Private Equity Fast Pitch
Consistent with all programs delivered by Northstar, “Private Equity Fast Pitch” podcasts are meaningful, insightful and provide actionable information from leaders in the Private Equity community that will help you connect with the speaker in an efficient way. Each Tuesday, Jeff Henningsen from Lockton will spend time talking with his friends in the private equity community while they share insight into their world. Similar to an introductory meeting, Private Equity and Investment Banking guests will talk about their firms, recent activities, target industries, desired acquisition profile or companies they are prepping for sale, advice to aspiring professionals and their “closing pitch”. If you would like to be considered for a Private Equity Fast Pitch interview please email jhenningsen@lockton.com
info_outline
Quotes and Mottos Montage from Private Equity and Investment Banking Professionals
01/08/2026
Quotes and Mottos Montage from Private Equity and Investment Banking Professionals
Throughout 2025, I sat down with CEOs, founders, investors, and leaders across the private equity ecosystem. In every conversation, I asked a question that I have asked since the very first episode of Private Equity Fast Pitch: What’s the quote, motto, or what drives you? The answers were telling as there were no slogans or catchy buzzwords. What stood out was a shared seriousness about how success is built over time. Intention. Discipline. Mentorship. Compassion. Consistency. A deep respect for people and for the responsibility that comes with leadership. These are not quotes for social media. They are reference points for leadership. I’m incredibly grateful for these guests time and our impactful conversations. And grateful to be able to bring these voices to the private equity community. The Ninth Annual Quotes and Mottos montage features perspectives from our 2025 guests: Erik Brooks – Founder & Managing Partner, Ethos Capital Action over analysis. Grit, discipline, and winning the next 30 minutes. Jeff Aiello – Co-Founder & Managing Partner, Agellus Capital Execution over perfection. Momentum guided by principles. Russ Roenick – Founder & Managing Partner, Transom Capital Group Decisiveness and self-awareness. Knowing your limits and acting accordingly. Michelle Noon – Founder & Managing Partner, Clearhaven Partners Growth through discomfort. Progress comes from moving through challenge. Andrew Weinberg – Founder, CEO & Co-Chair, Brightstar Capital Partners Carpe Diem. Presence, gratitude, and intention, rooted in family. Paul Raphael – Founder & Partner, Aurea Quality and mentorship. Trusting people to figure it out. Parker Weil – Global Co-Head of Investment Banking, TD Securities Long-term thinking. Reputation, relationships, and consistency. Lucy Heintz – Partner, Actis Empathy and perspective. Understanding how others see the world. Chris Rozzell – Managing Partner, Cresta Fund Management Clarity over comfort. Discipline over drama. Truth over ego. Tim Meyer – Co-Founder & Managing Partner, Angeles Equity Partners Focus and simplification. Eliminate noise to intensify impact. Neda Vakilian – Partner, Actis Sharp thinking and grounded execution. Trust and responsibility as leadership. Robert Brown – CEO, Lincoln International Hustle and presence. Showing up and doing the blocking and tackling. Kristin Johnson – Managing Director, Altamont Capital Partners Service and humility. Leading by asking, “What can I do to help?” Sean MacIver – Managing Director, KeyBanc Capital Markets Adaptability. Knowing when the familiar tool no longer fits. John Diggins – Partner, Platinum Equity Risk and growth. Understanding that not taking risk can be the biggest risk. Matthew Sparks – Managing Director, Northleaf Capital Proactivity. Skating to where the puck is going, not where it’s been. Eliot Kerlin – Partner & Managing Partner, Broadwing Capital Presence and forward thinking. Focused on what comes next. Scott Sperling – Co-CEO, THL The ripple effect. Small actions compounding into meaningful impact. Michael Psaros – Co-Founder & Co-Managing Partner, KPS Capital Partners Time, gratitude, and legacy. Using success in service of something larger.
