Strategy 4 Saturday Blog (<4 minute read)
(Picture: The Exiter Club)
There’s No Place Like Nashville
This past week, I had the opportunity to travel to one of my favorite cities — Nashville, Tennessee — to attend The Exiter Club, hosted by The Real Jason Duncan. It was an experience that blended business strategy, authentic connection, and Southern hospitality in all the best ways.
For the first 36 hours, I served as the finance coach alongside an incredibly talented team led by Jason. Together, we helped frame the financial foundation that entrepreneurs need to scale, and eventually exit, their businesses with confidence. The sessions were sharp, focused, and packed with insight. But as valuable as the content was, the human connection was even better.
(Image: The Standard, Nashville)
On Another Level
Then, the next 36 hours took things to another level.
Over 25 entrepreneurs joined us for an immersive mastermind experience. From high-value presentations to authentic roundtable conversations, the energy was electric. I had the opportunity to speak on one of my favorite topics: critical KPIs that drive business valuation. As I shared strategies to improve cash flow, reduce risk, and increase valuation multiples, the engagement from the room reminded me how hungry entrepreneurs are to take control of their financial future.
One of the standout moments was our evening at the The Standard — tucked inside the oldest building in downtown Nashville. The setting was stunning, the food was exceptional, and the conversation was even better. There’s something about a relaxed environment that encourages the kinds of candid conversations we don’t always get on Zoom.
(Image: The Tin Roof, Nashville)
Speaking of special moments — it was a highlight to see Erin Gibney perform as the headline band on Broadway. Erin recently hit the radio charts with her first single, Wasted Potential, and watching her perform live in her hometown at Tin Roof Broadway was an unforgettable experience. Her journey as a rising artist reminded me of the entrepreneurial grind — persistence, passion, and a clear vision.
Perhaps the biggest takeaway from the week: there’s no substitute for being in the room. Yes, virtual tools help us stay connected. But sitting across the table, shaking hands, and sharing meals creates a level of trust and collaboration that simply can’t be replicated digitally.
At 40 Strategy, we’ve always believed that in-person strategy sessions — when possible — unlock a deeper level of clarity and commitment. It’s not just the session content that drives value, but the side conversations, spontaneous insights, and shared laughter that happen before and after the agenda ends.
Also, it was great to connect with Ryan Englin from Core Matters, whose approach to building strong hiring systems aligns well with how we think about organizational health and long-term success.
All in all, Nashville delivered again. Grateful for the relationships deepened and the new connections made. We’re just getting started — and the future looks bright!
