Preparing your business for sale: Insights on exit planning with Simon Bedard

Preparing your business for sale: Insights on exit planning with Simon Bedard

From Flying Solo by Flying Solo

April 16, 2026 · 34 min · Season 3 · Episode 9

About this episode

This episode discusses the importance of exit planning for business owners with expert Simon Bedard.

Today we’re diving into a critical topic that many business owners overlook—your exit plan. After pouring years of passion and energy into your business, have you thought about how you’ll eventually move on? Simon Bedard is a seasoned expert with over 20 years of experience guiding owners through the exit process and author of "Exit Like an Expert." Bedard reveals why the biggest challenge in selling a business isn’t the market, but lack of preparation—only 20 to 30 per cent of businesses that go to market actually sell. So, we’ll explore the mindset shifts needed, the importance of planning ahead, common pitfalls to avoid, and strategies to maximise the value of your business when it’s time to say goodbye. Whether you’re thinking about selling soon or just want to prepare for the future, this episode is packed with essential advice on creating a smooth and rewarding exit. Timestamped Overview 00:00 Why business owners need exit plans 05:39 Closing down a small business 08:56 Reducing owner dependence 10:15 Making a business attractive to buyers 16:17 Types of buyers explained 17:09 What buyers look for 20:41 Advice for selling a business 25:44 Preparing your business for sale…

People in this episode

Guest: Simon Bedard

Topics covered

  • Exit Planning for Business Owners

Keywords

  • exit plan
  • business sale
  • preparation
  • value maximization
  • common pitfalls

Mentioned in this episode

Products: Exit Like an Expert

Books & works: Exit Like an Expert

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