Welcome to the Private Equity Podcast!  In this episode, we explore "Private Equity and Technology Transformation" with Alan Williamson. Alan, a seasoned CTO and operating partner, shares insights from his journey—from embedded engineering to navigating Enterprise Java and PE due diligence. He emphasizes crucial operational details affecting portfolio companies, such as cybersecurity and data ownership, and discusses the evolving role of technology in PE.[00:10] Social engineering is still the number one way to hack a company.[00:17] Introduction of guest Alan Williamson, CTO, operating partner, and author.[00:46] Discussion on technology transformation, pitfalls in private equity, and opportunities pre and post-deal.[01:13] Shares background from embedded engineer to Java development and entry into private equity.[02:08] Discusses common mistake in portfolio companies: neglecting operational details like domain ownership and software subscriptions.[03:30] Anecdote on operational oversight challenges in companies due to misplaced responsibilities.[04:29] Highlights key red flags in due diligence, emphasizing over-reliance on individual technical knowledge within companies.[05:53] Discussion on technology enablement in private equity and the evolving role of specialized operating partners.[08:17] Contrasts in-house technical expertise with external consultancy services in private equity firms.[09:44] Pre-deal considerations including data ownership and regulatory compliance.[10:37] Security concerns in acquisitions, emphasizing cybersecurity diligence and compliance across different states.[14:37] Discusses social engineering as a primary hacking method in corporate security breaches.[15:00] Post-deal implementation strategies including securing operations and aligning with PE firm objectives.[18:58] Maximizing data value through machine learning and leveraging historical data for business insights.[21:23] Personal influences and recommendations, highlighting interests in movies and older business literature.[23:46] Alex Rawlings wraps up the podcast. You can connect with Alan Williamson on LinkedIn by visiting his profile here. Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Send us a Text Message. Welcome to the Private Equity Podcast! In this episode, join us as we delve into intentional business growth strategies with Tim O'Reilly. Learn key insights for success. [00:11] Tim discusses the influence of certain books on shaping strategies.[01:19] Introduction to Tim O'Reilly and focus on intentional business growth strategy.[02:17] Reflections on Frontier Service Partners' successful exit and the importance of strategy.[03:17] Tim elaborates on the intentional strategy at Guild Garage Group.[04:11] Key elements of successful business strategy, including leadership alignment.[05:03] Analogies are drawn from crew dynamics to highlight clear leadership importance.[06:00] Success story from Frontier Service Partners, emphasizing leadership impact.[07:48] Discussion on transferring successful strategies to future endeavors.[09:14] Importance of culture and consistency in delivering exceptional service.[10:07] Utilizing weekly leadership meetings for consistency and accountability.[11:07] Reference to "Atomic Habits" by James Clear and daily habits' significance.[12:59] Transitioning to intentional strategy at Guild Garage Group, emphasis on leadership development.[14:25] Focus on sustainable business strategy beyond financial goals.[15:21] Prioritizing leadership development and employee training.[16:47] Investing in leadership training and development programs.[18:15] Discussion on employee experience and its impact on customer satisfaction.[19:39] Creating career paths and supporting employees' growth.[20:38] Driving brand loyalty through consistent, high-quality customer experiences.[21:58] Anticipating referrals and exponential business growth through service excellence.[22:58] Balancing cost optimization with growth strategies.[23:27] Mention of partnership with Grata for data-driven deal flow enhancement.[23:55] Focus on leadership development plans and training initiatives.[24:22] Basic principles of leadership development.[24:50] Understanding personal goals of leaders and aligning them with work objectives.[26:16] Insights on time management and personal well-being for effective leadership.[27:42] Tools for assessing strengths and consistent leadership training importance.[29:07] Importance of documenting personal and work goals.[29:34] Aligning leadership training with business needs.[31:54] Evolving leadership training programs to address business challenges.[33:20] Commitment to strength-based leadership.[34:45] Regular reassessment of strengths for alignment.[37:35] Tim's advice on transitioning from CFO to CEO.[42:42] Encouragement for aspiring leaders to seek growth opportunities.[43:36] Tim shares his contact information for further assistance.[44:06] Conclusion and invitation to subscribe to the Private Equity Podcast. You can connect with Tim O'Reilly on LinkedIn by visiting his profile here. Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Send us a Text Message. Welcome to the Private Equity Podcast! In this episode, host Alex Rawlings dives into a rich conversation with Nathan Sanders. From navigating financial constraints during the pandemic to tackling add-on acquisitions and integrating technology effectively, Nathan shares valuable insights gained from his extensive experience in leading Private Equity-backed businesses. Tune in to glean lessons on leadership, growth strategies, and the importance of a growth mindset in the world of Private Equity. [00:12] Introduction to the episode, highlighting Nathan Sanders' experience as a Private Equity-backed CEO in various industries.[01:35] Nathan Sanders introduces himself as a value-driven leader, emphasizing his focus on transformation and continuous improvement.[02:32] Discussion on the common mistake of focusing too much on short-term challenges rather than long-term value creation in Private Equity-backed companies.[04:52] Strategies for shifting focus towards long-term value creation during the middle phase of Private Equity investments.[08:04] Nathan shares lessons learned from leading Brooke Furniture through challenges and towards a successful exit.[12:17] Processes implemented to gather intelligence on customer service needs, including direct interactions with customers and team members.[15:32] Refinement of processes to automate simpler tasks, allowing the team to focus on addressing exceptions and improving service delivery.[16:29] Nathan Sanders discusses the impact of understanding customer needs and team alignment on business success, leading to increased KPIs and decreased variable costs.[17:29] Sanders talks about tackling financial constraints during the pandemic and other industry headwinds by redeploying resources and focusing on revenue growth.[20:09] Discussion on mitigating financial risks during challenging times and leveraging opportunities for revenue growth through strategic decision-making.[20:38] Sanders shares advice for portfolio executives on managing acquisitions, emphasizing the importance of understanding the purpose behind acquisitions and building in risk factors.[26:56] Insights from Sanders on successful integration strategies for acquisitions, including understanding the end goal, focusing on process mapping, and fostering a growth mindset within the team.[29:46] Sanders discusses lessons learned from working with both large and small companies, highlighting the importance of technology implementation and process mapping in driving efficiency and growth.[32:34] Discussion on prioritizing technology investments based on customer-facing needs and optimizing processes for maximum impact on revenue growth.[36:22] Recommendations from Sanders on books and podcasts, including "The Fixed Versus Growth Mindset" by Carol Dweck, "What Got You Here, Won't Get You There" by Marshall Goldsmith, and the Founders Podcast with David Sentra.[42:05] Insights from Sanders on fostering a growth mindset within teams, effective communication strategies, and recommendations for further engagement through LinkedIn and personal email.You can connect with Nathan Sanders on LinkedIn by visiting his profile here.Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, sen

