Episode 00: Deal Diaries Episode Zero
Introduction to the podcast's purpose, Indra’s personal journey, and the vision behind Deal Diaries.
Host: Indra
Duration: ~60 minutes
Host: Indra
Duration: ~60 minutes
Main Purpose of the Podcast
- To learn about M&A (Mergers and Acquisitions) through honest, long-form conversations.
- To build a network of like-minded people interested in small-to-mid-sized business acquisitions (under €30M).
- To create a community of European entrepreneurs and professionals who want to buy or sell businesses, structure deals, and share experiences.
- To document a personal journey from zero experience in M&A to making real acquisitions.
About the Host – Indra
- Estonian entrepreneur with 10+ years of experience running micro-businesses and a LinkedIn-focused agency.
- Former host of a successful Estonian-language entrepreneurship podcast (nearly 100 episodes).
- Self-described as strong in starting things and big-picture strategy but weak in finances and operations.
- Inspired by Cody Sanchez and the Acquiring Minds podcast by Will Smith (US-focused) to explore acquisition entrepreneurship.
What Sparked the Podcast
- In September 2024, Indra discovered that you don’t always need your own money to buy businesses—deal structures can include seller financing, bank loans, and investor capital.
- Joined a mastermind group with friends and professionals in banking, forming small teams to explore deals together.
- Realized that teamwork and complementary skillsets are key in successful acquisitions.
- Saw the gap in Europe: few resources and communities for small-to-mid-sized M&A like in the US.
Key Messages & Themes
- Self-learning is the core goal—this podcast is Indra’s learning vehicle.
- M&A is accessible to more people than typically assumed, even without a financial background.
- Team-based acquisition is often more viable than solo ventures.
- Transparency and sharing real numbers and deal structures will be central (if guests are open to it).
- Target regions: Baltics, Nordics, Eastern Europe, Germany, and other parts of Europe.
- The show will also feature experts: financial advisors, lawyers, business brokers, and operators who have done real deals.
Foundations Being Built
- Teams are forming to pursue real deals (example: targeting a €10M revenue company).
- Actively working on investor pitch decks and preparing for real acquisitions.
- Host plans to document the full journey—first deal, growth strategies, setbacks, and wins.
Community Call
Looking for people across Europe with experience or interest in M&A:
- Entrepreneurs, ex-C-level operators, bankers, investors, lawyers, brokers.
- People who want to collaborate, join a deal team, sell a business, or learn.
The goal is to build a trusted, cross-border community where knowledge and opportunities flow freely.
Final Thoughts
- This podcast is not investment advice, but an open journey of exploration.
- Indra will share real progress and learnings.
- All feedback and participation is welcome, especially through LinkedIn™, where he is most active.
- The long-term dream is to do a deal, grow it, and maybe teach others in 5 years through classes or a broader platform.