Episode Details

Episode 036: In this episode, I sit down with Ben Klundt, a Certified Financial Planner and certified exit planning advisor at TEN Capital, to talk about something that doesn’t get enough attention until it’s too late—liquidity events. Whether it’s selling a business, offloading real estate, or stepping into retirement, Ben walks through what a liquidity event really is and why planning ahead can make all the difference.

We spend time unpacking why the most successful exits often start three to five years before the actual transaction. Ben shares what he’s seen from business owners who waited too long—and the opportunities they leave on the table because of it. From avoidable tax hits to poorly structured deals, we highlight some of the most common mistakes and how to steer clear of them.

We also get into the strategies that can help maximize value, including thoughtful tax planning and deal structuring. But what stood out most to me was the conversation around the emotional side of selling a business. For many owners, this isn’t just a financial transaction—it’s walking away from something they’ve built their entire life around. Ben offers a really grounded perspective on how to prepare not just financially, but mentally, for that transition.

If you’re a business owner, investor, or someone thinking about a major financial transition down the line, this conversation is a great reminder that the earlier you start preparing, the more options you have—and the better your outcome may be.