The Distribution by Juniper Square

Brad Hargreaves and Paul Stanton join Brandon Sedloff on The Distribution to explore how media, capital markets, and innovative real estate models intersect. Brad reflects on his entrepreneurial journey from General Assembly to Common and now Thesis Driven, while Paul shares his evolution from institutional real estate to coworking and investment banking. Together, they highlight why education, storytelling, and consistency are essential in building enduring businesses and attracting capital. The discussion breaks down the Opco Propco model, dives into lessons learned from venture-backed real estate, and unpacks how media and brand-building are reshaping private markets. They discuss: How Brad’s path from trade schools to co-living shaped his view on real estate innovation Paul’s transition from traditional real estate to exploring Opco Propco structures and PropTech Why venture capital is often mismatched with real estate operating companies The role of media and education in capital raising and investor engagement Future trends in AI, retail capital raising, and investor access Links: Thesis Driven - https://www.thesisdriven.com/ Brad on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bharg/ Paul on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/pauljstanton/ Brandon on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bsedloff/ Juniper Square - https://www.junipersquare.com/ Topics: (00:00:00) - Intro (01:47) - Introduction to extraordinary guests: Brad and Paul (02:36) - Brad's journey: From antique furniture to Thesis Driven (06:01) - Paul's traditional real estate background and pivot (11:17) - The Opco Propco model explained (16:41) - Challenges and lessons from venture-backed real estate (21:09) - Building a media business: The origin of Thesis Driven (26:27) - The importance of storytelling in real estate (31:19) - Engaging audiences with real estate finance (33:34) - The power of consistency in building brands (34:50) - Leveraging social media for personal branding (37:17) - The role of media in private real estate (46:03) - Educational programs for real estate professionals (49:16) - Future trends in real estate and AI (50:56) - Effective fundraising strategies for investment managers (57:58) - Final thoughts and contact information

Bryan Thornton joins host Brandon Sedloff on The Distribution for a wide-ranging conversation about his 26-year career at PCCP and the evolution of real estate investment management. He shares how his early experiences shaped his passion for urban environments, reflects on PCCP’s growth from a California-focused startup to a national player, and explains why relationships remain central to both lending and equity investing. The discussion covers the shifts in capital markets, the rise of private credit, and how transparency, culture, and technology continue to redefine the industry. We discuss: PCCP’s consistent middle-market strategy across debt and equity The profound shift from bank dominance to private credit in real estate lending The role of transparency and relationship “alpha” in operator-lender partnerships How culture and curiosity fuel long-term career growth and organizational success The impact of technology and data on the future of investment management This episode offers valuable perspective for anyone navigating the challenges and opportunities in real estate today. Links: PCCP - https://pccpllc.com/ Bryan on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-thornton-09868357/ Brandon on LinkedIn - ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/bsedloff/⁠ Juniper Square - ⁠https://www.junipersquare.com/⁠ Topics: (00:00:00) - Intro (00:01:32) - Bryan’s career and background (00:11:44) - The scale of PCCP (00:14:33) - The state of the industry (00:19:28) - The relationship between lenders and borrowers (00:21:10) - PCCP’s equity business (00:27:52) - The evolution of the markets (00:31:42) - The relationship between PCCP and her capital partners (00:33:12) - Culture and leadership (00:36:07) - Technology impacts on physical assets (00:42:53) - NAREIM (00:47:00) - Lessons from staying with one firm for over 25 years (00:49:54) - Predictions for the next decade

In this episode of The Distribution, host Brandon Sedloff speaks with Trent Iliffe about his unconventional path from aspiring filmmaker to leading logistics and data center development across Asia. Trent reflects on his early career in industrial real estate, the founding of LŌ-GOI Group, and how he helped grow the platform into a major player in the region. He shares candid insights into navigating partnerships, raising institutional capital, and ultimately reshaping his focus toward logistics, data centers, and renewable energy. The conversation also explores the opportunities and challenges in emerging markets like India and Vietnam, and the importance of knowing what you don’t want to be as an entrepreneur. They discuss: Trent’s early career shift from film to industrial real estate The founding and evolution of Logos into a global logistics platform Launching LŌ-GOI Group with a focus on logistics, data centers, and renewable energy Market dynamics and growth opportunities in India and Vietnam Lessons in leadership, partnerships, and maintaining control as an entrepreneur Links: Trent on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/trent-iliffe-81219573/ LŌ-GOI Group - https://lo-goigroup.com/ Topics: (00:00:00) - Intro (00:02:24) - Trent's early career: From film to industrial real estate (00:03:11) - Building a career in industrial real estate (00:04:07) - Venturing into China: Setting up industrial business (00:05:15) - The birth of LŌ-GOI Group: Convincing investors in Australia (00:17:07) - Expanding horizons: From Australia to China (00:18:38) - Navigating partnerships and growth (00:23:27) - The evolution of LŌ-GOI Group: From logistics to data centers (00:31:11) - Renewable energy ventures (00:32:30) - Investment strategies and challenges (00:35:50) - Market insights: India and Vietnam (00:39:06) - Vietnam's manufacturing boom (00:44:58) - India's economic transformation (00:47:14) - Investor profiles and market dynamics (00:54:57) - Lessons from an entrepreneurial journey (00:58:13) - Conclusion and contact information

