We know that every successful exit is more than just a transaction—it’s the final chapter of a story shaped by years of grit, vision, and leadership. One of the most powerful stories we’ve been honored to be part of is that of a long-time friend who transitioned from surviving one of the toughest business climates in recent history to executing a successful sale with clarity and confidence.
This journey began during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. At the time, Exit Pathways hadn’t yet been founded, and our relationship wasn’t professional—it was personal. He was a close friend, someone I had known for decades. When his hospitality business saw revenue plummet to zero almost overnight, he reached out—not for a business consultation, but for support during an uncertain and emotionally heavy moment.
His dilemma was one shared by many business owners: how do you lead through crisis when your team is like family, your revenue has disappeared, and the future is unclear? He wrestled with the heartbreaking reality of potentially having to lay off several employees—some who had been with him for nearly 20 years. We had long, difficult conversations, grounded in honesty. I asked, “Can you keep the business afloat if you make the tough calls? What happens if you don’t?” These weren’t easy decisions, but ultimately, he acted. He did what great leaders do—he made the hard choices for the greater good of the business.
Those decisions bought him time. More importantly, they laid the groundwork for recovery. Over the next few years, he didn’t wait passively for things to return to normal—he rebuilt. He refined his business model, reconnected with clients, and began to position his company for long-term value creation. By the time the market began to rebound, he was ready—not just to survive, but to thrive.
Years after those first late-night conversations, he came to me with a clear goal: he was ready to sell. This time, we partnered professionally to map out an exit strategy aligned with his personal and financial goals. We helped him evaluate the right timing, position the business to maximize value, and ultimately, negotiate a deal that reflected the full worth of what he had built.
When the transaction closed, it marked a major milestone. But the real achievement wasn’t just in the final valuation—it was in everything that came before: the resilience, the leadership, the long game. This success story is a testament to the kind of client we’re built to serve: thoughtful, committed leaders who are ready to make bold moves, even when the path isn’t clear.
Every exit has a backstory. This one is about more than just persistence—it’s about growth through adversity. And for those considering their own exit, it’s a reminder that with the right timing, support, and strategy, even the most challenging journeys can lead to the most rewarding outcomes.
Ready to write your next chapter? We’re here when you are.
Author: Brent Drever, Managing Partner
