Podcasts about Private

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    Best podcasts about Private

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    Latest podcast episodes about Private

    Invest Like the Best with Patrick O'Shaughnessy
    Dan Sundheim - The Art of Public and Private Market Investing - [Invest Like the Best, EP.460]

    Invest Like the Best with Patrick O'Shaughnessy

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 24, 2026 75:18


    My guest today is Dan Sundheim. Dan is the founder and CIO of D1 Capital Partners. He thinks about markets and businesses constantly, and has built a career entirely around that obsession. He manages over $30B across both public and private markets, with investments in SpaceX, OpenAI and Anthropic, and a public portfolio of names you may never have heard of. Dan shares the story of the short case he wrote on Orthodontic Centers of America and posted on Value Investors Club, which crashed the stock, and helped him land his first job. He shares why he backed Anthropic at a moment when many people told him it was the Lyft to OpenAI's Uber, what reading Dario Amodei's essays reminded him of Jeff Bezos, and how he thinks about LLM business models through the lens of Netflix and Spotify. We spend time on the extraordinarily stressful moment in early 2021 when GameStop hit the firm, and what Dan believes is the single biggest tail risk facing the global economy right now. For the full show notes, transcript, and links to mentioned content, check out the episode page ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.  ----- Become a Colossus member to get our quarterly print magazine and private audio experience, including exclusive profiles and early access to select episodes. Subscribe at ⁠colossus.com/subscribe⁠. ----- ⁠Ramp's⁠ mission is to help companies manage their spend in a way that reduces expenses and frees up time for teams to work on more valuable projects. Go to⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠ramp.com/invest⁠⁠ to sign up for free and get a $250 welcome bonus. ----- Trusted by thousands of businesses, ⁠Vanta⁠ continuously monitors your security posture and streamlines audits so you can win enterprise deals and build customer trust without the traditional overhead. Visit ⁠vanta.com/invest⁠.  ----- ⁠WorkOS⁠ is a developer platform that enables SaaS companies to quickly add enterprise features to their applications. Visit⁠⁠ ⁠WorkOS.com⁠⁠⁠ to transform your application into an enterprise-ready solution in minutes, not months. ----- ⁠Rogo⁠ is the AI platform for finance. They're building agents for Wall Street that are trained to understand how bankers and investors actually do work: from diligence and modeling, to turning analysis into deliverables. To learn more, visit rogo.ai/invest. ----- ⁠Ridgeline⁠ has built a complete, real-time, modern operating system for investment managers. It handles trading, portfolio management, compliance, customer reporting, and much more through an all-in-one real-time cloud platform. Visit⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ridgelineapps.com⁠. ----- Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thepodcastconsultant.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠). Timestamps: (00:00:00) Welcome to Invest Like the Best (00:02:43) Intro: Dan Sundheim (00:03:58) The State of Public & Private Investing (00:07:32) Investing in OpenAI and Anthropic (00:10:22) LLMs Business Model (00:14:13) How LLMs are like Netflix and Spotify (00:17:08) Focus v. Scope (00:22:43) The Bear Case for Hyperscalers (00:26:36) The Software Sell-Off (00:31:08) If Scaling Laws Stopped (00:32:18) Advice to a 12-Year-Old Investor (00:33:54) GameStop: D1's Darkest Hour (00:37:14) The Pivotal Dinner with LPs (00:40:56) Staying Calm and Confident (00:42:08) Economic Optimism vs. Societal Uncertainty (00:44:26) Investing on SpaceX and Rivian (00:48:09) Why Dan Loves Shorting (00:48:51) Sources of Inefficiency in Today's Markets (00:51:45) The Importance of Loyalty (00:53:11) Dan's Group Chat for Founders (00:55:39) What Motivates Dan (00:57:28) Posting on Value Investors Club (01:01:46) What Dan Learned at Viking (01:04:22) The Beauty of Art (01:06:49) Under-appreciated Parts of the Global Economy (01:08:00) The US-China-Taiwan Collision Course (01:12:10) Good Leaders vs. Good Businesses (01:13:15) The Kindest Thing

    21.FIVE - Professional Pilots Podcast
    199.5 How Do You Build Fortune 100-Level Flight Ops at your Small Flight Department?

    21.FIVE - Professional Pilots Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 24, 2026 55:06


    Dylan and Max sit down with Aaron, Software Architect at Airplane Manager, to talk business aviation ops tech and where AI is headed. If you're running lean (two pilots, one tail, no dispatcher), this is the roadmap for reducing busywork without losing operational control. They dig into integrations, offline trip tools, and why "apps" might just become background APIs. Listen in and subscribe for more pilot-to-pilot ops talk. Check out the software Dylan and Max both use to run their departments: Airplane Manager Show Notes 0:00 Intro 2:01 Airplane Manager Overview 11:07 App, AI, and Security 21:08 Flight Operations Efficiency 36:18 Evolving Best Practices with Tech 49:39 Final Thoughts Our Sponsors Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast. Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more. Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful refining your application, their one-on-one coaching and insider knowledge give you a real advantage. Click here to learn more. The AirComp Calculator™ is business aviation's only online compensation analysis system. It can provide precise compensation ranges for 14 business aviation positions in six aircraft classes at over 50 locations throughout the United States in seconds. Click here to learn more. Vaerus Jet Sales — Vaerus means right, true, and real. Buy or sell an aircraft the right way, with a true partner to make your dream of flight real. Connect with Brooks at Vaerus Jet Sales or learn more about their DC-3 Referral Program. Harvey Watt — Offers the only true Loss of Medical License Insurance available to individuals and small groups. Because Harvey Watt manages most airlines' plans, they can assist you in identifying the right coverage to supplement your airline's plan. Many buy coverage to supplement the loss of retirement benefits while grounded. Click here to learn more. VSL ACE Guide — Your all-in-one pilot training resource. Includes the most up-to-date Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP, CFI, and CFII. 21.Five listeners get a discount on the guide—click here to learn more. ProPilotWorld.com — The premier information and networking resource for professional pilots. Click here to learn more.   Feedback & Contact Have feedback, suggestions, or a great aviation story to share? Email us at info@21fivepodcast.com. Check out our Instagram feed @21FivePodcast for more great content (and our collection of aviation license plates). The statements made in this show are our own opinions and do not reflect, nor were they under any direction of any of our employers.

    Let’s Get Vulnerable: Relationship and Dating Advice
    EP 629: Grief, Secure Relationships, and Healing

    Let’s Get Vulnerable: Relationship and Dating Advice

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2026 17:00


    This episode is a deeply personal one. I'm sharing from a place of real-time grief after an unexpected loss in my family, and I'm letting you see what it looks like to move through heartbreak as someone who has done the work to become securely attached. We're talking about grief, emotional safety, and what truly defines a secure relationship, not perfection, but repair. If you've ever numbed your pain, pushed love away when you needed it most, or believed that being “strong” meant not feeling… this episode is for you.Inside this episode:Why grief hits differently when you're securely attached - the difference between numbing your pain (like I did for years) and allowing yourself to feel it in a regulated, supported way.The truth about secure relationships - how I caught my old disorganized attachment patterns coming up in my marriage, and why secure love isn't about never having ruptures… it's about repair.How to stop running from your emotions and create emotional safety within yourself - because the depth at which you allow yourself to feel grief is also the depth at which you get to experience love, joy, and connection.Grief is not linear. There is no “right way” to do it. But I want you to hear this: if you are avoiding your emotions, numbing out, or telling yourself you're better off alone, that's not strength. That's a sign your nervous system doesn't feel safe enough yet. And healing is possible.The only way forward is through. And you don't have to do it alone.If you're ready to stop running from your emotions, rewire your attachment patterns, and embody secure attachment so you can have the kind of relationship where you are seen, heard, and loved, even on your worst days,I invite you to apply for my Private 1:1 Coaching container, Empowered Secure Love.We only have a few spots available due to the intensive nature of this work.Apply here:

    Becker Group C-Suite Reports Business of Private Equity
    The Markets Are Tanking, Lamborghini Exits EVs, & Is the Private Credit Market in Trouble? 2-23-26

    Becker Group C-Suite Reports Business of Private Equity

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2026 2:03


    In this episode, Scott Becker covers a market selloff, Lamborghini stepping back from electric SUVs, and Blue Owl Credit halting fund redemptions that signal potential stress in private credit.

