The UHNW Institute Podcast

Hosted by The UHNW Institute

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Oct 2026

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About the show

THE UHNW Institute Podcast, a bi-monthly series, explores the wealth management industry that serves the UHNW, providing voice to the firms and families they serve as they seek to build, grow and nurture the wealth from one generation to the next. Looking beyond money, the podcast aligns with the Institute’s mission to incorporate the Ten Domains of Family Wealth, with topics related to the financial, investment, governance, estate planning, philanthropy, risk management, leadership, learning and development, health and wellness and family dynamics of the UHNW.

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35 recent

October 14, 202625 min

The SFO Circle - The Care Economy: What Every Family Office Needs to Know

Summary In June, Teresa Leigh, founder of Teresa Leigh Home + Family Office, led a private SFO Circle Clinic on the fast-changing landscape of eldercare and what she calls “the care economy.” The session prompted many family office executives to rethink how they support the families they serve, and the conversation was too important to leave in the room. In this episode, Kristen welcomes Teresa back to continue that dialogue. Whether you attended the clinic or are coming to these ideas for the first time, this is a practical and deeply human look at one of the most significant, and often overlooked, responsibilities a family office can take on. In this episode, we discuss: What the care economy is, and why it reaches well beyond ageing parents to include special needs, chronic illness, neurodegenerative disease, and wider family support The true financial cost of care today, and why families so often underestimate both its complexity and its expense What has changed in the past five years to make this conversation more urgent A real-world case study showing what happens when a family waits too long to plan The common characteristics of families who navigate care transitions well What surprised family office executives at the June clinic, and how it shifted their thinking The point at which eldercare moves from a private family matter to a family office responsibility The emotional cost of care, and how family office leaders can balance logistics with empathy The biggest gaps family offices still need to close One practical action every family office executive can take in the next 90 days What a career spent alongside families in vulnerable moments has taught Teresa about the true meaning of wealth Key takeaway Caring for families goes well beyond managing wealth. As the care economy evolves, family offices have a real opportunity to help families prepare for life’s most important transitions with greater confidence and clarity, and the time to start that planning is before it is needed. About our guest Teresa Leigh is the founder of Teresa Leigh Home + Family Office, where she supports families through eldercare and the wider challenges of care across generations. Learn more To find out more about the SFO Circle, our private clinics, and upcoming educational programming, visit The UHNW Institute .

September 23, 202652 min

Table Stakes 2.0

Summary In this episode, Tom McCullough discusses the evolution of the Table Stakes framework, emphasizing the importance of client-centric, integrated wealth management. He explores how the industry is shifting towards a professionalized role of the integrated advisor and the significance of understanding client needs in a complex world. Key topics Evolution of Table Stakes framework Client-centric wealth management Role of integrated advisors Industry standards and professionalization Importance of understanding client needs Impact of AI and information access Discovery process improvements Collaboration between specialists and integrators For more information about the Institute and our work, head over to - https://www.uhnwinstitute.org/ Video Link -

September 10, 202650 min

Ten Domains - An Evolution....

Summary In this episode, Russ Haworth chats with Jim Grubman and Tom McCullough about the evolution of integrated family wealth advice and the role of the Ten Domains model in reshaping how advisors meet the needs of ultra-high-net-worth families. Key topics Evolution of the ten domains model Family advisory relationships and their central role The importance of adaptation and continuous improvement How firms are using the ten domains for client conversations and strategy The distinction between content domains and delivery (FAR) The impact of the model on industry standards and practices The analogy of orchestration in wealth management Future skills and competencies for advisors The importance of lifelong learning and innovation Video To watch the video of this episode, click on this link . To find out more about The Institute and our work, head to - https://www.uhnwinstitute.org/

August 24, 202647 min

The Integrated Advisor: How to Develop Talent for Ultra High Net Worth Families

Show notes: In this episode, Jamie McLaughlin sits down with David Salsberg (President and Founder, Gresham Partners) and Michael Zeuner (WE Family Offices) to explore what it really means to be an "integrated advisor" in the ultra high net worth space. They discuss why complexity and multi-generational wealth demand advisors who can connect the dots across investment, tax, legal and estate planning, rather than specialists working in silos. David and Michael share how their firms identify, hire and develop this talent from the ground up, including structured development programmes, mentorship models and the patience required to build these skills over a decade or more. The conversation also covers how AI and changing organisational models are reshaping the talent pipeline, and why retention hinges on giving advisors a clear career path and genuine ownership of client relationships. Topics covered: What distinguishes an integrated advisor from a specialist The skills that can be taught versus those that must be developed through experience How Gresham Partners and We Family Offices structure talent development and mentorship The impact of AI on organisational design in wealth management Why retention and culture are now central to serving ultra high net worth families Visit The Ultra High Net Worth Institute website here - https://www.uhnwinstitute.org/

August 17, 202647 min

The New Family Office Frontier: Longevity, Human Capital & the Rise of the Chief Wellness Officer

