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The Deal Scout
Explore the Art of Deal-Making with The Deal Scout Podcast
Are you intrigued by the world of investment, business acquisitions, or commercial real estate? "The Deal Scout" is your go-to podcast for an insider's view into the high-stakes realm of deal-making. Join our host, Susan, a seasoned entrepreneur and investor with over two decades of experience in crafting impactful deals across various sectors.
Each episode of "The Deal Scout" offers you a front-row seat to in-depth interviews with seasoned dealmakers. Learn from their successes, understand their approaches, and avoid common pitfalls they've encountered. Our conversations aren't just theoretical; they're practical insights from those actively shaping the industry.
Whether you're an aspiring investor, an entrepreneur seeking to expand, or simply curious about the mechanics of high-level deal-making, this podcast is your guide. We cover a spectrum of topics, including venture capital, private equity, real estate investments, startup dynamics, and even emerging trends like real estate NFTs and SPACs.
What sets "The Deal Scout" apart? It's our commitment to authenticity and practical wisdom. Susan's extensive network and experience, combined with his engaging interview style, ensure that each episode is not just informative but also relatable.
Key Topics We Dive Into:
- Venture Capital and Private Equity: Myths and Realities.
- Angel Investors vs. Venture Capitalists: Understanding the Differences.
- Strategies for Commercial Real Estate Investing
- The Dos and Don'ts of Startup Investment: Lessons from the Field.
- Understanding and Navigating Hedge Fund Investments: A Beginner's Guide.
- Crowdfunding: When and How to Use It Effectively.
- The Intricacies of Acquisitions and Selling Businesses: A Closer Look.
- Initial Public Offerings (IPOs): The Journey from Private to Public.
- SPACs (Special Purpose Acquisition Companies): The New Wave of Investment.
https://www.thedealscout.com/
The Deal Scout
Showing Up, Standing Out: Carl Gould’s Journey from Landscaping to Business Leadership
In this episode of The Deal Scout, host Susan Reilly sits down with Carl Gould, founder of 7 Stage Advisors, whose entrepreneurial journey started at just 18 years old with a landscaping business—and a broken leg. From humble beginnings to mentoring over 5,000 businesses worldwide, Carl’s story is packed with unexpected lessons, strategic pivots, and game-changing insights.
Carl shares the early moments that shaped his success, including a pivotal realization that simply showing up gave him a competitive edge. He dives into the importance of business planning, how most companies—even million-dollar enterprises—operate without one, and why differentiation is essential for long-term growth. With his signature guarantee model, Carl turned industry standards on their head and charged a 35% premium, out-hustling competitors with clean proposals, fast turnarounds, and relentless consistency.
Susan and Carl discuss the origin of his entrepreneurial drive, rooted in a family legacy of self-starters, including his mother’s pioneering efforts in network marketing. Carl also opens up about relationship missteps in business, the cyclical nature of professional networks, and how he ultimately built a consultancy designed not just to advise, but to execute side-by-side with clients.
Discover why most businesses grow in 18-month cycles, how 7 Stage Advisors embeds with clients to drive results, and what makes a company truly investable. Plus, Carl shares personal passions—from his love of live events and outdoor adventures to a family tradition of annual polar plunges.
If you're a dealmaker looking to invest in or grow a business—or simply want to learn from someone who has helped thousands do just that—this episode is a masterclass in strategic thinking, operational execution, and entrepreneurial grit.
Tune in to learn how showing up, asking the right questions, and having a clear plan can take your business to the next level.
Reach out to connect with Bryan or to be a guest on the show to Susan
Next Steps
- Share your thoughts with a review - https://www.thedealscout.com/reviews/
- Let's connect on LinkedIn -
https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-reilly-64150722a/ - Subscribe and Watch on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBQN_Y3nhDGClfMxCSBDjOg
Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as financial, legal, or tax advice. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host, Susan Reilly, and any guests, and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency or organization.
Susan Reilly is a licensed real estate broker, but this podcast is not a substitute for professional advice. We strongly recommend that you consult with a qualified financial advisor, legal counsel, and tax professional before making any financial decisions or taking any actions based on the information provided in this podcast.
