How can you maximize the value of your business through mergers, acquisitions, and the “second bite” opportunity? Most agency owners today are seeking an opportunity to cash out some equity while continuing to play an active role in scaling their business.
In this episode of The Agency Blueprint podcast, I’m joined by Todd Taskey to discuss how deals are structured, why private equity loves specialized agencies, and how “the second bite” often ends up being larger than the first payday. Todd is a seasoned M&A advisor and investment banker who has spent over two decades guiding agency founders through lucrative exits and growth-focused partnerships.
Listen in to learn how smaller agencies can attract the right buyers with specialization, strong client retention, and scalable sales systems. You will also learn how AI is reshaping agency margins and valuations, eliminating low-level tasks, and allowing agencies to scale profitably.
Key Questions:
- [01:12] What exactly is the second bite, and how can agency owners benefit from it beyond their first sale?
- [03:45] What types of deals are most common for agencies today—strategic, private equity, or conglomerate roll-ups?
- [08:25] Which types of agencies are most attractive to private equity firms right now, and which ones are struggling?
- [15:16] How is AI changing agency valuations? Is it just hype, or does it create lasting value?
- [23:07] What areas should agency owners strengthen in the next 2–3 years to maximize valuation?
What You’ll Discover:
- [01:30] Todd explains the concept of the second bite, where selling equity today can lead to a bigger payday in the future.
- [04:15] The difference between selling to large holding companies versus partnering with private equity-backed strategic buyers.
- [06:59] Why many agency founders end up enjoying their businesses more after a partial sale.
- [08:50] The verticals private equity firms are most eager to acquire, and why niche specialization wins.
- [11:38] How agencies are using vertical focus to create irresistible acquisition stories.
- [15:40] How AI is reshaping agency operations, cutting costs, and boosting margins without replacing strategic thinking.
- [19:46] How agency owners should weigh the choice between pursuing higher margins or lowering prices to gain market share.
- [23:34] The three pillars of maximizing agency value: strong sales, high retention, and healthy margins.
- [26:13] Todd warns against assuming you can hire a CEO and exit cleanly—buyers see that as a red flag.
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