Capital Club

Why do very few of today's wealthiest families trace their fortune back to the magnates of 1900, despite the high investment returns since then?

In this episode, Brian delves into wealth sustainability and financial decision-making with Victor Haghani, founder and CIO of Elm Wealth and co-author of "The Missing Billionaires: A Guide to Better Financial Decisions." He shares insights into why many fortunes don't survive across generations, highlighting the importance of smart investment strategies, risk management, and adaptable spending policies. Through an engaging conversation, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the empirical facts and strategic decisions crucial for long-term wealth preservation.

[00:01 - 06:34] The Genesis of "The Missing Billionaires"

• How Victor identified a gap in the financial decision-making literature
• The surprising historical fade of wealth across generations
• The book's impact and relevance

[06:35 - 12:16] Deciphering Wealth Dissipation

• The phenomenon of wealth not persisting across generations
• Rigid spending policies exacerbate financial vulnerability over time
• The role of risk management and spending policies in preserving wealth

[12:17 - 17:59] Risk, Return, and Spending: The Critical Triad

• How to diversify investments and avoid overly concentrated portfolios
• The danger of rigid spending policies and the need for adaptability
• A utility function to make informed risk-taking decisions

[18:00 - 24:14] The Cultural Aspect of Financial Decisions

• Generational differences in approach to wealth can lead to its dissipation
• The importance of entrepreneurial spirit in sustaining family wealth
• Balancing between growing and preserving wealth across generations

[24:15 - 29:06] Future-Proofing Wealth: Strategies and Reflections

• The importance of aligning investment strategies with personal and familial goals
• Practical advice for those facing a liquidity event or starting a family office
• The societal implications of wealth accumulation and preservation

Key Quotes:

"Every author finds the motivation in feeling that there's a gap that's crying out to be filled." - Victor Haghani

"The more risk that you take, the more that you're eating into your compound returns." - Victor Haghani

Connect with Victor!

Website: www.elmwealth.com   

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victorhaghani 



This episode is sponsored by Mack International, a specialized executive search and human capital consulting firm serving the family office/wealth management markets. Please visit their website here for more information.

Connect with me:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-c-adams/ (LinkedIn)

LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, AND LEAVE US A REVIEW on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or whatever platform you listen on. Thank you for tuning in and Stay Tuned for the Next Episode COMING SOON!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can family businesses navigate the complexities of succession planning to ensure a legacy of success?

In this episode of the Capital Club Podcast, Brian sits down with Dan Beenken, Director of the University of Northern Iowa Family Business Center. With over 15 years of experience in succession consulting, Dan delves into the unique challenges and opportunities that come with family business succession planning. From "Jerry Springer moments" to strategic success stories, this conversation sheds light on the importance of communication, preparation, and the delicate balance of family dynamics in business. Listeners will gain invaluable insights into creating a sustainable legacy for generations to come.

[00:01 - 08:17] The Genesis of Succession Planning

• The proliferation of family business centers addressing succession planning
• The role of external training and networking in enhancing family business consulting
• Identifying common succession challenges, such as generational tug-of-war and sibling rivalry

[08:18 - 16:10] Navigating Generational Transitions

• Importance of trust and letting go for the founding generation
• Addressing sibling dynamics and power struggles in succession
• The critical role of clear communication and planning in avoiding "self-inflicted wounds."

[16:11 - 24:08] Building a Framework for Success

• Utilizing peer-to-peer learning for sharing experiences and strategies
• Importance of external experiences and roles for successors
• The value of third-party consultants in facilitating difficult conversations

[24:09 - 31:44] Case Studies and Success Stories

• Detailed case study of a manufacturing firm's succession planning
• The impact of in-law dynamics on succession processes
• Structured approaches to transition planning and role assignment

[31:45 - 36:06] Lessons Learned and Best Practices

• Early communication and involvement of next-gen in the business
• The necessity of external work experience for successors
• Clarity and openness as essential elements for successful transitions

Key Quotes:

"For everybody, it's so much easier to hold others accountable than it is to hold yourself accountable." - Dan Beenken

"Clear is kind, and unclear is unkind." - Dan Beenken

Connect with Dan!

