Velocity Made Good: Mike Mauzé on Growth Investing, the Consumer Product Space, and VMG Partners

In this episode, Lauren speaks with Mike Mauzé , Co-Founder and General Partner of VMG Partners, a San Francisco–based private equity firm investing in category-defining consumer and tech brands like Spindrift, [solidcore], Sun Bum, and Drunk Elephant. Since its founding in 2005, VMG has completed more than sixty investments and recently closed Fund VI at $1 billion, marking its largest fund to date.Key topics discussed include:Mike’s career journey from investment banking to pioneering growth equity before it was mainstreamThe founding vision of VMG, built around values, collaboration, and authentic partnerships with entrepreneursThe meaning behind “Velocity Made Good” and how it reflects the non-linear path of building brandsVMG’s investment philosophy, blending art and science to identify visionary founders and high-growth brandsFirm culture and individuality, and why authenticity is essential for building trust with entrepreneursThe evolution of consumer marketing, from in-store demos to TikTok and influencer-driven channelsLessons from decades in investing, including embracing mistakes and the value of continuous learningMike’s five-year cross-country bike journey, revisiting places from his life and careerAdvice for young professionals, focusing on building a strong foundation before stepping into creative, opportunity-driven phases of a careerMore of VMG Partners: www.vmgpartners.com