))
33: Inside a Founder’s Exit Journey: Structuring for Scale, Earning Trust, and Choosing the Right Buyer
Manage episode 523274638 series 3670163
Frustrated by outdated agency models, Wesley Portegies founded MedComms Experts and scaled it to a 90-person firm across the US and Europe. In this episode, Wesley reveals how he prepped for exit without ever planning one—building solid systems, exploring investor conversations early, and ultimately finding a strategic partner aligned with his vision. A masterclass in founder succession, agency growth, and exit readiness, this episode is a must-listen for founders serious about scaling and strategic exits.
Key Takeaways:
- Founders should start investor conversations early—even without plans to sell.
- Run your business like it’s for sale, regardless of your current exit timeline.
- Early systems and contracts (employment, client, GDPR) are critical for smooth exits.
- Fit with investors is more important than valuation—trust and aligned vision matter.
- Strategic frameworks (like TreeHack) support scale by aligning teams and communication.
- A failed exit can still provide huge value—Wesley used it as a learning & prep tool.
- Transparency builds trust: share “the good, the bad, and the ugly” during diligence.
- Inorganic growth requires partners with experience, not just capital.
Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
01:26 – Meet Wesley Portegies, Exited Founder
02:03 – Wesley’s Entrepreneurial Beginnings
07:58 – Growth Journey and Key Insights
14:16 – Realizing the Business’s Sellable Potential
19:03 – Preparing for Investment and Growth
41:27 – Final Thoughts and Advice
Links & Resources
- Wesley Porteiges
Subscribe to the Podcast:
Find From Angel to Exit on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you listen. Be sure to hit “Subscribe” so you never miss an episode.
Newsletter & Exclusive Content:
Sign up for the free newsletter at eckfeldt.com/podcast for episode transcripts, bonus insights, frameworks, and community updates.
Connect with Bruce & the Community:
LinkedIn: Bruce Eckfeldt
Instagram: @bruce_eckfeldt
Email:
34 episodes
Share
