Building a Business Worth Buying with Scott Hanson

Episode 161: This week, Kyle Van Pelt talks with Scott Hanson, Cofounder at Allworth Financial. Scott helped build the firm and led it through acquisitions, private equity ownership, and recapitalization before stepping aside as CEO. Drawing on experience as both a buyer and seller, he wrote The Private Equity Advantage to help business owners approach succession with greater clarity and intention.

Kyle and Scott explore what separates a successful transaction from simply getting a deal done. Scott explains why growth and cultural fit matter, how deal terms shape outcomes, and why planning should begin well before a letter of intent. They also discuss choosing experienced legal counsel, communicating change to employees, and preparing emotionally for a different role. Scott reflects on his own transition out of leadership and shares why understanding your strengths—and defining success on your own terms—is essential to building a fulfilling next chapter.

In this episode:

(00:00) - Intro

(02:52) - Debunking private equity myths 

(05:53) - Why integration is harder than closing the deal 

(07:13) - The current state of M&A in wealth management

(10:33) - The mindset that makes an acquisition successful 

(13:47) - Structuring a tax-efficient transaction  

(15:56) - How to choose the right M&A attorney 

(19:36) - Preparing for life after selling a business

(24:21) - Identifying the strengths that give you energy