04: How Shawn Freeman Scaled an MSP to $5M and Exited at 1.4x Revenue

Shawn Freeman, founder of a successful managed service provider (MSP), joins Bruce Eckfeldt to share his journey from launching a tech side hustle to scaling a $5M business and executing a 1.4x revenue exit. He reflects on key inflection points in leadership, recurring revenue strategy, and the emotional and operational complexities of being acquired. Shawn’s insights are essential for founder-CEOs preparing for strategic exits.

Key Takeaways

• Recurring revenue is essential for building valuation and predictable growth.
  
• Exit readiness includes tax planning and proper corporate structure from day one.
  
• Leadership means getting out of your own way and empowering others.
  
• Always assume key employees may leave—design systems that don’t rely on them.
  
• Company culture must be intentional, with clear values and psychological safety.
  
• Be cautious of acquirers unwilling to adapt or integrate new ideas.
  
• Involve your leadership team early in potential exit conversations.
• A premium service model requires aligned pricing and long-term thinking.

Links & Resources

• Shawn Freeman

  https://leaderstechacademy.com/
  https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnfreeman-/

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