Poised for Exit

In this episode of Poised for Exit, we sit down with Liz Ennenga [https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-ennenga-0b60812/], CEO and Founder of Quad E Companies, Inc. [https://quadecompanies.com/] to explore her inspiring transition from the corporate world to becoming a 100% shareholder of her own contracting firm. Liz shares how she left a successful corporate career at Target to launch Quad E, an excavation company focused on small to medium-sized commercial and government projects, and what she’s learned building a nimble, union-based team in a male-dominated industry. She and Julie dive into the importance of mentorship, storytelling, and relationship-building when growing a business. Plus, they discuss the role that confidence and trust play in leadership and compensation (especially for women founders). You’ll hear Liz’s philosophy on smart, efficient growth, how she identifies ideal general contractor partners, and why she’s embracing exit planning early after reading Julie’s book. From building scalable systems to attending Julie's upcoming workshop on the 24th, Liz is laying the groundwork now to ensure Quad E can continue to grow and succeed well into the future. Contact Liz at Elizabeth.Ennenga@quadecompanies.com Connect with Liz here [https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-ennenga-0b60812/] Find Quad E Companies, Inc. here [https://quadecompanies.com/] Connect with Julie Keyes [https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliekeyes/], Keyestrategies LLC Founder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor

In this episode of Poised for Exit, we sit down with Erica Haataja [https://www.linkedin.com/in/erica-haataja-766a52276/], owner of Nordic Shine LLC [https://www.linkedin.com/company/nordic-shine-llc/] to uncover how she and her husband built a refined construction-site cleaning business that thrives on purposeful systems and real connection. Erica breaks down Nordic Shine’s standout services - whether it’s post-construction clean-ups for commercial sites or recurring maintenance plans. She highlights their edge: genuine communication, detail-oriented work, and a values-driven approach to hiring that ensures trust and performance. As a female entrepreneur in a male-dominated field, Erica shares how involvement with the Association of Women Contractors helped her overcome imposter syndrome and affirm her worth - including learning to say “no” when a job doesn’t align with her standards. Looking ahead, Erica outlines a strategic growth vision spanning the next three to five years: cultivating steady recurring contracts in multi-unit and commercial spaces, building a pipeline of high-caliber cleaners, and systemizing operations with checklists and streamlined workflows. Her psychology background also plays a powerful role in her leadership. She uses emotional intelligence and humor to connect with crews, defuse tension on-site, and handle tough moments with poise and professionalism. This episode gave you a true look behind the scenes of starting and scaling a business - proof that ambition, systems, and heart make all the difference. Contact Erica at nordicshinellc@gmail.com [nordicshinellc@gmail.com] Connect with Erica here [https://www.linkedin.com/in/erica-haataja-766a52276/] Find Nordic Shine, LLC here [https://www.linkedin.com/company/nordic-shine-llc/] Connect with Julie Keyes [https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliekeyes/], Keyestrategies LLC Founder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor

In this episode of Poised for Exit, we sit down with Matt Silasiri [https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-silasiri-920648152/], Vice President of Business Development at True North M&A [https://www.tnma.com/], to talk all about the upcoming 3rd Annual M&A Summit [https://www.tnma.com/3rd-annual-m-and-a-summit-2025/], happening September 17th at the JW Marriott at Mall of America in Bloomington, MN. This exclusive event is designed for business owners, advisors, and industry professionals who want to deepen their understanding of the mergers and acquisitions process - whether they're planning to sell, thinking about succession, or exploring growth through acquisition. Matt and Julie walk through the full agenda, which includes expert panels, a live valuation case study, a buy-side and sell-side panel with real clients, and an economic update from the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce. One of the most anticipated parts of the event is the keynote presentation by David Horsager, CEO of the Trust Edge Leadership Institute. Horsager’s talk will dive into the critical role trust plays in M&A transactions and business leadership - and all attendees will receive a copy of his new book. Beyond the programming, this event is also about building connections. With dedicated networking opportunities, reserved table options, and a who's who of Minnesota’s business community in attendance, it’s a day built for both education and strategic relationship-building. Julie shares her experience attending the event in prior years and why she believes it’s a must-attend for business owners at any stage. Whether you’re just starting to think about an exit or actively preparing for one, this event is one that will help you get clear on your next steps and the value of being proactive. Contact Matt at msilasiri@sunbeltmidwest.com [msilasiri@sunbeltmidwest.com] Connect with Matt here [https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-silasiri-920648152/] Find True North M&A here [https://www.tnma.com/] Learn more about the M&A Summit Event here [https://www.tnma.com/3rd-annual-m-and-a-summit-2025/] https://www.tnma.com/3rd-annual-m-and-a-summit-2025/ Connect with Julie Keyes [https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliekeyes/], Keyestrategies LLC Founder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor

In this episode of Poised for Exit, we sit down with Shalin Johnson [https://www.linkedin.com/in/shalinjohnson/], Vice President of Business Insurance at Marsh McLennan Agency [https://www.marshmma.com/], to talk about how risk management can increase company value and support smoother business transitions. With 25 years of experience and a focus on manufacturing clients, Shalin shares why risk management is more than just insurance. He walks us through how strong risk platforms not only reduce liability but also improve employee morale, attract buyers, and prevent last-minute surprises during M&A deals. One example highlights how a single overlooked risk could derail a sale and how to avoid it. We also discuss the evolving insurance needs of growing companies, especially as they adopt new technologies. Shaylin breaks down the importance of directors and officers insurance, cyber coverage, and staying proactive as risks shift. If you’re thinking about scaling, selling, or just want more peace of mind, this episode is full of practical insight to help you strengthen your business foundation and protect your long-term goals. Find Shalin here [https://www.linkedin.com/in/shalinjohnson/] or email shalin.johnson@marshmma.com [shalin.johnson@marshmma.com] Find Marsh McLennan Agency here [https://www.marshmma.com/] Connect with Julie Keyes [https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliekeyes/], Keyestrategies LLC Founder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor

In this episode of Poised for Exit, we sat down with John Schwalbach [https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-s-schwalbach-cfp%C2%AE-aif%C2%AE-clu%C2%AE-cepa-1b07977/], partner and financial advisor at Freedom Financial Partners [https://ffpforme.com/], to talk about how financial planning plays a critical role in the success of any business exit. John brings a unique perspective as both a financial expert and entrepreneur. He shared stories from his work with business owners and broke down the biggest financial planning mistakes owners make when preparing for a sale. One client example showed how an $18 million offer quickly became $11 million after taxes, debt, and fees - an eye-opener for anyone counting on a business sale to fund their future. We walked through John’s signature three-meeting process, which helps owners and their spouses align on personal goals, financial needs, and life after exit. He also introduced the concept of the “freedom score” the amount of money needed to live your ideal life - and how to calculate and close that gap. From building a financial plan that includes the value of your business to understanding your post-exit lifestyle needs, this episode is filled with actionable insight for business owners at every stage. If you think it’s too early to start planning your exit, think again -this conversation shows why early planning is smart business. Find John here [https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-s-schwalbach-cfp%C2%AE-aif%C2%AE-clu%C2%AE-cepa-1b07977/] Find Freedom Financial Partners here [https://ffpforme.com/] Take the business owner readiness assessment here [http://www.ffpforme.com/exit] Use the free valuation tool here [https://ffpforme.bizequity.com/] Connect with Julie Keyes [https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliekeyes/], Keyestrategies LLC Founder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor