Insightful Investor

Alex Shahidi

The Insightful Investor is a weekly podcast hosted by Alex Shahidi, Co-CIO of one of the nation’s leading RIAs. In a conversational, “fireside chat” format, Alex interacts with some of the world’s premier investors and business icons to share market insights rarely found elsewhere. While many investors echo common sentiments, our “insights” include concepts that we believe are counterintuitive, widely misunderstood, or underappreciated. With over two decades of experience managing billions of dollars in client assets, Alex offers unique access to some of the industry’s top thinkers. He has authored two investment books and contributed to leading journals, and he consistently ranks among the elite financial advisors by Forbes and Barron’s. As an independent and innovative voice, Alex offers a fresh take on investing. We invite you to tune in and would love to hear your feedback. https://insightfulinvestor.org/

  1. 1d ago

    #147 - Rich Powers: Vanguard’s Vision for Private Markets

    Rich is Head of Private Equity Product Management at Vanguard, which manages more than $13 trillion in global assets (as of 7/31/26). We discuss Vanguard’s push into private markets, the evolving cases for private equity and private credit, liquidity and manager selection, and how lower costs and better access could reshape alternatives. - Past performance is not indicative of future results. This podcast/webcast is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, investment, or business advice. It is not a solicitation, recommendation, or endorsement. All opinions expressed by participants are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the MAI Capital Management, LLC ("MAI"), its affiliates, or any companies mentioned. Information shared has not been independently verified by MAI or its affiliates. MAI Capital Management, LLC is an investment adviser registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Evoke is a division of MAI. Certain information contained herein has been obtained from third party sources and such information has not been independently verified. No representation, warranty, or undertaking, expressed or implied, is given to the accuracy or completeness of such information by any person. While such sources are believed to be reliable, MAI does not assume any responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of such information. MAI does not undertake any obligation to update the information contained herein as of any future date. The content is intended for a general audience and does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell securities or adopt any investment strategy. Any examples or scenarios discussed are illustrative only, involve risks and uncertainties, and do not guarantee future results. Non-traditional assets carry significant risks and may not be suitable for all investors. Decisions should be based on individual objectives, risk tolerance, and circumstances. Statements herein are general and may not reflect an individual's or entity's specific circumstances or applicable laws, which vary by jurisdiction. Further, speakers' views are personal and may differ from MAI recommendations and are not specific investment advice; and do not consider client objectives, risk tolerance, and diversification. Guests may have current or past relationships with MAI, its affiliates, or the host, including as clients, service providers, or business partners. Participation does not constitute an endorsement or testimonial. No compensation has been paid or received for guest participation unless disclosed. MAI and its affiliates may have business relationships with entities mentioned in this podcast, which could create potential conflicts of interest. These relationships may include advisory services, investment management, or other arrangements. MAI seeks to manage such conflicts consistent with its fiduciary obligations and policies.

    #147 - Rich Powers: Vanguard’s Vision for Private Markets
  2. Oct 27

    Jim Carey: Durable Financial Services Businesses

    Jim, Co-CEO of Stone Point Capital, discusses building one of the leading financial services-focused investment firms, which manages $80B in assets (as of July 31, 2026). He shares lessons from three decades of investing, including how to identify durable businesses, navigate complexity, avoid common behavioral pitfalls, and think about the opportunities and limits of AI in investing. - Past performance is not indicative of future results. This podcast/webcast is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, investment, or business advice. It is not a solicitation, recommendation, or endorsement. All opinions expressed by participants are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the MAI Capital Management, LLC ("MAI"), its affiliates, or any companies mentioned. Information shared has not been independently verified by MAI or its affiliates. MAI Capital Management, LLC is an investment adviser registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Evoke is a division of MAI. Certain information contained herein has been obtained from third party sources and such information has not been independently verified. No representation, warranty, or undertaking, expressed or implied, is given to the accuracy or completeness of such information by any person. While such sources are believed to be reliable, MAI does not assume any responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of such information. MAI does not undertake any obligation to update the information contained herein as of any future date. The content is intended for a general audience and does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell securities or adopt any investment strategy. Any examples or scenarios discussed are illustrative only, involve risks and uncertainties, and do not guarantee future results. Non-traditional assets carry significant risks and may not be suitable for all investors. Decisions should be based on individual objectives, risk tolerance, and circumstances. Statements herein are general and may not reflect an individual's or entity's specific circumstances or applicable laws, which vary by jurisdiction. Further, speakers' views are personal and may differ from MAI recommendations and are not specific investment advice; and do not consider client objectives, risk tolerance, and diversification. Guests may have current or past relationships with MAI, its affiliates, or the host, including as clients, service providers, or business partners. Participation does not constitute an endorsement or testimonial. No compensation has been paid or received for guest participation unless disclosed. MAI and its affiliates may have business relationships with entities mentioned in this podcast, which could create potential conflicts of interest. These relationships may include advisory services, investment management, or other arrangements. MAI seeks to manage such conflicts consistent with its fiduciary obligations and policies.

