In this episode, trust and estate attorney Michael Clear, Partner of Wiggin and Dana discusses how thoughtful estate planning can help business owners preserve and protect the wealth created through a lifetime of work. He explains the strategic use of trusts—revocable and irrevocable—to minimize estate taxes, provide asset protection, and ensure family continuity. Clear emphasizes the importance of starting planning well before a sale—ideally two or more years in advance—to take advantage of valuation discounts and tax benefits. With a counselor’s mindset, he guides clients through not just the technical but also the personal aspects of planning, helping families clarify goals, communicate effectively, and set up structures that reflect their values and future aspirations.

TRANSISTOR

touchstoneadvisors.com

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In this episode, we sit down with Brad Malicki, an experienced M&A attorney with Halloran Sage to discuss the crucial role legal counsel plays in getting a deal to the finish line. Whether you’re buying or selling, the goal is always the same—negotiate to “yes” and close the deal in a way that works for both sides.

Our guest explains why having the right attorney—one who understands M&A transactions—is essential. From interpreting the Letter of Intent to drafting detailed agreements that prevent future disputes, an experienced M&A attorney knows how to ask the right questions, balance legal protection with deal momentum, and ensure both parties walk away satisfied (if only a little bit happy and a little bit unhappy).

You’ll also hear insights on what differentiates a transactional attorney from a litigator, the importance of clear communication between all parties, and why the best contracts are the ones that get signed, filed, and never need to be revisited.

touchstoneadvisors.com

linkedin.com/company/touchstone-advisors-m-a

directlinemediaproductions.com/professional-podcast-production

In this episode, Deborah sits down with Jason Correia, a Principal at CLA and an expert in Quality of Earnings (Q of E) analysis for M&A transactions. Jason breaks down why Q of E reports are essential for verifying the accuracy of financials, understanding true cash flow, and normalizing earnings to reflect what a business will really look like under new ownership.

Discussed are key topics like normalizing owner-related expenses, determining net working capital, and how these analyses impact deal value and negotiations. Jason also shares insights from his career journey—from auditing to M&A—and how his team at CLA supports both buyers and sellers through every phase of the transaction.

Tune in to learn how Q of E can reveal the real earnings story behind the numbers.

www.claconnect.com

touchstoneadvisors.com

linkedin.com/company/touchstone-advisors-m-a

directlinemediaproductions.com/professional-podcast-production