    Work On Your Game: Discipline, Confidence & Mental Toughness For Sports, Business & Life | Mental Health & Mindset

    Empathy means understanding how someone else feels. In this episode, I break down why people don't ask for empathy equally. They usually demand it from those they think will give it, and stay quiet around those who won't. I believe empathy is often requested based on leverage, status, and perceived vulnerability. People calculate who feels safe to push and who doesn't. So the conversation isn't just about feelings. It's about power, positioning, and who holds the advantage in the moment. Show Notes: [03:40]#1 Empathy is a mandate from those who expect someone to yield. [14:21]#2 Power determines who gets empathy versus who gets accountability. [20:17]#3 Empathy is a tool used to suspend standards selectively. [24:42]#4 Empathy is almost always enforced downward, never upward. [25:58] Recap Episodes Mentioned: 3221: Why Christianity Is Openly Disrespected [Part 1 of 2] 3222: Why Christianity Is Openly Disrespected [Part 2 of 2] Next Steps: --- Power Presence is not taught. It is enforced. If you are operating in environments where hesitation costs money, authority, or leverage, the Power Presence Mastermind exists as a controlled setting for discipline, execution, and consequence-based decision-making. Details live here: http://PowerPresenceProtocol.com/Mastermind  This Masterclass is the public record of standards. Private enforcement happens elsewhere. All episodes and the complete archive: → WorkOnYourGamePodcast.com 

    On The Tape
    The 'Blue Owl' In The Private Credit Coal Mine

    On The Tape

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2026 31:51


    Dan Nathan and Guy Adami are joined by Jen Saarbach and Kristen Kelly of The Wall Street Skinny to discuss two major developing market stories ahead of meeting in Miami for the iConnections Global Alts conference. The first topic is stress in private credit, centered on Blue Owl's retail-focused semi-liquid vehicle (Blue Owl Capital Corp II) facing heavy redemptions and gating, highlighting the liquidity mismatch between retail redemption needs and long-dated loan assets. They contrast the gated evergreen structure with Blue Owl's publicly traded BDC that was trading roughly 20% below NAV, discuss Blue Owl's reported loan sales near NAV, and explore why the issue is pressuring related stocks like Blue Owl and Blackstone despite an S&P 500 that appears indifferent. The group connects the private credit conversation to how AI/data center buildouts are financed, including references to Meta-related structures and concerns about CoreWeave's ability to raise capital for data center obligations, and notes that credit markets often reprice quickly only after complacency breaks. The second topic is prediction markets, focusing on Kalshi and its partnership with Tradeweb to publish analytics and potentially enable institutional trading of binary outcomes on events like Fed decisions and macro data, raising questions about democratized access, liquidity constraints, regulatory gaps, spoofing, and the role of insider information, along with implications for politics and whether more information is always better. Show Notes 1 big thing: Trump's huge tariff loss (Axios) Blue Owl permanently halts redemptions at private credit fund aimed at retail investors (FT) Wall Street Bond-Trading Hub Tradeweb Strikes Deal With Kalshi (Bloomberg) Exclusive: Supreme Court tariff ruling makes over $175 billion in US revenue subject to refunds, Penn-Wharton estimates (Reuters) —FOLLOW USYouTube: @RiskReversalMediaInstagram: @riskreversalmediaTwitter: @RiskReversalLinkedIn: RiskReversal Media

    CNBC's
    Tariffs, Banks & Private Credit Jitters… And Crypto Below $65K 2/23/26

    CNBC's "Fast Money"

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2026 43:35


    Fast Money is live from sunny Miami Beach for the iConnections Global Alts Conference, as stocks try to find their footing with tariffs, AI, and financials all in the crosshairs. Plus, we dig into the state of private credit as fresh concerns ripple through the space. And don't miss the next move in crypto after a drop below $65,000, Novo's selloff on new trial results, and the opportunities in Japan as the Nikkei hovers just below records.  Fast Money Disclaimer Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Talking Real Money
    Extra Income?

    Talking Real Money

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2026 30:31


    Don and Tom examine Kiplinger's list of top retirement side gigs and separate practical ideas from pipe dreams, questioning whether executive coaching, IT consulting, online reselling, and landlord life truly offer “passive” or realistic income. They highlight more viable options like tutoring, handyman work, and tour guiding while emphasizing purpose over paycheck. Listener questions cover the risks of private credit and alternative investments, plus smart strategies for consolidating multiple 401(k) accounts without triggering unintended tax consequences. 0:04 Old guys still podcasting intro 1:38 Kiplinger's retiree side-gig list 3:26 Executive coaching reality check 4:40 AI and tech consulting skepticism 6:32 Consulting and client ego problems 7:53 AI vs. content writers 9:06 Bookkeeping for small businesses 9:29 Online selling isn't easy money 11:19 Tutoring as a steady option 12:17 Handyman work pays well 13:44 Tour guide opportunities 14:17 Landlord myth of “passive” income 16:00 Where to find side gigs 16:47 Bridge jobs for healthcare 17:08 Purpose-driven retirement 19:14 Private credit and alternative risks 23:46 Consolidating multiple 401(k)s Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Jewish History with Rabbi Dr. Dovid Katz
    How did Mordecai & Esther know the contents of the private conversation between Haman and the King?

    Jewish History with Rabbi Dr. Dovid Katz

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2026 25:15


    When Haman fell from power, did Mordecai gain possession of Haman's "Jeffery Epstein Files"?

    Meredith for Real: the curious introvert
    Ep. 332: The Cult Origins of Teen Rehab: How are these places still open??

    Meredith for Real: the curious introvert

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2026 55:56


    How are these abusive teen rehab centers still open? Why are parents still sending their kids there? Can't they be shut down? Maia Szalavitz is an award-winning author and journalist who covers addiction and neuroscience. Her book, Help at Any Cost: How the Troubled-Teen Industry Cons Parents and Hurts Kids, is the first comprehensive look at systemic abuse in “tough love” programs and helped spur Congressional hearings & GAO investigations. In this episode, you'll hear how the abusive teen rehab centers featured in Netflix's The Program & Wayward (think Straight Inc., The Seed, Synanon & wilderness camps) began with tough love doctrine, why you can legally treat kids worse than prisoners, why parents aren't suing & why regulations just don't stick. We also weave in the perspective of struggling parents who feel that the anti-troubled teen industry is hurting their healing efforts.  If you like this episode, you'll also like episode 248: SURVIVING THE TROUBLED TEEN INDUSTRY: SEPARATING IDENTITY FROM EXPERIENCE [REMASTERED] Guest:https://x.com/maiasz https://maiasz.com/ Resources:Boy who was raised as a dog https://a.co/d/0bA3dxmi Pace Center for Girls Pensacola https://www.pacecenter.org/locations/florida/escambia-santa-rosa/ Gulf Coast Kids House https://www.gulfcoastkidshouse.org/ Greenhouse Counseling https://www.ghcpensacola.com/  Host:  https://www.meredithforreal.com/  https://www.instagram.com/meredithforreal/ meredith@meredithforreal.comhttps://www.youtube.com/meredithforreal  https://www.facebook.com/meredithforrealthecuriousintrovert  Sponsors: https://www.jordanharbinger.com/starterpacks/ https://www.historicpensacola.org/about-us/  02:00 — The cult origins: Synanon begins04:00 — “I must have needed that” psychology05:00 — The rattlesnake assassination attempt07:00 — The Seed and brainwashing teens08:00 — Straight Incorporated goes national10:00 — Why parents don't believe abuse reports12:00 — Utah wilderness programs rise13:00 — The death of Aaron Bacon14:00 — Moral panic & religious fear15:00 — Good parents, fatal decisions16:00 — Why regulation keeps failing17:00 — Regulatory capture in Utah20:00 — Unannounced inspections change everything22:00 — Why traumatized kids need gentleness27:00 — Warehouses of neglect28:00 — Should therapy have an FDA?29:00 — Renaming punishment as treatment32:00 — Exhausted parents & marketing fear34:00 — How small power corrupts42:00 — Why lawsuits rarely succeed44:00 — Private right of action explained45:00 — Does awareness help or hurt?46:00 — Educational consultants & kickbacks54:00 — Local resources for struggling families55:00 — Undoing drugs & keeping people aliveRequest to join my private Facebook Group, MFR Curious Insiders https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BAt3bpwJC/

    THE IDEAL BALANCE SHOW: Real talk, tips & coaching on everything fitness, family & finance.
    Make Your March 2026 Budget with Us: A Step-by-Step Monthly Money Plan

    THE IDEAL BALANCE SHOW: Real talk, tips & coaching on everything fitness, family & finance.

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2026 27:47


    Curious? Watch Our Money Makeover Bootcamp!Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!Budget besties, February is basically a blink—so we're not letting March sneak up on us without a plan. In this episode, Shana and Vanessa walk us through their simple, repeatable monthly budget process: close out the current month first, then build the next month's budget in a specific order so your money feels calmer, more automated, and way less “where did it go?!”We follow a real-life client example (two teacher incomes, lots of moving parts, still totally doable) to show how every income source counts, why we only list minimum debt payments at first, how to wrangle subscriptions without shame, and how to create spending categories that stay consistent month to month.And yes—sometimes savings buckets pause when life is life-ing (hello trips + birthdays). The win is that the plan still works, and you can still make progress—without defaulting to credit cards.Let's Take Our Relationship To The Next Level:1️⃣ Facebook Group ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/facebook2️⃣ Be on the Podcast ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/livecall3️⃣ Private 1-on-1 Coaching. ➡︎ budgetbesties.com/coachingThis podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not personal financial, legal, or tax advice.This description may contain affiliate links, meaning we may get a commission at no cost to you if you click & purchase.Click here to view our privacy policy.

