My $70M Exit Collapsed Days Before Signing

2025-05-13

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127 founders (net worth: ~$1M–$100M+) opened up their personal books. Want to see how your finances stack up? https://www.joinhampton.com/wealth-reportAdam Robinson was days away from a $70M exit… then the buyer walked. But the deal collapsing turned out to be a blessing.Here’s what we talk about:His current company now does $25M ARR with $1M monthly profit.He accidentally spent millions before the deal closed on land, crypto, and a new mortgage.Then came a surprise 60% tax bill, thanks to a little-known IRS rule....

127 founders (net worth: ~$1M–$100M+) opened up their personal books. Want to see how your finances stack up? https://www.joinhampton.com/wealth-report

Adam Robinson was days away from a $70M exit… then the buyer walked. But the deal collapsing turned out to be a blessing.

Here’s what we talk about:

His current company now does $25M ARR with $1M monthly profit.
He accidentally spent millions before the deal closed on land, crypto, and a new mortgage.
Then came a surprise 60% tax bill, thanks to a little-known IRS rule.
Adam explains why high income doesn’t equal peace of mind.
He shares how Wall Street shaped his risky money habits.
His spending: $750K/year, two kids, boat, Aspen trips, wellness lifestyle.
He admits he wasn’t ready for a big exit and still might not be.
Now, he’s focused on structure, restraint, and building wealth slowly.
And why cash flow feels better than a windfall… at least when you’re winning.

Cool Links:

Hampton https://www.joinhampton.com/
Lower Street https://www.lowerstreet.co/

Chapters:
(00:00) The Big Exit That Never Happened
(00:54) Adam's Financial Resilience
(02:25) From Wall Street to Startups
(06:59) The Startup Struggles
(10:31) The Almost Sale and Its Aftermath
(12:35) Crypto Craze and Financial Lessons
(15:13) Rebounding and Learning from Mistakes
(19:21) The Genius Trade of the Century
(22:38) Financial Anxiety and Business Risks
(25:26) Tax Surprises and Financial Planning
(29:27) Spending Habits and Lifestyle Choices
(36:28) Balancing Wealth Building and Lifestyle
(37:14) Conclusion: The Exit That Wasn't

This podcast is a ridiculous concept: high-net-worth people reveal their personal finances. Inspired by real conversations happening in the Hampton community.

Your Host: Harry Morton