/episode/index/show/enorthstar/id/39654140
info_outline
Eliot Kerlin - Broadwing Capital
12/18/2025
Eliot Kerlin - Broadwing Capital
Eliot serves as Managing Partner of Broadwing Capital, which he co-founded after 20 years of operational private equity experience. He is responsible for overall direction of the firm and ensuring Broadwing achieves its investment objectives in a manner consistent with the firm’s mission and core values. He originates and leads investment opportunities, partners with management post-acquisition to achieve transformative results, and serves as primary contact at the firm for investors. Eliot has been a private equity investor since 2000, and has significant expertise in mergers and acquisitions, corporate strategy, performance improvement, and realizations through sales, public offerings and dividend recapitalizations. Prior to founding Broadwing in 2022, Eliot was a Managing Partner of Insight Equity, a private equity firm with $1.4 billion under management. During his 17 years at Insight, Eliot led numerous investments and exits, working with management teams to create significant value across pre-fund investments, three equity funds and one mezzanine vehicle. He was responsible for all stages of the investment process, collaborating closely with management to identify and implement strategic and tactical improvement opportunities. Eliot served as Director and Chairman of multiple portfolio company boards, acted as Chief Restructuring Officer at a portfolio company during the great recession, and led acquisitions and greenfield expansion efforts throughout the United States and in seven countries. Before joining Insight, Eliot acted as turnaround manager for Bay State Paper Company. Earlier in his career, Eliot worked for three years at Jupiter Partners, a New York-based private equity fund focused on domestic manufacturing, distribution and services companies. Previously, Eliot worked as an investment banker in Merrill Lynch’s Global Communications Group advising public and private companies on corporate mergers, public offerings and bond offerings. Eliot enjoys investing in the lives of his three sons and daughter and his local community. He co-founded and serves as Chairman of Casa Del Lago, an outreach to the Bachman Lake community in Dallas. In addition, Eliot previously served as a long-time board member of the Prison Entrepreneurship Program and other non-profit boards, Director and Chairman of a school board, English as a Second Language teacher, Assistant Scoutmaster, and coach of multiple soccer teams. Eliot co-founded a national impact angel network that invests in young companies and provides advice to their founders. Active in professional circles as well, Eliot was the Chairman of the DFW Private Equity Forum and Director – Private Equity with the DFW Association for Corporate Growth. Originally from Ft. Worth, Eliot roots for the Aggies, enjoys the outdoors, took up tennis to protect his knees from soccer injuries, and can play tunes on several stringed instruments. He lives in Dallas with his wife and their four children. Eliot holds an M.B.A. with distinction from Harvard Business School, and a B.B.A. in Finance with honors from Texas A&M University.
/episode/index/show/enorthstar/id/39452190
info_outline
Michael Psaros - KPS Capital Partners
12/04/2025
Michael Psaros - KPS Capital Partners
Michael Psaros is a Co-Founder and Co-Managing Partner of KPS Capital Partners, LP (“KPS”) and a member of its Investment and Management Committees. KPS is a leading global private equity firm with approximately $19.4B (as of 6/30/25) of assets under management focused on making controlling equity investments in global manufacturing and industrial companies across an array of industries. KPS generates investment returns by structurally improving the strategic position, competitiveness and profitability of its portfolio companies. The KPS Funds’ portfolio companies generate aggregate annual revenues of approximately $21.6B and operate 211 manufacturing facilities in 21 countries (as of 6/30/25 pro forma for recent acquisitions and exits). Mr. Psaros currently serves on the Board of Directors of 14 KPS portfolio companies and as Chairman of six. He previously served on the Board of 35 former KPS portfolio companies. Prior to joining its predecessor in 1991 and co-founding KPS in 1997, he was an investment banker with Bear Stearns & Co., Inc. He received a B.S.B.A. in Finance from Georgetown University and attended Sophia University in Tokyo, Japan. The Psaros Center for Financial Markets and Policy at Georgetown University, named for and endowed by the Psaros family in 2022, provides non-partisan, unbiased expertise to guide policy and practice. The Center leverages the strength of Georgetown’s McDonough School of Business, distinguished faculty and leadership in finance and public policy to convene leaders across the private sector, global capital markets, legislators and regulators to solve problems for the common good. Mr. Psaros served on Georgetown University’s Board of Directors and currently serves as Vice Chairman of the Executive Board of Advisors at McDonough School of Business. Mr. Psaros received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters, Honorus Causa, from Georgetown University in May 2025. Mr. Psaros created “The Michael and Robin Psaros Endowed Chair in Business Administration” at Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business in 2013 and “The Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew Endowed Orthodox Chaplaincy, Endowed by the Michael Psaros Family” in 2021. Mr. Psaros is the Vice Chairman of the St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church and National Shrine at Ground Zero in New York City. He currently serves on the Executive Committee of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America and is an Archon of the Ecumenical Patriarchate and serves on its National Council. He serves on the Board of Trustees of The Leadership 100 Endowment and the Executive Board of The Hellenic Initiative. Mr. Psaros was honored by the Hellenic Republic (Greece), the International Foundation for Greece and the Hellenic Post for his exceptional business achievements and philanthropy. The Hellenic Post placed Mr. Psaros on a limited-edition postage stamp now in circulation throughout Greece. Michael Psaros, Commencement Speech, Georgetown University:
/episode/index/show/enorthstar/id/39256675
info_outline
Parker Weil - TD Securities
11/20/2025
Parker Weil - TD Securities
Parker Weil is Executive Managing Director, Co-Head of Global Corporate and Investment Banking Coverage at TD Securities (TDS), and sits on the CIB Executive Management Committee. He is responsible for overseeing the business’ global strategy, managing key relationships, and leading high-profile transactions to drive business growth and market expansion. Prior to this, Parker was the Co-Head of the Financial Sponsors Group which manages the firm’s relationships with Private Equity firms, Family Offices, and Independent Sponsors. He has over 30 years of experience providing M&A advice and capital raising services to companies in the manufacturing, energy & power, and business services industries. Prior to TD Cowen, Parker served as Managing Director and head of the Industrials and Natural Resources investment banking group for Stifel Financial Corp. He previously held roles at Bank of America Merrill Lynch and Salomon Brothers. Parker currently serves on the Board of Directors of 180 Degree Capital Corp. He has also served on Clean Energy Fuels and on the Board of Trustees of the Ridgewood Lacrosse Association. Parker holds a BA in Economics from the University of Pennsylvania and an MBA from the Kellogg Graduate School of Management at Northwestern University.
