Discover business acumen: core components, traits of leaders, development steps & metrics to boost decision-making and scale success.
Growing a business is tough. Scaling it to nine figures and preparing for a smart exit is something else entirely.
In this episode of Catalyst for the Trades, Jennifer Bagley and Chuck Staszkiewicz sit down with George Donaldson, the former CEO of Fix It 24/7. George took the company from $1.7 million to $100 million in just seven years. He shares the strategies that made it possible and how you can apply them to your business.
Whether you're just starting or thinking about your exit plan, this conversation delivers real-world advice that works.
Most companies hit a ceiling because their systems, teams, or mindset can’t support more growth. George explains how to fix that by making smart decisions about structure, leadership, and timing.
1. You Need an Exit Strategy Now
It’s not too early to plan for your exit. Whether you want to sell, hand the business to family, or step away later, you need a clear plan to make it happen.
2. Build Value Into the Business
George explains what makes a business attractive to buyers and investors. Hint: it’s not just revenue. It’s how well your company runs without you.
3. Leadership Is the Growth Engine
You can’t scale without leading. That means casting vision, building trust, and empowering your team to take ownership.
4. Break Through Plateaus With Systems
Every business hits revenue walls. George shares the systems and decisions that helped him push past each one.
5. Private Equity Can Be a Smart Move
Partnering with the right investors can give you capital, structure, and exit flexibility. Learn when it makes sense and how to prepare for it.

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