Karl Taft

Ryan T. Mortensen’s career in sales is a journey marked by passion, determination, and the drive to succeed—a drive as powerful as the exotic cars he’s expertly navigated through the marketplace. His early foray into entrepreneurship, famously selling cupcakes as a child, was merely a prelude to a career characterized by innovation and a keen eye for opportunity. Transitioning into the high-octane world of exotic car sales, Ryan applied his natural salesmanship and unparalleled negotiation skills to match discerning clients with their dream machines. This experience honed his ability to understand and meet the unique needs of an elite clientele, setting the stage for his role at Transworld Business Advisors. Here, Ryan combines his luxury sales background with a deep-rooted desire to guide and support business owners through significant transitions. Leveraging his comprehensive understanding of high-value negotiations and client service, Ryan has become a driving force for success at Transworld, steering clients towards their business goals with the same precision, care, and enthusiasm he brought to the world of exotic cars.

Karl Taft is business broker with Transworld Business Advisors of Dallas / Fort Worth Central, 20+ year entrepreneur, and thrives on assisting owners and entrepreneurs in realizing their aspirations and accomplishing remarkable feats. He has a MS in Chemistry and MBA. Karl (aka “K”) is a “hands-on operations guy” with a passion for creating/scaling products and helping other business owners. For over 20 years, he has started and built businesses in a variety of industries including alternative energy, transportation, aerospace manufacturing, specialty chemicals, and construction. He has successfully exited three ventures (NASDAQ IPO and two company sales) and after two decades of starting/running his own companies enjoys helping other entrepreneurs and owners prepare and position their businesses for the market. "Every business has a story that can resonate with a buyer." Karl still actively mentors other entrepreneurs in several industries (in several countries) and gives his time to several non-profit organizations with a focus on animals and the disadvantaged in his community. K enjoys working out regularly before the sun rises and resides in Dallas with his wife of 20+ years and two sons. (214) 796-3676 ktaft@tworld.com

In September 2022, Kristina became licensed in the state of Illinois as a business broker and joined the Transworld Business Advisors of LaGrange team. Kristina's devotion to small business started almost 20 years ago when she began working for her family’s company, 200 Pharmacy Inc. at 16 as a pharmacy technician. As an adult, Kristina worked for her family’s business for 8 years. She ultimately thrived in the position of Director of Business Development. In this position, she initialized her experience in the procurement sector. First working to get her family’s business certified with the Chicago Minority Supplier Development Council and thereafter attending conferences, matching opportunities and pre-bid meetings to establish the company’s reputability and brand in the government contracting industry, specifically within healthcare systems. Kristina was successful in acquiring several small contracts with hospitals like Rush, University of Chicago, and University of Illinois and health care organizations like Advocate. In 2017 she transitioned from the family business to take on an opportunity with the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program (10KSB), where her true passion was revealed, helping small businesses grow. This is where her foundation in outreach and small business education/training was established. Kristina was brought on as the outreach Director, charged with recruiting more minority and women owned business who qualified for the program. In just one year she was promoted to Outreach and Alumni Director for the program and became responsible for supporting scholars once they graduated with general advising and connections to small business resources. After working with the Goldman Sachs program for 3 years Kristina made the decision to fully step into entrepreneurship and consulting for public and private organizations that support small businesses by offering coaching support in areas such as: MBE/WBE Certification Technical Assistance, Business Development, and Business Plan and Pitch Deck Creation. In December of 2020, Kristina was brought on as business advisor with the IL Small Business Development Center Network and in September 2021 as a business consultant for the Chicago Minority Supplier Development Council. In these roles she has created and facilitated small business workshops/trainings, organized small business networking events, and offer one-on- one business advising.

I assist business owners in the confidential sale of their business and/or growth through franchise consulting/development. Through managing the entire business brokerage process from the listing, "wide net" marketing, Best fit Buyer vetting, and legal closing. I professionally mediate the entire business transaction. Transworld Business Advisors has assisted thousands of owners with the sale or purchase of businesses in the DFW Metroplex area. Every year, 25% of businesses change ownership due to various reasons: retirement, relocation, family illness, financial challenges etc. As a business broker, I provide the following professional business services: • Company Valuation • Global Business Sales & Marketing • Global Franchise Sales & Development • Mergers & Acquisitions • Asset Sales • Financial Assessment • Strategic Partnership Alignment • SEO & Social Media Optimization • Vendor Relations & Contract Negotiations • Commercial RE

Steven leverages his first-hand experience in developing, managing and selling multiple small businesses to advise his business clients who are looking to sell or buy. He is passionate about knowing his clients’ goals and the inner workings of their businesses to assist them in various stages of the business life cycle, including exit strategies and acquisitions. His advocation for the small business sector has led to him receiving recognitions like the NFIB California Small Business Champion of the Year and having the opportunity to mentor internationally in the micro-business arena. In addition to his broker career, Steven has obtained professional aviation certificates and enjoys spending time with his family, traveling, shooting and working out at the gym.