Send us a Text Message. Welcome to the Private Equity Podcast! In this episode, host Alex Rawlings engages in a dynamic discussion with Nick McLean, founder of Four Pillars Investors, on the topics of servant leadership and disruptive marketing in the Private Equity sector. Join us as we delve into Nick's insights and experiences in navigating the complexities of the industry. [00:00] Hosted by Alex Rawlings, featuring Nick McLean. Discussion on servant leadership and disruptive marketing in Private Equity.[00:12] Nick McLean, founder of Four Pillars Investors and creator of Nick McLean Private Equity YouTube channel.[00:42] Nick McLean, co-founder of Four Pillars Investors, targeting lower middle market companies with untapped growth potential.[01:09] Not all firms are equal; some are overly spreadsheet-driven. Four Pillars Investors prioritizes entrepreneurial problem-solving over rigid financial analysis.[03:03] Nick's shift from business operator to Private Equity investor, emphasizing portfolio growth and development.[04:52] Prioritize relationship-building; establish rapport before closing deals. Four Pillars Investors focuses on strong, pre-existing relationships.[07:41] Named after core values: Relationships, Servant Leadership, Challenge the Status Quo, Persistence.[09:27] Focus on helping team members succeed; create positive work environments and prioritize career development.[14:49]  Nick's decision to start a YouTube channel differentiates Four Pillars Investors, aims to provide valuable content and build relationships.[18:17] Content creation and branding are long-term investments; intent and commitment are crucial for success.[22:09] Studying leadership principles; recommended book: "Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion" by Robert Cialdini.[24:30] Contact details for Nick - Email: [email protected]; YouTube Channel: Nick4FourPillars.[25:55] Thank you to Nick McLean for sharing insights; subscribe to the Private Equity Podcast for weekly episodes.To connect with Nick, visit his LinkedIn profile at: Nick McLean LinkedIn Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Send us a Text Message.Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! In this episode, host Alex Rawlings discusses the critical factors behind deal failures and how to steer clear of them. Brian Scanlon from DealGen Partners shares insights on deal origination and sales processes. He stresses prep and presentation, akin to staging a house for sale. Brian pinpoints reasons for deal failures: unprepared sellers, messy finances, and unrealistic valuations. He also covers effective deal structures, boosting multipliers, and seller challenges like cultural clashes and prolonged due diligence. Key takeaway: swift action and clear communication are vital to keep deals on track. Tune in for expert advice on selling a company successfully and avoiding pitfalls.[00:00] Alex Rawlings introduces the topic of selling a company and the challenge of achieving high multipliers. He welcomes Brian Scanlon, noting his previous podcast on deal origination.[01:18] Brian Scanlon discusses the common reasons deals fail, primarily due to sellers being unprepared. He explains the importance of proper preparation and packaging, akin to staging a house for sale.[03:40] Brian estimates that nearly all proprietary deals are unprepared and outlines why private equity funds prefer these deals despite the lack of preparation.[04:39] Brian highlights the role of investment bankers in managing the sale process efficiently, similar to selling a house, and stresses the need for sellers to be upfront about financials and issues.[07:30] Brian identifies the lack of clean financials and unrealistic valuation expectations as major reasons deals fail. He emphasizes the importance of accurate financial statements and realistic deal structures.[09:52] Brian explains typical deal structures, including cash at close, earnouts, and equity rollovers, and stresses the importance of understanding these structures before going to market.[11:17] Brian discusses factors that increase a company's multiplier, such as recurring revenue, customer retention, and quality contracts. He uses the staffing industry as an example to illustrate these points.[14:13] He explains the challenges of project-based businesses with high customer churn and declining revenue, which generally have lower multipliers.[16:06] Brian talks about why sellers back out of deals, citing cultural misalignment, process frustration, and the length of the due diligence period as primary reasons.[19:56] He notes that tighter debt markets and more rigorous due diligence are causing deals to take longer, increasing the risk of the business not appearing as attractive by the closing date.[22:50] Brian emphasizes the importance of effective communication to keep deals moving and shares examples where delays led to deals falling through. He advises completing the due diligence period quickly to avoid deal collapse.[25:46] Alex asks for top advice.  [26:20] Alex thanks Brian for joining him on the podcast. To connect with Brian, visit his LinkedIn profile: Brian Scanlon LinkedIn Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Send us a Text Message.Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! In this episode, host Alex Rawlings is joined by Paul Swaney, Managing Director of Swaney Group Capital. Formerly with Partners Group and a veteran of McKinsey and Amazon, Paul dives into the intricate world of value creation from an operator turned investor perspective. He shares his journey from the military to the forefront of private equity, discusses the innovative use of media for business growth, and details the strategic operational frameworks that have shaped his successful career. Join us as Paul provides a deep dive into his approach to enhancing portfolio company performance and his insights on the pivotal role of transformation governance in private equity.Breakdown: [00:00] Introduction to Paul Swaney, discussing his transition from Partners Group to founding Swaney Group Capital.[00:10] How Paul uses media to enhance his Private Equity firm’s outcomes.[00:22] Mention of a successful investment initiated from Twitter.[00:25] Overview of Paul’s career and insights into his value creation strategies in Private Equity.[00:55] Paul provides a detailed background of his diverse experiences from military service to corporate roles and Private Equity.[01:24] Insights into applying lean system in a chemical plant and his recruitment by McKinsey.[02:21] Challenges of starting his own Private Equity firm during peak deal flow times and growing his team.[03:17] Common mistakes in Private Equity from deal processing to post-acquisition management.[04:45] Lessons from Partners Group and the importance of transformation governance post-acquisition.[06:04] Introduction to the Swaney Group Operating System, focusing on operational excellence.[07:30] Discussion on maintaining flexibility and strategic planning in business operations.[09:25] Paul’s effective use of social media for deal origination and brand building.[10:24] Emphasis on the initial 100-day observational period post-acquisition to understand business intricacies.[12:16] Typical patterns observed in founder-led businesses and strategic advice for potential acquisitions.[14:43] Importance of strategic operational assessments in Private Equity investments.[18:27] Paul discusses leveraging media for enhancing visibility and deal flow in Private Equity.[19:25] Success stories from using Twitter for business development and investment opportunities.[21:17] Closing thoughts on the integration of operational systems within Private Equity to enhance performance.To connect with Paul, you can visit his LinkedIn profile at Paul Swaney LinkedIn.Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! In this episode, host Alex Rawlings talks with Chris Jamroz, CEO of Roadrunner and a former executive at Ascent Global Logistics. Chris shares his extensive experience in logistics and Private Equity, discussing the transition from investment banking to executive leadership. He highlights the common errors in Private Equity, such as focusing too heavily on past performance instead of potential growth, and offers advice on effective leadership and strategic investment. Chris also provides insights into navigating the cyclical nature of the logistics industry and emphasizes the importance of operational expertise in achieving successful exits. This episode offers valuable perspectives on leadership and investment strategies in Private Equity.Breakdown: [00:00] Introduction to the podcast and guest Chris Jamroz, highlighting his commitment and unique approach to running a business.[00:16] Chris reflects on the critical factors contributing to his success over the past four years.[00:26] Chris offers advice on being a successful Private Equity-backed CEO.[00:46] Overview of Chris's career trajectory from investment banking to leadership roles in logistics, and the recent sale of Assent to HIG.[01:16] Start of the in-depth conversation with Chris, exploring his strategies and experiences across various roles.[01:46] Chris shares his approach as a "shareholder value unlocking specialist" and his operational playbook across the global supply chain.[02:12] Discussion on common mistakes in Private Equity and portfolio companies, with historical context and advice for modern practices.[03:58] Chris critiques the backward-looking focus of Private Equity firms and emphasizes the importance of future potential in investment decisions.[06:21] Chris elaborates on the need for a paradigm shift in Private Equity from past performance to future potentialities.[07:19] Inquiry into balancing the evaluation of past performance and future potential in Private Equity investments.[10:15] The significance of having a strong operations team in achieving successful outcomes in Private Equity ventures.[13:39] Mention of Grata, highlighting its role in enhancing proprietary deal flow with data-driven processes.[14:07] Chris provides insights into the logistics industry, discussing its trends and cyclicality.[18:27] Detailing the process and challenges faced during the recent sale of Assent Global Logistics to HIG.[22:18] Chris shares the personal and professional challenges he faced from taking office to navigating company exits.[26:47] Advice to Private Equity-backed chief executives on understanding and adapting to business realities.[33:07] Chris discusses his personal influences and reading habits, emphasizing the value of learning from both successes and failures.[39:13] Closing remarks and ways to contact Chris Jamroz for further insights and discussions.To connect with Chris, you can visit his LinkedIn profile at Chris Jamroz LinkedIn. Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! In this episode, host Alex Rawlings chats with Dan Cremons, Founder of Accelera Partners, and discusses the integration of human capital into Private Equity value creation, emphasizing proactive talent management. He shares insights on optimizing teams, strategic hiring, and the significance of due diligence on leadership before acquisition. Cremons stresses learning from hiring mistakes, recognizing biases, and evolving human capital practices. He advocates for nuanced talent assessment, including development and coaching. Resources influencing his approach to value creation and human capital in private equity are also shared.Breakdown:[00:00] Introduction to the concept of surgically approaching value creation.[00:18] Discussion on common hiring mistakes rooted in cognitive biases.[00:30] Introduction of Dan Cremons, founder of Accelera Partners, and an overview of his background in Private Equity.[00:59] The focus shifts to the importance of talent, hiring processes, due diligence, and the use of scorecards.[01:29] Dan Cremons shares his journey from finance to Private Equity and founding Accelera Partners.[02:56] Key mistake Private Equity firms make: a reactive approach to value creation.[04:22] The evolving importance of proactive value creation in a competitive Private Equity space.[05:21] Explanation of value creation and its fundamental meaning.[07:16] The critical role of people in driving value creation.[09:12] Introduction to people planning and its importance.[13:20] The ongoing process of aligning talent with the company's evolving needs[17:38] Discussion on the iterative effort of people planning throughout an investment.[20:02] Personal reflections on learning from hiring mistakes.[23:42] The evolution of human capital practices in Private Equity.[27:02] Importance of professional training in interviewing and hiring.[30:44] Due diligence on portfolio companies' executive teams pre-acquisition.[34:03] The broader scope of organizational due diligence, including leadership, talent, culture, and capabilities.[37:18] Dan Cremons shares his influences and recommended resources.You can connect with Dan Cremons on LinkedIn by visiting his LinkedIn Page - Link to Dan Cremons' LinkedInThank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! In this episode, host Alex Rawlings engages with Chris Parisi, a partner at Carl Marks Advisors, to discuss how Private Equity firms can more effectively engage with business owners and founders to secure successful deals. Parisi shares insights from his extensive experience in middle-market investment banking, focusing on the nuances of working with family-owned and privately held businesses. He emphasizes the importance of understanding and respecting the unique challenges these businesses face, such as customer concentration and the need for a cultural fit beyond mere financial valuation. Throughout the discussion, Parisi offers advice on building trust with business owners, the current and future M&A outlook, and how Private Equity firms can adapt their strategies to ensure mutual success in acquisitions.Breakdown: [00:00] Alex Rawlings introduces the Raw Selection Private Equity Podcast, welcoming Chris Parisi to discuss Private Equity strategies.[00:12] Chris traces his career from Ernst & Young to the Blackstone Group and his current role at Carl Marks Advisors.[01:12] Insight into Chris's career shifts and his significant move to Blackstone Group.[01:42] Chris discusses the evolution of fund sizes he has managed, from his early career to present multi-billion dollar funds.[02:12] He explains his academic and professional journey in middle market investment banking post-MBA from Northwestern.[02:42] Overview of Carl Marks Advisors' focus on middle market M&A and family-owned businesses.[03:09] Chris highlights challenges like customer concentration in family-owned business M&A.[04:04] Insights on how Private Equity firms may miss opportunities by strictly adhering to their investment criteria.[05:30] Emphasis on the importance of recognizing management team strengths in investment strategies.[05:59] Discussion on the 2024 middle market M&A outlook, considering interest rates and earnings visibility.[07:56] Predictions of increased deal flow activity in late 2024 and 2025 due to more predictable earnings.[09:50] How Private Equity firms can build acquisition confidence through predictable financial projections.[10:46] Factors influencing the shallow M&A market of 2023, including COVID-19 and supply chain issues.[14:18] Chris discusses the need for strategic adjustments in supply chain management post-pandemic.[17:15] Insights into why family business owners decide to sell, driven by personal motivations and life events.[18:14] What business owners seek in Private Equity firms beyond financials, like cultural fit and growth plans.[21:09] Effective engagement strategies for Private Equity firms with business owners during acquisitions.[25:30] Chris shares his personal influences and recommended readings.[28:27] Closing remarks and contact information for Chris Parisi for further M&A insights.To connect with Chris, you can visit his LinkedIn profile at Chris Parisi LinkedIn. Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! In this episode, host Alex Rawlings speaks with Rocío Heres, Partner at AltamarCam Partners and discusses the competitive nature of capital raising in Private Equity, stressing the value of talent development and succession planning for long-term success. She highlights the shift towards specialization in the industry and the importance of aligning with LP expectations in fundraising efforts. Rocío shares insights from her international career and addresses the balance between professional success and personal life, advocating for increased female representation in Private Equity. Contact details for further conversations with Rocío are also provided.Breakdown:[00:00] The competitive landscape for capital in Private Equity is discussed.[00:16] Rocío Heres, a partner at AltamarCam Partners, is introduced. The episode promises insights on strategies to attract more capital and women into Private Equity, career advice, and more.[01:14] Rocío shares her background, highlighting her role in Private Equity investments in North America.[02:07] The common mistake of Private Equity firms taking their people for granted is discussed, emphasizing the importance of fostering a family-like environment and career growth.[03:05] The necessity for clear succession planning and career path development within private equity firms to ensure long-term success.[04:29] Rocío talks about observing the evolution of Private Equity firms and the importance of stable, process-oriented firms that focus on repeatable and understandable processes.[07:21] The challenges and opportunities in a competitive capital market are discussed. Rocío emphasizes the importance of sticking to core investment strategies and learning from various Private Equity firms.[10:34] The trend towards specialization within Private Equity firms is noted, including sector-focused and generalist firms developing expertise in specific areas.[13:41] Rocío comments on the changing fundraising landscape and the increasing effort by Private Equity firms to understand LP needs.[17:21] The benefits of having an international career and Rocío's experiences working in different countries are shared.[20:07] Cultural differences and the welcoming nature of the North American market are discussed.[22:29] Rocío talks about her influences, focusing on staying updated with market trends and developments, especially in the secondary market.[24:24] Addressing the gender gap in Private Equity, Rocío emphasizes the possibility of balancing a successful career and family life within the industry.[28:05] Contact information for Rocío is provided, encouraging listeners to reach out for advice or discussion.You can connect with Rocio Heres on LinkedIn by visiting her LinkedIn Page here.Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! In this episode, we are joined by Sam Adams, Managing Director of Talent at Berkshire Partners. Sam shares invaluable insights into the importance of talent development and hiring beyond the conventional Private Equity norms. Discover Berkshire Partners' innovative approaches to nurturing talent, their unique selection processes, and the impact these strategies have on their overall success. Sam also discusses the cultural elements that support growth within a Private Equity firm and the unconventional paths to hiring that have proven effective. Stay tuned as we dive deep into how Berkshire Partners sets the gold standard in people development.Breakdown:[00:00] Introduction to Sam Adams and the focus of the podcast on advanced talent management practices in Private Equity.[00:28] Overview of Berkshire Partners' innovative approaches to talent development and hiring.[01:57] Sam shares her unique journey from advertising to becoming the head of talent at Berkshire Partners.[04:44] Discussion on common mistakes Private Equity firms make in talent assessment and how Berkshire addresses these challenges.[07:04] In-depth look at how Berkshire develops its talents, including the training and mentorship programs available.[10:48] Sam discusses the structured mentorship and the robust performance review processes at Berkshire.[14:08] Influence of firm culture on talent development and the integration of functional experts within deal teams.[18:00] Details on the managing director development process and feedback mechanisms used at Berkshire.[22:12] Sam emphasizes the importance of getting the hiring process right to ensure smooth operations and development within the firm.[28:49] Recent changes and improvements in Berkshire's selection process based on lessons learned.[33:00] Further discussion on the non-predictive nature of traditional educational scores in hiring.[38:16] Explanation of Berkshire’s comprehensive approach to building internal infrastructure to support its operations and investment strategies.[42:00] Exploration of the firm's cultural emphasis on talent and the historical roots of this focus.[45:22] Closing remarks and thanks to Sam for her insights.To connect with Sam, you can visit her LinkedIn profile here.Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! This is the first episode in The Playbook Series. In this episode, host Alex Rawlings speaks with Carl Cox, the CEO of 40 Strategy. Carl shares insights on increasing exit multiples for private equity investments. Highlighting the gap in data-driven strategy, Cox introduces a software tool for strategic planning that focuses on business improvements to positively impact exit multiples. He emphasizes the importance of reducing business risks and enhancing sales processes as key strategies. The discussion also explores the role of leading indicators in driving growth. Breakdown:[00:00] Carl Cox emphasizes the irony of businesses claiming to be data-driven except in strategy and discusses the importance of focusing on strategy to enhance exit multiples.[01:02] Introduction to the Playbook series podcast with Carl Cox, focusing on actionable insights for Private Equity firms and their portfolio companies.[01:52] Carl Cox shares insights on leading strategy over business operations to maximize EBITDA and increase exit multiples by focusing on business rather than in-business activities.[02:48] Examples of strategies to reduce business risks and increase exit multiples, including diversifying customer concentration and building a capable senior team.[04:16] Introduction of a new software tool that Carl Cox describes as the "holy grail" for strategic planning, offering the ability to prioritize and monetize areas of improvement to impact exit multiples directly.[07:06] Discussion on the challenges of choosing what business aspects to work on and how the new software can focus efforts on what will move the needle the most.[10:19] The conversation shifts towards the importance of reducing business risks and improving sales management processes as critical factors in increasing a company's multiple.[12:38] Carl Cox outlines common issues in portfolio companies, such as poor sales management, and suggests focusing on leading indicators to drive significant improvements.[15:05] The concept of leading indicators is explored further with an example from a school district, illustrating how identifying and tracking the right metrics can lead to substantial business growth.[18:19] Discussion on the negotiation process in Private Equity deals and how identifying and addressing risk areas can lead to better exit multiples.[20:28] Carl Cox talks about the need for businesses to have a clear focus on key areas that can increase multiples, emphasizing the importance of sales management and risk reduction.[23:23] The benefits of implementing strategies focused on key leading indicators and ensuring a customer-centric approach to business improvements.[27:50] Carl Cox offers listeners a special opportunity to receive a free signed copy of his book for US-based listeners and mentions where others can find the book online.[32:03] Closing remarks, thanking Carl Cox for his insights into improving exit multiples and the role of strategic planning in value creation.You can connect with Carl Cox on LinkedIn by visiting his LinkedIn Page.Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! In this episode, host Alex Rawlings talks with Javar Avery, President at Sun and Moon Capital. They delve into micro-cap investing's potential and the essential role of operational playbooks. Avery discusses the rationale behind focusing on smaller, often overlooked companies, detailing the importance of detailed due diligence and strategic deal-making. He highlights overcoming key risks, like key man risk, and maintaining owner engagement for success. The episode also touches on Avery's influences and reading recommendations, offering insights into effective strategies for micro-cap investment growth.Breakdown:[00:00] Javar Avery discusses the potential of investing in micro-cap companies and wonders why larger firms aren't more active in this space.[00:15] The focus is on market competition, management, and team evaluation, introducing governance playbooks for strategic guidance.[00:37] Introduction to Javar Avery and Sun and Moon Capital's focus on microcap investing, targeting companies with $1 million to $2 million of EBITDA.[01:07] Exploring the opportunities and challenges in microcap investing, and Avery's emphasis on the use of playbooks for business implementation.[01:37] Avery provides a brief overview of his background, his role at Sun and Moon Capital, and his personal life.[02:59] Discussion on common mistakes in Private Equity and the necessity for having a clear rationale and strategy for deals.[03:26] Avery shares an experience with a deal that lacked rationale and emphasizes the importance of having a structured due diligence process.[04:47] The significance of playbooks in overcoming integration challenges and maintaining structured operations post-acquisition.[06:35] Avery discusses his interest in micro-cap investing, influenced by recognizing the potential value and challenges in smaller businesses.[08:30] Reasons behind choosing micro-cap investing include less competition, potential for significant value addition, and the unique challenges of smaller businesses.[12:46] Details on Sun and Moon Capital's due diligence process, tailored to their investment rationale and focused on commercial, financial, and management evaluations.[15:12] The ECE strategy used by Sun and Moon Capital to provide operational support without running the companies directly.[17:06] Key risk factors in micro-cap investing, such as key man risk and concentration risks, and strategies to mitigate these risks including retaining skin in the game for owners.[19:34] Avery shares his reading interests, emphasizing autobiographies, business insights from books like "Moneyball," and his passion for learning outside his expertise.[23:32] Recommendations for books and influences, highlighting the importance of different perspectives and personal development.[28:14] Contact information for Javar Avery and an invitation for listeners interested in learning more or seeking investment opportunities to reach out.[29:10] Closing remarks, thanking Javar Avery for his insights into micro-cap investing and the critical role of operational playbooks.You can connect with Javar Avery on LinkedIn by visiting his LinkedIn Page.Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! In this episode, host Alex Rawlings talks with James Mackey, the Managing Director of Climate Investment. They discuss the advantages of a focused investment strategy for boosting deal flow and addressing the climate crisis. James highlights the importance of precise investment criteria in attracting impactful projects, especially in hard-to-abate sectors like heavy industry and transportation. He stresses the need for realistic assessments and data-driven decisions to scale investments effectively. The conversation offers key insights for investors aiming to contribute significantly to environmental sustainability through disciplined investment approaches.Breakdown: [00:00] James Mackey discusses deal flow and the selective nature of investments under Climate Investment's focused mandate.[00:17] Highlighting how specific criteria and investment goals can increase deal flow, contrary to the belief it might limit opportunities.[00:43] Shifting to the role of private equity and venture capital in addressing climate change through strategic investments in critical sectors.[01:13] Introduction to James Mackey and his role at Climate Investment[02:12] Mackey outlines his background and Climate Investment's mission for strategic decarbonization investments.[03:07] Detailing Climate Investment's focus on sectors with high carbon footprints and the challenges in attracting necessary capital.[04:07] Emphasizing the scale of impact and the targeted carbon reduction goals of their investments.[05:05] Discussing the Oil and Gas Climate Initiative's evolution and its broader mission beyond the oil and gas sector.[06:02] Exploring the engagement model with LPs and the success of pilot programs and commercial orders for portfolio companies.[06:54] Addressing common mistakes in underestimating execution challenges and the importance of realistic goals.[08:19] The necessity of data-driven approaches and asking critical questions to evaluate investment potential.[09:18] Highlighting the importance of being data-driven in understanding the potential for disruption.[12:08] The challenges in finding investments with significant carbon impact and the stringent selection criteria.[14:33] Example of evaluating a plastics recycling business and its difficulty in meeting carbon impact requirements.[16:28] Discussing Climate Investment's strict investment model, driven by clear focus and robust deal flow.[19:24] On the current capital flow towards climate improvement and the need for more targeted investment in neglected sectors.[22:20] Highlighting the mismatch between capital flow and emission sources, stressing the need for catalytic capital in emerging sectors.[25:13] Discussing investment horizons, compensation models, and incentives for directing capital towards impactful solutions.[26:11] Mackey shares his approach to staying informed through diverse news sources and listening to inspirational podcasts.[28:04] Providing contact information for James Mackey for investment proposals or inquiries.You can connect with James Mackey on LinkedIn by visiting his LinkedIn Page.Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! In this episode, host Alex Rawlings chats with Reuben Munger of Vision Ridge Partners about the intersection of Private Equity and sustainable investments, focusing on the electric transportation revolution. Munger, a pioneer in sustainable real assets, shares insights into transitioning from hedge funds to Private Equity with a sustainability lens, and the impact of electric vehicles and infrastructure on the environment and investment returns. Dive into this engaging discussion on how Vision Ridge Partners is leading the charge in sustainable investments, shaping a greener future through strategic, impactful projects.Breakdown: [00:00] Definition and focus on Vision Ridge Partners’ approach to investing in sustainable real assets.[00:15] Discussion on building and owning charging systems, operating electric fleets, and the firm's role in sustainable investing.[00:43] Insight into the focus on vehicle electrification, niche specialization in private equity, and the broad appeal of narrowing focus.[01:09] Munger shares his journey from the hedge fund industry to private equity focusing on sustainability, managing over $3 billion across various sectors.[01:39] Munger discusses the motivation behind the shift and the value of active ownership and sector-specific knowledge in private equity.[03:02] Discussion on the need for infrastructure and real assets to become more sustainable, focusing on efficiency and lower resource intensity.[04:29] Vision Ridge’s approach to investing in assets with a sustainable edge and the transition from "gray to green."[06:40] How sustainability shapes Vision Ridge's investment strategy and decision-making process.[07:39] Differences in sustainability mindsets between Europe and North America and how it affects investment strategies.[10:05] Discussing unexpected opportunities and challenges in portfolio companies, emphasizing agility and innovation.[11:55] How Vision Ridge’s focused approach has benefited the firm in terms of differentiation, expertise, and deal flow.[16:18] Discussion on electrification in the transportation sector, including commercial vehicles and the impact on sustainability.[21:38] Alex Rawlings mentions Raw Selection's role in private equity executive search and salary surveys.[22:08] Insights into the transition towards electric ferries and the challenges of electrifying longer maritime routes.[23:59] Exploration of competition and collaboration in the electrification of commercial vehicles.[25:55] Munger shares his recommendations for podcasts, books, and resources that inspire him in the field of sustainable investing.[28:51] Closing remarks and how to contact Reuben Munger for further discussion on sustainable real assets and electrification.You can connect with Reuben Munger on LinkedIn by visiting his LinkedIn Page.Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! In this episode, we delve into the world of ESG in infrastructure investment with Gwen Colin, ESG Director at Vauban Infrastructure Partners. Gwen shares insights on the differences between ESG practices in the US and Europe, the challenges of implementing ESG strategies, and the impact of long-term investment on sustainable growth. Discover actionable ESG strategies, learn from Gwen's journey, and explore how to integrate sustainability into your investment approach. Join us for a deep dive into making ESG a pivotal part of your business strategy.Breakdown:[00:00] Introduction to Gwen Colin and the focus on ESG within infrastructure across the US and Europe.[01:04] Gwen shares her background, emphasizing her shift from legal advisor to leading ESG initiatives.[02:04] Discussion on common ESG implementation mistakes and the importance of a long-term perspective in asset management.[04:24] Insights into the governance differences between the US and Europe in ESG practices.[08:39] The rationale behind Vauban's long-term investment strategy and its impact on ESG.[14:24] Successful ESG strategies in portfolio companies, focusing on decarbonization and community impact.[19:58] Gwen's personal influences, recommending "What We Owe Each Other" by Minouche Shafik for broader learning.[22:21] Closing thoughts on the importance of ESG in infrastructure and a thank you to listeners for their continued support.You can connect with Gwen Colin on LinkedIn by visiting her LinkedIn Page.Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! In this episode we dive into the world of ESG with Cornelia Gomez, Global Head of ESG and Sustainability at General Atlantic. Cornelia brings a wealth of experience, sharing how to seamlessly integrate ESG into Private Equity, enhance business growth, and navigate sustainability challenges. Discover actionable ESG strategies that drive value and prepare companies for a sustainable future.  Breakdown: [00:00] Introduction to Cornelia Gomez's background and role at General Atlantic.[00:33] The conversation focuses on the unique challenges of implementing ESG strategies in growth equity firms compared to later-stage companies, emphasizing the importance of tailored approaches for hyper-growth companies.[01:30] Cornelia shares her personal and professional background, underscoring her dedication to leveraging business as a force for addressing global challenges such as modern slavery, rising inequalities, and climate change.[02:25] Insights into Cornelia's career journey, from working on supply chain sustainability in Asia to leading ESG initiatives in the Private Equity sector.[03:55] Discussion on common mistakes made by Private Equity firms and portfolio companies in ESG, particularly the neglect of governance aspects, and strategies to enhance governance practices.[05:22] Cornelia addresses the need for comprehensive governance in ESG initiatives, including board governance quality and oversight on sustainability risks and opportunities.[06:42] Highlighting the gap between executive teams and boards in terms of ESG awareness and training, suggesting a need for more direct communication and education on ESG issues at the board level.[09:52] The conversation shifts to strategies for effectively communicating ESG principles within companies, emphasizing the importance of aligning ESG discussions with executive interests and operational realities.[11:33] Cornelia discusses her learning curve at General Atlantic, the importance of scalable ESG initiatives, and the focus on data-driven approaches to engage portfolio companies in meaningful ESG actions.[18:45] Insights into how General Atlantic integrates ESG considerations throughout the investment lifecycle, from due diligence to exit strategies.[21:22] The strategy of using ESG playbooks and targeted engagement based on company clusters to address specific ESG challenges and opportunities within the portfolio.[24:08] Cornelia shares examples of successful ESG engagements and the importance of coordinated efforts among PE firms, portfolio companies, and co-investors to achieve sustainability goals.[30:45] Discussion on the concept of "gold standard" in ESG implementation, highlighting the need for actionable plans, robust governance, and continuous monitoring of ESG initiatives.[38:02] Cornelia offers personal recommendations for podcasts, music, and activities that inspire her, along with the value she finds in mentoring and interacting with the next generation of leaders.[41:54] The episode concludes with advice on reaching out to Cornelia for further discussion on ESG and other topics.You can connect with Cornelia Gomez on LinkedIn by visiting her LinkedIn Page.Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! This episode provides valuable insights into the mindset and strategies of a successful entrepreneur who has founded and managed multiple businesses. Allan Draper's experiences offer lessons on leadership, the importance of delegation, and the value of aligning with passionate individuals, all crucial for Private Equity investors and portfolio executives aiming for growth and success.Breakdown: [00:00] Introduction to Allan Draper's business portfolio, highlighting his principle of delegation and efficiency.[00:28] Alex Rawlings explains the value Allan brings to the podcast, focusing on insights for PE investors and C-suite executives from a founder outside the PE space.[01:52] Allan provides an overview of his entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing his role in assisting others to build their businesses and wealth.[02:50 Discussion on the challenges and motivations behind starting and running multiple businesses, particularly the love for the startup phase.[03:50] Allan shares his strategy for business growth, focusing on finding passionate people to run the businesses, enabling him to continue creating new ventures.[05:19] The importance of hiring the right people and the difficulty in letting go of control.[06:17] Allan advocates for the principle that 80% done by someone else is better than 100% done by oneself.[08:12] Challenges in hiring executives and Allan's approach to identifying leaders who share his vision and passion.[10:30] Advice for executives on leadership, highlighting transparency, vulnerability, and the importance of taking care of employees.[11:27] Allan's insights on igniting passion and drive within an organization, emphasizing accountability, autonomy, and recognition.[14:18] Allan recounts the journey of scaling Proof Pest Control, from its challenges to achieving significant growth.[17:12] Discussion on the role of acquisitions in scaling the business and the strategic choice between organic growth and acquisitions.[18:39] Building a strong brand and the importance of consistency and faith in business success.[20:34] Allan addresses the biggest challenges faced, including business partnerships and hiring the right personnel.[22:59] Allan's perspective on motivations at work.[27:20] Advice for chief executives on how to exude passion and engage like a business founder.[29:48] Allan shares insights on engaging with PE firms and the importance of personalized and informed approaches.[32:13] The effective strategy forPE firms when approaching potential acquisitions, focusing on understanding and aligning with the seller's vision.[35:58] The significance of ensuring continuity of service and customer care in acquisitions.[37:26] Allan recommends influential books and resources for entrepreneurs and business leaders, including his own content platforms.[39:22] Closing remarks, with Allan extending an offer for free consultations with entrepreneurs and expressing his passion for business mentorship.You can connect with Allan Draper on LinkedIn by visiting his LinkedIn Page: Allan Draper LinkedInThank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! In this episode, Alex Rawlings has an insightful conversation with Maria Pacella, Managing Partner of Pender Ventures. Maria tells us about the critical mistakes made by investors in Private Equity and Venture Capital, the essence of investor discipline, and valuable learnings from her extensive experience in the investment world.Breakdown: [00:00] Introduction to the episode's theme on investor discipline and key mistakes made by investors.[00:51] Maria Pacella's introduction and background, detailing her journey from growing up on Vancouver Island to becoming a managing partner at Pender Ventures.[01:47] Maria discusses her career path from investment banking to venture capital, emphasizing her focus on technology businesses and her role in founding Pender Ventures.[02:45] Discussion on common mistakes by private equity firms and venture capitals, focusing on the lack of discipline in investment decisions.[03:41] Maria elaborates on how lack of discipline can impact fund and portfolio returns, including getting caught up in tech trends and issues with portfolio construction.[04:41] Insight into maintaining discipline in investment decisions, including starting with a strong investment thesis and framework.[05:40] The importance of a team with diverse backgrounds for challenging decisions and maintaining discipline.[06:34] Mistakes observed on the portfolio side, particularly poor capital allocation during the high fundraising period of 2020-2021.[07:23] The consequences of poor capital allocation, including high expectations for business growth and the current challenges faced by startups.[08:22] Mention of Grata partnership and its role in improving proprietary deal flow and data access.[09:22] Differences in investment evaluation between private equity and venture capital, focusing on unit economics and strategic multiples.[10:17] Maria shares insights on identifying revolutionary technologies and markets, and the importance of future-looking scenarios in investment decisions.[11:46] Attributes of successful portfolios, including founders' unfair knowledge and strategic capital allocation.[13:16] Maria reflects on her 23 years of investing experience, highlighting lessons learned and the importance of looking for outliers.[15:40] Discussion on humility, open-mindedness, and the necessity to challenge conventional patterns to find winning investments.[17:07] Maria talks about the discipline required in investment, different backgrounds of successful VCs, and the significance of understanding tech trends.[19:30] Attributes that make a good investor, including discipline, judgment of character, and humility.[21:53] Balancing involvement and support in portfolio companies, emphasizing the role of individual relationships and guidance.[24:15] Maria's influences and recommendations, including the Buffett Munger School of Investing and listening to various podcasts.[26:03] Closing remarks, thanking Maria for her insights, and a reminder to listeners to subscribe to the podcast.To connect with Maria Pacella, you can visit her LinkedIn page.Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! In this insightful episode, host Alex Rawlings engages with Gregory Shepard, a distinguished entrepreneur, co-founder of BOSS Capital Partners, and a Forbes Books author. Shepard shares his remarkable journey from humble beginnings, growing up in a tent and facing challenges due to his neuro divergences, to becoming a serial entrepreneur with 14 liquidity events and multiple awards under his belt.Breakdown:[00:03] Gregory Shepard's Background: Gregory opens up about his challenging upbringing, living in a tent while building their house, and dealing with autism, dyslexia, synesthesia, and savant syndrome. Despite these obstacles, he went on to build and sell 12 companies, winning four Private Equity awards for transactions between $250 million and a billion.[02:05] Entrepreneurial Journey and Achievements: Gregory discusses his role in significant transactions, including the consolidation of eBay enterprise companies, and his efforts to promote diversity in politics. He also highlights his work on Startup Science, a platform based on his research on why start-ups fail, and his upcoming book, "The Startup Lifecycle."[03:32] Investment Philosophy and Private Equity Insights: Gregory shares his unique perspective on investment, emphasizing the importance of understanding both the founder's and the investor's viewpoints. He discusses common mistakes he sees in Private Equity, such as overvaluation and the failure to focus on real business fundamentals.[09:47] BOSS Operating Support System: Shepard explains how his proprietary system and the StartupScience.io platform help educate founders and investors, improving the success rate of start-ups and investment returns.[19:43] Dealing with Neurodivergence: Shepard speaks candidly about the challenges and advantages of his neurodivergence. He views his condition not as a hindrance but as a set of superpowers that have enabled him to see the world differently and achieve success.[27:25] Altruistic Capitalism: Shepard introduces the concept of using capitalism for altruistic outcomes, such as environmental sustainability and inclusion, highlighting the potential for significant impact and profit.[36:18] Closing: Contact information for Gregory and an invitation to engage further with the discussed topics.To connect with Gregory Shepard, you can visit his LinkedIn Page: Gregory Shepard on LinkedIn.Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! In this episode, we discuss ESG strategies with Jennifer Wilson, CEO of Re:Co. We delve into how ESG transcends compliance, becoming a catalyst for innovation, risk management, and increased profitability. Our conversation addresses the critical issue of greenwashing and regulatory scrutiny, underscoring the importance of aligning company values with genuine ESG initiatives.We explore the integral role of ESG in the Private Equity cycle, showcasing success stories where ESG integration has led to operational excellence and customer satisfaction. This episode is not just a talk but a practical guide for embedding sustainable practices into the fabric of business, ensuring not only adherence to ethical standards but also securing a competitive edge in the evolving market landscape. Join us for a blueprint for successful, sustainable investing. Breakdown: [00:03] ESG Integration: Jennifer Wilson of Re:Co outlines how ESG contributes to value creation through five key areas: solving global problems, generating profit, reducing risks, lowering capital costs, and boosting employee engagement.[00:31] ESG Success Factors: Jennifer highlights the significance of fully integrating ESG across portfolio companies without divulging specifics.[00:46] Background: Introduction to Jennifer Wilson, her journey before Re:Co, including her roles in finance, strategy, and sustainability.[01:52] Common ESG Mistakes: The major pitfall of viewing ESG merely as a compliance checklist and the importance of strategic integration.[03:38] Value Creation: Discussion on embedding ESG into the core of value creation processes.[08:25] ESG Evolution: Tracing the shift of ESG from an ancillary concern to a central strategy in private equity, particularly in Europe.[12:12] ESG Metrics Challenges: Addressing the complexity of standardizing ESG metrics and the shift towards more mature sustainability reporting.[17:04] Profit vs. Sustainability: Strategies for balancing profitability with ESG objectives.[18:31] Implementing ESG Strategies: Starting points for firms aiming to introduce or enhance ESG strategies.[22:14] ESG as a Differentiator: How ESG distinguishes firms in the competitive landscape.[30:51] Success Stories: Sharing impactful ESG initiatives and their benefits without specific details.[36:37] Data-Driven Processes: Mention of the partnership with Grata highlighting the role of data in private equity.[38:15] ESG's Future: Predictions on ESG's growing role and its potential for firms committed to sustainable strategies.[50:51] Learning Resources: Recommendations for deepening ESG knowledge, including the Financial Times' Moral Money newsletter and book compilations from The Future In Sound podcast.[53:34] Closing: Contact information for Jennifer and an invitation to engage further with the discussed topics.To connect with Jennifer Wilson, you can visit her LinkedIn Page.Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! This episode dives into the transformative world of employee ownership, focusing on the Employee Stock Ownership Plan and how it can drive employee engagement and productivity. Guest Daniel Goldstein, former CEO of Folience and an advocate for employee ownership, shares insights into integrating ESOP within a private equity model, fostering workplace culture, and exploring partial ownership benefits.Breakdown:[00:00] Introduction: Welcome to the podcast and introduction of Daniel Goldstein.[00:21] Exploring Employee Ownership: Discussion on the benefits of workplace culture improvement and the contrast between U.S. ESOPs and UK EOTs.[01:13] Daniel Goldstein's Background: Overview of Goldstein's career and his approach to employee ownership within the Private Equity model.[02:08] Employee Ownership as a Continuum: Insights into the relationship between family-owned businesses, employee-owned businesses, and Private Equity.[03:33] Advantages of Employee Ownership: Benefits of aligning employee interests with company success.[04:32] Folience's Unique Model: How Folience operates with a fully employee-owned Private Equity model.[05:55] Growth and Diversification Strategy: The strategy behind acquiring businesses and integrating them into the Folience portfolio.[07:50] Tax Efficiency and Ownership Structures: The tax benefits and strategic advantages of employee ownership models.[08:49] Decision Making in an ESOP: Governance and decision-making within an ESOP structure.[11:10] Shared Ownership and Transparency: The role of shared ownership in fostering workplace transparency and collaboration.[13:29] Employee Engagement Without Full Ownership: Strategies to improve engagement without full employee ownership.[14:27] Liquidity Events and Portfolio Company Sales: Effects on employee owners during liquidity events and sales.[18:18] Implementing Partial Employee Ownership: The potential benefits of partial employee ownership.[24:28] The Power of Incentivization: How financial incentives can drive employee productivity.[32:29] The Silver Tsunami: Challenges and opportunities in the generational transfer of wealth and business ownership.[37:16] Contacting Daniel Goldstein: Information for reaching out to Daniel for more discussion on employee ownership.[38:59] Episode Conclusion: Summary and thanks to Daniel Goldstein, with a reminder on how to reach Raw Selection for hiring support.To connect with Daniel Goldstein, you can visit his LinkedIn profile.Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Introducing Josh KoplewiczJosh Koplewicz is the founder and managing partner at Thayer Street Partners, a Private Equity fund focused on a flexible style of investing in growth-stage businesses and financial services companies. Before Thayer Street, Josh was an investor at Goldman Sachs, where he invested across the capital structure in financial services and business services assets and companies.What You Will LearnPartnering with portfolio companiesStructured equity investmentsStrategic investing and management Breakdown:[00:00] - Introduction to the podcast and today's topic.[00:45] - Alex Rawlings introduces the guest, Josh Koplewicz, and outlines his background in finance, particularly his experience with Goldman Sachs and in the Private Equity sector.[02:10] - Josh shares his journey from joining Goldman Sachs to venturing into Private Equity, emphasizing the skills and insights he gained.[04:30] - Discussion on the transition from investment banking to Private Equity, including the challenges and opportunities Josh encountered.[07:15] - Josh delves into the nuances of investing in the services sector, highlighting key considerations for Private Equity investments.[10:00] - The role of market analysis and due diligence in making successful investments, with Josh providing examples from his experience.[12:20] - Strategies for value creation in Private Equity investments, according to Josh's approach and philosophy.[15:40] - The impact of technology and innovation on the services sector and how it influences Private Equity investment strategies.[18:25] - Josh offers advice for individuals looking to enter the Private Equity space, including essential skills and mindset.[20:30] - Closing thoughts from Josh on the future of Private Equity investments in the services sector and potential growth areas.[22:45] - Alex thanks Josh for his insights and wraps up the podcast, inviting listeners to engage with further discussions on social media and podcast platforms.Partnering With Portfolio Management TeamsHow do you partner with portfolio management teams? According to Josh, Partnering with portfolio management teams is not a one-size-fits-all approach. For them, they do a range of engagements with a portfolio company based on the level of ownership. If a company is a minority investor, they are helpful on both a periodic and situational basis. In many cases, they provide standard advice and stewardship and get involved in special projects around business development initiatives, key hires in finance and data analytics, strategic acquisitions, and financing.  Josh shares that in cases where a company has more material ownership, is engaged in a build-up or roll-up strategy, requires many smaller assets, or has customers who are subscribers, their teams are very hands-on. They partner with the company to engage in diligence and structuring and, in some cases, execute strategic MNA on their behalf. The partnership is entirely based on the needs and objectives of the company.How to Contact JoshJosh on LinkedInThayerstreet.com​​Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to alex.rawlings@raw-s

