In this episode of the Going Beyond the Deal podcast, J. Michael Fischer Jr. speaks with Jeff Parnell, a seasoned CEO, advisor, and author with deep expertise in helping businesses navigate major transitions. With decades of experience spanning ecommerce, consumer goods, food manufacturing, and more, Jeff shares how his work with companies of all sizes, especially family-owned and private-equity-backed businesses, has helped them achieve clarity and direction during high-stakes periods of change.

Listeners will hear insights on what makes or breaks a transition plan, why succession is about more than leadership change, and how owners can build scalable value while preparing for a smooth exit. Jeff also discusses the importance of outside advisory voices, the emotional dynamics of business succession, and how his work at JHP Advisors supports CEOs in developing a clear vision for the future.

Curious how to exit your business with both value and peace of mind? This episode unpacks the emotional, financial, and strategic layers behind successful transitions—press play to get ahead of the curve.

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Enjoy!

Key takeaways:

• Why being honest with yourself is essential before any major business transition
• The role of ego, pride, and emotional readiness in exiting your business
• How to identify and work with a truly effective advisor
• What qualities to look for in someone supporting your transition (and what to avoid)
• The importance of asking good questions over having all the answers
• How Jeff’s personal mission to “help people come out the other side” shapes his work
• And much more…

Guest Bio:

Jeff Parnell is a CEO, advisor, and author who specializes in succession and exit planning for CEOs, business owners, boards, and investors. Through his work with JHP Advisors, Jeff draws on decades of C-suite experience across ecommerce, consumer goods, home furnishings, food manufacturing, and family-owned businesses. He has led companies through high-stakes transitions, tripled and quadrupled revenue in established businesses, and launched a $100M ecommerce division within a publicly traded firm. As an interim and fractional CEO, he helps organizations scale with clarity, efficiency, and confidence.

Resources:

Connect with Michael on LinkedIn

DBD Investment Bank

Connect with Jeff on LinkedIn

The Heart of Transition

The Heart of Transition Book