Generating Alpha Podcast

Glenn Dubin, a legendary investor and co-founder of Highbridge Capital Management, shares his inspiring journey from a modest upbringing in Washington Heights to becoming a titan in finance. He discusses the strategic vision behind Highbridge's multi-strategy approach and his transition to running his family office, Dubin & Co. Glenn emphasizes the importance of risk management and mentorship in leadership. He also reflects on philanthropy, co-founding Robin Hood, and the emerging trends in investing, highlighting his passion for building and supporting innovative ventures.

Today, I had the honor of sitting down with Alan Schwartz, a distinguished leader in finance and investment banking. Best known for his tenure as the CEO of Bear Stearns, Alan has had a remarkable career at the highest levels of Wall Street, navigating some of the most challenging moments in financial history.Alan began his career after earning his degree from Duke University, joining First Boston before moving to Bear Stearns in 1976. Over the next three decades, he rose through the ranks, eventually becoming CEO in 2007, just months before the 2008 financial crisis. As the firm faced unprecedented turmoil, Alan played a critical role in its final days, ultimately overseeing its sale to JPMorgan Chase.Following his time at Bear Stearns, Alan transitioned to Guggenheim Partners, where he currently serves as Executive Chairman, helping to build one of the most respected financial services firms in the world.In this episode, we discuss Alan’s journey, his perspectives on leadership, connecting the dots, and the lessons he’s learned from navigating crises. He also shares invaluable insights on the evolution of investment banking, and advice for those looking to build lasting careers in finance.

Today, we had the privilege of speaking with Michael Mauboussin, one of the most respected minds in value investing. With a career spanning decades in finance, Michael has been at the forefront of applying behavioral science, probability, and market efficiency to investment strategy.Michael began his career after earning his degree from Georgetown University, later becoming a longtime Chief Investment Strategist at Legg Mason Capital Management. He has since held senior roles at Credit Suisse and Morgan Stanley, where he has shaped investment thinking with his deep research into expected value, skill vs. luck, and the psychology of markets.Beyond his professional work, Michael is a prolific author, having written several essential books, including The Success Equation and More Than You Know, which explore how to make better decisions in uncertain environments. He also serves as an adjunct professor at Columbia Business School, where he teaches and mentors the next generation of investors.In this episode, we dive into Michael’s journey, his perspectives, and his advice for investors at every level. Whether you’re a professional or just starting out, this conversation is packed with insights that will change how you approach investing. We hope you enjoy!

Today, we had the honor of sitting down with Alan Patricof, a true pioneer in the world of venture capital. Widely credited as one of the first VCs in history, Alan has played a pivotal role in shaping the industry over the past five decades. Alan began his career after earning degrees from Ohio State University and Columbia Business School, and in 1969, he founded Alan Patricof Associates, one of the first venture capital firms in the U.S. That firm later evolved into APAX Partners, which became one of the largest private equity funds in the world. Through APAX, Alan was an early investor in game-changing companies like Apple, AOL, and Office Depot. In 2006, he co-founded Greycroft alongside Dana Settle and Ian Sigalow, focusing on early-stage media investments in companies such as Huffington Post and Venmo. Then, at age 85, he launched Primetime Partners with Abby Levy, a fund dedicated to investing in businesses that serve the aging population. Now, at 90 years old, Alan remains incredibly sharp and engaged, continuing to push boundaries in both business and life. In this episode, we dive deep into his remarkable career, his insights on venture capital, advice for entrepreneurs, and his perspectives on longevity. Thanks for listenings.

Steve Cohen, Founder and CEO of Point72 Asset Management and owner of the New York Mets, shares his fascinating journey from childhood in Great Neck to the world of finance. He discusses how poker sharpened his risk-taking skills and his early influence from the stock market. Cohen elaborates on his multi-strategy investment approach, the importance of passion in work, and parallels between managing a hedge fund and a sports team. His thoughts on art collecting reveal unexpected insights, emphasizing its educational value and connection to history.

Jim Rogers, a legendary investor and co-founder of the Quantum Fund, shares his wisdom on investment and life. He recounts his Alabama childhood and how it shaped his global perspective. From teaching children Mandarin to navigating his first major investment mistake, Jim emphasizes pursuing passion over profit. He discusses the importance of firsthand travel in making informed investment decisions, particularly in places like Uzbekistan. With a critical eye, he warns about excessive money printing and encourages deep, knowledgeable investing.

Noah Yechiely, a former Partner Director at Bridgewater Associates with a rich background in finance and Israeli intelligence, shares his journey from engineering to investing. He discusses the efficiency of markets, the evolution of investment strategies with technology, and the invaluable skills gained from consulting. Noah emphasizes the importance of analytical creativity in hiring and encourages young professionals to cultivate curiosity and pursue their passions. His insights blend finance expertise with life advice, making it a compelling listen.