How I Invest with David Weisburd

By David Weisburd

How I Invest with David Weisburd is a podcast that interviews the world's leading institutional investors. Previous guests include The Ford Foundation, Northwestern University Endowment, CalPERS, Step... more

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The podcast currently has 292 episodes available.

How I Invest with David Weisburd episodes:

January 23, 2026E289: The Evolution of Private Credit and What Comes Next
Why did private credit secondaries emerge, and what problem do they solve for investors?
David Weisburd speaks with Rakesh Jain about building one of the world’s largest private credit secondary platforms at Pantheon, the mechanics of liquidity in private markets, and how seasoned portfolios differ from primary credit origination. Rick explains how diversification, underwriting discipline, and alignment shape risk-adjusted outcomes across cycles.
Disclaimer: This episode was recorded in 2025. Market conditions, data, and opinions discussed reflect that time period.
Highlights:
How Pantheon identified the need for credit secondaries
Defining the investor value proposition in a nascent market
Key differences between credit and private equity secondaries
Sources of value in seasoned credit portfolios
Managing diversification across thousands of underlying loans
LP versus GP-led secondary transactions and trade-offs
Mitigating adverse selection through sourcing and diligence
Misunderstood risks and correlations in private credit
The role of credit secondaries in institutional and wealth portfolios
Guest Bio:
Rakesh Jain is Global Head of Private Credit at Pantheon, where he oversees one of the largest private credit secondary platforms globally. He has extensive experience across credit investing, portfolio construction, and platform building, and has played a central role in developing Pantheon’s approach to liquidity solutions, diversification, and risk management in private credit markets. Earlier in his career, he held senior roles at Morgan Stanley, Goldman Sachs, and Citigroup.
Our Podcast now receives more than 300,000 downloads a month. Are you interested in sponsoring an episode? Please email David Weisburd at [email protected].
Sponsor:
AlphaSense is the AI-powered market intelligence platform trusted by 85% of the S&P 100, helping investment professionals make faster, more confident, data-driven decisions. Built for hedge funds, asset allocators, private venture capital firms, and investment bankers, AlphaSense uses advanced AI and powerful search across premium proprietary content to surface the insights that matter most—before the market moves. Elevate your research and stay ahead of the competition. Visit https://www.alpha-sense.com/howiinvest/ to learn more.
Stay Connected with David Weisburd:
X/Twitter: @dweisburd
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dweisburd/
Weisburd Capital: https://www.weisburdcapital.com/
Stay Connected with Rick Jain
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/rakesh-j-6b539/
Questions or topics you want us to discuss on How I Invest? Email us at [email protected].
Disclaimer:
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment, financial, legal, or tax advice. Nothing in this episode should be interpreted as an offer to buy or sell any securities or to participate in any investment strategy. All opinions expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not represent the views of Weisburd Capital. Participants may hold positions or have financial interests in the companies, funds, or investments discussed. Any references to specific investments are for illustrative purposes only. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of capital. Past performance is not indicative of future results, and any forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties. Any third-party data or opinions have not been independently verified. Listeners should conduct their own research and consult their own advisors before making any investment decisions.
(0:00) Introduction
(1:19) Developing investment process and scaling at Pantheon
(3:16) Evolution of the private credit market
(5:37) Diversification strategies in private credit
(9:00) Credit secondaries: use cases and investor benefits
(10:56) Strategies in LP and GP-led investing
(14:01) Addressing adverse selection in credit secondaries
(18:29) Building a $12 billion private credit franchise
(21:13) Enhancing GP relationships as a secondary investor
(22:27) Risks and misconceptions in the private credit market
(26:16) Innovations and institutional products in private wealth
(28:17) Tax efficiency and capital appreciation strategies
(31:30) The future of private credit at Pantheon
(33:03) Career advice for finance professionals
(35:37) Incorporating private credit secondaries in portfolios
(37:57) Utilizing evergreen funds for investment
(39:17) Closing remarks
...more
40min
January 22, 2026E288: Inside a PE Fund Ranked #1 in IRR, DPI, and TVPI
How do you raise $875M in one of the hardest fundraising markets in decades and still outperform on DPI, IRR, and culture?
