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.
Listeners can learn more about Jillian Sidoti by visiting her platform Last Life Ever, and accessing her free goal-setting course, Project 2025.
__________________
The Art of Succession Podcast is brought to you by GWCPA. Twice a month on Youtube, host Barrett Young will bring you interviews sharing the successes and challenges from business owners with their own succession stories. If you've enjoyed this episode, please share it with others.
🎙️ Become a Guest https://bit.ly/AOSBeAGuest
✍️ Leave your feedback for the show: Google Forms
📡 Also distributed on
Transistor.fm https://artofsuccession.transistor.fm/
📧 Prefer to get the Art of Succession in your inbox? Subscribe to the mailing list to be notified of new episodes: https://mailchi.mp/566bff6410fc/aos-podcast-rss
🖥️ Find out more about the show at https://gwcpas.com/podcast
Disclaimer: This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. You should consult your own tax, legal, and accounting advisors before engaging in any transaction.