In this episode of The Private Equity Podcast, host Alex Rawlings, treats listeners to a deep dive into the realm of artificial intelligence within the Private Equity sphere. Joining Alex as this week's guest is Glenn Hopper, an expert in digital transformation with extensive experience in deploying AI solutions in Private Equity contexts.Throughout the episode, Alex and Glenn explore how AI is reshaping the landscape of Private Equity, offering new avenues for growth, decision-making, and operational efficiency. Glenn shares his insights into the practical applications of AI, emphasizing the importance of understanding the intricacies behind digital transformation.From leveraging AI algorithms to analyze vast datasets for investment opportunities to optimizing portfolio performance through predictive analytics, Glenn sheds light on the tangible benefits that AI brings to Private Equity firms. He also discusses the challenges and considerations involved in integrating AI technologies into existing workflows, offering valuable advice for firms looking to embark on their digital transformation journey.Listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of how AI is revolutionizing the Private Equity industry, empowering firms to make more informed decisions, mitigate risks, and unlock new sources of value. Whether it's enhancing due diligence processes or identifying emerging market trends, Glenn demonstrates how AI can drive sustainable growth and competitive advantage in today's fast-paced environment.Breakdown:[00:00] - Introduction to the podcast and today's innovative topic, focusing on the intersection of Private Equity, AI, and digital transformation.[00:45] - Alex Rawlings introduces guest Glenn Hopper, detailing his expertise in finance, technology, and his significant contributions to digital transformation within the Private Equity sector.[02:00] - Glenn shares his journey into the world of finance and technology, highlighting the pivotal moments and the expertise he's developed in AI and digital transformation.[04:30] - Exploring the integration of AI in Private Equity, Glenn discusses the initial challenges and the transformative opportunities that AI presents for the industry.[07:15] - Glenn delves into specific examples of digital transformation in Private Equity, emphasizing the importance and impact of AI in analyzing and making investment decisions.[10:00] - The role of data analytics and AI in due diligence processes, with Glenn providing insights from his extensive experience.[12:20] - Strategies for leveraging technology to create value in Private Equity investments, through Glenn's analytical perspective and innovative approaches.[15:40] - Discussion on the broader implications of technological advancements on the services sector and their significance for Private Equity investors.[18:25] - Glenn offers practical advice for professionals aiming to integrate AI and digital transformation strategies within their investment practices.[20:30] - Glenn's forward-looking views on the evolution of AI in Private Equity and the emerging trends that investors should be aware of.[22:45] - Alex Rawlings concludes the podcast by thanking Glenn Hopper for his invaluable insights and encourages listeners to engage with the topic on social media and various podcast platforms.To connect with Glenn Hopper and delve deeper into his expertise in digital transformation and AI in Private Equity, you can visit his LinkedIn profile: Glenn Hopper on LinkedIn

In a compelling episode of The Private Equity Podcast, host Alex Rawlings engages in a insightful conversation with industry veteran Brian Cassady. The focus of this episode is on Brian's exceptional achievement of organically increasing revenue by $50 million and creating an impressive $500 million in EBITDA.Throughout the episode, Brian shares the strategic insights and transformative decisions that fueled this substantial growth. From innovative operational tactics to identifying and capitalizing on market trends, listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of the nuanced approaches that drove this remarkable success story within the Private Equity landscape.Join host Alex Rawlings as he navigates through Brian Cassady's experiences, offering listeners a firsthand account of the challenges, triumphs, and strategic maneuvers that led to such substantial financial gains. This episode serves as a valuable resource for professionals and enthusiasts alike, providing actionable insights and inspiration for those looking to drive organic growth within the Private Equity sector.Connect with Brian Cassady on LinkedIn to stay updated on his industry perspectives: Brian Cassady LinkedIn. For a deep dive into the world of Private Equity and a masterclass on driving organic revenue growth, tune in to this illuminating episode on The Private Equity Podcast.

Introducing Paul BarnhurstPaul Barnhurst (a.k.a. "The FP&A Guy") founded  FP&A Guy, a company that provides FP&A coaching and consulting services. Paul has 12+ years of professional experience across several industries, with a strong background in financial planning, financial modelling, report building, and business partnering. Paul is also a content creator, LinkedIn influencer, and host of "FP&A Today," one of the most popular FP&A podcasts, and is known for his deep understanding of the FP&A software planning space.What You Will LearnStrategies for enhancing the FP&A  processes Integrating Technology in PE Firms What FP&A teams need to improve PE processesBreakdown[00:32] Getting to Know Paul Barnhurst[01:12] One Mistake by PE Firms and action to correct it[02:29] Three things to improve PE firm’s FP&A  process[04:32] How PE firms can improve decision-making around PF&A[07:23] How PE Companies choose and integrate Technology [10:26] Disregarded areas in FP&A that PE need to pay more attention to [13:20] What inspired Paul to set up a podcast and a community[16:17] Paul's Go-To Self-Improvement Resources[17:39] How to become a world champion at Excel[19:49] How to connect with Paul Improving FP&A in Private EquityWhat should PE companies do to improve their FP&A process? According to Paul, FP&A can be broken down into three areas. First, it’s people. The first thing you need to do is to make sure you have the right people, and you are upscaling that. With everything that is coming up with AI, you need people who can meet today’s demands, be commercial, and help drive the business forward. The second thing that the FP&A team needs to think about is the processes. They have to constantly streamline and automate the processes because data and demand are constantly increasing. The third thing that Paul shares is bringing the right technology. Technology serves as an enabler, and it can help PE firms reach the next level. However, according to Paul, if you start with technology, you will almost end up with a failed transformation. So think about the other processes first and then use technology to enable and free up your team to focus on being good business partners.How to Contact PaulPaul on LinkedInThefpandaguy.comThank you for tuning in!To get the latest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Introducing Ted ClarkeTed Clarke is an operator turned into a private equity investor and a shipping clerk turned into a CEO. Starting as a shipping clerk, Ted rose to become President & CEO of Products Research & Chemical Corporation (PRC), a global leader in aircraft and construction sealants and coatings. Today, Ted is a partner at Iron Path Capital, a private equity firm that focuses on specialty industrial investments, partnering with business managers on acquisitions and buying and building growth strategies using private equity capital.What You Will LearnStrategic pitching and selling to Private EquityAcquisition, recapitalization, and integration in PEPublic companies Vs. Private Equity growth strategy Breakdown[00:59] Getting to Know Ted Clarke[02:35] Ted’s experience with acquisition and sales to PE firms[18:02] How to streamline the processes of integration of businesses[26:09] Ted's lessons from Public Companies and PE Firms[34:08] How Ted went from shipping clerk to CEO and writing two books [41:23] Ted's Go-To Self-Improvement Resources[43:44] How to get in touch with Ted[44:15] Ending the showThe Process of IntegrationHow can the CEOs and Senior leaders of portfolio companies and PE enhance the integration process? According to Ted, they have to be intentional not just with the integration process but also with what they are trying to build and the culture they are trying to develop to achieve their goal. Ted's experience in integrating acquisitions is based on the metrics. That is understanding the market you want to be in, the technology, and the characteristics you want to have and making the message simple so that it can permeate down the organization. Ted also shares that as you evaluate the acquisition, you need to put the time and effort into understanding the history of the business, determining the cost and gross synergies, and how you will integrate the acquired business into your culture. Having an open culture with clear and simple approaches to what you are trying to accomplish makes the integration process easy and transparent. It makes it clear very quickly whether or not the business you want to acquire will buy into your culture, and you can make changes early on. How to Contact TedTed on LinkedInTedclarkauthor.comThank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Introducing Jason HendrenJason Hendren is a CEO coach, speaker, and exit planning advisor who guides entrepreneurs in reaching large-scale objectives and planning for an eventual exit. Jason knows firsthand what it's like to grow a profitable business and navigate the selling process. He sold most of his business to private equity and stayed on and ran it as the CEO for a while. After selling it a second time, he bought some complementary businesses and eventually started another business, Hendren Business Advisors, where he helps business owners grow and exit their businesses.What You Will LearnPE professionals' collaboration with management teamsPlanning for a high multiple and profitable exit Founding, growing, and selling a business to private equity Breakdown[01:16] Getting to Know Jason Hendren[03:00] Enhancing PE professional's relationship with management teams.[05:50] Improving CFO’s and C-suite exit strategy [10:22] Value creation and packaging a profitable business [12:00] Things Jason wishes he knew before he sold PE[15:32] Jason's Go-To Self-Improvement Resources[17:26] How to reach out and connect with Jason[17:44] Ending the show PE CFO and C-suite Exit StrategyHow can CFOs and C-Suite improve their exit strategy? Jason shares that hiring the right investment banker is the first step. The worst time spent by an entrepreneur is in training their investment banker about their business and industry. The investment banker should walk in with that investment knowledge. When Jason is working with entrepreneurs, he looks for investment bankers who have sold businesses that look like theirs and are similar in size as much as possible. According to Jason, when you bring an investment banker in, they should be able to tell you about the buyers in the market and give you information you don’t have access to that you can tweak to get a higher multiple.How to Contact JasonJason on LinkedInHendrenba.comThank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Introducing Bill CanadyBill Canady is the CEO of OTC Industrial Technology and Arrowhead Engineered Products, both backed by private equity. Bill has over thirty years of experience as a global business executive in various industries and markets focused on industrial and consumer products and services. As a leader, Bill aligns with key stakeholders to create a clear and compelling vision to rally an organization to drive growth, control costs, and increase profitability. From his experience, Bill has built the Profitable Growth Operating System (PGOS) to help owners and operators worldwide grow their companies profitably.What You Will LearnKey Strategies to make data work for PE firmsHow to be customer-centric and achieve profitable growthTaking command and growing of your companyBreakdown[00:17] Getting to Know Bill Canady[02:59] Common Mistakes by PE Firms and actions to correct them [04:15] How Bill is managing two companies as the CEO[07:07] The processes that have allowed Bill to run successful PE firms[17:57] How to cultivate a customer-centric mindset in PE[24:05] The most profitable sales model for PE firms[26:30] How to leverage data to achieve PE goals [28:30] Bill’s motivation and model for writing multiple books[32:15] Bill’s books and his PGOS model for profitable growth [35:40] Bill’s Go-To Self-Improvement Resources[36:53] How to reach out and connect with Bill How Data Works in Private Equity How does data work in achieving PE goals? According to Bill, the goal of PE firms is to make money and get to the exit as fast as possible.  The way this works is by looking at the maths and identifying where a PE firm is making money. As a company, Bill shares that when they get the data, they start figuring out where to go, and as the CEO, his work is to communicate their mission and goals. The goals are irrefutable, and everyone around the table is committed to them in PE. They know exactly what they must do to get a return that is acceptable to everyone. This means that to make data work, you need three things. First, a CEO who says, “We’re going to follow the data and reorganize ourselves.” Second, the operators running the company have to follow the process. Third, you need a program manager who understands the 80/20, the toolset, and the strategy management process and can act as the trainer or coach within the business. According to Bill, without these three: someone to tell you how to get there, someone to do the work, and someone that says work must be done, the outcome is pretty underwhelming.How to Contact  Bill Paul Bill on LinkedInBillcanady.com/​​Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Introducing Brian ScanlonBrian Scanlon is the managing partner at Deal Gen Partners, a deal-generation service sourcing deals for Private Equity Funds and Strategic Acquirers. Currently, DealGen Partners manages $2.7B in buy-side mandate and has generated over $900M in deal value. DealGen's combination of outreach strategy and network of partners brings private equity and strategic acquirers the perfect targets for their deal criteria. What You Will LearnPE deal origination strategies for top PE fundsPE firm acquisition and mindset playbookMistakes PE founders make when they sell   Breakdown[00:56] Getting to Know Brian Scanlon[01:41] One Mistake PE Firms make and actions to correct it [04:39] Growing a PE equity fund [06:32] What PE should start doing differently in deal origination[09:09] The mindsets of founders of PE firms that want to be acquired[12:35] Questions PE founders don’t ask but want to know [16:26] Overcoming negative bias in PE and opening up for potential sales [17:58] Things Brian Likes and Dislikes about private equity[19:44] Brian’s Go-To Self-Improvement Resources[23:52] Parting Thoughts  The Mindsets of PE Founders What is the mindset of PE founders who want to sell their company? It depends on the industry and how vast the owner is in what the transaction will look like. When we move towards manufacturing, logistics and blue-collar types of businesses, typically, these are business owners who have been building firms for 20-30 years and are looking to exist. They have a different notion of what a transaction would look like than a start-up tech founder who is building something with the intention of selling. According to Brian, they usually see owners move through a progression from thinking about selling to reaching out to friends to see what they sold for and how the transaction looks like to, which is not applicable to their business as every business is different, and they only get 30% of the right information. Some hire valuation funds to see what they think they are worth, and that’s great. They are going to be at the ballpark of the standard deviation of what they are worth, but it’s not the feedback from the people who are going to write them a cheque to acquire the company, which is the most useful feedback. According to Brian, the PE founders' mindset is usually a little hesitant, and the biggest challenge is their expectations vs. true valuation from funds. You can think you’re worth 10 times your bottom-line, but if they are willing to pay you 3, that’s what you are worth.How to Contact BrianBrian on LinkedIndealgenpartners.com​​Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Introducing Charlie ChipchaseCharlie Chipchase is the Managing Director and Head of Europe at Petra Funds Group, a leading fund administration provider to global private equity, venture capital, and private debt funds. Charlie is a seasoned private funds attorney and ESG expert with over 20 years of experience working at a $40+ billion private equity firms and international law firms. What You Will Learn:The growing case for ESG investing in private equityStrong ESG practices for the benefit funds and their investorsThe common ways ESG creates value in private equity Breakdown:[00:00] Introduction[02:40] The Mistakes PE Firms Make with Their Portfolio Companies[04:50] The Role of ESG in Private Equity Investing[07:46] How to Get the Most Out of ESG Data[10:12] Ways to Improve Your ESG Strategy[15:30] Why All PE Firms Should Consider ESG Investing[21:06] What Charlie Likes and Dislikes About Private Equity[23:16] The Humility Aspect of PE Investing [25:32] What Charlie Watches, Reads, and Listens To [28:50] Parting Thoughts The Growing Case For ESG in Private EquityEnvironmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors are rapidly gaining traction in private equity, and for good reason. As society becomes increasingly aware of its environmental and social responsibilities, investors seek ways to align their capital with positive change. And what better way to do that than to go the ESG route? According to Charlie, ESG integration in private equity is not just a moral choice; it's a smart investment strategy. PE firms that recognize the long-term benefits of ESG attract the best talent, raise capital faster, and sell for profitable margins. Companies with strong ESG performance also tend to outperform their peers in the long run. We live in a world where sustainability is paramount. ESG integration in private equity is not just a trend but a win-win strategy, benefiting both investors and society. Links and Resources:Charlie's LinkedInPetra Funds GroupCharlie's Email - [email protected] Watchman's Rattle by Rebecca D. CostaThe Spy and the Traitor: The Greatest Espionage Story of the Cold War by Ben Macintyre Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here. Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].  

Introducing Brendan AndersonBrendan Anderson is the Founder and Managing Partner of ScaleCo Capital, a lower middle market private equity firm focusing on control-oriented leveraged buyouts and growth equity investments in fast-growing companies. Scalable partners with companies to bring operational expertise and strategic resources to scale a business's growth potential and build long-term value. What You Will Learn:Why Speed and Change is the New Superpower in Private EquityHow to Grow and Scale a Profitable Portfolio CompanyThe Benefits of Investing in Small, High Gross Margin Companies Breakdown:[00:00] Introduction[02:15] The Mistakes PE Firms Make with Their Portfolio Companies[04:20] The Sub 5 Million EBITDA Bussines Model[06:46] How Brendan and His Team Drive Value Creation[09:56] The Biggest Benefit of Investing in Small Profitable Companies[11:14] The Most Effective Way to Run a Portfolio Company[12:37] Processes and Systems For Effective Fund Management [14:36] What Brendan Likes and Dislikes About Private Equity[16:20] What Brendan Watches, Reads, and Listens To [17:24] Parting Thoughts Speed and Change: The New Super Power in Private EquitySpeed and change is the new superpower in private equity. According to Brendan, we live in an age where you must execute everything with speed. When you buy a portfolio company, go in as fast as possible, make changes, and start driving value immediately. Most portfolio companies have been operating the same way for decades. And although they might be profitable, their way of doing things is not necessarily the best way to run a business.  Traditionally, many PE firms favored a hands-off approach to managing the operations of portfolio companies. They leave the management teams to run operations and only focus on driving strategic direction. However, times have changed, and nowadays, PE firms hire operational specialists who work collaboratively with management teams to provide additional bandwidth and support. For Brendan, this approach is what accelerates speed and change in the more profitable PE firms.  Links and Resources:Brendan on LinkedInScaleco.comBrendan’s Email: [email protected] Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here. Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].  

Introducing Morty SingerMorty Singer is the Co-Managing Partner at Trout Capital Partners, a private equity firm investing exclusively in the consumer industry. Throughout his career, Morty has been an innovative, sought-after executive in the retail and consumer branches of the fashion industry. He has advised global companies in retail and distribution strategies, operations, and mergers and acquisitions.What You Will Learn:The Power of Great Cultures in Private EquityWhy You Need to Invest in Companies with Solid CulturesThe People Factor in Private EquityBreakdown:[00:00] Introduction[01:50] The Mistakes PE Firms Make with Their Portfolio Companies[03:59] Building the Right Relationships in Private Equity[05:45] Trout Capital’s Main Differentiator[08:04] Why Focus on Culture as a Private Equity Firm[14:31] Building a Great Culture in a Portfolio Company[18:08] How Culture Drives Deal Flow in Private Equity [20:54] Kindness is a Super Power[22:51] Trout Capital’s Focus on the Consumer Bussiness[28:25] Why Trout Capital Launched Their Own Podcast[30:39] What Morty Likes and Dislikes About Private Equity[33:44] What Morty Watches, Reads, and Listens To [35:28] Parting ThoughtsThe Importance of Great Cultures in Private EquityIn the fast-paced world of private equity, where financial deals and high-stakes investments rule the day, one often overlooked yet profoundly influential factor is culture. According to Morty, culture is what makes or breaks successful PE investments. For him, culture is not just a buzzword; it’s the very essence of who they are as a company. The same is true for the portfolio companies you invest in. Investing in companies with great cultures can be far more profitable than investing in companies with bad cultures. By valuing culture and nurturing it within your firm, you can unlock many advantages that will propel your private equity goals to new heights. Morty and Trout Capital follow an approach built on P-E=T, where Positivity minus Ego equals Trust.Links and ResourcesTraubcapitalpartners.comMorty on LinkedInThe Daily Stoic: 366 Meditations on Wisdom, Perseverance, and the Art of Living by Ryan Holiday and Stephen HanselmanThe Obstacle Is the Way: The Timeless Art of Turning Trials into Triumph by Ryan Holiday  Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here. Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].  