Website: https://unifamilybusinesscenter.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danbeenken 



This episode is sponsored by Mack International, a specialized executive search and human capital consulting firm serving the family office/wealth management markets. Please visit their website here for more information.

Connect with me:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-c-adams/ (LinkedIn)

LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, AND LEAVE US A REVIEW on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or whatever platform you listen on. Thank you for tuning in and Stay Tuned for the Next Episode COMING SOON!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can the intertwining of personal heritage and business innovation forge a legacy that transcends generations and borders? In this episode, we explore Adam Taki's fascinating family story. With a rich heritage that spans continents and industries, Adam shares his unique perspective on building a bridge between traditional family values and contemporary entrepreneurial ventures. From the origins of his family’s business in Japan to the evolution of his investment strategies in the United States, this conversation unveils the layers of challenges and triumphs that come with carrying forward a legacy. Through stories of resilience, strategic innovation, and personal discovery, Adam provides insight into what it means to maintain relevance in an ever-changing business landscape while staying true to one's roots.

[00:01 - 06:07] Legacy of Innovation

• The significance of family history in shaping business acumen
• The transition from traditional Japanese business to Western markets
• The role of personal challenges in driving innovation

[06:08 - 14:03] Crafting a Global Brand

• Strategies for global expansion and brand development
• Overcoming cultural and market barriers
• The importance of vision in leadership

[14:04 - 23:21] Navigating Personal and Professional Growth

• The interplay between personal identity and business decisions
• The impact of academic pursuits on professional paths
• Balancing family legacy with individual aspirations

[23:22 - 30:09] Innovative Investment Strategies

• The evolution of investment strategies in a changing economy
• Utilizing tax lien receivables as an investment vehicle
• The importance of adaptability in investment

[30:10 - 36:08] Building a Legacy for the Next Generation

• The challenges of living up to a family legacy
• The role of mentorship and legacy in entrepreneurship
• Strategies for impact investing and creating sustainable value

Key Quotes:

"Never stop asking questions, because through them, you find paths to improvement." - Adam Taki

"Thinking about your exit when starting a business is not counterintuitive; it's strategic." - Adam Taki

Connect with Adam!

Website:https://actlien.com/ 



This episode is sponsored by Mack International, a specialized executive search and human capital consulting firm serving the family office/wealth management markets. Please visit their website here for more information.

Connect with me:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-c-adams/ (LinkedIn)

LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, AND LEAVE US A REVIEW on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or whatever platform you listen on. Thank you for tuning in and Stay Tuned for the Next Episode COMING SOON!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you ever considered how the complexities of the insurance market can impact your personal and business decisions?

In this episode, Brian is joined by Kama Moseley from Lockton Private Risk Solutions. With her unique blend of legal expertise and insurance knowledge, Kama delves into the unprecedented challenges of the current insurance market. They explore how severe weather events, interest rates, and inflation are reshaping insurance strategies, especially for ultra-high-net-worth individuals. Kama shares insightful tips on navigating this turbulent market, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive risk management and the role of insurance in legacy preservation.

[00:01 - 08:08] Introduction to Kama Moseley and Lockton

• Kama's background in law and insurance
• Lockton's status as a privately owned company influences its operations
• Lockton's unique position in the insurance market

[08:09 - 15:17] Discussing the Hard Market in Insurance

• Understanding of what a hard market in insurance means
• How clients are affected by rising premiums and policy changes
• The importance of having a knowledgeable broker in tough markets

[15:18 - 22:08] Private Risk and Liability Concerns

• The evolving nature of private risk insurance
• The significance of liability coverage in protecting assets
• Strategies for managing personal risk