Recorded live in Sundance, Utah, this episode of The Distribution features host Brandon Sedloff in conversation with Jonathan Glick at the conclusion of the fourth annual REEL Conference. Together, they reflect on the event’s intimate and candid discussions with 45 founders and entrepreneurs in middle market real estate. The conversation covers the challenges of today’s market cycle, shifting capital structures, the role of technology and AI, and the importance of leadership and team culture in navigating uncertainty. They discuss: Why adaptability and creativity will determine success in the next real estate cycle Key capital formation trends, including the rise of co-investments and diversified structures How AI and technology are reshaping investment firms and talent strategies The importance of storytelling and differentiation in attracting capital Evolving approaches to compensation, retention, and building durable teams Links: Incubation Capital Jonathan on LinkedIn Brandon on LinkedIn - ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/bsedloff/⁠ Juniper Square - ⁠https://www.junipersquare.com/⁠ Topics: (00:00:00) - Intro (00:02:41) - REEL (00:04:51) - Key takeaways from the REEL conference (00:05:43) - Capital flows and market realities (00:07:43) - Challenges and opportunities in real estate (00:12:07) - The messy middle and capital structures (00:22:16) - AI and technology in private markets (00:33:06) - AI expectations and industry adaptation (00:34:06) - The role of technology in real estate (00:36:22) - Importance of relationships in real estate (00:45:08) - Compensation and talent retention (00:54:07) - Final thoughts and advice for founders

Mit Shah joins Brandon Sedloff to share the remarkable journey behind Noble Investment Group and its role in reshaping the hospitality investment landscape. From growing up in his family’s motel business to building a leading institutional platform, Mit reflects on the sacrifices, lessons, and opportunities that shaped his career. He also dives into the resilience of the hospitality sector through cycles of disruption and the new opportunities emerging at the intersection of travel, living, and branded accommodations. They discuss: Mit’s immigrant family story and how early work in his parents’ motel instilled the values of hard work and entrepreneurship The founding of Noble Investment Group and its growth through multiple economic downturns, from 9/11 to the Global Financial Crisis to COVID The culture of ownership and trust that has kept his leadership team together for decades The emergence of branded long-term accommodations and how they address today’s shifting travel and housing needs Why institutional investors should rethink assumptions about hospitality and recognize the sector’s differentiated opportunities This episode is a valuable listen for anyone interested in the future of hospitality, investing, and building resilient businesses. Links: Nobel Investment Group - https://www.nobleinvestment.com/ Mit on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitshahnoble/ Brandon on LinkedIn - ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/bsedloff/⁠ Juniper Square - ⁠https://www.junipersquare.com/⁠ Topics: (00:00:00) - Intro (00:02:11) - Mit’s background and career (00:06:15) - The birth of Noble Investment Group (00:18:21) - Navigating crises and building resilience (00:24:45) - Culture and leadership at Noble (00:30:03) - Reflecting on 9/11 (00:33:51) - Noble's current focus and achievements (00:35:38) - The future of hospitality with branded long-term accommodations (00:45:00) - Understanding the hospitality sector for institutional investors (00:51:58) - The resilience and future of travel (00:57:49) - Closing thoughts The views expressed in this podcast are those of Mit Shah and do not necessarily reflect the views of Noble Investment Group, LLC. This discussion is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be construed as investment advice, an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities or investment products. Any reference to specific strategies, asset classes, or markets is for illustrative purposes only and may not be suitable for all investors. Statements or information included in this presentation are made as of 09/02/205, are subject to change and neither Noble nor any of its affiliates will have an obligation to update or otherwise revise such statements or information to reflect information that becomes available or changes after such date. Certain statements may constitute forward-looking statements, which are based on current expectations and are subject to change and uncertainties. Past performance is not indicative of future results. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Listeners should consult their own advisors before making any investment decision(s).

