Private Equity Professionals to Know 2025

I’m P. Blake Renda—entrepreneur, investor, and co-CEO of Veedor Holdings LLC based in Naples, FL, with a satellite office in Santa Monica, CA. Veedor Holdings LLC, in addition to making strategic investments, owns and operates Dragon Horse Agency, Dragon Horse Publishing, and Moxie Creed. My professional journey began while attending the University of Southern Calfornia as an intern at NBC Studios, which led to a full-time position upon graduating. I then pivoted to law and then finance which ultimately lead me to Wall Street in 1996, where I was part of small team in Palo Alto, CA managing over $20 billion in technology-sector assets at J. & W. Seligman & Co. and in 2000 I earned recognition as one of Institutional Investor Magazine’s “Best of the Buy Side.” In 2006, I joined the New Dimensions Growth Team of American Express Asset Management in La Jolla, CA, as the T/M/T manager across six growth funds with $40 billion plus in AUM. In 2004, I was nominated for Institutional Investor Magazine's "Best of the Buy Side." Those years instilled in me the importance of rigorously vetting opportunities and leading with foresight—skills that I have consistently applied to every entrepreneurial venture. From 2011 to 2015, I helped transform a boutique Florida skincare startup into a nationally recognized, multi-award-winning brand, culminating in its public listing via SPAC. I exited that company and launched Veedor Holdings LLC with my Co-Founder, Julie Koester. Today, we own and operate Dragon Horse Agency, a multi-award-winning, bi-coastal agency serving global clients known for delivering business strategy and marketing under one roof. We also own Dragon Horse Publishing, an award-winning publishing company, and Moxie Creed, a wellness lifestyle e-commerce company. Beyond the accolades, successes, challenges, and failures, I live with a deep belief in resilience, mentorship, and shared success. I’m a proud father, a former youth volleyball coach, and a passionate advocate of Ubuntu—"I am because we are." Whether scaling startups, navigating global markets, or building culture, I bring the same competitive spirit and collaborative ethos to every endeavor. Success isn't about accolades—it’s about legacy, community, and the courage to keep moving forward. As Winston Churchill said, “Success is not final; failure is not fatal; it is the courage to continue that counts.”

Patrick Schultz brings a sharp analytical edge to real estate investing, shaped by his experience as a research analyst for Jim Cramer on CNBC’s Mad Money. His deep understanding of financial markets, asset valuation, and investment strategies allows him to identify undervalued properties and optimize yield across his real estate portfolio. Alongside his wife, Hilary Schultz—a licensed real estate agent in Texas and Florida— their small family owned portfolio of businesses operate across every stage of residential real estate. They acquire homes, execute strategic renovations in SFR properties, and selectively retain assets that align with their long-term investment strategy. For Patrick and Hilary, real estate isn’t just about buying and selling—it’s about crafting solutions for homeowners. Whether purchasing homes for cash, revitalizing physically distressed properties, or helping sellers move forward with confidence, they approach every transaction with a problem-solving mindset. Their goal? Delivering outsized returns for investors while creating a delightful real estate experience for Texas home sellers.​

Patrick Schultz brings a sharp analytical edge to real estate investing, shaped by his experience as a research analyst for Jim Cramer on CNBC’s Mad Money. His deep understanding of financial markets, asset valuation, and investment strategies allows him to identify undervalued properties and optimize yield across his real estate portfolio. Alongside his wife, Hilary Schultz—a licensed real estate agent in Texas and Florida— their small family owned portfolio of businesses operate across every stage of residential real estate. They acquire homes, execute strategic renovations in SFR properties, and selectively retain assets that align with their long-term investment strategy. For Patrick and Hilary, real estate isn’t just about buying and selling—it’s about crafting solutions for homeowners. Whether purchasing homes for cash, revitalizing physically distressed properties, or helping sellers move forward with confidence, they approach every transaction with a problem-solving mindset. Their goal? Delivering outsized returns for investors while creating a delightful real estate experience for Texas home sellers.​

Patrick Schultz brings a sharp analytical edge to real estate investing, shaped by his experience as a research analyst for Jim Cramer on CNBC’s Mad Money. His deep understanding of financial markets, asset valuation, and investment strategies allows him to identify undervalued properties and optimize yield across his real estate portfolio. Alongside his wife, Hilary Schultz—a licensed real estate agent in Texas and Florida— their small family owned portfolio of businesses operate across every stage of residential real estate. They acquire homes, execute strategic renovations in SFR properties, and selectively retain assets that align with their long-term investment strategy. For Patrick and Hilary, real estate isn’t just about buying and selling—it’s about crafting solutions for homeowners. Whether purchasing homes for cash, revitalizing physically distressed properties, or helping sellers move forward with confidence, they approach every transaction with a problem-solving mindset. Their goal? Delivering outsized returns for investors while creating a delightful real estate experience for Texas home sellers.​

Some people list houses. Hilary Schultz builds solutions. With over 20 years in the industry as a licensed Realtor in Texas and Florida, she helps homeowners sell with confidence—whether through a fast and fair cash offer, a carefully structured listing, or a creative financing strategy. She and her husband operate a portfolio of real estate companies that cover every stage of the home-selling process. From acquiring and renovating distressed properties to managing long-term investments, their businesses are designed to create value while giving sellers real options. Hilary understands that no two home sales are alike, which is why she takes a problem-solving approach to every transaction. Her expertise in market trends, negotiations, and deal structuring allows her to help homeowners find the best path forward—quickly, efficiently, and with real financial results.