/episode/index/show/enorthstar/id/39102475
info_outline
Tim Meyer - Angeles Equity Partners
11/06/2025
Tim Meyer - Angeles Equity Partners
Tim is a co-founder and Managing Partner at Angeles Equity Partners. Tim is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the firm's investment activities. Prior to co-founding Angeles Equity Partners in 2014, Tim co-led the Industrials vertical at The Gores Group with Jordan Katz. Tim was responsible for leading due diligence efforts, driving operational transformation and providing portfolio company oversight. During his tenure at Gores, Tim served as the Chairman and/or Chief Executive Officer of numerous portfolio companies, and was a member of both the Management and Investment Committees. Prior to Gores, Tim spent two years at Gateway, where he was responsible for the revenue and margin performance of Services, Software, and Enterprise Products in the Professional Business Unit. Prior to Gateway, Tim spent more than five years at Bain & Company, where he led numerous strategy, M&A and operational improvement engagements for corporate and private equity clients. Before that, Tim served in various sales leadership and transformation positions at AT&T and began his career with IBM. Tim received a B.A. in Finance from Texas A&M University and an M.B.A. with a concentration in Entrepreneurial Finance from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.
/episode/index/show/enorthstar/id/38934735
info_outline
Michelle Noon - Clearhaven Partners
10/23/2025
Michelle Noon - Clearhaven Partners
Michelle is the Founder and Managing Partner of , which she founded in 2019 to build a private equity firm grounded in focus and shared values. She sets the firm’s strategy and direction and chairs Clearhaven’s Investment Committee. Under her leadership, Clearhaven manages more than $1 billion in AUM across multiple funds, investing in growth-oriented software and technology businesses. Michelle is responsible for firm leadership, investment origination, execution, and portfolio management. Prior to founding Clearhaven, Michelle was a member of the investment teams at Thoma Bravo and Riverside Partners; at Riverside she served as a General Partner and member of the Investment Committee. She began her career in investment banking at Morgan Stanley. Michelle holds an MBA, with distinction, from Harvard Business School and a BBA, magna cum laude, from the University of Notre Dame. She also studied at l’Université Catholique de l’Ouest in Angers, France, and taught at Erakommertzkolledz in Tallinn, Estonia. Michelle has been recognized by The Wall Street Journalas one of private equity’s most influential women and by Buyouts as one of ten “Rock Stars of Private Equity’s Future.” She serves on the Advisory Board of . Michelle lives in the Greater Boston area with her husband, two children, and their golden retriever. Michelle is a Christian, a music lover, and a proud alumna of the St. Charles, Illinois state champion dance team (go Saints!). She’s also a novice fly fisher, having recently discovered an unexpected passion for the sport.
/episode/index/show/enorthstar/id/38750580
info_outline
Russ Roenick - Transom Capital Group
10/09/2025
Russ Roenick - Transom Capital Group
As a Co-Founder and Managing Partner, Russ brings an entrepreneurial spirit and a wealth of financial and operational expertise to Transom. He thrives on solving complex problems, and has earned a reputation as a responsive, proactive leader, investor, and business-builder. Russ manages Transom day-to-day, plays an active role in new investment evaluation & execution and with portfolio companies, and is a member of the investment committee. Prior to forming Transom, Russ was a Junior Partner at McKinsey & Company, where he focused on operational transformations across several industries and worked in the firm’s Private Equity Practice. Prior to McKinsey, Russ was a product developer at Microsoft and an investment banker at Credit Suisse First Boston, where he executed corporate finance transactions for technology companies. Russ graduated with honors from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business and holds an M.B.A. from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. Russ is an active member of the Young Presidents’ Organization, Santa Monica Bay Chapter.
/episode/index/show/enorthstar/id/38527280
info_outline
Sean Maclver - KeyBanc Capital Markets
09/25/2025
Sean Maclver - KeyBanc Capital Markets
Episode 183 of the Private Equity Fast Pitch features Sean MacIver, Managing Director with KeyBanc Capital Markets. He has over 15 years of experience advising both private equity and corporate clientele across the debt capital markets. Sean currently spends most of his time working collaboratively with his industry partners within the Industrial & Business Services, Building Products, and Aerospace & Defense sub-verticals, but also has industry agnostic coverage of KeyCorp’s Colorado and Southern California Commercial Banking markets. Sean has led and executed over 250 unique financings over his career, raising well north of $100BN in capital for both middle market and large corporate clients. For Sean it isn’t just about executing transactions—it’s about forging longstanding trusted partnerships that will endure the test of time (and various market conditions for that matter). Sean is a graduate of the Richard T. Farmer School of Business at Miami University of Ohio and earned his MBA at Kenan-Flagler Business School at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Outside of the office (or airport) you will find Sean spending time his with family (Sarah, Charlie, Teddy + Stevie), working on his sub-par golf game, or headlining at CORUS45, a Cleveland-based high-intensity pilates studio. The opinions expressed by the KeyBanc Capital Markets speaker are not necessarily those of KeyBanc Capital Markets, or any of its affiliates. Any opinions expressed are provided for informational purposes only, does not constitute research, legal, regulatory, tax, accounting, or investment advice, and should not be regarded as a recommendation or a solicitation.
