Gaule's Question Time

This interview between Andrew Gaule (linkedin.com/in/andrew-gaule-aimava) of Aimava and Richard Kestenbaum (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rkestenbaum/) of Triangle Capital covers insights on preparing startups for successful exits and liquidity events through M&A. They discuss how founders should focus on building profitable, high-growth businesses ready for acquisition, rather than purely pursuing valuation and fundraising. Kestenbaum emphasizes focusing on the fundamentals of running a strong business. They also explore the potential impacts of AI on industries like retail, predicting it will enable new business models we can't yet envision. Kestenbaum shares his perspective on navigating innovation in retail, noting cultural resistance and the challenges of implementing new technologies. Overall, he provides valuable advice for startups on positioning themselves for successful acquisitions by focusing on sustainable, long-term fundamentals rather than short-term goals. See Key Topics below. For a book on