The M&A Mastermind Podcast
The M&A Mastermind Podcast
Nick Olsen
A Business Owner’s 20-Year Exit Story Feat. Catherine Lang-Cline | Ep. 146
35 minutes Posted Aug 6, 2026 at 2:00 pm.
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In this episode, Catherine Lang-Cline, longtime CEO of Portfolio Creative, joins host Nick Olsen to share how she prepared her business for a successful sale after 20 years — from mentor advice and team timing to choosing the right M&A advisor and buyer.
Key Topics:
Deciding to sell after 20 years
Preparing a business to run without the owner
The mentor advice that shaped her exit strategy
When (and why) to tell your team about a sale
Choosing the right M&A advisory team
Strategic vs. financial buyers
Why multiple offers matter
The mental and identity side of letting go
Advice for business owners considering a sale
About the Show:The M&A Mastermind Podcast delivers actionable insights and strategies for lower middle market dealmakers. Hosted by Nick Olsen, each episode features leading industry experts sharing knowledge on deal management, market intelligence, and strategic partnerships to help M&A advisors and business owners navigate the deal lifecycle.
Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@cornerstone_intl_allianceFind all episodes: https://cornerstoneia.com/podcast/cornerstoneia
Resources:Catherine Lang-Cline LinkedIn | Catherine Lang-Cline's Website & Book | Nick Olsen LinkedIn | Cornerstone International Alliance
Keywords: exit planning, business valuation, selling a business, lower middle market, mergers and acquisitions, M&A, deal structure, M&A advisors, buyer selection, private equity, sell side, business owner, women in business