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 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

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’re refining your approach or learning how boards work, this episode offers key insights for making meetings count.

Episode Highlights:

2:27 - The strategic purpose of PE board meetings and how they differ from weekly updates.

4:02 - Preparation benefits: How crafting the deck helps teams prioritize objectives.

10:02 - Board composition explained: PE team members, independent directors, and management.

18:48 - The role of independent directors: Strategic value and practical benefits.

27:01 - Structuring meetings: Financial updates, strategy reviews, and actionable takeaways.

34:13 - Avoiding pitfalls: Keeping board discussions strategic, not bogged down by readouts.

47:20 - Board logistics: Meeting frequency, in-person sessions, and practical considerations.

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

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 entrepreneurial owners.

The team explores topics like market selection, integration strategies, and how to position a business for the next phase of growth. If you’re considering consolidation strategies or looking to optimize your existing approach, this episode is packed with insights for private equity professionals and business leaders alike.

Episode Highlights:

2:21: Defining core focus areas for consolidation: Subscription revenue, recurring services, and market potential.

3:38: Regional dynamics: Why geography matters and how to build density before scaling nationally.

4:41: Developing a proven investment thesis: Recognizing white space in competitive markets.

9:26: Building the flywheel: How initial acquisitions set the foundation for growth.

16:09: Keeping owner-operators engaged: Strategies for rolling equity and aligning interests.

24:02: Unlocking the benefits of scale: Efficiency in purchasing, customer acquisition, and operational KPIs.

33:37: Integration best practices: Building internal capabilities and avoiding common pitfalls.

36:51: Creating long-term buyer appeal: Building a platform that’s scalable and ready for future growth.

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