Beyond The Balance Sheet Podcast

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This isn’t just another episode—it’s a milestone! We’re excited to share that Beyond The Balance Sheet is evolving into something new. Starting today, our podcast will be called Unintended Consequences.

Why the change? As we’ve grown and listened to you, our audience, we’ve realized our conversations go beyond traditional definitions of success. We’re diving deeper into the ripple effects of decisions—both intentional and unexpected—on mental health, families, careers, and more.

With this new name and expanded focus, Unintended Consequences will explore the stories, lessons, and insights that emerge when life doesn’t go as planned. We’ll bring you the same expert interviews and thoughtful discussions you’ve come to expect, but with a broader lens and new topics.

Thank you for joining us on this journey. Your support has made this evolution possible, and we can’t wait to see where it takes us next.

Make sure you’re subscribed, so you don’t miss a beat!

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Follow us on social media for updates and let us know what you think of the new format.

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In this episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, Arden shares that the podcast is going on a brief hiatus. It will return in June 2024 with a fresh, new spin. Please stick around – we’ll be bringing you top-notch guests, including professionals and individuals with inspiring personal journeys. During our new podcast, we'll be shedding light on stories of resilience and addressing challenging topics not often discussed. Ensure you're subscribed to our newsletter for updates on the upcoming show. You can sign up on our website at www.OConnorPG.com.

Although Diana and I will continue as co-hosts, we will have a rotating group of hosts who are other O’Connor Professional Group staff members. For announcements, follow us on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and other social media platforms. Thank you for your continued support!

IN THIS EPISODE:

[:29] Arden shares Beyond the Balance Sheet will be on a short break until June 2024
[1:02] Sign up for our newsletter so you don’t miss exciting announcements about the new show. Diana and Arden are co-hosts with a rotating group of other OPG hosts and guests

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

When the podcast returns in June, there will be new guests and stories of resilience. Please don’t unsubscribe; stay tuned for the new format and guests.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

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In this revisited episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, Dr. Craig Heacock joins us. He is an adolescent and adult psychiatrist and addiction specialist in Colorado and the host and co-producer of the podcast Back from the Abyss: Psychiatry in Stories. First, Dr. Heacock gives us a brief history of ketamine from the last fifty years as an FDA-approved drug. We talk about how ketamine became a go-to treatment for resistant depression and bipolar disorder. Tune in as Dr. Heacock reveals how a state-of-the-art assessment delivery and follow-up for ketamine would look like.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:00] Ketamine: a brief history of the past fifty years.
[05:00] How would a state-of-the-art assessment delivery and follow-up for ketamine look like?
[09:00] Who is running the ketamine clinics if there’s a shortage of psychiatrists?
[11:55] How money and profit drive some of this ketamine delivery.
[16:09] Dr. Heacock’s experience with individuals who abuse ketamine.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Ketamine is a go-to treatment for resistant depression and bipolar disorder.
A state-of-the-art ketamine therapy involves a true psychiatric evaluation to see if there are other things that should be happening first.
Ketamine does not replace medications; it augments them and helps them work better.
Most people that are receiving ketamine treatments are very middle class.

LINKS MENTIONED:

craigheacockmd.com

Podcast: Back from the Abyss: Psychiatry in Stories

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/back-from-the-abyss-psychiatry-in-stories/id1469826718

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/theabysspod/

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/backfromtheabysspodcast/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-heacock-md-1a8618196

BIO:

Dr. Craig Heacock is an adolescent and adult psychiatrist and addiction specialist in Colorado and the host and co-producer of the podcast Back from the Abyss: Psychiatry in Stories. He was a co-therapist in the Phase 3 trial of MDMA-Assisted Psychotherapy for PTSD and has particular interest in the use of ketamine and other psychedelics to treat severe mood disorders and PTSD. He is a graduate of the University of New Mexico School of Medicine and did his psychiatry training at Brown University.

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In this revisited episode, we are joined by OPG’s Director of Aging Services, Sam van Kalkeren. Sam discusses how to help a loved one faced with a dementia diagnosis. He gives excellent information on how to communicate with a loved one to ensure their voice is heard as they navigate this difficult path. Sam talks about the benefits of having a care partner and what type of support they can offer the family. It is vital to have a care partner if the ailing family member lives out of state. We touch on what happens when someone with a dementia diagnosis gets a psychiatric admission and give excellent tips on keeping the loved one safe. This episode contains great information to help your aging parent handle cognitive decline.

IN THIS EPISODE

[2:20] How does a child support a parent facing cognitive decline?
[5:20] What are the benefits of having a care partner?
[8:52] What is the best way to communicate with someone with dementia?
[10:40] What does Sam recommend to children when they first hear the diagnosis?
[12:04] How do family members help someone struggling with dementia avoid being taken advantage of financially?
[14:24] What happens when someone goes into the hospital with a psychiatric admission?
[20:25] How do you help a family member who doesn’t want to accept their diagnosis?

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Have hard conversations about how the ailing parent wants to live the rest of their life. Do they want a DNI (do not intubate) or DNR (do not resuscitate)? Know all medications and have everything laid out to help the parent.
Form a relationship with a care partner if you are out of state or need additional support.
Those with dementia need a lot of support. Some people can continue to live at home, work, and speak for themselves, but the proper support needs to be in place.
If your loved one goes into the psychiatric emergency department, they may get scared and become aggressive. If they are sedated due to that behavior, it can be difficult to go back to inpatient care. An impatient home may not want to take the patient back if they display aggressive behavior. It’s important to have a care partner to help avoid the loved one being put in a psychiatric department.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-van-kalkeren-msn-rn/

BIO:

Sam van Kalkeren, MSN, RN, CDP, is OPG’s Director of Aging Services. He has been working as a psychiatric RN since 2012 and is a Certified Dementia Practitioner. Sam has worked with all age populations suffering from mental illness, from pediatrics to geriatrics. He has experience working with clients suffering from substance use and co-occurring disorders, complex mental health diagnoses, neurocognitive disorders, and personality disorders. Most of his nursing career has been in the inpatient psychiatric setting. Sam joined OPG from Tufts Medical Center in Boston. Before Tufts, he was the Patient Care Director for the geriatric and adult inpat

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Ayanna Davis, also known as Phenomenally Autistic, joins Diana to discuss her unique path to navigating autism as a black artist. Autism is often overlooked within the black community in America. Ayanna actively promotes the recognition of autism, using her art to express love, joy, equity, diversity, and inclusion. Alongside her advocacy, she has faced various health challenges commonly associated with an autism diagnosis. Meeting Ayanna is an enriching experience. Her strength and perseverance radiate through every facet of her journey.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[:29] Diana introduces Ayanna Davis, also known as Phenomenally Autistic
[1:36] Ayanna describes her feelings of being different and how she learned she was autistic
[4:39] Ayanna talks about her confusion about the diagnosis and what her childhood was like
[7:22] Ayanna speaks about the role art plays in her life
[9:13] Ayanna talks about her history of seizures, and she reveals what she expects 2024 to look like
[11:26] Ayanna explains how she named herself phenomenally autistic and how music plays a part in her life

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

[1:22] When you are an artist and autistic, some people will feel you are eccentric because of your artistic nature and not realize the underlying cause of your actions.
[4:21] Once Ayanna learned of her diagnosis, she began to express her “true self.”
[8:02] Ayanna’s neurodiversity allows her to see the world differently, as is apparent in her writing of children’s books.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

Phenomenally APhenomenally Autistic(Phenomenallyautistic) - Latest Linksutistic - Website

BIOGRAPHY:

Meet Ayanna, aka Phenomenally Autistic, an autism advocate advocating for black autistics to gain proper resources & visibility raised in Westchester County, New York. Along with being autistic, she has survived over 300 seizures, lives with Chronic illnesses, and has five autoimmune diseases. Still, she doesn’t let that stop her from spreading her messages of self-love, joy, equality, diversity, inclusion & autism acceptance through the Arts.

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Dr. Colleen Jackson discusses cognitive testing in a way that makes it easily understandable, alleviating any apprehension associated with the assessment. She starts by distinguishing between neuropsychological testing and cognitive assessments. Colleen shares insights into her approach and describes the valuable information that can be obtained from the testing process. Emphasizing a holistic perspective, she looks at an individual's overall health and well-being when giving her recommendations. Listeners will learn about cognitive assessments and neuropsychological testing to determine whether they might benefit a loved one.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[2:11] Colleen begins by describing the difference between neuropsychological testing and cognitive assessments
[4:17] Colleen explains what the tests look like from a client perspective and what is involved
[7:36] Colleen talks about how a family member can encourage a loved one to seek a provider and what is learned through the testing
[12:06] Colleen discusses older adults, specifically
[16:06] Colleen refers to different treatment protocols based on test results
[20:25] Colleen ends by discussing other illnesses that can impact mental health or cognitive impairment

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

[2:01] There is a difference between neuropsychological testing and cognitive assessment
[7:27] There are some tips that family members can use to encourage a person to seek a provider
[11:44] You can identify different conditions or illnesses through testing.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

Dr. Colleen Jackson - LinkedIn

BIOGRAPHY:

Dr. Colleen Jackson received her doctorate in clinical psychology from the University of Connecticut. She pursued a clinical internship in clinical neuropsychology and dementia clinical research at Rhode Island Hospital through the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, followed by research postdoctoral fellowships in the National Center for PTSD and the Translational Research Center for TBI and Stress Disorders at the VA Boston Healthcare System. After completing postdoctoral training, Colleen assumed a staff neuropsychologist position at the VA Boston Healthcare System, where she was involved in direct clinical care, clinical supervision/mentorship, and research. Colleen served as the Chief of the Neuropsychology Clinic in the Department of Neurology at Boston Medical Center prior to establishing her private practice in 2022. Colleen conducts clinical neuropsychological evaluations with adults presenting with cognitive concerns associated with neurodevelopmental disorders, neurodegenerative conditions, acquired brain injuries, substance use, and psychiatric conditions. Colleen approaches clinical care with a tailored focus on the client’s cognitive and psychological needs, individual strengths, and personal values.

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Dr. Sera Lavelle has a unique perspective on therapy and technology, specifically artificial intelligence (AI). Dr. Lavelle, owner of New York Health and Hypnosis and Integrative Therapy and founder of Bea Better Eating, shares insights on how AI has influenced her practice and discusses the pros and cons. Dr. Lavelle talks about the various apps designed to teach about mindful eating and other disorders. She explains the different components in her guided hypnotherapy recordings as knowledge, motivation, and meditation. Get inspired and learn about different therapy techniques today.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[1:21] Dr. Lavelle talks about the pros and cons of using AI in therapy
[3:00] Dr. Lavelle explains what a therapy app is
[6:29] Dr. Lavelle shares information about the Bea Better Eating app she is launching
[9:51] Dr. Lavelle explains how Ericksonian hypnotherapy recordings work
[14:19] Dr. Lavelle explains how she got interested in Hypnotherapy, AI, and other technical tools for supporting her therapeutic work
[16:57] Dr. Lavelle talks about the similarities between hypnotherapy and meditation
[19:47] Dr. Lavelle says that hypnosis can be very valuable and not to fear AI

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

[2:55] There are many types of therapy apps online; however, the consumer needs to know who produced the apps and whether they are a licensed therapist.
[9:30] Meditation apps designed by a team of psychologists can be helpful for guided hypnotherapy recordings.
[12:37] Does Oxytocin work, or is there a better option? Dr. Sera Lavelle shares her unique perspective on this topic and how therapy and technology, specifically online apps, can help.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

NY Health Hypnosis - Website

Bea Better Eating - Website

BIOGRAPHY:

Dr. Sera Lavelle owns NY Health Hypnosis & Integrative Therapy and co-founded Bea Better Eating. She harbors a deep enthusiasm for the convergence of psychology and technology, driven by a vision to leverage AI to positively reshape the mental health domain. Her contributions have been recognized in reputable publications such as Forbes, Elle Magazine, and Allure. Through a mix of conscious and unconscious techniques, she has guided hundreds to overcome their challenges, propelling them toward a brighter future. A special focus of hers is aiding those wrestling with food-related issues. She believes that by healing this aspect of life, significant progress can be achieved in other areas.

Dr. Lavelle believes that merging psychology and technology can make mental health resources more within reach. While the irreplaceable value of in-person consultations with human psychologists is undeniable, as is the significance of human touch, it's a fact that they can't be omnipresent. By offering persistent access to ongoing self-help and psychological enrichment in an intelligent manner, we can bolster the efficacy of in-person sessions. This allows individuals to actively employ newfound strategies to foster change in the intervals between meetings.

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She-Rae Chen, the CEO and visionary behind SpringSpot, introduces comprehensive health principles to steer your family toward a balanced mental and physical lifestyle. In today's discussion, she elaborates on the structured framework that guides parents, children, and families in fostering a positive and healthy perspective on their well-being. SpringSpot was born to aid busy families like yours by providing wholesome activities for children and supporting parents in prioritizing self-care. Join Arden and She-Rae as they delve into the mind-body connection, healthy eating and sleeping habits, and alternatives to screen-centric activities for children. Take advantage of the insights shared in this Beyond the Balance Sheet episode.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[1:32] She-Rae discusses her professional background and the health scare she experienced
[4:44] SpringSpot was born from the idea that parents don’t have time to take care of themselves and their families
[6:27] Parents' long work hours and devices contribute to a breakdown in family time
[8:03] She-Rae explains how F.R.A.M.E.S works
[11:40] She-Rae makes suggestions on how to implement these pillars in your home
[20:30] Discussion regarding the importance of art and creativity
[25:33] Discussion regarding scheduling and emotional regulation
[29:45] Answering a kid's hard questions

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

[3:13] A health scare can make you reassess your life and priorities. She credits her second chance at life as the motivation to begin self-care.
[6:23] Families face new challenges in today’s busy lifestyle they did not meet in the past.
[8:19] Springspot is founded on the acronym FRAME, each letter representing a holistic health pillar.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

SpringSpot - Website - http://www.springspot.co

BIOGRAPHY:

She-Rae Chen is the founder & CEO of SpringSpot. As a former NCAA Division I gymnast, she later juggled marriage, kids, and a full-time job. Balancing work, parenting, and household duties left little room for exercise and self-care. This struggle led her to create SpringSpot, aiming to empower families to prioritize health without sacrificing their own well-being or their children's.

Before SpringSpot, she held tech leadership roles at Apple and Amazon, spearheading digital media, mobile, and health innovations. She holds degrees from Stanford University and Harvard Business School and is a certified RYT-200 yoga instructor, ACSM-CPT certified personal trainer, and PN1 certified nutrition coach.

She lives in the Bay Area with her husband and three young kids: two boys and a baby girl. In her free time, she enjoys playing tennis, swimming, practicing yoga, and being active outdoors with her family and friends.

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Jeff Johnston experienced the loss of his oldest son to Fentanyl poisoning in October 2016 and tragically lost his wife to alcoholism in 2021. Since then, he has dedicated himself to making a difference in mental health. In this edition of Beyond the Balance Sheet, Jeff shares his compelling story of a tragic death, substance use, and his path to recovery. His objective is to change the narrative around substance use and end the stigma. For individuals who are struggling, those who have lost loved ones, and those who are navigating the deep waters of substance use, there is help available. Don’t miss this powerful story.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[1:37] Jeff shares the beginning of his journey of tragedy, substance use, and death
[4:03] Jeff admits to being an alcoholic, how he quit, and how it took his wife's life
[7:22] Jeff considers suicide
[10:04] Jeff describes how he empowers youth to work on their mental health and the Gen Z advisory board
[12:20] Jeff shares how he encourages his granddaughter when she has a bad day
[15:37] Jeff admits to having two psychedelic experiences and discusses the effects
[17:50 What is negative visualization?
[19:56] Jeff describes his passion for Living Undeterred and what he is willing to do to see it survive

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

October 4, 2016 changed Jeff Johnston’s life forever. He and his wife lost their son to Fentanyl poisoning.
Jeff had a successful investment business and was on top of the world. Then his son, Seth, dies from Fentanyl poisoning, and Jeff’s secret life of alcoholism and gambling is exposed.
Jeff describes his journey from alcohol to gratitude. Making a sudden decision to stop drinking, he has dedicated his days to meditation and hosting a podcast focused on aiding individuals struggling with alcohol or substance use and those seeking to improve their mental well-being.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

Brightn Your Life

Living Undeterred: Home

Jeff on Twitter: "Never changes" / Twitter

Brightn - Facebook

Brightn - Instagram

Living Undeterred - Podcast

Jeffrey Johnston - LinkedIn

This One's For You: Sophia, Eleni, Sophia, Eleni - Amazon.com

BIOGRAPHY: Jeff Johnston

On October 4, 2016, the trajectory of Jeff’s life changed with one phone call. Prior to that day, Jeff was living the American Dream. He had a great family, was a successful entrepreneur running a financial services firm in Iowa, and was seemingly coasting through life. On the morning of October 4, 2016, Jeff received the phone call that is every parent’s worst nightmare. His oldest son, Seth, had died from fentanyl poisoning. He was 23 years old.

Jeff soon realized that he had two options. He could go down a road of anger and despair and become bitter, or he could use his situation as motivation to become better. He chose the latter. Jeff decided to take a step back from his career as a financial advisor and focus his attention on making a difference. He became an advocate for bringing awareness to substance use and addiction in teens & young adults. He began speaking at high schools and community events and joined the board of a local treatment facility that Seth spent time at before his death.

In 2020, Jeff founded a non-profit, the Living Undeterred Project, to change the narrative on mental health & substance use disorder. That same year, he wrote his first book, “This One’s For You: An Inspirational Journey Through Addiction, Death, and Meaning,” and started the Living Undeterred Podcast. In 2021, the project got even more personal for Jeff when he lost his wife, Prudence, to alcoholism. He is currently working on a new mental health project, Brightn, geared toward Gen Z.

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Wealth advisors are continually nudged into broader elements of their client's lives. It’s up to these financial advisors to fulfill the role in addressing many situations, which helps them build a solid financial plan encompassing all aspects of their client's lives. In this revisited episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, Michael Conway, founder and CEO of Conway Wealth Group, and Zach Conway, Managing Director of Conway Wealth, join Arden and Diana to explain how they are supporting their clients' wealth in what matters. Michael and Zach discuss establishing a level of trust with their clients and initiating conversations about the non-financial issues in their lives. Finally, as our society becomes more open to discussing mental health, they address the changes they are experiencing in conversations with their clients.

In This Episode:

[01:36] The different ways Conway Wealth Group is addressing the multiple needs of their clients' families. [04:22] Defining wealth differently - adding emotional and psychological components to defining wealth as well. [06:49] Building a level of trust with a financial advisor to be able to openly communicate about more aspects in their lives besides just money, as those circumstances can play a role in their financial plan. [12:13] The percentage of communication they have with clients about health and life satisfaction as opposed to financial matters of market and investment advice. [16:11] As a culture moving towards more discussions on mental health, do Michael and Zach notice if clients are more willingly open to them as well? [19:56] Is there ever a client that may be too complicated to take on?

Key Takeaways:

Broadening the term “financial advisor” by discussing all aspects of a client's life - topics ranging from health to personal relationships. Understanding that wealth is not only measured in how much money a client has, but also measured by emotional and psychological components in that client's life as well. Starting a conversation by proactively bringing up issues a client may be putting off in their lives and addressing those issues, showing that addressing those issues may actually play a role in their financial plan. An overwhelming amount of financial advisors now agree that advising on non-financial issues is extremely important. Society has started to become more open about mental health discussions - how this has changed the interactions Conway Wealth Group has with their clients.

