14: Inside a Rapid M&A Deal: How Calvin Johnson Prepared Lykki for a Fortune 500 Exit

From washing cars as a teen to selling a business with over $290M in sales, Calvin Johnson’s entrepreneurial journey is nothing short of remarkable. In this episode, Calvin shares how he built and exited Lykki, an office supply and coffee delivery company, and the key lessons he learned around culture, technology, and timing. Founders looking to scale smart and exit well will gain real-world insights into M&A strategy, deal preparation, and post-exit purpose.

Key Takeaways

• Start building your M&A data vault 1–2 years in advance for deal-readiness
• Culture-first hiring and top-tier talent drive long-term operational success
• Combining related services (coffee + supplies) can create a defensible market edge
• Earnouts often underdeliver—opt for cash deals when possible
• A top-notch M&A lawyer is more valuable than a flashy M&A firm
• Understanding your acquirer’s needs can dramatically increase valuation
• Exiting a business doesn’t mean retiring—plan a purpose-driven next chapter
• Post-exit, your identity may shift—prepare emotionally, not just financially

Links & Resources

• Calvin Johnson

  • ClubNeed (Social Giving Platform): clubneed.org
  • ClubNeed Travel (Impact Travel Trips): clubneedtravel.com

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