In this episode of Amplified CEO, Richard Stroupe sits down with Tully Ryan, CEO of IQExit and Managing Director at Murphy Business, as well as a contributor to the Wilmington Business Journal.
Tully shares his journey from launching a tech company during the dot-com era to advising founder-led businesses on growth, transition planning, and successful exits in today’s evolving M&A market.
The conversation explores AI’s impact on business operations, acquisition entrepreneurship, private equity trends, and the coming “Silver Tsunami” of business owners preparing to transition or sell their companies over the next decade.
Richard and Tully also discuss why so many deals fail before closing — from unrealistic valuations and customer concentration to poor succession planning and lack of diligence readiness — and why business owners should begin preparing years before they intend to exit.
For founders, operators, advisors, and entrepreneurs interested in business growth, acquisitions, or exit strategy, this episode offers a practical look at what creates long-term enterprise value and successful transitions.
Connect with Tully Ryan:
• IQExit: https://www.iqexit.com/
• Murphy Business / Carolina Business Broker: https://carolinabusinessbroker.com/
• Wilmington Business Journal: https://www.wilmingtonbiz.com/insights/tullyryan/318
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tully-ryan-93137268/
• Co-Produced by Topsail Insider and Cape Fear Ventures
• Edited by Coastal Carolina Network
• To learn more about Amplified CEO, visit http://www.topsailinsider.com/aceo
• To learn more about Topsail Insider, visit https://www.topsailinsider.com
To learn more about Richard Stroupe, or Cape Fear Ventures, please contact Christa at (910) 800-0111 or christa@topsailinsider.com.
