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 actionable ways entrepreneurs, private equity firms, and portfolio companies can implement AI for immediate ROI, from creative assistance to operational efficiency. The group also examines the broader policy, regulatory, and workforce implications of AI, tackling challenges like privacy, cybersecurity risks, and organizational change management. Whether you're a business owner, private equity professional, or simply curious about AI’s potential to reshape industries, this episode offers both practical tips and thought-provoking future predictions.

Episode Highlights

02:10: Sean explains BluWave’s adoption of AI, including why 2022 marked a breakthrough for implementing proprietary AI tools.

9:44: Practical advice for entrepreneurs and small business owners on getting started with AI tools like ChatGPT and Snowflake.

23:16: Using visualization platforms like Sigma and HEX to make data actionable and gamify business metrics.

41:26: Doug and Sean discuss the biggest opportunities for private equity firms to integrate AI, from deal sourcing to portfolio company optimization.

55:10: Sean highlights the growing risks of voice deepfakes and fraud, offering insights into protecting businesses against AI-enabled threats.

For more information on the podcast, visit bestbutneverfinal.buzzsprout.com and embark on your journey to private equity excellence today.

Visit us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/best-but-never-final-podcast/
Visit us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/bestbutneverfinal/

For information on HCI Equity Partners, go to https://www.hciequity.com
For information on ICV Partners, go to https://www.icvpartners.com
For information on BluWave, go to https://www.bluwave.net

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 both LPs and success in deal-making, how sourcing strategies evolve from industry expertise, and why relationships with investment bankers and direct outreach are critical. Whether you’re a business owner or a private equity professional, this episode outlines the foundational strategy behind deal selection and sourcing.

Episode Highlights

2:07: Doug and Lloyd discuss why staying within an investment thesis matters for LPs and how firms develop their areas of focus.

8:46: The importance of specialization: How focus, relationships, and expertise enhance credibility with business owners and deal sources.

19:48: Building investment theses: Tracking data, trends, and customer behavior to unlock adjacent opportunities.

34:08: Strategies for deal sourcing: Working with investment bankers, targeting specific sectors, and building long-term credibility.

50:52: The future of private equity marketing: How firms can build brands, leverage new tools, and attract opportunities directly.

For more information on the podcast, visit bestbutneverfinal.buzzsprout.com and embark on your journey to private equity excellence today.

Visit us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/best-but-never-final-podcast/
Visit us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/bestbutneverfinal/

For information on HCI Equity Partners, go to https://www.hciequity.com
For information on ICV Partners, go to https://www.icvpartners.com
For information on BluWave, go to https://www.bluwave.net

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 dynamic environment. Lloyd shares insights from a portfolio company aiding corporations in navigating federal policies and mitigating geopolitical challenges, while the group discusses what makes these businesses scalable, cash-generating, and attractive for investment.

Episode Highlights

2:27: Lloyd and Doug break down methods for sorting through massive amounts of information to uncover actionable investment ideas.

10:35: A focused thesis on how geopolitical tensions are shifting supply chains and driving demand for new infrastructure.

19:48: Deep dive into a portfolio company addressing enterprise risks and helping corporations adapt to government policies.

28:14: Building scalable professional services firms: From partnership models to enterprise value creation.

37:32: Leveraging insight into geopolitical dynamics for future investment opportunities and emerging industry trends.

For more information on the podcast, visit bestbutneverfinal.buzzsprout.com and embark on your journey to private equity excellence today.

Visit us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/best-but-never-final-podcast/
Visit us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/bestbutneverfinal/

For information on HCI Equity Partners, go to https://www.hciequity.com
For information on ICV Partners, go to https://www.icvpartners.com
For information on BluWave, go to https://www.bluwave.net