    MRKT Matrix
    More Private Credit Concerns + Chart Check on $NVDA, $CRM & $CRWV

    MRKT Matrix

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2026 45:11


    SUBSCRIBE to our newsletter: http://riskreversal.substack.com/ Dan Nathan, Guy Adami & Carter Worth break down the top market headlines and bring you stock market trade ideas for Monday, February 23rd. Article Mentioned Data centres seek credit ratings to unlock billions in funding for AI push (FT) -- Learn more about FactSet: https://www.factset.com/lp/mrkt-callFollow us on Twitter @MRKTCallFollow @GuyAdami on TwitterFollow @CarterBWorth on TwitterFollow us on Instagram @RiskReversalMediaLike us on Facebook @RiskReversalWatch all of our videos on YouTube Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Fringe Radio Network
    Bruce Collins - Wonderland Avenue Murders with Private Investigator Nils Grevillius

    Fringe Radio Network

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2026 77:57 Transcription Available


    Bruce talks with Famous Private Investigator Nils Grevillius about the famous Wonderland Avenue Murders as well as talking about his investigative techniques as well as his views on Epstein and the Nancy Guthrie situation.

    Stories From Women Who Walk
    60 Seconds for Motivate Your Monday: We Have the Power to Hold Musk & DOGE Criminally Accountable for Pirating Private SSA Data

    Stories From Women Who Walk

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2026 2:32


    Hello to you listening in Spokane, Washington! Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Motivate Your Monday and your host, Diane Wyzga. Christopher Armitage writing The Existentialist Republic on Substack posted an article entitled Democrats Can Launch Criminal Investigations into DOGE, Today. According to Armitage dozens of state investigations have the power to bring criminal actions to hold Musk/DOGE accountable for pirating private Social Security Administration (SSA) data and releasing it to third parties. Click HERE to read the article and get ready to take steps to e-mail your County Prosecutor, Governor and Attorney General.     Following are three email templates you can use if you live in the Great State of Washington. For all other states, please check the Substack article comments to find yours. If you don't see your state, comment in the post to receive your state's relevant statutes and templates to email. Thank you for listening and taking action wherever your feet touch the ground! Email 1: To your Washington State County Prosecutor Dear, I'm writing to request that your office refer a matter to Attorney General Nick Brown for criminal investigation under RCW 43.10.232. In a January 16, 2026 court filing in AFSCME v. Social Security Administration (D. Md., No. 1:25-cv-00596), the U.S. Department of Justice admitted that employees of the Department of Government Efficiency, while embedded at the Social Security Administration, transferred agency data to an unauthorized third-party server called Cloudflare outside all SSA security protocols. The SSA has confirmed it cannot determine what data was shared or whether it still exists on that server. A DOGE team member also sent an encrypted file believed to contain the names and addresses of roughly 1,000 people to the Department of Homeland Security and DOGE leadership, and the SSA has been unable to access the file to verify its contents. The filing further revealed that a DOGE employee signed a "Voter Data Agreement" with a political advocacy group seeking to match Social Security records against state voter rolls to overturn election results in certain states. The SSA made two Hatch Act referrals to the Office of Special Counsel as a result. Separately, NPR has reported that DOGE engineer Aram Moghaddassi contacted the Florida governor's office about state voter data while working simultaneously at SSA and DHS, and that a DOGE associate publicly claimed to have matched SSA data against voter rolls at a political rally. SSA records include the personal information of Washington residents in [your county]. This conduct may constitute violations of Washington's identity theft statute (RCW 9.35.020) and the Washington Cybercrime Act (RCW 9A.90). Federal officials do not have blanket immunity from state criminal prosecution when they exceed the scope of their authorized duties. I'm asking you to refer this matter to Attorney General Brown so his Criminal Justice Division can investigate whether Washington residents were victims of state crimes. The AG's office has confirmed it needs a referral from a county prosecutor or the governor to act. You have the authority to open that door. Thank you for your time and your service to our community. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Address] Email 2: To the Washington State Governor Ferguson Dear Governor Ferguson, I'm writing to request that your office refer a matter to Attorney General Nick Brown for criminal investigation under RCW 43.10.232. In a January 16, 2026 court filing in AFSCME v. Social Security Administration (D. Md., No. 1:25-cv-00596), the U.S. Department of Justice admitted that employees of the Department of Government Efficiency, while embedded at the Social Security Administration, transferred agency data to an unauthorized third-party server called Cloudflare outside all SSA security protocols. The SSA has confirmed it cannot determine what data was shared or whether it still exists on that server. A DOGE team member also sent an encrypted file believed to contain the names and addresses of roughly 1,000 people to the Department of Homeland Security and DOGE leadership, and the SSA has been unable to access the file to verify its contents. The filing further revealed that a DOGE employee signed a "Voter Data Agreement" with a political advocacy group seeking to match Social Security records against state voter rolls to overturn election results in certain states. The SSA made two Hatch Act referrals to the Office of Special Counsel as a result. Separately, NPR has reported that a DOGE engineer contacted the Florida governor's office about state voter data while working simultaneously at SSA and DHS, and that a DOGE associate publicly claimed to have matched SSA data against voter rolls at a political rally. These actions may constitute violations of Washington's identity theft statute (RCW 9.35.020) and the Washington Cybercrime Act (RCW 9A.90). The personal information of millions of Washington residents is contained in SSA records. Federal officials do not have blanket immunity from state criminal prosecution when they exceed the scope of their authorized duties, and a state conviction cannot be erased by a presidential pardon. The Attorney General's office has confirmed it requires a referral from a county prosecutor or the governor to investigate and prosecute criminal matters. I'm asking you to make that referral so Attorney General Brown can determine whether Washington residents were victims of state crimes. Thank you for your leadership. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Address] Email 3: To the Washington State Attorney General's Office The Honorable Nick Brown, I understand that the Washington Attorney General's office requires a referral from a county prosecutor or the governor to investigate and prosecute criminal matters. Toward that end I've written to both my [insert your county's name]  County prosecutor [insert the prosecutor's name] and Governor Ferguson requesting that they make such a referral. Specifically, I've asked them to refer the matter of DOGE employees' handling of Social Security Administration data, as described in the January 2026 DOJ court filing and subsequent reporting, for investigation under Washington's identity theft statute (RCW 9.35.020) and the Washington Cybercrime Act (RCW 9A.90). I wanted your office to be aware that this request is coming, and I hope Attorney General Brown will be prepared to act when the referral arrives. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Address You're always welcome: "Come for the stories - Stay for the magic!" Speaking of magic, I hope you'll subscribe, share a 5-star rating and nice review on your social media or podcast channel of choice, bring your friends and rellies, and join us! You will have wonderful company as we continue to walk our lives together. Be sure to stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website, email me to arrange a no-obligation Discovery Call, and stay current with me as "Wyzga on Words" on Substack. Stories From Women Who Walk Production Team Podcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story Arts Music: Mer's Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron Music ALL content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.  If you found this podcast episode helpful, please consider sharing and attributing it to Diane Wyzga of Stories From Women Who Walk podcast with a link back to the original source.

    Law of Code
    #175 - On-chain fundraising with Gabe Shapiro of MetaLex

    Law of Code

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2026 48:20


    Can companies raise capital and issue securities directly on-chain without intermediaries or lawyers?Gabe Shapiro is the founder of MetaLeX and a longtime crypto lawyer focused on tokenization, legal automation, and decentralized capital markets.Timestamps: ➡️ 1:20 — Stablecoins, DeFi “kill switches,” and the new crypto narrative➡️ 5:44 — Why custodial assets create governance power over blockchains➡️ 11:04 — Tokenized securities vs. today's DTCC intermediary model➡️ 21:36 — How MetaLeX enables direct issuer-to-investor capital raises➡️ 23:12 — Private keys as legal signatures and atomic deal execution➡️ 27:58 — Privacy concerns and on-chain legal infrastructure➡️ 33:43 — Low-KYC accreditation and composable legal credentials➡️ 34:23 — Reversibility, bearer instruments, and issuer controls➡️ 39:34 — TradFi, L2s, and whether Wall Street is “eating crypto”➡️ 43:38 — What regulators are missing: CFTC derivatives rules and UCC reformSponsor: This episode is brought to you by the Decentralization Research Center (DRC), a nonprofit think tank advocating for decentralization in emerging technologies. Learn more at thedrcenter.org.Resources:

    Becker Group Business Strategy 15 Minute Podcast
    The Markets Are Tanking, Lamborghini Exits EVs, & Is the Private Credit Market in Trouble? 2-23-26

    Becker Group Business Strategy 15 Minute Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2026 2:03


    In this episode, Scott Becker covers a market selloff, Lamborghini stepping back from electric SUVs, and Blue Owl Credit halting fund redemptions that signal potential stress in private credit.

    Passion Church Yukon
    Facing Giants Together | David & Goliath | Family Sunday at Family Church

    Passion Church Yukon

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2026 23:15


    What do you do when the giant in front of you feels impossible to defeat? On Family Sunday at Family Church, we gathered kids and adults together to revisit one of the most powerful stories in Scripture — David and Goliath from 1 Samuel 17. Through a fun and unforgettable live illustration, we were reminded that: Giants don't disappear just because we ignore them. You can't fight spiritual battles with worldly methods. Preparation happens in private before victory happens in public. Sometimes God removes the giant… and sometimes He gives you strength to face it. Parents, kids, families — this message is for all of us. Whether your giant is fear, anxiety, finances, marriage struggles, parenting challenges, or something no one else sees, the battle belongs to the Lord. We are called to fight in the name of Jesus — not in our own strength. If this message encouraged you, share it with someone who needs strength to face their giant today. #FamilyChurch #DavidAndGoliath #FacingGiants #ChildlikeFaith #faithinaction 00:00 – Family Sunday Introduction 01:00 – Why Jesus Welcomes Children 02:00 – Setting Up the Story of David & Goliath 03:00 – The 40-Day Standoff 04:00 – David Arrives on the Scene 05:00 – Saul's Armor Doesn't Fit  07:30 – Five Smooth Stones 08:30 – Meet Goliath (Live Illustration) 11:00 – David's Bold Declaration 13:00 – The Battle in the Valley 14:30 – What Giants Look Like Today 15:30 – You Can't Fight Like the World 17:30 – Preparation in Private 19:30 – Pray From the Heart 20:00 – Family Prayer Time 21:00 – Sometimes God Removes the Giant 22:00 – Closing Prayer

    Real Talk Kim
    Private Fire, Public Power!