In this episode, I sit down with Jesse D. Serventi and Atif Gilani, Founding Partners of Renovus Capital Partners, to unpack what actually compounds in private equity over 15+ years. We break down why staying in the lower end of the lower middle market creates structural advantage, how talent density became their real edge, and why portfolio construction—not deal hype—is the hidden driver of net returns. Jesse and Atif also share how Renovus evolved from three founders doing everything into a scaled firm built to last decades, not cycles.
Highlights:
How Renovus raised $875M while many peers struggled
Why sub-$10M EBITDA businesses create more “at bats”
Purchase price discipline and playing the game on “easy mode”
Talent density as the true compounding advantage
Boomerang CEOs and the Renovus ecosystem effect
Evolving from deal makers to firm builders
Recycling capital to invest ~120% of LP commitments
Why holding great businesses longer beats forced exits
“Invest and investigate” as a portfolio construction edge
Choosing LPs as long-term partners, not one-off capital
Guest Bio:
Jesse D. Serventi and Atif Gilani are Founding Partners of Renovus Capital Partners, a private equity firm focused on founder-owned businesses in the lower middle market. Prior to Renovus, Jesse was an investment professional at Leeds Equity Partners and began his career at Citigroup in investment banking and private equity. Atif was a Managing Director at Leeds Equity Partners and started his career in M&A at Merrill Lynch. Together, they have spent more than 15 years building Renovus into a scaled, culture-driven firm known for strong DPI, disciplined portfolio construction, and long-term alignment with founders, executives, and LPs.
Our Podcast now receives more than 300,000 downloads a month. Are you interested in sponsoring an episode? Please email David Weisburd at [email protected].
Sponsor:
AlphaSense is the AI-powered market intelligence platform trusted by 85% of the S&P 100, helping investment professionals make faster, more confident, data-driven decisions. Built for hedge funds, asset allocators, private venture capital firms, and investment bankers, AlphaSense uses advanced AI and powerful search across premium proprietary content to surface the insights that matter most—before the market moves. Elevate your research and stay ahead of the competition. Visit https://www.alpha-sense.com/howiinvest/ to learn more.
Stay Connected with David Weisburd:
X/Twitter: @dweisburd
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dweisburd/
Weisburd Capital: https://www.weisburdcapital.com/
Questions or topics you want us to discuss on How I Invest? Email us at [email protected].
Disclaimer:
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment, financial, legal, or tax advice. Nothing in this episode should be interpreted as an offer to buy or sell any securities or to participate in any investment strategy. All opinions expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not represent the views of Weisburd Capital. Participants may hold positions or have financial interests in the companies, funds, or investments discussed. Any references to specific investments are for illustrative purposes only. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of capital. Past performance is not indicative of future results, and any forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties. Any third-party data or opinions have not been independently verified. Listeners should conduct their own research and consult their own advisors before making any investment decisions.
(0:00) Introductions
(2:47) Playing in the lower middle market and growth perspectives
(8:42) Team dynamics and hiring talent with potential
(14:32) Evolution of LP mix and portfolio strategy
(22:01) Managing short-term orientation and founder partnerships
(24:29) Invest and investigate philosophy with business examples
(27:15) Fund investment sizing, durability, and advice for longevity
(29:19) Closing remarks
...more
31min
January 21, 2026E287: What Separates Top Decile Managers from Everyone Else
What separates enduring investment firms from those that quietly break as they scale?
In this episode, I talk with Chris Brimsek, Managing Partner of CAB Advisory, about the unseen mechanics behind building durable alternative investment firms. Drawing from his experience as Chief of Staff to David Rubenstein and former COO of Carlyle’s $15B Infrastructure & Energy business, Chris explains why culture, judgment transfer, and succession—not deal mechanics—are the true bottlenecks to long-term performance. We unpack how elite leaders create environments without intellectual hierarchy, why forgiveness builds trust faster than perfection, and how emerging managers can avoid the most common traps as they scale.
