Great Aspirations

Hosted by Wealthspire Advisors

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Apr 2026

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About the show

Welcome to Great Aspirations, Wealthspire's podcast series on life, wellness, and financial advice. Hosted by the CEO of Wealthspire, Michael LaMena, each episode shares the experiences of extraordinary people whose stories inspire others to think big, find balance, and explore the possibilities of achieving health, wealth, and happiness. Season 1 highlights game changers in financial services - women who have elevated the industry through their extraordinary achievements.

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25 recent

April 21, 2026Episode 31 hr 6 min

Driven Beyond Limits: Robert Wickens on Resilience, Reinvention, and the Road Back

In this episode of Great Aspirations, Mike LaMena sits down with Robert Wickens to explore resilience, innovation, and the determination to return to what you love. Through his journey, Robert shares how preparation, mindset, and an unwavering belief in possibility fueled his path back to racing—and how partnership and perseverance can turn even the most difficult setbacks into a new definition of success.IMPORTANT DISCLOSURE INFORMATIONWealthspire Advisors LLC and certain of its affiliates are separately registered investment advisers. This presentation is for general information and educational purposes only. It should not be construed as personalized investment, legal, tax, or accounting advice, or a guarantee that you will experience a certain level of results if Wealthspire is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide services. While the information is considered to be reliable, Wealthspire cannot guarantee its accuracy, completeness, or suitability for any purpose, and makes no warranties with regard its use. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and it should not be assumed that any investment, investment strategy, or non-investment related or planning services will be profitable, be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. A copy of Wealthspire’s current written disclosure Brochure discussing our services and fees is available upon request or at www.wealthspire.com.©2026 Wealthspire

March 30, 2026Episode 242 min

The Power of Giving: LTC (Ret) Robert Grunewald's Service in Action

In this episode of Great Aspirations, Mike LaMena sits down with Lt. Colonel Rob Grunewald (Retired) to reflect on service, leadership, and the events of September 11 at the Pentagon. Through his experience, Rob shares how years of preparation shaped his response in a moment of crisis—and how the power of giving is often defined by courage, selflessness, and a commitment to others.IMPORTANT DISCLOSURE INFORMATIONWealthspire Advisors LLC and certain of its affiliates are separately registered investment advisers. This presentation is for general information and educational purposes only. It should not be construed as personalized investment, legal, tax, or accounting advice, or a guarantee that you will experience a certain level of results if Wealthspire is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide services. While the information is considered to be reliable, Wealthspire cannot guarantee its accuracy, completeness, or suitability for any purpose, and makes no warranties with regard its use. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and it should not be assumed that any investment, investment strategy, or non-investment related or planning services will be profitable, be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. A copy of Wealthspire’s current written disclosure Brochure discussing our services and fees is available upon request or at www.wealthspire.com.©2026 Wealthspire

January 20, 2026Episode 138 min

Beyond the Fairway: Purpose, Giving, and Legacy with Harris English

Hosted by Wealthspire CEO, Mike LaMena, This season of Great Aspirations is centered on a simple but powerful idea: the power of giving.At Wealthspire, we talk often about success, growth, and opportunity—but we believe true wealth is measured by something deeper. It’s measured by the impact we have on others. By the lives we touch. By what we choose to give back, how we choose to give, and why. Our guest for episode 1 is Harris English, 5-time PGA Tour champion, who speaks not only to his journey as a pro golfer, but his commitment to giving back to the golf community. IMPORTANT DISCLOSURE INFORMATIONWealthspire Advisors LLC and certain of its affiliates are separately registered investment advisers. This presentation is for general information and educational purposes only. It should not be construed as personalized investment, legal, tax, or accounting advice, or a guarantee that you will experience a certain level of results if Wealthspire is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide services. While the information is considered to be reliable, Wealthspire cannot guarantee its accuracy, completeness, or suitability for any purpose, and makes no warranties with regard its use. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and it should not be assumed that any investment, investment strategy, or non-investment related or planning services will be profitable, be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. A copy of Wealthspire’s current written disclosure Brochure discussing our services and fees is available upon request or at www.wealthspire.com.©2026 Wealthspire

June 10, 2025Episode 749 min

From Breaking News to Building Legacy: Angie Lau's Journey to Living a Life Fulfilled