[22:09 - 30:00] Breaking Down Insurance Terms

• Clarity on fundamental insurance terms
• Insight into the reasons behind rising premiums
• The potential future trajectory of insurance costs

[30:01 - 38:30] Liability and Risk Management Strategies

• The need for comprehensive risk management
• The role of insurance in legacy preservation
• Effective strategies for ultra-high-net-worth individuals

Key Quotes:

"In an unprecedented hard market, it's about finding new avenues to manage risks effectively." - Kama Moseley

"Insurance is not just about premiums; it's about understanding and covering your true risks." - Kama Moseley

Connect with Kama!

Website:https://global.lockton.com/co/es 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kamamoseley



This episode is sponsored by Mack International, a specialized executive search and human capital consulting firm serving the family office/wealth management markets. Please visit their website here for more information.

Connect with me:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-c-adams/  (LinkedIn)

LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, AND LEAVE US A REVIEW on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or whatever platform you listen on. Thank you for tuning in and Stay Tuned for the Next Episode COMING SOON!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can reframing the purpose of wealth and family offices lead to a more meaningful and impactful legacy?

In this episode, Brian delves into a conversation with Jill Barber, President of CYMI Holdings, and Greg McCann, Co-Founder of Generation 6 Family Enterprise Advisors. They explore the evolving landscape of family offices, emphasizing the shift from traditional wealth management to a more holistic approach centered around family well-being and purpose-driven wealth. The dialogue uncovers the challenges and potential of family offices in nurturing both financial success and family harmony, highlighting the importance of leadership, culture, and reframing wealth. Let's dive in!

[00:01 - 00:10:24] Rethinking Family Office Fundamentals

• Challenges in the traditional family office model
• The importance of shifting focus from wealth to individual family members
• Exploring new models for family offices centered on individual and family well-being

[10:25 - 20:42] Leadership and Culture in Family Offices

• The role of leadership in shaping family office culture
• Building a culture that values both individual and collective growth
• The impact of internal culture on family dynamics

[20:43 - 30:26] Wealth, Well-being, and Family Harmony

• Balancing wealth management with family member well-being
• Strategies for addressing family dynamics and conflicts
• The importance of understanding the family’s purpose and values

[30:27 - 40:10] Innovation and Reframing in Family Offices

• Innovative approaches to managing family offices
• The concept of reframing wealth and its purpose
• Encouraging entrepreneurial spirit within the family structure

[40:11 - 45:10] Practical Applications and Future Outlook

• Practical tips for implementing change in family offices
• The importance of ongoing adaptation and learning
• Future trends and potential shifts in the family office landscape

Key Quotes:

"When you change one person in the system or one part of the system and the whole system changes." - Jill Barber

"Owning your strengths, weaknesses, and blind spots is just part of being a great person and leader." - Greg McCann

Book: Reshaping Reality: Unlocking the Potential of the Single Family Office

Connect with Jill!

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jill-barber-22b6404 

Connect with Greg!

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-mccann-039a3a7



This episode is sponsored by Mack International, a specialized executive search and human capital consulting firm serving the family office/wealth management markets. Please visit their website here for more information.

Connect with me:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-c-adams/ (LinkedIn)

LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, AND LEAVE US A REVIEW on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or whatever platform you listen on. Thank you for tuning in and Stay Tuned for the Next Episode COMING SOON!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can understanding and evolving the family business owner roles and responsibilities support long-term success and sustainability? In this episode, Nick Di Loreto, a Partner at BanyanGlobal Family Business Advisors, talks about the complexities and challenges of generational transition in family businesses. With his extensive experience in advising private family businesses, he delves into the nuances of ownership, the importance of defining roles, and the development of effective strategies for both current and future generations.

