Private Equity Podcast: Karma School of Business

From a non-traditional career path to transforming businesses, Micah Dawson shares his playbook for designing business success in private equity with Sean Mooney. Packed with bold career moves, hard-earned lessons, and fresh perspectives, Micah shares how grit, leadership, and a focus on people drive real impact in the lower middle market. [00:03:15][00:06:49][00:22:23][00:26:19][00:37:15] For more information on Trivest Partners, go to Trivest Partners For more information on Micah Dawson, go to Micah Dawson LinkedIn For more information on BluWave and this podcast, go to BluWave Podcasts

What does it take to transform founder-led businesses into industry leaders? In this episode of the Karma School of Business, Sean Mooney sits down with Trent Hickman, Managing Director at VSS Capital Partners, and shares his blueprint for creating value, building trust, and fostering growth alongside visionary management teams that every business builder and private equity professional needs to hear. Episode Highlights 0:34 – Meet Trent Hickman: His journey from Charlotte, NC to becoming a leader in private equity and a passionate ski coach. 13:13 – What makes a great investment? The three key attributes Trent looks for in founder-led businesses. 19:04 – Building strong partnerships with management teams: Insights on aligning visions and maintaining a growth mindset. 22:02 – Innovative approaches to value creation: Using third-party expertise and ensuring multiple ways to win. 35:58 – The importance of embracing change and leveraging external resources to accelerate business success. 40:28 – Advice to the next generation: Trent’s reflections on patience, enjoying the journey, and collaborating to achieve long-term impact. For more information on VSS Capital Partners, go to https://www.vss.com/ For more information on Trent Hickman, go to https://www.linkedin.com/in/trenthickman/ For more information on BluWave and this podcast, go to https://www.bluwave.net/podcasts

Sean Mooney chats with John Hodge, Partner at Rubicon Technology Partners, to explore his inspiring journey from Buffalo, NY, to founding one of the premier private equity firms in enterprise software. John dives into the importance of culture, operational excellence, and aligning with portfolio companies to create value while sharing personal insights on leadership, humility, and change management. Whether you’re a private equity leader or an aspiring entrepreneur, John’s stories, strategies, and advice offer practical wisdom for navigating today’s fast-evolving investment landscape. Episode Highlights 1:09 – John Hodge's Buffalo upbringing, competitive swimming career at Stanford, and the values that shaped his leadership philosophy. 7:56 – How early advice from an industry leader shaped his career path: the leap from biology to tech-focused investment banking. 19:53 – The founding of Rubicon: Why culture, operational discipline, and alignment are the foundation. 29:03 – Rubicon’s hands-on operational model and unique approach to value creation. 40:16 – AI in enterprise software: Driving productivity and advancing product roadmaps. 53:01 – Life lessons: The importance of waking up early, keeping a positive attitude, and never taking yourself too seriously. For more information on Rubicon Technology Partners, go to https://www.rubicontp.com/ For more information on John Hodge, go to https://www.linkedin.com/in/jchodge/ For more information on BluWave and this podcast, go to https://www.bluwave.net/podcasts

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 Highlights 0:35 – 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 lessons on balancing assertiveness, confidence, and warmth for success in work and family life. For more information on Altamont Capital Partners, go to https://altamontcapital.com/ For more information on John Hodge, go to https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-johnson-9275708/ For more information on BluWave and this podcast, go to https://www.bluwave.net/podcasts

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 Highlights 2:15 – 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 value creation and supporting businesses through thoughtful capital allocation. 48:20 – How to craft your own adventure: Lessons in finding energy and fulfillment in your career journey. For more information on Norwest, go to https://www.nvp.com/ For more information on Ran Ding, go to https://www.linkedin.com/in/randing For more information on Chris Scullin, go to https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisscullin/ For more information on BluWave and this podcast, go to https://www.bluwave.net/podcasts

In this special episode, Sean Mooney examines how private equity is evolving to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow. From proactive due diligence to transformative value creation, modern firm operations, and corporate citizenship, Sean explores the key trends shaping the future of the industry and highlights the firms leading the charge. Whether you're a private equity practitioner, portfolio company leader, or aspiring partner, tune in to gain actionable insights into the future of the asset class. Episode Highlights: 1:163:547:2310:1715:5018:01 For more information, and to see the list of the 2025 Top Private Equity Innovators, go to https://www.bluwave.net/awards. To listen to more episodes of the Karma School of Business Podcast, go to https://www.bluwave.net/podcasts.