    Jim Carey: Durable Financial Services Businesses
  3. Oct 20

    Jennifer Prosek: The Business of Reputation

    Jen is the Founder and CEO of Prosek Partners, a leading strategic communications and marketing firm that has advised many of the world's largest asset managers, private equity firms, hedge funds, and financial institutions. We discuss what exceptional founders understand about reputation, how brand creates competitive advantage, the future of communications in an AI-driven world, and why trust remains one of the most valuable assets a business can build. - Past performance is not indicative of future results. This podcast/webcast is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, investment, or business advice. It is not a solicitation, recommendation, or endorsement. All opinions expressed by participants are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the MAI Capital Management, LLC ("MAI"), its affiliates, or any companies mentioned. Information shared has not been independently verified by MAI or its affiliates. MAI Capital Management, LLC is an investment adviser registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Evoke is a division of MAI. Certain information contained herein has been obtained from third party sources and such information has not been independently verified. No representation, warranty, or undertaking, expressed or implied, is given to the accuracy or completeness of such information by any person. While such sources are believed to be reliable, MAI does not assume any responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of such information. MAI does not undertake any obligation to update the information contained herein as of any future date. The content is intended for a general audience and does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell securities or adopt any investment strategy. Any examples or scenarios discussed are illustrative only, involve risks and uncertainties, and do not guarantee future results. Non-traditional assets carry significant risks and may not be suitable for all investors. Decisions should be based on individual objectives, risk tolerance, and circumstances. Statements herein are general and may not reflect an individual's or entity's specific circumstances or applicable laws, which vary by jurisdiction. Further, speakers' views are personal and may differ from MAI recommendations and are not specific investment advice; and do not consider client objectives, risk tolerance, and diversification. Guests may have current or past relationships with MAI, its affiliates, or the host, including as clients, service providers, or business partners. Participation does not constitute an endorsement or testimonial. No compensation has been paid or received for guest participation unless disclosed. MAI and its affiliates may have business relationships with entities mentioned in this podcast, which could create potential conflicts of interest. These relationships may include advisory services, investment management, or other arrangements. MAI seeks to manage such conflicts consistent with its fiduciary obligations and policies.

    Jennifer Prosek: The Business of Reputation
  4. Oct 13

    Al Chu: The Structural Case for Natural Resources

    Al is a natural resources portfolio manager at Man Group, a $253B alternatives asset manager (as of 6/30/26), and previously held senior investment roles at BNY Mellon, Citadel, SAC Capital, and Caxton. He explains the structural case for natural resources, examining geopolitics, deglobalization, inflation, climate volatility, AI-driven demand, and the role of resource equities in long-term portfolios. - Past performance is not indicative of future results. This podcast/webcast is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, investment, or business advice. It is not a solicitation, recommendation, or endorsement. All opinions expressed by participants are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the MAI Capital Management, LLC ("MAI"), its affiliates, or any companies mentioned. Information shared has not been independently verified by MAI or its affiliates. MAI Capital Management, LLC is an investment adviser registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Evoke is a division of MAI. Certain information contained herein has been obtained from third party sources and such information has not been independently verified. No representation, warranty, or undertaking, expressed or implied, is given to the accuracy or completeness of such information by any person. While such sources are believed to be reliable, MAI does not assume any responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of such information. MAI does not undertake any obligation to update the information contained herein as of any future date. The content is intended for a general audience and does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell securities or adopt any investment strategy. Any examples or scenarios discussed are illustrative only, involve risks and uncertainties, and do not guarantee future results. Non-traditional assets carry significant risks and may not be suitable for all investors. Decisions should be based on individual objectives, risk tolerance, and circumstances. Statements herein are general and may not reflect an individual's or entity's specific circumstances or applicable laws, which vary by jurisdiction. Further, speakers' views are personal and may differ from MAI recommendations and are not specific investment advice; and do not consider client objectives, risk tolerance, and diversification. Guests may have current or past relationships with MAI, its affiliates, or the host, including as clients, service providers, or business partners. Participation does not constitute an endorsement or testimonial. No compensation has been paid or received for guest participation unless disclosed. MAI and its affiliates may have business relationships with entities mentioned in this podcast, which could create potential conflicts of interest. These relationships may include advisory services, investment management, or other arrangements. MAI seeks to manage such conflicts consistent with its fiduciary obligations and policies.