Scott Aleali joins Brandon Sedloff on The Distribution to share his journey from early beginnings at Silicon Valley Bank to leading the private equity business at Citizens Private Bank. He reflects on the collapse of SVB and First Republic, the creation of Citizens Private Bank, and how his team is building a differentiated service model for private equity and venture capital clients. Scott also provides insight into industry trends, the rise of new liquidity solutions, and his own experience as a podcast host creating content for the private markets community. They discuss: Lessons learned from the failures of Silicon Valley Bank and First Republic How Citizens Private Bank was created and its focus on private equity and venture capital clients The importance of differentiation and returning capital in today’s private markets New liquidity solutions for investment professionals and why the middle market is underserved Scott’s journey into podcasting and the role of content creation in building authentic connections This episode offers valuable perspective for private markets professionals navigating an evolving financial landscape. Links: Scott on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottaleali/ Fund Fanatics Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/lu/podcast/fund-fanatics/id1810788445 Citizens Private Bank - https://www.citizensbank.com/private-banking/overview.aspx Brandon on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bsedloff/ Juniper Square - https://www.junipersquare.com/ Topics: (00:00:00) - Intro (00:02:04) - Scott’s career and background (00:06:33) - The SVB and FRB failures (00:13:13) - Advice for delivering harsh news (00:14:42) - The founding of Citizens Private Bank (00:17:19) - The landscape of CPB today (00:31:12) - Scott’s view of the market today (00:34:46) - What makes for a differentiated strategy/GP? (00:44:32) - Building the Fund Fanatics podcast and its impact on the business

In this episode of The Distribution, host Brandon Sedloff sits down with rental housing economist Jay Parsons for a wide-ranging discussion on the state of the rental housing market. Jay shares his path into the industry during the aftermath of the financial crisis, explains why he chose to specialize deeply in rental housing, and outlines the unique dynamics shaping apartments, single-family rentals, and build-to-rent communities today. Together, they explore current market challenges, long-term tailwinds, and the opportunities that lie ahead for investors and operators alike. They discuss:  * The origins of Jay’s career and his focus on rental housing economics * Key differences between ownership-driven housing commentary and true rental housing analysis * Glass half full versus half empty perspectives on today’s market, from high supply and rates to affordability and demographics * The convergence of multifamily, single-family rentals, and build-to-rent under one rental housing umbrella * Migration and demographic trends driving demand across the Sunbelt, mountain metros, and emerging tertiary markets * Investor strategies shifting from short-term flips to long-term value creation and operational excellence * How technology and AI are reshaping leasing, resident experience, and customer service in rental housing * The most important data points to track over the next cycle: supply and demand This episode offers clear insights for investors, operators, and anyone looking to understand the forces shaping the future of rental housing. Links: Jay on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-parsons-a7a6656/ Jay's website - https://jayparsons.com/ Brandon on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bsedloff/ Juniper Square - https://www.junipersquare.com/ Topics: (00:00:00) - Intro (00:02:02) - Jay’s background and career (00:12:50) - What are the good things happening in rental housing right now? (00:15:20) - Categories of rental housing that Jay covers (00:18:46) - What should investors be focused on if they want to increase their allocations in apartments over the next 3-10 years? (00:26:12) - Formats of new builds (00:29:16) - Migration trends (00:37:06) - Rental housing pipelines (00:40:20) - Capitalization trends (00:42:42) - Multifamily fundamentals over a cycle (00:45:04) - Drivers of the BTF and SFR market (00:48:06) - Creating alpha in a multifamily portfolio (00:51:41) - What to look for in a great operator (00:53:06) - Technology and AI application trends (00:56:19) - What is one data point everyone should be paying attention to?

Cia Buckley Marakovits joins Brandon Sedloff on The Distribution to walk through her journey to President and Chief Investment Officer of Dune Real Estate Partners. She reflects on formative experiences at Bankers Trust, JER, and ultimately Dune, weaving together lessons in capital markets, risk management, investor relations, and leadership. Cia discusses what it means to lead in the “private of private” asset classes, how she defines high-yield investing, and the opportunities created by capital inefficiencies. She also shares candid perspectives on loneliness in leadership, the importance of trusted peers, and the evolving role of women in real estate. They discuss: Why her career in real estate began with a phone call and a box of belongings Lessons from working alongside Dick Gunthel, Joe Robert, and Dan Neidich How high-yield investing differs from “opportunistic” or “value add” real estate Why today’s market cycle is defined by an elongated de-leveraging period The power of relationships and diversity in driving investment performance A valuable episode for investors and operators interested in capital markets strategy, leadership, and navigating private real estate. Links: Dune Real Estate Partners - https://dunerealestate.com/ Cia on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cia-buckley-marakovits-96722111/ Brandon on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bsedloff/ Juniper Square - https://www.junipersquare.com/ Topics: (00:00:00) - Intro (00:01:58) - Cia’s background and career (00:21:39) - Transitioning to Dune (00:28:20) - The correlation of loneliness and success (00:32:42) - The state of Dune today (00:37:33) - High-yield real estate (00:40:50) - When opportunistic deals make sense (00:45:05) - Private Real Estate in a world that pushes transparency (00:48:57) - The 2025 cycle (00:51:48) - The role of women in Real Estate