[00:01 - 06:23] - The Journey into Family Business Advisory

• Nick's personal background and entry into family business advisory
• The unique nature of family businesses compared to other corporate structures
• Insights into the transition from unawareness to becoming a key advisor in the field

[06:24 - 13:57] - Defining Effective Ownership in Family Businesses

• The importance of understanding the concept of ownership and its impact on business success
• The ten core competencies required for effective ownership
• How ownership roles and expectations influence family business dynamics

[13:58 - 18:40] - The Dynamics of Roles and Responsibilities

• The various types of owners within a family business and their roles
• How defining owner roles can prevent conflict and foster better decision-making
• The significance of clear communication and role expectations in a family business setting

[18:41 - 26:10] - Building Competencies and Overcoming Inertia

• Strategies for developing competencies among family business owners
• The challenge of overcoming inertia and generational gaps in family businesses
• The role of external education and resources in enhancing owner skills

[26:11 - 32:06] - The Future of Family Business: Adaptation and Growth

• The need for family businesses to adapt to changing roles and market conditions
• The importance of structured governance and decision-making processes
• The evolution of family businesses and the impact of external influences

Key Quotes:

“What no one really tells you is that you can hire managers and board members, but you can’t hire owners and family members. So focus on developing as owners and family members, because those roles are irreplaceable.” - Nick Di Loreto

“The process is as, if not more, important as the outcome.” -  Nick Di Loreto

Connect with Nick!

Website: https://banyan.global/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholasadiloreto

This episode is sponsored by Mack International, a specialized executive search and human capital consulting firm serving the family office/wealth management markets. Please visit their website here for more information.

Download our FREE Strategizing for Inflation Guide here: https://www.excelsiorgp.com/download/

Connect with me:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-c-adams/ (LinkedIn)

LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, AND LEAVE US A REVIEW on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or whatever platform you listen on. Thank you for tuning in and Stay Tuned for the Next Episode COMING SOON!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Money is often a taboo topic that causes stress and anxiety. In this episode, Maggie Klokkenga, a financial coach who helps people improve their relationship with money, explains that our habits around money often stem from childhood and the messages we internalize from our parents. These "money scripts" continue to influence how we think and act with finances unconsciously. She discusses techniques to rewrite those money scripts and make more conscious, values-aligned choices about spending and saving.

Maggie Klokkenga is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, CPA, AFC®, and the founder of Make a Money Mindshift, a financial coaching firm in central Illinois. Maggie has been in the financial services industry for over 25 years, and she teaches that once you discover your WHY, you can adjust your mindset and change your HOWs to achieve your WHATs.

[00:01 - 09:19] Why Money Remains a Taboo Topic

• Societal attitudes that discourage open conversations about money often root back to childhood
• The familiar discomfort when discussing income and finances even with family members
• Money scripts learned from parents continue influencing our financial behaviors unconsciously

[09:20 - 21:44] Techniques for Rewriting Money Mindsets

• Maggie uses "Money Script Thought Ladders" to help shift limiting mindsets gradually
• This model triggers awareness of emotional charges and physical reactions related to money talk
• Practice pauses and breathing, grounding skills to reduce anxiety in money contexts

[21:45 - 29:58] Current Pain Points Around Personal Finance

• High-interest debt from credit cards charging 25-30% is distressingly common
• The re-emergence of federal student loan repayments after the pandemic pause is a rude awakening
• Lack of basic financial literacy education feeds confusion and erodes confidence

[29:59 - 39:23] Coaching Women in Financial Transition

• Listening without judgment, letting them process emotions and "word vomit" initially
• Tackling logistical money issues first before examining feelings more deeply
• Avoiding analysis paralysis by celebrating tiny money victories consistently

Key Quote:

"It's so uncomfortable for our brains to make change. Our brains want us to stay safe... Until something almost thrusts us into a new experience." - Maggie Klokkenga

Connect with Maggie Klokkenga!

Website: https://makeamoneymindshift.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maggie-klokkenga-cpa-cfp/ 

This episode is sponsored by Mack International, a specialized executive search and human capital consulting firm serving the family office/wealth management markets. Please visit their website here for more information.

