Episode 80.  The professional careers of many impressive people have spanned some combination of investing (or private equity), operating (and/or founding a business) and advising. But when and how do we consider the right balance and the right time for each?

In this episode of the Lifetime at Work podcast, host Greg Martin interviews Robert Levin, an M&A expert and founder of CIS Ventures. Levin shares his journey from working in various industries and founding companies to transitioning into private equity. 

They discuss Levin's extensive experience, covering topics like the evolution of private equity, the opportunities in lower middle market businesses, raising capital, advisory roles, and the key differences between being an operator and investor. Levin also gives advice on how to navigate the intricacies of raising capital, the importance of having the right team, and strategic thinking, particularly in leveraging emerging technologies like AI. 

The episode provides valuable insights for entrepreneurs, investors, and business operators looking to understand the complexities and opportunities within the private equity landscape.

• 00:00 Introduction to Lifetime at Work Podcast
• 00:23 Meet Robert Levin: From Founder to Private Equity
• 01:20 Robert's Early Life and Career Beginnings
• 04:01 Transition to Private Equity and Advisory Work
• 05:07 Understanding the Private Equity Landscape
• 10:12 Private Equity's Impact on Various Industries
• 13:27 Comparing Roles: Operator vs. Private Equity Investor
• 20:10 Future Opportunities in Private Equity
• 28:57 Challenges in Matching Investors and Businesses
• 29:43 Early Stage Struggles and Investor Expectations
• 31:22 Importance of People in Business Success
• 34:17 Recruiting vs. Hiring: Building the Right Team
• 37:15 Raising Capital: Strategies and Advice
• 44:53 Interviewing Investors: A Crucial Skill
• 49:43 Final Thoughts and Contact Information