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 Highlights 2:00 – 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 development function during the pandemic and utilizing data as a competitive advantage. 27:00 – How MidOcean is adapting to industry changes by integrating structured equity, leveraging AI, and forming strategic JVs like their initiative with Kroger. 38:00 – The importance of cybersecurity in private equity-backed companies and actionable advice for protecting businesses. 39:00 – Practical life hacks: From generative AI for daily use to a surprising life-saving maneuver for choking incidents. For more information on MidOcean Partners, go to https://www.midoceanpartners.com/ For more information on Dan Ryan, go to https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-ryan-3324512/ For more information on BluWave and this podcast, go to https://www.bluwave.net/podcasts

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. 1:07 - 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 companies post-investment: building infrastructure, upgrading tech stacks, assembling top-tier teams, and implementing data-driven systems. 23:45 - Practical applications of AI within portfolio companies, including customer service transformations and developer productivity optimization. 32:13 - Preparing for a future shaped by AI and the importance of embedding cutting-edge technology into both operations and product offerings. For more information on Mainsail Partners, go to https://Mainsailpartners.com/ For more information on Vinay Kashyap, go to https://www.linkedin.com/in/vinay-kashyap-3646173 For more information on BluWave and this podcast, go to https://www.bluwave.net/podcasts

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 Highlights 3:07 - 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 messaging for targeted growth. 50:16 - Lisa’s timeless advice on networking and how building authentic connections transforms careers. For more information on Norwest Venture Partners, go to https://www.nvp.com/ For more information on Lisa Ames, go to https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisaames For more information on BluWave and this podcast, go to https://www.bluwave.net/podcasts

In this special Karma School of Business episode, Sean Mooney breaks down key lessons from 2024 and offers predictions for the private equity industry in 2025. Discover what’s driving growth, the challenges firms must navigate, and strategies to leverage emerging trends like AI adoption, reshoring, and evolving M&A markets. Episode Highlights: 2:15 – Looking back at 2024: Stop-and-go momentum, election-year impacts, and why the economy wasn’t as predictable as anticipated. 10:00 – Positive signals for 2025: Stable GDP, moderating inflation, and improving private equity deal activity. 18:30 – Why private equity is shifting from "wartime generals" to growth-focused "peacetime ministers" and what it means for 2025. 26:15 – Breaking down the private equity ecosystem: Emerging trends in M&A, human capital, and AI adoption. 34:00 – Upcoming opportunities: U.S. manufacturing renaissance, reshoring strategies, and advice for firms to stay competitive. 42:30 – The road ahead: How private equity can create its own luck and thrive in the next 5-7 year growth cycle. To request your copy of the Q4 2025 Private Equity Insights Report, visit www.bluwave.net/insights-report.

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 small changes in response time can boost conversion rates dramatically. [00:35:12] Jonathan’s advice on leveraging benchmarking and learning from others to scale faster and more efficiently. For more information on Sagard, go to https://www.sagard.com/ For more information on Jonathan Metrick, go to https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanmetrick For more information on BluWave and this podcast, go to https://www.bluwave.net/podcasts

Sean Mooney sits down with Steve Hunter, Managing Director at TM Capital, to discuss the nuanced world of M&A, the key ingredients for creating value in a business, and what both buyers and sellers need to know for a successful deal. Steve offers practical advice for private equity professionals and business owners, sharing timeless insights from his decades-long career and a behind-the-scenes perspective on helping companies achieve transformational outcomes. Episode Highlights: 1:12 - Steve Hunter shares his journey from rural Pennsylvania to a career in M&A, including his early days at Alex. Brown and Robinson Humphrey. 8:11 - Building value in a business: How to de-risk operations, grow strategically, and attract top buyers by focusing on recurring revenue, growth opportunities, and strong teams. 19:02 - Why every seller should prepare their business as though it’s “sale-ready” from day one to maximize outcomes. 24:48 - The importance of transparency, top-tier advisors, sell-side QofE, and handling the overwhelming volume of data requests during an M&A process. 32:06 - Steve shares advice for buyers: Avoiding abrasiveness, thoroughly preparing for management meetings, and balancing operational oversight post-acquisition. 40:59 - TM Capital’s tailored approach: A Goldilocks strategy with boutique-level customization and deep investment in deal preparation, including advanced data analytics. 44:27 - Steve looks ahead to 2025 and shares why he’s optimistic about a strong year for M&A activity. 51:06 - Insights for life and leadership: The importance of asking for what you want and recognizing that anyone can shape the world around them. For more information on Edison Partners, go to https://www.tmcapital.com/ For more information on Casey Myers, go to https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjhunter For more information on BluWave and this podcast, go to https://www.bluwave.net/podcasts