Highlights:
Why the best firms eliminate intellectual hierarchy, not decision hierarchy
How great leaders use mistakes to build confidence and trust
“Expect what you inspect”: using questions to shape culture
Why most GPs underestimate the challenge of running a business, not a fund
The difference between managing deals and building a firm
Succession as knowledge and judgment transfer—not titles or economics
Lessons from fighter pilot debriefs applied to investment decision-making
Why non-economic factors dominate talent retention
How GP stakes are reshaping incentives and firm-building
The biggest silent risk facing emerging managers today
Guest Bio:
Chris Brimsek is the Managing Partner of CAB Advisory, where he serves as a trusted advisor to founders and leadership teams of alternative investment managers. Previously, he was Chief Operating Officer of The Carlyle Group’s Infrastructure & Energy business and a member of Carlyle’s Global Private Equity Operations team. Chris began his career as Chief of Staff to Carlyle Co-Founder David Rubenstein and was part of the executive group during Carlyle’s IPO. He holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and a bachelor’s degree from Washington & Lee University.
Our Podcast now receives more than 300,000 downloads a month. Are you interested in sponsoring an episode? Please email David Weisburd at [email protected].
We’d like to thank AlphaSense for sponsoring this episode!
Sponsor:
AlphaSense is the AI-powered market intelligence platform trusted by 85% of the S&P 100, helping investment professionals make faster, more confident, data-driven decisions. Built for hedge funds, asset allocators, private venture capital firms, and investment bankers, AlphaSense uses advanced AI and powerful search across premium proprietary content to surface the insights that matter most—before the market moves. Elevate your research and stay ahead of the competition. Visit https://www.alpha-sense.com/howiinvest/ to learn more.
Stay Connected with David Weisburd:
X/Twitter: @dweisburd
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dweisburd/
Weisburd Capital: https://www.weisburdcapital.com/
Stay Connected with Chris Brimsek :
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisbrimsek/
Questions or topics you want us to discuss on How I Invest? Email us at [email protected].
Disclaimer:
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment, financial, legal, or tax advice. Nothing in this episode should be interpreted as an offer to buy or sell any securities or to participate in any investment strategy. All opinions expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not represent the views of Weisburd Capital. Participants may hold positions or have financial interests in the companies, funds, or investments discussed. Any references to specific investments are for illustrative purposes only. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of capital. Past performance is not indicative of future results, and any forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties. Any third-party data or opinions have not been independently verified. Listeners should conduct their own research and consult their own advisors before making any investment decisions.
(0:00) Introduction
(1:15) Intellectual curiosity and leadership at Carlyle
(4:51) Best practices for engaging junior personnel and creating a culture of open communication
(8:51) The role of incentives in retaining talent and differences between banking and asset management
(13:02) Challenges and strategies for emerging managers in investment firms
(18:52) Trends in alternatives and basics for LPs evaluating managers
(20:29) Intentionality, innovation, and succession in investment firms
(24:23) Challenges in launching new products and managing distraction costs
(28:00) Importance of honest communication and common problems GPs hide from LPs
(34:51) Role and impact of GP stakes in the market
(38:00) Addressing LP skepticism and misconceptions about GP stakes
(41:39) Industry changes and timeless career advice
(45:26) Strategic thinking and the value of intellectual curiosity in career development
(47:41) Closing remarks
...more
48min
January 20, 2026E286: How LPs Can Actually Find Alpha in Venture
How well do venture capital returns really reflect skill versus structure?
In this episode, David Weisburd speaks with Abe about what large-scale AngelList data reveals about seed investing, power-law returns, and why traditional assumptions around expected value, conviction, and diversification often break down. Abe explains how adverse selection shapes outcomes, why access matters more than insight, and where data-driven strategies may — and may not — apply in venture capital.
Highlights:
Why venture capital behaves differently across seed, Series A, and later stages
How power-law dynamics challenge the idea of expected value
The role of adverse selection in early-stage investing
Why diversification can outperform concentrated conviction at seed
What AngelList data reveals about pricing, dilution, and markups
Why small checks often outperform large checks
The limits of quantitative models in startup selection
How common signals outweigh idiosyncratic insight
Using data to evaluate venture fund managers rather than startups
Guest Bio:
Abe is a consulting researcher at AngelList and CIO of Strawberry Tree Management Company which recently got renamed to AngelList Asset Management LLC, an independent RIA affiliated with AngelList. He works with large-scale venture data to study early-stage investing behavior, power-law returns, and fund performance, with a focus on understanding how structure, pricing, and access influence outcomes across the venture ecosystem.