    Al Chu: The Structural Case for Natural Resources
  5. Oct 6

    Jeffrey Sherman: Preparing for a New Regime

    This interview was recorded on September 9th 2026. Some references made may now be outdated.Jeffrey is Deputy CIO at DoubleLine Capital, which manages approximately $97 billion in assets (as of June 30, 2026). We discuss the forces likely to define the next decade, including fiscal dominance, inflation, government debt, AI-driven infrastructure spending, credit opportunities, and how investors can build portfolios prepared for a very different market regime. - Past performance is not indicative of future results. This podcast/webcast is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, investment, or business advice. It is not a solicitation, recommendation, or endorsement. All opinions expressed by participants are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the MAI Capital Management, LLC ("MAI"), its affiliates, or any companies mentioned. Information shared has not been independently verified by MAI or its affiliates. MAI Capital Management, LLC is an investment adviser registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Evoke is a division of MAI. Certain information contained herein has been obtained from third party sources and such information has not been independently verified. No representation, warranty, or undertaking, expressed or implied, is given to the accuracy or completeness of such information by any person. While such sources are believed to be reliable, MAI does not assume any responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of such information. MAI does not undertake any obligation to update the information contained herein as of any future date. The content is intended for a general audience and does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell securities or adopt any investment strategy. Any examples or scenarios discussed are illustrative only, involve risks and uncertainties, and do not guarantee future results. Non-traditional assets carry significant risks and may not be suitable for all investors. Decisions should be based on individual objectives, risk tolerance, and circumstances. Statements herein are general and may not reflect an individual's or entity's specific circumstances or applicable laws, which vary by jurisdiction. Further, speakers' views are personal and may differ from MAI recommendations and are not specific investment advice; and do not consider client objectives, risk tolerance, and diversification. Guests may have current or past relationships with MAI, its affiliates, or the host, including as clients, service providers, or business partners. Participation does not constitute an endorsement or testimonial. No compensation has been paid or received for guest participation unless disclosed. MAI and its affiliates may have business relationships with entities mentioned in this podcast, which could create potential conflicts of interest. These relationships may include advisory services, investment management, or other arrangements. MAI seeks to manage such conflicts consistent with its fiduciary obligations and policies.

    Jeffrey Sherman: Preparing for a New Regime
  6. Sep 29

    Todd Ahlsten: AI, Moats, and Quality

    Todd is CIO of Parnassus Investments, a pioneer in responsible investing founded in 1984 that manages approximately $41B in assets (as of 6/30/26). Todd shares lessons from more than three decades of investing, discussing how durable competitive advantages and increasing relevance can drive long-term compounding, how Parnassus approaches quality and concentration, and where he sees both the promise and pitfalls of today's AI investment cycle. - Past performance is not indicative of future results. This podcast/webcast is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, investment, or business advice. It is not a solicitation, recommendation, or endorsement. All opinions expressed by participants are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the MAI Capital Management, LLC ("MAI"), its affiliates, or any companies mentioned. Information shared has not been independently verified by MAI or its affiliates. MAI Capital Management, LLC is an investment adviser registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Evoke is a division of MAI. Certain information contained herein has been obtained from third party sources and such information has not been independently verified. No representation, warranty, or undertaking, expressed or implied, is given to the accuracy or completeness of such information by any person. While such sources are believed to be reliable, MAI does not assume any responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of such information. MAI does not undertake any obligation to update the information contained herein as of any future date. The content is intended for a general audience and does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell securities or adopt any investment strategy. Any examples or scenarios discussed are illustrative only, involve risks and uncertainties, and do not guarantee future results. Non-traditional assets carry significant risks and may not be suitable for all investors. Decisions should be based on individual objectives, risk tolerance, and circumstances. Statements herein are general and may not reflect an individual's or entity's specific circumstances or applicable laws, which vary by jurisdiction. Further, speakers' views are personal and may differ from MAI recommendations and are not specific investment advice; and do not consider client objectives, risk tolerance, and diversification. Guests may have current or past relationships with MAI, its affiliates, or the host, including as clients, service providers, or business partners. Participation does not constitute an endorsement or testimonial. No compensation has been paid or received for guest participation unless disclosed. MAI and its affiliates may have business relationships with entities mentioned in this podcast, which could create potential conflicts of interest. These relationships may include advisory services, investment management, or other arrangements. MAI seeks to manage such conflicts consistent with its fiduciary obligations and policies.

