Private Equity Podcast: Karma School of Business

In this engaging conversation, Mike Rubel, Managing Partner at RFE Investment Partners and a veteran of both investment banking and private equity, shares his impactful journey in the finance world. He discusses the importance of discovering unique companies in traditional sectors and nurturing talent within teams. Emphasizing the critical role of culture, Mike highlights how cohesive teams can drive success and the necessity of aligning incentives to empower employees. His insights provide a fascinating look into the intricacies of lower middle market private equity.

Philip Lewis, a Partner at Fulcrum Equity Partners, shares his fascinating journey from investment banking to private equity. He discusses the evolution of Fulcrum, managing nearly a billion in assets, and the importance of adaptability in his career. Highlights include his approach to crisis management, the impact of company culture on success, and strategies for navigating the current fundraising landscape. Philip emphasizes the value of innovation and emotional intelligence in driving growth and staying ahead in the ever-changing financial sector.

Join us in this episode of Private Equity Spotlight where Sean Mooney, founder and CEO of BluWave, engages in a deep dive with Christian Bullitt, Managing Director at Raymond James Private Capital Advisory Practice. With a career that has traversed from public relations to the heart of private equity, Christian brings a wealth of experience and a unique viewpoint on the evolving fundraising landscape. This episode unpacks the challenges facing private equity firms in today's fundraising environment, the critical role of operational excellence, and what Limited Partners (LPs) are currently seeking in their private equity partnerships. Episode Highlights: 1:53 - From PR to private equity: Christian's unconventional path to success. 4:19 - Insights into Christian's background and his early aspirations. 7:11 - What LPs value in private equity firms in the current market. 14:16 - Analyzing the present state of private equity fundraising. 22:36 - Effective strategies for standing out in the fundraising arena. 27:17 - How Raymond James supports PE firms amidst fundraising challenges. 33:32 - A book recommendation from Christian and its influence on his professional outlook. For more information on Raymond James, go to https://www.raymondjames.com/corporations-and-institutions/investment-banking For more information on Christian Bullitt, go to https://www.linkedin.com/in/christianbullitt For more information on BluWave, go to https://www.bluwave.net  

In this engaging episode of Private Equity Spotlight, Sean Mooney, founder and CEO of BluWave, sits down with Caleb Clark, Senior Partner at ATL Partners. With a rich background that spans from investment banking to private equity, Caleb shares his journey through the industry, highlighting his entrepreneurial roots and his role in shaping ATL Partners. This conversation explores the importance of asymmetric returns, strategic investments, and building a firm that not only excels in making best-in-class investments but also in being a best-in-class business itself. Episode Highlights: 1:56 - From investment banking to private equity: Caleb's path to ATL Partners. 5:19 - Entrepreneurial roots and the transition to building ATL Partners. 8:22 - Personal insights: From politics to private equity. 15:42 - Identifying value in potential investments: Caleb's approach. 22:21 - The role of sector focus in assessing and growing investments. 27:24 - Embracing change and innovation for future success. 34:41 - Advice to younger self: Embrace opportunities and adaptability. For more information on ATL Partners, go to https://www.atlpartners.com/ For more information on Caleb Clark, go to https://www.linkedin.com/in/clarkcaleb/ For more information on BluWave and this podcast, go to https://www.bluwave.net/podcasts/  

James Sidwa, Managing Partner at Heartwood Partners, offers insights from his background in family entrepreneurship and private equity. He discusses the significance of trust and strategic planning when investing in family-run businesses. The conversation highlights tailored value creation strategies, emphasizing innovation and leveraging expert guidance. James shares his personal journey, the importance of integrity, and adaptability in navigating challenges. He reflects on the joy of recruitment and organizational growth, celebrating the opportunities that arise from fostering a growth mindset.

Susan Soh, Chief of Capital Formation and Investor Relations at GrowthCurve Capital, transitioned from law to private equity, driving innovative investment strategies. In this discussion, she highlights the importance of data-rich businesses and the transformative role of AI. Susan shares her views on adaptability, curiosity, and the necessity of building strong partnerships in the private equity landscape. She also emphasizes the significance of tech adoption for future success and reflects on her entrepreneurial spirit that shapes her approach to investments.

Jay Jester, a Partner at Plexus Capital with a strong background in family business, shares his journey through the evolving landscape of private equity. He emphasizes the value of adaptability and long-term relationships in business development. Jay discusses the transformative shift from traditional methods to proactive deal-making and the importance of culture in driving success. He also reflects on personal growth in leadership, advocating for a balance between accountability and inspiration in fostering excellence.

Conor Grennan, a New York Times bestselling author and Chief AI Architect at NYU Stern, dives into the fascinating world of AI. He discusses his journey from skepticism to becoming an AI influencer and emphasizes the importance of mentorship in understanding AI. Conor shares effective strategies for utilizing AI in professional growth, highlighting its role in transforming hiring practices. He also explores how generative AI can serve as a thought partner for leaders, advocating for a balance between technology and human insight in the evolving workplace.

Join industry titans Carl Press from Thoma Bravo, Suzanne Yoon of Kinzie Capital, John Caple of Hidden Harbor Capital Partners, Erica Blob of Brighton Park Capital, and Eric Hansen from Blue Sea Capital as they delve into the heart of value creation in private equity. They discuss the importance of strong leadership and customer focus. The group shares insights on selecting growth-stage companies and the essentials of value investing. Discover how effective management and diversification can drive investment success.

Join Sean Mooney for a compelling episode of Private Equity Spotlight featuring Pam Hendrickson, Vice Chairman of The Riverside Company and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the American Investment Council. In this episode, Pam delves into her journey within the private equity sector, sharing insights on leadership, the transformative power of private equity, and the importance of strategic vision in fostering growth and resilience in businesses. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction to Pam Hendrickson's journey from aspiring doctor to a pivotal figure in private equity. 10:57 - Clarifying the distinction between private equity and hedge funds, focusing on strategies for long-term growth. 17:24 - Overview of Riverside's support for portfolio companies, including cybersecurity enhancements. 25:31 - Addressing misconceptions: The proactive efforts of private equity in influencing public perception and policy. 31:37 - Succession planning and monetization strategies for businesses owned by baby boomers through private equity. 37:37 - Leadership insights: Pam shares lessons on decision-making and influence, inspired by military principles. For more on The Riverside Company, visit www.riversidecompany.com. For more about Pam Hendrickson, visit https://www.linkedin.com/in/pamelahendrickson/. For more about BluWave and this podcast, visit www.bluwave.net/podcasts.