In this episode of the Leadership Quotient Podcast, Rupal Patel, Operating Partner at Benford Capital, shares how her journey from CPA and Deloitte consultant to founder and CEO of a 100-employee advisory firm shaped her perspective on leadership in private equity. Rupal reveals how building a company from the ground up taught her the value of empathy, gap analysis, and culture-first hiring. She explains why understanding founder dynamics, supporting first-time CEOs, and putting the right people in the right seats—with resources to succeed—are essential to scaling portfolio companies and driving sustainable growth.

In this episode of the Leadership Quotient Podcast, Rob Levin, Managing Director and Founder at CIS Ventures, shares how execution is people-powered and why fit for stage matters as much as skills. From diligencing culture and aligning expectations to a 10-day cross-functional onboarding that crushed silos and improved retention, Rob reveals how to build PE-ready teams that can handle governance, speed, and tech adoption without losing the human connection.

In this episode of the Leadership Quotient Podcast, Dave Haslam, Head of Talent at ETONIEN, shares his perspective on the unique role of interim executives in private equity. From stepping into leadership gaps during times of transition to balancing tactical execution with cultural alignment, Dave highlights why specialists are increasingly in demand and how interim leaders create stability in the midst of change. Drawing on his career journey from finance to recruiting, he reveals how the right leader at the right moment can set the stage for lasting value creation.

In this episode of the Leadership Quotient Podcast, The Crucible CEO Lindsay Guzowski speaks with Doug Guess, Operating Partner at Resurgens Technology Partners, about the leadership principles that drive success in private equity. Doug shares his perspective on working with portfolio company CFOs and management teams, emphasizing why competency is only the starting point — and why trust, chemistry, and communication are what ultimately determine success. From navigating challenges to forging loyalty in tough moments, Doug offers practical insights on building intentional relationships that create long-term value.

In this episode of the Leadership Quotient Podcast, Joe O’Shields, VP of Finance – Portfolio Operations at Eagle Merchant Partners, shares how adaptability and trust-building shape leadership in private equity. From partnering with founder-led businesses to navigating tough hiring markets, Joe reveals why personality fit and hands-on collaboration are critical to driving growth and building resilient management teams.