Private Equity Podcast: Karma School of Business BluWave

In this episode of the "Karma School of Business Podcast," host Sean Mooney engages with Carl Press, a seasoned partner at Thoma Bravo, to delve into the intricate world of private equity within the software industry. This discussion offers a unique opportunity to understand Thoma Bravo's strategic approach to identifying potential, fostering leadership, and driving value creation across their portfolio companies. Listeners will gain insights into the critical factors that guide investment decisions and the methodologies that have solidified Thoma Bravo's reputation as a leader in the private equity space.
Episode Highlights:
[00:00:32] Carl's Journey into Private Equity: Carl Press shares his transition from an engineering background to a pivotal role in private equity, highlighting his passion for technology and finance.
[00:03:59] Leadership in Focus: The conversation explores the paramount importance of strong leadership in private equity investments, providing Carl's perspective on the traits that define a great CEO.
[00:07:39] Investment Philosophy of Thoma Bravo: Carl outlines the firm's dedicated focus on enterprise software and the key criteria that guide their investment decisions.
[00:18:18] Strategies for Value Creation: An in-depth look at Thoma Bravo's comprehensive approach to value creation, emphasizing the role of operational support in driving portfolio company success.
[00:27:55] Advice for Navigating Economic Uncertainty: Carl shares practical advice for portfolio companies to effectively manage through challenging economic periods.
[00:37:24] Personal Growth and Influential Reads: Reflecting on personal growth, Carl shares impactful reading recommendations and the importance of trusting one's instincts.
For more information on Thoma Bravo, go to www.thomabravo.com.
For more information on Carl Press, go to www.linkedin.com/in/carlpress.
For more information on BluWave and this podcast, go to www.bluwave.net/podcasts.
This episode not only provides a behind-the-scenes glimpse into Thoma Bravo's strategic operations but also offers valuable lessons on leadership, decision-making, and customer-centric strategies in the software sector. Whether you're an investor, executive, or someone keen on understanding the dynamics of successful business growth in private equity, this conversation with Carl Press is packed with actionable insights and thoughtful reflections on navigating the complexities of the industry.

Explore the private equity landscape of early 2024 with Sean Mooney, founder and CEO of BluWave, in this insightful episode of the "Karma School of Business Podcast." Utilizing BluWave's extensive data, Sean offers a deep dive into the latest trends, strategic shifts, and economic indicators shaping the private equity sector. This episode provides a detailed analysis of how private equity firms are positioning themselves for growth amidst evolving economic conditions.
Episode Breakdown:
02:09 - The Buffalo Strategy: Sean explains the unique strategy of the American bison during storms as a metaphor for private equity firms' approach to economic challenges.
04:17 - Economic Indicators and Predictions: Examines key economic metrics such as GDP growth, inflation rates, and unemployment figures, shedding light on private equity's response.
07:18 - Sector-Specific Insights: Discusses the significant increase in activity within the manufacturing and healthcare sectors, signaling a strategic realignment towards previously less favored industries.
09:38 - Technology and Value Creation: Highlights the surge in technology investments, emphasizing ERP and CRM systems, as firms prepare for an AI-driven future.
11:55 - Human Capital Trends: Analyzes trends in hiring, with a focus on senior-level and growth-oriented executives, indicating a strategic pivot towards expansion.
13:39 - Looking Ahead: Reviews predictions for 2024, assessing their accuracy and outlining emerging trends and factors to watch in the private equity sector.
18:44 - Data Science in Private Equity: Sean discusses the growing importance of data scientists within private equity firms, driven by the need for advanced data analysis and predictive modeling.
21:19 - The Role of Marketing in PE: Explores the emerging trend of incorporating marketing expertise into private equity teams, highlighting its importance in brand building and deal sourcing.
To request the report, go to www.bluwave.net/insights-report
This episode is an essential listen for anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of the private equity industry in 2024. Through a detailed analysis of economic indicators, sector trends, and strategic investments, Sean Mooney offers valuable insights into how private equity is adapting and thriving in a complex economic environment.

In this episode of the "Karma School of Business Podcast," host Sean Mooney sits down with Josh Adams, Partner at OpenGate Capital, to explore the intricacies of the private equity industry. This conversation sheds light on the strategic and operational approaches that drive success in private equity investments, particularly focusing on corporate carve-outs and global market navigation.
Episode Highlights:
1:05 - Josh Adams' Journey: Josh shares his unconventional path into private equity, from his beginnings in South Wales to becoming a partner at OpenGate Capital.
07:59 - Personal Insights: Josh discusses his Welsh heritage and how it influences his professional outlook and approach to private equity.
10:43 - Industry Challenges: The conversation turns to the current challenges in the private equity market, including capital raising and deployment strategies.
18:00 - Strategic Focus: Josh elaborates on OpenGate Capital's focus on industrials and corporate carve-outs, detailing the importance of specialization and operational excellence.
24:47 - Global Approach: Insights into OpenGate Capital's global strategy, emphasizing the benefits of an internationally experienced team and cross-border investments.
29:40 - Adapting to Market Changes: Josh discusses how OpenGate Capital has refined its investment strategies to navigate a tough market environment effectively.
For more information about OpenGate Capital, go to www.opengatecapital.com
For more information on Josh, go to www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-m-adams-70602126
For more information on BluWave and this podcast, go to www.bluwave.net/podcasts
This episode provides a deep dive into the strategies, challenges, and successes that define the private equity landscape, offering valuable lessons for investors and industry professionals alike. Join us for a closer look at the operational and strategic excellence behind OpenGate Capital's success in the private equity sector.
Listeners will gain actionable insights into navigating the complexities of private equity, making informed investment decisions, and understanding the critical role of operational expertise in achieving long-term success.