Chris Merrill, Co-Founder and CEO of Harrison Street, joins Brandon Sedloff to explore a career defined by risk-taking, innovation, and a steadfast belief in building differentiated real estate strategies. The conversation traces Chris’s early career in real estate through his formative years at Heitman, where he became one of the first Western investors to focus exclusively on Central Europe. That experience would inform the thesis behind Harrison Street—an investment firm centered on demographic-driven, need-based asset classes like student housing, medical offices, and self-storage. Chris shares how Harrison Street emerged from a 50-50 partnership with Motorola’s former CEO Chris Galvin, and how its success has hinged on developing deep operator relationships, a repeatable process for innovation, and a long-term perspective on risk and value creation. They discuss: Why building a “pure play” Central European fund shaped his thinking on innovation and differentiation The early resistance to student housing, senior living, and self-storage as institutional asset classes How Harrison Street built an edge through proprietary scorecards and diversified operator relationships Why vertical integration was never the right strategy for Harrison Street’s alternative real estate focus How infrastructure and on-campus partnerships are fueling the next phase of growth This episode is a masterclass in how to spot arbitrage opportunities and scale a business by staying contrarian. Links: Chris on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-merrill-006b243/ Harrison Street - https://harrisonst.com/ Brandon on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bsedloff/ Juniper Square - https://www.junipersquare.com/ Topics: (00:00:00) - Intro (00:01:39) - Chris’ background and career (00:12:22) - Capital raising in the mid-90s (00:15:25) - Founding Harrison Street (00:22:11) - What Harrison Street looks like today (00:23:24) - The evolution of Alternatives within Private Real Estate (00:25:26) - Investing strategies (00:32:42) - Milestones from the last 2 decades (00:34:46) - Failures (00:37:35) - What best-in-class operating partners look like (00:42:43) - Vertically integrated vs. allocator models (00:44:30) - Pivoting into infrastructure (00:48:19) - Making an ownership shift (00:52:16) - The intersection of innovation and Real Estate

In this episode of The Distribution, host Brandon Sedloff sits down with Len O’Donnell, CEO of Affinius Capital, for a wide-ranging conversation on the evolution of one of real estate’s most strategically positioned investment platforms. Len reflects on his early exposure to development, his unconventional career path, and the lessons learned from leading through multiple business cycles. He shares how he helped transform USAA Real Estate into a scaled investment manager, navigated a management-led buyout in the midst of a global pandemic, and merged multiple platforms into the firm now known as Affinius Capital. The discussion also explores the firm’s investment pillars—credit, housing, and the intersection of real estate and technology—and why data centers represent the most strategically vital asset class in today’s economy. They discuss: The early influence of development culture and why studying history shaped Len’s leadership philosophy How Len transitioned from industrial chemical sales to building one of the largest platforms in U.S. real estate The vision and execution behind Affinius’ shift from wholly owned assets to co-investment-led growth Lessons from the merger of USAA Real Estate and Square Mile, and the importance of patience in integration Why power, permitting, and strategic partnerships define the future of the data center sector This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking long-term perspective and operational wisdom in institutional real estate investing. Links: Affinius Capital - https://affiniuscapital.com/ Len on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/len-odonnell-92a96815/ Brandon on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bsedloff/ Juniper Square - https://www.junipersquare.com/ Topics: (00:00:00) - Intro (00:01:34) - Len's career and background (00:03:47) - Transition to real estate development (00:06:24) - Building a career in Washington DC (00:17:28) - The evolution of USAA Realty (00:22:53) - Merging with Square Mile (00:27:16) - Lessons from mergers and acquisitions (00:30:57) - Cultural shifts in large organizations (00:32:12) - Introducing Affinius (00:38:27) - Strategic business evolutions (00:42:39) - Amazon: A case study in strategic partnership (00:47:15) - The future of data centers and power constraints (00:53:51) - Conclusion and final thoughts

