Selling a business may look like a financial transaction, but for the person who built it, letting go can feel deeply personal.

In this episode of Life Chapters, Money Choices, Kim Potgieter and Michael Avery speak with Judy Sunasky, former owner of Blendwell Chemicals and now a business and leadership coach and Women Presidents Organization chapter chair. After spending 25 years building and running Blendwell, Judy sold the company and discovered that preparing the business and the numbers was not the same as preparing herself.

Judy shares how closely her identity, relationships, routine and confidence had become tied to the business, and why the period after the sale brought an unexpected sense of grief. She also reflects on finding meaningful work again through coaching and supporting other entrepreneurs.

The conversation looks at both sides of a business exit: building a company that can operate without its founder, and creating a life that does not depend on the company for purpose. Kim explains why succession and financial planning should begin early, how a clear view of future living costs can guide the sale price, and why moving from a regular salary to drawing from investments can feel unsettling even when the money is sufficient. The discussion also considers the value of developing a parallel life, keeping relationships active and involving your partner in decisions about what comes next.

This episode matters for anyone who has spent years building a business, career or professional identity and is beginning to think about stepping away. A successful exit is not only about what you receive for the business. It is also about knowing who you want to be when it is no longer yours.

🎧 Tune in. Be brave. Be on purpose.