Bio:

Michael Conway, CFP®, ChFC® is founder and CEO of Conway Wealth Group, a premier, independent financial planning and advisory firm. As a successful and well-respected financial advisor, Michael has spent more than 30 years providing specialized solutions that blend financial and estate planning strategies with open architecture investment management. By steering clients toward Aligning Life & Wealth®, Conway Wealth quantifies not just investment gains, but gains in the categories of life that actually create lasting happiness.

Michael is also the co-founder of the Life & Wealth Network, a platform for advisors to deliver exceptional professional resources to clients in the parts of life that matter most, and the co-founder and chairman of Seeds, a platform for advisors to deliver truly customized investment portfolios that align personal values with financial goals.

Michael is frequently looked to as an expert in financial news media, and has been featured in various publications, including Barron’s, the Wall Street Journal, and Investment News, among others. He was also named one of the 100 Most Influential Advisors by Investopedia.

Zach Conway is the Managing Director of Conway Wealth, a private wealth advisory firm focused on leading families toward aligning life and wealth. Zach is also the co-founder and CEO of Seeds, a tech-enabled asset management platform that empowers advisors to deliver portfolios that align financial goals and personal values. He also co-founded the Life & Wealth Network, a platform designed to give advisors the tools and professional solutions to help clients live a life beyond the numbers.

Zach also writes for Forbes.com and has been featured in various publications, including Barron's, InvestmentNews, and others.

Links Mentioned: https://www.conwaywealthgroup.com

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We're thrilled to have Haley Moss join us on this edition of Beyond the Balance Sheet. Haley, the first neurodiverse attorney in Florida, has been a dedicated advocate for individuals with disabilities since the age of 13. Her early diagnosis of autism provides her with a distinctive viewpoint, and she openly shares her personal experience. Haley discusses the “myth of independence” and how autism is like speaking another language. Tune in to gain insight into how she perceives the world through the unique lens of autism.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[1:34] Haley explains how she became a disability advocate at a young age
[4:35] Haley describes her childhood
[7:10] What is the myth of independence?
[9:33] Why is autism like speaking another language?
[11:58] What made Haley want to go to law school? Example of why she chose to work in the field of law she chose?
[15:13] How does Haley describe her uphill battles and her wish that the public was more aware of how the disabled feel?
[19:51] Haley explains the way she wants people to validate her feelings
[22:56] What is the luxury of being average?

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

[1:18] Haley Moss explains how being a neurodiverse attorney took on a life of its own.
[6:48] Haley discusses what she means by “the myth of independence.
[9:33] Can autism be like speaking another language?

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

Haley Moss - Website

Haley Moss - YouTube

BIOGRAPHY:

Haley Moss is a lawyer, neurodiversity expert, and the author of four books that guide neurodivergent individuals through professional and personal challenges. She is a speaker and consultant to top corporations and organizations seeking guidance in creating an inclusive workplace and a sought-after commentator on disability rights issues. The first openly autistic lawyer in Florida, Haley’s books include “Great Minds Think Differently: Neurodiversity for Lawyers and Other Professionals'' (ABA Book Publishing; June 2021) and “The Young Autistic Adult’s Independence Handbook” (Jessica Kingsley Publishers; November 2021). Her articles have appeared in the Washington Post, Teen Vogue, and Fast Company.

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Futures Recovery Health provides high-quality mental health services, including a program for the wealthy, on a 10-acre property in Tequesta, Florida. In this episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, CEO Mike Holloway explains the origins of this family-owned enterprise and the reasons behind its out-of-network model. Mike describes the facility, the factors that make it a premier mental health facility choice, the care provided, and the importance of family involvement. If you or someone you know is suffering from a mental health disorder, this episode is for you.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[1:41] Mike describes his roles in his different family ventures [4:40] Mike shares the conception of Futures Recovery Health [8:03] Mike discusses private pay versus network-based insurance [12:07] Mike talks about serving affluent families and getting them to own their recovery [19:46] What happens at intake throughout the program [22:46] Breaking down the stigma of mental health and new programming provided through Futures other ventures [28:47] Mike challenges listeners to keep an open mind on new approaches to mental health care

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

[11:29] Futures provides an array of amenities not generally provided by a network-based insurance model. [17:29] Securing the support and agreement of the patient's family is crucial. [20:26] A primary case manager and therapist will be with the patient during their entire stay at Futures Recovery Health.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

Futures Recovery Healthcare - Website

BIOGRAPHY:

Michael Holloway currently serves as the President of GMH Ventures, the alternative investment arm of GMH Associates, Inc. GMH Associates was founded in 1985 by his father, Gary Holloway, Sr., and is the parent company for GMH Ventures and GMH Communities, a fully integrated commercial real estate company led by his brother, Gary Holloway, Jr. Michael helped start GMH Ventures in 2008, with Dennis O’Leary and became President upon Dennis’ retirement in 2016. Since its inception, GMH Ventures has made investments in various strategies and companies, including the likes of Security Networks, GMH Mortgage Services, Dynamic Healthcare Services, US Auto & Home, Kinetiq, Spirence, and Futures Recovery Healthcare. Michael also currently operates as Chief Executive Officer of Futures Recovery Healthcare. Futures is an accredited, dual-licensed behavioral healthcare provider in Tequesta, FL. They offer multiple pathways to recovery for primary mental health and primary addiction with co-occurring mental health diagnoses through evidence-based medicine and research, compassionate alliance, and individualized care. Specializing in treatment for behavioral health, including trauma and chronic pain for adults, Futures uses a holistic approach that integrates somatic medicine, psychotherapies, and physical therapy & wellness services. Michael brings financial and operational experience and strong leadership capabilities to the team at Futures. His strategic guidance, unwavering commitment to ethics, and family-centric values have propelled Futures to its reputation as a trusted provider, successfully attracting and retaining the industry’s top talent. Michael’s collaborative approach in working with his team has allowed Futures to anticipate the ever-changing need in behavioral healthcare, which has led to innovative programming and interventions for clinical practice that exceed industry standards.

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When an older adult needs to sell their home, they should seek out a real estate agent holding a Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES) designation. In the latest episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, Adam Hayes, owner of Milestones Realty, explains the benefits of engaging an agent holding the SRES distinction. He also sheds light on the challenges older adults might overlook in today's real estate market. If you are considering selling your home, this is an essential episode you won’t want to miss.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[2:04] Adam describes the difference between a Realtor and a Seniors Real Estate Specialist
[7:59] Adam compares a home to a family member
[9:33] Why older adults need help navigating the real estate market
[14:12] How AI can play a role in deceiving a seller
[21:50] Adam discusses knowing who the decision-maker is
[24:20] Additional ways to protect your client
[29:38] There needs to be a good relationship between the agent and the owner, and getting a qualified agent
[34:29] What Adam has learned over the years

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

[20:01] Bad actors can steal items from a listed home if an agent is not careful what pictures they include in a listing
[22:12] You must find out who the decision-maker is at the onset of the listing process
[24:44] Pay special attention to the signage used on vehicles coming to the home. Those signs may alert bad actors.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

Milestones Realty - Website

Milestones Realty - Facebook

Adam Hayes - LinkedIn

Adam Hayes - Twitter

BIOGRAPHY:

Adam Hayes has been a Seniors Real Estate Specialist ® since 2008 and the Broker-Owner of Milestones Realty. Founded in 2009, Milestones is a trusted resource for many Elder Law Attorneys. It occupies an unexpected space among real estate brokerages as they focus on serving and advocating for Older Adults and Special Needs Clients.

The genesis for Milestones was the unpleasant experience of rescuing my Dad from an unsafe living situation in 2001. Little did I know that my negotiating and people skills would be demanded just for the seemingly simple act of moving Dad into a Skilled Nursing Facility.

My wife and I spent three months and several thousand driving- miles dealing with concerns, repairs, clean-outs, and other assorted loose ends. Years later, I thought, I’d been in training my whole adult life for that Olympian task, and nothing truly prepared me for the energy drain of helping him.

I bring an “insider’s empathy” to the equation and meet clients where they are emotionally and physically with unwavering respect for their tolerances and abilities.

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Larry Sprung, founder of Mitlin Financial, dedicates his free time to raising awareness around mental health and suicide. He dedicated more than 12 years to serving on the National Board of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). In this impactful episode, Larry will share why this cause is close to his heart and provide guidance on supporting a friend or loved one dealing with depression. Addressing suicide can be challenging but shouldn't be sidestepped. This episode is a valuable resource for those affected by these issues.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[2:10] Larry sites his own life and background as making him uniquely qualified to serve families both financially and with mental health awareness
[3:51] Larry shares his family history
[6:52] The stories of why individuals commit suicide
[9:08] Larry explains why conversations with those who struggle may save their lives
[14:10] Larry suggests a resource to listeners who have been inspired by listening to this podcast and invites people who struggle to do the “walk”
[16:45] Larry describes what brings him joy

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

With medication, it is possible to prevent suicide, and individuals can lead long and productive lives after making an attempt.

Daily self-reflection of joyful moments is good for the soul as you relive those moments.

You can be there for an individual, even by telephone, to walk people through difficulties and support them with a conversation on the phone when you can’t be present.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

Family Wealth Report - Website

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention - Website

Mitlin Financial, Inc

BIOGRAPHY:

Lawrence “Larry” Sprung, CFP®, is a husband, father, entrepreneur, author, and mental health advocate.

In 2004, he founded Mitlin Financial, Inc., naming the firm memory of Larry’s wife’s grandfather, Mitchell, and his mother, Linda. During his career, Larry has found that many industry terms and concepts can seem confusing to outsiders. That’s why he works with the families he serves to break down complex financial topics into easy-to-understand concepts.

Larry is the author of the Amazon Bestselling book “Financial Planning Made Personal” and the host of the Mitlin Money Mindset™, a podcast that reminds you to ask yourself, “What did you do today that brought you joy?®.”

In recognition of Larry’s significant contributions to his profession, he has received several awards. In 2021, Larry was named to the Investopedia 100 Top Advisors 2021 and was even more humbled to make their Top Ten list for 2022.

Outside the office, one of Larry’s greatest passions is raising awareness for mental health. He spent over 12 years serving on the National Board of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) and sits on its financial and investment committees. With his wife, Denise, he has raised more than $1.7 million for the organization through the Keith Milano Memorial Fund. The fund was created in memory of his brother-in-law.

Larry values his family tremendously, and his desire to do right by his wife and two sons drives him in and out of the office.

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In this revisited episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, we are joined by Nicholas MacPhee, an active philanthropist who has worked in nonprofits for over 20 years. First, Nick explains how he started working in the field of philanthropy with mental and behavioral health. Mental health resources and support services are needed now more than ever; Nick describes how he finds exemplary philanthropists to invest in innovative and unique companies. Tune in as Nick speaks about the importance of scale in philanthropy and why this generation is more active in philanthropic activities.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:00] How Nick started working in the field of philanthropy with mental and behavioral health.
[07:15] Resources and support services are crucially important now more than ever. Nick explains how he finds philanthropists to invest.
[13:10] Nick speaks about the importance of scale in philanthropy and reveals some of the edgier investments he's seen from large-scale foundations.
[20:00] Why this generation is more active in philanthropic activities.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Americans are becoming more open about mental health, and young generations understand the importance of philanthropic activities that support mental health concerns.
Often as a philanthropist, it’s easier to donate to your local university or to local nonprofits that are using innovative approaches.
More philanthropists are always welcome in the world: bring in your expertise, bring in your curiosity, and bring in your money.
Thanks to research, you can now intervene earlier when somebody is starting to show some symptoms of mental health decline. For instance, the onset of depression may occur eight years before significant interventions are necessary.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Website

https://www.interesttoimpact.com

Podcast

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/interest-to-impact/id1549724431

Twitter

https://twitter.com/interest2impact

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-macphee-interest2impact/

BIO:

Nick MacPhee has been an active philanthropist and worked in non-profits for over 20 years. A former V.P at Microsoft, he spent 20 years in the business sector. After leaving Microsoft, he helped start a mentoring program for at-risk youth, worked at two family foundations, and served on many boards. He's currently on the Boards of Eisenhower Medical Center in California and Pioneer Human Services in Washington. With his wife who is a family therapist, he co-founded the Behavioral Health Roundtable, a learning forum for philanthropists on mental health issues and solutions.

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When a patient finds out they are terminally ill, with less than six months to live, they may choose Medical Aid in Dying in certain states. In this revisited episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, Dr. Robin Plumer talks to us about what Medical Aid in Dying is and how patients decide to pursue it. Dr. Robin Plumer says her job is like “a midwife to dying.” She discusses the circumstances where it is performed and the loving environment it can create. Tune in today to learn more about how Medical Aid in Dying works and what states allow this course of action.

IN THIS EPISODE

[1:51] How did Dr. Robin Plumer’s experience in New Zealand impact her work today? [3:37] What is Medical Aid in Dying? [4:40] How is Medical Aid in Dying different from suicide? [8:50] What is the partnership between Hospice and the Medical Aid in Dying doctor? [12:19] What is the personality type of people who choose Medical Aid in Dying? [15:56] What is Dr. Robin Plumer’s role in Medical Aid in Dying? [18:11] Is MAID supported in the United States? [19:51] Does insurance cover this? [20:47] Can Medical Aid in Dying be done for those with dementia? [22:56] How does Hospice approach the subject of Medical Aid in Dying with patients?

KEY TAKEAWAYS

For Medical Aid in Dying, the patient must self-administer the medicine. A doctor can go to the patient's home and mix the medication, but the patient has to drink it or use a syringe to administer it. Medical Aid in Dying allows people to say goodbye to the people they love in their homes, listen to their favorite music, and pass peacefully. It is a loving and intense environment. It’s a natural way of dying and is not highly-medicalized.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

Compassionate Endings N.J. Website

BIO: Dr. Robin Plumer has practiced emergency medicine for over 30 years. In 2008, she went to New Zealand to live and work. She continued to work in emergency medicine, but also followed her interest in end-of-life care while working in several hospices and completing a postgraduate diploma in Hospice and Palliative Medicine at the University of Auckland. In 2017, she returned to the US to help care for her father, who had Parkinson’s disease. She worked in both inpatient and community hospices in New Jersey for three years and became interested in the passage of NJ’s medical aid in dying (MAID) law. Realizing that few clinicians were participating in the law, she decided to pursue intensive study in the field and collaborated with experienced MAID clinicians in California, Washington State, and Oregon. In July 2020, she started a practice called “Compassionate Endings NJ” with a former nurse colleague who shares her passion for very personalized and comprehensive patient care. Since starting their practice, they have attended many MAID deaths, and have become proficient in managing special situations. Part of their mission is to encourage those in the medical community who wish to become involved in MAID by mentoring and teaching.

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Gary Mendell is the founder and CEO of Shatterproof, a national nonprofit focused on reversing the addiction crisis in America. Gary’s son, Brian, tried drugs and alcohol which ultimately led to addiction. Unfortunately, Brian died of this addiction disease that affects more than 22 million Americans every day. Gary discusses the warning signs that families should look out for, when worried if their child may be using substances. Tune in to this revisited episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet as Gary talks all about Shatterproof and how they are changing the country’s consciousness around addiction.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:25] Gary shares his journey and his experience as a family with his son.
[07:20] Advice Gary gives families who are worried about their children using substances.
[16:45] How financial resources can help or hinder the process of recovering from addiction.
[21:20] Shatterproof is looking to help people with substance use disorder get the chance to find recovery.
[24:10] How the field of recovery will look in the future.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Addiction is a treatable chronic illness. Every person with a substance use disorder deserves the chance to find recovery.
There were more than 93,000 fatal overdoses in 2020.
80% of people say they don’t want a friend, colleague, or neighbor with addiction. We need to reverse the shame around addiction.
Addiction is not a moral failing; you need to get the facts about this misunderstood medical condition.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Website

https://www.shatterproof.org

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/ShatterproofHQ/

https://linktr.ee/shatterproof

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/weareshatterproof

Twitter

https://twitter.com/ShatterproofHQ

BIO:

Gary Mendell is the founder and CEO of Shatterproof, a national nonprofit focused on reversing the course of the addiction crisis in America. After losing his son Brian to addiction in 2011, Gary founded Shatterproof to spare other families the tragedy his had suffered. Since founding Shatterproof in 2012, Mr. Mendell has been a national leader in the addiction space creating solutions that will create more access to treatment for Opioid and Substance Use Disorders including the creation of the Shatterproof National Principles of Care to guide providers, payers, and patients to quality treatment. He advocates for state and federal policy changes, and most recently launched a national strategy and call to action to address stigma related to Opioid and Substance Use Disorders.

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Jay Bacrania, CEO and Co-Founder of Signet Education LLC, and Sheila Akbar, Signet's President and COO, are guests on this week’s revisited episode. Signet helps students and parents develop skills they will need to overcome challenges and empower students to make successful decisions in college. Jay and Sheila explain how parents can navigate engagement with their child who has difficulty with executive functioning challenges. In addition, they discuss the importance of having healthy boundaries during the college admissions process. Tune in as Jay and Sheila give their thoughts on the challenges of working with affluent families and the massive need for executive function support and structure during the pandemic.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:30] About Jay Bacrania and Sheila Akbar. They speak about the inspiration for Signet and how their vision has evolved.
[09:10] How to engage a student who is having difficulty with executive functioning challenges.
[15:50] Parents need to have healthy boundaries when it comes to the college admissions process.
[20:50] There is a tremendous rise in mental health issues during the pandemic. Executive function support and structure are needed now more than ever.
[30:00] The challenges of working with affluent families.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Students should create a habit of reflection and self-understanding that will allow them to build a foundation for academic success.
Parents should create the space for students to feel safe in exploring some solutions for their academic challenges.
Students don’t need to know what to do; instead, they need to know how to think.
Parents and students shouldn't be worried about the reputation of a college. Instead, they need to consider which college will allow students to become the person they want to become.

LINKS MENTIONED

Website

https://signeteducation.com/

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/SignetEducation/

BIO:

Jay Bacrania

Jay is the CEO and Co-Founder of Signet Education LLC. His passion for education began in high school and continued throughout college, during which time he ran three different tutoring and mentoring organizations. After graduating from Harvard in 2005, Jay began tutoring privately, and eventually co-founded Signet Education with a friend, with the idea that they could build a company that was focused less on jumping through hoops, and more on genuine education.

Signet Education is built on the premise that each student is on a unique educational journey. That journey is external -- doing well in school, finding the right college, and getting in; but it’s also internal -- understanding oneself better, building skills to be effective in the classroom and in life, developing a love of learning, and using education to navigate to a place in the world where one can define and build a meaningful and successful life.

Over the last 15 years, Jay and Sheila have worked together to build a world-class organization that works with students in a highly personalized way to help them define their academic path--both external and internal--and achieve their goals, setting themselves up for a successful and meaningful life.

Sheila Akbar

Sheila is Signet's President and COO and our resident admissions and test prep expert. She joined the Signet team in 2010, bringing with her a wealth of experience teaching SAT, ACT, GRE, literature, and composition in both one-on-one and classroom settings. Sheila loves both teaching and learning, and finds nothing more rewarding than working closely with students to overcome the challenges they face.