    Real Talk Kim

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 22, 2026 41:15


    Thank you for tuning in to this episode of The Real Talk Kim Podcast. I'm so grateful that you're here. Every time you listen, share, and support, you're helping spread hope, healing, and the message of Jesus around the world. If this episode encouraged you, make sure to subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an update, and don't forget to subscribe to the Real Talk Kim YouTube channel for powerful messages, morning prayer sessions, and more uplifting content every week. If you're interested in advertising on this podcast or having Real Talk Kim  as a guest on your podcast, radio show, or TV show, reach out to collab@realtalkkim.com Let's stay connected! All things Real Talk Kim – realtalkkim.com All things Limitless Church – limitlesschurch.live Shop my Brand! – rtkstyle.com

    Work On Your Game: Discipline, Confidence & Mental Toughness For Sports, Business & Life | Mental Health & Mindset

    Clarity means I know exactly what I'm doing. No confusion. No guessing. Just clear steps and action. But when I bring that same clarity into a group, it can feel threatening because now someone has to decide, take responsibility, and be seen. Groups often survive on comfort, not precision. They like options open and roles blurry because that keeps everyone safe. The moment I make things clear, options close, accountability shows up, and the hiding stops. That's why groups sometimes push back on the very thing that would actually move them forward. Show Notes: [08:40]#1 Clarity forces accountability.  [16:54]#2 Clarity collapses plausible deniability. [21:44]#3 Clarity accelerates decision making before the group may be ready. [26:29] Recap Episodes Mentioned: 3382: Clarity Is A Revenue Strategy 2196: How To Create Clarity 1729: Are You Experiencing Growth -- Or Just In The Wrong Place? How To Know With Clarity 112: Key To Success: Clarity 3541: Why I Don't Speak At Colleges Next Steps: --- Power Presence is not taught. It is enforced. If you are operating in environments where hesitation costs money, authority, or leverage, the Power Presence Mastermind exists as a controlled setting for discipline, execution, and consequence-based decision-making. Details live here: http://PowerPresenceProtocol.com/Mastermind  This Masterclass is the public record of standards. Private enforcement happens elsewhere. All episodes and the complete archive: → WorkOnYourGamePodcast.com 

    Optimal Health Daily
    3303: Should You Share Your Goals or Not by Victoria Jung with Free Form Fitness on When to Keep Goals Private

    Optimal Health Daily

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 22, 2026 9:11


    Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3303: Victoria Jung explores the surprising psychology behind goal sharing, revealing how announcing your intentions might either boost your progress or sabotage it. By shifting focus from simply declaring end goals to sharing structured action steps and updates, you can harness community support while keeping your motivation alive. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://freeformfitness.ca/should-you-share-your-goals-or-not/ Quotes to ponder: "By speaking your goals out loud, your brain believes that you have achieved it." "Participants who shared their goal and their progress on Twitter lost more weight than those who did not." "Instead of your brain hearing the final goal, it hears a blueprint and a plan to achieve a goal." Episode references: Journal of Translational Behavioral Medicine: https://link.springer.com/journal/13142 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Optimal Health Daily - ARCHIVE 1 - Episodes 1-300 ONLY
    3303: Should You Share Your Goals or Not by Victoria Jung with Free Form Fitness on When to Keep Goals Private

    Optimal Health Daily - ARCHIVE 1 - Episodes 1-300 ONLY

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 22, 2026 8:41


    Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3303: Victoria Jung explores the surprising psychology behind goal sharing, revealing how announcing your intentions might either boost your progress or sabotage it. By shifting focus from simply declaring end goals to sharing structured action steps and updates, you can harness community support while keeping your motivation alive. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://freeformfitness.ca/should-you-share-your-goals-or-not/ Quotes to ponder: "By speaking your goals out loud, your brain believes that you have achieved it." "Participants who shared their goal and their progress on Twitter lost more weight than those who did not." "Instead of your brain hearing the final goal, it hears a blueprint and a plan to achieve a goal." Episode references: Journal of Translational Behavioral Medicine: https://link.springer.com/journal/13142 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Legacy Wealth
    Control Real Estate Without Owning It: Private Notes Explained (ft. Nick "The Note Guy" Legamaro)

    Legacy Wealth

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 22, 2026 58:14


    Private notes, seller financing, and data intelligence are changing how smart investors get to deals before the competition. In this episode, I break down how to control real estate without owning it — and how to position yourself ahead of everyone else in today's market. Most investors chase deals after they hit the MLS. By then, it's already competitive. The real advantage comes from understanding how banks structure deals, how professional note buyers think, and how to use private mortgage notes and seller financing to control assets without taking on unnecessary risk. In this conversation, we cover: - Why banks control real estate instead of owning it - The difference between investment-to-value and loan-to-value - How to structure private notes correctly - When seller financing makes sense - Why most investors look for the wrong signals - How behavioral data can help you get to opportunities before your competition If you're serious about building long-term cash flow, creating smarter exits, and gaining an edge in today's market, this episode will expand your thinking. //CONNECT WITH NICK Learn more about data intelligence and custom intent audiences at: https://dataaviator.com

    The Pomp Podcast
    Bitcoin Is About to Absorb a Historic Rotation | Jordi Visser

    The Pomp Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 21, 2026 52:36


    Jordi Visser is a veteran macro investor with over 30 years of market experience and the author of VisserLabs Substack. In this episode, we break down what's happening in software stocks, credit markets, and bitcoin — including how bitcoin could benefit in both inflationary and deflationary environments. We also explore real-world AI adoption, capital shifts, and a few surprising insights Jordi didn't see coming.========================Bitget (https://bitget.com/promotion/futures-tradfi?channelCode=regd&vipCode=nkew) is the world's largest Universal Exchange (UEX) (https://bitget.com/promotion/futures-tradfi?channelCode=regd&vipCode=nkew), serving over 125 million users with access to over 2M+ crypto tokens, and TradFi markets such as 100+ tokenized stocks, ETFs, commodities, FX and precious metal like Gold. At launch, users can trade 79 instruments with USDT directly with the App. Users can also enjoy high liquidity and low slippage, while trading these assets with up to 500x leverage. For more information on Bitget TradFi, visit this article (https://bitget.com/support/articles/12560603846859). For more information, visit: Website (https://bitget.com/) | Twitter (https://x.com/bitget) | Telegram (https://t.me/BitgetENOfficial) | LinkedIn (https://linkedin.com/company/bitget-global/) | Discord (https://discord.com/invite/bitget)For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com========================Simple Mining makes Bitcoin mining simple and accessible for everyone. We offer a premium white glove hosting service, helping you maximize the profitability of Bitcoin mining. For more information on Simple Mining or to get started mining Bitcoin, visit https://www.simplemining.io/========================Arch Public is an agentic trading platform that automates the buying and selling of your preferred crypto strategies. Sign up today at https://www.archpublic.com and start your automated trading strategy for free. No catch. No hidden fees. Just smarter trading.========================0:00 - Intro0:51 - Breaking down deflation & macro environment 5:49 - Why deflation pushes money into scarce assets12:40 - Software stocks, AI, & multiple compression18:45 - Why public companies may disappear20:35 - Tokenization, RWAs, & on-chain markets25:45 - What “agent swarms” actually are & security risks 38:42 - AI apps anyone can build & how to use AI40:48 - Private credit stress & Blue Owl49:45 - What Jordi is covering next

    Work On Your Game: Discipline, Confidence & Mental Toughness For Sports, Business & Life | Mental Health & Mindset

    In this episode, I break down why people argue over words instead of the real point. When someone can't challenge the substance of what you're saying, they retreat to semantics. They focus on tone, wording, or definitions because it feels safer than dealing with the actual issue. I explain how this is often about protecting identity, not seeking clarity. If you want to be a high-quality communicator, you have to listen to what someone is trying to say, not just pick apart how they said it. Show Notes: [03:26]#1 Semantics are used to avoid losing status. [08:49]#2 Semantics create moral cover. [15:15]#3 Semantics give the illusion of precision without risk.  [18:23] Recap Episodes Mentioned: 1955: How To Protect Your Freedom From Moralizers 2219: The 12 Work On Your Game Commandments [#1-3] Next Steps: --- Power Presence is not taught. It is enforced. If you are operating in environments where hesitation costs money, authority, or leverage, the Power Presence Mastermind exists as a controlled setting for discipline, execution, and consequence-based decision-making. Details live here: http://PowerPresenceProtocol.com/Mastermind  This Masterclass is the public record of standards. Private enforcement happens elsewhere. All episodes and the complete archive: → WorkOnYourGamePodcast.com 