Introducing Adam CoffeyAdam Coffey is a CEO, best-selling author, Forbes Business Council member, and an acclaimed international speaker. Over the past 21 years, he has had the honor of serving as President and CEO of three national private equity-backed service companies. Two of which achieved enterprise values of $1B. What You Will Learn:How to build a billion-dollar businessWhat it takes to scale a business successfullyThe common mistakes entrepreneurs make on the road to a billionBreakdown:[00:00] Introduction[02:42] What It Takes to Build a Billion-Dollar Bussiness[05:10] How to Build the Perfect $1000,000 Bussiness[08:35] The 30-20-10 Rule For Entrepreneurial Success[12:26] Why Capital is Not the Biggest Hurdle to Entrepreneurial Success[14:39] Making Strategic Pivots in Your Bussiness[16:47] Two Natural Exit Points For Private Equity[22:39] The Top Challenges of Scaling a Bussiness[30:10] How to Hire the Right Talent Every Time[33:25] How to Integrate New Hires Into the Company Culture [37:00] The Feeling of Achieving a Billion-Dollar Exit[39:20] Parting Thoughts The 3 Most Important Aspects of Scaling a BussinessEvery entrepreneur dreams of one day successfully scaling their business. Unfortunately, scaling is hard. As your business grows in size and scope, it also grows in complexity. The good news is that the scaling challenges your company is facing are not unique to your business. Adam Coffey believes you only need to master these three areas to successfully scale your business to a billion-dollar empire.1. PeopleWe all know that people are the most important asset in an organization. When you start scaling your business, you will need people - and, most importantly, the right people. The mistake most business leaders make is that they hire just because a position is open. To be successful, don’t hire for the company you have today; hire for the skill you’ll need for the company you’ll have in 5 years. 2. Understand What Good Looks LikeYou can only scale a business if you understand what good looks like. Before you buy anything, know what good, average, and best looks like. Otherwise, you’ll fall into the shiny objects syndrome, where everything looks good, and you overlook every flaw.3. Proper IntegrationYou have a system, you’ve hired the right people, and you have customers who love your product. Now, the next thing you should do is integrate everything into a fully functioning system. Proper integration connects people, cultures, and systems so entrepreneurs have everything they need to scale their business.Links and Resources:Adam’s LinkedInAdam’s websiteEmpire Builder: The Road to a Billion by Adam CoffeyThank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here. Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Introducing Carl CoxCarl J. Cox is a Business growth strategy expert, podcast host, and the CEO of 40 Strategy, where he helps CEOs scale with strategic excellence. He is also the author of Lost At CEO: An Entrepreneur's Guide To Strategy. The book reveals a uniquely different approach to strategies that have the power to transform any business that has struggled with stale strategic retreats, failed initiatives, and stalled-out growth. What You Will Learn:The Power of Strategic Planning in Private EquityHow to Design a World-Class Strategic PlanWays to Move From Lagging to Leading IndicatorsBreakdown:[00:00] Introduction[01:50] The Mistakes PE Firms Make with Their Portfolio Companies[02:49] Marrying People, Processes, and Systems in a Firm[04:14] From Lagging Indicators to Leading Indicators[06:47] Indicators That Prove You're Headed in the Right Direction[08:53] Strategies and How Often to Track Your Them[12:10] The Concept of Strategic Accountability[15:29] What a World-Class Strategy Looks Like[19:25] Motivation For Writing the Book[23:30] What Carl Likes and Dislikes About Private Equity[28:57] What Carl Watches, Reads, and Listens To [33:02] Parting Thoughts The Foundations of a Strategic Plan in Private EquityReady to scale your private equity firm the right way? Well, it's very simple. All you need is a world-class strategic plan and the accountability to get it done. According to Carl, all these can be achieved by focusing on only three things:Initiatives that Create Value. As a PE firm, you must focus on the initiatives that create the most value. Highlight all potential strategic initiatives, then rank them according to feasibility, and double down on the ones that have a greater organizational impact. To improve your chances of success, Carl recommends focusing on at most three strategic plans at a time.The Right KPIs. Choose KPIs that are leading indicators, not lagging indicators. Stop focusing on the outcome and instead focus on the behaviors that lead to them. A solid strategic plan should have metrics for behaviors and actions that can be tracked and monitored regularly. Accountability. PE firms should make accountability a core part of their business strategy. Keep your people accountable. Don't take your eye off the ball because people will likely fall back into old habits. As a leader, start by setting clear deadlines, establishing roles, and performing regular check-ins. The more successful PE firms ensure everyone stays on track and feels more accountable for their work.How to Carl CoxCarl's email - [email protected]'s LinkedIn, 40strategy.com, Lost At CEO: An Entrepreneur's Guide To Strategy by Carl J. Cox Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Introducing Matthew GarffMatthew Garff is the Senior Managing Director at Sun Capital Partners, Inc. - a private investment firm focused on investing in middle-market businesses. Sun Capital's portfolio includes approximately 35 businesses across multiple sectors, with over 400 acquisitions since the late '90s. What You Will Learn:Culture as The Key to Success in Private EquityThe Problem with the Low Barrier to Entry in Private EquityPrivate Equity Deal Scarcity Breakdown:[00:00] Introduction[01:40] The Mistakes PE Firms Make with Their Portfolio Companies[02:38] How Sun Capital Measures Company Culture[05:15] The Link Between Great Cultures and PE Success[07:32] Current Trends in Private Equity[11:46] What the Best Firms Do to Create Value in Portfolio Companies[15:53] The Role of PE Firms in Their Portfolio Company's Success[18:35] Deal Team and Portfolio Team Working Together[21:11] What's Driving Deal Scarcity in Private Equity[25:58] Biggest Lessons in Matthew's Career[28:02] What Matthew Likes and Dislikes About Private Equity[29:53] The Low Barrier to Entry in Private Equity[31:30] What Matthew Watches, Reads, and Listens To [25:53] Parting Thoughts How Culture Impacts Private Equity SuccessIs company culture important for making successful PE firms and portfolio companies? According to Matthew, the culture within a company plays an important role in the performance of that company. Companies with great cultures often translate to better returns for investors. Companies with not-so-great cultures rarely get the intended results for their investors. Unfortunately, culture can often be an afterthought in PE. So, how can you build great cultures in your company? It all starts with getting the right people in the right positions. Firms with the right people are more likely to build a great culture. This, in turn, benefits the firm by embracing a forward-thinking approach—which is often a common predictor of financial success. How to Contact Matthew GraffMatthew's LinkedInSuncappart.com​​Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Introducing Pranav GargPranav Garg is the Founder and Head of Product at Peak Margins, a firm focused on helping B2B companies turbo-charge profitable growth. Their analytics solution taps into ERP data to give companies a transformative view of growth and profitability by customer, product, salesperson, channel, territory, and more. What You Will Learn:How to Drive Profitable Growth in Private EquityThe Power of Data in Deal Sourcing and Decision-MakingThe TAU Framework For Profitable Growth in Private Equity Breakdown:[00:00] Introduction[02:28] The Mistakes PE Firms Make with Their Portfolio Companies[05:48] Most PE Firms Don’t Know How They Make Money[09:31] Thinking About Profitable Growth[11:26] Understanding the Drivers of Profitable Growth in PE[14:02] The First Step to Working with Data in PE[17:38] Pranav’s TAU Framework For Profitable Growth[20:12] How to Implement the TAU Framework in PE[23:20] The Advantages of Data-Driven Decision Making[26:26] What Pranav Likes and Dislikes About Private Equity[28:40] What Pranav Watches, Reads, and Listens To [32:24] Parting Thoughts The TAU Framework For Profitable GrowthWhy is data critical in running a profitable PE firm? According to Pranav, firms that don’t use data often go with their gut feelings, intuition, or external pressures to make decisions. The problem with this is an over-reliance on the skills and experience of the team. This means that processes stop being easily repeatable, and outcomes are now sorely reliant on luck. But with the TAU framework, you can change all that.●        T - Transparency: You need to have a single source of truth. Get good enough data that your team stops complaining about just how bad the data is. ●        A - Accountability: The two most important parts of accountability are incentives and tracking. You need to offer incentives to your people to motivate them to do their jobs better. You also need a way to track the actions you take - and this can be as simple as using a spreadsheet.●        U - Urgency: Make your profitability actions urgent. Keep them at the center of everything you do daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly.  How to Contact Matthew GraffEmail on [email protected]’s LinkedIn Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here. Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].  

Introducing Tim FlanneryTim Flannery is the Co-founder & CEO of Passthrough, a company focused on automating the subscription process for private funds. They make it easy to distribute subscription agreements to investors and have them executed electronically. The result is less time spent going back and forth, better compliance, and structured investor data.What You Will Learn:Investing in Your Firm's Brand For Long-Term SuccessAI Use in Private EquityHow to Communicate Effectively with Your InvestorsBreakdown:[00:00] Introduction[01:46] The Mistakes PE Firms Make with Their Portfolio Companies[05:48] Fund Strategies and Proactive Communication[06:45] The Benefits of Investing in Your Firm's Brand[08:40] What Investors Really Want[12:54] Straightforward Ways to Improve Brand Strategy[15:18] Understanding the Fundraising Market[17:07] Advice on Raising Funds[21:22] Lessons From Succesful Fundraising[22:56] What Tim Likes and Dislikes About Private Equity[25:30] How Firms Are Using AI to Raise Capital[25:30] What Tim Watches, Reads, and Listens To [25:53] Parting ThoughtsWhy You Need to Invest In Your Firm's BrandThere is nothing quite as important as your brand when it comes to Private Equity investing. We live in a time when people will talk about you. Their investment decisions will be influenced by what they read about you on the internet and what other investors say about you. According to Tim, investing in your firm's brand is the key to achieving long-term PE success. A strong brand establishes credibility, fosters customer loyalty, and differentiates you from competitors. It's the first impression you make and the lasting memory you leave. In today's crowded market, a distinct brand is a powerful asset for driving profitable growth. By investing in your brand, you're investing in the foundation of your business's identity and ensuring a solid place in the market.How to Contact Tim FlanneryTim on LinkedInPassthrough.comTim's Email: [email protected] you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected]. 

Introducing Amy GrossAmy Gross is the Global Private Equity Practice Leader for Liberty Mutual. She consistently demonstrates her expertise by working directly with clients connecting their firms and portfolio companies across Liberty’s global business. Amy brings the scale of her private equity clients to the forefront, where she educates on private equity and encourages people to bring creative solutions to help them solve their needs.  What You Will Learn How to lower private equity insurance costsInsurance for PE portfolio companiesReasons why PE firms should prioritize insurance coverage Breakdown[00:00] Introducing Amy Gross[01:40] The Mistakes PE Firms Make with Their Portfolio Companies[04:12] Insurance Premiums for PE Portfolio Companies[06:08] Is PE Too Risky For Insurance Firms?[10:35] What PE Firms Can Do to Get the Most Out of the Insurance Industry[13:02] Ways PE Firms Can Reduce Their Insurance Costs[16:15] How to Build Better PE-Insurance Relationships[18:38] What Amy Likes and Dislikes About PE[19:47] What Amy Watches, Reads, and Listens To [20:28] Parting Thoughts How PE Firms Can Lower Their Insurance CostsLowering private equity insurance costs can be challenging, as insurance premiums are typically based on factors such as the nature of the business, its operations, risk profile, and claims history. According to Amy, the biggest thing PE firms can do to reduce their insurance cost is to make themselves a better risk. A better risk involves actively reducing the impact of potential loss by developing plans to eliminate, manage, and limit setbacks as much as possible. All this translates not to just better insurance but better workplace safety, better morale, and basic peace of mind. Amy adds that building great relationships with insurance carriers can sometimes lead to better premiums. Demonstrating loyalty and maintaining a positive track record with an insurer can result in favorable negotiations and potentially lower costs. How to Contact AmyAmy’s email [email protected]’s LinkedIn​​Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].  

Introducing Jon ThompsonJon Thompson is the author of The Dashboard Effect and co-founder & Chief Strategy Officer at Blue Margin, where he helps private equity and mid-market companies quickly convert data into automated dashboards. Their mission is to deliver breakthroughs early and often, and within clients’ timelines and budgets. Jon offers practical steps for business leaders who want to quickly leverage data to improve outcomes. What You Will LearnHow to Apply Data and Analytics in Private EquityWhy Data Intelligence is a Great Differentiator in BusinessWays Data is Slowly Transforming Private Equity Breakdown[00:00] Who is Jon Thompson?[02:00] Common Mistakes by PE Firms and Their Portfolio Companies[04:38] Data Analytics in Private Equity and Why It’s Important[07:24] Successful Data Utilization in PE[10:09] How to Make Data the Main Part of Your Execution Strategy[12:32] Reliable and Scalable Data Architecture[15:18] How to Use Data to Inform Your Decisions[20:00] Using Data Internally to Define Key PE Metrics[22:15] How to Create a Data Utilization Culture[25:55] Improving Data and Analytics in PE[28:57] Jon’s Go-To Self-Improvement Resources[35:25] Parting Thoughts  Successful Data Utilization in Private EquityPrivate equity firms have recognized the immense potential of data utilization in enhancing their investment decision-making processes and driving operational efficiency. By harnessing the power of data analytics, PE firms can uncover valuable insights, identify investment opportunities, and optimize portfolio performance. Successful data utilization in PE involves leveraging various data sources, employing advanced analytics techniques, and fostering a data-driven culture. Rapid growth and the birth of AI have heightened the importance of in-depth data and analytics. To compete, PE firms need high-quality technology solutions to sharpen their insight and streamline their workflows across the entire fund lifecycle. However, data is only as valuable as it is understandable and accessible. According to Jon, without an effective way to manage information, your data can very quickly become “noise.” And in some cases, noise is worse than not having the data at all. How to Contact Jon:Jon’s LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-thompson-37282432/ Jon’s Email: [email protected] Dashboard Effect Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dashboard-effect/id1634065977 The Dashboard Effect: Transform Your Company by Jon Thompson and Brick Thompson Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].  

Introducing Ryan SchlittRyan Schlitt CEO & Co-Founder Aviditi Advisors, a premier, independent alternative advisory firm servicing global alternative investment managers and investors. Ryan has over 20 years of financial experience as a senior management member of the leading private placement/advisory groups at Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette, and Credit Suisse Securities. Before forming Aviditi, he had originated, executed, distributed, and been part of more than 325 capital raises, aggregating more than $480 billion. What You Will LearnThe Private Equity Fundraising ChecklistWhy Small Private Equity Funds Struggle Raising CapitalWhen to Start Worrying About Access to Capital Breakdown[00:00] Who is Ryan Schlitt?[05:10] Common Mistakes by PE Firms and Their Portfolio Companies[07:10] It’s Not When You Start, It’s When You Finish[08:30] How to Prepare for Fundraising Success[14:34] Why Some PE Firms Struggle to Raise Funds [18:07] Ryan Describes the Current Fundraising Climate[22:28] Smaller Funds Struggling to Raise Capital[25:56] Is Capital Moving Away from Private Equity?[29:00] Future Trends in PE[31:45] Ryan’s Go-To Self-Improvement Resources[35:25] Parting Thoughts  Fundraising in Private EquityPrivate equity has been experiencing a robust fundraising environment with increased investor interest and significant capital commitments. According to Ryan, one notable trend has been the rise of larger fund sizes. Some firms have been able to raise increasingly substantial amounts of capital, with mega-funds (those with over $5 billion in commitments) becoming more common. Established private equity firms with proven track records have been particularly successful in attracting capital from investors. However, that is not the case with emerging managers and smaller funds. Investors often prioritize track records and prefer investing in established firms with consistent performance. Although the industry continues to evolve, fundraising success still depends largely on factors such as investment track record, investment strategy, differentiation, and alignment with investor preferences. How to Contact Ryan:Ryan’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-schlitt-889896a/Aviditiadvisors.com​​Ryan’s Email: [email protected] Smartless Podcast: https://www.smartless.com/Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected]. 

Welcome to the Private Equity Podcast Playbook Series. In this series, we'll dive deep into crucial private equity subjects and provide playbooks that you can use to grow your firm or portfolio company.  Introducing Jay GoldmanJay Goldman is the Co-Founder and CEO of Sensei Labs, a Conductor used by the world's top organizations to orchestrate their most critical transformations. Jay and his team enable project management, collaboration, data tracking, and knowledge management that modern organizations need to be successful.  What You Will LearnSources of Value Creation in Private EquityWhat it Means to Create Value in a Portfolio CompanyHow to Create Structure in Your Processes Breakdown[00:00] Introduction[01:40] Value Creation in Private Equity[03:51] What it Means to Create Value in Private Equity[07:02] The First Step to Creating Value in an Asset[09:15] How to Build a Value Creation Team[12:15] Templates for an Effective Value Creation Plan[15:00] How to Orchestrate a Value Creation Process [20:35] Playbooks and the Benefits of Having a Repeatable Checklist [23:43] Why Internal Communication is Crucial For Team Success[26:54] Who Should Be In Charge of Value Creation?[32:20] How to Build Out Checklists and Workflows[35:19] Pros and Cons of Status Reporting[36:55] Parting Thoughts  Value Creation in Private EquityWhat does it mean to create value? If you're looking at it from an enterprise value perspective, you have an asset as part of our portfolio, and paid $10 million for it. Then your goal should be to exit it at a multiple, say 30, 40, or 50 million dollars. This means you'll have to create some enterprise value before exiting that asset. Jay adds that value creation is no longer associated with firing people. Much has changed, and now more PE firms are determined to create value. Today, PE firms are focused on building better businesses by growing their ability to produce revenue, built on acquisitions, geographic expansion, repricing, or new product lines. However, this is not to say that cost reduction is not essential because it will always be a factor in almost every value-creation plan. But it is now less emphasized than it was in the past. How to Contact JayJay on LinkedInSenseilabs.comThe Checklist Manifesto: How to Get Things Right by Atul Gawande ​​Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].   

Introducing David SoppDavid Sopp is the Senior Vice President of Business Development at Simply Beautiful Smiles (SBS), a dental service organization, owned by Sun Capital Partners. He and his team acquire, operate, and offer back-office services to general dentistry practices across the Mid-Atlantic area. They currently have 40 locations across five states. Before joining SBS, he was a private capital investor investing in private equity and sub-debt.What You Will Learn Perspectives from Being an Investor and an Operator Acquiring Businesses at Attractive MultiplesThe Attributes of Top Performing InvestorsBreakdown[0:50] Introducing David Sopp[3:58] What Made David Shift from Investor to Operator [6:43] What David Wishes He Knew as an Investor [8:30] Lessons from Private Equity [10:14] The Mistakes That Most PE Firms are Making[12:24] How to Acquire Business at More Attractive Multiples[15:36] Lessons for Lower-Middle Market Investors [19:27] Three Attributes of a Top Performing Investor[23:24] Advice for Operators, C-Suite Executives, and Portfolio Companies[26:23] What David Watches, Reads, and Listens To [28:20] Where to Reach David[29:01] Parting ThoughtsAcquiring Businesses at More Attractive MultiplesOne way is to know where to look, and that comes with developing one’s own proprietary deal workflow. More firms are considering entrepreneurs they’ve backed before and identifying investment ideas that no one else is pursuing yet. Another way is to use operating resources to create and realize upsides. It’s because there’s often more than meets the eye with businesses. Investors need to look into each element of a business to consider how it can potentially differentiate and diversify the business to generate more equity value. Finally, investors must change their mindset about investing. It isn’t always about financial engineering. Instead, investors should focus on building businesses with world class talent with more efficient systems. Building the exact asset that potential customers are looking for will allow investors to mitigate the prices they’re working with while also creating even more value to the business post-acquisition. 3 Attributes of a Top-Performing Investor?1.     Intellectual curiosityAs the world changes, so do investment strategies. Top-performing investors keep pace with the changing world by remaining curious about what’s new, how it’s going to affect their investments, and what challenges and opportunities are on the way. They need to be passionate about discovering new industries, meeting new people, and developing new skills. 2.     Ability to spot patternsIndustries, no matter how different, will often share similar characteristics. Being able to spot these allows top performing investors to get up to speed on new industries and business models much faster than others. Top investors can leverage the patterns they recognize to scope out a better due diligence process and run sensitivities about how likely negative scenarios are going to happen. As David explains, it also helps top performers spot show-stopping deals: investments with unmanageable risks. These help investors mitigate their risks and identify better opportunities.3.     Confidence Investing involves taking calculated risks and many people challenge investing decisions. Top-performing investors need to have the courage and conviction to articulate support for their investing theses. They need to ensure that their thesis makes sense. Without this ability, as David explains, deals aren’t going to get done.

Welcome to the Private Equity Podcast Playbook Series. In this series, we'll dive deep into crucial private equity subjects and provide playbooks that you can use to grow your firm or portfolio company.  Introducing Nevin RajNevin Raj is the Chief Operating Officer and co-founder of Grata, a B2B search engine for discovering small to middle-market private companies. At Grata, Nevin is responsible for leading business operations, from sales and marketing to customer success and product initiatives. What You Will Learn:How to Develop a Strategic Business Development PlanThe Best Way to Ask for Referrals in Private EquityHow to Play the Long Game with Private Equity Relationships  Breakdown[00:00] Introduction[01:18] Inbound Prospecting and Deal Sourcing[03:11] The Tools Needed for Proactive Business Development[04:39] How to Implement Proactive Business Development [07:30] Ways PE Firms Can Drive Effective Business Development [10:20] Understand that the Best PE Firms Play the Long Game[14:27] Building Relationships Before Process[16:10] How to Start Asking for Referrals[20:50] Ways to Build Relationships with Banking Executives[23:35] Build Better Relationships with Lawyers and Accountants[27:20] Engaging with Other Investors[31:50] The "In Real Life" Strategy[35:20] How the Top PE Firms Manage Relationships[37:40] Parting Thoughts  Proactive Business Development in Private EquityPrivate equity firms are in a tough spot. Competition is fierce, and finding good investments at fair prices is becoming even more challenging. To stay ahead, firms are stepping up their game in deal origination and getting innovative in spotting their next big opportunity. But there is a problem: who should be responsible for ensuring these initiatives work? More and more firms are bringing in business development professionals to fill that role. These folks ensure that the proactive efforts pay off as planned.According to Nevin, business development is proving to be a critical asset to PE funds. Once a firm start proactively building relationships, they should see a noticeable change in actionable deal flow within a few months. How to Contact ChrisNevin's LinkedInNevin's email - [email protected] Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].  

Introducing Bryan GordonBryan Gordon is the Founder of Madison Property Investments, a fund that has overseen the raising and deployment of over $1.1 billion of equity capital - generating an average annual return of over 30%. Bryan boasts over 35 years of experience as a serial entrepreneur, private equity investor, and risk management consultant.  What You Will LearnFocusing on the Upsides Versus Focusing on the DownsidesTeam Culture in PE FirmsThe Value of Human Capital Breakdown[00:45] Getting to Know Bryan Gordon[01:41] Common Mistakes by PE Firms and Their Portfolio Companies[03:56] Why People Are Essential for PE Success[05:20] Important Attributes of a Top Performer[08:10] Advice for PE Firms Looking for Long-Term Investments[11:40] How Bryan and His Team Achieves Yearly 25% Returns[14:05] Things Bryan Likes and Dislikes About Private Equity[18:30] Shifting from a Fund-Based Structure[20:35] Bryan’s Go-To Self-Improvement Resources[22:45] Parting Thoughts  Why People are The Most Important Element in a PE Firm The team element is crucial when finding and closing deals. Gone are the days when machinery and other tangible assets created value in an organization. Today it’s all about teams, execution, and intellectual capital. Your people are responsible for the way organizations transform data and resources into profitable deals to invest in. They bring unique talents and perspectives that can contribute to innovation and creativity within the organization. Bryan explains that when people are engaged and committed to their work, they are more likely to go above and beyond to ensure the organization's success.Overall, people are the lifeblood of an organization. They are the ones who drive its success, bring it to life, and make it thrive. Without people, a firm cannot achieve its goals, deliver its mission, or create a positive impact on its stakeholders. How to Contact BryanMadisonventuresplus.comBryan’s email: [email protected] of Safety: Risk-Averse Value Investing Strategies for the Thoughtful Investor by Seth A. KlarmanThe Art Of War by Sun TzuHarold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson​​Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].   

Introducing Kevin MoyerKevin Moyer is a Partner and Leader of the Transaction Advisory Services at Sax Capital Advisors, a nationally ranked accounting, tax and business advisory firm. He brings over a decade of experience and is responsible for the overall strategy and the delivery of client-related services. His robust knowledge lets him advise clients on financial and operational diligence, finance transformation, and corporate restructuring mandates.  What You Will LearnHow the Top PE Firms Deploy CapitalThe Importance of KPI DashboardingHow to Get the Most Out of Available Data Breakdown[00:00] Who is Kevin Moyer?[01:46] Common Mistakes by PE Firms and Their Portfolio Companies[03:32] How the Best PE Firms Deploy Capital[06:00] Kevin’s Transition From Finance to Private Equity[09:36] How to Gain the Most From Available Data[11:19] Ways to Drive Change in a Portfolio Company[13:25] How to Prepare Your Firm if We Do Have a Recession[15:26] What Kevin Likes and Dislikes About Private Equity[17:32] Kevin’s Go-To Self-Improvement Resources[20:08] Parting Thoughts  Getting the Most Out of Your Data in Private EquityWhen it comes to success in private equity, you need to use data to your advantage. There are data sets that exist within companies that many companies don’t know how to use the data. It gets worse when you realize that even more of these firms don’t know how to structure unstructured data. According to Kevin, the best PE firms know how to use unstructured data as a predictive mechanism going forward. And by doing that, you’re much more dangerous as a firm. It also makes adapting and pivoting before or during a catastrophic event possible.  With debt markets in turmoil, PE deals that dominated business headlines in recent years have gone missing. Yes, all firms are always looking out for new investment opportunities. But the best firms know that their existing portfolio companies are equally important. This is why they have systems to structure unstructured data to better manage their existing portfolio companies and maximize their return on investment faster and more efficiently. How to Contact Kevin:Sax Capital AdvisorsKevin’s email - [email protected]’s phone number: 973-472-6250​​Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected]. 