In this episode, Mike LaMena talks to Angie Lau, an award-winning journalist turned entrepreneur and someone who’s deeply passionate about shaping a brighter future for the next generation. She is the Editor-in-Chief and Co-Founder of ASRV’s Life Beyond School, an initiative that helps kids and families get ready for the ever-changing, tech-driven world we’re all navigating. IMPORTANT DISCLOSURE INFORMATIONWealthspire Advisors LLC and certain of its affiliates are separately registered investment advisers. This presentation is for general information and educational purposes only. It should not be construed as personalized investment, legal, tax, or accounting advice, or a guarantee that you will experience a certain level of results if Wealthspire is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide services. While the information is considered to be reliable, Wealthspire cannot guarantee its accuracy, completeness, or suitability for any purpose, and makes no warranties with regard its use. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and it should not be assumed that any investment, investment strategy, or non-investment related or planning services will be profitable, be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. A copy of Wealthspire’s current written disclosure Brochure discussing our services and fees is available upon request or at www.wealthspire.com.©2026 Wealthspire

March 31, 2025Episode 619 min

Dreams Achieved: Caroline Gaynor's Lessons from Guiding Visually Impaired Athletes

In this episode, Mike LaMena speaks to Caroline Gaynor, vice president, relationship director and investment specialist at Avantis Investors®. Prior to joining Avantis Investors, Caroline served as a regional director at Dimensional Fund Advisors (DFA). Caroline is also a sought-after public speaker who has presented at numerous events and conferences for end-investor and advisor audiences. Caroline has also previously held positions with BNY Mellon, Moody’s Analytics and BlackRock. In addition, Caroline is an Ironman guide for blind/visually impaired athletes.IMPORTANT DISCLOSURE INFORMATIONWealthspire Advisors LLC and certain of its affiliates are separately registered investment advisers. This presentation is for general information and educational purposes only. It should not be construed as personalized investment, legal, tax, or accounting advice, or a guarantee that you will experience a certain level of results if Wealthspire is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide services. While the information is considered to be reliable, Wealthspire cannot guarantee its accuracy, completeness, or suitability for any purpose, and makes no warranties with regard its use. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and it should not be assumed that any investment, investment strategy, or non-investment related or planning services will be profitable, be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. A copy of Wealthspire’s current written disclosure Brochure discussing our services and fees is available upon request or at www.wealthspire.com.©2026 Wealthspire

February 18, 2025Episode 556 min

Life in Full Bloom: Jim McCann’s Impact and Legacy on Modern Business and Philanthropy

In this episode, Mike LaMena speaks to Jim McCann, entrepreneur, philanthropist, public speaker and published author. Jim is the Founder of 1-800 Flowers, a world-renowned floral and food gift retailer based in Long Island, NY. He also serves as Chairman of Worth Media Group, as well as a variety of other private and not-for-profit boards. Jim is deeply involved in philanthropy and is especially devoted to helping individuals with developmental disabilities. This includes his continued work as Founder and Chairman of Smile Farms Inc., a 501c3 not-for-profit organization established in 2015. IMPORTANT DISCLOSURE INFORMATIONWealthspire Advisors LLC and certain of its affiliates are separately registered investment advisers. This presentation is for general information and educational purposes only. It should not be construed as personalized investment, legal, tax, or accounting advice, or a guarantee that you will experience a certain level of results if Wealthspire is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide services. While the information is considered to be reliable, Wealthspire cannot guarantee its accuracy, completeness, or suitability for any purpose, and makes no warranties with regard its use. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and it should not be assumed that any investment, investment strategy, or non-investment related or planning services will be profitable, be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. A copy of Wealthspire’s current written disclosure Brochure discussing our services and fees is available upon request or at www.wealthspire.com.©2026 Wealthspire

January 14, 2025Episode 430 min

A Wish Fulfilled: Matthieu Pavon’s Journey to the Masters

In this episode, Mike LaMena speaks to French professional golfer, Matthieu Pavon, who plays on the PGA Tour and the European Tour. Matthieu turned professional in 2014 and won on the Alps Tour in that year and again in 2015. Over the course of his career he has continuously placed high in numerous tournaments in both the US and Europe. In 2023 he won his first European Tour event in Spain, and most recently, at the 2024 Farmers Insurance Open, Matthieu became the first French golfer to win on the PGA Tour since 1907.IMPORTANT DISCLOSURE INFORMATIONWealthspire Advisors LLC and certain of its affiliates are separately registered investment advisers. This presentation is for general information and educational purposes only. It should not be construed as personalized investment, legal, tax, or accounting advice, or a guarantee that you will experience a certain level of results if Wealthspire is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide services. While the information is considered to be reliable, Wealthspire cannot guarantee its accuracy, completeness, or suitability for any purpose, and makes no warranties with regard its use. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and it should not be assumed that any investment, investment strategy, or non-investment related or planning services will be profitable, be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. A copy of Wealthspire’s current written disclosure Brochure discussing our services and fees is available upon request or at www.wealthspire.com.©2026 Wealthspire