After graduating from Harvard in 2002, she spent two years working in financial services before continuing her academic career, which culminated in two doctorates. She brings her significant business and academic experience to bear on her current role at Signet, which includes managing the administrative team, speaking to every incoming client to match them with the right tutors and services, and providing educational thought leadership for the company. Sheila holds a bachelor's degree and master's degree from Harvard University and two doctoral degrees from Indiana University.

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If you're part of a multi-generational family business or acquainted with someone in such a situation, this episode is tailor-made for you. Cindy Adams Harrison, a seasoned performance coach, specializes in helping families navigate the complexities of succession planning and helping them achieve success. Her extensive experience, initially honed as a sports performance coach, smoothly transitions into family business planning. Cindy possesses a wealth of insight to address this vital topic and generously shares her past successes in the field.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:10] Cindy explains what a performance coach is and how it can be helpful to any athlete
[05:03] Cindy discusses intrinsic motivation versus external forces and parents who live vicariously through their child
[10:32] Cindy discusses being involved with family businesses and how her sports consulting background was relevant
[12:26] Examples of generational family succession successes.
[19:51] Cindy addresses the owner issues and the loss associated with the transition; she never uses the word retirement
[22:09] Cindy shares an example of a 5-generation family business that passed on succession correctly
[24:45] Cindy wouldn’t change a thing in her life

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

The mental side of a sport is as important as the physical side.
Family members in a generational business should plan for succession long before it becomes necessary.
A successful family succession plan takes work because so many different emotions are involved.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

Family Wealth Report - Website

BIOGRAPHY:

Cynthia Adams Harrison, Ed. D., LICSW, is an expert performance consultant specializing in enhancing performance in business and sport. She brings her unique experience using performance metrics borrowed from sports performance and applies these powerful techniques and practices to business. She was responsible for launching The Center for Family and Privately Held Businesses at Silver Bridge Advisors, a wealth management firm. She served as Managing Director and Director of Talent Development and advisor to The Silver Bridge Institute, an educational platform for the firm. Dr. Adams Harrison was an associate consultant for Genus Resources, LLC, a highly successful family enterprise consulting firm for twelve years, specializing in enhancing business and executive performance. She works extensively with business owners, executives, and their organizations in an array of areas, including succession, corporate and family governance, balancing family dynamics and wealth preservation, leadership development, organizational effectiveness, conflict resolution, innovative business solutions, change management, and performance coaching for executives. Her clients range in revenues from $5 million to more than $1 billion, with many operating globally. Dr. Adams Harrison assists elite athletes as they transition into professional sports on sudden wealth dynamics, lifestyle management, injury and recovery, and mental training techniques necessary to achieve and maintain success at the professional level.

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Michelle Dickinson has had a challenging life but has used her experiences to become a source of inspiration and support for others dealing with bipolar disorder, depression, and victimization. Her journey from growing up with a bipolar mother to overcoming depression after a divorce is undoubtedly a testament to her resilience and determination. Michelle’s story provides a safe place for those persevering through a difficult journey.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:30] Michelle tells her story of growing up with a bipolar mother
[04:04] Michelle explains how her background informs what she does
[05:43] Michelle discusses the word resilience and the tools she uses to help clients
[09:00] She explains why her book was called Breaking Into My Life
[11:39] Michelle talks about being the victim
[14:19] Michelle advises listeners to ask questions that can help define them and put them in the right direction

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Michelle provides a safe place for people to share their deepest secrets.
If you live as a victim, you hold onto that identity and don’t move forward, and you don’t take ownership of your life.
If you approach an issue with the mindset that there is something to gain and learn from, it's easier to navigate challenges that come your way.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

Michelle Dickinson - Website

Ted Talk - YouTube

Breaking Into My Life Book Trailer - YouTube

The Book: Breaking Into My Life

BIOGRAPHY:

Michelle is a Resilience Visionary, Workplace Resilience Coach, TED speaker, and bestselling author. She revolutionizes mental health by championing emotional well-being, self-reliance, and personal mastery. Through captivating storytelling and practical strategies, she empowers individuals to recognize their power and lead fulfilling lives. Michelle's influence extends to education, Fortune 500 companies, and first responders, transforming workplaces, schools, and emergency facilities into resilience incubators. She inspires a movement of resilience and challenges traditional leadership paradigms, guiding individuals to uncover their potential.

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Today, Steven Wolt is on a mission to support men dealing with sexual addiction. His life turned downward when he became ensnared by pornography, which ultimately resulted in the loss of his job. Presently, Steven is on the road to long-term recovery and has established Valor Recovery to aid other men grappling with this addiction. Engaging with a community of men who openly share their experiences has proven beneficial in helping many individuals address their feelings of shame. Steven's counsel is straightforward: Don't endure this struggle in isolation; resources are available to overcome these challenges.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:14] Steven talks about his mission to shine a light on sexual addiction and how he started on this journey
[04:05] Steven compares his sexual addiction to cocaine and how he spiraled out of control
[07:37] Steven lost his career and ultimately lost everything before he began to work on his addiction
[09:44] Admitting he used cocaine did not have the shame that his sexual addiction did
[11:10] Valor Recovery meets men where they are, and they have safety in discussing their addiction. How a husband’s watching pornography affects his wife
[14:32] Steven shares the three parts of how he reached recovery
[17:33] The worst thing that happened to Steven was the best thing that happened to him

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Watching porn can be habit-forming.
When the Internet became available in the privacy of one’s home, watching pornography was easy, and sexual addiction became pervasive.
There is help available for men who want help with this issue.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

Valor Recovery Coaching

BIOGRAPHY:

Steven Wolt is an influential healthcare entrepreneur with a passion for breaking down barriers, reducing stigma, and improving behavioral health outcomes. He is a leader with the superpowers of vulnerability and courage and inspires others with his mental health journey.

In July of 2023, Steven founded Valor Recovery, a specialized recovery coaching program for men to overcome compulsive sexual behaviors, porn abuse, and intimacy issues. Valor Recovery is a peer-based recovery support system that significantly improves outcomes and enhances the effectiveness of clinical care and treatment. Valor Recovery certified and credentialed coaches are in long-term sexual recovery. The strength and uniqueness of this program are these shared life experiences that help to create psychological safety, empathy, and meaningful connection that significantly enhance the client's recovery journey.

In 2017, Steven founded Veritus, the nation's first telehealth intensive outpatient program for substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health. Veritus had a program specifically for licensed healthcare professionals, primarily physicians and nurses, and another program specifically for lawyers and judges. From an idea of a piece of paper long before COVID, to partnering with one of the nation's oldest and most prestigious treatment providers, Freedom Institute, Veritus helped to eliminate the barriers many licensed professionals experience from getting the help they need.

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This episode is very personal and special for Arden. She is joined by Gail Sexton Anderson and Gloria Li from Donor Concierge, and together, they explore the invaluable services offered to women aspiring to become mothers. Donor Concierge has played a pivotal role in bringing countless families into existence by serving as dedicated advocates. They collaborate with many agencies involved in sperm and egg donation and surrogacy. This intricate and sensitive process is a remarkable journey of creation. Anyone interested in parenthood or donation will find this episode enlightening and informative.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:18] Gail explains why she founded Donor Concierge, and Gloria shares how she became involved
[03:36] Arden explains her personal story and asks what are the challenges in finding egg or sperm donors
[07:36] What are the realistic expectations of a concierge business in this field
[11:59] How Donor Concierge serves the affluent family and answers questions they may have
[17:57] Do donors do this for the money and an explanation of the process involved for intended parents
[26:09] Are some want-to-be parents excluded from the process
[29:29] Discussion of clients who are recognizable by the public or extremely wealthy families, where the field is going in the future, and being open about how your family was created

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Finding a surrogate, a sperm donor, and an egg donor is not as easy as it may sound. It is a crucial decision, and hiring experts to guide you is best.
Affluent parents have the option of a direct search program where they create a landing page to share with potential donors who they are.
Surrogacy allows you to give joy to a mother who otherwise would not have a child.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

Donor Concierge - Website

BIOGRAPHIES:

CEO & Founder

Gail has dedicated her career to helping intended parents from all walks of life build families. She founded Donor Concierge as a compassionate approach to helping intended parents sort through the gauntlet of egg donor and surrogacy options. Gail is a Harvard-trained counselor with 25 years of experience helping intended parents have the baby they always dreamed of.

After graduate school, Gail joined a research group in the Psychology Department at Yale University. Later, she joined a group of researchers in pediatric neurology at Yale New Haven Hospital doing developmental testing with children born prematurely of very low birth weight. Gail is also a graduate of Alice Domar’s Mind Body Fertility Program through Boston IVF and has served on a Radcliffe panel with other fertility experts. In her career in the fertility industry, Gail has been the Executive Director of one of the leading surrogacy agencies and helped start two different egg donor agencies. Gail is an empathic listener who brings a calming influence to what can often be an emotionally stressful process.

A frequent speaker at fertility conferences, Gail consults with organizations creating fertility service programs. She is a former board member of SEEDS, The Society for Ethics in Egg Donation and Surrogacy, and the Co-Founder of TULIP, a new online platform for third-party fertility. Married since 1984 with two wonderful children, Gail says having the privilege of being a mother has ignited her passion for helping others experience the joy of parenting.

Gloria Li, BA, PMP

Executive Director

Gloria is responsible for managing the Donor Concierge, overseeing all aspects of the company. Gloria has worked in fertility since 2013 and is an expert on egg donation, gestational surrogacy, and fertility care management. Her vision, passion for the mission, and attention to detail have set a high mark in our commitment to excellence, and her leadership has helped Donor Concierge become the premier resource for intended parents worldwide.

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Jeff Grant possesses an intriguing narrative that he candidly recounts. His journey began with opioid addiction and culminated in him borrowing funds from clients' accounts, leading to his incarceration. Jeff underwent a transformative experience, earning his Master of Divinity degree and successfully reinstating his law license. He now serves as the visionary behind Progressive Prison Ministries and GrantLaw, which is dedicated to aiding individuals convicted of white-collar offenses by providing them with moral support and defense. This episode will be one of your favorites.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:27] Jeff shares his background story from being a successful lawyer to drug addiction and hopelessness ending in attempted suicide
[04:21] Would white-collar crime still have been manifested if it were not for drug addiction? Jeff discusses the motivations of people within the Progressive Prison Ministries
[08:16] Arden asks if financial institutions unintentionally reward people with values that lead them down a white-collar path
[11:45] Jeff discusses life before and after crime and how families cope with life after white-collar crime
[18:24] Jeff discusses what his family experienced and why he started GrantLaw Firm
[26:27] Jeff gives his advice to anyone who finds themselves involved in a white-collar crime scenario

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

White-collar crime brings down a lot more than just you. It brings down your family, friends, and sometimes an entire community.
Insider trading is a crime of opportunity and a lifetime sentence even after serving time.
Many marriages do not survive white-collar crime, but there is hope, and listeners can contact Jeff’s firm for advice.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

Grand Law Firm Website

BIOGRAPHY: Jeff Grant

After an addiction to prescription opioids and serving almost fourteen months in a Federal prison (2006 – 07) for a white-collar crime (SBA loan fraud) he committed in 2001, Jeff started his reentry – earning a Master of Divinity from Union Theological Seminary in the City of New York, majoring in Social Ethics. After graduating from divinity school, Jeff was called to serve at an inner city church in Bridgeport, CT as Associate Minister and Director of Prison Ministries. He then co-founded Progressive Prison Ministries, Inc. (Greenwich, CT), the world’s first ministry dedicated to serving people navigating the white-collar criminal justice system.

On May 5, 2021, Jeff’s law license was reinstated by the Supreme Court of the State of New York. On August 10, 2022, he celebrated 20 years of continuous sobriety.

Jeff has founded the law firm of GrantLaw, PLLC, is once again in private practice in New York City and is committed to using his legal expertise and life experience to benefit others.

GrantLaw, PLLC, is a new type of law firm providing private general counsel services to clients who have previously faced or who could be facing white-collar prosecutions and regulatory proceedings and their companies and families. In this role, Jeff and his team assist clients in making critical and timely business and family decisions and in executing them so that they have the best chance to come out the other side with lives of purpose, meaning and success.

“Jeff Grant is the real deal... I can’t imagine there is a lawyer in this country more qualified to consider the complex issues facing people prosecuted for white collar crimes and their families.” – Evan Osnos, Staff Writer, The New Yorker.

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Alex Dayton has an impressive history in the mental health field including serving as the Clinical Director for Freedom Institute and the Chief Clinical Officer of Veritus. In this revisited episode, he joins us today to talk about addiction treatment and recovery for licensed professionals. Because of their license, professionals like doctors, lawyers, and judges are more reluctant to seek treatment. The program offered by Veritus, which uses technology, helps to make treatment more a accessible.to this population. Listen to today’s episode as Alex talks about the correlation among addiction, wealth, and success, explains dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)T, and shares exciting trends in the mental health field.

IN THIS EPISODE

[01:46] Similarities and differences between licensed professionals and the average person getting support for substance use.
[06:22] How doctors compare to other patients in treatment
[09:54] How treatment for lawyers is specialized
[12:54] The correlation among addiction, success, and wealth
[18:21] An explanation of DBT
[23:42] Alex shares what he is looking forward to in the field in the coming years

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Technology is being used in the mental health field making treatment more accessible and offering different solutions for clients.
DBT is an effective therapy technique because it is applicable in real-time.
Doctors, lawyers, and other licensed professionals often have a hard time seeking help for substance use because they are afraid it will affect their license. Veritus and the Freedom Institute both aim to help treatment be more accessible to this population.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

Veritus Website

BIO:

Alex Dayton is a Psychotherapist in private practice and an advisor to several organizations helping to support mental healthcare programming and strategy. Alex served for several years as the Clinical Director for Freedom Institute, an outpatient treatment program located in New York City.. In addition, Alex served as the Vice President of clinical strategy and business development for Freedom Institute. Alex served as Chief Clinical Officer of Veritus, a virtual intensive outpatient program he helped launch and design to treat medical professionals, lawyers, and judges struggling with substance use disorder. Alex remains a consultant for both Freedom Institute and Veritus as a senior advisor. In addition to his Masters degree from New York University, Alex has received intensive training in DBT, and advanced practices in DBT from Marsha Linehan at Behavioral Tech. He has received training in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) from the Beck Institute, completed the Foundations in Family Therapy Program at The Ackerman Institute for The Family, and completed training in advanced practices for Motivational Interviewing from MINT. Alex completed training at Bellevue hospital and at FEGS, working with adults who have both chronic mental illness and addiction. He has worked with adults, adolescents, and children at the Brooklyn Center for Psychotherapy and on a research team at New York University conducting HIV and substance use research.

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Dana Walsh Sivak, a Falcon Rappaport & Berkman Partner and Co-Chair for the Elder Law practice group and a member of the firm's Litigation and Cannabis Law practice groups, joins Diana on the podcast today. Their discussion focuses on the treatment of the elderly and their autonomy in decision-making. Dana is passionate about safeguarding the rights of seniors, particularly concerning their usage of medically prescribed cannabis and matters of sexuality within assisted living environments. Join us for this candid and intimate conversation.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[00:33] Diane introduces Dana, and explains what the elder law encompasses
[05:23] Dana speaks to the different generational mindsets toward cannabis and her feelings about patients making choices for their lives when they are capable
[08:35] Dana explains The Compassionate Care Act and what obstacles were faced in creating the Act
[13:38] What are the rules at healthcare facilities and assisted living situations regarding cannabis
[18:49] Dana talks about lobbying Congress to get cannabis laws changed
[20:55] Sexuality among seniors in assisted living and healthcare facilities
[27:17] Promoting agency in adulthood regardless of age

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

It is patently unfair to have a child decide for their parent when the parent is perfectly capable of deciding for themselves.
Dana believes that doctors should be able to prescribe cannabis to patients in healthcare facilities and assisted living situations.
Unfortunately, patients cannot receive the medication they need because of the restrictions of Medicaid.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

Falcon Rappaport & Berkman - Website

BIOGRAPHY:

Dana Walsh Sivak is a Partner at Falcon Rappaport & Berkman LLP, and serves as Co-Chair of the firm’s Elder Law practice group, as well as a member of its Litigation and Cannabis Law practice groups.

Dana has devoted much of her career to addressing legal issues involving the elderly, including Article 81 guardianships, complex Medicaid eligibility issues, nursing home litigation, and advocating for increased access to quality-of-life initiatives for the elderly in long-term care settings. Dana works closely with her clients and their families to craft individualized long-term care plans, which include high-level Medicaid planning techniques that aim to preserve her client’s assets and income while ensuring their continuous access to excellent care.

Dana has a great deal of experience representing both individual clients and corporate healthcare facility clients on complex legal issues, allowing her to develop a unique perspective on issues facing seniors and obtain a great deal of experience assisting older New Yorkers in securing a payment source for the cost of their long-term care, often through the Medicaid program or private long-term care insurance.

For many years, Dana has worked to expand access to medical cannabis to seniors, particularly those residing in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. In December 2019, Dana helped to spearhead and present the first conference on Long Island that focused on these issues, “Cannabis & Aging: The Business, Politics, Law & Science of Cannabis,” partnering with other highly regarded professionals in the cannabis industry. Dana frequently lectures to healthcare facilities and at regional conferences about the medical benefits of cannabis in the elderly population, advocating for increased access to medical cannabis for all seniors, regardless of their socioeconomic status.

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Today, Arden hosts Dr. Jhilam Biswas, an Instructor in Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and a board-certified Adult and Forensic Psychiatrist. They discuss the connection between crime and mental illness. Dr. Biswas examines how frequently violent behavior and impaired judgment are rooted in trauma. She outlines the steps taken to evaluate the mentally ill and how, unfortunately, becoming involved in the judicial system may provide insight into the incarcerated. Don’t miss this informative episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:10] Arden introduces Dr. Jhilam Biswas and shares her background and accomplishments, and Dr. Jhilam Biswas defines forensic psychiatry
[05:58] Jhilam discusses violent behavior, impaired judgment, and trauma
[11:13] Jhilam explains the steps she would go through to evaluate a trauma victim
[16:02] The lack of awareness of a patient makes treatment more difficult
[20:54] How the rock bottom moment in the penal system can provide a respite period. Discussion of socio-economic levels as they relate to mental illness
[28:11] Jhilam shares a story of helping an individual accused of murder

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

All socioeconomic groups are affected by mental illness.
When mentally ill individuals are unaware of their disease, they are much less likely to understand they need treatment.
A traumatic brain injury can contribute to mental illness, and unfortunately, since a brain injury cannot be seen, it may be discounted by untrained professionals.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

Dr. Jhilam Biswas - LinkedIn

Dr. Jhilam Biswas - Facebook

BIOGRAPHY:

Jhilam Biswas, MD, is an Instructor in Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and board certified in Adult and Forensic Psychiatry. She is the Director of the Psychiatry, Law and Society Program at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, MA, and the Co-Director of the Harvard Mass General Brigham Forensic Psychiatry Fellowship. She is a clinician and researcher in psycho-legal issues, acute psychiatric care, and physician wellbeing, and she was awarded the Massachusetts Psychiatric Society’s Award for Outstanding Psychiatrist in Early Career in 2023 for her contributions to these areas. Her research is focused on improving mental health laws so they better serve patients and their families and caregivers. Dr. Biswas has published in JAMA, Harvard Review of Psychiatry, and the Journal of American Academy of Psychiatry and Law and has been quoted in the Boston Globe, ProPublica, CBS This Morning, Forbes, and the New York Times.