Introducing Jay GoldmanJay Goldman is the Co-Founder and CEO of Sensei Labs, a Conductor used by the world's top organizations to orchestrate their most critical transformations. Jay and his team enable project management, collaboration, data tracking, and knowledge management that modern organizations need to be successful.What You Will LearnSources of Value Creation in Private EquityThe Accelerated Use of Technology in PE FirmsPeople Strategies and the Future of WorkBreakdown[00:45] Getting to Know Jay Goldman[01:41] Common Mistakes by PE Firms and Their Portfolio Companies[04:46] Value Creation in Private Equity[06:30] What is Portfolio Orchestration?[11:05] The Best Way to Raise Capital in Private Equity[16:00] Play Books to Help Accelerate Value Creation in PE[19:30] Technology Integration in Private Equity[27:17] The Future of Work[35:40] Consequences of Automating Human Labor[39:08] The Real Value of Work and More Engaging Tasks[43:05] Things Jay Likes and Dislikes About Private Equity[46:40] Jay's Go-To Self-Improvement Resources[51:47] Parting ThoughtsValue Creation in Private EquityWhat are some of the challenges and opportunities in private equity regarding value creation? According to Jay, value creation is a term that has been euphemistically used in the past to mean firing people. Of course, this is not what's happening or what it means in the industry today. Much has changed, and now more funds are determined to create value. Today, PE firms are focused on building better businesses by growing their ability to produce revenue, built on acquisitions, geographic expansion, repricing, or new product lines. However, this is not to say that cost reduction is not essential because it will always be a factor in almost every value-creation plan. But it is now less emphasized than it was in the past.How to contact JayJay on LinkedInSenseilabs.comThank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Introducing Jim RothJim Roth is the Founder and CEO of Zamo Capital, Europe’s first specialist investor inimpact, private equity, and venture capital firms. Founded in early 2018, Zamo invests in impact managers, providing capital, expertise, and an established network of investors to help raise new capital. Jim’s ability to identify and develop untapped market opportunities previously led to their co-founding LeapFrog Investments in 2007, a world-leading private equity manager that was ranked by Fortune as one of the top 5 Companies Changing the World. The fund was also endorsed by President Bill Clinton, who observed: “Leapfrog’s team is widely recognized as having opened up a new frontier for alternative investing.”What You Will LearnOpportunities forImpact InvestorsHow Responsible Investing Delivers Superior Financial ReturnsWhy Demand For Impact Investing Is RisingBreakdown[00:45] Getting to Jim Roth[01:37] Common Mistakes by PE Firms and Their Portfolio Companies[02:54] Why Jim Decided to Focus on Impact Investing[04:30] The Rising Demand for Impact Investing[08:24] Jim’s Definition of Impact Investing[10:44] The Type of Impact People Invest In[14:07] How Zamo Helps New Impact Investors Scale[17:52] Lessons From Managing Leapfrog[20:01] The Challenges Jim Faced When Scaling Leapfrog[23:27] How to Attract and Retain Top Talent[26:19] Things Jim Likes and Dislikes About Private Equity[28:39] Jim’s Go To Self Improvement Resources[30:40] Parting Thoughts The Rising Demand For Impact InvestingWhen most people think of investing, they immediately jump to publicly traded stocks or bonds. However, all that is starting to change with more and more people looking for investments that positively impact society. Impact investing is a relatively new approach to investing that aims to generate measurable social and environmental benefits alongside financial returns. It has gained popularity recently as investors increasingly seek to align their investments with their values and contribute to positive change in the world.The rise of impact investing is driven by several factors. First, there is a growing awareness of the pressing social and environmental challenges facing the world, such as climate change, poverty, and inequality. Investors recognize the need to address these challenges and are turning to impact investing as a way to do it. Secondly, and most importantly, impact investing has become more accessible in the mainstream in recent years. The increasing number of impact investing funds has made it easier for investors to find and invest in opportunities that align with their values.How to Contact JimJim’s LinkedInZamocapital.comContact Jim via email:[email protected] you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe oniTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with anyquestions, send an email to [email protected].

Introducing Pari Natarajan Pari Natarajan is the CEO of Zinnov LLC, a leading Management Consulting firm that helps organizations globalize their businesses, tackle organizational challenges & build institutional capability. Pari and his team assist technology companies in improving their engineering efficiency and innovation capabilities through the effective use of globalization. He also works with large enterprises to help them build their internal technology organization and transform them into digital enterprises.What You Will LearnThe Basics of Value Creation in PE DealsWays PE Firms Can Successfully Transition a Business to a SaaS ModelHow AI is Revolutionizing the Private Equity SpaceBreakdown[00:45] Getting to Know Pari Natarajan [01:20] Common Mistakes by PE Firms and Their Portfolio Companies[02:37] Investment Opportunities for PE Firms in 2023[05:03] Steps to Successfully Transitioning to a SaaS Model[06:31] Why the Tech Industry is so Attractive for PE Firms[09:35] Technology Adoption in Private Equity[14:41] AI in Private Equity and What it Means for the Industry[19:17] Understanding the Core Aspects of Value Creation in PE Deals[22:26] Why Growth is Risky Business in Private Equity[24:57] Things Pari Likes and Dislikes About Private Equity[26:50] Pari's Go-To Self-Improvement Resources[27:31] Parting Thoughts Investment Opportunities for PE Firms in 2023Most private equity investors agree that 2022 was an okay year for PE firms. And with inflation and volatility still an issue in this economy, we could still have unique opportunities in 2023. That said, Pari believes PE firms should focus more on industries that provide recurring revenue streams. However, the SaaS model of selling subscription-based products is no guarantee of success. Companies with a concrete SaaS model are valued much higher than companies without a subscription model. Plus, the steep incline in PE firms buying SaaS means competition for well-functioning companies is high. But with proper research, you can still find companies worth investing in, recapitalizing, and outright buying in 2023. AI In Private EquityAI use is hot right now in almost every industry. Private equity is the latest industry to experience an AI takeover as more businesses look to take advantage of the practical applications of AI in business growth. As Pari explains, most PE firms are using AI to improve the state of their workflows and increase efficiency in day-to-day tasks. He highlights that AI in private equity falls into these three major buckets: Deal sourcing: AI can identify potential investment opportunities by analyzing large amounts of data from various sources, including social media, news articles, and industry reports. Automate Manual Processes: Most processes in private equity firms are outdated and inefficient, with many of them manual. PE firms can streamline workflows by using AI to automatically update these processes and facilitate the transfer of data instantaneously with little to no manual intervention.Performance Through Systems of Intelligence. AI can help private equity firms optimize the performance of their portfolio companies by analyzing large amounts of data and identifying opportunities for improvement. How to Contact MatthewPari's LinkedIn :

Introducing Matthew CarrMatthew Carr is the Co-Founder and Head of Research & Technology at Atum Cell - a firm that provides leading-edge cybersecurity software, hardware, and services for companies and government agencies in North America and Europe. He is an award-winning cybersecurity researcher and penetration tester specializing in cyber threat management. He held senior positions in security at IKEA, IBM, and SecureLink, where he built a strong base of real-world experience.What You Will LearnThe Rising Number of Cyber Attacks on Private Equity Best Practices and Why All PE Firms Need to Build a Cybersecurity CultureCommon and Emerging Cyber Threats Currently Plaguing PE Firms Breakdown[00:45] Getting to Know Matthew Carr [02:13] Common Mistakes by PE Firms and Their Portfolio Companies [04:19] Types of Cyber Attacks Targeting PE Firms[07:51] Cybersecurity Threats and Vulnerabilities in Private Equity[11:22] How PE Firms can Build and Implement a Cybersecurity Culture[15:00] Easy Ways to Improve a PE Firm's Cybersecurity[19:26] Take This One Action Step to Protect Yourself Against Cyber Threats[22:45] Reasons Why Cybersecurity Awareness Training is Important[27:15] Matthew's Go-to Self-Improvement Resources[28:52] Parting ThoughtCommon Cybersecurity Attacks in Private Equity Although cybersecurity is a big concern in almost all industries, cyber attacks on PE firms have increased in recent years. Interestingly, the threats are not only a problem for firms with deep pockets but extend even to small upcoming companies. For a PE firm, data breaches can have business-ending consequences. For example, they spook investors, negatively impact valuations, and damage a firm's reputation. According to Matthew, these are some of the most common ways hackers target PE firms.●        Social Engineering - This is the simplest and most common attack in PE right now. Attackers use psychological manipulation to gain access to confidential information or resources.●        Known Vulnerabilities - Expert attackers leverage known vulnerabilities in a system to gain access to a PE firm's data. A typical loophole is outdated systems. Matthew explains that using outdated software presents numerous security vulnerabilities that put your data and business at risk.●        Zero-Day Vectors - Zero-day attacks stem from an operating system or computer software flaw unknown to the software's publisher. The term "Zero-day" is scary because it is unknown, and there is no patch or antivirus for this vulnerability.●        Zero-Click Attacks - These attacks are fully remote and provide access to a victim's data in real time and without any action from the target. Zero-click attacks are dangerous because they can take place without the victim clicking on a malicious website or app.Other Media ReferencesAtomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear The Slight Edge by Jeff OlsonHow to Contact MatthewAtumcell.comMatthew's LinkedIn Matthew's email address - [email protected]

Introduction to StephenStephen Madsen is the Director of Business Development & Capital Markets at Monomoy Capital Partners, a private investment firm with over $2.7 billion in assets under management. Monomoy invests in the equity and debt of manufacturing and distribution businesses that can benefit from operational and financial improvement. Stephen specializes in mergers & acquisitions, deal sourcing, private equity relationship management, and B2B relationship management. What You Will LearnThe Rise in Deal Origination in Private EquityWays to Build a Deal Origination Team From ScratchWhy You Need to Take Notes in Private Equity Breakdown[00:47] Introducing Stephen Madsen[03:48] Biggest Mistakes by PE Firms and Their Portfolio Companies[06:59] Why Deal Origination is Such a Big Thing in Private Equity[09:54] Should You Have a Separate Deal Origination Team?[14:03] Benefits of Building a Standalone Business Development Team[17:10] More Versus Less Information in Deal Origination[21:26] Steps to Forming a Strong Intermediary Relationship [25:13] ROI on a Typical Business Development Relationship[28:40] How to Measure the Success of Your Deal Origination Efforts[33:10] Taking Notes and Why It's Important [35:50] Things That Define a Top Performing Individual [38:17] What Stephen Likes and Dislikes About Private Equity[43:10] Parting Thoughts What is Deal Origination in Private Equity? Deal origination in private equity refers to the process of identifying, sourcing, and evaluating potential investment opportunities in private companies. This typically involves a combination of market research, networking, and outreach to entrepreneurs and business owners. The goal is to find businesses with attractive growth potential, strong management teams, and clear pathways to generating returns for investors. According to Stephen, deal origination is a key component of a private equity firm's investment strategy, as it helps them identify and secure attractive investment opportunities. Why You Need to Have Intermediary Relationships in Private Equity Intermediary relationships in private equity are important because they provide access to a wider pool of investment opportunities. Stephen explains that they also help build a strong network of contacts. Intermediaries often have deep connections within the business community and can help private equity investors identify attractive investment opportunities they may have yet to be aware of. Additionally, these relationships can provide valuable insight into industries, market trends, and other factors that can impact investment decisions. Stephen believes these types of relationships can make or break the chances of a PE firm achieving long-term success.  How to Reach TimStephen's LinkedInMonomoy Capital Partners ​​Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Introducing Chris AyalaChristopher Ayala is the Managing Director of Drum Capital Management, a specialized investment management firm dedicated to deep value, lower middle market investment opportunities, including special situations, turnaround, and restructuring strategies. Chris and his team have invested over $1.3B in an array of direct equity positions, co-investments in operating businesses, and fund investments in high-quality, sector-focused private equity funds. What You Will LearnTips For Effective Communication in Private EquityThe Psychology of Exiting a BusinessBusiness Operations in Private Equity Breakdown[00:45] Getting to Know Chris Ayala[03:50] Why Chris Moved from Business Operations to Private Equity[06:20] Becoming a Better Investor and Closing More Deals[09:36] Things Chris Misses the Most About Operations[12:35] How to Become a Better Leader in PE[16:20] Opportunities in the Building Products Space[20:11] Things Chris Likes and Dislikes About Private Equity[23:46] Chris' Go-To Self-Improvement Resources[25:52] Parting Thoughts  How to Become a Better Leader in Private EquityPrivate equity leaders play a crucial role in their firms' success. According to Chris, effective communication is one of the most important skills a leader can possess in PE. It helps ensure that everyone is aligned with the firm's goals and working together to achieve them. If you're new to a role or an organization, you need to over-communicate from day one. Understand that everybody around you wants to know what's going on. So you need to have an open line of communication. This doesn't mean oversharing because too much information can be overwhelming. But they need to know the firm's performance, strategy, and goals. This will help your team feel more engaged and invested in the firm's success. How to Contact ChrisChris on LinkedInConnect with Chris via email: [email protected] or Text 9176562963​​Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected]. 

Introduction to TimTim O’Reilly is the Founding Chief Financial Officer of Frontier Service Partners and is a well known transformational leader in the sphere of trade and private equity organizations. Tim has served to help organizations set themselves up for long-term growth, becoming a beacon for companies to adapt to their respective markets. Aside from his multiple leadership roles across the industry, Tim also has a background for taking his MBA and Accounting undergrad course at the University of Central Florida. What You Will LearnNew Solutions for Greater Returns to InvestorsHow to Set Your Businesses Long-TermTechnology and Software, as well as Industrial Service-Based Industry Breakdown[00:28] Introduction of Tim[05:28] Mistakes and Solutions in PE[10:31] Insights on Tech and Industrial Service-Based Industries[18:50] Challenged and Success Encountered[28:04] Integration of Multiple Organizations for Long-Term Growth[37:52] Media Influences of Tim[45:33] How to Reach Tim[46:30] Attributes That Make a Top Performer Technology and Industrial Service SectorAs a veteran in the industry, Tim shares his experience working for PE-backed organizations in the technology and industrial service-based industry. The industry is rapidly changing and the dynamics of customers and products often change overtime. Tim elaborates that these changes will not slow down and the companies in the industry need to adapt fast in order to project themselves long term with their partners. The Long Road AheadTim shares his strategy for companies in the tech and industrial service industry. The strategies he mentions are aimed towards setting up the companies for at least 3 to 5 years of growth. These include generating a thesis to market their products and services, getting the right people on board to establish the proper work culture, knowing your customers and partners to have a deeper understanding of the products you are selling, and having that creative mindset that could set you apart from your competitors and attract more investors. Other Media ReferencesPrivate Equity Playbook by Adam CoffeyThe Exit Strategy Playbook by Adam Coffey Seven Habit of Highly Effective People by Stephen CoveyThe First 90 Days by Michael watkinsCapital Gains: Smart Things I learned by Doing Stupid Stuff by Chip Gains Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow  How to Reach TimTim’ LinkedinTim’s FacebookTim’s Email: [email protected] ​​Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Introducing Salvatore M. Buscemi Salvatore M. Buscemi is the CEO and co-founder of Dandrew Partners - a private family investment office that has managed money successfully for almost 20 years by creating multiple portfolios on various cross-asset platforms. Sal is a frequent speaker and guest lecturer on real estate finance at professional symposia. He has written numerous books and articles on real estate and private equity finance in various publications, including Investor's Business Daily and Forbes, and on television shows such as CBS New York and Good Morning LaLa Land. What You Will Learn Ways VC Firms Can Improve Their Portfolio Company's Brand Awareness What to Expect From Silicon Valley Bank's Abrupt Closure How the .001% of People Invest  Breakdown [00:47] Getting to Know Salvatore Buscemi [03:35] Common Mistakes by PE Firms and Their Portfolio Companies [06:25] How to Use Media to Bring Awareness to Your Portfolio Companies [07:42] Only Investing in Companies with Strong Founders [11:30] Recent Successes in Sal's Portfolio [13:30] How to Top .001% Invest [16:30] The Herd Mentality in Silicon Valley [20:46] Why Not All Ideas Get Funded [22:40] Venture Capital in a High-Interest Rate Environment [25:33] VC Firms Focusing More on Quality Companies [28:14] What More Expensive Debt Means For VC Companies [30:40] Advice on How to Make Better Quality Investments [34:54] Things Sal Likes and Dislikes About Private Equity[36:24] Pari's Go-To Self-Improvement Resources [37:25] Parting Thoughts  How the .001% Invest The .001% of people invest differently than the middle class. Anyone making $150,000 a year is in the 1%. Even though they essentially make a lot of money, they typically don't invest like the super wealthy. Why? Because they have a lot of debt, they are wage earners - so they can be fired at a moment's notice. Plus, they look at investing as a way to grow wealth in a short period of time. So, essentially their investment mandate is to get rich quick. In contrast, the top .001% focus on capital preservation and increasing status. You won't find them buying the latest Gucci shoes, but you will find them discussing how to buy a sports team or leave a permanent mark in the world.  Why You Need to Build Better Networks  The people who have the worst investments have the worst networks. If all the people in your network are concentrated in one specific niche, that's a problem. According to Salva, you need to spend a disproportionate amount of time networking. This is the only way you can guarantee a healthy deal flow. Building a strong network of people can lead to new opportunities you may not have had access to otherwise. Your network can connect you with potential clients, employers, and other professionals who can help you grow your business or advance your career.  Whether you're looking for new opportunities, support, different perspectives, learning opportunities, or collaborations, you need a strong network of people. So take the time to invest in networking, meeting new people, attending conferences, and building meaningful relationships with the people in and out of your area of expertise. How to Contact Sal Salvatore's LinkedIn  ,Investinglegacy.com ,Investing Legacy: How the .001% Invest by Salvatore Buscemi 

Introduction to JasonJason Glende is an executive sales professional who’s led multiple commercial organizations to success. Jason came from a background in engineering and decided to take on a career in sales and private equity. He shares his story and how his success in the PE industry flourished since his career shift.  What You Will LearnJason’s Interest in the PE-backed WorldHow to Transition to PE IndustryKeys to Long-Term Success in PEDefining A Good Team Culture Breakdown[00:28] Introduction of Jason[02:00] Mistakes Private Equity Makes and How to Correct[02:40] What Attracted Jason to PE-Backed World [03:56] Advice When Transitioning to PE [06:00] Harnessing Long-Term Success in PE[11:23] Interpretation of a Good Team Culture[14:25] Mistakes and Solutions of Salespeople[18:08] Three Attributes that Make a Top Performer[20:41] Likes and Dislikes About PE[23:08] Media Influences of Jason[26:18] How to Reach Jason Thinking Long TermFor organizations backed by PE, mapping out long-term strategies are the key to success. Strategies to consider include building a good team, listening to customers, having a winning culture, and having a process that increases win rates. Organizations that are covered by these factors are more likely to set themselves up for longer-term success in PE.  The Culture In terms of culture, it’s important that a team has a good and healthy environment in order to achieve your organization’s goals. Culture can be broken down into either the relationship you build with your colleagues, the interactions you have with customers and external companies, or the mindset you have for yourself. Having the empathy to be considerate about the wellness of your organization can create a healthier productive environment on an internal scale. Being humble to competitors and open to customer feedback are ways to project a healthy company to external entities. Having the openness to fail, is one other way to show that you are learning for the future. Other Media ReferencesEmpire of the Summer Moon by S.C. GwyneAtomic Habits by James Clear How to Reach JasonJason’s Linkedin ​​Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].  

Introduction to ChrisChris is the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of L5 Capital Partners. L5 Capital Partners is a business equity firm that invests in consumer businesses. These include, communications, lifestyle, and health. Chris, for the longest time has been in the operations side of organizations, and now he sheds light on how he migrated from ops to the investor side of his career. What You Will LearnConsumer SpaceTransitioning from Operations to InvestorQuality Hiring Process in PEBusiness GrowthTalent Cycles  Breakdown[00:28] Introduction of ChrisEarly days in Corporate finance and worked through telecom [02:30] From Operator to Investor[03:31] Mistakes of PE Firms and Portfolios[04:55] Changes in the Hiring Process[11:14] Focusing on Consumer Space[14:29] Focusing and Defining Stage Growth[19:52] Values in Operator-Led Firms[23:58] Experiences Taken as a CEO[28:54] Preparational Procedures for Promotions[31:03] Three Attributes That Make a Top Performer[33:33] Love and Dislikes About PE[36:40] Other Media Literature[40:55] How to Reach Chris Talent LifecycleA giant factor that affects businesses is the lifecycle of talents that rotate inside the organization. Talents pertained here are the executives level or decision-making roles. Chris emphasizes the importance of the talent lifecycle due to many companies relying on just filling up the seat rather than considering other long term factors. As someone who’s experienced operations to investor, Chris is now well aware of the timeline and essentials candidates will need and bring in order to become an exceptional candidate for roles such as CEO, CFO, COO, etc.  Consumer Space and GrowthIn today’s episode, Chris talks about the consumer space in telecom and how elements such as proper business models, good relationships, and market adaptability enable companies to grow long term. These foundations that can accommodate a long term consumer journey are the key for a healthy business development. It’s not only about being adaptable to the market for the consumers, but also establishing the organization’s structure and see if the internal workflow is healthy as well. Aside from the internal relations, companies should also look out for the externals as well, building business relationships with other companies that could be also potential investors and partners for longer term projects. Other Media ReferencesZora How to Reach ChrisChris’ Email: [email protected]  ​​Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected]. 

Introduction to EricEric Anderson is the Chief Operating Officer of Clearwave Corporation and has been the COO since 2010. Eric’s experience stems from his undergraduate degree in accounting and then an e-commerce program in Stanford. Since his education, he’s worked with startups and Fortune 500 companies. His primary industry work revolves around technology and now healthcareWhat You Will LearnInvesting in HealthcarePE Investment in HealthcareCapital and Company GrowthImportance of Knowledge and ResourcesStandards When Selecting a PE FirmPrivate Equity ExitsBreakdown[00:28] Introduction of Eric[02:37] Mistakes and Actions to Take in PE[06:15] Challenges Encountered by Clearwave Corp.[08:31] Needs in Capital for Growth Acceleration[11:11] Source of Knowledge of Investment [13:24] Acquired by Private Equity[15:06] PE Firm Selection Process[20:40] Advice to PE Executives on Exits[24:39] Eric’s Endurance Post-Exits [28:31] Attributes that Make a Top Performer[31:36] Likes and Dislikes About PE [37:18] Other Media References[40:23] How to Reach Eric Knowledge is PowerWhen it comes to Private Equity, the more you know will benefit your firm and the businesses backed by PE. According to Eric, the knowledge gained in terms of sales, demand, customers, etc., can help firms and businesses craft a game plan that can project long-term revenue-generating outcomes. This information can be extracted from operating partners and consultants. It is also essential to consider partners or consultants that are well-versed in the industry your business is associated with.Private Equity ExitsPrivate equity exits are moves that are not entirely negative as some require this move to redirect the financial strategy or change the revenue dynamics of certain companies. These exits are okay based on law regulations, however, they require a due process in order to have successful and non-impactful outcomes. In order to achieve an exit, companies should need a playbook strategy that depends on the nature of the business goals. It also helps if the companies have an open mind throughout the process and a leader that’s agile which can result in growth changes. Other Media ReferencesMeasure What Matters by John DoerrThe Leadership Sequence by Nick SabanNever Split the Difference, Negotiating as if Your Life Depended on It by Chris Voss and Tahl RazThe Power Law: Venture Capital and the Making of the New Future by Sebastian MallabyHow to Reach EricEric’s Email: [email protected] ​​Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected]. 

