In this episode of The Peel Podcast, host Shelley McGuire sits down with Mike Finkel, CEO of Sparksoft, to talk about the real value and potential pitfalls of forming Joint Ventures under the SBA Mentor-Protégé Program. From lessons learned in failed partnerships to advice on finding the right cultural and strategic fit, Mike pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to make a JV work. Think of it as a business marriage - you’ll want to be sure you’re choosing the right partner before you say “I do.” Mike explains why SBA approval is critical for protecting small business status, how mentors can strengthen a small firm’s infrastructure and capabilities, and the misconceptions around “flipping” work or guaranteed awards. He also emphasizes the importance of cultural alignment, transparency, and building a solid operating plan from the start. Whether you’re a small business considering your first Mentor-Protégé relationship or a large firm looking to guide the next generation, this episode is packed with real-world advice you don’t want to miss. To connect with Mike, follow him on LinkedIn here.Learn more about Sparksoft by visiting their webpage here.