Jim and Adam Hirshorn join The LAB Podcast to share the story behind launching Onyx Canyon Partners.

Together, they bring decades of operational and investment experience—from Bain, Sealy, Potbelly, and Ares—into the lower middle market, where they see a unique opportunity to drive value.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why operators have an edge in private equity investing

• How culture and talent alignment fuel long-term growth

• Onyx Canyon’s investment thesis and first deal in youth sports

A conversation on bridging generations, building with values, and creating lasting impact in the private equity ecosystem.

Patrick Turner, Managing Director at VSS Capital Partners, joins Scott Estill and guest co-host Justin Wisnicki to unpack how structured capital enables founders to scale without giving up control.

They discuss:

• VSS’s approach to minority investing with downside protection

• How operational rigor creates value post-close

• Why founders choose growth capital over a full sale

• LP sentiment and the shift toward the lower middle market

• 600+ bolt-on acquisitions and what makes them work

If you're in private equity, a founder at an inflection point, or an operator focused on growth, this episode is a masterclass in alternative investing models and value creation.

In this episode of The LAB Podcast, hosts Scott Estill and Nick Creasey dive into the world of GP Stakes and flexible capital solutions with Ben Drylie-Perkins, Head of Investments at Cantilever Group. Ben provides insights into how Cantilever is uniquely positioned to support lower middle-market and middle-market private equity firms with capital and strategic guidance. The conversation covers the evolution of GP Stakes investing, the key challenges mid-market GPs face, and why a structured approach to liquidity and growth financing is crucial.

Ben also shares Cantilever’s differentiated investment strategy, emphasizing how they bring bulge-bracket expertise to an underserved segment. They discuss misconceptions about lower middle-market private equity, the importance of founder alignment, and what makes a successful fund manager. The episode is a must-listen for PE professionals, fund founders, and investors looking to better understand the GP finance landscape.

This episode of #TheLAB, Nick and Scott are joined by Neil Bansal, Managing Director at OMERS Private Equity. Neil shares his journey through investment banking, consulting, and leadership roles at major companies. Learn how he’s driving value creation with AI, data, and digital tools to transform portfolio companies. Perfect for finance and tech enthusiasts looking to understand the future of digital in private equity!

In this episode of The LAB, Scott and Nick chat with Dave Leyrer from 3L about Metropolis, a company transforming the parking industry with AI.

Discover how Metropolis uses AI to boost efficiency and customer experience, driving significant growth and strategic acquisitions like Premier Parking and SP Plus.

Dave shares insights into applying AI to traditional industries, highlighting the role of visionary leadership and strategic partnerships.

This episode offers valuable lessons on using AI to innovate and drive business success.

In this episode, Jon Lemelman joins us as we explore AI's transformative role in private equity.

We explore how AI is reshaping tasks like market research, replacing old-school methods with fast, data-driven insights.

Jon shares key strategies for integrating AI successfully, stressing the importance of clear problem-solving and secure data handling.

Discover the future of AI in private equity, from streamlining diligence processes to enhancing value creation.

Jon offers expert advice on navigating these changes, ensuring your firm stays ahead in today's competitive landscape.

In this episode, The LAB hits the road! Join Scott down in Baltimore with Kevin McAllister, Founder of Access Holdings, as they discuss a wide range of topics:

In this episode with Paul Swaney, Managing Partner of Swaney Group Capital, Paul shares actionable insights on value creation and business transformation. From the urgency of strategic onboarding to the establishment of a robust governance structure, Paul delves into his methodology of taking the guess-work out of business transformation. Whether you're a seasoned investor or new to the field, this podcast provides valuable strategies for driving success and maximizing returns.

In this episode, Nick and Scott are joined by Nadim Malik, CEO and Founder of SPS by Bain & Co, an information services firm that helps private equity firms, lenders, and M&A advisors and service providers optimize their business development effectiveness.

In this episode, Nick and Scott are joined by Ray Carey, Operating Partner at Level Equity.

Ray shares insights from his experience as a CEO and an operating partner, emphasizing the need for a customized approach to each company's unique challenges.

Ray was a three-time CEO and a private equity investment partner, before joining Level Equity to be the Head of NextLevel Operations.

As Head of the NextLevel Operations team, Ray’s primary role is to accelerate portfolio company growth by supporting their CEOs.