At just 24, Scott Snider sold his landscaping company—but quickly faced an identity crisis. Today, as president of the Exit Planning Institute, he’s on a mission to help founders avoid the same post-exit regret. In this episode, Scott shares his entrepreneurial journey, why most exits fail the owner emotionally, and how the CEPA framework empowers founders to build with the end in mind. Discover why aligning business, personal, and financial planning is the ultimate lever for maximizing exit value—and peace of mind.

Key Takeaways:

• Start exit planning early—even if you're years away—to create options and drive valuation.
• Align business, personal, and financial goals using the “Three-Legged Stool” method.
• Know your wealth gap: how much you need post-exit determines your deal flexibility.
• 75% of founders regret their exit—often due to a lack of personal purpose planning.
• Building buyability also builds a stronger business today—exit strategy is good business strategy.
• Today’s founders prefer relationship-driven advisors, not transactional experts.
• Gen X and Millennial owners are driving a shift to multiple exits and hybrid deal structures.
• SEPA-certified advisors bring a shared framework and mindset that accelerates founder outcomes.

Timestamps:

00:07 – Welcome and Introduction

01:23 – Scott Snider's Personal Story: From Janitor to Business Exit

05:30 – The Importance of Exit Planning for Founders

11:45 – Transforming a Business into a Financial Asset

33:52 – Strategic Planning Insights for Business Growth

56:12 – What’s Next for the Exit Planning Institute

Links & Resources

• Scott Snider

  • Website: earncepa.com

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