The Dealmakers Desk

The Dealmakers Desk is where today’s private equity leaders share their journeys, philosophies, and strategies for building the next generation of firms.

Produced by CAN Media Group, this showcase series highlights members of The Capital Alliance Network and broader ecosystem — GPs, investors, and entrepreneurs who are shaping the future of capital.

Each episode brings listeners inside the minds of dealmakers navigating the complexities of fundraising, acquisitions, and growth — without the noise of returns or solicitation. Instead, the focus is on candid storytelling, leadership lessons, and the frameworks that define great investors.

Whether you’re an fund manager, an entrepreneur raising capital, or a professional curious about the private equity ecosystem, The Dealmakers Desk gives you an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at how emerging leaders are writing their playbooks.

Listen on:

  • Podbean App
  • Spotify
  • Amazon Music

Episodes

Thursday Sep 26, 2024

In this episode. Jay Holmes interviews Sam Kelly, managing partner at Salomon Gideon Capital. Sam shares his inspirational journey from Virginia State University through the ranks at Merrill Lynch into investment banking. He discusses his strategic insights into innovative investment structures, family offices, and providing high-quality deals to retail investors. Sam delves into his personal background, pivotal books that shaped him, and the significance of adding value and relationship building in business development. 
 
Connect with us:
➡️ Jay Holmes on Linkedin
➡️ Sam Kelly on Linkedin
 
➡️ Sign up here: The Capital Alliance Network
➡️ The Capital Alliance Network on Linkedin 

Wednesday Sep 04, 2024

"If you're doing good work, you should be able to do that work in the way that you want to."
 
In this episode, Jay Holmes welcomes Brian Shields, a prolific M&A advisor and investor with a remarkable journey from high finance to operational leadership. Brian shares his experiences, insights, and strategies that have shaped his extraordinary career. His engaging discussion covers the intricacies of private equity, the importance of hands-on operations, and navigating the challenges faced by business owners.
 
Connect with us:
➡️ Jay Holmes on Linkedin
➡️ Brian Shields on Linkedin
 
➡️ Sign up here: The Capital Alliance Network
➡️ The Capital Alliance Network on Linkedin 

Wednesday Aug 28, 2024

"Once you get that first deal under your belt, you become a proven commodity, a proven player in the market, and those subsequent deals start coming a little more easily."
 
In this episode, Jay Holmes is joined by Clive Davis, illustrating his early exposure to real estate through his parents' rental property in Queens, New York. Clive explains the transition from handling small residential units to managing large-scale multifamily properties. With his legal expertise and corporate experience, Clive discusses how he started Park Royal Capital and grew it to a firm capable of handling multimillion-dollar real estate investments.
 
Connect with us:
➡️ Jay Holmes on Linkedin
➡️ Clive Davis on Linkedin
 
➡️ Sign up here: The Capital Alliance Network
➡️ The Capital Alliance Network on Linkedin 

Wednesday Aug 21, 2024

"One decision changed several decisions, changed my life."
In this episode, Jay Holmes welcomes Markayle D'Angelo to dive into the world of private equity real estate and real estate development. Markel shares his journey from being an English teacher to becoming a successful real estate developer, emphasizing the importance of education and mentorship along the way. The conversation highlights Markayle's strategic acquisition of land parcels and his innovative approach to real estate development.
 
Connect with us:
➡️ Jay Holmes on Linkedin
➡️ Markayle D'Angelo on Linkedin
 
 
➡️ Sign up here: The Capital Alliance Network
➡️ The Capital Alliance Network on Linkedin 

Wednesday Aug 14, 2024

"Collaboration is the way to go. Energy creates energy, and it's important to push toward success."
 
In this episode, Jay Holmes is joined by Kamar Jones to share his journey from Philly roots to leadership roles in mining management consulting. He discusses his experiences in optimizing operations, driving strategic initiatives, and fostering high-performing cultures. Through engaging conversations, Kamar delves into the intersection of the mining consulting industry with the realm of private equity, offering insights and strategies for success.
 
Connect with us:
➡️ Jay Holmes on Linkedin
➡️ Kamar Jones on Linkedin
 
 
➡️ Sign up here: The Capital Alliance Network
➡️ The Capital Alliance Network on Linkedin 

Wednesday Aug 07, 2024

"Venture is an industry where you need diverse perspectives and different perspectives as you look at investments."
 
In this episode, Jay Holmes is joined by Justin Williams to share his journey from a small town in Georgia to becoming a principal at Seae Ventures. He highlights his deep interest in venture capital to bridge the economic gap for underrepresented individuals. Justin focuses on personalized health and behavioral health sectors at Seae   Ventures, aiming to support women and BIPOC founders in the early-stage healthcare industry.
 
Connect with us:
➡️ Jay Holmes on Linkedin
➡️ Justin Williams on Linkedin
 
 
➡️ Sign up here: The Capital Alliance Network
➡️ The Capital Alliance Network on Linkedin 

Wednesday Jul 31, 2024

"Act as though you're open to learning and being curious, and you'll be amazed at the results."
 
In this episode, Jay Holmes is joined by Jamaar Spencer to talk about his journey from the music industry to banking and now venturing into private equity. Jamaar credits his mother as a significant influence in his pursuit of financial knowledge and success. Jamaar discusses his experiences at Legacy Texas, PNC Bank, and New York Life, emphasizing the importance of building relationships and seizing opportunities. Throughout the episode, they delve into the realm of private equity, highlighting strategies for growth and risk mitigation.
 
Connect with us:
➡️ Jay Holmes on Linkedin
➡️ Jamaar Spencer on Linkedin
 
 
➡️ Sign up here: The Capital Alliance Network
➡️ The Capital Alliance Network on Linkedin 

Thursday Jul 25, 2024

"Human connections are key; people do business with who they know, like, and trust."
 
In this episode, Jay Holmes welcomes Jewel Love, an accomplished therapist and founder of Black Executive Men. They explore the importance of high expectations, fostering deep friendships, and the power of social capital in private equity. Jewel emphasizes the value of collaboration, finding one's authentic voice, and building a thriving community in the PE and VC world.
 
 
Connect with us:
➡️ Jay Holmes on Linkedin
➡️ Jewel Love on Linkedin
 
 
➡️ Sign up here: Black Executive Men Community
➡️ Black Executive Men Capital on Linkedin 

Friday Jul 12, 2024

"The private equity landscape is experiencing shifts with increased dry powder, prompting the need for creative solutions and alternative structures in deal-making."
 
In this episode, Jay Holmes interviews Cusaj Thomas, a seasoned corporate attorney with a focus on private equity and mergers and acquisitions. Cusaj shares insights from his journey, academic achievements, mentorship experiences, and future goals. Their discussion delves into the evolving trends in private equity, challenges faced in the industry, and the importance of mentorship and giving back.
 
Connect with us:
➡️ Cusaj Thomas on Linkedin
➡️ Jay Holmes on Linkedin
 
➡️ Sign up here: The Capital Alliance Network 
➡️ The Capital Alliance Network on Linkedin 

The Kickoff!

Wednesday Jul 10, 2024

Wednesday Jul 10, 2024

In this inaugural episode of the The Dealmakers Desk podcast, the host, Jay Holmes, sets the stage for an empowering series that aims to uplift and enlighten black professionals in the private equity and venture capital space. Highlighting the importance of representation, positive reinforcement, and access to capital for underrepresented groups. 
➡️ The Capital Alliance Network on Linkedin 

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