Russell Bernstein, Business Consultant

"Russell really brought the muscle to my hustle to help me sell my vending machine business! We had it listed for only 6 months, it was under contract in 4 months, we had only one price reduction and it was sold for listing price! I'm very happy to be able to move onto my next business opportunity, and I am kind of relieved because now I don't have to force my kids to take over a business they didn't want and weren't ready to take over."

"Russell went above and beyond my expectations to help me come up with a value for my business. He is insightful, explains things well, and focused on the realistic amount of the subject at hand. I really appreciated consulting with him for this project and hope that I have an opportunity to work with him again on another project."

"I'm grateful that Russell was able to guide me through the process of buying my first business. I come from a family of entrepreneurs, and Russell helped to not only facilitate my ability to understand the risks and challenges of running a business but he also helped my father feel test assured of my independent ability to be a successful businesswoman. I look forward to hiring Russell again to help leverage my new trademark to potential franchisees!"

"Without Russell I would not be living my dream right now. He found me and dropped an opportunity of a lifetime into my lap. My very own salon! He helped me every step of the way. As a first time business buyer his coaching, support and knowledge were invaluable. He most definitely navigated my journey through the rough but exciting waters of buying a business with ease. I truly appreciate all of the support he gave. It was a pleasure to work with him."

"The very first thing I was taught by Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses was that the strongest business owners have exit strategies in place. Last year, as I got to a new place with my business and celebrated 8 years in operation, I realized my exit strategy needed a tune-up. I had no idea how much my business was worth or what the process would look like for selling it when the time came. I met Russell Bernstein soon after at a BNI meeting and we set up a meeting where he explained the valuation process to me. I saved up the money needed for him to do this important work and we got to it! Despite the fact that his wife had a baby during the time we were working together, Russell was on task and holding me accountable each step of the way. As we re-cast my financials, he helped me to stay concrete and quantify my business (which is very hard when you feel emotionally close to all you do). I was very pleased with the professionalism of the process and especially with the extensive report I received detailing how my business was valued. Plus, I got to find out it is worth more than I could have imagined! I've chosen not to sell for the moment. This process helped to recognize what I love about what I do and re-invest. Russell is still supporting me in thinking through how to grow the value of my business. He provides great ideas and advice! When it comes time to list the business, I will definitely hire Russell to "bring the muscle to my hustle.""