Tariffs are at the center of a rapidly changing global trade landscape, creating both challenges and opportunities for businesses. In this episode, Sean Mooney, Lloyd Metz, and Doug McCormick are joined by Michael Allen, co-founder of Beacon Global Strategies, to explore the state of U.S. trade policy, its impact on private equity, and how business…

Merger integration is a critical component of private equity strategies, especially in buy-and-build models. In this episode, Sean Mooney, Lloyd Metz, and Doug McCormick break down what it takes to successfully integrate acquisitions, why careful planning is essential, and the risks that come with getting it wrong. From cultural alignment and chang…

In this featured episode, we’re excited to share a conversation from Thoma Bravo’s Behind the Deal podcast. Join managing partner Holden Spaht as he sits down with Leagh Turner, CEO of Coupa, to explore how Thoma Bravo and Coupa are revolutionizing business spend management, leveraging AI, and driving innovation post-acquisition. Hear how Coupa is …

In this episode, Sean Mooney, Doug McCormick, and Lloyd Metz are joined by Carl Press of Thoma Bravo and Kevin MacDonald, CEO of Bluesight, to share a behind-the-scenes look at scaling a software company from a bootstrap startup to a private equity-backed category leader. Kevin reflects on his fourteen-year journey, from self-funding and navigating…

In this insightful conversation, Doug McCormick, Lloyd Metz, and Sean Mooney tackle the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in private equity and beyond. Sean shares how his company, BluWave, has leveraged AI to streamline operations, enhance decision-making, and create proprietary competitive advantages. The discussion explores act…

This special replay highlights an essential episode on how private equity firms identify where to invest and how to strategically source opportunities. Doug McCormick and Lloyd Metz join Sean Mooney to explore the art of specialization, building investment theses, and balancing focus with innovation. They share insights into why focus matters for b…

Kicking off a new series on emerging investment themes, Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney examine the profound effects of geopolitical complexity on private equity. This episode explores the growing trend of supply chain reshoring, the rise of infrastructure services, and how enterprises are grappling with heightened risks in today’s dyna…

In this episode, Golub Capital’s Senior Managing Director, Greg Cashman, joins Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney to uncover the critical role of direct lenders in private equity. Greg shares Golub’s transition from private equity to direct lending, the importance of alignment between lenders and PE sponsors, and their underwriting strateg…

Hosts Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney review the major themes shaping private equity in 2024, including liquidity challenges, market shifts, and investor dynamics. They discuss strategies to prepare for 2025 amid potential changes in interest rates, inflation, and emerging opportunities in industrials, food, and infrastructure services.…

In this episode, hosts Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney are joined by Paul Ryan, former Speaker of the House, now a partner at Solamere Capital. Speaker Ryan delves into his transition from a distinguished career in public service to the private equity sector, highlighting his enduring passion for economics and his strategic choice to fo…

In this encore presentation from February 20th, Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney discuss the strategic considerations behind exiting a private equity investment. With an anticipated wave of deals in the coming year, understanding when to sell and how to do it effectively is crucial. This episode covers the importance of exit timing, vari…

Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, Sean Mooney, and operating partners Mary Rachide from ICV and Bob Hund from HCI delve into value creation in private equity. They discuss the role of operating partners in enhancing portfolio company growth, from due diligence to strategic execution. The episode covers aligning company vision with actionable strategies, …

Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney share pivotal experiences from their private equity careers, focusing on due diligence surprises, the impact of personal challenges on professional relationships, and complex business scenarios. They emphasize the importance of comprehensive background checks, cultural sensitivity in international deals, …

In this episode of 'Best But Never Final,' Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney discuss the importance of strategic talent management in private equity. They explore the transition from traditional HR to advanced human capital strategies, emphasizing the critical role of hiring, team building, and organizational design in driving business su…

In this engaging episode of 'Best But Never Final,' hosts Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney welcome David Freed, a seasoned professional with extensive experience across the private equity, technology, and operational landscapes. Freed shares his journey from operating roles within portfolio companies to co-founding CP Energy Holdings, fo…

We're in the heart of private equity's busiest season with Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney in this episode of 'Best But Never Final.' They tackle the fall deal rush, a period brimming with new deals and rigorous due diligence. The hosts share insights on efficiently assessing opportunities, focusing on key tools like Quality of Earnings…

Join Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, Sean Mooney, and special guest Rob Brown, CEO of Lincoln International, as they discuss the significant changes in private equity and investment banking from the early 2000s to today. This episode covers the pivotal role of company culture in driving growth, adapting to economic shifts, and the strategic use of tech…