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Today, Diana hosts Robyn Brickel, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist boasting over 25 years of experience. During this episode, she will discuss the true nature of trauma and dispel any misconceptions surrounding it. Furthermore, she will delve into her three-stage trauma model, encompassing safety, stabilization, and addressing the root cause. This episode promises valuable insights into treatment methods, the dispelling of stigmas and myths, and the recognition of the significance of emotions. If you or someone you know is grappling with trauma, this is an essential listen to glean knowledge from Robyn's wealth of experience.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:21] Robyn defines trauma and how that can vary from person to person
[02:33] Robyn describes how trauma presents itself and how she works with trauma victims
[06:30] Robyn states trauma affects the entire family, and there is a mind-body connection
[09:37] Robyn’s take on personality disorders and how we all cope. Concept of building tolerance
[13:04] Addressing myths like “bad things don’t happen to wealthy people” and “lift yourself up by your bootstraps”
[16:56] Case studies that Robyn shares and techniques that she uses

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Trauma and its effects can happen to good people. Family members and friends need to be understanding.
Trauma can affect all socioeconomic levels, all religions, and all races.
Sometimes the terms people want to assign to trauma can harm the victim.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

Brickel and Associates LLC

Robyn E Brickel MA, LMFT, LLC | Alexandria VA

Brickel & Associates (@brickelandassociates) • Instagram photos and videos

Robyn Brickel (@RobynBrickel) / Twitter

Robyn Brickel - LinkedIn

BIOGRAPHY:

Robyn is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 25+ years of experience providing psychotherapy. She is the founder and clinical director of a private practice, Brickel and Associates, LLC, in Old Town, Alexandria, Virginia. She and her team bring a strengths-based, trauma-informed, systems approach to treating individuals (adolescents and adults), couples, and families. She specializes in trauma (including attachment trauma) and the use of dissociative mechanisms, such as self-harm, eating disorders, and addictions. She also approaches the treatment of perinatal mental health from a trauma-informed lens. Robyn also guides clients and clinicians who wish to better understand trauma's impact on mental health and relationships. She has a wide range of postgraduate trauma and addiction education. She is trained in numerous relational models of practice, including Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy (EFT), the Psychobiological Approach to Couple Therapy (PACT), and Imago therapy. She is a Certified Senior Facilitator, Trauma-Informed Stabilization Treatment (TIST), trained Sensorimotor Psychotherapist, and a Certified EMDRIA therapist and Approved Consultant. Robyn utilizes all of these tools, along with mindfulness and ego state work, to provide the best care to her clients. She prides herself in always learning and expanding her knowledge daily about the intricacies of treating complex trauma and trauma’s impact on perinatal distress.

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In this revisited episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, we are joined by Dr. James Greenblatt, an acknowledged integrative medicine expert, educator, and author who focuses on nutritional interventions in psychiatry and mental illness. Dr. Greenblatt dives into how the medical field needs to focus on the whole body of each individual patient. He discusses the importance of vitamins and minerals in the diet to help protect our brains from dementia and Alzheimer’s. Dr. Greenblatt says that the key to healthy aging combines lifestyle and functional medicine. Tune in to hear all the preventative measures you can do now to help with brain health!

IN THIS EPISODE:

[1:22] What role does nutrition play in mental health?
[5:10] Simple tests to determine a 40-50-year-old's risk for dementia were not part of a doctor's medical practice.
[6:08] How is lithium linked to dementia, and are there any risks associated with using it?
[10:22] What are some of the most commonly missed diagnoses in older adults?
[12:20] What other non-nutritional things Dr. Greenblatt recommends for people to achieve maximum integrative health?
[13:40] Genetic loading - what does that mean?
[14:42] What is the first action Dr. Greenblatt would take for someone struggling with depression?
[17:49] Recent case studies that Dr. Greenblatt has experienced.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Don’t be passive. Get the information you need if you are experiencing memory loss or if you don’t know what's going on. Be your own advocate and get tested.
Genetics plays a big role, but often nutritional or biochemical, relationships, social, and brain-stimulating activities affect brain health.
Connect the body and brain. The issues that arise aren’t an either-or but often a whole-body problem. Nutrition is the fuel our body needs to operate at an optimum level. Vitamins and minerals are cofactors.

BIO:

Dr. Greenblatt has lectured internationally on the scientific evidence for nutritional interventions in psychiatry and mental illness. He is the author of seven books, including Finally Focused: The Breakthrough Natural Treatment Plan for ADHD. He is the founder of Psychiatry Redefined, an educational platform dedicated to the transformation of psychiatry.The platform offers online CME-approved courses, webinars, and fellowships for professionals about functional and integrative medicine for mental illness.

Jame’s Greenblatt Website

About Low Dose Lithium

Psychiatry_Redefined Instagram

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Roberta Sydney is a successful entrepreneur and seasoned board director who uses her expansive expertise and experience to lead various real estate and financial services firms. In this revisited episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, Roberta is here to talk about women in business, share her personal experiences, and offer valuable advice. Diana and Roberta discuss common stereotypes, ways that women can set themselves apart from male leaders, and the necessity of women having professional mentors and sponsors.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:10] Challenges that women face in the corporate world.
[04:08] How Roberta pivoted from financial services to where she is now.
[05:49] Why it’s important for women to have mentors and sponsors in the workplace and what the difference is between the two
[07:30] The differences between women and men leaders and how women are gifted in certain ways that can lead to their success as leaders
[11:56] What skills are needed for succeeding in the corporate world versus succeeding as an entrepreneur
[14:13] In order to be a successful entrepreneur, there has to be an internal dialogue with yourself where you are asking “What do I need?”
[16:29] Roberta shares how she mentors and what sets her apart
[18:00] Advice for women starting in business

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Women need mentors and sponsors. A sponsor is the person who's going to speak on your behalf when you're not in the room. They advocate for you to get the new position, to get the promotion, to get the new opportunity.
Stop using the word “just” to limit the contributions that you have made. Do not apologize when it's not necessary to apologize. Understand how important culture and fit are to you in terms of your own personal growth and pursue opportunities that fit those wants and needs.
Women have different gifts than men in leadership, like having greater empathy, creating safe environments, and seeing and hearing the unsaid. Women are also able to build consensus more easily.
Entrepreneurs need a lot of initiative, self-awareness, and a lot of willingness to fall down several times and get up. There needs to be a fire in the belly to succeed!
When you do get stuck or are facing certain challenges, start an internal dialogue with yourself to figure out what you need. It’s important to recognize your needs and know none of us does it all alone.

LINKS:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertasydney

BIO:

Roberta Sydney is a seasoned board director and former CEO serving on the board of Kiavi (formerly LendingHome) the leading lender for real estate investors, where she chairs the Nominating/Governance Committee and serves on the Compensation Committee. She also serves on the board of Tiedemann Advisors, a global wealth advisory firm that recently announced its plans to go public via SPAC. In addition, she serves as Board Chair of HEI Civil. Her previous board service includes chairing the Compensation Committee for Plaxall, Inc., the Long Island City based manufacturing and real estate company that secured Amazon for their HQ2 before Amazon withdrew.

The breadth and depth of Roberta’s experience comes from serving in executive and board leadership positions with regulated real estate and financial services firms ranging from large, traditional organizations to young, entrepreneurial companies. Sydney possesses a combination of leadership skills in real estate development, financial transactions, negotiations, digital transformation, marketing, and IT system evaluation. In addition to her many accomplishments, Sydney is actively engaged in philanthropy serving on the Neuroscience Advisory Committee and the Trustee Advisory Board of the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, a Harvard teaching hospital.

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In this revisited episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, Chris Herren, a former professional basketball player, joins us to speak about more than his sports history. He is a man in long-term recovery who uses his story to inspire others. He has spoken to over a million students, athletes, and community members about substance use prevention. Diana and Chris discuss his addiction journey, the importance of early prevention of substance abuse, and the need for family involvement during recovery. Listen as Chris shares his inspiring story and his heart for helping others in their sobriety journey.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:30] Chris Herren’s childhood and his first introduction to drugs
[06:44] How substance abuse began for Chris
[08:19] The moment of clarity and how families are impacted
[13:45] Chris’ advocacy work
[15:28] A different type of wellness program
[19:05] How fame impacts substance abuse
[21:35] The challenges of working with others in recovery

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

There is an emphasis on the worst day of drugs rather than the first day. The first day is something that's been overlooked. It’s important for parents to see where addiction begins.
It's so important to intervene early rather than waiting until someone hits “rock bottom.” If we can, we should avoid that term because it’s callous and is used carelessly. It's prevented a lot of people from intervening early.
Families should be a part of the recovery process of their loved one. When families get on board, they can influence the possibilities of somebody else. When families are included, the person who's struggling can catch up.
Sobriety gives you an edge in life, but because of the stigma that's attached to addiction, nobody really wants to say what sobriety does and what recovery does for people.

LINKS:

https://thefirstdayfilm.com/

Facebook: @chrisherren24 I Twitter: @c_herren I IG: @c_herren_

www.herrentalks.com / @HerrenTalks

www.herrenproject.com/ @HerrenProject

www.herrenwellness.com/ @HerrenWellness | Twitter: @Herren_Wellness

| IG: @Herren_Wellness

BIO:

Chris Herren, a former professional basketball player, has built a community around substance use prevention and recovery. As a person in long term recovery, Chris has spoken to over a million students, athletes, and community members since 2009, sparking honest discussions on the topics of substance use disorder, and wellness. Chris continues to share his story nationally with a renewed focus on prevention education and challenging audiences to rethink how we look at the disease of addiction, changing the focus from the last day to the first. In an effort to further the message, The First Day film premiered in July 2019 and is available for download with a screening guide or educational toolkit and lesson plans through the website: www.firstdayfilm.com. Chris celebrated 13 years of sobriety on August 1st, 2021, and is here to talk to us about his journey.

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Our guest for this revisited episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet is financial planner and writer, Allan Roth. Allan speaks about his unconventional business model of having the lowest client retention rate where he provides clients with a one-time financial plan and then gets fired. Allan and Arden discuss his goal to help people have an exciting life by having an incredibly boring investment plan. As a frequent contributor for publications such as The Wall Street Journal, New York Times, and Bloomberg, Allan explains his simple investment philosophy and the different ways he helps clients to minimize their risk and maximize a high return.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:57] Allan’s investment philosophy and how he manages client’s risk and fear during uncertainty.
[05:10] Allan’s business model and thoughts on a holistic approach to investing.
[08:00] Who can this model work for: Allan’s low client retention model.
[10:33] Minimizing risk through investment sectors and index funds versus individual companies.
[16:36] Generational investing and advice for future financial advisors.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

One way to experience success in investing is having discipline to stick to your financial plan. This means buying and selling even when it’s difficult. The older we get, the more money means to us and the harder it is to invest but we have to remain disciplined.
If you own thousands of companies, you’re taking a smart risk. You’re minimizing the risk in the market. The market itself is risky, but this way you’re maximizing the probability of having a good outcome.
Allan encourages clients to own the entire market. Sometimes, clients don’t want to invest in certain sectors because of a lack of understanding or having certain religious beliefs that don’t align with company values. Invest in all industries, take the profits earned from those low cost index funds, and then contribute that to whatever cause they believe in.

BIO:

Allan is a financial planner and writer. His investment columns can be found in publications such as AARP, Barron’s, ETF.com, and Advisor Perspectives. Allan has been an adjunct finance faculty member at Colorado College, the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs, and the University of Denver. He is frequently quoted in such publications as The Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Bloomberg, and others. Allan is the founder of Wealth Logic, LLC, an hourly-based financial planning and investment advisory firm. Neither he nor the firm has ever charged commissions or fees based on assets under management. The goal of his firm is to provide clients with a one-time plan and then get fired. Allan is proud to have the lowest client retention rate in the business. Allan is a licensed CPA and CFP and has an MBA from Northwestern University (Kellogg), but still claims he can keep investing simple, at least as simple as possible, given very complex tax issues in developing a plan.

Allan Roth Website

Allan Roth on LinkedIn

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Joining us today is Margie Foley, founder of Foley Management, a firm that assists individuals and families manage their finances and helps protect against financial fraud. Her company supplies daily management services, bill paying, appointment scheduling, and home and staff management. She discusses the different types of fraud and describes how fraudsters exploit older adults and even young people. Margie has some great tips for protecting your finances in today's episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:46] Margie discusses the growing problem of fraud among the elderly, with the majority being in the area of confidence fraud
[05:40] What two age groups are most vulnerable
[07:40] What are the solutions to this problem, and how a firm like Foley Management can assist
[10:23] Margie explains that some families are resistant to engage these types of services and relates a story where her firm was able to recover a large sum of money
[17:07] Margie has advice about Internet banking

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Logging out of accounts and disconnecting from the Internet at the end of the day is crucial to safeguarding your financial information.
Young adults are as vulnerable to financial fraud as older people because of the amount of time they are online.
It’s essential to have more than one entity overseeing your finances.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

Foley Management Consulting Firm - Website

BIOGRAPHY:

Margie Foley brings over thirty years of successful business experience as an accomplished business owner, guest speaker, international sales executive, and consultant to numerous businesses and families. Recognizing an unmet need to provide confidential administrative services to individuals and families, Margie founded Foley Management Consulting. As trusted advisors, Foley Management is an ethical partner in the development and maintenance of daily management services, including bill pay, appointment scheduling, and home and staff management. Foley Management is a trusted liaison with financial advisors, home offices, health care teams, and attorneys.

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Did you know that children as young as four years old can start developing poor body image? On this revisited episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, Arden is speaking to Rebecca Manley about eating disorder awareness and prevention. Rebecca is the founder of MEDA (Multi-service Eating Disorders Association) and owner of Manley Coaching. Her passion is working with teens and families on issues related to body image and self-esteem. We are talking about how to teach body positivity to kids, what signs to look for in your child’s relationship with food, and the fine line between eating healthy and restrictive eating. This is a really important conversation you don’t want to miss out on!

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:16] What are signs of a negative body image developing and how can parents encourage body positivity
[09:05] Are eating disorders more prevalent in high achieving and affluent families
[13:05] The fine line between healthy behaviors and restrictive eating habits
[18:08] How to intervene in situations when diet culture is praised within a family
[24:00] How to navigate situations when parents aren’t on the same page about what their child needs
[28:25] What is the future of body image and self esteem issues in families

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Children as young as four and five are starting to develop a poor body image saying that they dislike parts of their bodies. And approximately 20% of college females will struggle with an eating disorder during college. We need greater awareness and prevention of eating disorders.
The Five A’s help parents teach children how to protect against the development of eating disorder: Kids need to be assertive and speak up for what they believe in; have awareness of societal pressures; have acceptance of their bodies; know the appropriate action to regulate emotions; have ample opportunities for activity and healthy movement.
Parents need to understand that high stress environments that emphasize achievement or a certain body image increase the risk for the development of an eating disorder. Parents need to be mindful of the messages they are sending to their children.

BIO:

Rebecca Manley, is a trained coach and a member of the International Coach Federation as well as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and Certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) . Rebecca is best known for her work in eating disorder awareness and prevention. Rebecca has published her curriculum entitled, "Teaching Body Confidence" which has been featured on the televised news programs World News Tonight on ABC News, 48 Hours news on CBS as well as many other national and local stations. In addition to body image, Rebecca also specialize in treating anxiety related to school, sports, family and social relationships.

Rebecca Manley is also the founder of MEDA, Inc, also known as the Multi-service Eating Disorders Association. MEDA is a national organization dedicated to the prevention and treatment of eating disorders. MEDA serves as a resource to those struggling with eating disorders and their families. MEDA also serves as a support network for schools and universities as well as a training program for professionals offering a comprehensive internship program, supervision groups and a national conference held every spring. Now twenty-five years old, MEDA is internationally known for its unique treatment model as well as for its innovative educational programming.

Rebecca Manley Website

Rebecca Manley on LinkedIn

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Our guest today in this revisited episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet is Stefan Bate, Chief Clinical Officer at Jaywalker Lodge. Stefan shares his mission as he helps men who have had previous treatment experiences. Stefan reflects on his own recovery journey and the blessings that he has experienced since graduating from Jaywalker and entering the field of psychology. Arden and Stefan discuss the spiritual and emotional elements of hitting rock bottom versus circumstantial consequences. They also dig into the perceptions faced by affluent families in treatment and how Stefan helps families set healthy expectations for treatment.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:33] Stefan’s outlook on his recovery and how recovery changed his career trajectory.

[05:56] When Stefan finally hit rock bottom.

[09:54] Triggering events that happen to people that push them to be all-in for recovery.

[16:04] What’s missing in the psychology field for affluent families?

[22:23] What happens when a family lacks basic education about recovery and unrealistic expectations?

[26:10] Stefan’s advice to someone who is in an active addiction and considering recovery.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Oftentimes someone’s rock bottom is not circumstantial or due to material consequences. It's really an emotional and spiritual rock bottom.

Jaywalker Lodge offers niche treatment for men that have had multiple previous treatment attempts. Men are usually around the age of 28 and have been to three to seven previous treatment experiences.

Often when you scratch the surface of entitlement it is really a learned helplessness and a deep set of shame beliefs. These men question their abilities and capabilities in the world and don't think that they're going to be able to take care of themselves.

RESOURCE LINKS:

https://jaywalkerlodge.com/

Bio: Stefan Bate, Chief Clinical Officer at Jaywalker Lodge

Stefan grew up in Northern Iowa before moving to Colorado to study psychology at the University of Denver. Post college, Stefan worked in the banking industry for several years before starting his own recovery journey in 2007. Stefan is a graduate of Jaywalker Lodge, and it was during his own treatment experience that he became interested in pursuing a career in addiction treatment. Stefan holds a Master’s Degree in Applied Psychology from Regis University and is a Licensed Addiction Counselor in the state of Colorado. Stefan has wide-ranging experience in the field of addiction recovery including working as a recovery coach, therapist, and program director. Stefan also has extensive experience designing and implementing addiction treatment and recovery support programs. Helping people engage in effective treatment, building a solid foundation for real world recovery and helping clients’ participate in a life of true fulfillment are his specialties. In his free time, Stefan enjoys playing in the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains and spending quality time with his wife and their two children.

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Courtney Pullen is the President of the Pullen Consulting Group with more than 25 years of experience in individual and family coaching. In this revisited episode, Courtney joins us to explain the importance of teaching financial literacy as early as possible to your children. He says that it would help if you were intentional when talking about wealth and finances with your family. Plus, Courtney explains how to pass on the proper values to your children around wealth. Tune in as we chat about grit, teachable money moments, and dealing with your own money issues.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:50] When are kids ready to hear about how much money is in your family?
[04:20] You need to be intentional when it comes to talking about money.
[09:30] How wealth can hinder the process of instilling values to your children.
[12:30] We need to not deprive our children of the opportunity to earn.
[21:20] An example of how Courtney promotes grit into his children.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

You need to teach your kids financial literacy from a young age; the sooner, the better!
Let your kids make money mistakes; anything can be a great teachable moment.
Define the purpose of your wealth; that way, you can pass on the proper values in your children.
Parents need to deal with their own money issues before teaching their children about money.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Website

www.PullenConsulting.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/courtney-pullen-54a1035/

BIO:

Courtney Pullen M.A. is the President of the Pullen Consulting Group. He has more than 25 years of experience in individual and family coaching, business and management consulting, leadership development, communication, and team building.

