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Join the Acquired Limited Partner program! https://kimberlite.fm/acquired/ (works best on mobile)   Ben a David are joined by special guest Taylor Barada, VP and Head of Corporate Development a Strategic Partnerships at Adobe, to discuss how large tech acquirers approach buying companies. This episode is full of great insights for startups a entrepreneurs who might find themselves navigating the MaA process, as well as anyone curious about the craft of dealmaking and the strategic approach of large acquirers.    Topics covered include: How conversations begin between startups and acquirers The importance of building a relationship with acquirers over time and "investing in lines, not dots” (just like raising VC) The often under-appreciated role of culture fit between acquirers and acquisition targets  How entrepreneurs should evaluate acquirers throughout the MaA process  Two examples of successful acquisitions Taylor completed at Yahoo in Citizen Sports and IntoNow The MaA process at large technology acquirers, from initial conversations to LOI, due diligence and the definitive merger agreement  The relative roles of Corp Dev, business/product owners and executive sponsors in the MaA process Common mistakes startups (and VC’s) often make in the MaA process Different “categories” of MaA that acquirers think about, and the relative risks a opportunities of “core" acquisitions vs transformative new businesses  What percentage of deals Adobe looks at actually happen, and the importance of being willing to say no MaA as a tool for strategy, and the different MaA cultures a approaches at different companies  Tech themes Taylor and Adobe think about as part of their MaA strategy Evaluating the longterm success of deals and the importance of the MaA integration function    Followups: Ben a David’s quick take on Instagram Stories!    The Carve Out Ben: Why the Concorde failed by Vox David: Simone Biles, the greatest gymnast of all time Taylor: Mindset by Carol Dweck, Shoe Dog by Phil Knight, Originals: How Non-Conformists Move the World by Adam Grant