In this engaging episode of the Karma School of Business podcast, Sean Mooney sits down with Dan Ryan, Managing Director at MidOcean Partners, to discuss his journey in private equity, the evolving dynamics of the industry, and how MidOcean is staying ahead in a competitive market. From life-saving lessons to building critical business functions during challenging times, Dan shares invaluable insights about overcoming adversity, nurturing relationships, and leveraging data to create impactful results. Whether you're a private equity professional or a business leader, this episode offers inspiration and tactics you can apply in your career. Episode Highlights 2:00 – Dan Ryan’s journey from investment banking to private equity and how his time at Georgetown and Division 1 soccer influenced his leadership approach. 8:00 – The life-saving story of a steak dinner gone wrong and how it echoes lessons of trust and collaboration in high-stakes situations. 14:00 – Building MidOcean’s business development function during the pandemic and utilizing data as a competitive advantage. 27:00 – How MidOcean is adapting to industry changes by integrating structured equity, leveraging AI, and forming strategic JVs like their initiative with Kroger. 38:00 – The importance of cybersecurity in private equity-backed companies and actionable advice for protecting businesses. 39:00 – Practical life hacks: From generative AI for daily use to a surprising life-saving maneuver for choking incidents.   For more information on MidOcean Partners, go to https://www.midoceanpartners.com/ For more information on Dan Ryan, go to https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-ryan-3324512/ For more information on BluWave and this podcast, go to https://www.bluwave.net/podcasts

Sean Mooney welcomes Vinay Kashyap, Partner at Mainsail Partners, to explore the art and science of investing in and scaling bootstrapped software companies. With a focus on relationships, discipline, and resourcefulness, Vinay reveals how Mainsail supports entrepreneurs in building enduring businesses. Discover practical strategies for turning product-driven companies into market leaders, leveraging AI for growth, and navigating the fast-changing tech landscape with confidence.   1:07 - Vinay’s journey into private equity, how his upbringing influenced his career, and the focus on bootstrapped software companies at Mainsail Partners. 6:45 - The value of long-term relationship building, Mainsail’s proactive approach to sourcing investments, and why a three-to-five-year timeline is critical. 10:27 - What makes a great investment: strong growth metrics, durable product quality, and visionary, industry-experienced founders with a learning mindset. 16:29 - Transforming companies post-investment: building infrastructure, upgrading tech stacks, assembling top-tier teams, and implementing data-driven systems. 23:45 - Practical applications of AI within portfolio companies, including customer service transformations and developer productivity optimization. 32:13 - Preparing for a future shaped by AI and the importance of embedding cutting-edge technology into both operations and product offerings.   For more information on Mainsail Partners, go to  https://Mainsailpartners.com/ For more information on Vinay Kashyap, go to  https://www.linkedin.com/in/vinay-kashyap-3646173 For more information on BluWave and this podcast, go to https://www.bluwave.net/podcasts

Lisa Ames, a marketing operating executive at Norwest Venture Partners, shares her unconventional journey into private equity, shaped by her SaaS expertise. She emphasizes the significance of trust in leadership and the idea of a 'business therapist' for navigating challenges. The discussion covers key traits of high-performing businesses, effective Ideal Customer Profiles, and the synergy between sales and marketing. Lisa also offers timeless advice on networking, stressing the power of authentic connections in transforming careers and driving growth.

The discussion dives into key lessons from 2024, revealing unpredictable economic signals and challenges faced by the private equity industry. Insights point to a stable outlook for 2025, with recovering deal activities and a shift towards growth-focused strategies. The conversation highlights emerging trends in AI, reshoring, and the evolving M&A landscape. Experts share advice on leveraging these trends while emphasizing the importance of retaining talent over new hires. Finally, there's a look ahead at opportunities in the U.S. manufacturing sector and strategies to thrive in a competitive environment.

Jonathan Metrick, Partner and Chief Growth Officer at Sagard, shares his unique journey from operator to private equity leader. He discusses the importance of embracing a company's 'superpower' for long-term success. Jonathan highlights how Sagard empowers portfolio companies through strategic go-to-market approaches and AI innovations. He emphasizes the need for connected data systems to drive profit-centric growth and explains how small changes in response time can significantly boost conversion rates. Gain insights on leveraging benchmarking for accelerated scaling.

Sean Mooney sits down with Steve Hunter, Managing Director at TM Capital, to discuss the nuanced world of M&A, the key ingredients for creating value in a business, and what both buyers and sellers need to know for a successful deal. Steve offers practical advice for private equity professionals and business owners, sharing timeless insights from his decades-long career and a behind-the-scenes perspective on helping companies achieve transformational outcomes. Episode Highlights: 1:12 - Steve Hunter shares his journey from rural Pennsylvania to a career in M&A, including his early days at Alex. Brown and Robinson Humphrey. 8:11 - Building value in a business: How to de-risk operations, grow strategically, and attract top buyers by focusing on recurring revenue, growth opportunities, and strong teams. 19:02 - Why every seller should prepare their business as though it’s “sale-ready” from day one to maximize outcomes. 24:48 - The importance of transparency, top-tier advisors, sell-side QofE, and handling the overwhelming volume of data requests during an M&A process. 32:06 - Steve shares advice for buyers: Avoiding abrasiveness, thoroughly preparing for management meetings, and balancing operational oversight post-acquisition. 40:59 - TM Capital’s tailored approach: A Goldilocks strategy with boutique-level customization and deep investment in deal preparation, including advanced data analytics. 44:27 - Steve looks ahead to 2025 and shares why he’s optimistic about a strong year for M&A activity. 51:06 - Insights for life and leadership: The importance of asking for what you want and recognizing that anyone can shape the world around them. For more information on Edison Partners, go to https://www.tmcapital.com/ For more information on Casey Myers, go to https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjhunter For more information on BluWave and this podcast, go to https://www.bluwave.net/podcasts

In this engaging discussion, Casey Myers, a partner at Edison Partners, shares his extensive experience in private equity focusing on leadership and sustainable growth. He highlights how his collaboration with 52 firms shaped his view on operational value creation. Casey emphasizes the importance of strong leadership character and addressing technology debt for company success. He advocates for a people-first approach to build high-performing teams and reveals his advice to embrace diverse experiences for personal and professional growth.

John Caple from Hidden Harbor Capital Partners shares insights on his journey in private equity, focusing on the power of embracing feedback and making small process adjustments. He emphasizes balancing personal strengths to enhance career growth. The discussion also touches on adaptability, trusting your instincts, and the importance of building relationships. Listeners gain valuable wisdom on maneuvering challenges and the essence of maintaining patience while navigating their careers.

Celebrate the joy of the season with a special message from The Karma School of Business. We're taking this moment to wish you and your loved ones a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays. Enjoy this time with family and friends, and thank you for being a part of our community. For more information on BluWave and this podcast, go to www.bluwave.net/podcasts.

Discover impactful book recommendations that shape the minds of top business builders. Highlights include timeless wisdom from 'The Book of Charlie' and management insights from 'Traction.' Dive into thought-provoking titles like Yuval Noah Harari's works, along with engaging narratives from 'The Loop Files' and 'Mosquito Bowl.' Explore the critical roles of teamwork, intentional choices, and personal growth through literature in a fast-paced business environment. It's a treasure trove of resources for the entrepreneurial spirit!