In this insightful episode of The Innovators & Investors Podcast, host Kristian Marquez sits down with Jon McLaughlin, managing partner at Emberline and CEO of TBX. Jon shares his unique journey from Wall Street derivatives trading to backpacking around the world, followed by an MBA and deep private equity operational experience.

Together, Jon and Kristian explore Emberline’s thematic investment approach that targets transformative opportunities in legacy industries like wildfire risk management and aviation safety. Jon discusses the significance of investing with strategic vision, adding value through active management, and the crucial importance of trustworthy partnerships with business owners.

The conversation delves into challenges of turnarounds, risk mitigation through contingency planning, and the innovative integration of AI to revamp traditional businesses. Jon also reflects on leadership lessons learned while running multiple companies, the importance of founder-led sales, and how culture takes time to build. Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on blending finance, technology, and hands-on operational focus to grow and protect impactful companies.

This episode is a must-listen for investors, operators, and entrepreneurs committed to driving meaningful change in complex markets.

Learn more about Jon's work at https://www.emberline.com/

Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdmac/

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply at https://finstratmgmt.com/innovators-investors-podcast/

Want to learn more about Kristian Marquez's work? Check out his website at https://finstratmgmt.com