Introduction to JohnJohn Gallagher is the CEO of Element SaaS Finance. John has been a finance professional for some time now and has worked in different industries including the private equity sector. He has a track record of working with different equity firms, but mostly building his element finance. What You Will LearnPE Firms: A more customer-centric approach The SAAS (Software) IndustryBuilding Customer RelationshipsFirm Growth ManagementDifferent Types of Venture Debt Breakdown[00:25] Introduction to John[01:29] Mistakes Made in PE and Actions For It[04:04] Focusing on the SAAS Industry[05:45] Investment: Average vs Great SAAS[08:24] Recommendations for Other PE Firms in SAAS [10:20] Facilitating Firm Growth[11:53] About Venture Debt [15:51] Attributes that Make a Top Performer[17:42] Likes and Dislikes of the PE Industry[20:39] Recommendations for SAAS Investment[21:58] Other Media Reference[23:33] How to Connect with JohnStatistical Analysis System Industry The statistical analysis system industry, or SAAS,  is a sector that focuses on data management, advanced analytics, varying types of analysis, business intelligence, and other analytical-based types of work. The target market for SAAS has a wider net as it scales on a global level. Firms would have customers ranging from Australia, and Asia and the base operations can be found in the United States. With SAAS, businesses can really thrive in this industry through organic growth even with little assets they have. With the right strategy and long-term plans such as projection of investments and debt, businesses will have no problems scaling themselves for long-term success.Customer-Centric and Building RelationshipsWhen it comes to the SAAS industry, PE firms that want to back companies should keep an open line of communication with their customers. It is important to build a good standing relationship with them in order to drive long-term partnerships and success trajectories for the firm itself. Although results and outputs are important, having a well-developed business relationship with customers may be able to set up companies for a growth-incline future. Other Media ReferencesBusiness and Sports Individuals who overcame adversaries History particularly in Tech, Finance, and CryptoPodcasts  How to Reach JohnJohn’s website​​Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected]. 

Introduction to MichaelMichael Tang is an experienced chief financial officer, in the Healthcare sector. He has more than 20 years of operational finance experience, particularly in the healthcare arena. He’s worked with PE-backed Fortune 500 companies and non-profit integrated healthcare systems.What You Will LearnBalancing margins of PE-backed firmsThe Healthcare Sector How to Solidify the Healthcare IndustryAcquisitions and MNAsBreakdown[00:28] Introduction to Michael[01:23] Mistakes of PE Firms and How to Correct Them [02:37] Trends in the Healthcare Sector[04:22] Changes in the Industry for Assurance [06:08] Acquisitions Completed by Michael[07:49] Learning Points from Michael[11:22] Acquisition Essentials and Processes [13:43] Errors in Acquisitions and How to Correct Them[15:59] Attributes that Make a Top Performer[17:37] Likes and Dislikes About PE[19:36] Other Literature References[21:43] How to Reach MichaelThe Healthcare Industry The healthcare industry has been developing over the years, especially since the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, the behavioral changes and quality services have been a key focus in the industry. These are now new highlights that companies look out for in order to make sure that the baseline on keeping their performances moves forward. The domino effect of acknowledging mental health to the productivity rate in maintaining quality outputs on a day-to-day basis. Acquisition EssentialsAcquisitions can be tedious work especially for companies that do not process or strategize their plans properly. When it comes to acquisitions, it is important to do due diligence and have proper integration processes. When companies undergo this move, first and foremost is to make sure that you are backed with basic requirements and ensure that all essential documentation and action plans are well thought of in the timeline of the process. Another important item to consider is integration. It’s imperative to know how you will marry the new and existing elements in order to avoid any unnecessary bottlenecks, complaints, and task negligence when conducting an acquisition process. Other Media ReferencesIndustry ArticlesIndustry Updates How to Reach MichaelMichael’s Email: [email protected]’s LinkedIn ​​Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected]. 

Introduction to Alexander:Alexander is a partner at the Sciens Water. Alexander has dedicated his recent work to investing in water infrastructure, through private equity investments. He has worked in multiple sectors such as investment banking, led a start up, and went to business school as well. What You Will LearnThe Water Infrastructure IndustryInvesting in Water InfrastructureFirms Associated with WaterSpecialization and Interdisciplinary Approaches Breakdown:[00:28] Introduction of Alexander [03:22] Opportunities in Water Infrastructure Industry[05:18] Areas of Investment in the Water Industry[08:45] Specialization and Differentiation for Firms [11:15] Decision to Focus on Infrastructure [13:45] Mistakes in PE and How to Solve Them[16:10] Working on a Broader Ecosystem[17:00] Likes and Dislikes of PE[19:22] Entrepreneurial Insights in PE[22:19] PE Human Resource for Performance Enhancement[23:31] Attributes to Make a Top Performer[25:58] Reading References[28:35] How to Reach Alexander The Water InfrastructureAlexander has been heavily focused on the water infrastructure industry, particularly in the United States. He narrates different areas in which private equity firms can take an angle or approach on the industry such as the fragmentation issues and development of infrastructures. His approach and perspective of learning for the sector relies on the recycle and reuse lens of water. Alexander’s dedication to research and investment in water enumerates the interest, the areas of improvement, and the essentials of both resources and finance. Being Well-RoundedWhen it comes to marrying private equity and the water infrastructure, Alexander points out the importance of becoming a well-rounded individual. Defining well-rounded is based on the attitude, work ethics, and flexibility of an individual. It takes a lot of passion and hardwork to be able to comprehend where the sectors can come together despite its niche atmosphere. Reading Materials Books on the following topics:-          Water-          Business-          History How to Reach Alexander:Alexander’s Email: a.loucopoulos@scienscapitalAlexander’s Linkedin  ​​Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected]. 

Introduction to Eric:Eric Stewart is the Interim Chief Commercial Officer of IsoPlexis. He started his career in product and process development and later transitioned to private equity. He’s managed worldwide remits and has done some work in marketing and sales. Eric has also been serving as a board member of the Georgia Tech Business Network. What You Will Learn:Driving ROI for PE-Backed CompaniesSetting Goals with PE-Backed FirmsHow Low-Medium Markets can Utilize PE FirmsPoints to Consider to Drive Effective ProcessesAbout CDMO Breakdown:[00:28]: Introduction of Eric [03:10]: Mistakes of PE Firms[04:43]: Advice for PE-Backed Companies for Revenue Growth[06:45]: Low to Medium Markets’ Essentials[11:26]: Big Takeaways from Private Equity [15:15]: Lookouts in Order to Drive Effective Processes[20:23]: Perspectives in the CDMO Market[24:20]: Three Attributes that Make a Top Performer[27:12]: Likes and Dislikes of Private Equity[33:08] Recommended Reading Materials[37:06]: How to Reach Eric Setting Goals When companies are backed by private equity firms, it’s highly recommended that they establish their goals early on, especially for those in the low to medium market. It’s essential to always make sure that the ROI that a company seeks are covered by elements such as marketing, sales, and reviews.  Utilizing Internal KnowledgeFor companies to gauge effective activity growth, utilizing internal knowledge can serve as the base of foundation to unlock the next levels of productivity. When you have a plateau amount of knowledge, executives should take the opportunity to identify the key areas on where or how they can advance their growth, by doing so, they can tap into the process stage where they can utilize the resources they have, which ranges from office, people, and marketing tools. This enables companies to map out their respective priorities, which will serve them long-term in the growing market. Reading Materials:Adam Coffin - Private Equity PlaybookCan’t Hurt Me by David Goggins The Reason for God by Timothy Keller Podcast:McKinsey Raw Selection Interviews Other Influences:Richard Branson How to Reach Eric: Eric’s Linkedin  ​​Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].  

Introduction to Jeff:Jeff Gonyo is the Managing Director of Geneva Glen Capital and has been associated with the firm since 2008. He is very passionate about the Private Equity Industry and has been in the sector for around 32 years. Jeff’s been on a pursuit to help rising companies generate more value by adding operating executives and domain expertise. What You Will LearnDeal-by-Deal Equity InvestmentsUtilizing the Operating Executive ModelGenerating NetworksHow to Strategize for Proprietary Deal Flows   Breakdown:[00:29] Introduction of Jeff Gonyo[01:57] Mistakes PE Firms Make [03:27] The Deal-By-Deal Process[04:44] Particular Deal Drawbacks [06:28] Deciding on the Areas of Focus[07:58] Operating Executive Model[12:40] Building the Network Connections (Get a teaser here)[18:18] Strategies for Proprietary Deal Flows[20:41] Attributes that Make a Top Executive Performer[23:33] Likes and Dislikes of Private Equity[27:45] Recommended Literature[29:15] How to Reach Jeff Working with FlexibilityJeff’s process in terms of managing firms and companies leans towards the traditional side compared to other firms with experimental standards to fast-track developments. In recent occurrences and with the market of people his firm works with, it’s easier to be flexible and proceed with a more known approach especially if you are already taking on selected areas of expertise on where to invest or where to develop.  Building Your NetworkWhen it comes to PE firms, having the connection of people you work with is essential in order to map out the productivity development flow of any company you are investing in. For Jeff, the connection he has with executives has kept him briefed on the demands of the market and the internals of companies, which helps him connect with a proper consultant, representative, and executive to develop that company. One experience and leadership method could potentially be beneficial for many companies.      Reading Materials How to Stop Worrying and Start Living by Dale Carnegie  How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie    How to Reach Jeff:Reach Jeff through his website at Geneva Glen Capital  ​​Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected]. 

Introducing MattMatt is the Head of Practice for digital and e-commerce as well as strategy at Nimble Gravity. He started at operations, and now over the last 2 decades, he has slowly transitioned to be acquainted with the digital side and now covers the world of e-commerce. He’s been in other digital-related fields such as telecommunications and mobile ad tech space. What You Will Learn-         Decision-making for PE Firms-         Utilizing different tools to analyze e-commerce data trends-         How due diligence can help value creation-         E-commerce essentials, tools, and red flags Breakdown[00:45] Introduction of Matt[01:55] From Operations to PE Consultancy [02:58] Mistakes PE Firms Make for Correction[03:58] Recommendation on Data Trends[06:36] Due Diligence for Value Creation[08:41] Advice for E-Commerce Companies[13:29] Red Flags for E-Commerce [17:39] Areas of Adoption for E-Commerce[21:19] How do Firms Prevent themselves to become an overkill of content[25:59] Likes and Dislikes About Private Equity[27:59] Three Attributes to Become a Top Performer[28:49] Other Resources to Listen to [30:24] Best to Reach Matt The World of E-CommerceIn this new age of business, especially after the height of COVID, e-commerce has significantly risen as one of the essential industries in the world. Firms have now developed themselves to adapt to the e-commerce spectrum. Utilizing resources for tools to analyze market trends for faster-decision making, data of consumer behavior and trends, as well as analyzing means to generate value for the firm and the partners involved. In this new digital age, it is also important to see how social media has now dominated the business world.  E-Commerce EssentialsWhen integrating private equity to the spectrum of e-commerce, it is also similar to adjusting to a new world of business. Doing so, you may also need to heavily invest in quality resources that can keep your firm in demand for consumers and potentially ahead of customers. Essentials include tools that can forecast price changes, flow of specific products within certain locations, generation of content that keeps consumers interested and feel naturally drawn to.  Other Resource Materials:-         Hidden Brain by Shankar Vedantam-         Ten Percent Happier by Dan Harris-         Essentialism by Greg Mckeown-         Good to Great by Jim Collins-         Masters of Scale Podcast How to Reach MattMatt’s LinkedinNimble Gravity Website  ​​Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected]. 

Introduction to Isabella:Isabella Calderon Hoyos is currently the Vice President of Strategy and Transactions at the OMMAX digital solutions company. Prior to joining OMMAX, she spent 9 years in PwC Deutschland, where she worked from senior associate to senior management throughout her stay. She was also an Associate at Roland Berger in Munich, Germany. What You Will LearnDigitalization of PE FirmsPromoting Diversity in Firms and OrganizationsBenefits of Diverse TeamsPart-Time Work inside PE Firms Breakdown:[00:40] Introduction to Isabella[01:59] Mistakes Taken in Private Equity Firms[03:22] Better Results Through Diversity [05:42] Anchoring Diversity within OMMAX[08:00] Benefits through Diverse Teams[12:42] Diversifying the Talent Pool in PE[16:06] Working Part-time in PE[19:16] Promotion of Diversity in PE Organizations[21:32] Likes and Dislikes about the Industry [23:53] Additional Reading References [25:53] How to Connect with Isabella Diversifying the PE FirmsIn this new era of diversity, many companies inside the PE industry are now taking into action to diversify their pool of workforce. The move comes as organizations are now open to recruiting based on skills and capabilities, rather than looking at gender, race, and age. Many findings have proven that diversifying the talent pool has led to positive outcomes inside the industry. Despite a male-dominant sector, talents of different backgrounds are now being discovered and sustained not just as additional workforce but for leadership roles as well. Additional Reading Reference (Authors):-          Jorge Luis Borges-          Gary Garcia Marquez How to Reach Isabella:Isabella’s LinkedinOMMAX Website ​​Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Introduction to Jim:Currently the Chief Financial Officer at Wales-Darby, Jim has been in the financial field for more than 30 years. For the majority of his career, Jim has been involved in the fields of manufacturing, construction, and distribution. He has also worked with public, private, and family-owned businesses.  What You Will LearnPortfolio Companies Acquiring Manufacturing Firms Learning About How Manufacturing WorksDifference between PE Backed Businesses and Family-Owned OrganizationsProcess in the PE Business ProcessDrivers for Industrial BusinessesImplementation of ERP Systems Breakdown:[00:43] Introduction of Jim[02:01] Mistakes Made by Private Equity Firms[02:56] Acquiring Manufacturing Companies[04:14] PE Back Business vs Family-Owned Organizations[06:00] Learning From PE Back Business Process [07:58] Drive Increase for Industrial Business[10:43] Tips for New ERP Implementations [13:12] Likes and Dislikes on the PE Industry[14:46] Known Knowledge Before Entering the Industry [16:04] Reading References of Jim[17:46] Social Links and Conclusion Understanding the IndustryJim takes on the topic on how private equity firms can work around companies in the manufacturing and construction industry. It is important to know the industry that you are absorbing and it should not only be based on the general revenues. PE firms must understand the complexity of income and goods allocation that progresses throughout the manufacturing industry. This will enable them to better understand the industry from a financial point of view. Growth In Other WaysIn order to improve the portfolio lineup, PE firms need to have a better understanding of the companies or lineups they have. This will enable them to properly fix their portfolio in terms of growth and sustainability. Growth and development does not simply rely on the sales portion, there are more ways growth can be measured throughout the financial cycles of each company.  Reading Materials Atomic Habits by James Clear Twelve and a Half by Gary Vaynerchuk  How to Reach Jim:Email: [email protected] Jim’s Linkedin ​​Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected]. 

Introduction to FerdiFounder and CEO of Asset Class, which focuses on the Private Equity and Venture Capital Sector. The company is dedicated to providing softwares for companies to handle the investment lifecycle management process.   What You will LearnIntegration of Software Systems in FirmsImportance of Using Technological Processes in FirmsThe Attitude and Characteristics For the Industry Breakdown[00:41] Introduction of Ferdi[02:06] Mistakes and Solutions for Private Equity Firms [03:35] Low Usage of New Technology[08:20] The LP Experience[11:45] Motivation to Create Multiple Organizations[16:08] Advice for Firms and Individuals Raising Capital[22:00] Attributes to Make A Top Performer[28:13] Likes and Dislikes of PE Industry[31:50] Ferdi’s Influences[35:39] Ferdi’s Resources   Digitization of FirmsWith the rapid development of the global market, private equity and venture capital firms are advised to integrate new softwares that will help their companies adapt. The industry is divided on whether or not to use new technologies or keep the traditional mode of problem solving. This is due to the misunderstanding notion and lack of appreciation firms have towards technological advancements.  Putting Your Best Foot ForwardIn order to gain trust with firms, you must be open to have the right attitude and the openness to learn from the experiences in order to build yourself upwards as a software solution provider in the industry. Ferdi’s exposure to so many technology-based brands and his interest in the private equity industry enabled him to marry his passion to developing Asset Class. Putting yourself out there to learn and develop your product and making yourself larger will come a long way if you ever want to achieve that solution providing service for firms.  ResourcesFerdi’s Linkedin ​​Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Today’s GuestOn this episode, we welcome Alan Goldfarb. Founder and managing partner of Orangewood Partners.What You’ll LearnStructure and ways of working of large equity firms Qualities of smaller firms and their organizational structures Private equity professionals and portfolio executives What makes a top performer in the private equity industryBreakdown[00:24] Introducing Alan [05:00] Common mistakes by PE firms [10:10] Working in large equity forms [14:16] Large and small firms [18:01] C-Suite Model [21:32] Attributes of a top performer [24:39] Likes and Dislikes [30:21] Book Recommendations [34:11] Where to find AlanWorking in larger equity firmsWhen it comes to working in larger equity firms, on the investing side, the management and strategic team is crucial in making the company successful. On the business-building side, Alan puts time and effort in making sure they are doing what’s best for their investors.Organizational structureOrangewood has plenty of strategic partners and this is because not every situation requires the same expertise or partnership to figure out the right leverage to help the company pull. Another reason is that Orangewood is built on the foundation of partnership, therefore implementing a partnership model where everyone enjoys working with each other to succeed.Resources:Orangewood Partners website Alan’s e-mail Alan’s LinkedInThank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Today’s GuestToday’s guest is Joseph F. Coughlin, CEO and founder of CRS Limited.What You’ll LearnLitigation in PE firms Complexity of riskBreakdown[00:22] Introducing Joe [03:34] Common mistakes by PE firms [08:31] What PE firms overlook [12:30] Attributes of a top performer [18:45] Likes and dislikes in the PE industry [22:39] Risk aspect in diverse portfolios [27:28] Joe’s book influences [32:49] Where to find Joe Complexity of risk in diverse portfolios Cyber has taken the world by storm and the hard market we’re in today started almost three years ago while the average hard market that’s gone overtime started decades ago. Because of multiple current events that took place over the past three years, along with the lowest interest rates in history, Joe has experienced multiple complex risks and he sees that the PE industry’s job now is mitigating interest rates, insurance companies, and price increases.Resources:CRS Limited official websiteThank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Today’s GuestOn this episode, we welcome Brad Nathan, founder and president of Toronto-based PE firm Lynx Equity.What You’ll LearnThe buy and hold strategy Returns models Investor relationsBreakdown[00:22] Introducing Brad [02:11] Common mistakes by PE firms [03:35] Buy and Hold Strategy [14:10] Insight on Lynx’s Success [17:13] Adopting a Different Returns Model [21:11] Investor Relations Process [27:12] Lynx’s Humble Approach [31:37] What Makes a Top Performer [35:29] Brad’s Influences [38:01] Where to find BradChallenges in private equityFor Brad, the biggest challenge in private equity is making sure that you have the right management team. Every company has revenue, cost of sale, and all the different aspects that contribute to its growth, but the key ingredient in a company is always the person running it.Secret to Lynx’s SuccessBrad is frank and says that Lynx’s success all came down to ability to raise capital. His tenacity and drive to never give up also contributed to the growth and success of Lynx today. Resources:Brad’s e-mail Brad’s LinkedInThank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Today’s GuestToday’s guest is Rami Cassis, founder of Parabellum Investments based in London.What You’ll LearnDiversification in PE High growth and high-risk sectors Current economic climateBreakdown[00:22] Introducing Rami [02:41] Common mistakes by PE firms [05:57] Diversity and diversification in PE [08:32] Rami’s buy and sell PE model [12:31] High growth and high potential sectors [17:23] Economic climate of at-risk sectors [19:45] What makes a top performer [25:37] What Rami likes and dislikes about PE [31:27] Rami’s influences [35:02] Where to find Rami Diversity in PEThe level of engagement between management teams and its private equity owners tends to be one-dimensional, limited only to board reporting and financial performance as the key metrics driving the nature of engagement between private equity and management teams. Rami thinks there should be more than that and diversity, such as having HR or Marketing in meetings, brings with it a more rounded and representative view of life than what is typically the case today.High-growth sectorsGrowth comes from two drivers, which is government spending or legislation, or consumer spending and Rami is seeing that people will invest in their health and wellness in the years to come. Hence, the three high-growth sectors now are pharma and life sciences, luxury, and financial services.Resources:Rami’s Twitter Rami’s LinkedInThank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Nick Antoine is the Co-Founder, Co-CEO and Managing Partner at Red Arts Capital, where he leads fundraising, research and thesis development. Before forming Red Arts in 2015, Nick served as Special Assistant to the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Ariel Investments, a $13 billion asset management firm. What You’ll Learn:Deal flow processes within a narrow nicheHow PE firms can differentiate themselves in a crowded marketUnderstanding competitive edge in private equityHow PE firms strike deals in the supply chain and logistics space Breakdown[00:50] Getting to Know Nick Antoine [01:36] Common Mistakes by PE Firms and Their Portfolio Companies [02:50] How Red Arts Capital Stands Out in the Marketplace[04:10] Why Red Arts Capital Settled on Supply Chain and Logistics[07:52] Deal Flow and the Benefits of Niching Down[11:30] Trends in the PE Space Post Pandemic[14:45] Nick’s Super Fast Career Progression[15:42] Nick’s Go-to Self-Improvement Resources[17:55] Key Attributes of a Top-Performing Individual[18:56] Parting ThoughtsResources:RedArtsCapital.comNick’s LinkedInThe Psychology of Money by Morgan HouselWhy Should White Guys Have All the Fun? By Reginald F. Lewis Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Introduction of Jeff GendelJeff Gendel is the Principal for Business Development at Gen II Fund Services, LLC, a private equity fund administrator that caters to $850B+ of private capital. Jeff oversees the firm, which offers a unique platform of resources that enables clients to manage their operational infrastructure, financial reporting and investor communications. What You Will LearnThe significance of the Operational Team in PE firmsPerception of Fundraising and Human CapitalChallenges on Reporting DemandsTrends and Areas Under ScrutinyScaling of PE Firms Post-COVID Breakdown[00:48] Getting to Know Jeff Gendel [03:11] Common mistakes of PEP firms and solutions[06:40] Trends and challenges PEP firms face  [08:42] Perception of fundraising[12:42] Thoughts on human capital[14:17] CFOs and operational teams in PEP firms [18:04] Pain Points for PEs on reporting demands[21:48] Trends and areas under scrutiny[25:14] Challenges that impact PE firms to scale[27:48] PE’s ability to scale post-COVID[30:58] Likes and dislikes about PE[33:08] How to get in touch with Jeff The Operational SideJeff Gendel sits down with Alex to discuss the importance of the operational side of PE firms in the industry. He highlights how the team that operates behind the scenes should be valued and is very important, especially for it to reflect the performance of the firm. Many firms are now conducting risk analysis as a solution to address certain output issues, and he identifies operational risk analysis as one key factor. Adding emphasis to talent acquisition for the operational management team, Jeff mentions that even recruitment of talents becomes a competitive struggle for firms, as they all attempt to get the best set of teams for their operations. Retention is also another item he brings up as it is inevitable that people will come in and go from firms, and the firm’s ability to keep the exceptional talent they have on hand is something that needs to be valued.  Key Information to ScaleJeff also cites the importance of information that circulates a firm. On top of having the right operational team, they also are in charge of giving the firm the necessary information needed for the firm to adapt to the fast-paced environment. He mentions that information gained by the firm such as returns, ability to attract capital, and the performance difference from competitors will help the operational team materialize the strategy they need to generate the next steps and objectives the firm will have to go for. With this, firms are able to scale their performance and goals accordingly and bring positive outputs to clients and investors. Despite the COVID pandemic, the PE industry is very adaptable. Having a team that can help a firm manoeuvre through the economic environment with the right information will help the organization on a macro-level.  ResourcesJeff Gendel’s LinkedinGen II Website