    Keen On Democracy
    The Silicon Gods Must Have Their Blood: How Public Venture Capital Might Kill Venture Capitalism

    Keen On Democracy

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 21, 2026 38:19


    "They are changing venture capital from a 30% tax to 0% tax. If Robinhood succeeds, it makes Sequoia and Andreessen's business model untenable." — Keith TeareThe Silicon Gods must have their blood. And they've finally come for the funders of disruption, the venture capitalists, who are now being disrupted by something called Public Venture Capital (PVC). That, at least, is the view of That Was The Week publisher Keith Teare, who leads his newsletter this week with Robinhood's new venture fund. This new stock-trading app for millennials is going after Sequoia and Andreessen Horowitz—not by competing on deal flow, but by charging 0% carry instead of 20-30%. Robinhood promises it blows the doors off traditional venture capital.But Keith urges caution over PVCs. Robinhood is packaging late-stage private assets—companies like Databricks that would have IPO'd years ago but are staying private longer. By the time retail investors get access, employees are already cashing out through tender offers because they think the peak is near. The poster child: Figma, which did secondaries at $12 billion after Adobe's $20 billion acquisition failed. A lot of (dumb) people bought at the top and are now slightly less stupid.Fortunately, this week's tech roundup isn't just about get-rich-quick investment schemes. We also discuss Yasha Mounk's sobering experiment: he asked AI to write a political philosophy paper and found it "depressingly good"—publishable in an academic journal. Keith reframes this supposed "death of the humanities" as automation, not democratization. The humans aren't being leveled up; they're masquerading as producers while AI does the work. But craft still matters. When technology relieves humans of the mundane, he hopes, it elevates the special.Lastly but not least, we get to the abundance debate. Peter Diamandis and Singularity University have promised something called "exponential abundance" by 2035. Keith is sympathetic. I am not. The only thing I'm willing to guarantee is that we'll still be talking abundantly about abundance in 2035. And that the Silicon Valley Gods will have their blood. Five Takeaways●      Robinhood Is Charging 0% Carry: Sequoia and Andreessen take 20-30% of profits. Robinhood takes nothing. If they scale, the traditional VC model becomes untenable.●      But You're Buying at the Top: These are late-stage assets. Employees are selling through tender offers because they think peak valuation is near. Ask the people who bought Figma at $12 billion.●      AI Is Automating the Humanities: Yasha Mounk found AI could write "depressingly good" political philosophy. This isn't democratization—it's humans masquerading as producers.●      Craft Still Retains Its Power: Technology relieves humans of the mundane—and elevates the special. Creativity that breaks through will always command attention.●      The Abundance Debate Continues: Diamandis says abundance by 2035. Keith agrees land is already abundant. Andrew calls this "such a stupid thing to say." About the GuestKeith Teare is the publisher of That Was The Week and Executive Chairman of SignalRank. He is a serial entrepreneur and longtime observer of Silicon Valley. Keith joins Keen On America every Saturday for The Week That Was.ReferencesCompanies mentioned:●      Robinhood is launching a publicly listed venture fund, raising up to $1 billion at $25/share with 0% carry. They already have $340 million in assets including Databricks.●      Figma is cited as a cautionary tale: after Adobe's failed $20 billion acquisition, it did secondaries at $12 billion—many bought at the top.●      Polymarket is a prediction market platform that Robinhood has responded to by adding prediction markets to its offerings.People mentioned:●      Yasha Mounk wrote about AI writing "depressingly good" political philosophy papers that could be published in academic journals.●      Peter Diamandis and Dr. Alexander Wisner-Gross of Singularity University argue that exponential abundance is coming by 2035.●      Packy McCormick wrote about power in the age of intelligence.About Keen On AmericaNobody asks more awkward questions than the Anglo-American writer and filmmaker Andrew Keen. In Keen On America, Andrew brings his pointed Transatlantic wit to making sense of the United States—hosting daily interviews about the history and future of this now venerable Republic. With nearly 2,800 episodes since the show launched on TechCrunch in 2010, Keen On America is the most prolific intellectual interview show in the history of podcasting.WebsiteSubstackYouTubeApple PodcastsSpotify Chapters:(00:00) - Introduction: If it's Saturday, it must be revolution (02:11) - Robinhood's venture fund announcement (03:17) - What is Robinhood's day job? (07:43) - Secondary markets and tender offers (10:33) - Democratization or late-stage risk? (14:09) - Is Robinhood just gambling? (16:08) - Private vs. public market returns (19:02) - Is finance merging with betting? (24:23) - Blowing the doors off Sequoia and Andreessen (26:27) - Yasha Mounk: AI automating the humanities (28:47) - Where does power go in the age of AI? (30:42) - Craft retains its power (31:33) - The abundance debate (34:00) - Is land abundant? Andrew loses patience (00:00) - Chapter 15 (00:00) - Chapter 16 (00:00) - Introduction: If it's Saturday, it must be revolution (02:11) - Robinhood's venture fund announcement (03:17) - What is Robinhood's day job? (07:43) - Secondary markets and tender offers (10:33) - Democratization or late-stage risk? (14:09) - Is Robinhood just gambling? (16:08) - Private vs. public market returns (19:02) - Is finance merging with betting? (24:23) - Blowing the doors off Sequoia and Andreessen (26:27) - Yasha Mounk: AI automating the humanities

    Watchdog on Wall Street
    Revisiting Adam Smith's Capitalism

    Watchdog on Wall Street

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 21, 2026 39:40 Transcription Available


    Chris Markowski discusses the importance of understanding financial reality, the principles of Adam Smith's capitalism, and the moral philosophy behind economics. He critiques the current state of government involvement in the economy, the retirement crisis facing Gen X, and the flaws in traditional investment strategies. Markowski also highlights the entertainment nature of financial media and the missteps of private equity firms, particularly in relation to Ivy League investments. The episode concludes with a discussion on the implications of Goldman Sachs' connections to Jeffrey Epstein and the broader issues of accountability in the financial sector.

    The John Batchelor Show
    S8 Ep488: Bob Zimmerman reports Japanese private space startup ispace is struggling with severe engine development problems for its lunar landers, while archival images from New Horizons reveal Pluto's bizarre splotched surface and floating ice mountains

    The John Batchelor Show

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2026 6:27


      Bob Zimmerman reports Japanese private space startup ispace is struggling with severe engine development problems for its lunar landers, while archival images from New Horizons reveal Pluto's bizarre splotched surface and floating ice mountains, and a newly discovered dim galaxy hints at dark matter's vastness. 8

    Becker Group C-Suite Reports Business of Private Equity
    Is Private Credit in Trouble: The Blue Owl Capital Story 2-20-26

    Becker Group C-Suite Reports Business of Private Equity

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2026 1:58


    In this episode, Scott Becker examines Blue Owl's decision to halt retail fund redemptions, recent asset sales to meet withdrawals, and what the move signals about broader stress and exit challenges across the private credit market.

    Work On Your Game: Discipline, Confidence & Mental Toughness For Sports, Business & Life | Mental Health & Mindset

    People often confuse liking something with respecting it, and that's a mistake. In this episode, I explain why boundaries don't have to be liked to be respected. When I set clear, firm, and consistent boundaries, they remove ambiguity, and that's where real respect begins. Structure creates psychological order even if people feel emotional resistance to it. Respect follows clarity and consistency, not comfort. Show Notes: [02:47]#1 Boundaries remove negotiation, which creates stability.  [07:45]#2 Boundaries prevent emotional chaos. [11:34]#3 Boundaries expose intentions. [16:33] Recap Next Steps: --- Power Presence is not taught. It is enforced. If you are operating in environments where hesitation costs money, authority, or leverage, the Power Presence Mastermind exists as a controlled setting for discipline, execution, and consequence-based decision-making. Details live here: http://PowerPresenceProtocol.com/Mastermind  This Masterclass is the public record of standards. Private enforcement happens elsewhere. All episodes and the complete archive: → WorkOnYourGamePodcast.com

    Onward, a Fundrise Production
    55: IPO Roadshow: VCX is the public ticker for private tech