Courtney received his graduate degree in Psychology from the University of Northern Colorado in 1983. He was a Clinical Associate at the School of Professional Psychology at the University of Denver and an Adjunct Professor at the University of Colorado at Denver. Courtney also spent 17 years as a Senior Consultant with Conversant Solutions, a Communication and Collaboration Consulting firm to Fortune 100 Companies.

Courtney has lectured frequently, conducted numerous workshops, and been published in the areas of individual and organizational change, behavioral finance, communication, and family wealth dynamics. He is a former contributing editor to the Journal of Financial Planning and the Journal of Practical Estate Planning and is a faculty member of the Sudden Money Institute. He also holds Fellow status in the Purposeful Planning Institute and is a graduate of the Newfield coaching program.

He has spoken at regional and national conference of the Financial Planning Association (FPA), National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA), Investment Management Consultants Association, (IMCA), and Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO), as well as estate planning symposiums and family foundation conferences.

His primary focus is as a consultant to financial services firms and affluent families. He is the author of Intentional Wealth: How Families Build Legacies of Stewardship and Financial Health. He is also on CPWA faculty at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.

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On this revisited episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, James Hughes joins us to speak about family governance and explain why families need it. James is the author of Family Wealth: Keeping It in the Family and Family – The Compact Among Generations. He also discusses the work he has done as an advisor to high-net-worth clients, and what are some of his favorite resources to share for his clients. Tune in as we talk about the four functions needed for the human community to prosper and how power plays a role in family dynamics.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:05] What is family governance and do all families need it?
[07:00] How families have been rediscovering themselves during the pandemic.
[10:35] Mr. Hughes speaks about navigating his work as an advisor to families.
[15:15] Working with high-net-worth families, Mr. Hughes recommends his favorite resources.
[21:00] The four functions needed for the human community to prosper.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

The pandemic has asked people to actually get to know each other again.
Do you know how your family learns? That’s something you need to figure out so you can grow and flourish together.
Families can prepare themselves to wake up if they know how each other learns.
All relationships are relationships that involve power. Find ways to use your power together.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Website

www.jamesehughes.com

Power and Love

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005P2A6IE/

BIO:

Mr. Hughes, a resident of Aspen, Colorado, is the author of Family Wealth: Keeping It in the Family, and of Family – The Compact Among Generations, both published by Bloomberg Press, and is the co–author with Susan Massenzio and Keith Whitaker of The Cycle of the Gift: Family Wealth and Wisdom, The Voice of the Rising Generation, and Complete Faith Wealth, all published by John Wiley & Sons and is a co-author with Hartley Goldstone and Keith Whitaker of Family Trusts: A Guide to Trustees, Beneficiaries, Advisors and Protectors". In addition, he has written numerous articles on family governance and wealth preservation and a series of Reflections which can be found on his website jamesehughes.com.

He was the founder of a law partnership in New York City specializing in the representation of private clients throughout the world and is now retired from the active practice of law. Mr. Hughes was a partner of the law firms of Coudert Brothers and Jones Day.

He is a current active Fellow of Wise Counsel Research Foundation (www.wisecounselresearch.org) a Boston based think tank providing qualitative advice to families who seek to avoid the shirt sleeves proverb and to help their families flourish.

He is a member of the Advisory Board of Arlington Partners; the Chair Emeritus of Lineage Private Trust Company, a Fellow of the Family Firm Institute, a member of the Society of Trusts and Estates Practitioners, a founding member of the Collaboration for Family Flourishing, a Laureate of the Purposeful Planning Institute, and a Founding Advisor to the Sino-American Family Office Foundation.

He has spoken frequently at numerous international and domestic symposia on the avoidance of the shirtsleeves to shirtsleeves proverb and on the dynamic growth of families’ human, intellectual, social, spiritual and financial capitals toward their families’ flourishing.

He has authored various Forwards to multiple published works on families and their flourishing and has been cited in the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal and various professional journals.

He is a member of boards of various private trust companies, an advisor to numerous investment institutions, and a member of a number of private philanthropic boards. He is a graduate of the Far Brook School, which teaches through the Arts, The Pingry School, Princeton University and The Columbia School of Law. He is a counselor to the Family Office Exchange and recipient of its Founder’s Award, the recipient of the Private Asset Management Lifetime Achievement Award, the Ackerman Institute Family Partner Award, and the Wealth Management Lifetime Achievement Award.

Power and Love: A Theory and Practice of Social Change

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On this revisited episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, Arden is speaking with Brad Sorte, about a topic that hits close to home for them both – facing addiction as a family. Brad talks about his struggle with substance abuse in his early 20s and his life-altering treatment experience at Caron, a treatment facility for addiction and behavioral health issues where he is now the President and CEO. They discuss the benefits and hindrances that families with resources face when dealing with a child with substance use disorder and how healing is accelerated when healthy boundaries are in place. Brad offers advice for parents of younger children on how to be proactive in having conversations about substance and alcohol use. Tune into this encouraging discussion about family therapy, trauma, and positive changes happening in the field.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:35] Brad shares about his background with substance abuse and treatment at Caron
[11:13] When a family has resources, how does it help or hinder the process of recovery
[16:16] How to address destructive family systems in order to help children with substance abuse
[22:40] Best advice for parents of young children when there is a predisposition or possibility for substance abuse
[27:52] What changes are happening in the field of addiction treatment

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Money is like electricity and it is a very powerful tool that can be used for tremendous good and growth, but it's also something that needs to be respected and it can be very destructive and it can be lethal.
It’s important to identify what the families of the identified patient have been through and how to help them refocus their energy on themselves and not solely focus on the loved one, who is in the midst of a self-destructive cycle
Kids have access to information with less adult supervision at earlier ages through smartphones and peer groups. Parents of younger children should consider having conversations about substance use and alcohol, in an age appropriate way, sooner rather than later.

RESOURCE LINKS

Caron Website

Brad Sorte Webpage

The Medicine, Science & Art Behind Addiction Recovery - Caron Blog

https://oconnorpg.com/podcasts/the-elephant-in-the-room-facing-addiction-as-a-family-with-brad-sorte

BIO:

As President & CEO, Brad oversees Caron’s extensive continuum of care for teens, young adults, adults, older adults, and families at its facilities in Pennsylvania and Florida, its outpatient treatment centers in Atlanta, Philadelphia,Northern Virginia, and Wyomissing, Pa., and its recovery centers in New York City and Washington, D.C.

Brad Sorte was appointed President & CEO following Doug Tieman’s retirement in July 2021. Backed by his extensive experience in both business and clinical leadership roles, Brad has a rich foundation to continue to propel Caron's mission and thought leadership forward. He remains committed to his goal of providing a culture in which the business of healthcare never interferes with the fundamental needs of each individual patient.

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Jamie Mendelsohn of the Ashar Group joins us to discuss a little-known concept relating to your life insurance policy. Many people unable to continue to make payments toward their life insurance policy simply walk away from the policy. However, they need to realize there are buyers for that policy and that they can sell their existing policy. Jamie explains all the benefits of knowing the value of your life insurance policy and how easy it is to learn about this simple process. This episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet is an eye-opener. So, grab your pen and take some notes.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:35] Jamie explains how Ashar Group works with policy owners
[03:01] There is a secondary market that will value life insurance policies that an individual wants to relinquish
[5:00] Large institutions etc., purchase policies. Guaranteed universal life products are a very attractive purchase
[06:44] Jamie discusses repurposing life insurance policies, and she gives statistics on the loss of capital because people are not aware of this concept
[12:20] Valuing life insurance policies and how they fit into overall financial planning
[15:47] Jamie tells about a family who monetized the mother's life insurance policy to fund her care

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

People have walked away from their life insurance policies because they couldn’t afford the premiums. However, the policy has value, and a market exists for these policies.
Ashar Group does not write life insurance policies; however, they do place a value on them, and this process only takes about two days.
A universal life policy is the most valuable and attractive to buyers of life insurance policies.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

Ashar Group - Facebook

Ashar Group - Website

Jamie L. Mendelsohn – EVP – Ashar Group

Life Settlement Probability Calculator

Life Insurance Valuation

Success Stories

Trust & Estates Article: The Role of Life Settlements in Estate Planning

Tax Advisor Article: Spotlight on Life Settlements

NAEPC Journal: Maximizing Life Settlement Value Through a Policy Auction

BIOGRAPHY:

Jamie Mendelsohn’s reputation as a dedicated client advocate precedes her. Her commitment to partnering with financial professionals, knowledge of every facet of the secondary market, and diligent effort to exceed expectations is unmatched. For those lucky enough to work with her, a more loyal partnership could not be found – unless you are referring to her clever ability to one-up her brothers in every team costume contest.

As Executive Vice President, Jamie is the go-to resource for helping advanced planners, and fiduciaries integrate life insurance policy valuations into their comprehensive planning process. In addition, she spends much time educating the financial services community at conferences, estate planning councils, and wealth management firms nationwide.

Jamie earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Florida, where she was an Alpha Delta Pi sorority member. She proudly serves as the President of the Central FL/North FL Chapter of the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation, speaking at events and mentoring patients and families navigating the treatment of these diseases. She lives in Central Florida and enjoys spending time with family and friends, fishing, and traveling.

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Dr. Patrick Knapp, the founder of Becoming Free, a program designed to help individuals recover from unique harmful religious or spiritual experiences, is here to discuss his experience in an abusive religious group. Dr. Knapp provides hope to those who have shared that experience and to the families of cult members. In addition, he discusses the definition of a cult, why a person becomes involved, and the steps needed to heal. Don’t miss this informative discussion on today’s Beyond the Balance Sheet episode.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:11] Dr. Knapp defines a religious cult and describes why people are attracted to them.
[06:12] Dr. Knapp tells his story of being in a religiously abusive organization.
[10:29] Why do people leave or want to leave these abusive organizations?
[12:33] Dr. Knapp explains the healing journey for a person leaving the group.
[15:23] Do people leaving these groups still want to be connected to the Bible and where they can go for help?
[18:08] What advice do you give a family member? Dr. Knapp shares some of the organizations where support is available.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

It is a slow progression to be manipulated by a cult leader. Often, a person becomes brainwashed.
There is hope for a person coming out of a cult. They need to know it’s not their fault, and they need encouragement and hope.
Not all cults are like Jonestown. But, unfortunately, people are so susceptible to them because they seem welcoming and can appear to be a good thing.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

Becoming Free Website

BIOGRAPHY:

Patrick J. Knapp, Ph.D., Pat’s initial interest in cult recovery stems from his own involvement in a Bible-based group (1970-1984). His M.A. thesis (Fall 2000) was titled: “The Place of Mind-Control in the Cult Recovery Process.” He completed 98 semester hours of doctoral studies in Marriage and Family Counseling (Professional Track), at Gordon-Conwell in Charlotte, NC, with an emphasis on family systems and attachment theory, and completed his doctorate (Ph.D.) at Graduate Theological Foundation (GTF). His doctoral thesis was titled: “A Survey of Religious Abuse and Recovery.”

He contributed a book chapter on developing support groups from a faith-based perspective for those affected by religiously abusive environments, available under the title: Cult Recovery: A Clinician’s Guide to Working with former members and Families (2017). His first complete book was Understanding Religious Abuse and Recovery: Discovering essential principles for Hope and Healing (2021). Most recently, he co-authored (with his wife, Heidi, CLC) the book chapter “Marital Damage and Recovery Following Religious Abuse” in Wounded Faith: Understanding and Healing from spiritual abuse (2022).

He and Heidi are professional life-recovery coaches and educators primarily working with those affected by religious or spiritual abuse. They can be reached at becomingfree.org@gmail.com

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Josh Kanter, the founder of leafplanner, joins us today to discuss the importance of having a tool to collect, organize and map a family enterprise’s information in a single source. Wealthy families unprepared for the grantor's passing can be left in a problematic situation. The old 3-ring binder with information regarding banking and insurance policies doesn’t meet the needs of today’s affluent families. Josh’s unique system outlines what you didn’t know you needed to know. Tune in to learn about this valuable tool.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:53] Josh describes his family’s situation and how a family owner’s manual functions for a family of wealth
[04:10] The family owner’s manual consists of far more information than bank accounts and life insurance policies
[06:01] The manual is a digital file that can be updated continually or printed for someone not adept at using technology. It’s designed to cover family history, relationships, and the whys and hows of the function of the business
[10:08] Josh shares some of the hurdles his family dealt with when his father became ill
[12:51] Josh outlines how the leafplanner shines a light on the blind spots that need to be considered
[16:35] How this system benefits a family educationally and provides empowerment

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

A family owner’s manual gives instructions to a family to keep a business operating how it functioned before the founder became ill or passed away.
The manual shows relationships between decisions, accounts, expectations, etc., unllikey the old-fashioned 3-ring.
The leafplanner system alerts family members affected by the death of a grantor the information needed to continue a business. Every affluent family should have this system.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

Josh Kanter Advisory Services Website

leafplanner Website

Josh Kanter - Email

BIOGRAPHY:

Josh Kanter is the founder of leafplanner, a platform built to collect, organize and map a family’s and family enterprise’s information in a single-source manner, allowing the identification of blind spots, providing a tool for the education of family members and advisors, and providing a family with a more effective, comprehensive, and efficient succession-of-information.

Through Josh Kanter Wealth Advisory Services, Josh provides thoughtful, personalized multi‐generational family wealth advisory services to his clients, including family meeting facilitation, structuring, governance, trust, estate and tax planning, “blind spot” review, philanthropy, and more.

Josh began his career as a lawyer before leaving his practice to build and run his family’s multi-generational, multi-branch family office for over 20 years. Josh is involved with numerous non-profit organizations and frequently speaks on family, family office, political, economic, and philanthropic topics. Josh received his J.D. from the University of Chicago in 1987.

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Brian Cuban is an attorney, author, and mental health awareness and recovery advocate. In this revisited episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, Brian discusses the inspiration behind his recovery advocacy work and what led to his recovery journey. Additionally, Brian explains why it’s essential to have an open dialogue surrounding body dysmorphia and how recovery can lead to acceptance. If you’re starting your journey to recovery, listen as we reveal which first steps you can take. Stay tuned as Brian shares what helped during his recovery journey and dives into his book, The Ambulance Chaser.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:35] About Brian Cuban and the inspiration behind his recovery and advocacy work.
[05:20] The importance of discussing body dysmorphia and how recovery can lead to acceptance.
[10:37] Lawyers tend to have a higher rate of substance use; Brian shares his journey with substance use in law school.
[17:05] Brian's first steps when he started recovery.
[19:35] Advice for individuals struggling with recovery or body dysmorphia.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

You should tell the truth to your therapist; it’s an important step in the recovery journey.
The only prerequisite to recovery is that you are above ground.
Feeling shame is normal; find a way to deal with the shame.
There are many different prongs to living your best life that constitutes recovery.

LINKS MENTIONED:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/briancuban/

Website

www.briancuban.com

Brian Cuban’s book The Ambulance Chaser

https://www.amazon.com/Ambulance-Chaser-Brian-Cuban/dp/1637582412

BIO:

Brian Cuban is an attorney, author and mental health awareness and recovery advocate. He is the author of the best-selling book, The Addicted Lawyer, Tales of The Bar, Booze Blow & Redemption. His debut thriller novel, The Ambulance Chaser is set for release December 2021.

He has spoken at conferences, non-profit events, colleges and universities across the United States and in Canada. He also writes extensively on these subjects. His columns have appeared on CNN.com, Foxnews.com, The Huffington Post, The New York Times, and in online and print newspapers around the world.

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On this revisited episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, we are joined by guest Anna Hall, the creator of The Purpose Equation®. Throughout this episode, we discuss the importance of purpose and defining your how and your why. Anna breaks down what purpose is, and how people can go about finding their purpose through her signature equation. Anna says that knowing your purpose equation can determine how to move through life. She believes people’s purpose(s) can shift throughout their lifetime through different milestones. Later in the episode, Anna provides excellent advice for parents supporting their children to determine the child’s purpose by getting curious about their interests. Tune in today to learn about individual purpose and how to create meaning and joy in everyday life.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[1:50] What does the word “purpose” mean?
[3:23] What is the purpose equation? What are the components?
[6:37] How does the purpose equation translate to practical things?
[13:22] Is there a natural time when people re-define their purpose?
[16:15] What is the linkage between mental wellness and a sense of purpose?
[23:53] How do families and parents talk to their children about purpose?
[28:55] What is Anna’s purpose?

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Purpose is not something that you do. What you do is an output of who you are and your why.
Everyone has a purpose. Everyone has the power within themselves to make a difference in the world.
What does your child love? A parents' job is to help unpack WHYs in the activities your children love. Focus on having your child figure out WHO they are, not what they will do. Try to remove SHOULD.

BIO:

Anna was a teenager when she volunteered at a nursing home in her hometown of Hanover, NH. It turned out to be her first step along a 20-year course focused on improving quality of

life for older adults. Along the way she has deployed and managed programs, services, and technologies with that aim. As she gained experience, she developed enrichment programs for older adults living in All Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC), independent, assisted living and memory care settings.

She led CCRC and Skilled Nursing engagement programming for Brookdale Senior Living, the largest senior-living provider in the country. At Connected Living – a social impact company dedicated to connecting older adults with community and family – Anna served as the Chief Purpose Officer. She informed all aspects of the business, from product development to sales to operations, and realized that she loved creating and consulting at the intersection of technology, engagement, and culture. Throughout her career, she has witnessed how purpose builds resilience and improves wellness. Her mission has become helping people define and activate their purpose – in life and work.

In 2018, Anna began building The Purpose Equation®, an evidence-based framework that guides individuals to discover their unique Purpose. The Purpose Equation® LLC launched in July 2021. The framework she invented is the basis for programs and workshops that are designed to identify purpose, spark joy, and personal growth – at any age and in every moment.

Anna Hall’s LinkedIn

The Purpose Equation Website

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Trudy Avery is the Development Officer for Pavillon, a non-profit substance use treatment program located in Mill Spring, NC. She developed compassion for those using substances because of her son's journey through addiction and recovery. Trudy shares her family's personal story in hopes of helping other families. She also discusses the disconnect between insurance companies and treatment programs. Don’t miss this informative episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:41] Trudy shares her genetic background, which leans toward alcoholism, and describes Corey’s journey through treatment
[07:30] What happens When parents disagree and one parent has reached their limit?
[10:15] Making the mistake of continuing financial and material resources to the detriment of the substance user
[14:30] Wealthy families statistically have a more challenging time dealing with an addicted child
[19:18] Insurance companies should pay for extended treatments
[22:36] Trudy is grateful her son is doing well and thankful she can help other families.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Supporting your substance-user child financially only enables the drug user to continue using.
You can expect some people to criticize your decision of not financially taking care of your adult children; however, every family is different, and it is a choice only that others can make.
Your adult child in recovery will thank you for making difficult decisions we call “tough love.”

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

Pavillon Website

Trudy Avery - LinkedIn

BIOGRAPHY:

Trudy Avery is the Development Officer for Pavillon, a non-profit substance use treatment program located in Mill Spring, NC. Trudy oversees all of its fundraising and alumni programs, which help support patients and their family members. Trudy has over two decades of development experience. She received her BA from SUNY Excelsior College and has a graduate certificate in Meeting Management from Bentley University.

