1651 - Business Is A Video Game with Can't Wait To Retire's Jessica Dragan

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Owner of Corporate Wellness & Retention, Jessica Dragan. Jessica's journey into business transition investment was a complex one. After leaving the military, she accidentally fell into business ownership. She built and grew her own business, but eventually, she disliked it and wanted to sell. However, the pandemic allowed her to pivot and explore new ventures.One of these ventures was managing a mini golf course, an experience that led her to discover her passion for mergers and acquisitions. Jessica explained that her business ownership background and ability to evaluate and fix businesses naturally led her to this field.Jessica shared her experience of hating her business due to the constant focus on the company, lack of work-life balance, and challenges managing a large staff. She emphasized the importance of having a balance and enjoying the work you do.When asked for advice on processing these feelings and making a change, Jessica suggested a solution for business owners who want to sell but still want to be involved in the company. They can stay in the company and choose the role they enjoy while Jessica and her investors take over the business operations. This can be an excellent option for those who don't want to exit their business altogether. Key Points from the Episode:Discussion on the value of veterans in the business worldJessica's military experience and how it influenced her approach to businessJessica's role as a business transition investor and her journey into this fieldJessica's experience of building and selling her own businessThe impact of the pandemic on Jessica's career and her pivot into mergers and acquisitionsJessica's reflections on the challenges of business ownership and the importance of work-life balance<br/> About Jessica Dragan:Jessica Dragan is a highly experienced and successful business consultant with a background as a veteran of the United States Army. In 2004, she entered the world of business ownership, where she has thrived ever since. Specializing in due diligence services, Jessica assists companies in various stages of their entrepreneurial journey. She excels in business transitions for retiring individuals, those facing life changes like illness or divorce, or anyone seeking a fresh start.With her no-nonsense attitude, Jessica is dedicated to helping her clients increase revenue and reduce fixed costs, making her an invaluable partner to any business owner. Her adaptability and quick thinking have proven beneficial in diverse situations, from turning around struggling mini-golf courses to guiding clients through complex business transitions.Having undergone extensive training in mergers and acquisitions, Jessica has cultivated a valuable network of investors and collaboration opportunities. She values strong relationships and constantly seeks ways to build and maintain connections with clients and partners. Jessica's unwavering belief in the potential of every business drives her passion for helping them achieve their full capabilities. With her military background and ability to tackle challenges head-on, she is exceptionally equipped to take businesses to new heights. About Corporate Wellness & Retention:Corporate Wellness and Retention services provide on-site chair massage therapy for businesses, private events, conventions, factories, and meetings. The company is owned and operated by a service-disabled woman with 17 years of experience in massage