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

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.

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.

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.

I'm passionate about helping families build generational wealth through strategic retirement planning. As a retirement income strategist, I specialize in self-directed retirement solutions that give people more control over their financial future. My approach is pretty straightforward - I believe everyone deserves access to the financial strategies that the wealthy have been using for generations. I focus on showing clients how to leverage their existing assets, whether that's an old 401(k), home equity, or other resources, to create multiple streams of retirement income. What really drives me is seeing families break free from traditional financial limitations. I love educating people about options they didn't even know existed, like self-directed 401(k)s and velocity banking strategies. It's amazing to watch someone's eyes light up when they realize they have more control over their financial destiny than they thought. I take pride in sitting on the same side of the table as my clients - their success is my success. Whether we're mapping out a debt elimination strategy or creating a retirement income plan, my goal is to empower people with the knowledge and tools they need to build lasting wealth.

I'm a seasoned real estate investor, stager, and designer, with extensive experience in conducting deals across North America. Over the years, I’ve built and run four successful house-buying companies, and I’m passionate about helping others navigate the complexities of real estate. My expertise has earned me mentions in hundreds of publications such as Men's Journal, Zapier, and Bustle, covering a range of topics including finance, sales, real estate, and home décor. Whether it's buying and selling homes or discussing market trends, I bring a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience to every conversation.

Chris Sheehy is a Certified Google Ads Partner and member of Google Ads Advisors, with agency partnerships including BigCommerce, BrightLocal, SEMrush, Shopify, Squarespace, and Wix. Based in Rhode Island, he has specialized in Search Engine Optimization (SEO), digital marketing, and pay-per-click (PPC) advertising since 1997, serving small to medium-sized trade, service, manufacturing, and nonprofit organizations. Achievements: > Top-5 Startup Business in New England - Mass High Tech > Top Tech Entrepreneur - GoLocalProv > Top Web Development Firm - Providence Business News (PBN) > 5X Best Places to Work RI - PBN Educational Contributions: > Created and instructed continuing education courses in digital marketing and SEO at Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) > Served as technical and curriculum advisor for New England Tech University’s bachelor’s program in website design Media Features: Chris’s expertise has been featured on major networks such as ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC business news segments. He has been a subject of entrepreneurial studies at Columbia University and Johnson & Wales University and cited by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). His published work appears in Search Engine Journal, Polaris Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) of Rhode Island, Beyond.com, MarketingProfs.com, MOPAR Masters Magazine, Rhode Island Small Business Journal, RI Creative Magazine, SocialMediaToday.com, and others. He has also been quoted or referenced by Forbes, Unkorked, Databox, and highlighted in the Wall Street Journal and Yahoo Small Business Advisor, among various trending articles on Bing, Google, and LinkedIn News. Speaking Engagements: Chris regularly speaks at academic institutions including the University of Rhode Island (graduate studies), RISD (continuing education), and New England Tech University (undergraduate and graduate studies). He has presented to professional organizations such as the American Marketing Association, Polaris MEP of Rhode Island, Sail America, SailTime Franchise, Search Engine Marketing New England, SCORE, the Small Business Administration, and various trade and business groups. Personal Interests: Outside of his professional work, Chris enjoys rebuilding muscle-car era carburetors and working on his old car in his garage. Top Skills: Executive Leadership, Operations Management, Search Engine Optimization (SEO), Generative Engine Optimization (GEO), Pay Per Click (PPC), Operational Improvement

I’m Mark Damsgaard, VP of Marketing at Vancis Capital, following the merger with Global Residence Index, which I founded. As a Danish national fluent in both Danish and English, I’ve been involved in the investment migration industry since 2015. My journey started by helping service providers expand their client bases through digital marketing, but I quickly saw a gap in the market for genuine, client-focused advice. That led me to transform Global Residence Index from an informational website into a consultancy firm dedicated to offering unbiased, transparent guidance. At Vancis Capital, I continue to prioritize a client-first approach, leveraging strong relationships with local attorneys and industry professionals to ensure our clients receive personalized, up-to-date advice. My goal is to help individuals navigate the complexities of obtaining a golden visa or citizenship by investment while staying ahead of market trends and regulatory changes.

Innovative eCommerce and digital marketing leader with 15+ years of experience driving multi-million-dollar revenue growth through SEO, paid media, and omnichannel strategies. Proven track record in building high- performing teams and achieving up to 900% organic sales growth. Expertise in eCommerce platforms, customer retention, and performance marketing.