Mark Coster joins this episode to share his insights on business succession planning and the evolution of the startup scene. The discussion begins with a look at Apple product longevity and Zack's experience with a new MacBook. Tim's recent trip to Maui and ergonomic chairs segue into a conversation on targeted and geolocated advertising. Mark delves into his career background, highlighting growth experiences with PRA Group and CarMax. The episode explores regional business competition, search funds, and offers advice for founders on succession and market transitions. Mark discusses operational insights, local retention advantages, and the changing venture capital landscape, touching on mergers, acquisitions, and entrepreneurship in Hampton Roads. Key Takeaways A lack of redundancy in key business roles and unclear financials can be significant risks for a business. Entrepreneurship through acquisition (ETA) offers a viable path for growth and transition for both operators and business owners. Having solid data processes and clear documentation is crucial for both daily operations and preparing for potential business exits. (0:00) Planning business succession and Apple product longevity (2:24) Zack's new MacBook and Tim's trip to Maui (4:10) Ergonomic chairs and targeted advertising (6:16) Geolocated advertising and meeting Mark Coster (9:49) Mark Coster's startup scene and career background (12:08) Growth of PRA Group and CarMax experience (18:16) Regional business competition and search funds (22:39) Advice for founders on succession and market transitions (26:08) Operational insights and Trader Interactive's legacy (32:12) Local retention advantages and scaling with talent (34:36) Changing venture capital landscape (37:03) Mergers and acquisitions for growth (41:12) Acquisition readiness and maintaining a data room (47:14) Measuring for impact and deal-killing red flags (51:16) Customer retention importance (52:31) UVA basketball and culinary debates (59:49) Entrepreneurship through acquisition in Hampton Roads (1:01:11) Closing remarks and wrap-up

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