She Sold Her Niched Law Firm To The First Choice On Her List
In this episode of The Art of Succession podcast, host Barrett Young interviews Jillian Sidoti, founder of Crowdfunding Lawyers and creator of Last Life Ever. The discussion focuses on Jillian’s journey of building a niche law firm, selling it for seven figures, and how systems and branding can lead to successful business transitions.
Building and Scaling a Niche Business
Jillian shares her story of founding her law firm at her kitchen table in 2007. By networking extensively, she grew the practice to a multi-million-dollar operation specializing in crowdfunding and securities law. Her journey into specialization began with a securities fraud case, which led her to develop expertise in raising capital legally. Jillian emphasizes that narrowing her focus allowed her to build a standout brand, Crowdfunding Lawyers, which resonated strongly with her target audience.
Preparing to Sell: Systems, Branding, and Emotional Readiness
Jillian highlights that having robust systems and a transferable brand name were critical in selling her firm. She advises against naming businesses after the founder, as it complicates succession. Instead, descriptive and "sticky" brand names enhance sellability. Jillian also notes the importance of systematizing operations, from client management to marketing, which adds intrinsic value for potential buyers. Emotionally, she faced challenges in stepping back but found clarity in prioritizing her family's and employees' futures.
Creating a Legacy Beyond Business
Post-sale, Jillian focused on empowering others through her platform, Last Life Ever, where she helps individuals live their best lives. She underscores that financial freedom and solid systems in business provide the foundation for pursuing personal passions. Jillian’s story exemplifies how careful planning, both structurally and emotionally, enables entrepreneurs to transition successfully and create lasting impacts.
🎙️Full show notes, guest information, and video version of this episode available at https://gwcpas.com/blog/aos-jillian-sidoti
✍️ Leave feedback for the show. I’d love to hear your input https://quark-fir-a64.notion.site/1d9dd04222f380ae96c9caae27bc1c66?pvs=105
The Art of Succession Podcast is brought to you by GWCPA. Twice a month on https://www.youtube.com/@gwcpas, CPA and Partner Barrett Young explores the emotional and strategic challenges of leadership transition, offering honest insights and actionable advice for successors and founders.
If you've enjoyed this episode, please share it with others. It truly helps.
Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or accounting advice. You should consult your own advisors before making decisions related to your situation. If you don’t have an advisor yet, reach out!
Building and Scaling a Niche Business
Jillian shares her story of founding her law firm at her kitchen table in 2007. By networking extensively, she grew the practice to a multi-million-dollar operation specializing in crowdfunding and securities law. Her journey into specialization began with a securities fraud case, which led her to develop expertise in raising capital legally. Jillian emphasizes that narrowing her focus allowed her to build a standout brand, Crowdfunding Lawyers, which resonated strongly with her target audience.
Preparing to Sell: Systems, Branding, and Emotional Readiness
Jillian highlights that having robust systems and a transferable brand name were critical in selling her firm. She advises against naming businesses after the founder, as it complicates succession. Instead, descriptive and "sticky" brand names enhance sellability. Jillian also notes the importance of systematizing operations, from client management to marketing, which adds intrinsic value for potential buyers. Emotionally, she faced challenges in stepping back but found clarity in prioritizing her family's and employees' futures.
Creating a Legacy Beyond Business
Post-sale, Jillian focused on empowering others through her platform, Last Life Ever, where she helps individuals live their best lives. She underscores that financial freedom and solid systems in business provide the foundation for pursuing personal passions. Jillian’s story exemplifies how careful planning, both structurally and emotionally, enables entrepreneurs to transition successfully and create lasting impacts.
🎙️Full show notes, guest information, and video version of this episode available at https://gwcpas.com/blog/aos-jillian-sidoti
✍️ Leave feedback for the show. I’d love to hear your input https://quark-fir-a64.notion.site/1d9dd04222f380ae96c9caae27bc1c66?pvs=105
The Art of Succession Podcast is brought to you by GWCPA. Twice a month on https://www.youtube.com/@gwcpas, CPA and Partner Barrett Young explores the emotional and strategic challenges of leadership transition, offering honest insights and actionable advice for successors and founders.
If you've enjoyed this episode, please share it with others. It truly helps.
Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or accounting advice. You should consult your own advisors before making decisions related to your situation. If you don’t have an advisor yet, reach out!