In this enlightening episode of the Karma School of Business Podcast, host Sean Mooney welcomes John Caple, Partner at Hidden Harbor Capital Partners, for an in-depth discussion on the intricacies of private equity. With a career that spans from management consulting at Bain to pivotal roles at HIG Capital and now Hidden Harbor, John offers a comprehensive view of his journey into the heart of private equity. This episode sheds light on the critical aspects of identifying potential in companies, the discipline required in investment decisions, and the strategic approach to fostering growth and operational excellence within portfolio companies.
Episode Highlights:
1:14 - Path to Private Equity: John shares his transition from Bain's fast-paced consulting world to embracing the challenges and rewards of private equity, highlighting his tenure at HIG Capital and the move to Hidden Harbor.
9:56 - Beyond the Boardroom: Dive into John's personal side, including his love for offshore fishing and the balance he finds between work and family life.
21:06 - Blueprint for Value Creation: Explore Hidden Harbor's methodical approach to enhancing portfolio companies, focusing on team building, execution, and leveraging a comprehensive portfolio operations group.
27:23 - Unlocking Growth Opportunities: John discusses targeted strategies for sales enhancement and system upgrades, alongside fostering a culture of employee engagement to drive sustainable growth.
37:19 - John's advice to his younger self.
For more information on Hidden Harbor Capital, go to www.hh-cp.com.
For more information on John, go to www.linkedin.com/in/john-caple-969345.
For more information on BluWave and this podcast, go to www.bluwave.net/podcasts.
Join us as John Caple unravels the layers of strategy, discipline, and personal passion that define success in private equity. His insights offer valuable lessons for industry veterans and newcomers alike, emphasizing the importance of a balanced approach to professional challenges and life outside the office.
Please subscribe to the Karma School of Business Podcast for more insightful episodes like this, and don't hesitate to leave us a review if you find our content valuable. Stay tuned for our next episode, where we delve further into the elements that shape business success in the realm of private equity.

In this standout episode of the Karma School of Business Podcast, host Sean Mooney compiles an array of life hacks shared by prominent figures in the private equity world. As we navigate the complexities of both the private equity industry and our personal lives, finding ways to streamline our daily routines is invaluable. This episode brings together the best tips and tricks from our esteemed guests, offering listeners practical solutions to enhance efficiency, improve wellbeing, and make the most out of every day. Dive into these curated insights and discover how small changes can lead to significant improvements in your life and work within the private equity sector.
Episode Highlights:
01:23 - Erica Blob on Sleep Solutions for Travel: Erica introduces a game-changing pillow that promises better sleep during travel, a must-have for the frequent private equity traveler. (Listen to Erica's episode)
04:33 - Andrew Joy's Foundation for Success: Andrew advocates for a return to basics, emphasizing hard work and dedication as the true "life hack" for success in private equity. (Listen to Andrew's episode)
06:21 - Dave Feierstein's Wardrobe Efficiency: Dave reveals his strategy for simplifying daily attire decisions, a time-saving approach valued by private equity professionals. (Listen to Dave's episode)
11:08 - Gabe Mesanza on Effective Note-Taking: Gabe shares how transitioning to digital note-taking has revolutionized his organization and memory retention. (Listen to Gabe's episode)
13:46 - David Hellier's Coffee Prep Hack: David offers a simple yet brilliant tip for a hassle-free coffee experience, perfect for the private equity morning routine. (Listen to David's episode)
15:46 - Charlie Gifford on Wine Aeration Technique: Charlie introduces a unique method for aerating wine, enhancing the private equity dining experience. (Listen to Charlie's episode)
17:48 - Doug Horn on Tranquil Travel: Doug discusses how noise-canceling earphones have become his essential travel companion, offering peace amidst the bustling life of a private equity investor. (Listen to Doug's episode)
For more info on BluWave and this podcast, go to www.bluwave.net/podcasts.
Join us as Sean Mooney delves into these transformative life hacks shared by private equity leaders, demonstrating that efficiency, wellbeing, and enjoyment can coexist seamlessly in the fast-paced world of private equity.
Please subscribe to the Karma School of Business Podcast for more episodes like this, and leave us a review if you find our content valuable. Stay tuned for our next episode, where we continue to explore key elements of business success in the realm of private equity.

In this insightful episode of the Karma School of Business Podcast, special guest host Rena Frackt, Managing Director and Head of Client Coverage at BluWave, engages in a profound conversation with Doron Grosman, a seasoned figure in the private equity landscape. Grosman, known for his roles as a serial CEO, private equity operating partner, and investor, shares his journey through the evolving world of private equity, venture capital, and angel investing. With a career that spans leading businesses in both public and private domains and holding significant positions in companies with EBITDA ranging from 50 to 500 million, Grosman brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table.
Episode Highlights:
01:01 - Doron Grosman's Diverse Career Journey
02:25 - Influencing and Guiding Management Teams
04:45 - Challenges of Leading as a Private Equity CEO
06:39 - The Role of Board Engagement in Private Equity
08:37 - Leveraging Board Positions for Strategy and Governance
11:45 - Overcoming Challenges in Private Equity
15:08 - Essential Skills and Experiences for Private Equity Success
20:15 - Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring Private Equity Professionals
For more information on Doron, go to www.linkedin.com/in/dorongrosman
For more information on BluWave and this podcast, go to www.bluwave.net/podcasts
Join us for this episode as Doron Grosman shares invaluable lessons from his extensive experience in private equity, offering listeners a roadmap to mastering leadership, value creation, and strategic governance in the high-stakes world of investment.
Please subscribe to the Karma School of Business Podcast for more episodes like this, and don't hesitate to leave us a review if you find our content valuable. Stay tuned for our next episode, where we continue to explore key elements of business success in the realm of private equity.