Join host Sean Mooney and Brian Bank, a seasoned strategy and client relations executive from Kirkland & Ellis, for an enlightening discussion on the private equity landscape. With over 25 years of experience as both an institutional limited partner and placement agent, Brian delves into the nuances of fundraising, the evolving role of ESG, and the transformation of annual meetings in the post-COVID era, leveraging his extensive background and deep network within the investment funds community.Key Highlights:3:12 - Fundraising Dynamics: Insights into current trends and challenges.5:32 - Mid-Market Success: The importance of LP relationships.18:22 - Continuation Funds: Their reshaping role in private equity.35:12 - ESG's Growing Influence: On investment strategies.43:56 - Annual Meetings Evolved: Innovative approaches in a digital age.For more information on Kirkland & Ellis, go to https://www.kirkland.comFor more information on Brian Bank, go to https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandbank...

In this episode of the "Karma School of Business Podcast," host Sean Mooney interviews John Stewart, founder and managing partner of MiddleGround Capital. They explore John's unconventional journey from a college dropout and night shift worker at Toyota to leading a private equity firm that champions operational excellence and entrepreneurial spirit.Episode Highlights: 1:24 - John's unconventional journey from Toyota to private equity. 4:22 - How operational expertise inspired MiddleGround Capital's vision. 6:52 - Applying lean manufacturing principles to private equity. 9:12 - MiddleGround's unique value creation approach. 16:40 - Overcoming challenges in building MiddleGround Capital. 23:44 - John's advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. 29:04 - John recommends "Building a Second Brain" for efficiency.For more information on MiddleGround Capital, go to https://middleground.com/ For more information on John Stewart, go to https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnstewartky To purchase John's book,...

In the "Karma School of Business Podcast," host Sean Mooney talks with Joe McIlhattan and Ami Mehta of Periscope Equity about their unique collaboration in private equity. They discuss the integration of deal-making and operational excellence, illustrating the firm's innovative approach and teamwork-driven success.Episode Highlights: 2:17 - Joe's transition from consulting to private equity. 3:01 - Ami's journey from auditing to operational excellence. 5:49 - Ami's focus shift to investment growth and operations. 9:08 - Traits sought in potential investments. 23:29 - Orchestrating deal and ops team synergy at Periscope Equity. 33:51 - Investing in tech-enabled service companies. 41:04 - The importance of culture in driving success. 48:52 - Advice for aspiring private equity professionals.For more information on Periscope Equity, go to https://periscopeequity.com/ For more information on Ami Mehta, go to https://www.linkedin.com/in/ami-mehta/ For more information on Joe McIlhattan, go...