Focus on What You Find: Lessons from Murphy Business’ CEO - Veronica Cardinale-Ellinger - Steel City Growth - Episode #21
Focusing on What You Find: Building Culture and Integrity in Business Brokerage
Today’s guest is Veronica Cardinale-Ellinger, CEO of Murphy Business and Financial Corporation, who brings over 20 years of leadership experience across operations, sales, and executive management. Veronica shares her philosophy of focus and culture, explains why business valuation and preparation are crucial, and highlights how Murphy Business differentiates itself through integrity, collaboration, and client-first service.
Today’s guest is Veronica Cardinale-Ellinger, CEO of Murphy Business and Financial Corporation, who brings over 20 years of leadership experience across operations, sales, and executive management. Veronica shares her philosophy of focus and culture, explains why business valuation and preparation are crucial, and highlights how Murphy Business differentiates itself through integrity, collaboration, and client-first service.
Takeaways:
- Start Preparing Early: Contact a business broker at least five years before selling to clean up financials, build systems, and maximize value.
- Culture is Everything: Buyers look beyond numbers—they invest in leadership, culture, and legacy.
- Valuation Matters: Most owners over- or undervalue their businesses. A professional valuation provides clarity and realistic expectations.
- Confidentiality & Integrity: The best brokers are trusted advisors who protect client confidentiality and provide honest feedback.
- Work on the Business, Not in the Business: Build systems and teams so the company thrives without the owner’s day-to-day involvement.
- Focus Creates Growth: What you focus on, you find—directing energy toward the right goals drives success.
- Franchise Opportunity: Murphy Business is expanding strategically, offering training, mentorship, and a supportive culture for brokers.
Quote of the Show:
“Growth isn’t about doing everything—it’s about doing the right things really, really well.” – Veronica Cardinale-Ellinger
What problem can the listeners help you solve?
- Veronica is looking to connect with motivated professionals interested in becoming franchisees or business brokers, as well as business owners who want guidance on preparing for an eventual exit.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Steel City Growth
02:19 Culture: The Heart of Business Success
04:07 Understanding the Role of a Business Broker
05:35 Emotional Aspects of Selling a Business
08:26 Navigating Economic Challenges in Business Transactions
09:19 Common Mistakes in Business Valuation
11:13 Preparing Your Business for Sale
12:26 The Importance of Early Broker Engagement
13:22 Balancing Numbers and People in Business Transactions
14:44 Advice for Entrepreneurs Preparing for Exit
16:04 Integrity in Business Brokerage
18:25 Personal Journey and Leadership in Business
21:40 Future Vision for Murphy Business
23:33 Training and Support for New Brokers
26:46 Skills for Successful Brokers
28:01 Marketing Innovations at Murphy
30:09 Cultivating a Strong Company Culture
31:40 Advice for New Entrepreneurs
33:07 Personal Interests and Work-Life Balance
33:59 Closing Thoughts and Contact Information
Links:
00:00 Introduction to Steel City Growth
02:19 Culture: The Heart of Business Success
04:07 Understanding the Role of a Business Broker
05:35 Emotional Aspects of Selling a Business
08:26 Navigating Economic Challenges in Business Transactions
09:19 Common Mistakes in Business Valuation
11:13 Preparing Your Business for Sale
12:26 The Importance of Early Broker Engagement
13:22 Balancing Numbers and People in Business Transactions
14:44 Advice for Entrepreneurs Preparing for Exit
16:04 Integrity in Business Brokerage
18:25 Personal Journey and Leadership in Business
21:40 Future Vision for Murphy Business
23:33 Training and Support for New Brokers
26:46 Skills for Successful Brokers
28:01 Marketing Innovations at Murphy
30:09 Cultivating a Strong Company Culture
31:40 Advice for New Entrepreneurs
33:07 Personal Interests and Work-Life Balance
33:59 Closing Thoughts and Contact Information
Links:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronicaellingerleadership/
- Website: https://murphybusiness.com/
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