In this continuation of their conversation on portfolio performance, co-hosts Lloyd Metz (ICV Partners), Doug McCormick (HCI Equity Partners), and Sean Mooney (BluWave) move from diagnosis to action: what to actually do once you know a business isn’t performing to plan. They cover how to tell a temporary headwind from a structural problem, where to start on revenue and cost fixes, and how to balance quick liquidity levers with long-term value creation. From pricing strategy and marketin...

Private equity is messy in real time. In this episode, co-hosts Lloyd Metz (ICV Partners), Doug McCormick (HCI Equity Partners), and Sean Mooney (BluWave) lay out practical ways to spot trouble early, separate market shifts from operator errors, and use forward indicators, not just rear-view financials, to steer. They cover KPI design by business model, forecasting discipline, the “support before swap” approach to diagnosis, and when to move to interim leadership while hiring the perman...

Sean Mooney shares a quick update from the Best But Never Final team. With deal flow, board work, and summer schedules in full swing, the podcast is taking a short break until after Labor Day. Sean reflects on the original vision for the show, offers suggestions for catching up, and previews what’s ahead. Whether you’re new to private equity or deep in the game, there’s plenty to dig into while we’re away. For more information on the podcast, visit bestbutneverfinal.buzzsprout.com and embark ...

Board meetings are a critical tool for private equity firms to drive strategy, track progress, and unlock value. In this episode, Sean Mooney, Lloyd Metz, and Doug McCormick explore how private equity boards operate, from setting agendas and assembling members to balancing tactical updates with strategic discussions. They discuss the importance of preparation, the role of independent directors, and how to ensure that board meetings foster alignment and productive decision-making. Whether you’...

Consolidation strategies are a proven way to create value in fragmented markets, but execution is everything. In this episode, Doug McCormick walks through the key principles of launching and scaling a buy-and-build platform, sharing lessons learned from a real-world example in the lawn care industry. Joining Sean Mooney and Lloyd Metz, Doug dives into the essential elements of consolidation success, from developing the investment thesis to building scalable infrastructure and engaging entrep...

Private equity is evolving rapidly, and staying ahead requires innovation in both diligence and value creation. In this episode, Sean Mooney, Lloyd Metz, and Doug McCormick explore the latest tools, trends, and strategies that are reshaping the private equity landscape in 2025. The conversation dives into cutting-edge approaches to due diligence, including advancements in data analysis, tech diligence, and digital market studies. They also discuss how private equity firms are reimagining valu...

Tariffs are at the center of a rapidly changing global trade landscape, creating both challenges and opportunities for businesses. In this episode, Sean Mooney, Lloyd Metz, and Doug McCormick are joined by Michael Allen, co-founder of Beacon Global Strategies, to explore the state of U.S. trade policy, its impact on private equity, and how businesses can adapt. Michael provides an inside look at the current administration's approach to tariffs, bilateral trade negotiations, and the implicatio...

Merger integration is a critical component of private equity strategies, especially in buy-and-build models. In this episode, Sean Mooney, Lloyd Metz, and Doug McCormick break down what it takes to successfully integrate acquisitions, why careful planning is essential, and the risks that come with getting it wrong. From cultural alignment and change management to IT systems and operational processes, the team provides actionable insights for portfolio companies and investors alike. Whether it...

In this featured episode, we’re excited to share a conversation from Thoma Bravo’s Behind the Deal podcast. Join managing partner Holden Spaht as he sits down with Leagh Turner, CEO of Coupa, to explore how Thoma Bravo and Coupa are revolutionizing business spend management, leveraging AI, and driving innovation post-acquisition. Hear how Coupa is transforming inefficiencies in the $33 trillion global trade ecosystem using its $7 trillion transaction dataset and AI-driven insights. Leagh also...

In this episode, Sean Mooney, Doug McCormick, and Lloyd Metz are joined by Carl Press of Thoma Bravo and Kevin MacDonald, CEO of Bluesight, to share a behind-the-scenes look at scaling a software company from a bootstrap startup to a private equity-backed category leader. Kevin reflects on his fourteen-year journey, from self-funding and navigating tough markets to leveraging venture capital and eventually partnering with private equity to drive growth and achieve ambitious goals. Carl provid...

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 operation...

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 direc...

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 chal...

In this episode, Golub Capital’s Senior Managing Director, Greg Cashman, joins Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney to uncover the critical role of direct lenders in private equity. Greg shares Golub’s transition from private equity to direct lending, the importance of alignment between lenders and PE sponsors, and their underwriting strategies for companies and sponsors. Explore how private credit markets have evolved, what makes the best sponsors stand out, and why 2025 is shaping up...

Hosts Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney review the major themes shaping private equity in 2024, including liquidity challenges, market shifts, and investor dynamics. They discuss strategies to prepare for 2025 amid potential changes in interest rates, inflation, and emerging opportunities in industrials, food, and infrastructure services. With insights into M&A activity, CEO evaluations, and aligning investor expectations with portfolio performance, this episode offers practical...

In this episode, hosts Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney are joined by Paul Ryan, former Speaker of the House, now a partner at Solamere Capital. Speaker Ryan delves into his transition from a distinguished career in public service to the private equity sector, highlighting his enduring passion for economics and his strategic choice to focus on lower middle market private equity. The discussion explores the unique value private equity brings to liquidity provision, business growth, ...

In this encore presentation from February 20th, Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney discuss the strategic considerations behind exiting a private equity investment. With an anticipated wave of deals in the coming year, understanding when to sell and how to do it effectively is crucial. This episode covers the importance of exit timing, various exit mechanisms including dividend recaps, partnership deals, and ESOPs, and how to prepare for a successful sale. Whether considering selling ...

Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, Sean Mooney, and operating partners Mary Rachide from ICV and Bob Hund from HCI delve into value creation in private equity. They discuss the role of operating partners in enhancing portfolio company growth, from due diligence to strategic execution. The episode covers aligning company vision with actionable strategies, the importance of stakeholder collaboration, and the balance between innovation and risk management. Mary and Bob share their experiences in drivin...

Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney share pivotal experiences from their private equity careers, focusing on due diligence surprises, the impact of personal challenges on professional relationships, and complex business scenarios. They emphasize the importance of comprehensive background checks, cultural sensitivity in international deals, and strategic problem-solving in high-stakes situations. This episode provides insights into the nuanced world of private equity, where unexpected ...

In this episode of 'Best But Never Final,' Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney discuss the importance of strategic talent management in private equity. They explore the transition from traditional HR to advanced human capital strategies, emphasizing the critical role of hiring, team building, and organizational design in driving business success. The conversation covers practical strategies for hiring, including preparation, execution, and effective onboarding, providing private equit...