In this episode of Private Equity Spotlight, Sean Mooney sits down with Ran Ding and Chris Scullin from Norwest to discuss why private equity is ultimately a people-driven business. With deep insights into founder-led businesses and long-term partnership strategies, Ran and Chris share their unique approach to building trust, creating value, and fostering alignment with the companies they invest in. From their personal journeys to the principles that guide their work, this episode offers timeless lessons for investors and founders alike.Episode Highlights2:15 – Discover how Ran Ding and Chris Scullin turned personal challenges into professional purpose in private equity.8:45 – Building trust and alignment: The secret to lasting partnerships in founder-led businesses.17:30 – Winning strategies for scaling founder-driven companies while preserving their culture.26:15 – How a people-first mindset sets Norwest apart in the world of private equity investing.36:50 – Real-world examples of...

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 Highlights2:00 – 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...

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.Episode Highlights1:07 - 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...

In this episode of the Karma School of Business, Sean Mooney hosts Lisa Ames, an accomplished marketing operating executive at Norwest Venture Partners. Lisa shares her unique journey into private equity, the value of fostering trust as a business leader, and actionable strategies for marketing and value creation at portfolio companies. Whether you're a business builder or a marketing professional, this conversation is packed with insights to elevate your approach to leadership and growth.Episode Highlights3:07 - Lisa’s unexpected path to private equity and how her SaaS background shaped her role at Norwest.6:05 - The concept of a "business therapist" and why trust is pivotal in operating roles.14:25 - Key traits of high-performing businesses, including ruthless prioritization and inspirational leadership.26:37 - Norwest’s unique approach to value creation and the resources they offer portfolio companies.35:11 - Advice on refining Ideal Customer Profiles (ICP) and crafting impactful...

Join Sean Mooney in this engaging episode of Karma School of Business as he speaks with Jonathan Metrick, Partner and Chief Growth Officer at Sagard. Jonathan shares profound insights on growth strategies, operational excellence, and lessons learned as a former operator turned private equity growth leader. Tune in for actionable advice on accelerating revenue, leveraging data, and adapting to new market dynamics in today’s fast-paced environment.Episode Highlights[00:02:40] Jonathan’s unconventional journey from operator to private equity and his reflections on entering the investment world.[00:10:25] Why owning your company’s “superpower” and becoming obsessive about it drives long-term success.[00:15:02] How Sagard supports portfolio companies through go-to-market strategies, AI innovation, and commercial partnerships.[00:23:04] The importance of connected data systems and how they help businesses achieve profit-centric growth.[00:30:34] Why "speed to lead" is essential and how...

In this special compilation episode, private equity leaders share the invaluable advice they would give to their younger selves. This collection of insights offers timeless wisdom applicable to professionals at all stages of their careers. Hear lessons on adaptability, patience, relationship building, and trusting your instincts from some of the most respected voices in the industry.Episode Highlights:1:04 - Grant Kornman (Align Collaborate, Episode 53): Discusses the importance of hard work, relationship-building, and creating your own luck.3:20 - John Caple (Hidden Harbor Capital Partners, Episode 57): Talks about embracing feedback, making small process adjustments, and balancing personal strengths.11:02 - Carl Press (Thoma Bravo, Episode 60): Reflects on trusting your instincts, building confidence, and speaking up when you've done the work.13:13 - Doug Horn (Clairvest, Episode 63): Shares the metaphor of not holding the grip too tight and how it applies to life and career.14:58 -...

Join us as Rob Konrad, co-founder of Alterna Equity Partners, shares his journey from NFL athlete to private equity leader. Rob discusses how experiences from sports influence his investment strategies and success in building businesses.Episode Highlights:1:05 - Rob recounts his early fascination with economics and football during his upbringing in Boston.4:14 - The transition from college football at Syracuse University to a career in the NFL.6:51 - Rob reflects on the crucial role of leadership and preparation learned from sports.14:05 - Hear the extraordinary story of survival and resilience during Rob’s unexpected boat accident.29:12 - A look into value creation strategies at Alterna Equity Partners.39:05 - The significance of OKRs and aligning interests for achieving strategic objectives.For more information on Alterna Equity Partners, go to https://www.alternaequitypartners.com/For more information on Rob Konrad, go to https://www.linkedin.com/in/rlk44For more information on...

Explore the role of digital innovation in private equity with Nik Kapauan, Managing Director at Access Holdings. Host Sean Mooney, founder and CEO of BluWave, delves into how Access Holdings applies digital strategies and value creation to enhance middle-market businesses. Learn about Nik's shift from strategy consulting to leading initiatives at Access Holdings, the development of the Access Acceleration Center, and the impact of these efforts on the private equity landscape.Episode Highlights:1:19 - Nik's transition from strategy consulting to impactful work in private equity.4:07 - The importance of strategy consulting experience in private equity.8:10 - How Access Holdings identifies and assesses investment opportunities.14:00 - Enhancing portfolio companies with the Access Acceleration Center's digital and data capabilities.25:15 - Key value creation strategies in today's market.39:54 - Nik shares a personal life hack for managing energy and time effectively.For more information...