode delivered straight to your inbox.
Our guest, Shawn Meade, CPA, shares the experience he and his partner went through when they sold their practice. From the financial considerations, managing their staff, communicating with clients, and navigating the emotional ups and downs, Shawn offers guidance that can empower potential sellers considering a similar path.
Join the conversation - Follow our hosts on LinkedIn:
Subscribe to our podcast here -> bit.ly/3MxEilB and get every new episode delivered straight to your inbox.
In the dynamic landscape of wealth management, achieving success requires more than just financial expertise.
Join us in this insightful episode of The Buyer's Boardroom as we dive into the intricate world of Practice Management. Our esteemed guest, Stephanie Bogan, Founder of Limitless Advisor, brings her unparalleled insights to the table.
With hosts Allen Darby and Jacqueline Martinez, we uncover the crucial question: "How do you know when Practice Management becomes a critical issue for your firm?". Stephanie lends her expertise to help you identify the telltale signs that necessitate a deeper focus on Practice Management. Discover the early indicators that could transform the trajectory of your wealth management firm.
Join the conversation - Follow our hosts on LinkedIn:
Subscribe to our podcast here -> bit.ly/3MxEilB and get every new episode delivered straight to your inbox.