Selling a Restaurant in Tennessee: A Practical Guide
Selling a restaurant is one of the most significant decisions an owner can make. Whether you’re ready to retire, pivot to a new business, or simply...
2 min read
Joseph Steigman : Updated on February 23, 2026
I’m not the kind of broker who tells you what you want to hear. I’m going to tell you what I think — based on data, experience, and what I’ve seen work (and fail) in the real world.
Before becoming a Nashville business broker, I led soldiers, ran my own delivery business, worked in corporate consulting, and advised other entrepreneurs on acquisitions and exits. I’ve had my hands on everything from forklifts to financial models. That background shapes the way I help business owners plan their exit or step out of day-to-day operations.
I spent seven years in the Army as a logistics officer. I served in Korea, Kuwait, and Somalia. Nothing flashy — just doing the job, making things move, and leading soldiers day in and day out. It taught me a lot about accountability, operations, and working under pressure with limited resources.
Today, those same principles show up in how I work with clients: I stay clear, direct, and focused on helping you make decisions that hold up under scrutiny.
After the Army, I started a final mile delivery business. It was a COVID-era grind — managing drivers, running routes, handling broken-down trucks, and trying to keep customers and employees happy at the same time. I’ve been the guy dealing with P&Ls on Saturday nights and figuring out how to make payroll.
That experience matters. When I talk to business owners, I understand what you’re going through because I’ve lived it. I’m not advising from the sidelines.
After selling that business, I worked in consulting — reporting ROI on large projects, advising executives, and getting exposure to corporate strategy. I also helped a friend acquire a small business and served as head of his advisory board through to a successful exit. Along the way, we looked at a number of bolt-on acquisitions and growth plays.
That mix of small business ownership and corporate exposure gives me a unique perspective. I can talk high-level strategy, but I’m always rooted in what works on the ground.
Credentials matter, but they aren’t everything. What I bring to the table is a mix of hands-on leadership, financial analysis, and business sense — and I use all of it to help you figure out the best path forward.
If your business isn’t ready to sell, I’ll tell you. If it’s not worth what you think, I’ll show you why — and help you understand what would make it worth more. I’m not interested in pumping up numbers just to win your listing.
I’ll also help you evaluate other options, like bringing on a general manager so you can step away without exiting entirely. Sometimes that’s the better move — and I’ll let you know when it is.
A business that doesn’t rely on the owner for every decision is worth more. A business with clean financials, documented processes, and leadership in place gives buyers confidence — and that translates to higher value and better offers.
Whether you’re planning to sell now, in five years, or not at all, improving the resiliency of your business gives you options. That’s what I help owners do — build options, build value, and build their legacy.
If you’re looking for a Nashville business broker who’s been in your shoes and won’t sugarcoat the process, I’m ready when you are. Whether you’re selling, stepping back, or just exploring what’s possible, I’ll give you clear advice and high-quality support — no fluff.
Selling a restaurant is one of the most significant decisions an owner can make. Whether you’re ready to retire, pivot to a new business, or simply...
If you’re considering selling your business but concerned about the tax hit, you’re not alone. Many business owners hesitate to exit because of the...
When a business owner hits a turning point — whether that’s scaling up, stepping away, or preparing for a sale — the next hire can dramatically shape...