M&A Zing (S2EP5) - Mastering the First Acquisition: Cal Shelton’s Playbook for Growth
Season 2, Episode 5, Aug 06, 05:00 PM
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Join Alfie Lambert in conversation with Cal Shelton, founder of Precision MSK Health, as they dive into Cal’s unconventional journey from chartered accountancy and insolvency practice to acquiring his first business. Learn why Cal chose a smaller, self-funded first acquisition, the critical lessons learned, and his innovative strategy to scale through consulting-for-equity.
In this illuminating episode of The M&AZing Podcast, host Alfie Lambert talks with Cal Shelton, entrepreneur and owner of Precision MSK Health. Cal shares his transition from working in insolvency and consulting roles into the acquisition entrepreneurship space, focusing specifically on the health sector. Unlike many acquisition entrepreneurs chasing large initial deals, Cal strategically chose a smaller, manageable first acquisition to gain critical insights and experience.
Throughout the discussion, Cal openly recounts the challenges, pitfalls, and lessons he encountered, including crucial insights about seller dynamics, effective communication, and cash flow management. He also outlines his unique approach to growth by employing a "consulting-for-equity" model, helping businesses become sale-ready while building strategic equity positions.
Whether you're a first-time acquisition entrepreneur or a seasoned business operator, this episode offers actionable insights, honest reflections, and a practical roadmap to navigate your first business purchase successfully and strategically scale your venture.
⏰ Timestamped Episode Breakdown:
[00:00] – Introduction and background to Cal Shelton
[02:17] – Cal’s journey from insolvency practice to acquisition entrepreneurship
[05:06] – From property construction to healthcare acquisitions
[07:05] – Challenges faced in initial acquisition attempts
[14:12] – Pivoting sectors: Why Cal chose physiotherapy
[16:25] – Innovative healthcare model combining private practice with NHS partnerships
[19:17] – Benefits of starting with a smaller initial acquisition
[23:29] – Navigating initial acquisition challenges and key lessons learned
[27:55] – Search tactics: Brokers, LinkedIn, and direct outreach
[30:08] – Future strategy: Consulting-for-equity and scaling acquisitions
[32:52] – Personal growth goals and helping stressed business owners
[35:09] – Final thoughts and advice for new acquisition entrepreneurs
Join the conversation on acquisitions! Share your thoughts on this episode, and let us know your experience and challenges with SMB acquisitions. Don’t forget to subscribe and rate the podcast. it helps us reach more acquisition entrepreneurs!
Useful Links & Resources:
Connect with Cal Shelton on LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/calshelton
Check out Precision MSK Health
https://precisionmsk.health/
Join the BizCrunch Acquisition Community
https://www.bizcrunch.co/community
Throughout the discussion, Cal openly recounts the challenges, pitfalls, and lessons he encountered, including crucial insights about seller dynamics, effective communication, and cash flow management. He also outlines his unique approach to growth by employing a "consulting-for-equity" model, helping businesses become sale-ready while building strategic equity positions.
Whether you're a first-time acquisition entrepreneur or a seasoned business operator, this episode offers actionable insights, honest reflections, and a practical roadmap to navigate your first business purchase successfully and strategically scale your venture.
⏰ Timestamped Episode Breakdown:
[00:00] – Introduction and background to Cal Shelton
[02:17] – Cal’s journey from insolvency practice to acquisition entrepreneurship
[05:06] – From property construction to healthcare acquisitions
[07:05] – Challenges faced in initial acquisition attempts
[14:12] – Pivoting sectors: Why Cal chose physiotherapy
[16:25] – Innovative healthcare model combining private practice with NHS partnerships
[19:17] – Benefits of starting with a smaller initial acquisition
[23:29] – Navigating initial acquisition challenges and key lessons learned
[27:55] – Search tactics: Brokers, LinkedIn, and direct outreach
[30:08] – Future strategy: Consulting-for-equity and scaling acquisitions
[32:52] – Personal growth goals and helping stressed business owners
[35:09] – Final thoughts and advice for new acquisition entrepreneurs
Join the conversation on acquisitions! Share your thoughts on this episode, and let us know your experience and challenges with SMB acquisitions. Don’t forget to subscribe and rate the podcast. it helps us reach more acquisition entrepreneurs!
Useful Links & Resources:
Connect with Cal Shelton on LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/calshelton
Check out Precision MSK Health
https://precisionmsk.health/
Join the BizCrunch Acquisition Community
https://www.bizcrunch.co/community