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Today we take a deep dive into Private Equity  --- specifically, Lower Middle Market PE.  We sit down with experienced investor A.J. Tracey and discuss topics ranging from "what is the traditional path to PE?" to "what is a day in the life like?", and  "how important is the name of the college or firm you're coming from?".  We explore the differences between megafunds and MM/LMM PE as it pertains to investment strategy, nitty gritty of the job, and recruiting methods.  We also discuss the economics of pay, GP catchup, blind pools, when and how PE firms start collecting fees, and more. If you have ever considered working in PE or wanted to understand the world of Private Equity, THIS is the episode for you!

A.J. is currently in investor with Cartess Investment Partners, a lower middle-market private equity firm focused on investing with exceptional operators in the paper, packaging and food industries. Prior to joining Cartess, A.J. was a Principal with AGR Partners and a Vice President with Kainos Capital where he focused on investments in the agriculture and food industries. A.J. began his principal investing career as an Associate with CIC Partners. A.J. has an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and a BA from Brown University. A.J. resides in Southlake, TX with his wife and two children.

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