In this episode of Founders, Future, host Ammar Elm sits down with Daniel Sweet, Managing Partner of Sweetview Partners, to explore his journey from 27 years in big tech to acquiring and scaling Texas-based small businesses. Daniel shares how Sweetview targets "peak entrepreneurialism" companies—those stuck at $5M–$30M revenue due to owner dependency—and transforms them through operational upgrades, sales team implementation, and strategic exits. He reveals why niche expertise (like his background in energy, tech, and construction) is critical for diagnosing hidden problems and unlocking value.

Daniel dives into the pitfalls small business owners make (like treating their company as "a job with leverage"), how AI is revolutionizing financial analysis for acquisitions, and why trust trumps cold outreach in the M&A world. He also teases his new book, Unlocking Small Business Value, which demystifies valuation and exit strategies—while serving as a brilliant lead gen tool for Sweetview’s long sales cycles. For anyone curious about search funds, buying vs. building, or leveraging industry experience for acquisition success, this episode is packed with tactical insights.