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From Army Officer to Nashville Business Broker: My Path to Helping Owners Exit on Their Terms

Written by Updated March 10, 2026
Picture of Joseph Steigman
Joseph Steigman

Joe Steigman is the Founder of Legacy Entrepreneurs, a boutique business brokerage and exit advisory firm focused on helping business owners maximize value and transition their companies with confidence. With a background that combines operational leadership, corporate consulting, finance, and entrepreneurship, Joe brings a practical, owner-focused perspective to business sales and acquisitions. Joe is a Certified Business Intermediary (CBI), a designation awarded by the International Business B...

From Army Officer to Nashville Business Broker: My Path to Helping Owners Exit on Their Terms

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.

Military Logistics Gave Me a Solid Foundation

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.

I’ve Been a Small Business Owner, Too

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.

I’ve Also Worked in Corporate Consulting and Acquisitions

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.

My Credentials Back Up My Experience

  • B.A. from George Washington University
  • MBA from UNC Chapel Hill
  • Financial Modeling & Valuation Analyst certificate (CFI)
  • Member of the International Business Brokers Association (IBBA)

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.

My Approach: Honest Valuations and Straightforward Advice

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.

Why This Matters for Resiliency and Valuation

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.

Let’s Talk About What’s Right for You

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.

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