In this special 200th episode of Inside the Rope, David Clark is joined by Koda Capital’s Chairman Steve Tucker and CEO Paul Heath to reflect on the evolution of wealth management since the podcast’s inception in 2016. From humble beginnings to over 200 candid conversations with some of the world’s best investment minds, this milestone marks a journey of insight, access, and innovation. The episode explores the wealth advice industry's transformation into a true profession, the growing importanc...
Jul 07, 2025•50 min
In this episode of Inside the Rope, David Clark sits down with legendary investor Marc Lasry, co-founder and CEO of Avenue Capital and former owner of the Milwaukee Bucks. Lasry unpacks the explosive growth of private equity in the global sports industry—where financial returns meet passionate fandom. From his journey as a Moroccan-born immigrant to building a $25 billion investment firm, Lasry offers a firsthand look at why sports franchises are no longer just vanity assets for billionaires, bu...
Jun 23, 2025•48 min
In this episode of Inside the Rope, host David Clark sits down with Tim Samway, founder of Scarcity Partners and former managing director of Hyperion Asset Management, to explore one of the most compelling trends in asset management—GP staking (General Partner staking). What if, instead of being on the paying end of fund management fees, you could invest in the fund managers themselves? That’s exactly what GP staking enables—and it’s gaining serious momentum in Australia. Tim breaks down: * What...
Jun 09, 2025•46 min
In this episode of Inside the Rope, host David Clark sits down with Craig Packer, Co-President of Blue Owl Capital – a $140 billion powerhouse in private lending. From humble beginnings to one of the fastest-growing alternative asset managers globally, Craig shares the inside story behind Blue Owl’s explosive rise, its strategy of targeting multi-billion-dollar private equity-backed companies, and how the firm is redefining the landscape of direct lending. 💡Key topics covered include: * Why US ...
May 26, 2025•1 hr 1 min
In this episode of Inside the Rope, David Clark speaks with David Gribble, the newly appointed CEO of Alceon, one of Australia's leading multi-strategy private capital firms. Against a backdrop of heightened market volatility and growing media scrutiny of private credit, David Gribble shares his perspective on the evolving role of private markets and how Alceon is positioning itself through this cycle. The conversation explores Gribble’s unique journey from engineering and investment banking to ...
May 12, 2025•56 min
David Clark welcomes back Andrew Lockhart, Managing Partner of Metrics Credit Partners — one of Australia's largest private lenders and a major force shaping the future of private credit. With private credit markets booming — and critics warning of bubbles and risks — David and Andrew explore why private credit can play a critical role in a high-net-worth portfolio when approached with discipline and scale. They dive deep into the key metrics that investors should evaluate in private credit, inc...
Apr 28, 2025•1 hr 5 min
After seven years of trying, we’ve finally done it—this episode of Inside the Rope features one of the most influential figures in institutional investment in Australia: David Neal, CEO of IFM Investors and founding CIO and former CEO of the Future Fund, Australia’s $300+ billion sovereign wealth fund. David takes us behind the scenes of building the Future Fund from the ground up—how a clean slate, a world-class board, and a clear long-term mandate allowed for a new investment philosophy rooted...
Apr 14, 2025•51 min
In this episode of Inside the Rope, David Clark is joined by Laurence Marshbaum OAM, founder of 10x10 Philanthropy and Community Capital, to explore how wealthy families can embed philanthropy into their legacy. Together, they discuss why more families are establishing Private Ancillary Funds (PAFs) and how strategic giving can sit alongside wealth creation and preservation. Laurence shares his journey from institutional fund management to purpose-driven investing, shedding light on how families...
Mar 31, 2025•51 min
David Clark welcomes back David Witkin, Managing Partner of Beryl Capital, discussing event-driven investing and market opportunities. With a track record of delivering outstanding returns, Beryl Capital has been at the forefront of merger arbitrage and special situations, benefiting from corporate activity across global markets. As investors navigate a rapidly changing landscape—shaped by geopolitical shifts, artificial intelligence, and shifting economic policies—Witkin shares his insights on ...
Mar 17, 2025•35 min
In this episode of Inside the Rope, David Clark sits down with Catherine Allfrey of Wavestone Capital and Caroline Gurney, CEO of Future Generation, to explore why increasing female representation in funds management is not just about fairness—it’s about better outcomes for investors and the broader economy. We dive into the launch of Future Generation Women, a new fund exclusively managed by female portfolio managers, designed to drive both strong financial returns and positive social impact. W...
