Russell Bernstein, Business Consultant 3197 Richland Avenue, Metairie, LA 70002

"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.""