Mastering the Business Exit Journey

Mastering the Business Exit Journey with Adam McNair: Stability in GovCon

In the final episode of the series, Dave Blackburn welcomes back Adam to unpack one of the most critical and often underestimated factors in GovCon transactions: stability.
Adam breaks down why stability isn’t just about financial performance, but also about predictability, culture, and the people involved. From forecasting accuracy to win rates, customer relationships, and team continuity, he explains how demonstrating consistency can directly impact deal value, deal structure, and even whether a transaction closes at all.
They also explore the hidden costs of instability, lower valuations, extended earn-outs, delayed closings, and post-transaction headaches that can echo for years. With real-world insights from private equity and strategic acquisitions alike, Adam shares what buyers are really looking for and how sellers can position themselves as a “well-oiled machine” that investors want to own, not overhaul.
To connect with Adam, visit his LinkedIn page here.

Mastering the Business Exit Journey with Adam McNair: Investments & Sunk Costs in GovCon

Listen to the sixth episode as David Blackburn and Adam tackle a critical question for any business anticipating a transaction: what investments create value, and which ones destroy it? Adam shares lessons from both the buy- and sell-side on how to evaluate spending decisions in people, facilities, platforms, and tools when an exit may be on the horizon. 
From avoiding multi-year commitments that can tank valuation, to negotiating flexibility in leases and subscriptions, to distinguishing between true differentiators and “nice-to-haves,” this conversation offers practical guidance for leaders preparing to scale or sell. They also explore the dangers of vanity projects and commingled side businesses that can complicate or derail a deal, and how to unwind them before diligence begins. This episode helps leaders protect downside risk while positioning their companies for maximum upside.
To connect with Adam, visit his LinkedIn page here.

Mastering the Business Exit Journey with Adam McNair: Compliance and Training in GovCon

The fifth episode in this series features a conversation with David Blackburn and Adam as they dive into one of the least glamorous, but most critical, parts of mergers and acquisitions - compliance. From labor category audits and security clearances to tax exposure, HR policies, and even state-specific benefits laws, Adam shares real-world examples of how overlooked details can derail deals, drain valuation, and rack up legal bills. With practical steps for getting ahead of risks and building trust with buyers, this conversation is a must-listen for leaders preparing to buy, sell, or scale in the GovCon space.
To connect with Adam, visit his LinkedIn page here.

Mastering the Business Exit Journey with Adam McNair: Delivery Maturity in GovCon

The fourth episode in this series features a conversation with David Blackburn and Adam to unpack what truly drives value in an acquisition. From the ‘sweet spot’ of delivery maturity to the critical artifacts that prove performance, they explore how leadership structures, resourcing, and customer relationships impact valuation—and why avoiding last-minute ‘coat of paint’ fixes is key. Packed with practical insights, this conversation is a must-listen for any business leader preparing to buy or sell.
To connect with Adam, visit his LinkedIn page here.

Mastering the Business Exit Journey with Adam McNair: Growth Maturity in GovCon

Thinking about selling your company or growing through acquisition? This third episode lays the groundwork for presenting your business effectively during a transaction.
David Blackburn sits down with GovCon expert Adam McNair to unpack what matters to buyers—beyond just financials. They explore how to confidently present your pipeline, articulate your value in partnerships, and show maturity in operations that build trust with investors.
Whether you're preparing to exit or simply leveling up your business, this is the kind of strategic insight you can’t afford to miss.
To connect with Adam, visit his LinkedIn page here.

Mastering the Business Exit Journey with Adam McNair: Defining Your Identity in GovCon

In this second episode of Mastering the Business Exit Journey, host David Blackburn sits down with GovCon veteran ⁠Adam McNair⁠ to discuss the topic of Your Identity – How do you explain the value of your organization as a purchase? They unpack what really matters when preparing your company for growth, acquisition, or exit. From crafting your company story to understanding buyer profiles and valuation drivers, Adam shares decades of experience navigating both buy-side and sell-side transactions.
If you’re thinking about selling—or simply want to build a more valuable company—this episode should be a key part of your roadmap.
To connect with Adam, visit his LinkedIn page here.

Mastering the Business Exit Journey with Adam McNair: What Does a Successful Exit Look Like for You?

In the first episode, David Blackburn talks with Adam McNair about a critical question every business owner must face: What does a successful exit look like for you? From maximizing profits and preserving legacy to ensuring team continuity and simplifying handoffs, this episode unpacks the diverse goals and complex emotions tied to exiting a business. With real-world examples and expert advice, it emphasizes the importance of early, ongoing conversations and tailored preparation based on your exit goals. Whether you're years away or thinking about selling soon, this episode offers essential guidance to help you plan strategically and avoid common pitfalls.