Transworld Business Advisors of Dallas / Fort Worth Central and Central Texas are part of the Transworld Business Advisors global franchise, the largest business brokerage in the world. The Dallas / Fort Worth and Central Texas franchise locations are owned by Prospere Companies, a private investment firm with a portfolio of companies in Texas, Colorado, and Nevada. Prospere Companies specializes in acquiring, owning, and operating multi-faceted locations in the realm of mergers and acquisitions. Over the past 12 years, our team has completed 1,500+ deals, growing daily.

Transworld Business Advisors of Dallas / Fort Worth Central and Central Texas are part of the Transworld Business Advisors global franchise, the largest business brokerage in the world. The Dallas / Fort Worth and Central Texas franchise locations are owned by Prospere Companies, a private investment firm with a portfolio of companies in Texas, Colorado, and Nevada. Prospere Companies specializes in acquiring, owning, and operating multi-faceted locations in the realm of mergers and acquisitions. Over the past 12 years, our team has completed 1,500+ deals, growing daily.

Adam Pickle, is a business broker with Transworld Business Advisors of Dallas/Fort Worth Central. Adam is a native Texan, who moved to the Dallas/Fort Worth area eight years ago. In his teen years, Adam was exposed to the entrepreneurial spirit as he worked part-time in his extended family’s small business. After graduating college, Adam has been involved with businesses in the fitness and automotive industry through sales consulting, customer service, and management. Through working closely with business owners, Adam developed a profound respect and admiration for the entrepreneur. His passion is to provide the best support for business owners as they overcome challenges and reach their goals. That passion extends to his own family as Adam assists his wife with her own small business while raising their two young sons. When not advising and encouraging a client, Adam will seek out a ball game at a professional stadium, with his community softball team, or his son’s little league. He is passing on his love of music to his boys and looks forward to snowboarding with them in a few years.

I am a highly regarded business executive and advisor with over 6 years of successful experience in buying and selling businesses. I specialize in driving innovation and transformation for small and mid-sized enterprises. My background includes guiding companies through growth, successful sales, and acquisitions. Professional Experience: With a deep understanding of the business marketplace, I provide a comprehensive range of services, including business valuations, market analysis, negotiation, and transaction management. My expertise spans various industries and geographies, allowing me to deliver tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of each client. Key Skills: Strategic Marketing and Positioning Buyer and Seller Representation Negotiation and Deal Structuring Due Diligence Coordination Market Research and Analysis Approach: I am committed to delivering personalized service and building long-term relationships with my clients. My approach combines analytical rigor with a deep understanding of market trends to ensure optimal outcomes. Whether you’re looking to sell your business, acquire a new one, or explore your options, I provide the expertise and support needed to achieve your goals. Let's Connect: If you’re considering buying or selling a business and need expert guidance, feel free to reach out. I look forward to discussing how I can help you achieve your business objectives.

Transworld Business Advisors is the world leader in the marketing and sales of businesses, franchises and commercial real estate. Whether you represent an acquisition-minded corporation, or are personally interested in owning your own company, Transworld offers the professional services that successfully bring buyers and sellers together. From business brokerage to mergers and acquisitions; we are the business sale specialists. Since our inception, we have excelled in getting deals done! Contact us and you will understand what makes us the best company to handle any business or commercial real estate sale.

Scott has a long history in the financial services industries, and then starting and successfully selling his own business. Scott has experience in everything from product development and launches to managing sales teams and increasing revenue. At the center, he has always been focused on building strong relationships with clients, meeting their needs and providing solutions. Now, as a business broker with Transworld Business Advisors, Scott is using his skills in building relationships to help small business owners in the Dallas Metro area. His background in finance gives him a great understanding into the concerns business owners have when selling their business and he is able to navigate these concerns through the entire selling process, providing a level of confidence that benefits all of his clients.

While Linda has had a successful career in the hotel business, she also had her own home-based business for over ten years, hitting the top rank in her company in her first three years, where she managed a team of over 400 people. Linda has taken her wealth of experience and now applies all her knowledge to help business owners achieve their dream of selling and/or expanding their business. She has over 25 years in non-profits. She has held offices from President, Membership and Social Chair to Fundraising thus raising several million dollars for Children’s Charities and Women’s Shelters. She has served on The Grapevine and Northeast Tarrant Chambers of Commerce Boards, The Tri-Delta Alumnae Board, and Junior League of PSDC Board. She enjoys hanging out on the water, playing golf, and spending time with family and friends. Linda attended California State University, Long Beach, and received a BS in Business Administration with an emphasis in Marketing and Information Systems.

