Episode 144 - What Investors Really Look For w/Mario Montag - The Acquisition Chronicles Series

Most searchers focus on finding the perfect business to buy—but what happens after the deal closes? In this episode, Monique Mills sits down with investor and experienced entrepreneur Mario Montag to discuss what really drives post-acquisition success. Spoiler: it’s not just adding new tech and CRMs.

Mario shares what he looks for in searchers before investing, why operational execution is the #1 factor in long-term success, and the importance of EOS (from the book Traction). He also reveals the biggest mistakes searchers make, why keeping customers is the most critical post-close task, and why the ETA space needs more honest conversations about its challenges.

If you’re thinking about acquiring a business or investing in one, don’t miss this conversation!

Key Topics:

• The investor mindset in ETA
• Key operational improvements that drive value
• How to assess risk and avoid hidden pitfalls in acquisitions
• Why seller notes and earnouts are essential protections
• Lessons from failed deals
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📌 Mentioned in this episode:

🔗 The Book Traction (EOS Framework): https://www.eosworldwide.com/traction-book

Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com

Follow Mario Montag

🔗 Mario Montag’s Website:https://mariomontag.com

🔗 Mario Montag on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariomontag/

🔗 Fruition Capital:https://fruitioncap.com

Follow Monique Mills

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/

Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/

TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/

Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com