/episode/index/show/enorthstar/id/38358655
info_outline
Kristin Johnson - Altamont Capital Partners
09/11/2025
Kristin Johnson - Altamont Capital Partners
Kristin Johnson Managing Director, Business Development Kristin Johnson is a Managing Director of ACP, where she leads the firm’s Business Development efforts. Prior to ACP, Kristin was a Principal in the fundraising group at TPG Capital, where she helped raise capital for the firm and manage investor relations. Previously, Kristin was a Managing Director in Morgan Stanley’s corporate finance department, focused on working with private equity clients, for 10 years. Kristin began her career as a Consultant at Booz Allen & Hamilton, focused on marketing-intensive clients. Kristin received an M.B.A. from Stanford Graduate School of Business and a B.A. in Math and Economics from Pomona College.
/episode/index/show/enorthstar/id/38179970
info_outline
Matthew Sparks - Northleaf Capital
08/28/2025
Matthew Sparks - Northleaf Capital
Matthew Sparks, Managing Director, is a senior leader on the private equity team at Northleaf Capital Partners. Matthew leads the firm’s North American secondaries strategy and also plays a key role in managing its Canadian fund investment portfolio. With more than 15 years at Northleaf, he brings deep expertise in evaluating complex deals, building trusted GP relationships, and navigating the fast-evolving secondaries market. He’s been recognized as a Next Gen Leader by Secondaries Investor and awarded the Emerging Leader Award by The Private Capital Markets Association of Canada as “One to Watch” — a reflection of his thoughtful approach to investing and long-term perspective in a dynamic market. Before joining Northleaf, Matthew started his career at Monitor Group, where he worked across industries on strategy, M&A, and integration. He holds an H.B.A. with distinction from the Ivey Business School and is a member of Northleaf’s Private Equity Investment Committee.
/episode/index/show/enorthstar/id/38004750
info_outline
Chris Rozzell - Cresta Fund Management
08/14/2025
Chris Rozzell - Cresta Fund Management
Disclaimer: The discussion in this podcast is for informational purposes and should not be relied on as investment advice or an offer to sell or a solicitation for an offer to buy any securities. Any opinions expressed are those of the speaker and are subject to change. Any discussion of past performance is provided for informational purposes only, is not track record information and should not be relied upon as a guarantee of future performance. Any information regarding the performance of prior companies was discussed in order to illustrate the experience of the partners of the firm and does not reflect the private equity fund management experience of the partners. It should not be assumed that investments made by Cresta will be comparable in quality or performance to the prior companies. About Chris Rozzell: Chris Rozzell brings 23 years of investing and operating experience across the infrastructure sector. He co-founded Cresta in 2016 and leads the firm’s transaction sourcing, execution, portfolio management, and overall operations. Mr. Rozzell currently serves on the boards of LF Bioenergy, Lapis Carbon Solutions, and Braya Renewable Fuels. Before Cresta, he was Chief Executive Officer of Wildcat Midstream Holdings, a middle market energy midstream investment platform. Previously, he served as Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer of Regency Energy Partners, where he directed commercial project development, acquisitions, gas supply, marketing, scheduling, and gas control. Earlier in his career, Mr. Rozzell held leadership roles in strategic planning, development, and enterprise risk at TXU Corp., and began his career in the Investment Banking Division of Bear, Stearns & Co. Inc. He holds a B.B.A. in Finance from Southern Methodist University.
/episode/index/show/enorthstar/id/37815090
info_outline
Scott Sperling - THL Partners
07/31/2025
Scott Sperling - THL Partners
Scott is Co-Chief Executive Officer and a co-chair of the firm’s Management committee. Scott’s current and prior directorships include Thermo Fisher Scientific Corp., Agiliti, the Madison Square Garden Company, Experian, Warner Music Group, Houghton Mifflin Co., Fisher Scientific, Univision Communications, Inc., iHeartMedia, Inc., Front Line Management, The Learning Company, PriCellular Corp., ProcureNet, ProSiebenSat.1, Wyndham Hotels, Federal Street Acquisition Corp. and several other private companies. Prior to joining Thomas H. Lee Partners, Scott was, for more than a decade, managing partner of the affiliate of Harvard Management Company that managed all alternative asset classes for Harvard University’s endowment fund. Before that he was a Senior Consultant with the Boston Consulting Group. Scott is involved with a number of charitable and non-profit organizations. He is Chairman of MassGeneralBrigham, the Parent of the Harvard teaching hospitals, Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham & Women’s Hospital as well as a number of leading specialty and community hospitals and physicians practice groups. He is Chairman Emeritus of the CitiCenter for Performing Arts and Wang Theater. He is also a member of each of the Harvard Business School Board of Dean’s Advisors, the Harvard University Committee on University Resources and the Harvard Business School’s Rock Center for Entrepreneurship.
