#192 The Ultimate Playbook to Buy & Scale Small Businesses
from Owned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast
by John Wilson
Published: Fri May 02 2025
Show Notes
The Ultimate Playbook to Buy & Scale Small Businesses
Want to grow your business through smart acquisitions, direct outreach, and personal branding? In this episode of JackQuisitions, we dive deep into the art of buying small businesses and building relationships that close deals. Host Jack sits down with an experienced operator to explore what it really takes to acquire businesses, from cold calls to contract signing.
Whether you’re a new buyer, an aspiring entrepreneur, or an operator aiming to expand your portfolio, this episode is your blueprint for mastering business acquisitions, deal structuring, and effective broker relations. Learn proven strategies for sourcing deals, building trust with sellers, and navigating private equity competition.
Discover how top acquirers are identifying great opportunities, building authentic connections, and using storytelling to stand out in a crowded market. You’ll also hear real-life examples of deals—from pool cleaning to art framing shops—and gain insight into due diligence, deal terms, and transitioning ownership the right way.
🚨 In This Episode, We Cover:
🔹 How to cold call and source small business deals effectively
🔹 The challenges and benefits of working with private equity vs. good operators
🔹 Why storytelling and personal branding are key to broker success
🔹 Real-world acquisition stories: from pool cleaning to art framing
🔹 How to handle deal terms, due diligence, and transitions smoothly
🔹 Tips for standing out as a serious buyer in a competitive market
💼 Special Thanks to First Internet Bank!
Looking to buy or expand a business? First Internet Bank is a National Preferred SBA lender specializing in acquisitions for the skilled trades. Their SBA7a loan program offers up to 90% financing for business acquisitions, partner buyouts, and commercial real estate—plus optional lines of credit to fuel future growth. Unlike traditional lenders, they take a “how can we” approach, making deals happen for both first-time buyers and experienced operators.
👉 Special Offer: Mention Owned and Operated for a reduced good faith deposit and a complimentary deal review + buyside prequalification.
Get Started Here
🎙️ Episode Host:
🗣️ Jack – x.com/thehvacjack
🎙️ Episode Guest:
🗣️ Chris Barr - Linkedin
📢 Enjoyed the episode?
✅ Like, Comment & Subscribe for weekly insights on business acquisitions, deal flow, marketing, and growth strategies!
Contact Owned and Operated:
More Ways To Connect with O&O
John Wilson, CEO of Wilson Companies
Jack Carr, CEO of Rapid HVAC