Mar 04, 2025•33 min
In this episode of Inside the Rope, host David Clark sits down with Frewen Lam, Managing Partner at ROC Capital, to explore the ever-evolving landscape of private equity, private credit, and real assets. Frewen shares his journey from a first-generation Australian with immigrant roots to co-founding ROC, now managing $8.5 billion in assets. Key Highlights: * Frewen’s transition from public to private markets—why he believes private investments outperform. * Lessons from investing in Asia, includ...
Feb 17, 2025•41 min
One of Australia's most successful financial minds abroad - In this episode of Inside the Rope, host David Clark sits down with Mike Dorrell, founder and CEO of Stonepeak, a $100 billion infrastructure investment powerhouse. From his humble beginnings in Australia, to building one of the largest private infrastructure firms in the U.S., Mike shares his journey of entrepreneurship, resilience, and strategic vision. He offers invaluable insights into infrastructure investing, where he sees the str...
Feb 03, 2025•1 hr 11 min
Unlock the complexities of family leadership and estate planning in this enlightening episode of Inside the Rope. Join David as he speaks with Evana Lithgow from Working Minds, a renowned psychologist specialising in the transition and succession of wealth for high-profile families in Australia and New Zealand. Discover how successful families navigate challenges beyond financial capital, fostering meaningful relationships and connections as their true legacy. From overcoming wealth-related conf...
Jan 20, 2025•48 min
In this episode of Inside the Rope with David Clark, we sit down with Peter Edwards, Executive Chairman of the Victor Smorgon Group, one of Australia's most enduring multi-generational family offices. Peter takes us behind the scenes of a pivotal decision: opening the doors of this storied family office to external investors. Discover the rationale behind this transformative move, how it shapes their investment strategy, and what it means for both the family and outside participants. From their ...
Jan 06, 2025•50 min
David Clark sits down with Brad Powell, Managing Director of Emerson Collective, the influential family office and investment vehicle of Laurene Powell Jobs. With a portfolio exceeding $11.5 billion, Emerson Collective leverages innovative strategies to address global challenges. Brad provides an insider’s perspective on the Collective’s unique approach to balancing financial returns with social impact across sectors like education, healthcare, and climate transition. Discover how they’re reshap...
Dec 23, 2024•45 min
Be inspired by a new wave in investment leadership. In this compelling episode, host David Clark sits down with Armina "Arms" Rosenberg, co-founder of Minotaur Capital and one of the most innovative minds in funds management today. From her humble beginnings in Sydney's West to managing global equity portfolios for Mike Cannon-Brookes, Arms’ journey is nothing short of inspiring. Discover how Armina leverages cutting-edge AI technology to revolutionise investment research, creating a competitive...
Dec 09, 2024•41 min
David Clark welcomes back the brilliant John Hempton, CEO and co-founder of Bronte Capital, to discuss the chaos and opportunities in today’s financial landscape. Known for his sharp insights and global investment acumen, John unpacks why markets seem irrational today. From the rollercoaster impact of Trump-era policies to the rise of speculative trades like GameStop and Bitcoin miners, this conversation dives deep into the forces shaping global financial trends. A mix of wisdom, strategy, and a...
Nov 25, 2024•43 min
Join David Clark on Inside the Rope as he speaks with Frank Danieli, Head of Credit Investment and Lending at MA Financial Group. In this episode, they delve into the Australian private credit and debt market, addressing concerns about potential bubbles and exploring the unique investment opportunities in low-risk, low-volatility portfolios. Frank also sheds light on the MA Priority Income Fund, offering insight into asset-backed lending and specialised finance areas, which promise robust return...
Nov 11, 2024•38 min
This podcast episode from "Inside the Rope" features an in-depth conversation with Manny Pohl, a South African-born investment professional who transitioned to Australia and became a key figure in fund management, including building the firms Hyperion and ECP Asset Management. Manny reflects on the importance of humility, teamwork, and building a business for the long term. ECP boasts a return since inception (July 2012) of 13% p.a. to 30 Sep 2024 compared to the market’s 10% p.a. This engaging ...
Oct 28, 2024•39 min
In this episode of Inside the Rope, David interviews Dafina Toncheva, a general partner at the US-based venture capital firm, USVP. Dafina shares her inspiring journey from growing up in Communist Bulgaria to earning a scholarship to Harvard and completing her MBA at Stanford. Now a prominent figure in venture capital, Dafina discusses USVP's history, including its success in managing 12 funds, 11 of which have been profitable. She highlights USVP’s impressive track record, which includes 93 IPO...