In addition to her professional career, Trudy sits on several boards, including MOAR (Massachusetts Organization of Addiction Recovery) and the Aids Support Group of Cape Cod. She is also a member of the National Institute of Health’s HEAL Study, Faces and Voices of Recovery, Bourne Substance Free Coalition, and Barnstable County Regional Substance Use Council. In addition, she has testified at the state and local levels on mental health parity and access to substance use treatment.

Trudy and her husband, Rick, live on Cape Cod and are the parents of four sons. As a very grateful mother of a son in long-term recovery, Trudy’s passion is reflected in every aspect of her advocacy work and her career.

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In this revisited episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, Lisa Cukier joins us. She is a Partner and Executive Committee member at Burns & Levinson LLP in Boston. To start, Lisa explains why guardianships and conservatorships may be necessary for your family. Lisa then talks about what signs may appear when someone is experiencing a decline in their mental health. Finally, Lisa dives into exactly what the process looks like of going through guardianships and conservatorships. Some families can be apprehensive about the process, and there are other options. Tune in as Lisa explains why an incentive trust could be a better alternative to a typical guardianship or conservatorship.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[04:10] Lisa explains why guardianships and conservatorships are needed. Lisa then talks about what signs may appear when someone is experiencing a decline in their mental health.
[09:20] About the process of going through guardianship and conservatorship.
[15:10] How Lisa works with families who are resistant to guardianships and conservatorships.
[19:05] There's a less intrusive alternative to guardianships and conservatorships: an incentive trust.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Guardianships and conservatorships are typically court-appointed. To get one, you will need to file a petition in court.
There needs to be a link between a medical diagnosis and lacking the capacity to make certain decisions.
An incentive trust can be a more suitable alternative to guardianship and conservatorship.
Mental health issues will happen in every single family; it’s critical to be prepared ahead of time.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Website

https://www.burnslev.com/professionals/lisa-m-cukier

Business Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/burnslev/

Business Twitter

https://twitter.com/burnslev

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisacukier/

BIO:

LISA M. CUKIER is a Partner and Executive Committee member at Burns & Levinson LLP in Boston. Her practice includes fiduciary representation, trust planning and trust dispute resolution and litigation, family crisis and family dispute resolution, sophisticated high end divorce, divorce impacted by family trusts and family business, blended family planning and litigation, mental health and addiction related legal interventions, elder law, guardianship and conservatorship litigation, grandparents visitation matters, and elder financial exploitation and undue influence matters. Previously, Ms. Cukier was assistant general counsel for the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health and Department of Mental Retardation (now DDS). As Special Assistant Attorney General at DMR, she prosecuted disabled person abuse cases for the Disabled Persons Protection Commission. She is a past president of the Massachusetts Family and Probate American Inn of Court and is presently serving on its Board of directors, is a member of the Boston Probate and Estate Planning Forum, the Boston Estate Planning Council, and the Massachusetts Association of Guardians Ad Litem. Ms. Cukier has been recognized with the Best Lawyers designation from 2010 – 2021, the SuperLawyers designation from 2005-2021, the Massachusetts Bar Association Community Service Award in 2005, a National Law Journal Trailblazer in 2017, the Women Worth Watching recognition in 2018, Top Women of Law in 2019, and sits on the WBA Women Leaders Initiative as of 2020. Ms. Cukier is a graduate of Northeastern University and Suffolk University Law School. Ms. Cukier is raising her two children in Weston Massachusetts.

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In this revisited episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, Carrie Casden joins us for a conversation. She is an established business manager and money coach who has been in practice for over 25 years. Carrie opens the show by explaining how everyone has different perspectives and habits when it comes to money; there are especially significant differences between the money mindsets of men and women. If you are going through a divorce or considering divorce, Carrie explains the importance and benefits of hiring a money coach. Tune in as we chat about the importance of a savings account, the complexity of retail therapy, and how to still find joy with spending money.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:45] Each family member can have different perspectives and habits when it comes to money.
[07:40] Unfortunately, there’s a lot of shame and guilt for women around financial mistakes.
[10:00] During a divorce, so many things are happening. Carrie explains why you may need a money coach.
[14:40] Curb emotional spending: how to deal and prevent retail therapy.
[19:30] How to improve your savings while still finding joy in having money.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Some women can spend $10,000 on a purse, but they're nervous about putting $10,000 into the stock market or investment.
Finances don’t have to be complicated; there's a simple way to do it.
A money coach can support you in understanding the financial aspect of going through a divorce.
During the pandemic, people realized that they don’t actually need a lot of stuff. Think about why you are shopping; is it emotional?

LINKS MENTIONED:

Website

https://carriecasden.com/

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/carrie.casden/

Facebook Business

https://www.facebook.com/CarrieCasdenCoach/

Twitter

https://twitter.com/carrie_casden

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/carriecasdencoach/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/carriecasdencoach

BIO:

Carrie Casden is an established business manager and money coach who has been in practice for over 25 years. She works with a wide array of clients helping them to understand their relationship with money and provides services that assist clients with taking care of their day to day financial needs. She is the perfect blend of a financial quarterback and trainer

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Elizabeth Kelley, a criminal defense lawyer and editor of the book, Representing People with Dementia, A Practical Guide for Criminal Defense Lawyers, is our guest today. Elizabeth has her finger on the pulse of what is happening with people who commit crimes and have mental health issues. Unfortunately, the statistics on our preparedness in our prison system are pitiful. Elizabeth discusses the problems and has recommendations for families with a loved one experiencing these issues. Don’t miss this enlightening episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:46] Elizabeth Kelley tells why she wrote her latest book and refers to a “silver tsunami”
[03:14] The spectrum of cognitive decline manifests itself in many disturbing ways. Prisons now have an aging population and don’t have the proper tools to service those who have mental disabilities
[07:53] Elizabeth states that jails and prisons are the worst settings for these individuals
[10:21] A person who has mental health issues is not exempt from the law. Therefore the family needs to monitor their behavior with counseling, testing, and some restrictions before the person does something wrong and is found criminally responsible
[15:00] Loved ones caring for a patient need to reach out for assistance so they don’t suffer from caregiver trauma
[19:16] Elizabeth discusses the restraints placed on criminal defense lawyers and the unfair consequences often experienced by the offender and the victim

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

The prison population is getting older. And unfortunately, inmates with mental illnesses are not getting the treatment or placement they need.
Adults who may have once been pillars of society may do things they would have never thought of doing before they became ill. Unfortunately, they will not get better.
The mental health system is unprepared for the onslaught of older adults suffering from mental illnesses.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

Elizabeth Kelley - LinkedIn

Elizabeth Kelley - Facebook

Representing People with Dementia, A Practical Guide for Criminal Defense Lawyers

BIOGRAPHY:

Elizabeth Kelley is a criminal defense lawyer based in Spokane, Washington, with a nationwide practice specializing in representing people with mental disabilities. She is the editor of four books published by the American Bar Association (ABA): Representing People with Mental Disabilities: A Practical Guide for Criminal Defense Lawyers; Representing People with Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Practical Guide for Criminal Defense Lawyers; Suicide and Its Impact on the Criminal Justice System (with Francesca Flood), and Representing People with Dementia: A Practical Guide for Criminal Defense Lawyers. She chairs The Arc’s National Center for Criminal Justice and Disability Advisory Board, served three terms on the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL) board, and serves on the ABA’s Commission on Disability Rights and the Criminal Justice Council. In addition, she is a member of The Federal Lawyer Editorial Board.

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Cynthia Haddad is the co-author of the book The Special Needs Planning Guide. When it was published, it was a one-of-a-kind book advising family members of a disabled person on how to do estate planning. In addition, she discusses government benefits, non-profit agencies, public education entitlement, and other helpful topics. Learn about a Letter of Intent and the elements to include. This book is in its second edition for a good reason. Don’t miss this informative episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:41] Cynthia Haddad tells why she co-wrote the book The Special Needs Planning Guide
[06:52] Cynthia suggests financial instruments that enable the disabled to inherit, and she stresses the need for an attorney
[08:23] Cynthia speaks about her brother with disabilities and how that led her to research and write the book
[11:15] What is the content of a letter of intent
[16:27] Cynthia discusses rivalries that come about regarding inheritance not being equal for all siblings and how vital communication during the planning stages is necessary

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Planning and prior communication should occur when a will is drafted. When resources are not divided equally, it is helpful that all family members are aware beforehand.
A Letter of Intent covers personal details about the disabled family member that no one else would know but the parent. Therefore, it is an essential document.
The disabled can only benefit from governmental services if the proper financial plan exists.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

Cynthia Haddad - Facebook

Cynthia Haddad - Website

Cynthia Haddad - LinkedIn

BIOGRAPHY:

Cynthia Haddad is a Certified Financial Planner Professional and a Chartered Special Needs Consultant. She is a founding partner and wealth advisor at Affinia Financial Group in Burlington, MA. As a financial professional and advocate for her brother Ron, who has developmental disabilities, Cindy has dedicated her career to serving families like hers. She is a nationally sought-after speaker on planning for families of individuals with disabilities and co-author of the groundbreaking book, The Special Needs Planning Guide, now in its 2nd edition.

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Alexander (Alex) Brown is the Founder & Principal of Recover Hospitality. Alex’s consulting and travel agency is dedicated to assisting individuals who struggle with mental health and addiction. Traveling to places associated with past substance use can be a trigger for individuals in recovery. Alex discusses planning vacations that allow individuals in recovery to travel successfully. He also discusses crisis intervention plans, accountability platforms and recovery-focused travel ideas. Tune in for some great ideas in this Beyond the Balance Sheet episode.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:36] Alex discusses his journey of substance use and why he left the hospitality industry.
[05:13] Alex suggests ways to stay sober while traveling and describes some of the pitfalls to avoid
[06:35] Plan an active wellness vacation and avoid destinations where alcohol is the main activity. Look for recovery-focused travel locations
[10:21] Have a crisis intervention plan in place while traveling. When possible, have an accountability platform.
[13:24] Alex talks about what support for the individual in recovery should look like, and the role of family members traveling with them
[15:43] Air travel has its triggers. A crisis management relapse plan should be in place when air travel is involved
[17:20] Finally, Alex shares tips on travel when mental health or addiction is an issue

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Contact a travel agent and tell them you want a non-alcoholic environment on your vacation. If the agent questions you, they are probably not the right travel agent.
It is essential to create opportunities that help resist temptation when planning a vacation for an individual in recovery.
A wellness-focused destination for the sober traveler takes some of the stress out of vacation plans.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

Alexander Brown - LinkedIn

Recover Hospitality - Website

BIOGRAPHY:

Alexander (Alex) Brown is the Founder & Principal of Recover Hospitality, a consulting company, and travel agency dedicated to increasing the accessibility of the hospitality industry for individuals who struggle with mental health and wellness, specifically addiction. Alex grew up in a family business that has owned and operated hotels since the 1960s. Alex worked in hospitality management for over a decade in both the rooms and food & beverage divisions. As a person in recovery, Alex knows the temptations in corporate and leisure travel; and has witnessed the toll addiction has taken on individuals, families, communities, and the hospitality industry.

In 2017, after completing the sale of his family's 5-star boutique hotel, Alex left the day-to-day operations of the hospitality business and spent two years helping to build and manage a recovery coaching team for a health-technology company. During this time, Alex witnessed people in early recovery struggle to maintain connection and accountability when traveling. Many individuals chose not to travel or dine out due to the stressful environment. By establishing Recover Hospitality in 2021, Alex uses his personal experience in recovery, extensive hospitality knowledge, and coaching experience to limit temptations and add individualized support for travelers who have struggled with substance use and other mental health concerns. Additionally, Recover Hospitality offers consulting services for hospitality businesses looking to better support the mental health of both guests and staff.

Alex graduated with a degree in economics and business from Rollins College. In addition, he has completed the UMass Boston Addiction Counselor Education Program. He is pursuing a Master's in Social Work from Boston College, with a concentration in mental health and certification in neurobiology for social work.

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Dr. Emeran Mayer is a Gastroenterologist, Neuroscientist, and Distinguished Research Professor at the David Geffen School of Medicine. Today he discusses bidirectional communication within the brain-gut microbiome system. The data Dr. Mayer presents is critical to understanding how the gut and the brain are interconnected. He shares information about the proper lifestyle to produce healthy communication between the brain and the gut.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:38] Dr. Mayer explains why he wrote his first book and what he learned from being a first-time author
[04:08] The medical community is gradually changing how it views the body and the brain. There are definite connections between emotional well-being and physical health
[06:00] Dr. Mayer explains the bidirectional connections between the brain and the gut
[08:20] Western medicine has taken one view, but ancient healing systems have always viewed the gut as the place diseases start
[13:24] When the environment in our gut changes, chemicals provide feedback to the brain.
[17:52] Several different therapies are being developed. An example is nutritional psychiatry
[21:41] Dr. Mayer leaves us with his prescription for a healthier gut through diet and exercise

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

The gut has a substantial role in our overall health. There are direct links between the gut and the brain.
Eating a plant-based diet, vigorous exercise, interrupting a sedentary lifestyle during the day, and meditation is vital to longevity.
Holistic medicine has been on the right track by examining our gut's role in overall wellness.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

Dr. Emeran Mayer - Website

Dr. Emeran Mayer - Newsletter

BIOGRAPHY:

Emeran A Mayer is a Gastroenterologist, Neuroscientist, and Distinguished Research Professor in the Department of Medicine at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, the Executive Director of the G. Oppenheimer Center for Neurobiology of Stress & Resilience at UCLA and Founding Director of the Goodman Luskin Microbiome Center at UCLA. He is one of the pioneers and leading researchers in bidirectional communication within the brain-gut microbiome system with wide-ranging applications in intestinal and brain disorders. Dr. Mayer has published 410 scientific papers, co-edited three books, published the best-selling The Mind-Gut Connection book in 2016 and the Gut Immune Connection book in June 2021, and is currently working on a PBS documentary about the mind-gut connection. He is the recipient of numerous awards, including the 2016 David McLean award from the American Psychosomatic Society and the 2017 Ismar Boas Medal from the German Society of Gastroenterology and Metabolic Diseases.

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Bob Weinhold is a coach who works with affluent families. He assists them in transitioning the family business from one generation to the next. Bob also describes the obstacles both generations face that can hinder an effective transition. He discusses coachability, leadership, communication, and roadblocks to success. Finally, he shares solutions to the complex problem of letting go of the reins. Tune in today for answers where you thought there were none.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:34] Bob Weinhold shares his background and explains how he assists people by understanding their skill set and how that knowledge can serve them in business
[06:34] Wealthy families are connected not only because they are related but because their lives are interconnected across multi-generations in the workplace
[08:03] The dynamic of successful succession between generations and advice that Bob gives to the patriarch or matriarch who is moving on
[13:15] The NextGen should have opportunities early on in the company. Appreciation of the company and family name is essential to understanding the influence their family has had in the community
[16:11] Communication patterns, historical ways of doing things, and safety in expressing your thoughts are common concerns in a multi-generational business
[20:03] The dynamic of legacy should be nurtured and approached in a way that encourages the NextGen

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Understanding the history, influence, philanthropy, and employment opportunities that precede them will help the NextGen understand that their success is not just for themselves but for the community.
Coachability plays a big part in the succession of the younger and older generation’s ability to move on. Both parties need to be good listeners.
Communication is crucial in transitioning a business from one generation to the next. Obtaining a coach to guide them through the process is most helpful.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

Bob Weinhold - LinkedIn

Velocity Advisory Group Website

BIOGRAPHY:

Bob Weinhold has spent his career helping individuals, teams, and organizations accomplish what they did not think possible. At his core, he connects deeply to help individuals, families, and businesses achieve results they could not imagine (but knew were necessary) while engaging employees and families to drive innovation, growth, and sustainability.

Bob began his career as a clinical therapist specializing in performance enhancement and concluded his healthcare career humbly serving as CEO for behavioral health hospitals and Health Care organizations. For the last nine years, he has served as a strategic advisor and executive leadership coach to Senior Executives, Families, and Businesses. As a Partner of Velocity Advisory Group, Bob oversees all Executive Coaching and Family Business delivery with the firm. Bob works with many multi-generation family businesses through leadership acceleration, succession, and family transition. He also works within many businesses directly with executives/teams in large publicly traded companies, private equity-based businesses, and family offices/enterprises. During his career, he has had the opportunity to work with Academic Institutions, state/local governmental agencies, many organizations in the nonprofit sector, licensing/accreditation/regulatory organizations, and high-level athletes, including time at the Olympics.

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Olivia Summerhill, the founder of the financial consulting company Summerhill Firm, works with affluent women through the divorce process, helping them to thrive post-divorce. Olivia firmly believes that women need to discover where they want to be and who they want to be before the divorce is final. Divorce is complicated in any circumstance. However, it is even more complex when those of ultra-high net worth get divorced, and Olivia has suggestions for navigating through this challenging time. Hear about these suggestions and how bringing in the right professionals at the right time can make all the difference for the affluent woman facing divorce.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:40] Olivia Summerhill shares how Summerhill Firm and the skill she brings to the table enables women to thrive post-divorce
[02:46] She describes what is involved in the initial meeting with a client and some of the most significant complications a woman faces
[04:06] Other professionals become a valued source during the divorce process
[10:19] Olivia explains fear's role in the decision-making process. Fear is not only directed at finances but also at self-worth
[14:00] Olivia tells why there is not just one way to move on after divorce
[15:15] Collaborative divorce versus a divorce that is litigated and the intimidation women feel by the judicial process

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Therapists, accountants, trust officers, child specialists, and luxury realtors are just a few professionals that may help negotiate a fair settlement.
If you want to create a fair playing field, a collaborative divorce is beneficial to both parties.
Women not only fear their financial future when getting a divorce, but they can also have fears of self-doubt and failing in another relationship.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

Summerhill Firm Website

Olivia Summerhill - LinkedIn

Olivia Summerhill - Facebook

BIOGRAPHY:

Olivia Summerhill is the founder of a financial consulting company, The Summerhill Firm, helping affluent women maintain their lifestyles and thrive post-divorce by educating and empowering them financially. Having over a decade of experience in wealth management and private banking, Olivia dedicates her time to protecting women. Her niche serves famous and high-profile women who need help navigating the financial complexities of divorce. She also consults with financial advisors and family offices to help their clients avoid divorce mistakes. Olivia is often highlighted in Forbes, US News, MSN, and other national media. In addition, she hosts a money coaching podcast called 'Divorce for Wealthy Women.' Among numerous other designations in finance, Olivia is a Certified Financial Planner, Divorce Financial Analyst, Divorce Specialist, Money Coach, and Psychology of Financial Planning Specialist.

