Selling a Family Business: A Conversation with Charles Shook and Leah Jane Barnwell

In the latest episode of Trust Company Talks, hosts Bill Noble and Burke Koonce explore the world of small business mergers and acquisitions (M&A). Charles Shook, founder of Trestle Capital Partners, and Leah Jane Barnwell, CRPC®, Trust Company's strategic initiatives manager, join them. They offer practical advice and personal stories for family business owners thinking about selling.Leah Jane reflects on her family's journey with their manufacturing business, emphasizing the need to find a buyer who values the company's legacy and cares for the employees. She emphasizes that selling a family business is never just about the financials; the emotional side plays a key role in making the right decision.Charles Shook shares his expertise on search funds, an option for business owners seeking a smooth transition. He also outlines the importance of preparing a business for sale, focusing on long-term planning and how to make a business attractive to buyers, even in unpredictable markets.Listeners will hear about:Balancing emotional and business concerns when selling a family-owned companySearch funds as an appealing option for those seeking the right buyerKey steps to ensure a successful business saleHow to select a buyer who will continue the company’s vision and valuesListen to this episode for practical advice on navigating the M&A process and ensuring a smooth transition for your family business.As always, if you have any questions, please contact us.Trust Company Talks is a production of Trust Company of the South, one of the premier wealth management firms in the Southeast. Trust Company is a privately held firm based in Greensboro, NC, with offices in Charlotte and Raleigh. You can find more episodes of Trust Company Talks on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Receive the episodes as soon as they premiere by subscribing today.