Ewan Mackinnon is a Partner for Maven Capital Partners, a VCT, Private Equity and Property Fund Manager that provides funding to growth-focused UK SMEs and tax-efficient investment opportunities for investors What You will LearnHow to correct common mistakes made by PE firms and portfolio companiesHow Maven Capital Partners drive value creationHow the UK CPT works for MavenEducational resources for industry awareness Breakdown[00:51] Getting to know Ewan Mackinnon[04:13] One mistake PE firms or portfolio companies and actions to correct them[07:47] Model to drive value creation and new expertise into portfolio companies[09:16] Inspiration to move into PE[11:28] Challenges faced in business completion due to outside London set up[13:31] How UK’s Venture Capital Trust Model works with Maven Capital Partners[16:14] Likes and Dislikes of the PE industry [20:47] Educational resources for the industry to check [24:17] Deal Flow for Maven Capital Partners[25:19] How to get in touch with Ewan Mackinnon[26:18] Side discussion with Ewan [Resources] Ewan Mackinnon’s EmailEwan MAckinnon’s Linkedin  ​​Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Paul Doyle is the Managing Partner at Blackford Capital, a Private Equity firm in Grand Rapids, Michigan, which makes majority control investments in founder and family-owned, lower middle market manufacturing, industrial and distribution companies.  What You Will LearnProcess PE firms can adopt to achieve specific objectives Internal relations to build morale and improve working environments Literatures on proper leadership and management Other resource materials utilized for industry information Breakdown[00:40] Introduction of Paul Doyle[06:06] On mistake in PE firms/Portfolio Companies and how to correct it[12:54] Top 4 book recommendation on leadership[21:34] Recommendations for Portfolio Leaders in the Private Equity Industry[29:39] 3 Attributes that make a top performer[35:17] What do you love and dislike about the PE industry [40:43] Any other books or areas of information to be recommended ResourcesPaul Doyle’s LinkedinThank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Nevin Raj is the Chief Operating Officer and Co-Founder of Grata, a B2B search engine for discovering small to middle-market private companies. At Grata, Nevin is responsible for leading operations of the business, from sales and marketing to customer success and product initiatives. What You'll Learn:How PE firms are preparing for the impending recessionPredictions for Private Equity investing 2022 and beyondKey identifiers for an impending recessionHow PE investment strategies have evolved over the years Breakdown[01:15] The Highly Discussed Impending Recession[03:23] Supply and Demand and How They Contribute to Recessions Occurring[04:30] The Low Interest-Rate Environment[05:59] Thesis Driven Investing in Private Equity[10:05] Opportunities For PE Firms In case of a Recession[14:45] What to Expect From Private Equity Ten Years From Now[18:27] Parting ThoughtsResources:Nevin's LinkedInGrata.com Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Today we welcome Matthew Frankel, the Managing Partner at Levine Leichtman Capital Partners (LLCP). Over the course of four decades, LLCP has differentiated itself through its successful structured private equity investment strategy across the United States and Europe. What You’ll LearnStructured private equity investmentsEquity ownership of management teamsHow LLCP expanded globallyRelationship building between investor and portfolio companies Breakdown[00:48] Getting to know Matthew Frankel [02:11] Common mistake by PE firms and portfolio companies [06:23] Pros and cons of structured private equity investing [12:22] Challenges as managing partner[17:23] Bridging cultural gaps[20:32] Alignment of interests and goals [24:06] Current trends within the PE industry[25:53] Matthew’s learning resourcesResourcesMatthew’s LinkedInLLCP’s E-mailLLCP’s Website Thank you for tuning in! To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Krista Morgan is the General Partner at Stage, a majority female-led private equity fund focused on acquiring controlling interests in companies undergoing a change in capital structure, strategy, operations, or growth. What You'll LearnHow VC firms take over firms and lead them to growthWhat it's like to work in a female-led investment firmWhy most start-ups failThe publicity and business that comes with winning awards Breakdown[00:50] Getting to Know Krista Morgan[03:05] Common Mistakes by PE Firms and Portfolio Companies[04:30] There's Always Room For Venture Capital Investing[06:40] Characteristics of a Start-up Doomed to Fail[09:18] Success Rates and Common Challenges in Most Startups[13:10] How Krista and Her Team Take Over and Scale a Business[17:04] Women in Leadership Positions in the Venture Capital Space[20:47] The Benefits of Winning Awards in Business[ 24:58] Key Attributes of a Top Performing Individual[29:26] What Krista Likes and Dislikes About Being an Investor[31:51] Krista's Go-To Information Resources[33:01] Parting Thoughts Resources:Krista’s LinkedIn Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Today we welcome Steffen Pauls, who is the Founder, CEO, and Chairman of Moonfare. Previously, Steffen was KKR's Managing Director and Country Head in Germany. At present, Moonfare is an award-winning digital platform that enables individuals to invest in top-tier private equity funds. What You’ll LearnChanges in the PE industry mindset over the yearsSteffen's time at KKRHow Moonfare makes individual investing possibleMoonfare's due diligence process Breakdown[01:00] Getting to know Steffen Pauls [03:12] Common mistake by PE firms and portfolio companies [06:49] Working for KKR [11:06] Create best returns in private equity [14:53] Individual investing with Moonfare [23:05] Is Moonfare regulated? [25:54] How Moonfare chooses funds [29:54] Notable attributes of a top-performer [33:54] Private equity: the good and the badResourcesSteffen’s LinkedInSteffen’s E-mailMoonfare Website Thank you for tuning in! To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Today we welcome Andrea Petrone who is a strategic advisor to C-level executives. Having been a senior executive himself, Andrea brings his experience and expertise to help leaders become more effective. He also shares his insights on his podcast, “The World Class Leaders Show”What You’ll LearnHow to assess leadersThe traits all CEOs should haveTalent selection tools and tipsBuilding trust between teams after acquisition Breakdown[00:54] Getting to know Andrea Petrone[02:29] Common mistake by PE firms and portfolio companies[08:30] The PXT Select Assessment[10:11] Why emotional intelligence matters[12:08] Culture fit, trust, and teamwork[18:21] Cross pollination between PE portfolio companies[21:11] Notable attributes of a top-performer[24:43] Private equity: the good and the bad[26:27] Andrea’s learning resources[29:56] Unlock your intrinsic motivationResourcesAndrea’s LinkedInAndrea’s Website Thank you for tuning in! To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

On this episode, we welcome Nevin Raj, Co-Founder and COO of Grata.What You’ll LearnDriving the pipeline of proprietary deal flow Investment trends and opportunities Venture funding Grata’s success What makes a top performerBreakdown[00:45] Introducing Nevin [02:04] Common mistakes by PE firms [05:50] What PE firms should do to drive pipeline of proprietary deal flow [07:56] Investment trends and opportunities [10:19] The funding route and venture funding  [13:53] Grata’s success  [16:30] Attributes that make a top performer [19:12] What Nevin loves and dislikes about the PE industry [20:36] Nevin’s influences [24:00] Where to find Nevin Resources:Nevin's E-mailGrata's websiteThank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Todd Cipperman is the founding principal of Cipperman Compliance Services. They help advisers, broker-dealers, and funds protect their franchises against regulatory risk through the development, implementation, and operation of customized compliance programs. What You’ll Learn:How PE firms can stay on top of compliance challengesLooming compliance regulations around the worldThe compliance burden plaguing private equityProtection against the questionable actions from portfolio companies Breakdown[00:50] Getting to Know Todd Cipperman[02:44] Common Mistakes by PE Firms and Portfolio Companies[04:55] Compliance and Minimizing Risks[06:57] Regulatory Compliance for Private Equity Firms[12:30] Are Regulatory Authorities Serious About Compliance Regulations?[16:05] What to Expect from Regulatory Changes Going Forward[20:40] Regulations and How They Impact Costs of Doing Business[21:38] Key Defining Characteristics of a Top-Performing Individual[26:01] What Todd Likes and Dislikes About Private Equity[28:50] Todd’s Go-To Information Resources[33:12] Parting ThoughtsResources:Cipperman.comTodd’s LinkedIn Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Trevor Ewen is the CEO of Southport Technology Group and the Managing Partner at Southport Ventures, an acquisition fund focused on buying profitable, mission-critical, B2B SaaS businesses. What You'll Learn:Why Private Equity is Buying Up Software CompaniesWhy Private Equity Demands A Lot of Patience How the Top PE Firms Avoid Bidding WarsInsights Into The Lucrative SaaS Business Model Breakdown[00:45] Getting to Know Trevor Ewen[02:09] Common Mistakes by PE Firms and Portfolio Companies[06:17] Private Equity Firms Keeping Up with Data Analytics[07:50] Trevor's Transition From the Software Space Into Private Equity[10:27] Private Equity's Growing Appetite For Tech[12:17] Characteristics of a Good PE Investment Opportunity[18:30] What Trevor Likes and Dislikes About Private Equity[20:47] Competition in the Private Equity Space[23:54] Parting Thoughts Resources:Trevor’s LinkedInPrivate Equity | Southport Technology GroupTrevor’s Email - [email protected] Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Teresa Farmaki is the Managing Partner & Co-Founder at Astarte Capital Partners, an asset management firm focused on sustainable real asset sectors. She is also the former Managing Director at Signia Wealth Limited. What You’ll Learn:What are Real Assets and How Can You Invest In ThemWhy PE Experts Need to Start Thinking Outside the BoxHow to Tackle Investment Decisions From a Practical PerspectiveWhy Diversity is Crucial for Investment SuccessWomen Empowerment in Private Equity Breakdown[00:50] Getting to Know Teresa Farmaki [02:20] Why Teresa Moved From New York to London[03:38] Common Mistakes by PE Firms and Portfolio Companies[06:24] Real Assets Investing in Private Equity [12:10] The Friction Between Operations Experts and Financial Investors[15:40] Diversity and Inclusion in private Equity[20:29] Why Most Women are Afraid of Joining Private Equity[25:16] Key Attributes that Define a Top Performer[29:00] Why The Top Performing PE Experts are Critical Thinkers[33:28] What Teresa Likes and Dislikes About Private Equity[35:30] Parting ThoughtsResources:Teresa’s LinkedInAstartecp.comTeresa’s Email - [email protected] Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

In this episode, we welcome Jun Hong Heng, the Founder and Chief Investment Officer of Crescent Cove Advisors, LP, a technology investment firm focused on working with founders and management teams to build the iconic companies of tomorrow. He is also the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of COVA Acquisition Corp.  What You'll LearnTrends shaping the future of autotechWhy autotech startups are hot targets for private equity firmsHow the top private equity firms attract the best talentBoard members and how they influence private equity successHow to invest in the top private equity firms Breakdown[00:50] Getting to Know Jun Hong Heng [01:39] Common Mistakes by PE Firms and Portfolio Companies[04:25] Why Jun Settled on the Technology, Media, and Telecom Sector[07:40] The Current Hot Markets in the Autotech Space[11:08] Why Jun and His Firm Invested in the Luminar Software[14:00] Insights Into How Jun Grew His Company[17:05] How to Interview, Hire, and Retain Top Talents[18:10] Why Jun Moved From Singapore to the US[19:49] Key Attributes that Define a Top Performer[22:10] The Work from Home Concept in Private Equity[24:10] What Jun Likes and Dislikes About Private Equity[25:45] Jun's self-investment Practices [28:05] Parting Thoughts Resources:Jun's LinkedInCrescent Cove Advisors Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected]. 

Today’s GuestToday we welcome Sean Mooney founder and CEO of BluWave. Sean has worked in the private equity industry for more than 20 years. He was a partner at SFW Capital Partners and has served on the board of directors of several companies.  Now at BluWave, his passion lies in connecting private equity funds with expert service providers to help businesses succeed.  What You’ll LearnA veteran PE investor’s insights about the industryOrigins of BluWave and how their service works Better communication between PE firms and portfolio companiesHow to screen and choose service providers Breakdown[00:45] Getting to know Sean Mooney[04:20] Common mistake by PE firms and portfolio companies[08:54] What Sean misses about private equity[11:24] How can PE investors better connect with portfolio companies? [14:36] The founding story of BluWave[19:58] Choosing excellent service providers[24:53] Notable attributes of a top-performer[26:23] Private equity: the good and the bad[29:14] Sean’s learning resourcesResourcesSean’s LinkedInBluWave Website Thank you for tuning in! To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Today's GuestIn this episode, we welcome Jimmy Vaiopoulos, the Chief Financial Officer at Stack Capital, an investment holdings company that makes it possible for any investor to participate in the growth of some of the world's most innovative private businesses. What You'll LearnHow to invest without being an accredited investorPrivate Equity investing for all types of investorsThe primary building blocks of a successful PE firmWhat most PE firms should improve onThe definition of a non-accredited investor Breakdown[00:45] Getting to Know Jimmy Vaiopoulos[03:16] Common Mistakes by PE Firms and Portfolio Companies[04:25] How Standard Non-accredited Investors can Invest in Private Equity[06:37] Pushbacks and Drawbacks of Non-accredited Investors in PE[08:00] The Private Equity Fund Structure [10:20] Practical Elements of a Private Equity Fund[12:30] Why Jimmy Settled on Private Equity[14:00] Challenges Plaguing Jimmy's Company Stack Capital[15:35] Key Attributes that Define a Top Performer[16:55] Jimmy's Advice to His 20-Year-Old Self[18:00] What Jimmy Likes and Dislikes About Private Equity[19:38] Jimmy's Self-investment Practices [21:50] Parting Thoughts  Resources:Jimmy's LinkedInStack Capital [email protected] Thank you for tuning in! To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Today’s GuestOn this episode, we welcome Mario Nigro, Partner at Stikeman Elliott LLP, and Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP.What You’ll LearnWhat PE firms should improve onMost impressive M&A ProcessesProprietary Base VS M&A Advisor and Investment BankerHow to be a top performerDiversity in private equity firmsBreakdown[00:28] Introducing Mario [01:43] Common mistakes by PE firms [05:54] What PE Firms Should Improve On  [09:17] Impressive M&A Processes [13:15] Deals Between Proprietary Base VS M&A Advisors and Investment Banks [19:11] Attributes that Make a Top Performer [24:52] Diversity in Age [28:30] What Mario Likes and Dislikes about Private Equity [34:44] Where to Reach MarioResources:Mario's Contact DetailsViews From the Market PodcastThank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Today we welcome Dr. Ola Brown, founder of Flying Doctors Healthcare Investment Company, a healthcare investment firm focused on investing in healthcare service companies in Africa.    What You’ll LearnHow Dr. Ola got into the financial investments industryFinTech in InvestingEnsuring successful investmentsResults and improvements made from investing in healthcare servicesBreakdown[00:49] Introducing Dr. Ola [01:18] Common mistakes by PE firms and portfolio companies [03:28] Transition from Doctor to Investor [07:36] How FinTech Plays into Investing [11:00] How Dr. Ola Ensures Investments are Successful [17:17] Results from Investments in Healthcare [22:37] How to Reach Out to Dr. OlaResources:Dr. Ola's TwitterDr. Ola's LinkedInDr. Ola's E-mailThank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Today we welcome Kevin Flick who is ISC Manufacturing’s Chief Financial Officer. He has acquired and transformed 4 PE-backed companies and has led 3 successful IPOs. Kevin’s broad perspective has allowed him to grow businesses and teams, having been a vice president, due diligence advisor, board member, financial analyst, and investment analyst earlier in his career. What You’ll LearnOpen communication in PE backed companiesPrivate VS Public EquityHow Canacol Energy became the leading natural gas supplier in ColombiaTips for a successful IPO Breakdown[00:45] Getting to know Kevin Flick[05:22] Common mistake by PE firms and portfolio companies[10:11] Difference between private and public equity[11:54] Kevin as VP of Finance at Canacol Energy[17:20] Advice for companies who want to go public[19:21] Notable attributes of a top-performer[20:54] Private equity: the good and the bad[22:26] Kevin’s learning resources[25:06] Kevin’s advice to his 20-year-old selfResourcesKevin’s LinkedInKevin’s EmailKevin’s Mobile Number: +1 214 235 4798 Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected]. 

Today’s GuestToday we welcome Alexander Leigh, who is the Senior Investment Executive at the Development Bank of Wales. He has an extensive background in tech investing, having closed 23 deals for both venture capital and private equity over the course of his career.  What You’ll LearnThe nuances between private equity and venture capitalAdvantages of a specialist over a generalist investorEmerging fields and investment trends in the tech industry Breakdown[00:46] Getting to know Alexander Leigh[02:21] Common mistake by PE firms and portfolio companies[04:35] Investment trends towards tech[06:36] Private equity VS venture capital[09:49] Do investors need specialized knowledge or skills?[12:10] The rise of climate technology [15:55] The Tippy Top Blog[21:26] Notable attributes of a top-performer[24:41] Private equity and venture capital: the good and the bad[27:33] Alexander’s learning resources  ResourcesAlexander’s LinkedInThe Tippy Top BlogThank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Today’s GuestToday we welcome Sandy Damm who was the previous managing director of Sontay. He recently published a new book called SME Globalisation that details how and why businesses can benefit from going international.  What You’ll LearnWhy globalisation is for all business sizesImplementation of a globalisation strategyCost efficient international operations Breakdown[00:45] Getting to know Sandy Damm[01:56] Common mistake by PE firms and portfolio companies[03:21] Why Sandy wrote SME Globalisation[04:30] Drawbacks of being too risk averse [07:48] How to go global [11:48] Adding value in a cost-efficient way[13:55] Notable attributes of a top-performer in sales[15:54] Private equity: the good and the bad[17:29] Sandy’s advice to his 20-year-old self[19:05] Sandy’s learning resourcesResourcesSandy’s LinkedInSME Globalisation BookThank you for tuning in! To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Today we welcome Antoine Sage who was the founding and managing partner of FnB Private Equity. Currently, he is the founder of PE Cube, a SaaS solution company for PE firms. He is also a lecturer at INSEAD and draws on his 20 years of experience in private equity to give back to students.  What You’ll LearnPE Cube as a SaaS for private equityBuilding better relationships with LPs and portfolio companiesHow Antoine’s experiences at the academe influences his practiceTips and advice for starting a private equity firm Breakdown[00:51] Getting to know Antoine Sage[03:35] Common mistake by PE firms and portfolio companies[08:56] Founding PE Cube[11:40] Improving investor relations with portfolio companies[13:53] Antoine’s advice to new private equity firms [18:23] Antoine’s learnings as a lecturer [23:17] Private equity: the good and the bad[28:31] Antoine’s learning resourcesResourcesAntoine’s LinkedInPE Cube Website Thank you for tuning in! To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Today we welcome Daniele D'Alvia, the CEO and Founder of SPAC’s Consultancy - the global expert on special purpose acquisition companies. Since 2014, Daniele has been publishing papers and editorial pieces on the topic. He authored Mergers, Acquisitions, and International Financial Regulation, the first book on SPACs. Additionally, he is also a teaching fellow at Queen Mary University of London. What You’ll LearnDefining SPACsHow SPACs are affecting private equityNew investment opportunities with SPACs Breakdown[00:50] Getting to know Daniele D'Alvia[01:51] Common mistake by PE firms and portfolio companies[03:31] What is a SPAC?[05:01] The rise in popularity of SPACs[07:11] SPACs’ influence on private equity[10:07] Private equity: the good and the bad[12:18] Daniele’s learning resourcesResourcesDaniele’s LinkedInDaniele’s EmailSPAC’s Consultancy Website Thank you for tuning in! To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Today’s GuestToday we welcome Rich Ashton, a managing partner of First Party Capital, a new operator-led venture firm focused on investments in start-ups, advertising and marketing technology (AdTech and MarTech), digital media, and data with focus on Europe and APAC. What You’ll LearnThe European Regulation’s impact on tech companiesHow the pandemic affected creating the companyAdvice in setting up Venture Capitalist FirmsChoosing to speak between founders and investorsBreakdown[00:22] Getting to know Rich Ashton[01:30] Common mistake by PE firms and portfolio companies[02:57] First Party Capital’s Focus on AdTech and MarTech[04:40] European Regulation on the AdTech Sector[07:21] Setting up a Firm in Sales and Marketing[10:19] The Impact of COVID-19[13:50] Advice for New Venture Capitalist Firms[16:21] Choosing Between Founders and Investors[20:27] What Rich Likes/Dislikes about the Venture Capital Industry[24:06] Rich’s Learning PointsResourcesRich's LinkedInRich's EmailThank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Today we welcome back returning guest Adam Coffey after his last episode became the most downloaded Private Equity episode. Adam is a Chief Executive of CoolSys and author of “The Private Equity Playbook: Management's Guide to Working with Private Equity” as well as an upcoming book “The Exit Strategy Playbook”. What You’ll LearnWhat kind of advisors to look forWhen to seek advisorsHow to be an effective entrepreneur and salespersonThe importance of transparency and creating a buyer universeBreakdown[02:14] Adam’s Background [05:01] Common mistakes by PE firms and portfolio companies [07:06] What PE-backed portfolio companies should do better or more of [11:00] Advice on identifying good and bad advice [19:51] How Adam identified when he needed advisors [29:36] How PE-backed portfolio companies can improve on their sales process [38:08] Adam’s Biggest Lessons [52:59] Where to find Adam and his booksResourcesAdam's LinkedInAdam's WebsiteThank you for tuning in! To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

*The information contained herein is provided for informational and discussion purposes only and is not an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy an interest.*Today’s GuestToday we welcome Christen Paras who is MiddleGround Capital’s managing director of business development and investor relations. With a hands-on operational expertise, MiddleGround Capital invests in B2B companies in the industrials and specialty distribution sector that are in the lower middle markets.What You’ll LearnWhy you should take business development seriouslyHow marketing improves deal flow Brand awareness and value proposition through marketingTransparency in managing investor relationsDiversity attracts founders, investors, and employees Breakdown[00:42] Getting to know Christen Paras[02:05] Common mistake by PE firms and portfolio companies[04:56] MiddleGround Capital’s marketing & research strategy [12:52] Granting full access builds trust with LPs and business owners[21:14] MiddleGround Capital’s ESG efforts[23:48] Excellence in managing LP relationships[27:10] Notable attributes of top-performing individuals[30:09] Private equity: the good and the bad[36:20] Diversity in MiddleGround Capital’s senior leadership[38:34] Christen’s learning resourcesResourcesChristen’s LinkedInChristen’s EmailChristen’s Mobile Number: +732 207 1486 Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Today’s GuestToday we welcome Bethany Gorham, Senior Vice President at Orion Energy Partners, where she has recently formed the IDEA group (Investment Development, Engagement, and Accountability). Orion is an investment firm that offers creative investment and equity solutions to middle-market infrastructure companies that are primarily focused on environmental innovation and driving sustainable finance forward. Before Orion, Bethany worked in impact investing and data and analytics in sustainable and socially responsible investing. What You’ll LearnESG as due diligence and a tool for identifying opportunitiesWhy PE firms should adopt ESG as a toolUsing ESG to manage risk and create value within portfolio companies Breakdown[00:25] Getting to know Bethany Gorham[02:19] Common mistakes made by PE firms[03:09] ESG in the Private Equity workplace[08:53] Orion’s ESG strategy[13:22] Why PE firms should adopt ESG as a tool[15:59] Resources for learning about ESG[18:27] Bethany’s passion for ESG [21:05] Get in touch with BethanyResourcesBethany’s [email protected]  Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected]. 