    Onward, a Fundrise Production

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2026 85:39


    IPO Roadshow: VCX is the public ticker for private techThe number of public companies has been cut in half over the past 25 years. The best private companies are staying private longer than ever. As a result, ordinary investors have been locked out of the biggest wealth-creation opportunities of this generation. With AI threatening to drive wealth inequality to new levels, Ben calls this a fairness problem as much as a financial one.His answer: take the Fundrise Innovation Fund public under the ticker VCX, creating the first publicly traded venture capital fund and a new category Ben calls the PVC (Public Venture Capital fund). In this episode, Ben and co-host Cardiff Garcia (Economic Innovation Group, New Bazaar podcast) examine the history of financial innovations, what VCX is, and what it means for the everyday American investor who's been locked out of private markets.For a deeper dive into these insights and more, listen to the full episode of the Onward podcast. You can learn more about VCX at https://www.getvcx.com.Questions or feedback? Drop us a note at Onward@Fundrise.com.Onward is hosted by Ben Miller, co-founder and CEO of Fundrise, with co-host Cardiff Garcia.About FundriseWith over 2 million users, Fundrise is America's largest direct-to-investor alternative asset investment platform. Since 2012, our mission has been to build a better financial system by empowering the individual. We make it easier and more efficient than ever for anyone to invest in institutional-quality private alternative assets — all at the touch of a button.More Info & DisclaimersInvesting in the Innovation Fund (the “Fund”) is speculative and involves substantial risks. You should purchase shares of the Fund only if you can afford a complete loss of your investment.Past performance does not guarantee future results. Current and future holdings are subject to risk. Returns of one company are not indicative of an investment in the Fund. To obtain Fund performance, visit getvcx.com. The Fund's most recent schedule of investments is available at getvcx.com.Investors should consider the Fund's investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses before investing. This information is included in the Fund Prospectus and can be accessed by calling (202) 804-0023. Read the prospectus carefully before investing.The Innovation Fund is publicly registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 as a non-diversified, closed-end management investment company.The Fund's portfolio will be concentrated in securities issued by technology companies and other investments that provide economic exposure to technology companies and as such, it may be subject to more risks than if it were broadly diversified across additional sectors and industries of the economy. Certain technology companies may face special risks that their products or services may not prove to be commercially successful. Technology companies are also strongly affected by worldwide scientific or technological developments, and as a result, their products may rapidly become obsolete. The Fund's investments in companies involved in, or exposed to, artificial intelligence-related businesses may be negatively impacted because of, among other things, limited product lines, markets, financial resources and/or personnel; intense competition and potentially rapid product obsolescence these companies may face; loss or impairment of intellectual property rights; and the inability to successfully develop products or services even after spending significant amount of resources.The Fund's investment in private company securities, whether made directly or indirectly (e.g., through derivatives or private pooled investment vehicles) are generally illiquid. Because private company securities are thinly traded, such securities may display especially volatile or erratic price movements, sometimes in response to relatively small changes in investor supply or demand or other market conditions.Nothing in the advertising material should be construed as tax advice, an offer, recommendation, or solicitation to buy or sell any security. All investing includes risk, including the possible loss of money you invest, and past performance does not guarantee future performance. Carefully consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses of the Fundrise Innovation Fund, LLC before investing.

    WSJ Minute Briefing
    Worries Mount Over Ordinary Investors' Exposure to Private Credit

    WSJ Minute Briefing

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2026 2:42


    Plus: The White House wants to ban investors with more than 100 single-family homes from purchasing additional homes. And S&P 500 companies are back to appointing fewer women and minority board directors. Luke Vargas hosts. Sign up for WSJ's free What's News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Squawk on the Street
    Hotter inflation, GDP Surprise, Exclusive With Blue Owl's Head of Credit 2/20/26

    Squawk on the Street

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2026 47:29


    Carl Quintanilla, Jim Cramer and David Faber reacted to a raft of economic data: Core PCE — the Fed's preferred inflation gauge — rose in December, while GDP showed much slower than expected economic growth in Q4. Private credit fears also in the spotlight: Blue Owl Co-President and Head of Credit Craig Packer joined the anchors at Post 9 for a wide-ranging and exclusive interview. Also in focus: CNBC has confirmed Nvidia is in talks to invest up to $30 billion in OpenAI as part of a funding round for the startup, Oil prices hit fresh six-month highs on U.S.-Iran tensions, bright spots Cramer sees in this market, Warner Bros. Discovery update, why one particular stock plummeted — down more than 48%. Squawk on the Street Disclaimer   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    THE IDEAL BALANCE SHOW: Real talk, tips & coaching on everything fitness, family & finance.
    Car Paid Off, Student Loan Debt Next? The Best Move for Your Budget | 530

    THE IDEAL BALANCE SHOW: Real talk, tips & coaching on everything fitness, family & finance.

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2026 15:21


    Curious? Watch Our Money Makeover Bootcamp!Ready? Buy Our Simplified Budget System Now!Amanda joined us to talk through a super relatable moment: they've built a solid budgeting system… and now the question is what to do with a big, scary student loan balance once the car is paid off. Add in military life + possible paycheck disruptions, and you've got a perfect “real life” money crossroads.The best part? Amanda's already doing the work—multiple spending accounts, savings buckets, paycheck-ahead living—and it literally protected their family during a potential shutdown pay delay. Budget bestie win of the year.

    Best Stocks Now with Bill Gunderson
    Friday Feb. 20, 2026 - We take a deep dive into Blue Owl and the "Private Credit" market on today's show...

    Best Stocks Now with Bill Gunderson

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2026 40:08


    The Investing Podcast
    GDP Data & How Bad is Private Credit? | February 20, 2026 – Morning Market Briefing

    The Investing Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2026 26:40


    Andrew, Ben, and Tom discuss this morning's GDP data and issues surrounding private credit. Join our live YouTube stream Monday through Friday at 8:30 AM EST:http://www.youtube.com/@TheMorningMarketBriefingPlease see disclosures:https://www.narwhal.com/disclosure

    Shape It Up Over 40 Podcast
    Movement That Boosts Energy Without the Gym - Weight Loss for Women Over 40

    Shape It Up Over 40 Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2026 16:33


    Movement That Boosts Energy Without the Gym If you're exhausted, more intensity may not be the solution. For high-achieving women over 40, the body no longer responds to force the way it once did. It responds to load management, nervous system regulation and recovery. In this episode, Nikki T breaks down: Why traditional workouts can increase fatigue after 40 The difference between performance-driven exercise and restorative movement Why your body resists “starting again” The three qualities of movement that actually rebuild energy If you've been pushing harder but feeling more depleted, this episode will shift your strategy. After 40, energy isn't created through pressure. It's restored through recalibration. If this resonated, you're likely not lacking discipline ... you're overloaded. Private coaching is where we restructure how stress, identity and leadership pressure are impacting your weight and energy. This is high-level, high-touch work for women ready to operate differently. Apply here https://www.weightlossforwomenover40.net/call 

    The Best Practices Show
    1011: Celebration of Private Practice - Dr. Christian Coachman

    The Best Practices Show

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2026 21:40


    Private practice is getting squeezed by complexity, competition, and promises that “bigger is better.” That pressure is pushing more dentists to consider selling, scaling, or giving up control. In this episode, Kirk Behrendt talks with Dr. Christian Coachman, dentist and educator, about why celebrating independent private practice matters, why quality in dentistry isn't scalable, and what private practitioners can do to stay clinically excellent without burning out. To learn how community, support, and smart strategy can help you protect your freedom and your standards, listen to Episode 1011 of The Best Practices Show!Main TakeawaysPrivate practice protects the dentist's freedom to make key decisions that support quality and patient-first care.Motivation, attention to detail, and passion can decline when a practice is sold and clinical decisions are influenced by outside ownership.Quality in dentistry is not scalable, and it typically drops as practices grow beyond a size that can be closely managed.The temptation to scale often hits when a dentist reaches a ceiling on fees but demand continues to grow.Independent dentists can gain many advantages of large organizations by joining a real community that offers support and shared resources.The increasing demands of technology, marketing, leadership, and management are pressuring private practitioners and fueling DSO interest.Many dentists who sell are financially relieved but still want their freedom back once non-compete periods end.Snippets00:00 Intro – Protecting Independent Private Practice01:12 Why Private Practice Matters02:45 Introducing Dr. Christian Coachman04:10 Celebrating the Freedom of Ownership06:30 The Current Challenges Facing Private Dentists08:55 The Mindset Shift Required to Stay Independent11:20 Why Community and Collaboration Matter13:40 Innovation in Modern Private Practice16:05 The Future of Independent Dentistry18:30 Why Events Like The Exchange Matter20:10 Final Thoughts – Choosing Freedom Intentionally21:32 OutroGuest Bio/Guest ResourcesDr. Christian Coachman is a dentist and dental technician known internationally for his work in dental communication, treatment planning, and interdisciplinary collaboration. He is the founder of Digital Smile Design and has spent decades working inside dental practices, observing patient interactions, and teaching clinicians how to communicate more effectively with patients and teams. He lectures globally and consults with dentists seeking to improve trust, case acceptance, and long-term patient relationships.Guest resources mentioned in the episode:Digital Smile Design: https://digitalsmiledesign.comDr. Christian Coachman on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chriscoachmanMore Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:The Best Practices Show:

    Watchdog on Wall Street
    Private Credit Panic? The Real Story Behind Blue Owl

    Watchdog on Wall Street

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2026 10:33 Transcription Available


    LISTEN and SUBSCRIBE on:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/watchdog-on-wall-street-with-chris-markowski/id570687608 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2PtgPvJvqc2gkpGIkNMR5i WATCH and SUBSCRIBE on:https://www.youtube.com/@WatchdogOnWallstreet/featured  Is the private credit market on the verge of a blow-up, or is it just a headline frenzy? This episode breaks down the Blue Owl $1.4B asset sale, what it really means for investors, and why short-term swings can mislead the public. From the rise of private credit and private equity to the decline of IPOs over the past decades, we reveal how Wall Street has evolved—and why caution and understanding intrinsic value matter more than hype.