Our Podcast now receives more than 300,000 downloads a month. Are you interested in sponsoring an episode? Please email David Weisburd at [email protected].
We’d like to thank AlphaSense for sponsoring this episode!
Sponsor:
AlphaSense is the AI-powered market intelligence platform trusted by 85% of the S&P 100, helping investment professionals make faster, more confident, data-driven decisions. Built for hedge funds, asset allocators, private venture capital firms, and investment bankers, AlphaSense uses advanced AI and powerful search across premium proprietary content to surface the insights that matter most—before the market moves. Elevate your research and stay ahead of the competition. Visit https://www.alpha-sense.com/howiinvest/ to learn more.
Stay Connected with David Weisburd:
X/Twitter: @dweisburd
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dweisburd/
Weisburd Capital: https://www.weisburdcapital.com/
Questions or topics you want us to discuss on How I Invest? Email us at [email protected].
Disclaimer:
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment, financial, legal, or tax advice. Nothing in this episode should be interpreted as an offer to buy or sell any securities or to participate in any investment strategy. All opinions expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not represent the views of Weisburd Capital. Participants may hold positions or have financial interests in the companies, funds, or investments discussed. Any references to specific investments are for illustrative purposes only. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of capital. Past performance is not indicative of future results, and any forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties. Any third-party data or opinions have not been independently verified. Listeners should conduct their own research and consult their own advisors before making any investment decisions.
(0:00) Introduction
(2:28) Insights from AngelList data and importance of share price
(9:28) Investment strategies and market efficiency in early-stage investing
(14:32) Power law distributions and their practical implications
(20:15) Seed stage investing and LP perspectives
(23:15) Quantum mechanics analogy and diligence strategies
(27:36) Portfolio strategies and management fees impact
(30:54) Specialized fund managers and adverse selection
(37:08) Check sizes and signal in seed investing
(42:15) Valuation, signal, and GP style drift
(45:02) Strawberry Tree Management Company strategy
(46:45) Quantitative GP selection and fund of funds approach
(50:38) Pricing power and variability in VC funds
(53:45) Broad investing in seed stage venture
(55:35) Key signals and the role of DPI
(58:12) Distinguishing skill from luck in early exits
(1:00:05) Following Abe Othman’s work and advice from Mike Maples
(1:01:50) Closing remarks
...more
1h 3min
January 19, 2026E285: The Lower Middle Market: Where Private Equity Still Generates Alpha
What does it take to build an investment firm outside the traditional private equity model?
David Weisburd speaks with Jeff Schwartz about founding Corbel Capital Partners, identifying opportunities in the lower middle market, and why structured capital fills a gap left by banks and large buyout firms. Jeff discusses the operational realities of scaling an investment platform, fundraising challenges, and how market inefficiencies continue to shape strategy selection.
Highlights:
The market gap that led Jeff to launch Corbel Capital Partners
Why traditional banks retreated from lower middle market lending
The difference between growing a firm horizontally versus vertically
How managing an investment firm differs from being an investor
Fundraising challenges for emerging and mid-sized managers
Using multiple strategies without outgrowing a core market focus
The role of SBIC leverage in enhancing return profiles
Why special situations investing is increasingly attractive
Aligning incentives across teams and strategies
Guest Bio:
Jeff Schwartz is the Founder and Managing Partner of Corbel Capital Partners, a private investment firm focused on structured capital solutions for lower middle market businesses. He is a senior private equity investment professional with extensive experience raising capital and executing leveraged buyouts, distressed debt-for-control investments, and structured equity transactions across multiple industries, with a focus on consumer products and retail, specialty manufacturing, and business services. Prior to founding Corbel in 2014, Jeff held senior roles at Ares Management.
Our Podcast now receives more than 300,000 downloads a month. Are you interested in sponsoring an episode? Please email David Weisburd at [email protected].
We’d like to thank @AlphaSense for sponsoring this episode!