In this episode of The Distribution, host Brandon Sedloff sits down with Brendan Wallace, CEO & CIO of Fifth Wall, to explore the firm’s founding thesis, its investment philosophy, and the evolving intersection of real estate and technology. Brendan shares his unique career path—from real estate private equity at Blackstone to launching a successful tech startup sold to Workday—offering rare insight into how his dual experience in tech and real estate shaped the creation of Fifth Wall. He outlines how the firm’s strategic LP model allows them to drive technology adoption within the real estate sector, and discusses the broader opportunity that comes from modernizing a traditionally analog industry. The conversation also touches on the firm’s investing strategy, views on AI and data, and why Brendan believes the next wave of leading real estate platforms will be launched in the coming years. They discuss: * Why Fifth Wall’s LP base of real estate incumbents gives it a strategic advantage in venture investing * How Brendan’s early tech exit and institutional finance background informed his venture model * The challenges of real estate’s slow tech adoption, and which firms are actually driving change * Brendan’s view on the overhyped promise of proprietary data in the AI era * Why now may be the best time in a generation to launch a new real estate investment platform A valuable conversation for anyone exploring the future of real estate, venture capital, or building at the intersection of both. Links: Fifth Wall - https://www.fifthwall.com/ Brendan on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendanfitzgeraldwallace/ Brandon on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bsedloff/ Juniper Square - https://www.junipersquare.com/ Topics: (00:00:00) - Intro (00:01:11) - Brendan's background and career (00:18:29) - The birth of Fifth Wall (00:24:18) - The real estate tech revolution (00:28:54) - Big wins and real estate technology adoption (00:31:09) - Challenges and mistakes in real estate tech adoption (00:33:16) - Incentives and barriers to technology adoption (00:38:09) - The future of real estate and technology (00:45:10) - Fifth Wall's investment strategy and market trends (00:47:58) - Advice for aspiring real estate tech entrepreneurs (00:57:20) - Conclusion and contact information

In this episode of The Distribution, host Brandon Sedloff sits down with Patrick McBride, co-founder and co-CEO of Coastal Ridge, to explore the firm’s evolution from a small entrepreneurial venture to a vertically integrated investment platform managing $5 billion in gross AUM. McBride walks through the pivotal moments that shaped Coastal Ridge’s growth, including early partnerships with family offices, scaling with institutional joint ventures, and the recent transition to discretionary fund management. The conversation covers the strategic advantages of student housing, why vertical integration has been core to their model, and how Coastal Ridge's Midwest roots influence its culture and execution. They discuss: How Coastal Ridge began as a partnership between college friends and scaled through $400M in backing from family offices The firm's three-phase capital evolution: private capital, institutional JVs, and discretionary funds Why student housing complements multifamily and what’s driving double-digit rent growth in the sector What makes a great student housing investment and how Coastal Ridge adds value to 10–20-year-old properties How vertical integration enhances performance across living strategies and creates competitive advantages A valuable listen for investors, operators, and entrepreneurs seeking to understand how durable real estate businesses are built over time. Links: Coastal Ridge - https://www.coastalridge.com/ Patrick on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-r-mcbride/ Brandon on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bsedloff/ Juniper Square - https://www.junipersquare.com/ Topics: (00:00:00) - Intro (00:01:20) - Patrick McBride's career and background (00:02:01) - The origin story of Coastal Ridge (00:03:51) - Early challenges and key partnerships (00:06:35) - Evolution to institutional capital (00:13:02) - Current strategies and market insights (00:14:05) - Student housing sector deep dive (00:24:05) - Future vision and company culture (00:28:33) - Leadership and entrepreneurial advice (00:31:31) - Conclusion and closing remarks

In this episode of The Distribution, Brandon Sedloff sits down with Chris Brimsek, Managing Partner of Cab Advisory, for a deep dive into how investment managers can build enduring businesses in an increasingly complex private markets environment. Drawing on experience from advising GPs across asset classes and stages, Chris outlines the major strategic and operational challenges facing fund managers—from firm structure and team composition to incentive design and succession planning. The conversation explores why many firms stall out at the mid-market level and what it truly takes to scale. Chris shares a four-part framework he uses with clients to create “operational alpha,” emphasizing the importance of vision, actively managed teams, properly structured incentives, and founder delegation. Whether discussing fundless sponsors, the future of sports investing, or the commercialization of GP stakes, Chris offers a pragmatic and unvarnished view of where the industry is headed. They discuss: How the “mutual fund phase” of private markets is driving the need for new content and strategies The rise of fundless sponsors and how they’re shaping deal flow, team structures, and fundraising models Why founders must choose between staying boutique or scaling—and how that choice affects team dynamics and enterprise value The case for sports franchises as analogs to deal teams and what private equity can learn from talent management in professional leagues Why delegation, succession planning, and intentional incentive design are key to sustainable firm growth This is a must-listen for investment managers navigating scale, succession, or strategic reinvention in today’s private markets. Links: Chris on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisbrimsek/ CAB Advisory LLC - https://www.cabadvisoryllc.com/ Brandon on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bsedloff/ Juniper Square - https://www.junipersquare.com/ Topics: (00:00:00) - Intro (00:02:48) - State of private markets (00:05:31) - Emerging managers and investment dynamics (00:15:11) - Operational alpha and team management (00:23:36) - Building durable investment management businesses (00:26:07) - The startup mindset in business (00:27:02) - Incentives and performance (00:27:52) - Talent development and team composition (00:28:54) - Recruitment and team dynamics (00:34:03) - Delegation and leadership challenges (00:41:15) - Strategic capital and growth (00:45:35) - The future of private markets (00:51:56) - Closing thoughts and podcast information

