One of the most powerful insights from the Value Builder System—based on data from over 80,000 business owners—is this:
Companies that can operate smoothly without owner involvement for at least 90 days are twice as likely to receive premium acquisition offers.
That’s not a theory—it’s real-world data.
The concept is simple:
The less your business depends on you, the more it’s worth to someone else.
But executing that idea? That’s where most owners hit a wall.
From Hustler to Architect: Kristie’s Story
Kristie Shifflette, one of the first master franchisees for Orangetheory Fitness, started like many entrepreneurs—wearing every hat. She ran marketing, hiring, construction, payroll—you name it.
And it worked.
But only because she was working constantly.
When she opened a second location, cracks started to form.
At three, the seams split. The model only worked if Kristie was the model.
That’s a hard truth many owners face:
If your business falls apart when you’re not there, it’s not a business—it’s a job with overhead.
So, Kristie changed course.
She stopped working in the business and started working on the business.
The Playbook Strategy
Kristie began documenting everything—from pre-sale procedures to front-desk workflows.
She created an operations manual to guide each studio’s daily functions—without her.
She also built a compensation plan that turned her studio managers into invested leaders.
With performance bonuses tied to member growth and revenue, each manager became a mini-CEO.
This wasn’t delegation—it was ownership.
And it made all the difference.
The Payoff
By the time she sold the business, Kristie had scaled to 13 locations generating over $10 million annually. One studio alone earned $2 million in revenue with EBITDA margins around 40%.
Those are elite numbers. But more importantly?
She received a premium offer—because the business didn’t need her to keep going.
It was well-oiled, well-led, and well-documented—a buyer’s dream.
And that’s what commands premium multiples.
So, What’s the Lesson?
If your business still revolves around you, you’re likely holding back its value.
Ask yourself:
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What would break if I took a 90-day vacation?
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Would sales stall? Would customers notice? Would your team panic?
That’s your roadmap.
Wherever the cracks appear, that’s where the work begins:
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Build systems.
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Create a playbook.
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Empower leaders.
Even a few steps in that direction can dramatically increase your business’s value—and make it more enjoyable to own.
Ready to Build a Business That Runs Without You?
If you’re considering selling in the next few years, this shift—from operator to owner—is the most important step you can take.
Let’s talk.
We’ll identify the gaps, build your systems, and position your business for the kind of exit most owners only dream about.
📞 Call or text 479-263-7330
📅 Or click here to schedule a confidential meeting
You’ll walk away with clarity, a plan, and maybe even some peace of mind.
Thinking ahead?
Whether your exit is a few years away or just around the corner, I’d be happy to offer a complimentary business valuation—a simple, no-strings assessment to give you a clearer picture of what your business may be worth in today’s market.
The more you know now, the better you can plan for a successful (and profitable) future.