Sponsor:
AlphaSense is the AI-powered market intelligence platform trusted by 85% of the S&P 100, helping investment professionals make faster, more confident, data-driven decisions. Built for hedge funds, asset allocators, private venture capital firms, and investment bankers, AlphaSense uses advanced AI and powerful search across premium proprietary content to surface the insights that matter most—before the market moves. Elevate your research and stay ahead of the competition. Visit https://www.alpha-sense.com/howiinvest/ to learn more.
Stay Connected with David Weisburd:
X/Twitter: @dweisburd
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dweisburd/
Weisburd Capital: https://www.weisburdcapital.com/
Stay Connected with Jeff Schwartz:
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-schwartz-corbel-capital
Questions or topics you want us to discuss on How I Invest? Email us at [email protected].
Disclaimer:
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment, financial, legal, or tax advice. Nothing in this episode should be interpreted as an offer to buy or sell any securities or to participate in any investment strategy. All opinions expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not represent the views of Weisburd Capital. Participants may hold positions or have financial interests in the companies, funds, or investments discussed. Any references to specific investments are for illustrative purposes only. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of capital. Past performance is not indicative of future results, and any forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties. Any third-party data or opinions have not been independently verified. Listeners should conduct their own research and consult their own advisors before making any investment decisions.
(0:00) Introduction
(1:30) Building a new investment firm and Transition from player to manager
(7:11) Building investor base and Scaling the team
(11:34) Recruiting, retention, and Leveraging SBIC capital
(18:46) Current market interests and Special situations competency
(23:26) Insights from Ares to Corbel and Building relationships in distressed markets
(25:39) Delivering capital on a timely basis and Accelerating success
(27:43) Closing remarks
...more
29min
January 16, 2026E284: Why Family Offices Invest Differently w/Robert Blabey
How do family offices approach investing differently from institutional capital?
David Weisburd speaks with Robert about building Align, identifying gaps between capital and resources in family offices, and why downside protection shapes every investment decision. Robert discusses private credit, opportunistic investing, shorter-duration strategies, and how collaboration among families creates a distinct and disciplined investment ecosystem.
All investment advisory services are offered through Align Private Capital LLC (“Align”). Align is an investment advisor registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Information presented herein should not be construed as investment advice. All investments involve some degree of risk, including the potential loss of principal. The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the speakers and do not necessarily wholly represent the opinions of Align.
Highlights:
The market gap that led to the creation of Align
Why family offices often lack institutional-scale resources
How Align evolved into an opportunistic investment platform
The role of private credit in generating risk-adjusted returns
Why inbound deal flow differs between families and institutions
A downside-first approach to evaluating all investments
The benefits of shorter-duration, mid-term investments
Why family offices collaborate rather than compete
Viewing alternatives as a portfolio rather than isolated bets
Guest Bio:
Robert is the Founder and CIO of Align, an investment firm serving family offices and managing an opportunistic investment platform focused on absolute returns. He has extensive experience overseeing alternative investments across private credit, public and private markets, and structured transactions, and previously served as CIO for multiple family offices. His work emphasizes capital preservation, disciplined risk management, and collaborative investing.
Our Podcast now receives more than 300,000 downloads a month. Are you interested in sponsoring an episode? Please email David Weisburd at [email protected].
#venturecapital #vc #startups #openlp #assetmanagement
Stay Connected with David Weisburd:
X/Twitter: @dweisburd
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dweisburd/
Weisburd Capital: https://www.weisburdcapital.com/
Stay Connected with Robert Blabely:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-blabey-260202/
Questions or topics you want us to discuss on How I Invest? Email us at [email protected].
Disclaimer:
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment, financial, legal, or tax advice. Nothing in this episode should be interpreted as an offer to buy or sell any securities or to participate in any investment strategy. All opinions expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not represent the views of Weisburd Capital. Participants may hold positions or have financial interests in the companies, funds, or investments discussed. Any references to specific investments are for illustrative purposes only. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of capital. Past performance is not indicative of future results, and any forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties. Any third-party data or opinions have not been independently verified. Listeners should conduct their own research and consult their own advisors before making any investment decisions.