In this episode of The Distribution, host Brandon Sedloff sits down with Franz Colloredo-Mansfeld, CEO and Chairman of Cabot Properties, for a sweeping conversation on the evolution of the logistics real estate sector. Franz shares his unconventional path into the industry, beginning with a background in history and investment banking, and reflects on the experiences that shaped his leadership at Cabot.  From Cabot’s early days as a small advisory firm to its current position managing $12 billion in assets across 13 offices worldwide, Franz unpacks the strategic decisions, market cycles, and global expansion efforts that defined the company’s growth. He also provides an in-depth look at the structural dynamics of logistics investing, public vs. private ownership models, and why Cabot remains committed to value creation through specialization. They discuss: - How Franz’s early exposure to real estate and global finance shaped his leadership style - Why Cabot went public in the late 1990s and what they learned from it - The tailwinds driving institutional investment into logistics real estate - How Cabot has expanded internationally and adapted to global market nuances - Why logistics is increasingly seen as a core real estate allocation with enduring alpha potential This is a valuable episode for investors, operators, and professionals curious about logistics real estate, private equity, and global platform building. Clarification: The number of Cabot offices at the time of publication was 13. Links: Cabot Website: https://www.cabotprop.com/ Franz’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/franz-colloredo-mansfeld-71428622a/ Brandon on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bsedloff/ Juniper Square - https://www.junipersquare.com/ Topics: (00:00:00) - Intro (00:01:38) - Franz’s background and career (00:22:00) - Founding Cabot (00:24:38) - What were investors missing that gave you confidence in finding Alpha in your sector? (00:29:05) - The global scale of Cabot in 2025 (00:32:40) - Internationalization  (00:38:30) - The role of logistics in a diversified portfolio (00:44:24) - Innovation and obsolescence   (00:46:40) - The future of Cabot (00:50:16) - ULI

In this special edition of The Distribution, host Brandon Sedloff sits down with Chris Tinsley and Rory Mabin of NASDAQ’s fund secondaries business, recorded live from NASDAQ’s Times Square studio.  The conversation unpacks the evolution of the fund secondaries market, highlighting how NASDAQ is bringing technology, transparency, and regulatory clarity to a historically opaque and manual process. Chris and Rory share how their unique professional journeys—from institutional investing to pioneering fintech—positioned them to rethink secondary liquidity in private markets.  They dive deep into the complexities of LP transactions, the origins of NASDAQ’s platform, and the structural and regulatory innovations making scaled, GP-sponsored liquidity a reality today. They discuss: * How NASDAQ’s acquisition of SecondMarket evolved into a fund secondaries platform * Why secondary LP transactions are more like M\&A deals than stock trades * The value of “GP-sponsored” liquidity programs and how they differ from GP-led deals * How NASDAQ’s Qualified Matching Service (QMS) helps GPs avoid tax complications while scaling liquidity * Why scalable technology and a growing buyer base—including family offices and institutional LPs—are reshaping the future of private market secondaries This episode is essential listening for GPs navigating LP liquidity needs or building next-gen fund structures in private markets. Links: Nasdaq Fund Secondaries - https://www.nasdaq.com/solutions/fund-secondaries Chris Tinsley on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christoffertinsley/ Rory Mabin on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rory-mabin-966a1333/ Brandon on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bsedloff/ Juniper Square - https://www.junipersquare.com/ Topics: (00:00:00) - Intro (00:01:20) - Introducing Chris Tinsley and Rory Mabin (00:01:45) - NASDAQ's role in private market secondaries (00:02:09) - Chris Tinsley's journey to NASDAQ (00:03:55) - Rory Mabin's background in fund secondaries (00:05:04) - Understanding NASDAQ beyond the exchange (00:06:40) - The origin of NASDAQ's fund secondaries business (00:10:28) - Challenges in fund secondaries transactions (00:17:40) - The role of technology in streamlining processes (00:23:49) - Adapting to investor needs in private markets (00:27:26) - Enhanced liquidity options for limited partnerships (00:31:02) - Understanding Qualified Matching Service (QMS) (00:33:28) - Challenges and solutions in providing liquidity (00:36:52) - The role of technology in liquidity solutions (00:38:03) - Practical implementation of embedded liquidity (00:46:37) - The future of secondary markets and AI integration (00:50:02) - Conclusion and final thoughts

