Join us as Troy Rosales(Connexa Capital) shares his journey from community college to Cornell University, his roles at Houlihan Lokey and Platinum Equity, and his current work with Connexa Capital. Troy discusses the differences between venture capital and private equity, strategies for transferring to Ivy League schools, and cultural insights from Cornell. He offers advice on finance sector interviews, skill development, and venture investing. Learn about key metrics for early-stage investment, balancing hype with fundamentals, and minimizing portfolio losses. The episode concludes with Troy's advice on risk-taking and career opportunities.

(0:00) Introduction to The Investor podcast and guest Troy Rosales

(2:15) Current venture ecosystem, trends, and Troy's early career influences

(4:11) Troy's journey from community college to Cornell University

(9:31) Transition to Houlihan Lokey and experiences in investment banking

(10:35) Troy's move to Platinum Equity and venture into private equity

(14:14) Joining Connexa Capital and differences between venture capital and private equity

(21:18) Strategies for transferring to Ivy League schools

(26:24) Cultural differences and initial observations at Cornell

(30:10) Interview processes across banking, private equity, and venture capital

(41:11) Insights into private equity recruitment and skill development

(46:06) Trends and value creation in private equity and venture capital

(49:30) Fundamentals of venture investing and advice for fund applicants

(51:14) Key metrics for early stage investment and the importance of customer metrics

(53:42) The role of co-investors and dealing with proprietary deal flow

(55:06) Balancing hype and fundamentals in venture capital investments

(56:04) Strategies for minimizing portfolio losses and maximizing returns

(57:20) Return profiles of emerging managers versus mega funds

(58:31) Final advice on risk-taking and career opportunities