/episode/index/show/enorthstar/id/37627525
info_outline
Paul Raphael - Auréa
07/17/2025
Paul Raphael - Auréa
Paul Raphael Paul is an established investment professional with extensive M&A and financing experience. He was Executive Vice Chairman at UBS from 2018 to 2021. He joined UBS in 2010 initially as Head of Global Emerging Markets and later served as UBS’ Head of Wealth Management for Europe, Middle East, Africa and Latin America where he managed $450 billion of client assets and over 3,000 employees across four continents. Before joining UBS in 2010, he spent six years at Credit Suisse, including three years in Hong Kong as Head of Investment Banking for the Asia Pacific region. Prior to this, Paul spent 10 years with Merrill Lynch in London and Paris and eight years at Salomon Brothers in New York in various M&A and capital markets roles. Paul is a member of the advisory board of LIFE where he was founding chairman and a member of the Special Advisory Council of International Crisis Group. He has a degree in economics from the University of Maryland and an MSC in management from MIT Sloan School of Management.
/episode/index/show/enorthstar/id/37442850
info_outline
Neda Vakilian - Actis
06/19/2025
Neda Vakilian - Actis
Neda Vakilian, Partner, Investor Solutions Group at Actis Neda is a partner of the firm having joined Actis in January 2022 where she was responsible for the coordination and management of strategic investor initiatives, fundraising project management, and product development. In March 2023, Neda was promoted to Global Head of Actis’ Investor Solutions Group. Neda has 20 years of industry experience, working across private capital markets, business development, and fundraising. Before joining Actis, she was Co-Head of Capital Solutions and Investor Relations for Amber Infrastructure. In this role, she was responsible for sales, client servicing, and product development, and was an investment committee member and board director on strategies. Prior to this, Neda worked at Macquarie Capital and the Green Investment Bank (now the Green Investment Group) where she was a leading member of the team responsible for raising what was, at the time, the largest renewables fund in Europe. She began her career as a solicitor, working at Clifford Chance and SJ Berwin. Disclaimer Risk management seeks to mitigate risk but does not eliminate risk and does not protect against losses. The statements referenced herein regarding the impact of the United States political office on decarbonisation efforts or the market are as of June 2025 and represent the views of Actis which is not research and should not be treated as research. Historic market trends are not reliable indicators of actual future market behaviour or future performance of any particular investment which may differ materially and should not be relied upon as such. Moreover, there is no assurance historical trends will continue.
/episode/index/show/enorthstar/id/37079885
info_outline
Robert Brown - Lincoln International
06/05/2025
Robert Brown - Lincoln International
As Lincoln’s Chief Executive Officer and a key driver of the firm’s growth from its beginnings, Rob has been instrumental in building its global footprint and a highly desirable culture that prioritizes attracting, retaining and engaging top talent at all levels. As a connected leader within the firm, Rob works closely with Lincoln’s investment banking professionals to help them achieve success. He continues to focus on building long-term relationships with clients and prospects, achieving optimal results through his thoughtful, interpersonal and collaborative approach. Rob has nearly 30 years of experience advising leading private equity groups, privately owned businesses and large public companies on divestitures, acquisitions and other strategic initiatives. Rob helped start Lincoln’s industrials and consumer practices and led the firm’s business services practice for more than a decade. Accordingly, Rob has a deep understanding of how to best position companies for sale, drive competitive processes and negotiate to successful closings. As a recognized advisor and thought leader in the investment banking industry, Rob is a frequent guest on WBBM’s Noon Business Hour in Chicago and a speaker and author on mergers and acquisitions-related topics. Rob sits on the board of UNICEF USA and the Dean’s Business Council for the Gies School of Business at the University of Illinois. He is also President of the Board of Regents at Saint Ignatius College Prep in Chicago. Prior to Lincoln, Rob worked at Price Waterhouse. His diverse experiences include management positions in Price Waterhouse’s investment banking subsidiary and the Transaction Services group. Rob earned a Master of Business Administration from Columbia University Graduate School of Business and a Bachelor of Science from the University of Illinois. Rob is a certified public accountant (inactive).