    Becker Group Business Strategy 15 Minute Podcast
    Is Private Credit in Trouble: The Blue Owl Capital Story 2-20-26

    Becker Group Business Strategy 15 Minute Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2026 1:58


    In this episode, Scott Becker examines Blue Owl's decision to halt retail fund redemptions, recent asset sales to meet withdrawals, and what the move signals about broader stress and exit challenges across the private credit market.

    The Rebel Capitalist Show
    BREAKING: Private Credit Crisis Just Got Worse

    The Rebel Capitalist Show

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 19, 2026 40:30


    Rebel Capitalist Live VII: Protect & Grow Your Wealth Before the Next Crisis https://rcl.georgegammon.com/live Want the cheat code to protect and grow your wealth? Check out Rebel Capitalist Pro https://rcp.georgegammon.com/pro

    Work On Your Game: Discipline, Confidence & Mental Toughness For Sports, Business & Life | Mental Health & Mindset

    Consistency and rigidity may look the same, but they lead to very different results. Consistency means I stay aligned with my principles no matter the environment, while flexibility allows me to adjust how I execute. Rigidity is when I get attached to one specific way of doing things, even when the context changes. In this episode, I explain why high performers stick to standards but adapt their methods. Principles stay the same, but the process can change. Show Notes: [04:37]#1 Consistency is about principle.  [10:18]#2  Consistency builds predictability, whereas rigidity builds friction.  [14:39]#3 Consistency compounds and rigidity breaks [15:54] Recap Next Steps: --- Power Presence is not taught. It is enforced. If you are operating in environments where hesitation costs money, authority, or leverage, the Power Presence Mastermind exists as a controlled setting for discipline, execution, and consequence-based decision-making. Details live here: http://PowerPresenceProtocol.com/Mastermind  This Masterclass is the public record of standards. Private enforcement happens elsewhere. All episodes and the complete archive: → WorkOnYourGamePodcast.com 

    Spiritual Boss Babe with Stephanie Bellinger
    You're Not Going Backwards — You're Outgrowing Your Old Identity

    Spiritual Boss Babe with Stephanie Bellinger

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 19, 2026 12:14


    MKT Call
    Stocks Decline On Private Credit & Iran Fears

    MKT Call

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 19, 2026 7:20


    MRKT Matrix - Thursday, February 19th Stocks are back in a funk with the Dow down 300 points as investors fret about private credit, Iran (CNBC) What to Make of This Very Weird Market (WSJ) Why Risk-Loving Options Traders Are Flocking to Prediction Markets (WSJ) Walmart Sales Climb, Driven by Grocery and Online Gains (WSJ) Amazon surpasses Walmart in annual revenue for first time, as both chase AI-fueled growth (CNBC) Blue Owl Limits Investor Withdrawals, Stirring Private Credit Concerns (Bloomberg) Klarna stock sinks 25% after bad loan costs soar (FT) America Imported a Record Amount Last Year Despite Seismic Trade Policy  Changes (WSJ) US Mortgage Rates Fall to Lowest Level in More Than Three Years (Bloomberg) --- Subscribe to our newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://riskreversalmedia.beehiiv.com/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ MRKT Matrix by RiskReversal Media is a daily AI powered podcast bringing you the top stories moving financial markets Story curation by RiskReversal, scripts by Perplexity Pro, voice by ElevenLabs

    The Wall Street Skinny
    What No One Tells You about Investing in Private Markets feat. Goldman Sachs' Head of Alts, Kristin Olson

    The Wall Street Skinny

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 19, 2026 50:55


    Send a textKristin Olson, Goldman Sachs' Head of Alternatives for Wealth and Asset and Wealth Management, sits down with us for the most candid, no-fluff conversation about private equity and private credit we've ever had. .She walks us through the very real benefits of investing in private capital while also answering the cynical questions: do “retail” investors in private equity products like evergreen funds and perpetual funds get the A-team investors? Are those structures getting the best deals? How do the fees compare to the fees on products for institutional investors? Plus, If more buyers flood the market, does that push prices up and compress returns? Kristin breaks down for us how this whole ecosystem actually works, she discusses the biggest shift in private markets right now, and the pros and cons of newer structures that aim to make private assets feel more like “normal investing.” Finally, we go deep on what investors should actually ask before putting money into private equity and private credit. Kristin talks us through how fees can be misleading, when carry is taken, hurdle rates, gating/redemptions, and what “liquidity” really means when markets get stressed. This is an episode every investor should listen to before putting private capital into their portfolio.For a 14 day FREE Trial of Macabacus, click HERE Visit https://iconnections.io/ to learn more about iConnections!Shop our Self Paced Courses: Investment Banking & Private Equity Fundamentals HEREFixed Income Sales & Trading HERE Wealthfront.com/wss. This is a paid endorsement for Wealthfront. May not reflect others' experiences. Similar outcomes not guaranteed. Wealthfront Brokerage is not a bank. Rate subject to change. Promo terms apply. If eligible for the boosted rate of 4.15% offered in connection with this promo, the boosted rate is also subject to change if base rate decreases during the 3 month promo period.The Cash Account, which is not a deposit account, is offered by Wealthfront Brokerage LLC ("Wealthfront Brokerage"), Member FINRA/SIPC. Wealthfront Brokerage is not a bank. The Annual Percentage Yield ("APY") on cash deposits as of 11/7/25, is representative, requires no minimum, and may change at any time. The APY reflects the weighted average of deposit balances at participating Program Banks, which are not allocated equally. Wealthfront Brokerage sweeps cash balances to Program Banks, where they earn the variable APY. Sources HERE.

    BEHIND THE VELVET ROPE
    Bethenny Frankel Calls Denise Richards Dumb, PK Responds To Dorit & Andy Cohen Released Rinna's Private Texts

    BEHIND THE VELVET ROPE

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 18, 2026 36:24


    After a season long PK smear campaign by one Miss Dorit Kemsley, PK responds to Dorit with a clear message of his own. Bethenny Frankel talks more about the return of the RHONY OGs, reveals her own desires for a reality tv future and calls Denise Richards dumb - and that is only the beginning. Andy Cohen releases Lisa Rinna's private texts and Rinna claps back with a message of her own, talks her RHOBH exit and opens up about her complicated relationship with the Bravo fans. Last, but not least, Drew Sidora and Kelli Ferrell take each other to church, read each other for filth and leave no stone unturned in their recent on line blood bath which has everyone clamoring for the return of RHOA stat! @behindvelvetrope @davidyontef BONUS & AD FREE EPISODES Available at - www.patreon.com/behindthevelvetrope  BROUGHT TO YOU BY: CHEERS -CheersHealth.com (Get 20% Off A Way To Feel Better The Morning After A Few Drinks With Code Velvet ) COYUCHI - coyuchi.com/VELVETROPE (15% Off Your First Order Of The Most Comfortable Organic Sheets) MOOD - www.mood.com/velvet (20% Off With Code Velvet on Federally Legal THC Shipped Right To Your Door) ADVERTISING INQUIRIES - Please contact David@advertising-execs.com MERCH Available at - https://www.teepublic.com/stores/behind-the-velvet-rope?ref_id=13198 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    BHA Podcast & Blast with Hal Herring
    Public Land, Private Water: Utah's Stream Access Fight

    BHA Podcast & Blast with Hal Herring

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 18, 2026 97:51


    In this episode of the Backcountry Hunters & Anglers Podcast, host Hal Herring speaks with investigative journalist Andrew Becker about the complex and increasingly contentious issue of stream access in Utah. Centered around Becker's deep-dive reporting for The Drake, the conversation explores how a state that is roughly 75% public land can still have most of its fishable water flowing through private property. Becker traces the issue back to Western settlement, including the belief that water is a shared public resource. From the Equal Footing Doctrine and questions of navigability to Utah's modern walk-in access program, the episode unpacks how legal history, culture, water scarcity, and population growth collide. Unlike Montana's high-water mark standard, Utah's approach is fragmented and heavily shaped by private ownership of streambeds — a critical distinction in a state where most water runs through deeded land claimed under early homestead laws. The discussion also wrestles with harder questions: What does sustainable access look like in the second-driest state in the country? How do stocking programs, public funding, and private landownership intersect? And how do conservation ethics balance with expanding recreation pressure amid climate change and rapid development? Ultimately, the episode frames Utah as a microcosm of the broader Western struggle over public trust, private property, and the future of access — where law, history, culture, and conservation all meet at the water's edge.

    Work On Your Game: Discipline, Confidence & Mental Toughness For Sports, Business & Life | Mental Health & Mindset

    This one is for business builders who have real results but no documented process. In this episode, I explain why many successful people resist writing down what actually works, even for themselves. When everything lives in your head, the business only works as long as you are working. Documentation forces clarity, accountability, and transferability, and that changes the power dynamic from talent to system. If it's not documented, it's not a system, and without a system, your success can't scale or survive without you. Show Notes: [03:22]#1 Documentation removes the mystique of your personal talent. [08:13]#2 Documentation eliminates excuses.  [13:30]#3 Documentation forces you to admit what actually matters.  [17:34] Recap Next Steps: --- Power Presence is not taught. It is enforced. If you are operating in environments where hesitation costs money, authority, or leverage, the Power Presence Mastermind exists as a controlled setting for discipline, execution, and consequence-based decision-making. Details live here: http://PowerPresenceProtocol.com/Mastermind  This Masterclass is the public record of standards. Private enforcement happens elsewhere. All episodes and the complete archive: → WorkOnYourGamePodcast.com 

    Celebrate Kids Podcast with Dr. Kathy
    When Private Beliefs Turn Public: The Importance of Character and Courage Amid Crisis

    Celebrate Kids Podcast with Dr. Kathy

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 18, 2026 22:57


    In this sobering episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy address recent violent tragedies involving individuals struggling with gender identity and mental health. With compassion and clarity, they explore the link between identity confusion and misplaced hope, and how parents can respond with prayer and character formation in a confusing cultural moment.

