**Friendly Journalistic Summary:**

Michael Nall is a seasoned professional with over 30 years of experience in the realm of privately held companies, specializing in maximizing business value. As a retired CPA and M&A intermediary, he has led a vast network of independent business owners, investors, and advisors, facilitating connections to enhance private business value. Notably, he founded the highly esteemed Alliance of Merger & Acquisition Advisors (AM&AA), a renowned international professional trade association. Michael is also the architect behind the "Certified Merger & Acquisition Advisor" (CM&AA) program, offering professional training and credentialing for corporate financial advisors. With a background in accounting and management, having studied at DePaul University and Eastern Illinois University, he has a wealth of knowledge in valuing and transferring privately held businesses. His accolades include participating in over 50 private business transfers and aiding in the valuation of 2,000+ companies. A trailblazer in the field, Michael has left an indelible mark through his entrepreneurial ventures, such as building and selling his accounting business and spearheading the growth of the nation's largest bookkeeping and tax franchise network.