The Real Bottom Line

Insights from Selling a 35-Year Business: A Conversation with Donna Alteen

In this episode of 'The Real Bottom Line,' host Wendy welcomes her guest Donna Alteen, a seasoned entrepreneur who shares her extensive experience in running and eventually selling her business after 35 years. Donna emphasizes the importance of early planning, setting up a leadership team, and engaging financial advisors and other professionals well in advance of the sale. She candidly discusses the emotional and procedural aspects of the transition, including the due diligence process and maintaining company culture post-sale. The episode provides valuable insights for entrepreneurs contemplating the sale of their own businesses.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:14 Starting to Think About Selling

02:13 Preparing the Business for Sale

04:13 Engaging the Leadership Team

06:31 Finding the Right Buyer

14:43 Due Diligence Process

18:40 Post-Sale Reflections and Advice

33:29 Final Thoughts and Conclusion

Find Donna on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-alteen-icd-d-6209483/

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