From uncertainty to impact— Robin Lewis opens up about his agency’s sale, post-deal surprises, and why having a true advisor changed everything.
When agency owners close their deal, most expect relief—and they get it. But the real journey often begins after the champagne is popped. My conversation with Robin Lewis on Three Questions cuts past the deal buzz. It’s a candid look at the hidden truths that come after the closing table.
You Can Lose Your Team
Robin shared how quickly the culture shifts once a deal closes:
“Within some weeks, people who were there day‑in, day‑out just quietly left. I didn’t see it coming.” That’s the emotional gap many don’t prepare for. What was once a mission atmosphere becomes an unfamiliar landscape.
Who’s Calling the Shots Now?
Gone are the days of being in the driver’s seat. Robin admitted:
“I thought I’d still be involved—and then I realized steering wasn’t exactly my job anymore.” That’s a tough pill to swallow when you’ve spent decades building the agency.
Advisors Are Your Co‑Pilot Robin noted the difference:
“When I had someone in my corner, they were pulling (Putting?) on the brakes before I even knew I needed it.” A skilled advisor doesn’t just negotiate headlines—they help guard your transition so legacy survives alongside liquidity.
The “Next Chapter” Isn’t a Blank Page
Many think closing a deal means starting over. Robin said:
“It wasn’t the fresh start I imagined—it required new purpose, new discipline, new earned trust.” Legacy isn’t left behind. It just evolves—and requires intentional adjustment.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late to Plan
Robin’s advice was direct:
“Start the conversation years before you want to walk away.” He wished he’d acted three years earlier. Jumping into due diligence late cost him leverage—and peace of mind.
What This Means for Youfiv
● Start Early: Use tools like the Legacy & Market Readiness Blueprint™ to diagnose and close gaps now—before buyers define the terms.
● Engage Advisors: Don’t let the “one-shot” buyer script guide your process. Advisors bring leverage, structure, and optionality.
● Own the Bridge: You owe it to yourself and your team to steer the transition, not just ride the wave.
● Define Your Next Move: Post-sale life isn’t automatic—it deserves as much intentionality as everything you’ve done before.
Closing Thoughts
Robin’s story is part cautionary tale, part roadmap. It sparked powerful reminders for me too—about relationships, legacy, and knowing the difference between a deal and a well-planned transition.
If you’re an agency owner thinking about what comes next—not just financially, but emotionally—this episode is your wake-up call. Watch, then take action. Reach out. Plan. Prepare. Your legacy deserves more than luck.
BONUS: Request your Legacy & Market Readiness Blueprint to diagnose your transition readiness—and avoid the unknowns Robin lived through.
— John Biasiello Partner, Sukay & Associates Host, Three Questions