With more than 20 years of combined experience as a skilled Business Broker, I possess a unique blend of expertise that sets me apart in the industry. I have honed my abilities to identify my clients' goals and develop tailored sales solutions to effectively meet their specific needs. Prior to my career as a Business Broker, I held the position of CEO at an esteemed Investment firm based in Austin. In this role, I successfully oversaw multiple companies across diverse industries, gaining invaluable insights into various business sectors. Additionally, my extensive background in Commercial and SBA Lending has further enriched my skill set, allowing me to provide comprehensive value to my clients. Drawing upon my diverse business background, I excel in marketing and selling businesses while remaining attuned to each client's unique requirements and concerns. I am dedicated to delivering tangible results and creating memorable and rewarding experiences for both buyers and sellers. By leveraging my organizational prowess, diligence, and attention to detail, I ensure seamless transactions and client satisfaction. Adept in negotiation, I skillfully navigate the complexities of business sales to facilitate successful outcomes that exceed expectations. My ultimate goal is to support you in achieving your desired outcomes and provide exceptional service throughout the entire process. I am excited about the opportunity to work with you and replicate the same level of success and satisfaction I have achieved with my previous clients. Together, let's embark on a journey towards a successful business sale that exceeds your expectations.

Sean Goodspeed is from the small town of Marion, Texas, and is a graduate of Texas State University. He has since put down roots in San Marcos, where he lives with his wife and two children. A true family man and avid outdoorsman, Sean considers the backyard his living room. His career has spanned several industries, from outdoor recreation to the manufacturing of blood plasma therapies. After owning and operating his own business, Sean developed a deep fascination with all types of businesses—especially the process of buying and selling them. He now channels that passion into helping fellow entrepreneurs reach their goals through business acquisition and sales. RESOURCES https://www.tworld.com/locations/texas/dallasfortworthcentral/buy-a-business/ https://www.tworld.com/locations/texas/dallasfortworthcentral/sell-a-business/ https://exitfactor.com/ https://www.tworld.com/locations/texas/dallasfortworthcentral/buy-a-franchise/

Caleb Cowden is an award-winning speaker and published author in the business and M&A space, recognized for his professional excellence and thought leadership in helping entrepreneurs navigate high-stakes transitions. As a seasoned M&A Advisor and Business Broker, Caleb specializes in representing business owners and strategic buyers through complex acquisitions and exits with precision, strategy, and integrity. With a proven track record across multiple industries, he brings deep expertise in valuation, negotiation, and deal structuring—ensuring clients achieve the outcome they envision. Known for his unwavering commitment to excellence, Caleb approaches every deal with the mindset that your vision is my mission, delivering results that honor both the numbers and the legacy behind them.

Shawn graduated from Oklahoma State University with a Bachelor of Business Administration. He and his wife owned and operated 5 successful Restaurants in DFW for 11 years and then successfully exited the businesses. He then spent 7 years starting, growing and selling various B2B & B2C service businesses. Shawn joined Transworld Business Advisors in his desire to help others acquire and successfully exit their own businesses. Shawn’s extensive small business experience allows him to understand and overcome the challenges involved with successfully navigating the business buying and selling process for his clients. During his free time, he likes to hang out with his wife and two kids, 17 & 19. He also likes to relax in the Florida Keys when work allows him to escape for a few days.

Ryan Eastwood, Is a business broker with Transworld Business Advisors. Ryan has worked in and around small businesses for the past five to seven years in almost every role. Whether it was a management position, handling Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, shipping and logistics, inventory control, or driving a forklift in the warehouse, he always brings a dedication to do the job in the best way possible. Ryan never stops striving for ways to improve everyday operations. Ryan has a passion to help business owners with problems in their business because he has worked through many of those problems himself. Ryan has lived in Arlington, Texas his whole life and enjoys finding different recipes to use on his smoker with brisket being a favorite. Ryan is a sports enthusiast, he especially loves his Dallas Stars hockey. In his free time, he delights in his time spent with his wife and his daughter.

Areas Served: DFW Counties: Dallas, Collin, Tarrant, Johnson, Rockwall Austin Counties: Blanco, Hays, Travis, Caldwell, Burnet, Williamson, Bastrop, Gonzales Waco Counties: Bosque, Hill, Navarro, Henderson, Anderson, Freestone, Limestone, McLennan

Brian Martin has a BS in Business Management with a focus in Entrepreneurship and a minor in Finance from the University of North Texas. After finding corporate success as an accountant and financial analyst Brian began purchasing businesses. Having personally purchased and sold 8 businesses and after helping family and friends buy businesses, he realized he had a passion for business sales. He is now doing what he loves as a full-time business broker. Brian also continues to own an absentee restaurant in Roanoke Texas and a salon suite in Plano. He understands how business owners run their business and their books and he knows how to communicate value often overlooked by other brokers. He'd love to just chat with you about buying or selling a business. You can reach him at 214-695-1223 or at BMartin@tworld.com.