/episode/index/show/enorthstar/id/36870910
info_outline
Advice to Young Professionals and College Students
05/22/2025
Advice to Young Professionals and College Students
Advice to College Students Montage — Episode Overview For this special segment, we compiled standout moments from our guests’ responses to one of our favorite questions: “What advice would you give to college students or young professionals just starting out?” This recurring question has become a listener favorite on the podcast, and in this episode, we’re bringing those insights together into a powerful montage. From timeless career wisdom to honest reflections on failure and resilience, each soundbite delivers real-world guidance for the next generation of leaders. Featured Guests: This montage includes advice from top executives, investors, and entrepreneurs featured in past episodes, including: Sunaina Sinha, Raymond James Brad Armstrong, Lovell Minnick Partners Greg Belinfanti, One Equity Partners Adam Feinstein, Vesey Street Capital Partners Devon Kirk, Portage Steve Young, HGGC Jack Purcell, Ridgemont Equity Partners Steve Gord, Hidden River Strategic Capital Paul Swaney, Swaney Capital Group Mark Strauch, Alpine Investors Jeff Jenkins, Bernhard Capital Partners Patrick Maciariello, Compass Diversified Bogdan Gogulan, NewSpace Capital Erik Brooks, Ethos Capital Jeff Aiello, Agellus Capital Marshall Adkins, Raymond James Andrew Weinberg, Brightstar Capital Partners Lucy Heintz, Actis John Diggins, Platinum Equity Purpose: This episode aims to inspire college students, recent graduates, and young professionals with tactical advice and encouragement straight from the industry’s top minds. It’s also a great resource to share with interns, mentees, or students exploring careers in finance, investing, or business leadership. Let us know if you'd like a custom graphic, suggested caption, or LinkedIn blurb to go with it.
/episode/index/show/enorthstar/id/36677440
info_outline
John Diggins - Platinum Equity
05/08/2025
John Diggins - Platinum Equity
John Diggins is responsible for senior level business development activities focused on identifying new acquisition opportunities and has been involved in sourcing many multi-billion dollar deals during his time at Platinum. Mr. Diggins joined Platinum Equity in 1996. Prior to joining Platinum, he was the co-founder of Ventec Systems with Platinum Equity Chairman and CEO Tom Gores. Mr. Gores brought Mr. Diggins to Platinum Equity to drive deal sourcing and help shape the firm in its early days of growth. In this capacity Mr. Diggins served as CEO at Platinum Equity portfolio companies Pilot Software and Foresight Software. Mr. Diggins holds a B.S. in Business Administration from the University of New Mexico
/episode/index/show/enorthstar/id/36488260
info_outline
Wharton Graduates - Advice to Young Professionals
04/24/2025
Wharton Graduates - Advice to Young Professionals
As graduation season kicks off, many students and young professionals are stepping into an exciting new chapter — one filled with opportunity, growth, and a few unknowns. To mark this milestone, we’ve curated a special montage episode featuring timeless advice from nine distinguished Wharton alumni. These leaders have successfully navigated the path from campus to boardroom, and they’re sharing candid insights on mindset, momentum, and making your mark in Private Equity and Investment Banking. In this episode, you’ll hear from: Dave Tayeh – Investcorp Marc Leder – Sun Capital Partners Neha Markle – Morgan Stanley Bob Frost – Lazard Jeff Collins – Cloverlay Jeff Aiello – Agellus Michael Butler – Cascadia Capital Jack Purcell – Ridgemont Equity Partners Barry Freeman – Lincoln International Whether you’re just graduating or mentoring the next generation of finance leaders, this episode delivers practical, powerful advice that’s well worth the listen.
/episode/index/show/enorthstar/id/36300275
info_outline
Branch Out Podcast with Jeff Henningsen
04/10/2025
Branch Out Podcast with Jeff Henningsen
We’re excited to share a special episode of the Branch Out Podcast featuring Jeff Henningsen! Jeff has always been curious, creative, and committed to his goals—traits that have fueled his success across a variety of industries. Jeff’s entrepreneurial journey began early, mowing lawns as a student to earn extra cash. That side hustle eventually grew into a full-fledged business, which he sold at just 22 years old. From there, he moved into the world of private equity and ultimately became the President of Lockton Companies in Texas, a role he’s held for the past 26 years. In addition to his leadership role, Jeff is also the host of the Private Equity Fast Pitch podcast. In this conversation, originally recorded on Branch Out, Jeff shares the mindset shifts and habits that have helped him thrive—both professionally and personally. Key Points From This Episode: The key factor that separates “idea men” from successful entrepreneurs. Why Jeff is so passionate about the value of coaching. What inspired Jeff to launch his podcast—and the surprising outcomes it’s led to. The importance of committing to your goals. Why Jeff thinks of himself as a (figurative) orchestra conductor. How being an introvert can actually be a strength. Why doing beats dreaming every time. Whether you're launching a new venture or looking to lead with more purpose, Jeff’s story is full of insights and inspiration.
/episode/index/show/enorthstar/id/36090985
info_outline
Lucy Heintz - Actis
03/27/2025
Lucy Heintz - Actis
The description of Actis' process in evaluating investments reflects the opinions of Actis and of the typical investment process (or intended investment process) as of March 2025, but this investment process can vary for particular investments and is subject to change at Actis' discretion and without prior notice. References to 'mitigating risk' does not guarantee against risk and does not protect against losses. General discussions contained in this document regarding the Indian or South East Asian market or market conditions represent the view of either the source cited or Actis. Such information is not research and should not be treated as research. Moreover, there is no assurance historical trends will continue. The information referenced herein is as of March 2025, unless otherwise indicated, is subject to change.
