@officialchadpeterman: Before you decide if private equity is right for you, get clear on the actual problem you're trying to solve. Need capital to grow? Ready to retire? Stuck and need help somewhere specific? That answer should come before any decision about a strategic partner. Then figure out which firm actually solves that problem. The right fit depends entirely on what you need. Don't rule PE in or out blindly. Evaluate your own situation first.