In this episode of The Distribution, host Brandon Sedloff sits down with Jason Ment, President and Co-Chief Operating Officer of StepStone Group, to explore the scale and complexity of operational leadership inside one of the world's most dynamic private markets investment platforms. Jason shares how he transitioned from General Counsel into firmwide operations, and how StepStone has grown from 35 people to more than 1,100 globally while maintaining a culture of accountability, trust, and execution. They unpack what operational alpha means at the portfolio level, how StepStone approaches customized client solutions, and why transparency and leadership development are central to building a durable investment business. They also discuss: * Managing 700+ non-investment professionals across 27 global offices * Creating scalable communication systems and decision-making infrastructure * How acquisitions, integration, and cultural alignment shaped StepStone’s evolution * The role of custom software, AI, and data strategy in delivering client outcomes * Adapting to new product structures for private wealth, defined contribution, and insurance * How StepStone empowers emerging leaders through sponsorship and strategic projects * The firm’s view on operational and service alpha as core to long-term client retention This episode is a comprehensive look at what it takes to scale operations in private markets while staying mission-driven—and how great leadership begins with curiosity, trust, and clarity. Links: StepStone Group - https://www.stepstonegroup.com/ Jason on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-ment-5068b213/ Brandon on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bsedloff/ Juniper Square - https://www.junipersquare.com/ Topics: (00:00:00) - Intro (00:02:36) - Jason’s background and career (00:11:07) - Advice for folks wanting to do “more” within their role at work (00:12:48) - The evolution of StepStone Group (00:18:32) - How do you think about your role in the context of Operational Alpha? (00:20:59) - Scaling information access (00:24:46) - Operational Alpha in driving StepStone forward (00:26:42) - Flexibility and efficiency at scale (00:29:13) - What are you building toward over the next 5 years? (00:30:55) - Building vs. buying software tools (00:32:55) - What’s something you’ve gotten wrong in your technology roadmap? (00:34:04) - How do you think about AI? (00:40:44) - The permission to innovate and the permission to fail (00:43:41) - How are you embracing the structural changes in the market? (00:50:44) - How do you think about the measurements of success in your organization? (00:52:28) - Delivering Service Alpha (00:56:15) - Leadership philosophies

In this episode of The Distribution, host Brandon Sedloff sits down with Ted Gooden, founder of Växa Partners and a seasoned advisor in private markets, to explore the state of strategic consolidation across investment management. With more than two decades of experience and over 100 transactions under his belt, Ted shares the playbook behind how private equity, credit, and real estate platforms have scaled—and what it takes for firms to compete today. They unpack the forces behind the rise of mega-managers, the consolidation play that shaped today's private markets landscape, and why mid-sized firms are now exploring mergers, partnerships, and non-control capital as tools for growth and survival. They also discuss: * The evolution from boutique managers to full-service private markets platforms * How public listings, insurance capital, and platform M\&A changed the industry * What makes a manager “investable” and how to build enterprise value * Why strategic alignment, fund structure, and internal culture matter more than ever * The growing role of private wealth distribution and how RIAs are reshaping access * Tactical advice for GPs considering stake sales, mergers, or succession plans * How Vaxa Partners is helping clients navigate critical inflection points This episode is a masterclass in private markets strategy from one of the most trusted voices in the space—offering insight not just on where the industry has been, but where it’s going. Links: Växa Partners - https://vaxa.partners/ Ted on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tedgooden/ Brandon on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bsedloff/ Juniper Square - https://www.junipersquare.com/ Topics: (00:00:00) - Intro (00:02:20) - Ted’s background and career (00:04:04)  - Vaxa Partners (00:10:14) - What are you seeing in private markets in today’s environment? (00:18:58) - Consolidation in the industry (00:29:14) - How firms can position themselves for a successful merger (00:44:12) - Distribution as a strategic lever for merging firms (00:49:22) - How does Private Wealth fit into the future of private markets

In this episode of The Distribution, host Brandon Sedloff sits down with Jay Maher, Global Chief Operating Officer at H.I.G. Capital, to explore what it takes to build scalable operational infrastructure inside one of the world’s leading middle-market private equity firms. With a career spanning over 30 years in fund administration, technology, and operational leadership, Jay brings a unique perspective on institutional growth, data strategy, and the evolving role of the COO. They discuss Jay’s journey from cutting NAVs on paper at Merrill Lynch to co-founding and selling multiple fund services businesses, and how that experience informs his approach to streamlining systems, breaking down silos, and preparing H.I.G. for its next phase of growth. They also cover: The complexities of building a centralized data warehouse across asset classes How H.I.G. balances entrepreneurial culture with institutional standards The implementation of Workday HCM and firm-wide performance systems Operational lessons from scaling multiple fund administration teams How to design effective vendor partnerships with aligned incentives The strategic role of the COO in talent, technology, and investor service delivery This episode is a behind-the-scenes look at operational alpha in action, offering a rare window into how scaled private equity firms are building durable foundations for long-term growth. Links: Jay on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-maher-90b71616/ H.I.G. Capital - https://hig.com/ Brandon on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bsedloff/ Juniper Square - https://www.junipersquare.com/ Topics: (00:00:00) - Intro (00:02:07) - Jay’s career and background (00:18:18) - The state of operational alpha for private markets (00:23:10- Advice for folks trying to wrap their heads around maintaining clean data (00:27:00) - How does HIG think about the role of operations and data in the firm's strategic vision? (00:29:59) - Jay’s role as COO (00:38:14) - Leadership philosophies (00:40:55) - Outsourcing approaches (00:44:08) - Developing successful partnerships (00:46:02) - What’s something that surprised you in your role as COO? (00:48:10) - How do you get people to change? (00:52:52) - What do you see on the horizon over the next 3-5 years?