/episode/index/show/enorthstar/id/35887120
info_outline
Quotes & Motto's from Female Private Equity Professionals
03/13/2025
Quotes & Motto's from Female Private Equity Professionals
Powerhouse Women in Private Equity & Investment Banking Our Female Quotes & Montage spotlights an extraordinary lineup of women who are shaping the future of private equity and investment banking. From driving strategic investments to leading top firms, these industry trailblazers embody leadership, innovation, and impact. Featuring insights from Sunaina Sinha of Raymond James, Neha Markle of Morgan Stanley, Deborah Smith of The CenterCap Group, Blythe Jack of TSG Consumer, Franny Jones of The Sterling Group, Meahgan O’Grady of Palladium Equity Partners, Shannon Zoller of Tephra Advisors, Julia Karol of Watermill Group, Gretchen Perkins of Avance Investment Management, Gina Luna of GP Capital Partners, Caroline Stevens of MPK Equity Partners, Devon Kirk of Portage Capital Solutions, Tammie Miller of TKO Miller, Chrisanne Corbett of KPMG, Lauren Mulholland of Middle Ground, and Suzanne Yoon of Kinzie Capital Partners. Their voices inspire the next generation and reinforce the power of women in finance.
/episode/index/show/enorthstar/id/35674465
info_outline
Andrew Weinberg - Brightstar Capital Partners
02/27/2025
Andrew Weinberg - Brightstar Capital Partners
Andrew Weinberg is Founder and CEO of Brightstar Capital Partners. Andrew serves as Chair of Brightstar’s Investment Committee. Prior to founding Brightstar, Andrew was a Partner at Lindsay Goldberg, a New York-based private equity firm. Andrew served on the Boards of 13 portfolio companies during his tenure at Lindsay Goldberg. In addition, from 2008-2011 Andrew served as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Strategy Officer of Likewize. Prior to joining Lindsay Goldberg, Andrew worked at Goldman Sachs in their Principal Investment Area (PIA). Andrew started his career at Morgan Stanley in mergers and acquisitions and leveraged finance. Andrew received his MBA from Stanford GSB and an AB from Dartmouth College with a double major in History and Economics. Andrew serves as a trustee of the PGA of America REACH Foundation. Andrew is a member of the Young Presidents Organization (YPO). He is a former member of the World Economic Forum who served on the Global Future Council on Investing and the Stewardship Board of the Forum’s Platform on Shaping the Future of Investing. Andrew has appeared on multiple panels at Milken Institute and FII conferences.
/episode/index/show/enorthstar/id/35465215
info_outline
Marshall Adkins - Raymond James
02/13/2025
Marshall Adkins - Raymond James
Marshall Adkins joined Raymond James in 1995 and serves as the head of the firm’s Energy Investment Banking practice. Prior to this role, Mr. Adkins served as the director of Energy Research and focused on oilfield services and products. Prior to Raymond James, he spent 10 years in the oilfield services industry as a project manager, corporate financial analyst, sales manager, and engineer. He holds a B.S. degree in petroleum engineering and an MBA from the University of Texas at Austin.
/episode/index/show/enorthstar/id/35270200
info_outline
Jeff Aiello - Agellus Capital
01/30/2025
Jeff Aiello - Agellus Capital
Jeff co-founded Agellus Capital in 2024 after spending 13 years in the private equity industry. Prior to Agellus, Jeff was a Managing Director at Thompson Street Capital Partners. Prior to Thompson Street, Jeff was a Senior Associate at Audax Private Equity. Prior to Audax, Jeff served as a Captain in the U.S. Air Force. Jeff holds a BS in Aeronautical Engineering from the U.S. Air Force Academy, an MS in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Dayton, and an MBA from Wharton. He lives in St. Louis with his wife, son, and daughter.
/episode/index/show/enorthstar/id/35083655
info_outline
Erik Brooks - Ethos Capital
01/16/2025
Erik Brooks - Ethos Capital
Erik has spent his entire career in the investment industry and prior to founding Ethos was a Managing Partner leading Abry Partners. During his 20-year tenure at Abry he originated, supervised, and sold companies in information services, digital infrastructure, enterprise systems, healthcare IT, financial services and media, representing an aggregate enterprise value of approximately $11 billion. Additionally, as a Managing Partner at Abry Partners, he served on investment committees, and oversaw recruiting of all investment professionals, research, and information technology. He also managed relationships with limited partners, headed its Heritage Fund and was a key partner in raising $17 billion across 15 funds. Prior to joining Abry Partners, Erik was an investment professional at New Century Holdings, the Baupost Group, and Apax Partners. In addition to Erik’s professional activities he serves on the Board of Advisors of the at Harvard University, and the Advisory Board of at Massachusetts General Hospital. As an active alumni advisor for Harvard Business School and Brown University, he spends time with students helping them think about life after academia and how their contributions can make a difference in the world. Previously he served on the boards of the Citi Performing Arts Center in Boston and the at Harvard University, and the President’s Advisory Council on Internships at Brown University.