Explore the critical aspects of capital structure in the private equity sector with insights from Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney. This episode breaks down the strategic use of debt versus equity, the implications of leveraging, and the nuances of maintaining lender relationships. It offers a focused look at how private equity professio…

In this episode of Best But Never Final, join Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick and Sean Mooney as they delve into the seasonal nuances of the private equity world during the summer months. This episode offers a candid look at how private equity professionals balance the demands of work with personal time, reflecting on the impact of summer on investment …

In this episode, hosts Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney, alongside their expertise in private equity, delve into the nuanced practice of granting equity to employees within portfolio companies. They discuss the strategic importance of aligning incentives, attracting top talent, and instilling an ownership mindset throughout the organizat…

Dive into an insightful exploration of the critical decision-making process within private equity regarding the timing of exits. Hosts Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney dissect the lifecycle of a deal, emphasizing the strategic considerations that guide private equity firms in determining the optimal moment to sell. From the initial value…

Episode Description: Explore the complexities of private equity's strategic approaches to buying and selling across fluctuating market cycles in this episode of "Best But Never Final." Hosts Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney unpack the essence of private equity operations amidst economic uncertainties, offering a rich discussion on how to…

In this episode of "Best But Never Final," hosts Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, Sean Mooney, and special guest Dave Roberts from Houlihan Lokey explore the shifting landscape of M&A markets and the strategic maneuvers private equity firms employ in response. Episode Highlights: 1:04 - Introduction of Dave Roberts and the evolving M&A market's impact o…

In this episode of "Best But Never Final," join Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney as they navigate the choppy waters of today's economic landscape and its implications for private equity portfolio companies. Amidst moderate inflation, groundbreaking technological advancements, and significant geopolitical risks, our hosts dissect how thes…

Dive deep into the heart of private equity diligence processes with Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney in this insightful episode of "Best But Never Final." The trio unravels the complexities of third-party diligence, shedding light on the essential tools that private equity firms employ to assess, verify, and envision the potential of the…

In this engaging episode of "Best But Never Final," hosts Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney demystify the pivotal role of the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) within the private equity (PE) landscape. As they navigate through the multifaceted responsibilities and evolving nature of the CFO role, the discussion illuminates why a strategic CFO…

In this episode of "Best But Never Final," delve into the evolving landscape of career entry points into the private equity industry with hosts Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney. The trio, seasoned in the nuances of private equity, dissect the journey from traditional roles in investment banking and consulting to the increasingly recogniz…

In this episode of Best But Never Final Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney dive into the heart of private equity's strategic decision-making and deal sourcing processes. This episode peels back the layers on how private equity firms identify their investment focus, align with Limited Partners' (LPs) expectations, and navigate the competiti…

About the Episode: In this enlightening episode of "Best But Never Final," hosts Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney delve into the intricate process of value creation within the private equity landscape, from the perspective of both the PE firm and the portfolio company CEO. Featuring Scott Milberg, CEO of AmerCareRoyal, a portfolio company of HCI Equ…

About the Episode: In this episode of "Best But Never Final," Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney dissect the intricate incentive structures and financial mechanics at the heart of the private equity world. They embark on a detailed exploration of how limited partners (LPs) kickstart the momentum within the private equity sphere, influencin…

In this insightful episode of "Best But Never Final," join hosts Sean Mooney, Doug McCormick, and Lloyd Metz as they delve into the critical phase of private equity – the exit strategy. Learn how seasoned professionals approach the endgame of their investment journey, ensuring they've built businesses that can withstand market volatility and attrac…

Welcome to the third episode of "Best But Never Final," where private equity (PE) veterans Sean Mooney, Doug McCormick, and Lloyd Metz usher in the new year with a candid discussion on the lessons learned and the strategies for the future. As we turn the calendar page, our hosts delve into the significance of year-end reflection, the importance of …

Dive into "Best But Never Final," where hosts Sean Mooney, Lloyd Metz, and Doug McCormick unfold the blueprint for transformative growth in private equity (PE). This episode, a beacon for investors and entrepreneurs alike, reveals how PE experts craft a future of prosperity for potential investments before the ink dries on the deal. Uncover the str…

Welcome to the inaugural episode of "Best But Never Final," the podcast that grants you exclusive access to the private equity (PE) playbook, unlocking the secrets of market mastery, business model optimization, and team excellence. Join our esteemed hosts—Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney—as they guide you through the corridors of privat…

The "Best But Never Final" podcast is a treasure trove of actionable insights for business builders, presented by a trio of seasoned private equity veterans. This podcast is an essential resource for mid-level, early-career private equity professionals, founders, CEOs, and anyone interested in the transformative power of private equity. Our hosts b…