Oct 14, 2024•41 min
In this episode of Inside the Rope, David speaks with Michael Rosen, co-founder and CEO of Context Capital. They discuss his journey in finance and the founding of the firm. Michael covers his career managing a mutual fund group and the decision to start Context Capital after recognising the limits of traditional mutual funds, particularly the lack of hedging options available. Michael covers Context Capital’s investment strategy, which focuses on convertible bonds, a hybrid asset that sits betw...
Sep 30, 2024•35 min
In this episode of Inside the Rope, host David Clark interviews Jim Eddy, founder and CEO of Jamberoo Action Park, a successful entrepreneur from Wollongong. Jim shares his journey, discussing how his background in real estate investment and overcoming personal challenges shaped his approach to business. The conversation covers important lessons for wealth management, such as managing risk, debt, and investment in seasonal businesses. Jim explains how he transitioned from a land surveyor at BHP ...
Sep 16, 2024•1 hr 3 min
In this episode of Inside the Rope, host David Clark shifts focus from traditional wealth management to personal wellness, in a conversation with Damian Chaparro, the founder of Aro Ha, a wellness retreat in New Zealand. The episode explores the intersection of health and wealth, highlighting how wealth encompasses a sound body and mind. Damian shares his journey from IT consultant to wellness architect, driven by a desire for purpose and holistic living. Damian discusses the creation of Aro Ha,...
Sep 02, 2024•48 min
This podcast episode of Inside the Rope features a conversation between David Clark, and Paul Francis, a sports science expert and early-stage sports science investor. Paul has an impressive career background, having held senior positions at Adidas and Nike, and worked as a performance advisor to NFL teams such as the Miami Dolphins and Atlanta Falcons. He has also collaborated closely with elite athletes like Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Lionel Messi. The discussion delves into the influen...
Aug 19, 2024•1 hr 7 min
In this special live event episode recorded in Melbourne, Inside The Rope celebrates a milestone with its 176th episode, marking the second live event in honor of 175 episodes. The event features an impressive lineup of guests from the world of finance and investment, each bringing their unique insights and experiences to the table. Guest Speakers: Michael Lukin, CFA: Group Managing Partner of Roc Partners, Michael Lukin shares his journey from the management buy-out of Macquarie Group’s private...
Aug 12, 2024•1 hr 6 min
Ep 175: Live Event - Jess Farr-Jones, Mike Lukin & Tim Carleton - Public and private market insights by David Clark
Jul 29, 2024•1 hr 5 min
In this episode of Inside the Rope, David interviews Adrian McKenzie, founder and partner of Five V Capital, an Australian private equity firm focused on the mid-sized market in Australia and New Zealand that boasts a remarkable internal rate of return. David highlights Adrian's notable career, including his tenure at CVC Capital Partners, where he was the youngest ever partner and board member. Adrian shares insights from his vast experience, including both successful investments as well as cha...
Jul 16, 2024•51 min
In this episode of Inside The Rope, David welcomes Dan Ariely, a globally renowned expert in behavioural economics. Dan is a professor of psychology and behavioural economics at Duke University, and in this episode he shares his insights into the irrational ways in which people make decisions and how understanding these behaviours can improve financial decisions, motivation, health, and end-of-life care. Dan begins by discussing his unique personal story, including the origins of his distinctive...
Jul 01, 2024•1 hr
In the concluding part of Inside The Rope's series on artificial intelligence, the focus shifts to the financial implications of AI. The episode explores how AI is poised to revolutionise investment markets, identifying potential winners and losers, and debating whether this surge is a bubble reminiscent of the dot-com era. The experts discuss the transformative potential of AI across various industries and the significant opportunities it presents for businesses globally. The discussion also to...
Jun 24, 2024•37 min
In episode 2 of Inside The Rope’s series on Artificial Intelligence, the discussion pivots to the revolutionary scope of generative AI and its deep societal impacts. This episode explores how AI is unlocking unprecedented potential in software development, enabling anyone to code and vastly expanding the pool of potential developers globally. It also tackles the productivity enhancements brought about by AI tools like GitHub Copilot, which significantly speed up the coding process. However, the ...
Jun 17, 2024•36 min
