Brian Neider, Managing Partner at Lead Edge Capital, joins BluWave CEO Sean Mooney to break down what great private equity investing really looks like — from systematic sourcing to building one of the most engaged LP networks in the industry. This episode is packed with real-world lessons from 20 years of disciplined execution and growth equity innovation.Episode Highlights:[1:09] Brian’s early lessons in entrepreneurship from running a vending business to building top-of-funnel strategy at Bessemer[6:09] How 20,000 cold calls built the foundation for Lead Edge Capital’s thesis-driven sourcing[17:06] The 8-point “strike zone” framework Lead Edge uses to evaluate private equity opportunities[27:06] How Lead Edge’s LP network drives differentiated value creation and portfolio company support[34:30] The role of instrumentation and data discipline in unlocking portfolio performance[39:57] Advice to early-career professionals: treat your time, relationships, and decisions like investments...

In this episode of Karma School of Business, Sean Mooney speaks with Don McDonough, Managing Director at GTCR, about his career in private equity and his role in building GTCR’s business development function.Episode Highlights:1:24 - Path to Private Equity: Don’s journey from investment banking to private equity and his early career experiences.4:56 - Leadership Lessons: How sports and teamwork shaped Don’s approach to leadership and problem-solving.10:09 - Building a New Role: Challenges and strategies in developing GTCR’s business development function.27:04 - Value Creation Themes: GTCR’s focus on technology, AI, and proactive risk management strategies to drive portfolio growth.33:02 - Advice to Younger Self: Don’s insights on identifying strengths, following passions, and seeking mentorship.For more information on GTCR, go to https://www.gtcr.com/For more information on Don McDonough, go to https://www.linkedin.com/in/don-mcdonough-a6a3611

In this special episode of Karma School of Business, Sean Mooney revisits insights from previous conversations with some of private equity’s most thoughtful leaders. These experts highlight the "elements of value" they prioritize when evaluating companies for investment, offering actionable frameworks and lessons learned across industries, geographies, and strategies.Episode Highlights:01:11 - Nik Kapauan shares Access Holdings’ research-driven approach to identifying segment leaders and defining "what good looks like" in fragmented industries.07:10 - Rob Konrad discusses the critical role of people and alignment when partnering with family-owned businesses in the lower middle market.21:11 - Casey Myers emphasizes leadership, product-market fit, and overcoming tech debt for durable, smart growth in software companies.28:24 - Jonathan Metrick explores the power of identifying superpowers in business and relentlessly prioritizing resources to create competitive advantage.35:29 - Lisa...

In this special episode, Sean Mooney joins Doug McCormick (HCI Equity Partners) and Lloyd Metz (ICV Partners) to explore the transformative impact of AI on private equity, portfolio companies, and everyday life. From optimizing portfolio company operations to driving innovation in deal sourcing and content creation, this discussion provides actionable insights into how leading firms are leveraging AI to create competitive advantages. Whether you’re an investor, executive, or business builder, this episode is packed with strategies to embrace AI’s potential in your organization.Episode Highlights:12:51 - Sean outlines a practical framework for engaging with AI tools, emphasizing the benefits of experimenting with large language models like ChatGPT and Perplexity as a first step.20:23 - Concrete advice for individuals and business owners: Train your social media algorithms and experiment with AI to unlock strategic insights.25:23 - How AI applications, such as ChatGPT, can enhance...

In this episode of the Karma School of Business podcast, Kristin Johnson, Managing Director at Altamont Capital Partners, shares actionable advice for building stronger businesses and teams with Sean Mooney. From fostering leadership to embracing innovative practices like AI and employee ownership, Kristin offers a perspective that resonates with business builders and investors alike.Episode Highlights0:35 – Getting to know Kristin Johnson: Her global upbringing, track & field triumphs, and early career influences.8:27 – What Kristin and the Altamont team look for in a business: market potential, leadership, and company dynamics.13:41 – The importance of fostering transparency and the role of the “devil’s advocate” team in decision-making.17:29 – Driving value creation: Altamont’s approach to functional expertise and the promise of AI in portfolio companies.23:47 – Tactics for sustained growth and alignment among employees.29:55 – Kristin’s must-read book recommendations and the...

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...