OnlyFounders
What really happens when two founders hit record?
Welcome to OnlyFounders, the unfiltered podcast where Anne Gillaspie and Matt Lo—two wildly different founders with wildly good chemistry—let you eavesdrop on the conversations that usually happen behind closed doors.
From the brand therapist brain of Anne (Fix & Form) to the tech-obsessed mind of Matt (ChipBot), these are the deep dives, off-the-rails riffs, and philosophical rabbit holes that business owners crave but rarely get. Think of it as your morning coffee with two founders who aren’t afraid to disagree, throw a little shade, and get real about the humanity and science of building things that last.
Business. Branding. Technology. Psychology. Strategy. Swearing. It’s all on the table.
Grab your mug. You’re invited.
OnlyFounders
020: Before the Exit: Branding, Valuation, and the Hidden Runway
Anne checks in from rainy Times Square with stories of DIY travel hacks and pitching her new workshop to New York business owners. Along the way, she and Matt get into what it really takes to prepare a business for acquisition — from valuations and tax strategies to branding, systems, and the human side of customer transitions.
What starts as a conversation about packing Ziploc bags quickly turns into a candid look at exits gone right, exits gone wrong, and why most founders underestimate the time, planning, and mindset shifts required to walk away on their terms.
🚨 Stuff You'll Want to Remember:
- “Exit planning isn’t just for retirement — it’s part of your strategy even when you’re young.” — Anne
- “Most business owners don’t realize an exit can take five to seven years of prep.” — Anne
- “Golden handcuffs usually mean the founder coasts until the contract runs out.” — Matt
- “An acquisition without strong brand handoff is just a fast way to lose loyal customers.” — Anne
- “Consulting businesses often sell with strings attached — you’re really selling yourself for a few years.” — Matt
📡 Where to Find Us
- Anne → Fix & Form - LinkedIn
- Matt → ChipBot - LinkedIn