Today’s GuestToday we welcome Leon Brujis who is a partner at Palladium Equity Partners. The firm was founded in 1997 and has invested over $2.8 billion of capital across different industries like retail, food, transportation and logistics, business services and media. Palladium Equity Partners’ investment focus is on founder and family-owned businesses that benefit from America’s growing Hispanic market. What You’ll LearnThe effect of biases on investing decisions and dealsLeon’s experience of bias during an investmentHow diversity in a private equity firm is an advantage Breakdown[00:46] Getting to know Leon Brujis[01:57] Common mistake by PE firms and portfolio companies[05:29] Leon’s experience as a minority in the finance industry[08:24] Diversity in a company is an advantage[10:05] Leon’s bias led to a bad investment decision[13:36] How to guard against bias[15:52] Private equity: the good and the bad[19:01] Leon’s learning resourcesResourcesLeon’s LinkedIn Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Today’s GuestToday we welcome Jon Ostenson CEO of FranBridge Consulting & Capital (FBC). As the former president of an Inc. 500 franchise system and a multi-brand franchisee himself, Jon is an expert in non-food franchise industries. At FBC, he educates clients and introduces them to franchising investment opportunities.  What You’ll LearnInvesting opportunities in the franchise industryRise of non-food and non-retail franchisesFranchisee VS franchisor level of investment Challenges in franchise investingBreakdown[00:39] Getting to know Jon Ostenson[01:47] Why Jon got into private equity[02:48] Common mistake by PE firms and portfolio companies[05:03] Reasons to invest in the franchise industry[08:46] Industry and market trends in franchising [10:10] Challenges of investing at the franchise level [11:35] Convincing LPs to invest in franchise businesses[12:53] Advice to PE firms about niche specialization[14:35] Notable attributes of top-performing individuals[16:37] Jon’s learning resources[19:38] Employee retention and succession planning [20:47] Jon’s advice to his 20-year-old selfResourcesJon’s LinkedInFranBridge Consulting Website Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Today’s GuestToday we welcome James Lee who is a partner at Proskauer Rose’s private equity/M&A group. He advises private equity firms, venture capital funds, and portfolio companies on a variety of transactions such as mergers and acquisitions, leveraged buyouts, and PE and VC investments to name a few. From 2015 to 2018, James has been nominated and has received several M&A Advisor Awards for his exceptional legal counsel. What You’ll LearnSmoother deal process through transparent communicationESG metrics, certification, and credit ratingsStandardizing M&A purchase agreements for better deal flow Breakdown[01:03] Getting to know James Lee[04:10] Common mistake by PE firms and portfolio companies[12:01] The need for standardized ESG metrics[16:55] Certification of ESG practices[20:09] ESG Scores in the credit market [26:20] The need for standardized purchase agreements [35:51] Law firms as true partners to clients[41:51] Full markups in the auction process[43:54] Advising founders during mergers & acquisitions[47:36] Notable attributes of top-performing individuals[52:25] Private equity: the good and the bad[59:45] James’ learning resourcesResourcesJames’ LinkedInJames’ Email James’ Mobile Number: +1 212 969 3036  Thank you for tuning in! To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Today’s GuestToday we welcome Nancy Barnes, a freelance human resources professional who works with several businesses inside a private equity portfolio. In her 18 years of talent management, she has helped transform international companies by making strategic HR changes to drive business growth.  What You’ll LearnThe importance of transparent communicationHow to avoid panic hiringStrategic approach to human resource managementCreating a social engagement teamWhat characteristics to look for in senior hires Breakdown[00:37] Getting to know Nancy Barnes[01:47] Common HR mistake by PE firms and portfolio companies [04:57] Adapting to a fast-paced environment[07:50] Alignment of HR strategy with business goals[11:40] Improving the integration process of an add-on acquisition[15:32] How to build engagement with teams[18:31] Recruitment and succession planning[22:17] A good hire should be comfortable with change[26:53] Private equity: the good and the bad[30:50] Nancy’s learning resources ResourcesNancy’s LinkedInNancy’s Website  Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected]. 

Today’s GuestToday we welcome Anthony DeCandido who is a financial services partner at RSM, the leading provider of audit, tax, and consulting services to the middle market. He also serves as RSM’s main advisor for environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices. With his industry expertise, Anthony helps companies adapt ESG strategies so they can achieve better business results.What You’ll LearnImportance of ESG in private equityHow to implement ESG strategies in the companyEssential ESG metrics to reportTrends in the private equity industry Breakdown[00:40] Getting to know Anthony DeCandido[02:30] ESG in private equity[04:01] Common mistake by PE firms and portfolio companies[05:55] How to start integration of ESG strategy[07:48] Key performance indicators to track ESG[12:07] Private equity: the good and the bad[14:55] Notable attributes of top-performing individuals[16:20] Anthony’s learning resources[17:22] Major trends in private equity[24:03] Popularity of special purpose acquisition companies (SPAC)[25:20] Using alternative data for better insightResourcesAnthony’s LinkedInRSM Website  Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Today’s GuestToday we welcome Dan Shockley, Managing Director and Co-Founder of LFM Capital. Dan has over two decades of experience in management leadership and operations. He has held managerial positions at American Axle, Caterpillar, and Amazon before entering private equity.LFM Capital is a PE firm that invests in lower to middle market manufacturing companies and industrial service businesses. They help businesses develop world-class operations which increases long term value for all stakeholders.  What You’ll LearnHow to build trust between PE firms and portfolio companiesBalancing the use of objective and subjective dataCreating a better strategy with the use of analytics and data Trends in the manufacturing industry Breakdown[01:10] Getting to know Dan Shockley[05:30] Dan’s career transition into private equity[09:17] Common engagement mistake by PE firms [14:59] Negotiating a win-win deal in private equity[19:39] Dangers of being too data driven[23:06] How to engage with portfolio companies [25:40] Improving performance through insight[27:28] Trends in the industrial and manufacturing space[32:23] Notable attributes of top-performing individuals[36:02] Dan’s learning resourcesResourcesDan’s LinkedInDan’s EmailLFM Capital Website   Thank you for tuning in! To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected]. 

Today's GuestToday we welcome Kjael Skaalerud, the Chief Revenue Officer in Altvia, a market-leading provider for CRM and investor & deal management systems built explicitly for Private Equity Firms. He is also the founder of Skaling Ventures and believes businesses blend art and science to create and capture value. What You'll LearnHow data is taking over the Private Equity and Venture Capitals spaceTwo well-known ways companies grow their revenueWhy Private Equity Firms are not at the forefront of tech adoptionHow industry revolution is positively impacting value creation and shifting market dominance Breakdown[00:40] Getting to know Kjael Skaalerud[03:32] Mistakes made by PE Firms and their portfolio companies[06:50] The digital collision coming for PE and VC firms[19:32] Technology adoption in the PE space[22:10] Understanding proprietary deal flow[34:02] How to accelerate growth in the venture capital/private equity space[37:19] Attributes of a top-performing individual[44:01] Kjael's go-to information resourceResourcesKjael’s LinkedInKjael’s WebsiteCompeting in the Age of AIThe Algebra of HappinessThe Untethered Soul Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Today’s GuestToday we welcome Reynir Indahl, Founder and Managing Partner of Summa Equity, a company solely dedicated to impact investing in companies that seek to solve global challenges. He enjoys everything from being part of the deal to driving performance and also hosts the Corporate Unplugged podcast. What You’ll LearnHow the Private Equity Space has evolved over timeThe benefits of niching down your businessWhy sustainability is the new driver for value creationRole of purpose in business successWhy millennials prefer working for companies with meaning and purpose Breakdown[00:57] Getting to know Reynir Indahl[04:33] Solving global challenges[07:50] How Reynir and his company guarantee investment returns[15:55] Challenges faced when setting up Private Equity Firms[21:27] Reynir’s transition from the corporate world into entrepreneurship[24:30] How to better engage with a portfolio executive[33:29] Notable attributes of top performing PE firms[35:50] Reynir’s go-to information sourceResourcesThe Private Equity 4.0 articleGive and Take by Adam GrantReimagining Capitalism by Rebecca HendersonReinventing Organizations by Frederic LalouxReynir’s WebsiteReynir’s LinkedInThe Corporate Unplugged Podcast Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Today’s GuestToday we welcome Oliver Gottschalg founder and head researcher of PERACS, the leading private equity analytics provider. Oliver also serves as an associate professor at HEC Paris and as academic dean of the TRIUM Global Executive MBA. Combining all of his research and work experience in private equity, Oliver has been in the field for 20 years now. What You’ll LearnHow PERACS deals with both GPs and LPs Challenges in acquiring private equity data How PE firms can identify their USPSuccess metrics to look out for in PE firmsCompany acquisition from a founder’s point of view Breakdown[00:49] Getting to know Oliver Gottschalg[02:09] PERACS as a PE specialist advisory firm [03:02] Gathering and analyzing private equity data[05:17] Key indicators of success for GPs[10:46] How LPs can identify good PE firms[13:54] How PE firms can present themselves better to LPs[18:45] Common mistake of PE firms in marketing and positioning[20:27] How PE firms can identify their unique selling proposition[23:06] Why Oliver founded PERACS[28:46] The acquisition of PERACS [34:41] Notable attributes of top-performing PE firms[35:59] Data availability in private equity[39:16] Oliver’s learning resources ResourcesOliver’s LinkedInOliver’s Email Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Private Equity PodcastToday’s GuestToday we welcome Adam Coffey, bestselling author of The Private Equity Playbook. For over two decades, he worked as president and CEO of several private equity-backed service companies. Currently, he is the CEO of CoolSys, a market-leading refrigeration and HVAC service company in America.  What You’ll LearnRecruiting the right people to drive growth Best practices for acquisition and integrationAdam’s exit strategy Breakdown[00:00:47] Getting to know Adam Coffey[00:05:24] Common mistake by private equity firms [00:08:36] Recruiting the right talent for specific roles[00:17:15] Acquisition and integration strategy[00:23:22] Challenges in managing portfolio of companies[00:28:12] Advice for exiting private equity investments[00:36:11] Why Adam got into writing[00:45:46] Notable attributes of top-performing individuals[00:50:47] Private equity: the good and the bad[00:56:00] Adam’s learning resources[01:00:37] Navigating through COVID-19 ResourcesAdam’s LinkedInAdam’s WebsiteThe Private Equity Playbook Thank you for tuning in! To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected].

Today’s GuestToday we welcome Bruce Sinclair, founder and principal consultant of Digital Operating Partners. Drawing from his experiences as a CEO and as a consultant, he authored two books on how businesses can leverage technology to create more value.  What You’ll LearnDefinition of digital transformation and how it creates value How to get started on digital transformationThe role of digital transformation in private equityExample applications of high-level technology to create smart products and services Onboarding the right expert or team to create structural change Breakdown[00:49] Getting to know Bruce Sinclair[02:40] Why Bruce got into writing[05:46] Digital transformation and its impact[13:58] Biggest mistake by private equity firms in digital transformation[17:40] Founding a company during COVID-19[21:54] The Role of Digital Operating Partners[25:54] How digital transformation creates value [32:50] Examples of digital transformation [38:36] How to begin digital transformation in portfolio of companies[45:19] Notable attributes of top-performing individual[47:08] Qualities to look for in a digital transformation expert or team[52:02] Bruce’s learning resourcesResourcesThe Private Equity Digital Operating PartnerIoT IncDigital Operating Partners WebsiteBruce’s EmailThe Private Equity Digital Transformation Show   Thank you for tuning in! To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected]

                                       Private Equity Podcast Today's GuestToday we welcome Laith Murad, an experienced Chief Marketing Officer, having worked for small equity-backed companies right up to being a vice president with Yahoo.  What You'll LearnThe relationship between marketing and business successHow to beat your competition using SEOWhy emotions and human behavior are essential to every marketing campaignWhy data doesn't always work in marketingHow to determine your target audienceHow influencers have evolved from the '90s up to now Breakdown[00:54] Getting to know Laith Murad[04:02] The Biggest marketing mistakes most companies make[06:01] Defining marketing from a CEO's perspective[10:50] How companies with limited resources can stand out from the crowd[17:10] Parts of a business that influence effective marketing strategies [21:58] Data that guarantees effective marketing campaigns[28:01] Notable attributes of top-performing individual[33:35] What Lath likes and dislikes about private equity[39:19] Marketing for beginners ResourcesLaith's LinkedIn Thank you for tuning in! To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected]

Today's GuestToday we welcome Greg Gille, the chief editor of Unquote, a European public equity publication that focuses on financial markets across Europe from a data viewpoint. Gille is also the chair of the judging panel for the British Private Equity Awards. What You'll Learn How private equity firms create valueWhy consistency is key in value creationWhat makes a successful private equity firmWhy most finance people detest private equityHow cumulative mistakes have the potential of sinking a businessHow private equity firms attract top talents The link between diversity and thriving workplacesBreakdown[00:40] Who is Greg Gille[03:47] The main thing judges look out for during the British Private Equity Awards[09:06] What is value creation[13:48] Cumulative areas where private equity firms are struggling with[20:40] Why sticking to a working strategy can be a good thing[25:03] The relationship between private equity firms and the media[33:41] How private equity firms stand out in the financial sector[40:39] Things that Greg likes and dislikes about the industry[53:20] Greg's influences and what he's reading now[58:40] Greg's advice to his 20-year-old selfResourcesGreg Gille’s LinkedInUnquote.comThank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected]

Today's GuestToday we welcome Carol Crick, Vice President of HR at Acorn Growth Companies, a middle market Private Equity firm focused on aerospace, defence and intelligence.  Acorn invests in operating companies that strive to enhance global mobility, protect national interests, and develop next-generation intelligence gathering technology. Prior to joining Acorn, she spent years mentoring and leading teams to build corporate HR departments, and assisted multiple companies to grow both organically and strategically. As director of Human Resources for Select Energy Services, Carol was instrumental in leading a strategic expansion of growth from 1000 employees to more than 6,200 over a 4-year period.Carol graduated from Central Texas College with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. She served many years on the Lake Dallas ISD School Board of Trustees, currently sits on the Aerospace Employer Advisory Board for COWIB and is very active at Woodland Hills Baptist Church. What’s in this episode?In today’s episode Carol talks about her responsibilities as VP of HR and her experience partnering with business ownersWhat you'll learn·         Why trusting your Private Equity firm is key to success as a Portfolio Company·         The similarities between a HR role and an Operating Partner role·         Why talent is vital when making add-on acquisitions Breakdown01:45 - Managing the difference between working for an Operating business to working for a Private Equity firm02:44 - What are the biggest mistakes PE firms and Portfolio companies are making right now06:47 - What does HR do outside of the usual hiring/firing09:22 - What are the key challenges facing portfolio companies right now?11:47 - Biggest challenges when purchasing and integrating new portfolio companies15:29 - What do you like and dislike about the Private Equity Industry19:15 - 3 qualities of a top performer21:50 - What are your influences23:27 - Have you even been blindsided and what did you learn from it?24:30 - What advice would you give to your 20 year old self?Resourceshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/carol-crick-ab9b634/https://acorngrowthcompanies.com/Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected]

Today's GuestToday we welcome Greg Bloom, an experienced private equity backed operating partner and CEO experienced in the aerospace, defence and intelligence sector. Greg is possibly one of the most connected people I know in the A&D world and has a stellar track record of growing companies.   Starting his career in Investment Banking, Greg spent his early career working for Prudential Securities in both Los Angeles and New York.Greg then spent the next 10 years working for various different companies before joining Seal Science in 2002. Being hugely impacted by the 9/11 terror attacks, Greg was instrumental is driving the company to become a military and aerospace support organisation and developed Seal Science into one of the top companies in Signature Management (stealth technologies).Greg made the move the Private Equity in 2019 and now works closely with Acorn’s Aerospace and Defence portfolio companies. What’s in this episode?In today’s episode Greg talks all about his experience working in the Aerospace and Defence industry and gives his predictions for the future. What you'll learn·         Why now is the best time to look at your portfolio of talent·         Why fleets and A&D companies need to diversify towards environmentally friendly aircraft·         Why you need to make decisions quickly in your company·         Why you should be willing to serveBreakdown3:47 - What are the differences working for non PE backed companies to working in a PE company now5:46 - What are the biggest mistakes PE firms and Portfolio companies are making right now9:15 - Greg talks about his time leading Seal science and 7x the revenue11:55 - What should Aerospace and Defence companies be doing in the current climate15:12 - What is the biggest area for growth in the A&D area right now?20:10 - What three attributes makes a top performer28:25 - What do you like and dislike about the Private Equity Industry33:08 - What are your influences36:00 - Have you even been blindsided and what did you learn from it?39:50 - What advice would you give to your 20 year old self?Resourceshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/gbloom/https://acorngrowthcompanies.com/http://sealscience.com/https://www.anduril.com/ Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected]

Today's GuestToday we welcome Marc Prine, an industrial-organisational psychologist working with Private Equity clients in the US to improve their performance by using data to better manage their people.What’s in this episode?In today’s episode Marc explains how he helps his clients secure the talent that is right for them, using a mixture of executive assessment and selection, succession planning, job analysis and business process improvement. What you'll learnWhat exactly is an industrial/organisational psychologistWhy experience in an industry doesn’t always translate to success in the jobWhy you need to think about where you want to go before hiring talentWhat is the 'locus of control'Why instant gratification could kill your careerWhy optimism is a key factor in great leadershipBreakdown6:46 - What one mistake do you see PE firms or Portfolio Companies making10:20 - The two main duties of an organisational psychologist14:45 - What PE firms can learn from working with an organisational psychologist18:40 - The difference between a controller and a CFO20:44 - How do you measure if someone can create strategic value?23:07 - The three attributes of a top performer32:14 - What do you like and dislike about Private Equity35:20 - Marc’s influences and what he’s reading right now38:20 - A time Marc was blindsided and what he learned from it41:25 - What advice would you give your 20 year old selfResourceshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/marcprine/https://www.mipconsultingllc.com/Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected]

Today's GuestToday we welcome Paul McCluskey, an experienced Private Equity board director with a record of creating significant shareholder value and delivering strategic growth.  Originally qualifying with KPMG as a Chartered Accountant, Paul then moved into the FTSE 100 environment.After selling one of the FTSE 100 businesses to an American business, Paul started on the Private Equity journey in 2007 when he was part of the MBO team that took Synexa life sciences private with Private Equity, successfully exiting at 3x investment value in 2011.Later, in 2014, Paul was part of the MBI team that created Concept Life Sciences with support from Equistone Partners. He now works as a Consultant, advising business in the Life Sciences and Technology industries. What’s in this episode?In today’s episode Paul discusses with Alex how he created Concept Life Sciences with a series of management buy-ins and the challenges he faced growing this business before ultimately exiting in 2018 for 3x ROI.What you'll learnWhy talent is the key factor in success of a companyWhy urgency could be the key different between working in a PE backed vs non PE backed companyWhy finding your niche in the market is vital to successWhy you don’t need to have all the answersWhy you need to stick to your 100-day planWhy you should be taking more risks earlier in your careerBreakdown4:44 - What one mistake do you see PE firms or Portfolio Companies making8:07 - Advice for CEO’s looking to enter the Private Equity world14:26 - Paul discusses what it was like growing a business with a Private Equity sponsor and exiting24:30 - The challenges Paul faced integrating multiple add-on business and making sure there were no culture clashes 27:31 - Paul shares his biggest successes with Concept Life Sciences30:06 - How can PE firms get more value from their Portfolio Companies 32:44 - Advice for CEO’s wanting to take their business PE backed35:45 - What three attributes make a top performer38:59 - What Paul loves and hates about the PE industry44:11 - Paul’s influences 49:12 - Paul talks about a time he was blindsided and what he learned from it55:55 - What advice would you give your 20 year old self Resourceshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-mccluskey-3488b09a/https://www.conceptlifesciences.com/https://www.synexusclinic.co.uk/https://www.equistonepe.com/Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected]

Today's GuestWe’re extremely excited to welcome Victor Vescovo to the podcast today.Victor is an American private equity investor, co-founder of Insight Equity, retired naval officer, and undersea explorer, being the first person to reach the deepest points of four of the Earth’s five oceans during the Five Deeps Expedition of 2018-2019.In 2017, Vescovo became the 12th American to complete the “Explorers Grand Slam” which requires climbing the highest peak on all seven of the world’s continents, including Mt. Everest.For more than 20 years, Vescovo served as an office in the U.S. Navy Reserve, retiring in 2014. He served at various times on extended active duty, including Pearl Harbor where he was posted after the 9/11 attacks as a counter-terrorism specialist. In the Private Equity world, he is cofounder and Managing Partner of Private Equity firm Insight Equity, an industrial buyout firm with over $1B AUM, where he focuses on growing and enhancing aerospace and defence firms.What’s in this episode?In today’s episode Victor chats with Alex about his experiences in mountaineering and undersea exploration and draws on the strong parallels between working in Private Equity and doing expeditions and military operations. What you'll learn Why risk mitigation plays a vital role in both expeditions and Private Equity InvestingWhy hesitating on decision making can kill your businessWhat Victor has drawn from his military background to influence his Private Equity firm todayThe most painful decision Victor has ever had to makeWhat drove Victor to set up his current PE Firm, Insight EquityHow 9/11 changed his lifeWhat makes some a great leader and top performerBreakdown4:40 - Why do some people take on more risk than others, in expeditions and in business?8:45 - The biggest mistakes Victor sees people making in PE10:16 - How Victor’s military background influences his decision making today13:00 - Why Victor set up his PE Firm, Insight Equity16:04 - Victor describes what was working in the military was like17:30 - How to make partner in your firm19:57 - Victor’s interpretation of what makes a great leader22:34 - The makeup of a top performer25:10 - Victor’s likes and dislikes in the Private Equity Industry33:40 - what advice would you give to your 20 year old selfResourceshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/victor-vescovo-4a130775/https://fivedeeps.com/https://www.ted.com/speakers/victor_vescovohttps://www.insightequity.com/Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected]

Today's GuestToday we welcome Rick Brawn, Operating Partner at GenNx360, an operationally focused Private Equity firm that invests in industrial and business service companies. After receiving his engineering degree from MIT, Rick joined Pratt and Whitney, an engine company part of United Technologies. He was with the company for 17 years, achieving his masters and MBA in engineering, holding various different positions and even moving to 6 different countries with his wife and 4 children to go where the company needed him.5 years ago he made the transition to working for GenNx360 as Operating Partner and now lives in Florida.What’s in this episode?In today’s episode Rick explains how he transitioned from running companies as the former Managing Director of Rolls Royce and Pratt & Whitney, to working for a Private Equity firm as an Operating Partner and the steep learning curve that came with that transition. What you'll learnWhy it’s vital for Portfolio Companies to fully understand the Investment thesisWhat to do as a CEO if your firm is being acquired by Private EquityWhat exactly is the role of Operating PartnerHow Rick made the transition from being CEO to Operating Partner, never having worked in Private Equity beforeThe steep learning curve Rick experienced coming into the Private Equity industryThe best way to really learn more about PEThe main challenges Rick faces as an Operating PartnerRick’s advice for anyone looking to make the move to an Operating Partner role Breakdown2:36 - What one mistake do you see PE firms or Portfolio Companies making4:03 - Advice for a CEO of a business being acquired by a PE firm6:04 - How do you define the role of Operating Partner8:04 - How involved in the deal process are Operating Partners?10:29 - How Rick transitioned from running companies as MD/CEO to working for the PE firm as Operating Partner18:39 - Main challenges faced as an Operating Partner20:12 - What advice would you give someone looking to make the move to Operating Partner27:00 - The three attributes that make a top performing executive32:08 - Rick’s likes and dislikes in the Private Equity industry39:30 - Rick’s experience with being blindsided42:17 - What advice would Rick give to his 20-year-old self?Resourceshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/operatingpartner/https://gennx360.com/team-info/rick-brawnhttps://www.rolls-roycemotorcars.com/en_GB/home.htmlhttps://prattwhitney.com/Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to [email protected]