Powder Coater Podcast

You’re selling your life’s work. They’re buying a spreadsheet.

That may be one of the hardest parts of selling a business to accept.

In Episode 77 of The Powder Coater Podcast, we continue The Succession Episodes by talking about who is actually on the other side of the table—and why that changes everything.

A strategic buyer may want your customers and capacity.

Private equity and searchers want cash flow and systems.

An employee may want the business they already know how to run.

And family succession can become a problem fast if the company was never built to transfer.

We also get into the first moves owners should make years before they plan to sell:

clean financials, believable add-backs, confidentiality, knowing your real earnings, and building the right deal team.

Because the people in your corner—and the person across the table—can both change the number.

THE SUCCESSION EPISODES — EPISODE 76

Someone may buy your shop someday. But who buys it can completely change what they think it's worth, what they care about during due diligence, how the deal gets structured, and what you should be doing now to prepare.

In Episode 76, Kim and Sandee look at powder coating businesses through the eyes of the buyer. Because a competitor, an individual entrepreneur, a search fund, private equity group, employee, or family member aren't buying the same thing—even when they're looking at the exact same shop.

Add your job shop to the Powder Coating Near Me directory https://www.powdercoatingnearme.com/add-listing/ https://www.powdercoatingnearme.com/tips-for-managing-your-listing/

The Succession Episodes: The Exit Is Just The Beginning- Part 1

In this multi-part series of The Powder Coater Podcast, Kim sits down with another former shop owner to talk candidly about what happens when the business you built becomes something you may eventually need to sell.

Both women have now gone through the process of exiting their powder coating businesses, giving them a rare perspective on succession, valuation, buyer expectations, due diligence, owner dependency, and the emotional side of handing over the keys.

Today they focus on an overview of their personal stories vs the realities owners often do not confront until a buyer starts looking closely. Later how to turn those lessons into practical action, with steps shop owners can take now to build stronger systems, cleaner financials, better leadership, and a business that can operate without them.

Whether you plan to sell in three years, ten years, or never, the bigger question is the same: are you building a business that owns your time, or an asset that can stand on its own?

In this episode of the Powder Coat Podcast, host Kim Scott interviews leadership consultant Nikhil Raval about generational dynamics in the workplace. They explore the unique perspectives and challenges posed by Gen Z, emphasizing the need for a balanced management style and a learning culture. Nikhil highlights the importance of understanding the context in which each generation grew up, particularly Gen Z's experiences with technology, mental well-being, and instant feedback. The discussion also covers strategies for engaging and retaining younger employees, such as reverse mentoring and virtual reality technologies, and underscores the need for empathy and understanding across generations.

Featured Links

We know many things are made or manufactured in America but what does the meaning of "Made in America" really mean? ​Find out how one equipment supplier has found new meaning in the phrase "Made in America" and how he intends to seek new markets & branding with "The Sticker" everyone is so familiar with. We delve into the process, who regulates it and some history of the these 3 words which have been woven into our American culture. Get ready to level up your powder coater game!

In this podcast episode, host Kim leads a discussion with various powder coating professionals from across the U.S. The main focus is the potential ban of methylene chloride and its impact on the industry. Jay from North Carolina, Rich from Michigan, Shane from Michigan, and Robert from Texas share their insights and experiences, discussing alternative methods for chemical stripping and the challenges faced by smaller shops. The conversation also touches on safety measures, business management, and the importance of community support. The episode highlights the collaborative spirit within the powder coating industry and the need for continuous learning and adaptation. Sitting down with great custom coaters & a boatload of giveaways. Its gonna be fun! 

Featured Links

Letter to Benco

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ct7SOcGUv3iS8RY6aFT4GOFcRb5rvj7mNRq3UW94FNo/edit?usp=sharing Financial Success Workshop with Kim & Shelby

Register https://lu.ma/chx82w6z

In this episode of the Powder Coater Podcast, Kim Scott interviews Scott Crossley from ACT Test Panels. They delve into the technical aspects of powder coating, discussing the intricacies of bonding, the importance of heat and pressure in the process, and the explosive nature of metallic flakes. Crossley shares insights on impact and salt testing, emphasizing the role of pre-treatment in preventing rust. The conversation also covers the meticulous data organization and humidity control in their operations, the potential for automation to reduce human error, and the need for planning in the finishing process. They explore innovative coating methods and the importance of aligning design with production capabilities. The episode concludes with advice on ordering test panels and an invitation to reach out to ACT Test Panels for guidance.

Featured Links:

https://acttestpanels.com/

Scott Crosley LinkedIn

In this podcast episode, host Kim interviews Valerie Lennon from Benko B17 about the recent ban on methylene chloride. They discuss its vital role in industries like aircraft and wood stripping, and the challenges the ban presents. Valerie explains the 2018 ban for retail DIY markets due to safety concerns and stresses the need for safety practices to prevent fatal exposure. They explore the ban's impact, industry adjustments, and safety measures like ventilation. Valerie disputes claims about the chemical's carcinogenicity, citing a study showing lower cancer rates in exposed workers. The episode concludes with a commitment to keep listeners informed on regulatory updates.

Featured links

https://p2infohouse.org/ref/17/16558.pdf https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/sites/default/files/classic/toxics/id/summary/methylene_c.pdf

In this episode of the Powder Coater Podcast, host Kim Scott interviews Sandee Andrews from Andrews Powder Coating. They discuss the company's evolution, emphasizing the role of certifications and specialty coatings in distinguishing their business in a competitive market. Sandee highlights the transition from chromate to environmentally safer zirconium in their pre-treatment system and the importance of ISO 9001 and AS 9100 certifications for quality management and aerospace projects. They also address the challenges of meeting military specifications and the decision against pursuing PCI 3000 certification. Operational strategies, such as minimizing paperwork through technology and the role of consultants, are also covered. Marketing strategies, the impact of social media algorithm changes, and the dynamics of running a business with a partner are discussed, along with the unique experiences of women in the industry.

Featured Guest Links

AAMA Specs

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandeeandrews/

https://powdercoater.com/

Tim Pennington's Interview

In this podcast episode, Marty Sawyer, CEO of Tri-Mack Industries, delves into the intricacies of powder coating processes, focusing on reducing the carbon footprint. She compares convection and infrared ovens, discussing their load modulation and fuel consumption. Sawyer emphasizes the importance of data in optimizing time and temperature for curing, and the cost and environmental benefits of using efficient ovens. The conversation also covers the challenges of reducing gas usage, the significance of publicizing sustainability efforts, and the role of regulations. The episode is a deep dive into energy efficiency and sustainability in industrial powder coating.

Featured Guest Links

https://www.trimacsystems.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/martysawyer/