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Paul Edelman is a coach and facilitator who works with ultra-high-net-worth families, assisting them with conflict resolution, problem-solving, and decision-making. Today, he describes the different models he has developed to help them in this process. Paul also plays a role in the Ultra High Net Worth Institute. He shares some thought-provoking ideas regarding life transitions faced by the older generation when giving up their responsibilities in the family business. Tune in today for proven methods you can learn to work through conflict.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:19] Paul talks about decision-making and models we use whether we know it or not. He gives examples of three different models; the zero-sum game, the collaborative decision model, and the explicit model
[10:55] Paul describes his methodology of creating models for conflict resolution and problem-solving
[13:09] The mission of the Ultra High Net Worth Institute is to study affluent families and assesses problems and situations unique to them
[17:55] Paul explains the transient sense of euphoria when coaching an individual and how to guard against that problem
[23:14] Paul shares his methods for training coaches and explains an undifferentiated response and why that invites a differentiating question
[27:23] How and why the designated bad guy is misunderstood

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Conflicts and problem-solving are different in every situation. Therefore, you should choose the model that best addresses the circumstance.
Someone in a group of decision-makers always takes the opposing opinion to the proposed decision. However, knowing the pros and cons of any situation is valuable. Therefore, it is unfair to label that person as “negative” if they are only taking the issue to a conclusion.
More attention should be focused on the needs and feelings of the older generation when it is their turn to give up the reins and transition out of the business.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

Paul Edelman Coaching Website

Paul Edelman - LinkedIn

BIOGRAPHY:

Paul is a coach and facilitator who helps individuals and families be more effective in achieving their goals. Clients use Paul’s expertise to:

• Navigate generational transitions in leadership, ownership, and wealth

• Facilitate planning, problem-solving, decision-making, and conflict resolution

• Create structures and processes to guide individual, business, family growth, and

philanthropy

Paul earned a Ph.D. in Psychology at Harvard University, where his research and teaching focused on group dynamics.

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Katie Darnall is the Business Development Director, Americas for Trusted Family. Today we learn how the software developed by Trusted Family provides a secure platform for the affluent family. Generational wealth requires the storage of business and personal documentation, and often, this information is spread among many platforms. Trusted Family has developed software to manage business finances and provides a communication method that is much more secure than today's social media. Katie also discusses the family council concept and the value of bringing generations together to maintain the culture of the business and family name. Tune in today for an eye-opening discussion of what is available in new software technology.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:47] Katie Darnell explains the vision and services offered by Trusted Family and how their service intersects business and personal data
[03:24] The family enterprise ecosystem serves as the platform for ensuring that culture, goals, and values are passed down generationally
[06:37] Technology has brought a new component to the table that was not there when multi-generational business ventures began
[09:34] Organizing and driving engagement within the family is achieved through comprehensive software that includes the listing of social activities not related to the business
[17:16] New technology can provide a vehicle for younger family members to be a valuable asset bringing all generations together

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

A family council is integral to younger members of a multi-generational affluent family to ensure they espouse the same culture, mission, and direction that has contributed to the entity's wealth.
Social media platforms like texting, Snapchat, Instagram, and email are not secure ways to communicate, and documentation needs to be centralized.
The older generation, who still use a paper trail for business transactions, may resist new technology. However, once implemented, they see the benefits.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

Katie Darnall - Facebook

Katie Darnall - LinkedIn

Trusted Family Website

BIOGRAPHY:

Katie Darnall is the Business Development Director, Americas for Trusted Family, and is currently based in Knoxville, TN. She brings experience in NextGen family business engagement and technology and SaaS sales and implementation. Katie is a 4th generation family member of The Pictsweet Company and began her career as the Business Analytics Manager in the family business. Before joining Trusted Family, Katie ran the sales and customer teams for an early-stage e-commerce analytics startup, Reviewbox, Inc. She loves bringing the two worlds together at Trusted Family by helping NextGens become an integral part of solving their governance challenges by utilizing strategic technology solutions.

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Jim Eastburn, the Corporate Director of Transformational Experiences at Canyon Ranch, speaks with OPG’s Diana Clark about her upcoming presentation on how to navigate parenting today. He also shares about the philosophy behind the retreat’s diverse programming. Canyon Ranch professionals take an integrative approach to health and wellness. This beautiful facility provides an atmosphere for the perfect vacation while providing access to an incredible team of experts. Programs including sleep deficits, nutrition, weight loss, emotional problems, parenting and more. Jim also discusses plans for 2023. So if you are looking for life-changing experiences in a resort setting, look no further than Canyon Ranch.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:09] Jim Eastburn describes the integrative approach taken at Canyon Ranch
[03:50] Jim explains why he believes guests come to Canyon Ranch, how many struggle with self-care, and how an immersion experience in navigating parenthood might start with self-healing
[12:06] Jim discusses how community and connection in therapy help guests who want to avoid “group therapy”
[15:52] Canyon Ranch creates a personal itinerary for each guest
[18:46] The programming at Canyon Ranch continues to evolve in 2023, including one on culinary experiences and immersion in brain health

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Families often struggle because the concept of “self-care” is foreign to the parents. Yet, a healthy family is dependent upon the wellness of the adults. Understanding that there is no perfect parent relieves some parents' guilt.
When you learn that you are not alone in the difficulty you are experiencing, healing and self-care begin.
Changes made in small, incremental amounts are likely the changes that will become a part of your story.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

Canyon Ranch Website

Jim Eastburn - LinkedIn

BIO:

Jim Eastburn is the Corporate Director of Transformational Experiences at Canyon Ranch. Jim helps to curate programs and guest experiences that inform, inspire, and delight. With a human services background in social work and case management, he joined Canyon Ranch in 1993 as a Program Coordinator. Since then, Jim has held various leadership roles, including serving as the Executive Director of the Life Enhancement Center and Associate Director for Health & Performance. In addition, he currently leads a dynamic team of Wellness Guides at each of the Canyon Ranch properties.

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In this revisited episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, Kitty speaks out to share her story and help fight the stigma surrounding mental illness. She hopes families and clinicians will invest more research and awareness around symptoms and effective treatment methods. First, Kitty opens up about her struggles with bipolar disorder, OCD, and binge eating disorder. Kitty then reveals what she would have done differently on her journey to recovery; plus, Kitty gives advice for those struggling with depression and other mental health issues. Tune in as we talk about the stigma and discrimination around mental health in our society.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:05] Kitty has bipolar disorder, OCD and has struggled with binge eating. She opens up about her mental health journey.
[18:35] What Kitty wished she did differently on her journey to recovery.
[20:55] The people that made an impact on Kitty accepting her mental health struggles.
[22:50] The advice Kitty has for people struggling with depression and other mental health issues.
[24:30] Kitty speaks about the stigma and discrimination around mental health in our society.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Catching mental issues early can completely change a child’s life.
A strong foundation of mental health knowledge can equip your children to have happy, healthy, and productive lives.
You should never ignore mental health struggles; always take them seriously.
The more you talk about your mental health, the more we can destigmatize it in society.

BIO:

Kitty was born and raised in NYC where she attended a K-12 prep school before graduating in 2007. After graduating, she spent a semester living in Cairo Egypt studying Arabic at the American University in Cairo. She is currently enrolled at Columbia University where she is completing her bachelor’s degree having taken many classes non-degree before her enrollment at Columbia. Kitty is 32, and has bipolar disorder, OCD, and has struggled with binge eating. She’s now speaking out to help fight the stigma surrounding mental illness in hopes that people will invest in more basic research to develop more effective medication and other treatments for mental illnesses.

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In this revisited episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, Dr. Craig Heacock joins us. He is an adolescent and adult psychiatrist and addiction specialist in Colorado and the host and co-producer of the podcast Back from the Abyss: Psychiatry in Stories. First, Dr. Heacock gives us a brief history of ketamine from the last fifty years as an FDA-approved drug. We talk about how ketamine became a go-to treatment for resistant depression and bipolar disorder. Tune in as Dr. Heacock reveals how a state-of-the-art assessment delivery and follow-up for ketamine would look like.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:00] Ketamine: a brief history of the past fifty years.
[05:00] How would a state-of-the-art assessment delivery and follow-up for ketamine look like?
[09:00] Who is running the ketamine clinics if there’s a shortage of psychiatrists?
[11:55] How money and profit drive some of this ketamine delivery.
[16:09] Dr. Heacock’s experience with individuals who abuse ketamine.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Ketamine is a go-to treatment for resistant depression and bipolar disorder.
A state-of-the-art ketamine therapy involves a true psychiatric evaluation to see if there are other things that should be happening first.
Ketamine does not replace medications; it augments them and helps them work better.
Most people that are receiving ketamine treatments are very middle class.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Website

craigheacockmd.com

Podcast: Back from the Abyss: Psychiatry in Stories

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/back-from-the-abyss-psychiatry-in-stories/id1469826718

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/theabysspod/

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/backfromtheabysspodcast/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-heacock-md-1a8618196

BIO:

Dr. Craig Heacock is an adolescent and adult psychiatrist and addiction specialist in Colorado and the host and co-producer of the podcast Back from the Abyss: Psychiatry in Stories. He was a co-therapist in the Phase 3 trial of MDMA-Assisted Psychotherapy for PTSD and has particular interest in the use of ketamine and other psychedelics to treat severe mood disorders and PTSD. He is a graduate of the University of New Mexico School of Medicine and did his psychiatry training at Brown University.

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Luke Jernagan, an ordained priest in the Episcopal Church and Director of Family Learning at the Matter Family Office, passionately shares the value of counseling for wealthy multigenerational business owners and their families. The problems facing any family are complicated; however, the issues can escalate when wealth is added to the equation. The Matter Family Office provides tools that enable families to work through problems while focusing on identity, values, vision, and purpose. Tune in to hear how this type of counseling creates a foundation for families to thrive over generations.

IN THIS EPISODE

[01:33] Luke Jernagan explains the purpose of The Matter Family Office
[04:04] The benefits of communication
[06:27] Luke describes the differences between secular counseling and the counseling done at The Matter Family Office
[11:04] How successful families navigate the wealth they have by listening, identifying purpose and intent
[15:33] Bringing in-laws into a family business seamlessly
[17:54] Encouraging parishioners to seek outside counseling and the rules regarding that situation in the Episcopal Church
[21:09] Luke leaves us with a takeaway about himself and his passion

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Multi-generational families with businesses have obstacles that other families do not. It takes effort to manage wealth and teach children how to manage money successfully..
Extended family within the business can bring another set of problems. The best way to handle those joining the existing family is to have a plan before the situation arises.
It is essential to begin training children early about the mechanics of running a business and the pitfalls they may face.
Business owners need to realize that all the tools and knowledge they have that create a successful business are different from the tools that make a healthy, thriving family.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

The Matter Family Office Website

Luke Jernagan LinkedIn

Luke Jernagan Facebook

BIO:

Luke joined Matter in 2022 after 15 years as a parish priest in the Episcopal Church. He was drawn to the Family Matter Office for many of the same reasons he is drawn to ministry – his love of helping people celebrate the joys of life – and has deep experience guiding families as they navigate complexities, transitions, and opportunities.

As Matter’s Director of Family Learning, Luke works with families to strengthen their relationships, communicate effectively, and identify what matters most to them, so they can thrive as individuals and together. He also leads Philanthropic Strategic Planning and Next-Gen Education at Matter and enjoys supporting family members of all ages and financial acumens on their wealth journeys.

A graduate of the University of Alabama with master’s degrees in divinity and sacred theology from the General Theological Seminary, Luke is also a trustee of American Friends of the Anglican Centre, a Rome-based organization working to promote reconciliation across denominations. He serves on the board of the Episcopal Parish Network, which encourages innovation and collaboration across the church. He is a board member of the Cricket Island Foundation, which funds organizations that support youth-led social change.

Luke is a lifelong learner and is drawn to hobbies and activities that lend themselves to continuous improvement. Nothing makes him happier than skiing with his kids and pushing himself to tackle harder runs and techniques. Golf is another passion (he picked it up during the pandemic, and now he’s hooked), though Luke notes that woodworking with his children is more satisfying and produces better results…time together and a hand-made item that will last forever.

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In this revisited episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, we are joined by Thayer Cheatham Willis, an internationally acclaimed author, educator, speaker, and leading authority in wealth counseling. Thayer shares insight on how her background helped inform the career she chose to pursue and the importance of wealth counseling.We chat about the importance of exemplifying values and how children will learn from what they see, rather than what they hear. Tune in as Thayer dives into how wealthy families react to stress, mental health, and substance use.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:20] How Thayer’s background helped inform the career that she chose to pursue. Thayer speaks about the importance of wealth counseling.
[08:00] Parents need to exemplify values; kids will learn from what they see rather than what they hear.
[10:00] How wealthy families are reacting to stress from the pandemic. Thayer speaks about mental health and substance use during these times.
[21:00] The parents of the family will often pay for wealth counseling; however, young people still need to have their own journey.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

It is important to role model the behavior you want to see from your kids.
Teens need to live their own lives; sometimes, a wealth counselor can help parents see differences within the family.
Parents need to let their children make their own decisions. An advisor can help parents accept their child’s journey.
Even if you agree to disagree, parents and children can come to terms with each other’s different life paths.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Website

www.thayerwillis.com

www.linkedin.com/in/thayerwillis

BIO:

Thayer Cheatham Willis is an internationally acclaimed author, educator, speaker, and leading authority in the area of wealth counseling. She has been a licensed, practicing psychotherapist since 1990, and her primary focus is on facilitating inheritors and their families as they cope with the psychological challenges of wealth. A child of wealth herself, born into the founding family of the multinational Georgia-Pacific Corporation, she brings to her field a unique insider’s perspective on contending with family dynamics as they relate to the mental and emotional challenges of wealth. Accredited with an M.A. from the University of Oregon and an M.S.W. from Portland State University, Thayer is a licensed clinical social worker (L.C.S.W.) specializing in wealth-related issues. Thayer offers thirty years of experience in a field she helped pioneer and dominates as one of its most prominent, foremost authorities. Working privately with a global client-base, she has helped over 10,000 inheritors and their families in eight countries and four continents resolve wealth-related family conflicts.

Thayer is the author of Navigating the Dark Side of Wealth: A Life Guide for Inheritors, an invaluable introduction for families on the difficult journey to freedom beyond wealth, and Beyond Gold: True Wealth for Inheritors, which focuses on how individuals can be responsible with the financial wealth in their lives, keep it in perspective, and be free to take on the tough, rewarding task of enhancing relationships. Thayer wrote a column for Worth Magazine for several years, has had many articles published in additional national magazines and writes a quarterly newsletter, available on her website. She also has been interviewed for top financial publications including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Financial Times, The Business Journal, and Time Magazine.

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Today, we are joined by Dr. Kain Weaver to discuss the power of words, especially when recovering from a medical condition. Dr. Weaver experienced a stroke at the age of 28 while in his first year of residency. Defying the odds, he survived the stroke and learned lessons he hopes to implement in the medical world. Because of his hospital experience, the power of words spoken to patients became evident. After being told he would never be a doctor or even get back to the life he was living, he pushed through. Although his life looks different, Kain is now in his fourth year of residency. Tune in to hear his miraculous story of healing and his outlook on how words can impact patients’ healing process.

IN THIS EPISODE

[1:30] Did Dr. Weaver knew he wanted to be a doctor before his stroke, and how did the stroke impact his decision?
[2:28] What did he learn most about care while being a patient?
[6:11] What would he say as a doctor had it been his patient.
[7:18] What situation brought Dr. Kain Weaver’s focus on words of kindness?
[11:55] What are the barriers he wants to see removed?
[14:08] What conversations does Dr. Weaver have with patients about finances?
[15:45] What work is he doing now during his fourth year residency?
[17:00]What area of medicine will Dr. Weaver focus on when he completes his residency?
[17:44] What are the changes he hopes to see?

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Tearing down someone, whether a patient or anyone in your life, through words such as “you can’t do that” or “that will never happen” is incredibly disheartening and negatively impacts the patients’ experience. Use uplifting statements to allow the patient to see possibility and have hope.
Doctors can benefit from being on the patient side of the room. It could create a significant change in the way that patients are treated. The patient is more likely to be seen as an actual person versus as just another medical issue to fix.
There are many financial options available to patients. Ask questions to see what's possible. Some more affordable medications can work just as well as the more expensive options and save patients a lot of financial hardship.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

The WholeHearted MD

BIO:

Dr. Kain Weaver graduated from Mercer University School of Medicine, Savannah, GA. He is currently in his 4th year of residency training specializing in Psychiatry in Charlotte, NC. He will graduate residency in 2023.

Dr. Kain Weaver has experience in stroke and brain Injury advocacy work. He has been featured in podcasts sharing his story and the lessons he learned as both a doctor and a patient. He gave a graduation commencement speech focusing on resilience at Georgia Southern University.

His goal is to graduate residency and work in outpatient psychiatry. He will continue sharing his story and life lessons to help others become resilient while they face adversity.

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Today we are joined by OPG’s Director of Aging Services, Sam van Kalkeren. Sam discusses how to help a loved one faced with a dementia diagnosis. He gives excellent information on how to communicate with a loved one to ensure their voice is heard as they navigate this difficult path. Sam talks about the benefits of having a care partner and what type of support they can offer the family. It is vital to have a care partner if the ailing family member lives out of state. We touch on what happens when someone with a dementia diagnosis gets a psychiatric admission and give excellent tips on keeping the loved one safe. This episode contains great information to help your aging parent handle cognitive decline.

IN THIS EPISODE

[2:20] How does a child support a parent facing cognitive decline?
[5:20] What are the benefits of having a care partner?
[8:52] What is the best way to communicate with someone with dementia?
[10:40] What does Sam recommend to children when they first hear the diagnosis?
[12:04] How do family members help someone struggling with dementia avoid being taken advantage of financially?
[14:24] What happens when someone goes into the hospital with a psychiatric admission?
[20:25] How do you help a family member who doesn’t want to accept their diagnosis?

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Initiate the difficult conversation about how the ailing parent wants to live the rest of their life. Do they want a DNI (do not intubate) or DNR (do not resuscitate)? Know all medications and have everything laid out to help the parent.
Form a relationship with a care partner if you are out of state or need additional support.
Those with dementia need a lot of support. Some people can continue to live at home, work, and speak for themselves, but the proper support needs to be in place.
If your loved one goes into the psychiatric emergency department, they may get scared and become aggressive. If they are sedated due to that behavior, it can be difficult to go back to inpatient care. An impatient home may not want to take the patient back if they display aggressive behavior. It’s important to have a care partner to help avoid the loved one being put in a psychiatric department.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

BIO:

Sam van Kalkeren, MSN, RN, CDP, is OPG’s Director of Aging Services. He has been working as a psychiatric RN since 2012 and is a Certified Dementia Practitioner. Sam has worked with all age populations suffering from mental illness, from pediatrics to geriatrics. He has experience working with clients suffering from substance use and co-occurring disorders, complex mental health diagnoses, neurocognitive disorders, and personality disorders. Most of his nursing career has been in the inpatient psychiatric setting. Sam joined OPG from Tufts Medical Center in Boston. Before Tufts, he was the Patient Care Director for the geriatric and adult inpatient psychiatric units at Carney Hospital in Dorchester, Massachusetts.

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Today we are joined by Eva Wathén, who works with family-owned businesses to help them navigate the inherent complexities and form a united company. Her firm works to create a solid organizational culture. Eva discusses techniques her team uses to support evolving businesses and provides examples of when a family-owned business may bring in a third party to help with strategy. She encourages companies to look at its values, vision, and past and future legacy. Tune in today to learn how to move your company forward with solid momentum.