Real estate isn’t just about transactions—it’s about solving problems, and that’s where Hilary Schultz excels. A licensed Realtor in Texas and Florida with over two decades of experience, she helps homeowners make smart, strategic moves, whether they need a fast cash offer, a market-listed sale, or something in between. Alongside her husband, Hilary operates a portfolio of real estate companies that cover every stage of residential real estate—acquisitions, renovations, and long-term asset management. They don’t just buy and sell houses; they create value, revitalize communities, and help homeowners move forward with confidence. Her expertise in property valuations, negotiation, and market trends makes her a go-to resource for sellers looking for real solutions—not just quick fixes. With a strong track record and thousands of successful transactions, Hilary is known for getting deals done the right way

Alan Andrews is a Web Marketing Consultant at KIS Finance with a strong background in finance and a sharp focus on SEO. After 30 years in the finance sector – specialising in large bridging loans and development finance – he turned his attention to digital strategy, using his technical skills to drive online visibility and lead generation. Alan manages KIS Finance’s SEO and content performance, continuously refining the site’s structure and organic rankings. When he’s not testing site architecture or decoding Google updates, he’s sharpening his Krav Maga skills or enjoying coastal walks.

As a seasoned finance professional and entrepreneur, I offer a unique perspective that blends rigorous financial analysis with real-world business experience. My career spans various roles in higher education finance, entrepreneurship, and corporate settings, giving me a comprehensive view of today's economic landscape. My expertise allows me to provide insights on a wide range of topics, including budget planning, financial forecasting, entrepreneurship, and the challenges facing modern universities. I can offer data-driven analysis on financial trends, as well as practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. Additionally, as a local business owner and community member, I can speak to the economic climate and lifestyle of the Bay Area, particularly Marin County. Whether you're looking for expert commentary on financial matters, insights into the world of startups, or a local perspective on Bay Area living, I'm ready to provide clear, informed, and engaging responses to support your reporting.

Sales and tech strategist driven to the front lines of the fintech evolution within the mortgage lending industry. Ambitiously working to create new opportunities, simplify processes, and pioneer modern solutions. Over 15 years of experience in the financial industry as an executive, strategist, consultant, trainer and team developer. •Founder of Liberty Financing LLC Previously: •Chief Strategy Officer at American Financing Corporation •Investment Advisor at Charles Schwab Knowledge and in depth experience ranges across technology innovation and integration (API, AI, Web design, SEO, SaaS), marketing, mortgage lending, business development, sales training, project management, data analysis and financial analysis. I’m passionate about providing the absolute best experience for our customers and the most rewarding career opportunities for our hard working high quality team members Current NMLS MLO State Licenses. Previously held FINRA Series 7 & Series 66 Licenses, Life and Health Insurance License, and Accredited Asset Management Specialist designation from the College of Financial Planning.

I am a life long lover of all things real estate and construction since I was a young man building all kinds of forts. At 53yo, today we specialize in many exit strategies in both residential and commercial real estate investing. I love what I do and sharing the knowledge is my way of paying it forward!

Damon Paull, AWMA® - Financial Advisor, Best-Selling Author, Military Veteran As a wealth management advisor and Amazon best-selling author in Money and Business, Damon Paull brings a military precision to financial journalism. His recent collaboration with former FBI hostage negotiator Chris Voss on "Empathetic Leadership" shows he can take complex financial concepts and turn them into stories that resonate with everyone. With over 8 years of industry experience and a background as a Marine Corps veteran and State Department contractor, Damon writes about: • Intergenerational wealth transfer • Corporate benefit plan optimization • Investment portfolio construction • Business succession planning • Veteran financial empowerment • Global market analysis through a geopolitical lens As a Wealth Management Advisor at Cetera Investors, Damon’s expertise goes beyond traditional financial planning. He uses cutting-edge financial technology and analysis tools to bring you fresh perspectives on emerging trends and investment opportunities. His writing style is data-driven with a storyline, making complex financial concepts accessible to sophisticated investors and general audiences. Regular contributor to discussions on wealth preservation, market dynamics and financial technology. Damon welcomes opportunities to provide professional commentary and in-depth analysis for financial publications looking for expert opinions on wealth management and investment strategies. For editorial inquiries or commentary: Damon Paull, AWMA Damon.Paull@ceterainvestors.com 832.535.2286 Glen Allen, VA Available for national and international commentary Cetera Investors. Damon Paull, Wealth Management Advisor. Securities and Insurance Products offered through Cetera Investment Services LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered through Cetera Investment Advisers LLC. 140 EASTSHORE DR. SUITE 105, GLEN ALLEN, VA 23059. 804-346-4670. The opinions expressed are those of the writer, not recommendations of Cetera Investment Services LLC or its representatives.