In this episode of The Distribution, host Brandon Sedloff sits down with Charles Hudson, Managing Partner and Founder at Precursor Ventures, to explore the challenges and opportunities of pre-seed investing. Charles shares how his early career at In-Q-Tel and Uncork Capital shaped his thesis for launching Precursor—a fund intentionally designed to write small checks to first-time founders before there’s traction, product, or even a network. They discuss the philosophy behind backing “strangers with data,” how to identify founders with the resilience and creativity to thrive at the zero-to-one stage, and what’s often misunderstood about investing in companies before traditional signals exist. Charles also reflects on why staying small by design is key to Precursor’s success and how firm culture, founder psychology, and capital strategy all intertwine in early-stage venture. They also cover: * How product velocity is a leading indicator of startup success * The shift from institutional seed to pre-seed and why timing matters * Red flags and green flags when backing solo vs. co-founding teams * Why domain expertise isn’t a requirement—and when it actually matters * Precursor’s use of founder assessments and frameworks for diligence * Thoughts on AI, market timing, and where the next generation of breakout companies will emerge This episode is a must-listen for investors, founders, and allocators who want a firsthand look at how conviction, curiosity, and consistency define the earliest stages of venture capital. Links: Charles on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chudson/ Precursor Ventures - https://precursorvc.com/ Brandon on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bsedloff/ Juniper Square - https://www.junipersquare.com/ Topics: (00:00:00) - Intro (00:01:51)  - Charles’ background and career (00:13:52) - Advice to young professionals (00:17:06) - More on Charles’ career  (00:30:45) - Launching Precursor (00:34:39) - The current state of Precursor and their mindset toward investing (00:38:33) - What to look for in founders (00:42:38) - How do you narrow your funnel of founders you’re interested in investing with? (00:54:40) - What’s your view on AI as an investable industry?

In this episode of The Distribution, host Brandon Sedloff speaks with Sarah Schwarzschild, COO of Mavik Capital, to explore what operational alpha looks like inside a high-performing real estate investment firm. With experience spanning investment banking, secondaries, and platform leadership, Sarah brings a unique lens to how strategy, culture, and execution intersect in private markets. They dive into how Mavik has structured itself for speed, collaboration, and long-term performance—from flat organizational design to real-time data feedback loops. Sarah shares her approach to building systems that reduce friction, unlock better decision-making, and ensure every team member—from assistants to senior investors—has direct alignment through carried interest. They also discuss: - How Mavik balances flexibility with discipline in its investment process - The firm’s unique capital strategy, including accordion-style fund sizing - Why Sarah believes in weekly feedback, habit tracking, and prioritization as leadership tools - Building an internal culture of experimentation, iteration, and psychological safety - Why operational excellence is a source of alpha, not just back-office hygiene - How technology, automation, and data scraping will define the next generation of investment managers This episode is a masterclass in applying startup principles inside a real estate investment platform—ideal for any leader thinking about how to build with intention. Links: Mavik Capital - https://www.mavikcapital.com/ Sarah on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-schwarzschild-5426483/ Brandon on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bsedloff/ Juniper Square - https://www.junipersquare.com/ Book recommendations: The Satanic Verses by Salman Rushdie - https://a.co/d/2eD81SB Atomic Habits by James Clear - https://a.co/d/9eU79Op The Mountain in the Sea by Ray Nayler - https://a.co/d/iglqwPt Topics: (00:00:00) - Intro (00:02:01) - Sarah’s background and career (00:08:44) - What are you focused on from an investment perspective? (00:10:51) - What is your span of control as COO? (00:15:59) - How do you compare and contrast operationally Mavik vs. the industry standard? (00:18:46) - Flexibility within a large organization (00:20:35) - How do you effectively drive change? (00:22:21) - Leadership philosophies (00:29:52) - Achieving long-term outperformance (00:35:18) - What are your priorities today? (00:41:29) - What is the role of an operational leader in an investment committee? (00:44:18) - Opportunities in the market (00:47:02) - Sarah’s Jordan 1 shoe (00:48:36) - Book suggestions