How to Build, Buy, and Sell a Business That’s actually Worth Something — Featuring Joel Duran
Episode 2 of Constructive Interference with Rufus Cressend
Most entrepreneurs think they own a business — but they really own a job.
That bold truth is at the center of Episode 2 of Constructive Interference, where host Rufus Cressend interviews M&A advisor and certified exit planner Joel Duran of Duran Advisors. In this conversation, Joel reveals the real drivers of business value, how to prepare for growth through acquisition, and why most business owners are flying blind when it comes to their exit strategy.
🎙️ Key Topics Covered in This Episode:
Why down markets are prime time to acquire
The 8 key drivers of business value every entrepreneur should measure
How one operational tweak added $500K to a business valuation
The difference between owning a job vs. owning a system
Why most acquisitions fail due to poor fit — not price
How to stress-test your business for real growth
What strategic buyers look for (and how to be one)
Why exit planning = good business planning
🧠 Takeaways You Can Apply Now:
✅ Get a valuation — Even if you're not selling, knowing your business’s worth helps you grow more strategically.
✅ Don’t wait for a crisis to prepare — Start building infrastructure and relationships (like with banks) before you need them.
✅ If your business can’t run without you, it’s not valuable — Build systems, processes, and teams that make your company transferable.
✅ Synergy matters more than revenue — Smart acquisitions amplify what you already do well.
📈 Why This Episode Matters for Founders, CEOs, and Small Business Owners
Whether you’re looking to sell your business, acquire another, or just grow smarter, this episode gives you a blueprint. Joel Duran has helped 100+ entrepreneurs buy and sell businesses — and in this episode, he shares the kind of advice most people only get after they’ve made a costly mistake.
This is a must-listen if you're building a company with long-term value in mind.
🔗 Listen to the Episode Now:
🎧 Spotify
🍎 Apple Podcasts
📺 YouTube
📱 Amazon Music
❤️ iHeartRadio