/episode/index/show/enorthstar/id/34882370
info_outline
Quotes and Mottos Montage from Private Equity and Investment Banking Professionals
01/02/2025
Quotes and Mottos Montage from Private Equity and Investment Banking Professionals
We are excited to present a montage of quotes and mottos from prior guests that have inspired them throughout the years in both their careers and personal lives. As we begin a new year, we hope this special episode sets the stage and provides you with a new mindset for conquering the challenges & opportunities that lie ahead.
/episode/index/show/enorthstar/id/34699690
info_outline
Bogdan Gogulan - NewSpace Capital
12/19/2024
Bogdan Gogulan - NewSpace Capital
Bogdan Gogulan has 20 years of experience in finance, product and business development. Before initiating NewSpace Capital, he had accumulated a unique combination of cross-border experience in communication, security and defense industries. He served as VP of international operations and business development for AT Communication (Switzerland), Defendec (Baltics) and Katmerciler (Turkey), managing breakthrough projects for security and defense agencies in the Middle East and Central Asia. For years, he managed alignment and cooperation with UN agencies (BOMCA/UNDP, BOMNAF, UNODC, UNHCR, IOM) and security organizations (NATO, OSCE, ISAF). Prior to that, Bogdan worked for American Express (USA, UK) and Deutsche Bank (UK). As global sales development Program Manager and Head of Industry Analytics at American Express he was responsible for global partnerships development with top tier clients. Since 2010, Bogdan has been actively involved with UN Alliance of Civilization’s (UNAOC) participating as an OYW Ambassador in the UN Sustainable Development Goals’ initiative. Bogdan holds a BSc in Financial Economics from University of Essex and graduated from Abingdon & Whitney College. He is a co-founder and CEO of NewSpace Capital GP S.A.
/episode/index/show/enorthstar/id/34535510
info_outline
Patrick Maciariello, Compass Diversified
12/05/2024
Patrick Maciariello, Compass Diversified
Pat Maciariello is Chief Operating Officer of Compass Group and a member of Compass Diversified’s Investment Committee, which is responsible for evaluating all of the organization’s investment opportunities. In this role, he manages Compass’s investment teams and is responsible for financial and strategic oversight of its subsidiaries. Pat is currently a director and the Chairman of BOA and Lugano Diamonds. He is also a director of 5.11, Inc., ErgoBaby, Altor Solutions, and the Sterno Group. Pat joined Compass Diversified in 2005. Before that, he was with Bain & Company and Deutsche Banc Alex Brown. Pat is a graduate of the University of Notre Dame and Columbia Business School. He lives in San Juan Capistrano, CA with his wife, his two daughters, and their dog and cat, Rocky and Adrian. In his free time. he loves horse racing, fantasy football, hiking and doing escape rooms with his family. When he was younger (and fitter) he was an avid runner and completed eight marathons.
/episode/index/show/enorthstar/id/34301135
info_outline
Jeff Jenkins - Bernhard Capital Partners
11/21/2024
Jeff Jenkins - Bernhard Capital Partners
Jeff Jenkins is a Founder and Partner of BCP. He serves as a member of the Investment Committee, serves on the Portfolio Committee and is involved in all areas of the firm’s investment activities. Prior to founding BCP, Jeff spent ten years working for The Shaw Group where he served many vital positions. During his tenure at Shaw, Jeff served as Chief Operating Officer of Shaw Environmental and Infrastructure, where he was responsible for operations and business development. Prior to this role, he served as President of the Commercial, State, and Local group within the Environmental and Infrastructure division. Before moving into his operating roles, Jeff served as Vice President of the Office of the Chairman where he led overall corporate development and placed a special emphasis on mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures and business development efforts. Prior to joining Shaw, Jeff was a Corporate and Securities Attorney at Vinson & Elkins LLP where his practice focused primarily on mergers and acquisitions, private equity and venture capital, and public securities work in a broad range of industries. Jeff received his B.A. from Louisiana State University and his J.D. from Louisiana State University after attending law school at the University of Texas.
/episode/index/show/enorthstar/id/34085641
info_outline
Mark Strauch - Alpine Investors
11/07/2024
Mark Strauch - Alpine Investors
Mark is a founding partner and President of Alpine. Mark also co-founded ASG, the firm’s vertical SaaS platform. He has been involved as board member in over 25 past and present Alpine investments. Prior to Alpine, Mark has served in several CEO roles for venture and PE-backed businesses and has over 30 years of experience as an investor and operator. Mark received his MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and his Bachelors of Science in Industrial Engineering from Lehigh University, where he graduated with honors and served as a four-year letter winner and captain of the baseball team.
/episode/index/show/enorthstar/id/33831707