# Episode 93: 5 Costly Tech M&A Myths That Kill Founder Value (And How to Avoid Them)

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-tech-m-a-podcast-688826/episode-93-5-costly-tech-m-a-myths-that-kill-founder-value-and-how-to-avoid-them
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-tech-m-a-podcast-688826/episode-93-5-costly-tech-m-a-myths-that-kill-founder-value-and-how-to-avoid-them.md
Podcast: [The Tech M&A Podcast](https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-tech-m-a-podcast-688826)
Published: 2026-03-18T23:39:00+00:00
Episode link: https://corumgroup.libsyn.com/5-costly-tech-ma-myths-that-kill-founder-value-and-how-to-avoid-them
Audio file: https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/corumgroup/TMAM_Podcast_MAR_2026_CEOS_DESK.mp3?dest-id=102536
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Duration seconds: 217

## Resource

After 40 years advising technology founders on mergers and acquisitions, one thing is clear: old myths about selling a tech company refuse to die—and they cost founders millions . In this video, a veteran tech M&A advisor breaks down five dangerous myths that still derail otherwise great exits. From the belief that "companies are bought, not sold," to the risks of amateur buyer outreach and flawed bid timelines, this discussion explains why preparation, process, and professional execution matter more than ever . If you're a tech founder, CEO, or shareholder thinking about an exit, recapitalization, or strategic sale, this video explains how to avoid undervaluation, missed markets, and broken deal dynamics —and how to position your company for the best price, structure, and outcome . Takeaways Companies are sold, not magically bought —waiting rarely produces premium outcomes "Soft" signals to buyers don't work; credible market engagement does Serial buyer outreach weakens leverage— competitive tension drives valuation Rigid bid timelines often backfire in today's regulatory environment Amateur outreach burns bridges and reduces optionality The best exits are driven by experienced deal professionals , not luck Optimal outcomes require focus on price, structure, tax efficiency, liabilities, and post‑deal terms Chapters 00:18 – Myth #1: Companies Are Bought, Not Sold 00:43 – Myth #2: Soft Overtures to Buyers Work 01:02 – Myth #3: The Serial Buyer Approach 01:22 – Myth #4: Beware of Bid Timelines 01:47 – Myth #5: Amateur Buyer 02:15 – What Actually Drives Optimal Exit Outcomes

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## Transcript

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