Welcome to this episode of the SFO Circle Podcast with host, Kristen Oliveri. For decades, family offices have focused on preserving and growing financial capital. But increasingly, families are asking a different question: How do we preserve and optimize human capital? Conversations about health are evolving. What was once considered a personal matter is increasingly becoming a family office priority, from longevity and preventive care to caregiving, wellness and quality of life. In this episode, Kristen is joined by Zachary Faas, Vice President, Client Advisory and Consulting and Doctor of Psychology at Intent Clinical, Lisa Iaquez, Corporate Director, Business Development and Longevity Advisory at Canyon Ranch and Dr. Brian Dooreck, Founder and President of Executive Health Navigation. Together they explore the growing intersection of family offices, longevity and wellness. They discuss emerging trends, what families are asking for, the realities of aging and caregiving, and the concept of a Chief Wellness Officer—a role that may become as important to some families as their investment advisor or estate attorney. As family offices continue to evolve, the definition of wealth is expanding beyond financial assets alone. Increasingly, families are recognizing that longevity, wellness, caregiving and overall quality of life deserve the same thoughtful planning as investments, governance and estate structures. You can find out more about the work of The Institute here: https://www.uhnwinstitute.org/

July 29, 20261 hr 3 min

Michael Zeuner: The Making of an Integrated Advisor

Private Wealth Podcast — Michael Zeuner, WE Family Offices Episode summary Host Joe Reilly speaks with Michael Zeuner, managing partner at WE Family Offices and co-founder and board member of the Ultra High Net Worth Institute. Michael traces his career from consulting at Andersen Consulting and Booz Allen through senior roles at Chase Manhattan, JP Morgan Private Bank and Gen Spring Family Offices, to co-founding WE Family Offices in 2013. Along the way he unpacks the industry's shift from a supply-side, product-manufacturing model to a demand-side, advice-led one, the emergence of open architecture, and what it takes to build a sustainable, scalable advisory business without losing the intimacy that ultra high net worth families expect. He closes with reflections on talent development, common mistakes families make after a liquidity event, and how AI is reshaping business development in the wealth management sector. In this episode Early life and education, and a formative mentorship at Shawmut Bank that shaped his approach to client work Foundational lessons from his consulting years about advice being disconnected from product economics Meeting Mel Lagamasino at Chase Manhattan Private Bank and the early experiments that became open architecture Why JetBlue became an internal reference point for a demand-driven business model The move to Gen Spring Family Offices, its growth through acquisition, and hard-won lessons on cultural alignment in M&A Partnering with Pat Soldano (Simric) and Santi Uyoha (TBK) and how those relationships shaped the retainer-fee, non-discretionary model Founding WE Family Offices in 2013 on flat fees, non-discretionary advice and keeping control with the family Where scale genuinely helps (reporting, technology, manager due diligence) versus where it does not (the advisory relationship itself) Building and retaining advisory talent, including why the first two to three years are the highest turnover risk Common mistakes families make after a major liquidity event How AI-driven search is changing inbound business development for boutique advisory firms Guest Michael Zeuner is a managing partner at WE Family Offices and a co-founder and board member of the Ultra High Net Worth Institute. He previously served as senior executive partner at Gen Spring Family Offices and as Global Head of Wealth Solutions at JP Morgan Private Bank. He holds an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and a BA from Brandeis University, and hosts the Wealth Enterprise Briefing Podcast. Host Joe Reilly, head of Circulus Group, a family office network based in Greenwich, Connecticut. Find out more about The Institute here - https://www.uhnwinstitute.org/

July 6, 202650 min

Coaching and Mentoring - The Rising Generation

Summary In this episode, we explore the unique challenges and strategies involved in coaching and developing the next generation within family systems, emphasizing identity, legacy, and emotional maturity. Key topics Differences between developing emerging leaders in organizations and family members Importance of identity, legacy, and emotional maturity in family development The concept of personhood and its impact on family members' decision-making The role of coaching and mentoring in developing confidence and judgment The importance of experiential learning and real responsibility Balancing protection and pressure to foster independence The significance of self-awareness and internal development Strategies for advisors to support without taking over decision-making Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Family Gens Development 02:13 Differences Between Organizational and Family Development 04:47 The Personhood and Identity in Family Members 07:08 Preparing Family Members for Wealth and Decision-Making 09:56 The Role of Knowledge, Experience, and Gut Feelings 17:00 Coaching, Mentoring, and Developing Judgment 22:55 Advisor Support and Avoiding Backseat Driving 29:09 Balancing Protection and Pressure in Development 45:11 Quickfire: What to Stop and Start in Development 49:59 Signs of Readiness for Responsibility in Rising Gens Resources & Links Ultra High Net Worth Institute - https://www.uhnwinstitute.org

May 27, 202623 min

Building a 100-Year Family Office: Strategies and Insights

Show Notes In this insightful interview, Kathy Lintz shares her journey from financial education to leading Matter Family Office, emphasizing the importance of purpose, communication, and strategic planning in managing ultra-high net worth families. Discover her approach to family governance, the evolution of wealth management, and how technology is transforming the industry. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kathy Lintz and Her Journey 02:47 The Evolution of Financial Planning and Education 05:54 Founding KBL Financial and Working with Athletes 08:59 Transitioning to Matter Family Office 11:47 Understanding Client Needs and Family Dynamics 14:56 Building a Strong Firm Culture 17:54 The Role of Technology in Wealth Management 20:56 Advice for Aspiring Wealth Managers Guest links LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/kathylintz Website - https://matterfamilyoffice.com/