(0:00) Introduction
(2:30) Opportunities and discipline in the alternatives market
(6:14) Family office co-investment dynamics and risk management
(14:00) Investment strategy and comparison to legendary investors
(19:04) Investment opportunities in uranium and nuclear energy
(22:46) Themes in the alternatives universe and yield curve control
(25:53) Career advice: Investing in networks and learning from experiences
(29:04) Conclusion and appreciation
(29:14) Closing remarks
...more
30min
January 15, 2026E283: How AI will Affect Financial Markets
What happens when the marginal cost of intelligence approaches zero?
David Weisburd speaks with Richard Socher about building U.com, the evolution of AI search and agents, and why infrastructure—not hype—will determine AI’s real economic impact. Richard shares a first-principles view on where AI creates value, how enterprises are deploying agents today, and what long-term shifts in labor, productivity, and education may follow.
Highlights:
Building You.com and focusing AI search on accuracy and data quality
Why AI agents depend on strong search and infrastructure layers
Early enterprise use cases across coding, legal, healthcare, and research
The idea of intelligence becoming cheap and its second-order effects
Why AI adoption is gradual but structurally inevitable
Jobs, agency, and the fallacy of fixed labor supply
How AI changes access to tutoring, healthcare, and personal assistance
Investing in AI from first principles: data availability and timing
Where regulation matters and where it risks overreach
Why computer science remains foundational in an AI-driven world
Guest Bio:
Richard is the Co-Founder and Managing Director at AIX Ventures and Co-Founder and CEO of You.com, the leading AI search infrastructure for enterprises. At AIX Ventures, he has led early investments into several fast growing and category defining AI startups including Hugging Face, Weights and Biases, Athelas, Profluent, Parallel Bio, and Assured Robot Intelligence (ARI).
Richard previously served as the Chief Scientist and EVP at Salesforce. Before that, Richard was the CEO/CTO of AI startup MetaMind, acquired by Salesforce in 2016. Richard received his Ph.D. in computer science from Stanford University in 2014 and later served as an adjunct professor. He is widely recognized as having brought neural networks into the field of natural language processing, inventing the most widely used word vectors, contextual vectors, and prompt engineering. He is one of the top-five most-cited researchers in NLP, with over 230,000 citations.
Our Podcast now receives more than 300,000 downloads a month. Are you interested in sponsoring an episode? Please email David Weisburd at [email protected].
Stay Connected with David Weisburd:
X/Twitter: @dweisburd
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dweisburd/
Weisburd Capital: https://www.weisburdcapital.com/
Stay Connected with Richard Socher:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardsocher/
Questions or topics you want us to discuss on How I Invest? Email us at [email protected].
Disclaimer:
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment, financial, legal, or tax advice. Nothing in this episode should be interpreted as an offer to buy or sell any securities or to participate in any investment strategy. All opinions expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not represent the views of Weisburd Capital. Participants may hold positions or have financial interests in the companies, funds, or investments discussed. Any references to specific investments are for illustrative purposes only. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of capital. Past performance is not indicative of future results, and any forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties. Any third-party data or opinions have not been independently verified. Listeners should conduct their own research and consult their own advisors before making any investment decisions.
(0:00) Introduction
(1:05) AI in enterprises and its impact on job markets
(4:22) Predictions for the economic impact of AI agents
(7:34) AI's role in evolving local news and early enterprise use cases
(8:49) AI investment strategies and Richard Socher’s fund principles
(14:06) AI regulation, comparison with crypto, and geopolitical aspects
(18:45) AGI, ASI, and AI's influence on math and programming
(21:14) Balancing AI optimism with potential risks and existential concerns
(25:01) Preparing future skills for AI-driven industries
(26:15) Interdisciplinary approach combining computer science
(27:09) Richard Socher's personal life insights
(28:13) Closing remarks
...more
30min
January 14, 2026E282: Why LPs are Investing into Independent Sponsors
What role do independent sponsors play in today’s lower middle market private equity ecosystem?
David Weisburd speaks with Tom Duffy about how TIFF partners with independent sponsors, why deal-by-deal investing can improve alignment, and what differentiates high-quality sponsors in a rapidly growing market. Tom explains how sourcing, economics, and hands-on diligence shape long-term GP relationships and inform future fund commitments.