November 14, 202437 min

The Highest Peak: A Band of Brothers’ Pursuit of Fellowship, Fundraising and Fun

In this episode, Mike LaMena speaks to Alden Mills, Brett Bush and Chip Pyfer on their enduring friendship and their shared passion for mountain climbing and giving back to their communities. Alden Mills is a renowned motivational speaker, a nationally-ranked rowing champion, a 3-time Navy SEAL platoon commander, CEO of one of the fastest growing companies in America, and author of Be Unstoppable, Unstoppable Teams and Unstoppable Mindset. Brett Bush is a partner and the COO at Greywolf Capital Management in San Francisco. He is also on the Board for the Raphael House of San Francisco, whose mission is to help low-income families and families experiencing homelessness achieve stable housing and financial independence.Chip Pyfer is a Managing Director and Advisor for Wealthspire based in our Bay Area offices. He is a member of the firm’s Investment Committee, providing leadership and input to the Investment team. In addition to his multiple credentials as a financial planner, Chip also has a JD from Willamette University College of Law. IMPORTANT DISCLOSURE INFORMATIONWealthspire Advisors LLC and certain of its affiliates are separately registered investment advisers. This presentation is for general information and educational purposes only. It should not be construed as personalized investment, legal, tax, or accounting advice, or a guarantee that you will experience a certain level of results if Wealthspire is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide services. While the information is considered to be reliable, Wealthspire cannot guarantee its accuracy, completeness, or suitability for any purpose, and makes no warranties with regard its use. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and it should not be assumed that any investment, investment strategy, or non-investment related or planning services will be profitable, be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. A copy of Wealthspire’s current written disclosure Brochure discussing our services and fees is available upon request or at www.wealthspire.com.©2026 Wealthspire

October 10, 2024Episode 236 min

Empowered: Mike James’ Inspiring Journey to Leadership and Philanthropy

In this episode, Mike LaMena speaks to Mike James, Executive Vice President and Chief Sales Officer at NFP. Mike is responsible for driving the strategic direction of NFP’s sales organization and also plays an active role in the company’s diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging strategy, serving as a trusted advisor to NFP leaders on related issues. He is an active participant in a variety of industry and community organizations, serving as chair of the Finseca Board of Directors, on the Board of Trustees for Suffolk University and The American College of Financial Services, and on the Board of Directors of LL Global, the nonprofit parent company for LIMRA and LOMA. He is also an engaged supporter of Nationwide’s Financial Alliance for Racial Equity, the No Books No Ball Basketball Program and the Roxbury YMCA. IMPORTANT DISCLOSURE INFORMATIONWealthspire Advisors LLC and certain of its affiliates are separately registered investment advisers. This presentation is for general information and educational purposes only. It should not be construed as personalized investment, legal, tax, or accounting advice, or a guarantee that you will experience a certain level of results if Wealthspire is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide services. While the information is considered to be reliable, Wealthspire cannot guarantee its accuracy, completeness, or suitability for any purpose, and makes no warranties with regard its use. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and it should not be assumed that any investment, investment strategy, or non-investment related or planning services will be profitable, be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. A copy of Wealthspire’s current written disclosure Brochure discussing our services and fees is available upon request or at www.wealthspire.com.©2026 Wealthspire

September 13, 2024Episode 144 min

Life in Abstract: Abbott Stillman’s Inspiring Journey from Real Estate to Art

In the Season 3 opening episode, Mike LaMena talks to Abbott Stillman, real estate developer, venture investor and artist based in New York City. Wealthspire did not receive direct or indirect compensation from the authors related to the production of this podcast episode.CERTIFIED DIVORCE FINANCIAL ANALYST® or CDFA® professionals must develop their theoretical and practical understanding and knowledge of the financial aspects of divorce by completing a comprehensive course of study approved by the Institute for Divorce Financial Analysts (IDFA). CDFA® professionals must have two years minimum experience in a financial or legal capacity prior to earning the right to use the CDFA® certification mark.Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (CFP Board) owns the certification marks CFP®, Certified Financial Planner™, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the United States, which it authorizes use of by individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.IMPORTANT DISCLOSURE INFORMATIONWealthspire Advisors LLC and certain of its affiliates are separately registered investment advisers. This presentation is for general information and educational purposes only. It should not be construed as personalized investment, legal, tax, or accounting advice, or a guarantee that you will experience a certain level of results if Wealthspire is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide services. While the information is considered to be reliable, Wealthspire cannot guarantee its accuracy, completeness, or suitability for any purpose, and makes no warranties with regard its use. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and it should not be assumed that any investment, investment strategy, or non-investment related or planning services will be profitable, be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. A copy of Wealthspire’s current written disclosure Brochure discussing our services and fees is available upon request or at www.wealthspire.com.©2026 Wealthspire