May 20, 202621 min

The Global Experience Economy: How UHNW Families Are Redefining Luxury

INTRO: Welcome to the SFO Circle Podcast, where we explore the ideas, strategies, and evolving dynamics shaping today’s single family offices and the families they serve. I’m Kristen Oliveri, Senior Advisor to the Institute and the SFO Circle, and in this episode, we turn to a topic that continues to gain momentum across the ultra-high-net-worth community: the rise of the global experience economy. Today, I’m joined by Teresa Chope, CEO and Founder of Gallivant, for a conversation on how today’s wealth holders are redefining luxury through experiences, from major global events like the Olympics, World Cup, and Formula 1 to more bespoke, invitation-only moments that blend travel, access, and connection. Together, we'll explore what's actually driving today's most discerning families — beyond the familiar narratives — how the global lifestyle calendar has evolved from a list of events into a strategic tool, what it really takes to access the world's most coveted moments, and where Teresa sees the experience economy heading over the next few years. It’s a conversation about access, intention, and how experiences are becoming one of the most meaningful expressions of wealth today. Let’s dive in. QUESTIONS: Teresa, there's been no shortage of commentary about ultra-wealthy families shifting from possessions to experiences. The New York Times , Robb Report, Condé Nast — everyone is covering it. But you're in the rooms with these families. What is the conventional wisdom getting wrong, or oversimplifying, about what's actually happening at the UHNW level? How has the concept of a “global lifestyle calendar” evolved for UHNW individuals and families? Why do major global events—like the Olympics, World Cup, or Formula 1—hold such strong appeal for this audience? How are families using these events not just for entertainment, but for connection, networking, or multi-generational bonding? Art is something we don't always associate with the experience economy in the same breath as Formula 1 or the Olympics — but you've described it as one of the most quietly powerful anchors on the UHNW calendar. Can you talk about that? What does access at the highest level look like— or the kind of invitation-only previews that never make it into any publication? What are some of the anchor events that tend to show up on the UHNW social calendar each year? Can you walk us through the different tiers of access that exist around major global events? What separates traditional VIP hospitality from the truly ultra-exclusive experiences? Are UHNW clients increasingly seeking experiences that feel private, behind-the-scenes, or invitation-only? Private aviation is often framed as a convenience, a time-saver. But in your experience, has it fundamentally changed what's even possible for a family trying to construct an ambitious global life — in ways that go beyond logistics? Is it primarily about efficiency and flexibility, or does it unlock a different level of access entirely? What trends are you seeing in how ultra-wealthy families pursue their personal passions and interests globally? Are younger generations approaching luxury travel and global experiences differently than previous generations? If someone wanted to start building their own global events calendar, what would be the first two or three experiences you would recommend? CONCLUSION: As we’ve explored today, the rise of the global experience economy is reshaping how families think about wealth, not just as something to preserve, but as something to live. From intentional global calendars to art previews that never make it into print, to multi-generational journeys that become part of a family's defining story — the through line is always the same: the most meaningful experiences don't happen by accident. They're designed. A special thank you to Teresa Chope for sharing her perspective and insights with us. And thank you, as always, for being part of the SFO Circle community. If you enjoyed this conversation, we invite you to subscribe, share, and continue engaging with us as we explore the ideas shaping the future of single family offices.

April 29, 202649 min

The Future of Leadership in Wealth Management: Coaching & Mentorship Strategies

This episode examines one of the defining challenges in ultra high net worth wealth management and family office environments: how do you identify, develop, and retain the next generation of leaders at a time when client expectations, generational values, and organisational cultures are all shifting simultaneously? Drawing on the experience and perspectives of Milton Pedraza and Richard Orlando, the conversation moves from the conceptual to the practical. It covers the meaningful distinctions between coaching and mentorship, the conditions that allow emerging leaders to genuinely flourish, and why so many high-calibre firms inadvertently stall the development of their best people despite having every intention to do the opposite. At its core, this is an episode about trust: how leaders earn it from clients, how organisations earn it from their people, and how the field of wealth management must evolve its culture and leadership philosophy if it is to attract and hold the talent it needs for the long term. After listening to this episode, practitioners and leaders in wealth management and family office contexts should come away with: A clearer understanding of the difference between coaching and mentoring, and when each is most appropriate. Practical insight into the conditions that either support or undermine leadership development within high-calibre organisations. A more nuanced view of what emerging leadership looks like beyond technical competence or seniority. Specific prompts for reflecting on how their own organisations approach talent development and retention. A stronger appreciation of the generational dynamics shaping client and colleague expectations in wealth management today. Concrete questions to ask when evaluating whether their firm’s leadership culture is fit for the next decade.