    Todd Ahlsten: AI, Moats, and Quality
  7. Sep 22

    Peter Mintzberg: The Case for Digital Assets

    Peter is CEO of Grayscale Investments, one of the largest digital-asset-focused investment platforms in the country. Peter discusses the investment case for digital assets, institutional adoption, tokenization, regulation, the intersection of AI and blockchain, and what the future of investing may look like as digital asset markets mature. - Past performance is not indicative of future results. This podcast/webcast is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, investment, or business advice. It is not a solicitation, recommendation, or endorsement. All opinions expressed by participants are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the MAI Capital Management, LLC ("MAI"), its affiliates, or any companies mentioned. Information shared has not been independently verified by MAI or its affiliates. MAI Capital Management, LLC is an investment adviser registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Evoke is a division of MAI. Certain information contained herein has been obtained from third party sources and such information has not been independently verified. No representation, warranty, or undertaking, expressed or implied, is given to the accuracy or completeness of such information by any person. While such sources are believed to be reliable, MAI does not assume any responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of such information. MAI does not undertake any obligation to update the information contained herein as of any future date. The content is intended for a general audience and does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell securities or adopt any investment strategy. Any examples or scenarios discussed are illustrative only, involve risks and uncertainties, and do not guarantee future results. Non-traditional assets carry significant risks and may not be suitable for all investors. Decisions should be based on individual objectives, risk tolerance, and circumstances. Statements herein are general and may not reflect an individual's or entity's specific circumstances or applicable laws, which vary by jurisdiction. Further, speakers' views are personal and may differ from MAI recommendations and are not specific investment advice; and do not consider client objectives, risk tolerance, and diversification. Guests may have current or past relationships with MAI, its affiliates, or the host, including as clients, service providers, or business partners. Participation does not constitute an endorsement or testimonial. No compensation has been paid or received for guest participation unless disclosed. MAI and its affiliates may have business relationships with entities mentioned in this podcast, which could create potential conflicts of interest. These relationships may include advisory services, investment management, or other arrangements. MAI seeks to manage such conflicts consistent with its fiduciary obligations and policies.

    Peter Mintzberg: The Case for Digital Assets
  8. Sep 15

    Peter Kraus: Incentives vs Alpha

    Peter is the Co-Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Aperture Investors, an alternative investment manager with $6.7B in AUM as of June 2026. Drawing on his experience as CEO of AllianceBernstein and Co-Head of Goldman Sachs Asset Management, he explains how incentives may shape investment outcomes, why asset gathering often conflicts with alpha generation, how investors can better distinguish skill from luck, and why manager selection may become increasingly important in a changing market environment. - Past performance is not indicative of future results. This podcast/webcast is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, investment, or business advice. It is not a solicitation, recommendation, or endorsement. All opinions expressed by participants are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the MAI Capital Management, LLC ("MAI"), its affiliates, or any companies mentioned. Information shared has not been independently verified by MAI or its affiliates. MAI Capital Management, LLC is an investment adviser registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Evoke is a division of MAI. Certain information contained herein has been obtained from third party sources and such information has not been independently verified. No representation, warranty, or undertaking, expressed or implied, is given to the accuracy or completeness of such information by any person. While such sources are believed to be reliable, MAI does not assume any responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of such information. MAI does not undertake any obligation to update the information contained herein as of any future date. The content is intended for a general audience and does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell securities or adopt any investment strategy. Any examples or scenarios discussed are illustrative only, involve risks and uncertainties, and do not guarantee future results. Non-traditional assets carry significant risks and may not be suitable for all investors. Decisions should be based on individual objectives, risk tolerance, and circumstances. Statements herein are general and may not reflect an individual's or entity's specific circumstances or applicable laws, which vary by jurisdiction. Further, speakers' views are personal and may differ from MAI recommendations and are not specific investment advice; and do not consider client objectives, risk tolerance, and diversification. Guests may have current or past relationships with MAI, its affiliates, or the host, including as clients, service providers, or business partners. Participation does not constitute an endorsement or testimonial. No compensation has been paid or received for guest participation unless disclosed. MAI and its affiliates may have business relationships with entities mentioned in this podcast, which could create potential conflicts of interest. These relationships may include advisory services, investment management, or other arrangements. MAI seeks to manage such conflicts consistent with its fiduciary obligations and policies.

    Peter Kraus: Incentives vs Alpha

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About

The Insightful Investor is a weekly podcast hosted by Alex Shahidi, Co-CIO of one of the nation’s leading RIAs. In a conversational, “fireside chat” format, Alex interacts with some of the world’s premier investors and business icons to share market insights rarely found elsewhere. While many investors echo common sentiments, our “insights” include concepts that we believe are counterintuitive, widely misunderstood, or underappreciated. With over two decades of experience managing billions of dollars in client assets, Alex offers unique access to some of the industry’s top thinkers. He has authored two investment books and contributed to leading journals, and he consistently ranks among the elite financial advisors by Forbes and Barron’s. As an independent and innovative voice, Alex offers a fresh take on investing. We invite you to tune in and would love to hear your feedback. https://insightfulinvestor.org/

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