Highlights:
TIFF’s dual business model: OCIO services and private market strategies
Growth of the independent sponsor market and what’s driving it
Why deal-by-deal investing can improve alignment and diligence
Key attributes that define high-quality independent sponsors
How flexibility and economics attract experienced PE professionals
Fee structures and GP commitment in sponsor-led transactions
Using early deals to underwrite long-term GP partnerships
The importance of sourcing differentiation and resilience
How sponsor relationships can evolve into fund investments
Guest Bio:
Tom Duffy is a Director on TIFF’s Private Market Investment Team, where he focuses on lower middle market private equity and early stage venture capital strategies. TIFF is an outsourced chief investment officer and private markets platform managing over $10 billion* in assets, with a long-standing focus on alternatives and private markets. Tom works closely with independent sponsors and emerging managers, underwriting both deals and long-term partnerships across the lower middle market.
*TIFF assets under management (AUM) is as of 9/30/25 and includes discretionary and non-discretionary client assets for which TIFF affiliates provide investment management or advisory services. The private markets portion of TIFF AUM is calculated based upon fund net asset value plus unfunded commitments. Calculation of TIFF AUM differs from the calculation of regulatory assets under management in TIFF’s Form ADV filings with the SEC and may differ from the AUM calculation methodologies used by other investment managers.
Our Podcast now receives more than 300,000 downloads a month. Are you interested in sponsoring an episode? Please email David Weisburd at [email protected].
Stay Connected with David Weisburd:
X/Twitter: @dweisburd
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dweisburd/
Weisburd Capital: https://www.weisburdcapital.com/
Stay Connected with Tom Duffy :
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-duffy-cfa-cfp/
Questions or topics you want us to discuss on How I Invest? Email us at [email protected].
Disclaimer:
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment, financial, legal, or tax advice. Nothing in this episode should be interpreted as an offer to buy or sell any securities or to participate in any investment strategy. All opinions expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not represent the views of Weisburd Capital. Participants may hold positions or have financial interests in the companies, funds, or investments discussed. Any references to specific investments are for illustrative purposes only. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of capital. Past performance is not indicative of future results, and any forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties. Any third-party data or opinions have not been independently verified. Listeners should conduct their own research and consult their own advisors before making any investment decisions.
(0:00) Introduction
(3:03) Independent sponsor market growth and saturation concerns
(7:25) Fee structures and long-term partnership benefits with TIFF
(10:54) Diligencing managers and alignment of interests
(15:57) Opportunities for non-pedigree sponsors and market state
(21:41) Closing remarks
...more
24min
January 13, 2026E281:The Tsunami of Pain Facing Venture Capital
Why do some venture-backed companies struggle to survive despite strong technology and teams?
In this episode, David Weisburd speaks with Trey Ward about the structural differences between software and hard-tech businesses, the predictable “Death Valley” many startups face, and what recent data suggests about the future of venture funding. Trey shares how capital intensity is often misunderstood, why graduation rates are declining, and how profitability can create a path forward when fundraising stalls.
Highlights:
Why strong conviction matters most when the market disagrees
How hardware and software revenue curves fundamentally differ
The misconception around capital intensity in deep-tech businesses
What “Death Valley” looks like for hard-tech startups
How investors distinguish failed companies from those with unmet potential
Data showing declining Series A–to–Series B graduation rates
Why a post-2022 venture funding hangover is accelerating failures
Acquiring venture-backed assets at a fraction of historical R&D spend
Using profitability as a strategy to give founders more time
Guest Bio:
Trey Ward is the Founder of Rook, an investment firm focused on acquiring venture-backed technology companies that have strong fundamentals but lack access to continued venture funding. He has spent his career investing in and operating across hardware, software, and deep-tech businesses, with a focus on capital discipline, long-term value creation, and paths to profitability outside the traditional venture model.
Our Podcast now receives more than 300,000 downloads a month. Are you interested in sponsoring an episode? Please email David Weisburd at [email protected].
Stay Connected with David Weisburd:
X/Twitter: @dweisburd
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dweisburd/
Weisburd Capital: https://www.weisburdcapital.com/
Stay Connected with Trey Ward:
LinkedIn:linkedin.com/in/thomasvwardiii
Questions or topics you want us to discuss on How I Invest? Email us at [email protected].