    Fueling Deals
    Episode 391: How to Maximize Your Company's Sale Value with Greg Waller

    Fueling Deals

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 18, 2026 41:09


    From sandblasting pipe yards at 17 to advising on $10-200M M&A transactions, Dr. Greg Waller shares proven strategies for maximizing business exit value, managing buyer expectations, and why the best time to prepare for sale is 3 years before you're ready. In this episode of the DealQuest Podcast, host Corey Kupfer sits down with Dr. Greg Waller, who advises clients on complex business valuation and buy-side and sell-side M&A transactions. Greg is the managing partner of Cornerstone Valuation and a partner and managing director of Transact Capital, leading a 20-person team focused on the lower middle to middle market. Given his academic and entrepreneurial background, he jokingly refers to himself as the Blue Collar Scholar. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: In this episode, you'll discover why professional buyers and owner-operators require completely different M&A processes, how to set realistic expectations about the gap between business value and market price, and why starting exit preparation 3 years in advance dramatically impacts final sale outcomes. Greg explains how private equity-backed platforms are blurring the traditional lines between financial and strategic buyers, what makes labor-intensive businesses particularly attractive in the current market, and the cultural complexities that emerge in international transactions. You'll also learn why the most successful exits often begin as casual conversations years before any actual sale decision. GREG'S JOURNEY: Greg's path to M&A advisory started in Youngstown, Ohio at age 17. He walked into a pipe yard with a 4-inch piece of pipe, half sandblasted and coated, half rusty. He showed the crew his before-and-after demo and landed a contract to blast the entire yard over 18 months. That first deal led to years painting elevated structural steel, bridges, water tanks, and radio transmission towers. The industry changed when EPA regulations around lead-based paint removal came in. Working on a bridge one day, a coworker with cracked hands from years of painting looked at Greg and said, "Look at my hands, look at my face. What are you doing? You're a smart boy, why don't you go back to school?" That conversation took the rest of the season to sink in, but Greg eventually left the painting business and pursued his MBA at Ohio University. Faculty members encouraged him to pursue a PhD. His initial reaction was "Are you crazy? Why would I ever want to do a PhD?" But they convinced him, and he earned his PhD in finance at Purdue University. During his 20 years in academics at Ohio University and Virginia Commonwealth University (until May 2025), Greg maintained entrepreneurial ventures including valuation work as an expert witness, real estate development, buying his father's distribution company, and building a restaurant operating group. THE BLUE COLLAR SCHOLAR: Greg's unique combination of blue-collar operations experience and academic expertise gives him a perspective most M&A advisors lack. As he puts it, "I'm as comfortable talking to the janitor as I am to a board of directors, and just being able to put yourself in those shoes and having done it really gives you a different perspective." Having been under the hood of companies across virtually every industry through ownership and valuation work, he can get into the head of sellers in ways that matter when emotions run high and expectations need managing. KEY INSIGHTS: The M&A market divides into two buyer pools requiring vastly different processes. Professional buyers (private equity and strategics) respond to structured competitive auction processes with rigorous due diligence. Owner-operators typically engage through market-making platforms where price leads the conversation. Understanding which buyer type you're targeting shapes everything about your approach. Value and price represent fundamentally different concepts. Greg uses GameStop as his example: price went through the roof despite no fundamental change to the company, then crashed. Setting realistic expectations upfront with clients about valuation ranges prevents painful surprises when market realities emerge. The critical question: "If this thing ends up pricing at the lower end of the range, are we still good to go?" The consultative approach produces the best outcomes. Greg's most successful deals were "3 or 5 years in the making" where he identified value drivers early, helped clients clean up their operations, and positioned them properly before market entry. The best time to start thinking about hitting the market is 3 years ago. Private equity-backed platforms now dominate middle-market transactions, acting like strategics by bolting on competitors but bringing institutional capital discipline. This hybrid model has made the traditional financial versus strategic buyer distinction increasingly blurry. Labor-intensive businesses with skilled workforces are commanding premium multiples as immigration policies create labor challenges. Service providers to infrastructure industries and staffing companies are particularly hot. With massive private equity dry powder and 2024's weak M&A activity, the ingredients point toward a robust 2026 market. Perfect for business owners planning exits in the next 3-5 years, entrepreneurs considering M&A advisory relationships, and anyone interested in understanding how blue-collar operations experience combined with academic expertise creates differentiated advisory value. FOR MORE ON THIS EPISODE: https://www.coreykupfer.com/blog/gregwaller FOR MORE ON GREG WALLER:https://www.linkedin.com/in/h-gregory-waller-7193bb60/https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573615328301 FOR MORE ON COREY KUPFER https://www.linkedin.com/in/coreykupfer/ https://www.coreykupfer.com/ Corey Kupfer is an expert strategist, negotiator, and dealmaker. He has more than 35 years of professional deal-making and negotiating experience. Corey is a successful entrepreneur, attorney, consultant, author, and professional speaker. He is deeply passionate about deal-driven growth. He is also the creator and host of the DealQuest Podcast. Get deal-ready with the DealQuest Podcast with Corey Kupfer, where like-minded entrepreneurs and business leaders converge, share insights and challenges, and success stories. Equip yourself with the tools, resources, and support necessary to navigate the complex yet rewarding world of dealmaking. Dive into the world of deal-driven growth today! Episode Highlights with Timestamps [00:12:39] - Introduction: Greg Waller's credentials and Blue Collar Scholar background [00:16:32] - First deal at 17: Landing the pipe yard sandblasting contract [00:20:04] - The bridge painter who told him to go back to school and career transformation [00:29:05] - How blue-collar and academic backgrounds create unique M&A advisory perspective [00:30:48] - Two buyer pools: Professional buyers versus owner-operators and their different processes [00:35:57] - Value versus price conversation and the GameStop example [00:47:05] - "The best time to start thinking about hitting the market is 3 years ago" [00:48:21] - Why the line between financial and strategic buyers is increasingly blurry [00:50:15] - International deal complexities and cultural differences [00:54:19] - Market outlook for 2026: Labor challenges driving premium multiples [00:57:40] - What freedom means: Clean conscience and ability to chart your own destiny Guest Bio Dr. Greg Waller advises clients on complex business valuation and buy-side and sell-side M&A transactions. He is the managing partner of Cornerstone Valuation and a partner and managing director of Transact Capital, leading a 20-person team focused on the lower middle to middle market ($10-200M enterprise value range). His key industry verticals include human resource companies, staffing, industrials and infrastructure, healthcare, technology, and consumer products. Greg holds a PhD in finance from Purdue University and, until May 2025, was a tenured professor at Virginia Commonwealth University, where he taught courses and published research on corporate finance, mergers and acquisitions, and corporate governance. He previously taught at Ohio University. Greg is the son of a blue-collar entrepreneur and owned and operated an industrial painting company specializing in elevated structural steel infrastructure before pursuing his academic career. He has also been a partner in a real estate development firm and restaurant operating group, and now owns his family's industrial painting equipment distribution company. Given his academic and entrepreneurial background, he jokingly refers to himself as the Blue Collar Scholar. Host Bio Corey Kupfer is an expert strategist, negotiator, and dealmaker with more than 35 years of professional deal-making and negotiating experience. Corey is a successful entrepreneur, attorney, consultant, author, and professional speaker deeply passionate about deal-driven growth. He is the creator and host of the DealQuest Podcast. Show Description Do you want your business to grow faster? The DealQuest Podcast with Corey Kupfer reveals how successful entrepreneurs and business leaders use strategic deals to accelerate growth. From large mergers and acquisitions to capital raising, joint ventures, strategic alliances, real estate deals, and more, this show discusses the full spectrum of deal-driven growth strategies. Get the confidence to pursue deals that will help your company scale faster. Related Episodes Episode 350 - Tom Dillon: Understanding Business Valuation and Exit Planning Realities Episode 325 - Kelly Finnell: Using ESOPs in Ownership Succession Planning Episode 330 - Pete Mohr: Building Enterprise Value and Exit Readiness Episode 339 - Solocast 74: Equitizing Key Employees and Succession Planning Strategies Follow DealQuest Podcast: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coreykupfer/ Website: https://www.coreykupfer.com/ Follow Greg Waller:https://www.linkedin.com/in/h-gregory-waller-7193bb60/https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573615328301 Keywords/TagsM&A advisory, business valuation, exit planning, sell-side advisory, lower middle market, professional buyers, strategic buyers, private equity, business sale preparation, enterprise value, Blue Collar Scholar, deal structuring, owner-operators, business exit strategy, middle market M&A, exit readiness, business succession planning, international M&A, cross-border transactions, 2026 market outlook