In this episode, Sean Mooney speaks with Casey Myers, partner at Edison Partners, about leadership, value creation, and growing businesses in the lower middle market. Casey shares his unique operator-driven perspective on driving sustainable growth, evaluating leadership, and solving pain points for customers. Episode Highlights: 2:378:1116:1123:5432:23 For more information on Edison Partners, go to https://www.edisonpartners.com/ For more informatin on Casey Myers, go to https://www.linkedin.com/in/casey-atl For more information on BluWave and this podcast, go to https://www.bluwave.net/podcasts

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):3:20 - John Caple (Hidden Harbor Capital Partners, Episode 57):11:02 - Carl Press (Thoma Bravo, Episode 60):13:13 - Doug Horn (Clairvest, Episode 63):14:58 - Ami Mehta and Joe McIlhattan (Periscope Equity, Episode 64):19:00 - Cory Eaves (BayPine, Episode 66):23:12 - Jessica Ginsberg (LFM Capital, Episode 67):24:52 - Chris Cathcart (The Halifax Group, Episode 72): Episode Links: https://www.bluwave.net/podcasts/grant-kornman-align-collaborate/https://www.bluwave.net/podcasts/john-caple-hidden-harbor/https://www.bluwave.net/podcasts/carl-press-thoma-bravo/https://www.bluwave.net/podcasts/doug-horn-clairvest/ https://www.bluwave.net/podcasts/ami-mehta-joe-mcilhattan-periscope-equity/https://www.bluwave.net/podcasts/cory-eaves-baypine/https://www.bluwave.net/podcasts/jessica-ginsberg-lfm-capital/ https://www.bluwave.net/podcasts/private-equity-spotlight-chris-cathcart-on-cultivating-entrepreneurship-in-pe/ For more information on BluWave and this podcast, go to https://www.bluwave.net/podcasts/

Celebrate the joy of the season with a special message from The Karma School of Business. We're taking this moment to wish you and your loved ones a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays. Enjoy this time with family and friends, and thank you for being a part of our community. For more information on BluWave and this podcast, go to www.bluwave.net/podcasts.