Download our FREE Strategizing for Inflation Guide here: https://www.excelsiorgp.com/download/

Connect with me:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-c-adams/ (LinkedIn)

LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, AND LEAVE US A REVIEW on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or whatever platform you listen on. Thank you for tuning in and Stay Tuned for the Next Episode COMING SOON!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Buckle up for an inside look at the complex world of private jets. Host Brian Adams talks with FlyExclusive President Tommy Sowers about his unusual path to leading one of the nation’s top charter companies. They turbulence-proof your understanding of this fragmented industry, from dodging shady operators to knowing when to pull the trigger on buying your own plane. Along the way, Tommy shares what powers flyExclusive's journey from startup to industry rocketship. But it's not all clear skies—they also unpack hair-raising risks like safety gaps and crippling cash burn.

The Honorable Tommy Sowers, Ph.D., serves as President of flyExclusive expanding on a career in entrepreneurship, academia, the military and public service. He is a graduate of Duke University and received his Masters and Ph.D. from the London School of Economics. A U.S. Army Green Beret combat veteran, Sowers previously served as an Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. He co-founded and was Chief Executive Officer of Durham and San Francisco-based GoldenKey and was a management consultant at McKinsey & Company. Tommy most recently served as the Southeast region lead for innovation for the U.S. Department of Defense and taught innovation and entrepreneurship at Duke University.

[00:01 - 06:23] Growth and Fragmentation of the Private Aviation Industry

• Tommy's unconventional path to becoming President of flyExclusive after an exit
• The founding and bold vision of flyExclusive to build a large operation in a small NC town
• FlyExclusive has grown from 1,838 to 2nd largest by flight hours
• The industry remains fragmented with high barriers to M&A
• Capital intensity contributes to fragmentation

[06:24 - 17:59] Projecting the Future and Evaluating Providers

• Boom during pandemic but expects cyclical normalization
• Key criteria: safety ratings, mission match, maintenance reliability
• Assess strategy/longevity, get on a plane to inspect quality
• Complicated business prone to cash burn - warning signs

[18:00 - 21:38] Plane Ownership Considerations

• Safety issues are an obvious non-starter
• Around $10M+ net worth is the typical threshold
• Time savings and flexibility main benefits of outright ownership

Key Quote:

"Our founder likes to say, once you try private, it's hard to go back." - Tommy Sowers

Connect with Tommy Sowers!

Website: https://www.flyexclusive.com/ 

Email: [email protected] 

This episode is sponsored by Mack International, a specialized executive search and human capital consulting firm serving the family office/wealth management markets. Please visit their website here for more information.

Download our FREE Strategizing for Inflation Guide here: https://www.excelsiorgp.com/download/

Connect with me:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-c-adams/ (LinkedIn)

LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, AND LEAVE US A REVIEW on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or whatever platform you listen on. Thank you for tuning in and Stay Tuned for the Next Episode COMING SOON!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Running a successful multi-generational family business is no easy feat. The statistics are daunting—only about 30% survive into the second generation and a mere 12% operate into the third. So what sets the thriving minority apart? In this episode, third-generation business owner Rodrigo Himiob draws upon his personal experience navigating the familial complexities of business to provide some keen insights. Discover what Rodrigo has identified as the core component for harmoniously carrying on an enduring family legacy.

Rodrigo Himiob is a family business advisor who embraces a collaborative, process-improvement approach to solving complex business problems. Venezuelan-born, Rodrigo is a third-generation business owner whose expertise encompasses executive leadership, operations, project management, and strategic planning. His academic training as an engineer and experiential knowledge as a family business advisor differentiate him as a service provider, and his ability to move people as harmonic units toward a common goal augments his value as a board member.