Aaron Barnes is a skilled Business Broker with Transworld Business Advisors, specializing in guiding entrepreneurs, business owners, and investors through successful business sales, mergers, and acquisitions. With a strong background in insurance, real estate, and finance, Aaron brings a multi-dimensional perspective to each transaction—ensuring clients receive expert valuation insights, strategic marketing, and confidential deal execution. Aaron’s approach is centered on transparency, trust, and results. Whether helping a business owner plan their exit strategy or matching a buyer with the right opportunity, he works tirelessly to structure deals that benefit all parties involved. He holds active licenses in real estate and insurance and brings over a decade of experience negotiating complex contracts and protecting client interests. His mission is to help small to mid-sized business owners unlock the value they’ve built and transition with confidence. Outside of work, Aaron is a dedicated family man and active member of his community, with a passion for mentorship, entrepreneurship, and long-term financial growth.

Julie Barlow is a dedicated business broker with Transworld Business Advisors of Dallas/Fort Worth Central, bringing over 20 years of combined experience in real estate, leadership, fitness and health, and small business ownership. With a passion for helping ambitious entrepreneurs achieve their dreams, Julie's background in various industries has equipped her with a unique skill set to guide clients through the complex process of buying or selling a business. With an impressive track record in the fitness, wellness, and health sectors, Julie understands firsthand the challenges and opportunities that come with owning and operating businesses in these industries. Having successfully bought and sold two franchised fitness centers and a yoga studio of her own, she has a deep understanding of the nuances involved in such transactions. Julie's expertise extends beyond the business realm, as she also possesses extensive knowledge in real estate, making her adept at navigating the intricacies of sales transactions and ensuring optimal outcomes for her clients. Julie's commitment to professionalism, strong communication skills, resourcefulness, and problem-solving abilities have earned her a reputation as a trusted advisor in the business brokerage field. She takes pride in helping people overcome obstacles and achieve their goals, consistently going above and beyond to deliver exceptional results. Julie's clients appreciate her dedication and personalized approach, as she is fully invested in their success. Born and raised in Dallas, Julie Barlow is a proud 4th generation native Texan. She has spent the majority of her life in the suburbs of Dallas, building strong connections within the local business community. Julie earned a BBA in Finance from Dallas Baptist University in 1990. When she's not assisting clients, Julie enjoys immersing herself in literature, maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular workouts, indulging in music, and cherishing quality time with her family. If you are seeking a business broker who combines extensive experience in real estate, leadership, fitness and health, and small business ownership, Julie Barlow is the trusted professional who will guide you through every step of the buying or selling process. Her unwavering dedication, industry knowledge, and commitment to client success set her apart as a valuable asset for ambitious entrepreneurs in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Specialties: Julie focuses on facilitating the buying and selling of businesses, providing expert guidance, valuation services, and strategic insights to help clients navigate the complex process and achieve successful transactions.

I am the owner of Transworld Business Advisors of Central Texas which serves the Greater Austin market. Please see our website at www.tworld.com/centraltexas. Prior to joining Transworld, I have enjoyed being a part of the business community of the Austin and San Antonio area of Texas for over thirty years. I started my career as a CPA with a national accounting firm and spent over ten years as a commercial mortgage banker. I then spent over twenty years as CFO for an international manufacturing company, a multi-state food production company and one highly successful start-up financial service business. I have managed many mergers and acquisitions with valuations exceeding hundreds of million dollars during my professional career. I am a graduate of the University of Texas with a degree in Business Administration and I am an ex CPA. I am married and the father of two sons and one daughter. I hold Series 82, 63 and SIE Securities licenses and I am a Certified M&A Professional.

I have been in the hospitality and customer service world for nearly twenty years. Growing up in the Aspen Valley, I got into snowboarding at a very young age. My love of mountain sports led me to help some friends open Radio Boardshop. I then pursued an opportunity to work in an outside sales position with Ride Snowboards, controlling the Rocky Mountain territory. After a few seasons on the road and meeting my lovely wife, we settled in Denver. Seeing a few gaps in the marketplace, we built up several small businesses, a coffee shop, restaurant, liquor store, and four non-toxic nail salons. But seven businesses and two kids later, it was time for a change. Since I can't give away the children, my wife and I sold our businesses and searched for a new career opportunity. I soon identified business brokerage as a career that could take all of the skills and small business experience I have acquired over the years and focus them into a purposeful, community resource for Colorado and Texas entrepreneurs.