Episode 299: Boutique Fitness Exits: What Every Studio Owner Needs to Know Before Selling, with Mitch McGinley the Boutique Fitness Broker

Episode Summary:

Thinking about selling your fitness or wellness business one day? This episode is a must-listen. Christa Gurka sits down with Mitch McGinley, founder of Boutique Fitness Broker, to unpack the highs, lows, and lessons learned from her own seven-figure studio sale.

Together, they explore what makes a business truly sellable, how deal structures are formed, what to expect during due diligence, and how SBA financing, SDE, and EBITDA play into your valuation. They also get real about the emotional rollercoaster of letting go — from collapsed deals to closing day relief.

Mitch also shares his journey from yoga studio owner to digital nomad living in Spain, and how he’s helped sell over 70 boutique fitness studios, including Christa’s.

Whether you’re years away from selling or just want to make your business more profitable and sustainable, this episode is packed with practical, real-world insight you won’t hear anywhere else.

What You’ll Learn:

• The anatomy of a studio sale from start to finish
• How to value your studio using SDE and EBITDA
• Why you need clean financials, reasonable comp, and operational independence
• What can go wrong (and right!) during due diligence
• Why Christa walked away from her first deal — and how her second deal turned into a win
• How to mentally and financially prepare for an exit
• The difference between a lifestyle business and one that’s ready to sell
• Tips for studio owners looking to grow through acquisition

Connect with Mitch McGinley:
Website: boutiquefitnessbroker.com
Email: mitch@boutiquefitnessbroker.com
Instagram: @boutiquefitnessbroker

Want to make your business more profitable, scalable, and sellable — even if you never plan to sell?
Check out Christa’s programs at fitbizstrategies.com and follow her on Instagram at @christagurka.