Lon Welsh, founder of Ironton Capital, brings over two decades of experience in real estate and consulting. Previously a strategic consultant with Deloitte and Arthur Andersen (Accenture), he went on to build Your Castle Real Estate, managing over 700 Realtors and $2.5 billion in transactions in 2022 alone. At Ironton Capital, his mission is to provide busy professionals with passive, diversified real estate investments to help them grow their wealth and secure a stable financial future. With a focus on high-quality, investment-grade properties, Ironton Capital allows accredited investors to build wealth without the time commitment of managing their own rentals. Lon’s extensive experience, from authoring multiple real estate books to helping create numerous millionaires, drives the firm’s commitment to making a meaningful impact in both investors' lives and communities.

Experienced Sales And Marketing Specialist with a demonstrated history of working in the real estate industry. Skilled in Sellers, Negotiation, Customer Service, Sales, and Marketing Strategy. Strong marketing professional with a Bachelor of Engineering - BE focused in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from RMIT University.

Kristan de Graaf is the founder of Elite Rentals Dubai, known for its luxury cars and yachts, including Dubai’s only Lamborghini Yacht. He was named in Forbes’ 30 Under 30. Since 2019, Kristan and his brother Julian have built a fleet of 90+ luxury cars and yachts. Kristan also flips Dubai mansions, turning them into top-selling homes. Kristan’s work sets new standards in luxury.

Blake Morgan serves as Managing Partner of Mineral Vault following a career at Google, and, more recently, 10 years experience in mineral interest acquisition and management at Allegiance Oil & Gas and Anthem Oil & Gas. Mr. Morgan is a graduate of The University of Texas at Austin, where he received an academic scholarship to obtain his degrees in Business Honors & Finance. He is a native of Midland, Texas.

My name is Scott Bialek, Co-founder at Hurst Lending, a mid-sized mortgage lender offering conventional loans, jumbo loans, and a wide range of specialty mortgages to help you buy the home you want. I co-founded Hurst Lending in 2006. I'm also an attorney, Residential Mortgage Loan Originator (NMLS# 284767), and real estate broker. I founded several other companies including a real estate development company and a mortgage investment fund for accredited investors. I also held senior legal roles at Dell and USAA, have a J.D. from St. Mary’s School of Law and a BBA from the University of Texas at Austin.

Julian de Graaf is the co-founder of Elite Rentals Dubai, overseeing a fleet of high-end cars and yachts, including Dubai's exclusive Lamborghini Yacht. Since 2019, Julian and his partner Kristan have expanded their collection to more than 90 luxury vehicles and vessels. Julian is also known for transforming Dubai’s luxury real estate, flipping mansions into record-setting properties. Julian’s vision and dedication fuel the success of his luxury ventures.

Digital Entrepreneur and Marketing Strategist with proven expertise in SEO, content creation, and social media growth. Built multiple successful online businesses from the ground up, including a social media marketing education website and a highly-trafficked golf niche website generating hundreds of thousands of annual visitors. Demonstrated track record of scaling social media accounts from zero to tens of thousands of engaged followers across YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. Expert in developing comprehensive content strategies that drive measurable growth and engagement. As a trusted voice in the digital space, I've collaborated with global brands including McDonald's, Warner Music, eBay, and GoDaddy on successful marketing campaigns. My approach combines deep technical SEO knowledge with creative content strategy to consistently deliver exceptional results. Key Focus Areas: - Social Media Strategy & Growth - SEO Optimization & Traffic Generation - Content Creation & Brand Building - Digital Marketing Consulting - Influencer Marketing & Brand Partnerships - Organic Growth Strategies Currently managing multiple websites and building engaged communities across various niches, helping brands and businesses maximize their digital presence and achieve sustainable growth.

Earl Yaokasin, CFA, is an investment manager who runs WealthArch Investment Services in Pasadena, CA. He is a fiduciary with over twenty years of experience, and whose entire personal portfolio is managed by the firm in the same investments as the company’s clients. His firm focuses on value investing, similar to Warren Buffet’s successful approach, and disciplined strategies designed to create growth with downside protection, enabling clients to move steadily towards their life goals and aspirations with confidence.