[00:01 - 06:08] Rodrigo's Background and Journey into Family Business Consulting

• 3rd generation family business owner in Venezuela
• Studied engineering but always had a passion for family businesses
• Provides perspective as an owner who wants to carry on the legacy

[06:09 - 20:04] Bringing in Advisors to Prevent Bigger Issues 

• The trigger is often an acute moment of anxiety - death, retirement, turmoil
• Advisors are usually brought in to put out fires instead of proactively
• Best to bring in advisors early to prevent bigger issues down the line
• Rules and meeting agreements facilitate better communication

[20:05 - 25:20] Non-Family Dynamics and Red Flags

• Important to give spouses and trusted advisors a voice
• Building shared base knowledge enables productive discussions
• Red flags - legal disputes and overly pushy family member

[25:21 - 33:22] Professionalizing the Family Enterprise

• Thoughtful process for bringing in outside executives
• Have buy-in from family for major decisions
• Frequently reassess board competencies as the company evolves
• Need to move from a "country club" to a proper institutionalized board

Key Quote:

“Focus on what your points of unity are. Work toward those because that's ultimately what we're trying to build.” - Rodrigo Himiob

Connect with Rodrigo Himiob!

Website: https://generation6.com/ 

Email: [email protected] 

This episode is sponsored by Mack International, a specialized executive search and human capital consulting firm serving the family office/wealth management markets. Please visit their website here for more information.

Download our FREE Strategizing for Inflation Guide here: https://www.excelsiorgp.com/download/

Connect with me:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-c-adams/ (LinkedIn)

LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, AND LEAVE US A REVIEW on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or whatever platform you listen on. Thank you for tuning in and Stay Tuned for the Next Episode COMING SOON!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For families with great wealth, financial capital is just table stakes. The real challenge is the human element—how families relate to each other across generations. In this conversation, Aileen Miziolek provides concrete strategies for helping family members better communicate, resolve conflicts, and build partnerships.

Aileen Miziolek helps families use their wealth intentionally, with meaning, purpose, and direction to create the fulfilling lives they desire. She is a guide to business-owning families and families of means who are navigating the unique opportunities and challenges of inter-generational wealth transfer, business succession planning, estate planning, and philanthropy. Aileen brings a multi-disciplined and integrated approach to her work, including 20 years of experience in complex financial and estate planning, family systems coaching, and family business consulting. She is the co-author of Inspired Wealth, Financial Leadership for the 21st Century, and believes that all families can learn the skills to flourish at the intersection of wealth, personal well-being, and positive family relationships.

[00:01 - 06:44] Early Days and Evolution of Aileen’s Work 

• Started as an entrepreneur during the Great Recession
• Became a financial planner focused on family businesses
• Wrote the book Inspired Wealth about integrating coaching and mindset work

[06:45 - 20:25] The Power of Systems Coaching and Relationship Skills

• Systems coaching works with the whole family, not just individuals
• Teaches critical relationship skills
• Focuses on co-creating, adapting together
• Managing conflict and staying curious

[20:26 - 34:21] Working with Sibling Teams

• Define partnership, create a shared vision
• Utilize complementary strengths
• Establish trust and belief in each other
• Validate differences but nurture collaboration

[34:22 - 44:00] Coaching Program with a Financial Planning Process

• Creating a process for people to understand their financial goals
• Facilitating communication in families
• The mission to grow wealth sustainability

Key Quote:

“The fastest way to destroy wealth is conflict in families.” - Aileen Miziolek

Connect with Aileen Miziolek!

Websites: https://aileenmiziolek.com/ and https://www.thefbcg.com/ 

This episode is sponsored by Mack International, a specialized executive search and human capital consulting firm serving the family office/wealth management markets. Please visit their website here for more information.

Download our FREE Strategizing for Inflation Guide here: https://www.excelsiorgp.com/download/

Connect with me:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-c-adams/ (LinkedIn)

LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, AND LEAVE US A REVIEW on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or whatever platform you listen on. Thank you for tuning in and Stay Tuned for the Next Episode COMING SOON!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.