Disclaimer:
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment, financial, legal, or tax advice. Nothing in this episode should be interpreted as an offer to buy or sell any securities or to participate in any investment strategy. All opinions expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not represent the views of Weisburd Capital. Participants may hold positions or have financial interests in the companies, funds, or investments discussed. Any references to specific investments are for illustrative purposes only. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of capital. Past performance is not indicative of future results, and any forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties. Any third-party data or opinions have not been independently verified. Listeners should conduct their own research and consult their own advisors before making any investment decisions.
(0:00) Introduction
(4:04) Challenges and differentiators for hard tech startups
(7:46) Venture capital downturn and strategies for struggling assets
(14:07) Investment structures and management retention in acquisitions
(16:17) Closing remarks
...more
20min
January 12, 2026E280: The Art of Quiet Compounding w/Mark Sotir
Why do the best investors spend more time preparing for what can go wrong than forecasting what might go right?
In this episode, I talk with Mark Sotir, President of Equity Group Investments, about what it really means to invest with an owner’s mindset. Mark shares lessons from working alongside Sam Zell for nearly two decades, why staying alive matters more than maximizing any single outcome, and how long-term capital changes behavior inside portfolio companies. We break down why protecting downside creates asymmetry, how adaptability beats prediction, and why value creation comes from operating discipline, not transaction timing.
Highlights:
The difference between being an owner vs. a trader
Why “the hundred-year storm happens every ten years”
Preparing instead of predicting in volatile environments
Staying alive as the core compounding strategy
Why long holding periods create better outcomes than fast flips
Cash flow discipline as risk management
Why control enables transformation, not micromanagement
How flexibility inside companies prevents brittleness
Why value is created operationally, not transactionally
The danger of rigid planning in dynamic markets
Guest Bio:
Mark Sotir is the President of Equity Group Investments, the private investment firm founded by Sam Zell, where he oversees the firm’s investment portfolio and works closely with portfolio companies to improve strategy and operations. He also serves as Chair of the investment committee at Chai Trust Company, the corporate trustee for the Zell family trusts. Mark joined EGI in 2006 and has held senior leadership roles across operating companies, including as CEO of Sunburst Technology and President of Budget Group, with earlier experience at Coca-Cola. He holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and a BA from Amherst College.
Our Podcast now receives more than 300,000 downloads a month. Are you interested in sponsoring an episode? Please email David Weisburd at [email protected].
Stay Connected with David Weisburd:
X/Twitter: @dweisburd
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dweisburd/
Weisburd Capital: https://www.weisburdcapital.com/
Stay Connected with Mark Sotir:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-sotir-02577b4/
Questions or topics you want us to discuss on How I Invest? Email us at [email protected].
Disclaimer:
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment, financial, legal, or tax advice. Nothing in this episode should be interpreted as an offer to buy or sell any securities or to participate in any investment strategy. All opinions expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not represent the views of Weisburd Capital. Participants may hold positions or have financial interests in the companies, funds, or investments discussed. Any references to specific investments are for illustrative purposes only. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of capital. Past performance is not indicative of future results, and any forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties. Any third-party data or opinions have not been independently verified. Listeners should conduct their own research and consult their own advisors before making any investment decisions.
(0:00) Introduction
(0:28) Owner's mindset and risk management in private equity
(1:35) Adapting investment strategies and the "hundred year storm" concept
(2:22) The importance of capital structure and not over-leveraging
(3:42) Navigating unpredictable market changes and staying in business
(6:13) Dedicated capital base and long-term value creation
(11:41) Cash flow generation and disciplined investing
(12:20) Control in portfolio companies and leveraging multiple strategies
(16:07) Avoiding attachment and the importance of team diversity
(17:34) Balancing empathy with business decisions and founder transitions
(21:01) Founder readiness and adapting to company culture
(24:43) Business development, CRM strategies, and succession planning
(27:40) Leadership transition, trust, and optimizing operations
(29:23) Sourcing deals and the evolving landscape of private equity
(30:23) Closing remarks
...more
32min

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