In this special episode, we gather impactful book recommendations from our guests, offering insights into the minds of leading business builders. Episode Highlights: 1:12 - Emily Holdman: Recommends "The Book of Charlie" by David Von Drehle for its profound wisdom and applicability to life changes. https://www.amazon.com/Book-Charlie-Remarkable-American-109-Year-Old/dp/1476773939/ 6:04 - Suzanne Yoon: Shares insights from "Traction" by Gino Wickman, emphasizing the entrepreneurial operating system for accountability and growth. https://www.amazon.com/Traction-Get-Grip-Your-Business/dp/1936661837/ 10:03 - Tim Schulte: Suggests Yuval Noah Harari’s "Sapiens," "Homo Deus," and "21 Lessons for the 21st Century" as thought-provoking reads on humanity and its future. https://www.amazon.com/Sapiens-Humankind-Yuval-Noah-Harari/dp/0062316117/ https://www.amazon.com/Homo-Deus-Brief-History-Tomorrow/dp/0062464345/ https://www.amazon.com/Lessons-21st-Century-Yuval-Harari/dp/0525512195/ 12:00 - Eric Hansen: Describes "The Loop Files" by Rick Kaempfer and "The Mosquito Bowl" by Buzz Bissinger for their engaging historical narratives. https://www.amazon.com/Loop-Files-History-Outrageous-Station/dp/B0CNH5TZSQ/ https://www.amazon.com/Mosquito-Bowl-Game-Death-World/dp/0062879936/ 16:43 - Josh Adams: Highlights "What It Takes" by Stephen Schwarzman, "Greenlights" by Matthew McConaughey and "Shoe Dog" by Phil Knight emphasizing the engaging storytelling and life lessons. https://www.amazon.com/What-Takes-Lessons-Pursuit-Excellence/dp/1501158147/ https://www.amazon.com/Greenlights-Matthew-McConaughey/dp/0593139135/ https://www.amazon.com/Shoe-Dog-Memoir-Creator-Nike/dp/1501135910/ 19:31 - Bob Belke: Discusses "Die With Zero" by Bill Perkins, advocating for investing in life experiences, and "The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari" by Robin Sharma for its insights on living a fulfilled life. https://www.amazon.com/Die-Zero-Getting-Your-Money/dp/0358567092/ https://www.amazon.com/Monk-Who-Sold-His-Ferrari/dp/0062515675/ 26:34 - John Stewart: Talks about "Building a Second Brain" by Tiago Forte, which outlines a methodology for organizing information efficiently. https://www.amazon.com/Building-Second-Brain-Organize-Potential/dp/1982167386/ 31:45 - Erik Ginsberg: Recommends "Leadership and Self Deception" by The Arbinger Institute for its insights on self-awareness and organizational behavior. https://www.amazon.com/Leadership-Self-Deception-Fourth-Transforming-Relationships/dp/1523006560/ 33:21 - Darren Herman: Offers "Startup" by Jerry Kaplan for its diary-format insights on building a technology company, and reflects on "Catcher in the Rye" by J.D. Salinger as an inspirational read. https://www.amazon.com/Startup-Silicon-Adventure-Jerry-Kaplan/dp/0140257314/ https://www.amazon.com/Catcher-Rye-J-D-Salinger/dp/0316769177/ 37:16 - Christian Bullitt: Suggests "The Fund" by Rob Copeland, describing Bridgewater Associates' unique corporate culture. https://www.amazon.com/Fund-Bridgewater-Associates-Unraveling-Street/dp/1250276934/ For more information on BluWave and this podcast, go to www.bluwave.net/podcasts.

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: 1:054:146:5114:0529:1239:05 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/rlk44 For more information on BluWave and this podcast, go to https://www.bluwave.net/podcasts/

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: For more information on Access Holdings, go to https://accessholdings.com/ For more information on Nik Kapauan, go to https://www.linkedin.com/in/nkapauan For more information on BluWave and this podcast, go to https://www.bluwave.net/podcasts/

Explore strategic exits and sustained growth in private equity with Doug McCormick of HCI Equity Partners and Lloyd Metz of ICV Partners. This special crossover episode delves into optimal timing for selling companies, the significance of building durable business models, and prioritizing long-term value. Learn how private equity navigates exit complexities, the importance of early strategic initiatives, and innovative exit strategies like partnership deals and continuation vehicles. Episode Highlights: To listen to the Best But Never Final podcast, go to https://bestbutneverfinal.buzzsprout.com/ For more information about ICV Partners, go to https://icvpartners.com/ For more information about HCI Equity Partners, go to https://hciequity.com/ For more information on BluWave and this podcast, go to https://bluwave.net/podcasts/

In this insightful episode of the Karma School of Business podcast, host Sean Mooney, Founder and CEO of BluWave, engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Jon Pressnell, Partner at Blue Point Capital Partners. They delve into the multifaceted world of private equity, the strategic business building, and the unique philanthropic initiative, Blue Point Cares, which exemplifies a novel way of supporting portfolio companies. Jon shares his journey from a potential career in social work and dentistry to becoming a key player in private equity, highlighting the influence of his upbringing on his professional path and philanthropic endeavors. Episode Highlights: For more information on the Blue Point Cares program, go to https://www.bluepointcapital.com/news/blue-point-launches-support-program-for-portfolio-company-employees-facing-unexpected-hardships For more information on Blue Point Capital, go to https://www.bluepointcapital.com/ For more information on Jon Pressnell, go to https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-pressnell For more information on BluWave and this podcast, go to https://www.bluwave.net/podcasts