IN THIS EPISODE

[1:48] Eva explains why she is crazy about “Organizational Culture.”
[3:16] What a healthy versus unhealthy family business culture looks like.
[6:12] What tools and techniques does Eva use to help businesses change their ways in order to succeed?
[8:06] What does it look like to view the family separately from the business, and how to identify where they intersect?
[10:05] How to deal with love, money, and power - how does this affect family businesses?
[11:23] When would a family system model be used instead of bringing in a third person?
[13:03] Eva describes the type of situation she would be brought in for.
[18:23] Eva tells us about her experience in her own family business.
[20:24] Eva shares the findings she gathered in her last dissertation about family businesses.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

There are four areas to look at in a business to ensure success—the first being the direction and mission of the company. Make sure clear values are in place. Improve involvement from all employees by getting them excited and defining roles. Lastly, review the external focus, customers, and partners.
Determine the legacy and the direction of the business. Uncovering why the business exists will help the next generation feel connected. To do this, the company often needs to review its mission when the business was created and then determine how it can be continued moving forward.
A family business is all about continuity. Problems usually arise when continuity is challenged. This is why values are so important.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

Bravemotion Website

BIO:

Eva Wathén is the co-founder of Bravemotion Oy and a third generation family business owner/board member and adviser (ACFBA, FFI). She aims to engage in meaningful interactions that support mutual growth and move ahead. Sustainable and resilient development of individuals and organizations is her passion and source of continuous learning. Her special focus is on the promotion of family business, social and human capital. She also acts as a mediator to ensure smooth communication between family and business systems.

She is a certified executive coach (ICF) and holds an eMBA and an MSc in Applied Psychology.

She is married and has three adult daughters, and whenever she finds some time off, you will find her outside in nature or reading / listening to books.

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Joe Szimhart has worked with more than a thousand people to help them leave cults. Through his experience being in and leaving a cult, he has focused on interventions to free others. During today’s episode, Joe helps us understand why someone might join a cult, how money impacts them, and what happens when one decides to leave a cult. He also touches on the physiological aspects of what people must deal with when leaving and what some unsuccessful interventions have looked like. Tune in today to learn more about his work and signs of someone's unhealthy relationship with a group.

IN THIS EPISODE

[1:15] What is a cult?
[3:12] Joe shares an example of a case he has been involved in.
[7:31] What happens when someone decides to leave a cult?
[9:40] What draws people into cults?
[13:33] How does money attract people or maintain a connection to the systems?
[18:54] How long was Joe participating in a cult himself?
[22:55] Joe talks about the people he has helped in various ways.
[24:46] What hasJoe learned from times he wasn’t successful in helping someone leave a cult?

KEY TAKEAWAYS

People invest so much of themselves into a cult that it can cause big physiological traps for individuals when they want to leave.
Not all cults are the same in terms of money. For some, money is hidden away, and members are sought for their financial wealth. Other cults don’t require members to have money and it’s not a factor in getting or staying involved.
To leave a cult, an intervention must show the person that they can reinstitute a sense of choice and show them the potential of carrying on their life outside of the cult they are involved with.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

Joseph Szimhart’s Website

Books:

Brain Washing: The Science of Thought Control

How to Think about Weird Things

BIO:

Joseph Szimhart has been a Cult Intervention Specialist and media consultant about cults since the early 1980s when he began helping families and individuals impacted by harmful cult behavior. He has a degree in Arts and Sciences from the University of Dayton in Ohio and a Certificate in Painting from the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts. He is currently employed as a crisis caseworker at a psychiatric emergency hospital in Pennsylvania. His cult experience with several Theosophy-based cults from 1978 to 1980 drew him into cultic studies. He has presented papers many times at conferences, including with the Association of Sociology of Religion and the International Cultic Studies Association. As a media consultant, he provided the story for A Mother’s Deception starring Joan Van Ark (1994), and his intervention work was the subject of the feature article “New Age Exorcist” in DETAILs Magazine (Sept. 1991). The International Cultic Studies Association presented him with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016. He maintains an art studio at his home in Stowe, PA. His first novel Mushroom Satori: The Cult Diary, was published through Aperture Press in 2013. His memoir, “Santa Fe, Bill Tate, and me: How an artist became a cult interventionist,” was released in 2020.

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In this revisited episode of Beyond the Balance sheet, Dorothy discusses her experience as the mother of a child with ADHD and Bipolar Disorder which led to her interest in educating other families touched by these issues. She speaks about the journey of getting multiple opinions for her daughter’s diagnosis and reveals what she would have done differently for her family. Tune in to this episode as we talk about what is preventing people from really finding and channeling resources to mental health concerns.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:10] Dorothy opens up about her experience parenting a daughter who is struggling with behavioral health issues.
[08:55] Dorothy searched tirelessly for answers. She speaks about the journey of getting multiple opinions for her daughter’s diagnosis.
[12:50] What Dorothy would have done differently with her family.
[24:05] About what is preventing people from really finding and channeling resources to mental health concerns.
[29:10] Overall, be respectful of your child's wishes.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Any major illness disrupts the family dynamic. An inordinate amount of attention and time is devoted to the one child that appears sick. While on the other hand, the siblings that appear normal are getting less attention.
Parents of children who have a major illness have a divorce rate of 80%.
Marriages that are fragile fall apart more easily than those that are strong.
It is very frustrating for a family to not have clarity around their loved one’s diagnosis. However, there should be a relief knowing that an illness can change over time.

LINKS MENTIONED:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dorothy-sprague-b498a71/

BIO:

Dorothy Whitmarsh, a native New Yorker with two grown daughters, is a graduate of Brown University and holds an MBA from New York University’s Stern School of Business. She retired from Wall Street in 1989. Dorothy has served on the boards of The Chapin School in New York City (where she was elected a corporate trustee and served for 20 years), The Dutchess Land Conservancy, the National Eating Disorders Association and the Republican Majority for Choice.

Dorothy’s experience as the mother of a child with ADHD and Bipolar Disorder led to her interest in educating others about the experience of families touched by these issues. Over the years she has consulted pro bono with numerous families trying to cope with the challenges of learning, eating and mood disorders in their children. In addition, she was a member of the National Council at McLean Hospital in Boston for several years while her daughter was treated there.

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In this week’s revisited episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, we are joined by Jay Bacrania, CEO and Co-Founder of Signet Education LLC, and Sheila Akbar, Signet's President and COO. Signet helps students and parents develop skills they will need to overcome challenges and empower students to make successful decisions in college. Jay and Sheila explain how parents can navigate engagement with their child who has difficulty with executive functioning challenges. In addition, they discuss the importance of having healthy boundaries during the college admissions process. Tune in as Jay and Sheila give their thoughts on the challenges of working with affluent families and the massive need for executive function support and structure during the pandemic.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:30] About Jay Bacrania and Sheila Akbar. They speak about the inspiration for Signet and how their vision has evolved.
[09:10] How to engage a student who is having difficulty with executive functioning challenges.
[15:50] Parents need to have healthy boundaries when it comes to the college admissions process.
[20:50] There is a tremendous rise in mental health issues during the pandemic. Executive function support and structure are needed now more than ever.
[30:00] The challenges of working with affluent families.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Students should create a habit of reflection and self-understanding that will allow them to build a foundation for academic success.
Parents should create the space for students to feel safe in exploring some solutions for their academic challenges.
Students don’t need to know what to do; instead, they need to know how to think.
Parents and students shouldn't be worried about the reputation of a college. Instead, they need to consider which college will allow students to become the person they want to become.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Website

https://signeteducation.com/

Twitter

@SignetEducation

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/SignetEducation/

BIO:

Jay Bacrania

Jay is the CEO and Co-Founder of Signet Education LLC. His passion for education began in high school and continued throughout college, during which time he ran three different tutoring and mentoring organizations. After graduating from Harvard in 2005, Jay began tutoring privately, and eventually co-founded Signet Education with a friend, with the idea that they could build a company that was focused less on jumping through hoops, and more on genuine education.

Signet Education is built on the premise that each student is on a unique educational journey. That journey is external -- doing well in school, finding the right college, and getting in; but it’s also internal -- understanding oneself better, building skills to be effective in the classroom and in life, developing a love of learning, and using education to navigate to a place in the world where one can define and build a meaningful and successful life.

Over the last 15 years, Jay and Sheila have worked together to build a world-class organization that works with students in a highly personalized way to help them define their academic path--both external and internal--and achieve their goals, setting themselves up for a successful and meaningful life.

Sheila Akbar

Sheila is Signet's President and COO and our resident admissions and test prep expert. She joined the Signet team in 2010, bringing with her a wealth of experience teaching SAT, ACT, GRE, literature, and composition in both one-on-one and classroom settings. Sheila loves both teaching and learning, and finds nothing more rewarding than working closely with students to overcome the challenges they face.

After graduating from Harvard in 2002, she spent two years working in financial services before continuing her academic career, which culminated in two doctorates. She brings her significant business and academic experience to bear on her current role at Signet, which includes managing the administrative team, speaking to every incoming client to match them with the right tutors and services, and providing educational thought leadership for the company. Sheila holds a bachelor's degree and master's degree from Harvard University and two doctoral degrees from Indiana University.

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When a patient finds out they are terminally ill, with less than six months to live, they may choose Medical Aid in Dying in certain states. Today, Dr. Robin Plumer talks to us about what Medical Aid in Dying is and how patients decide to pursue it. Dr. Robin Plumer says her job is like “a midwife to dying.” She discusses the circumstances where it is performed and the loving environment it can create. Tune in today to learn more about how Medical Aid in Dying works and what states allow this course of action.

IN THIS EPISODE

[1:51] How did Dr. Robin Plumer’s experience in New Zealand impact her work today?
[3:37] What is Medical Aid in Dying?
[4:40] How is Medical Aid in Dying different from suicide?
[8:50] What is the partnership between Hospice and the Medical Aid in Dying doctor?
[12:19] What is the personality type of people who choose Medical Aid in Dying?
[15:56] What is Dr. Robin Plumer’s role in Medical Aid in Dying?
[18:11] Is MAID supported in the United States?
[19:51] Does insurance cover this?
[20:47] Can Medical Aid in Dying be done for those with dementia?
[22:56] How does Hospice approach the subject of Medical Aid in Dying with patients?

KEY TAKEAWAYS

For Medical Aid in Dying, the patient must self-administer the medicine. A doctor can go to the patient's home and mix the medication, but the patient has to drink it or use a syringe to administer it.
Medical Aid in Dying allows people to say goodbye to the people they love in their homes, listen to their favorite music, and pass peacefully.
It is a loving and intense environment. It’s a natural way of dying and is not highly-medicalized.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

Compassionate Endings N.J. Website

BIO:

Dr. Robin Plumer has practiced emergency medicine for over 30 years. In 2008, she went to New Zealand to live and work. She continued to work in emergency medicine, but also followed her interest in end-of-life care while working in several hospices and completing a postgraduate diploma in Hospice and Palliative Medicine at the University of Auckland. In 2017, she returned to the US to help care for her father, who had Parkinson’s disease. She worked in both inpatient and community hospices in New Jersey for three years and became interested in the passage of NJ’s medical aid in dying (MAID) law. Realizing that few clinicians were participating in the law, she decided to pursue intensive study in the field and collaborated with experienced MAID clinicians in California, Washington State, and Oregon. In July 2020, she started a practice called “Compassionate Endings NJ” with a former nurse colleague who shares her passion for very personalized and comprehensive patient care. Since starting their practice, they have attended many MAID deaths, and have become proficient in managing special situations. Part of their mission is to encourage those in the medical community who wish to become involved in MAID by mentoring and teaching.

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In this revisited episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, Naz discusses some of the most memorable family systems she has seen in her career. Worthy Circles works with many affluent families; Naz explains how they give professional recommendations to their families. Tune in as we talk about the needs of advisors during Covid-19 and how Naz's work significantly impacts the way she manages her own family dynamics.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:50] Naz speaks about some of the most memorable family systems she has seen in her career.
[14:10] Worthy Circles works with many affluent families; Naz explains how they give professional recommendations to their families.
[16:15] Advisors have a lot of needs. We speak about the struggles of advisors during Covid.
[21:30] How Naz's work impacts the ways that she manages her own family dynamics.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Professional recommendations will come down to personal connections.
The industry has been lucky during Covid because most advisors have had more business than they can manage.
As families increase their wealth, their lives become more complicated.
We're seeing clients with needs that aren't always easily answerable; the more complex your life becomes, the more complex your needs will be.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Website

www.worthycircles.com

BIO:

For the past 20 years, Naz has worked in the family office community, both in Boston and nationwide. She served as a managing director at Family Office Exchange (FOX) for 8 years, overseeing the single-family office, multi-family office, and advisor relationships. From there, she went on to manage the center-of-influence strategy at Ballentine Partners, a multifamily office based in Waltham. In 2015, she created Worthy Circles as a family office club for advisors in the Boston area to meet, network, and share their thought leadership.

Prior to her work in the family office market, Naz worked at the Corporate Executive Board (CEB) in Washington, DC, where she oversaw the firm’s relationships with the financial services sector through programs such as The VIP Forum.

Naz graduated summa cum laude from Middlebury College, where she majored in English, and spent time studying abroad at King's College London.

She now resides in the Boston suburbs with her husband and two daughters. She manages the Professional Advisor Leadership Council (PALC) for the Foundation for MetroWest; is on the Marketing, Memberships, and Programming Board for the UHNW Institute (UHNWInstitute.org); sits on the board of the Agamenticus Yacht Club in York, Maine; and is an active member of the Hunnewell Elementary School Parent Teacher Organization. In her spare time, she enjoys writing for local publications and dreams of someday writing a novel. In the meantime, she feels fortunate to work with the wonderful community of peers that is Worthy Circles.

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In this revisited episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, we are joined by Jennifer Risher, author of “We Need to Talk: A Memoir About Wealth,” who tells her story and explores the impact of wealth on identity, relationships, and sense of place in the world. Jennifer discusses her journey and the inspiration behind her career of helping people have much-needed conversations. Then, Jennifer gives tips on having awkward financial discussions with people around money. Tune in as we talk about why wealth shouldn’t be a barrier to having great relationships in your life; instead, you should focus on authenticity, connection, and intimacy.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:35] About Jennifer’s journey and the inspiration behind her career of helping people have much-needed conversations.
[08:00] Wealth can be a truth serum; Jennifer explains what that means.
[18:30] Jennifer gives tips on having awkward financial discussions with people around money.
[21:30] Why wealth shouldn’t be a barrier to relationships in your life.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

You don’t realize what money struggles someone is going through unless you talk to them.
There's a real chance of intimacy and learning through conversations about money.
Before talking to other people about money, find out what feelings you personally have around money.
Human authenticity, connection, and intimacy are by far the most valuable thing in your life.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Website

www.jenniferrisher.com

Book

https://www.amazon.com/We-Need-Talk-Memoir-Wealth/dp/1939096464

BIO:

Jennifer Risher is on a mission to move money out of the taboo category and help us have much-needed conversations. Her book, “We Need to Talk: A Memoir About Wealth” tells her story and explores the impact of wealth on identity, relationships, and sense of place in the world. Jennifer was born in Seattle, Washington, grew up in Oregon, and graduated from Connecticut College. She and her husband, David, have two daughters and live in San Francisco, where David is CEO of Worldreader, a nonprofit he co founded to create a world where everyone is a reader. Last year, in response to COVID, Jennifer and David launched #HalfMyDAF challenge, which has now inspired nearly $14 million in charitable giving from donor advised funds.

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In this revisited episode of Balance the Balance Sheet, Peter and Arden O’Connor Sr., parents of Arden O’Connor, Founder, and CEO of O’Connor Professional Group, share their experiences navigating the behavioral health care system with their youngest son, Chris. Arden Sr. and Peter were surprised by the early onset and intensity of Chris’ substance use. They join Diana to talk about the professionals they hired and how having financial resources was not the only solution to finding appropriate care for Chris. Arden Sr. reveals the helpful advice she received on their journey and which characteristics of the O’Connor family helped them survive and grow.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:10] Peter and Arden Sr. were surprised about their youngest son’s addiction problem.
[11:45] Paying for professionals kept their son alive. However, throwing money at a problem won’t fix it.
[14:20] Helpful advice that Arden Sr. received as a mom of an addict.
[20:20] How Chris prepared Arden for working with people who suffer from addiction.
[26:30] The characteristics of the O’Connor family that helped them survive and grow.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

You can’t just throw money at a problem and solve it.
It’s important to live in a community when finding sobriety, especially in early recovery.
It may be best to give your loved one a wake-up call by removing them from your home.
Forgiveness is a difficult step in the recovery process. However, it will be essential when it comes to navigating the disease of addiction.

LINKS MENTIONED:

O’Connor Professional Group

https://oconnorpg.com/

BIO:

Peter and Arden O’Connor Sr., parents of Arden O’Connor, Founder and CEO of O’Connor Professional Group, share their experiences navigating the behavioral health care system with their youngest son, Chris. A graduate of Holy Cross and Harvard Business School and successful real estate entrepreneur, Peter has a family history of alcoholism and is over thirty years sober himself. A dedicated and compassionate stay at home mom, Arden Sr. graduated from SUNY Stony Brook and worked as a probation officer, where she witnessed clients with an array of behavioral health issues.

Despite their personal and professional knowledge base, Arden Sr. and Peter were taken aback by the early onset and intensity of Chris’ substance abuse. Over the course of fifteen years, Chris cycled through 15 different rehabilitation programs, was prescribed over 25 medications, and worked with approximately 30 different clinical professionals. After spending countless hours doing their own research, hiring family lawyers, and investing over half a million dollars in Chris’ care, Arden Sr. and Peter were confused, exhausted and frustrated. Like many families, they couldn’t believe the level of turmoil and tragedy that Chris’ addiction caused in their otherwise harmonious, talented and blessed family.

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In this revisited episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, Peter Hogan shares his story of growing up in a high achieving, privileged suburban area outside of Boston, and how we discovered substances at the young age of 12. Peter opens up about how he struggled to find his identity and how he discovered himself through his recovery journey. Listen as he talks about his experience in treatment and how his daily routine practices help create a path to long-term recovery.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:17] Peter’s story and discovering substances at an early age
[06:13] How Peter’s parents responded when finding out Peter was struggling with substance use
[09:02] Peter’s experience with treatment
[14:32] A new identity
[15:50] Daily routines and growth
[18:38] Advice for parents who have children struggling with substances

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

In Peter's experience, when kids are at a loss of where they fit in in the world, being someone who is using substances can create its own identity. It takes 30 seconds to become that person.
Everyone is capable of long-term recovery when there is a desire to take ownership of their future.
Successful treatment experiences can help lead to finding your tribe. You can find your identity and form relationships with others that have a similar goal in mind. You can form your new identity and form relationships based on the identity as a sober person.
It’s normal for parents to want to protect their children and help them. Sometimes the best help is to give them a sense of ownership and responsibility in their life as they enter sobriety.

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Alex Dayton has an impressive history in the mental health field including serving as the Clinical Director for Freedom Institute and the Chief Clinical Officer of Veritus. He joins us today to talk about addiction treatment and recovery for licensed professionals. Because of their license, professionals like doctors, lawyers, and judges are more reluctant to seek treatment. The program offered by Veritus, which uses technology, helps to make treatment more accessible to this population. Listen to today’s episode as Alex talks about the correlation among addiction, wealth, and success, explains dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and shares exciting trends in the mental health field.

IN THIS EPISODE

[01:46] Similarities and differences between licensed professionals and the average person getting support for substance use.
[06:22] How doctors compare to other patients in treatment
[09:54] How treatment for lawyers is specialized
[12:54] The correlation among addiction, success, and wealth
[18:21] An explanation of DBT
[23:42] Alex shares what he is looking forward to in the field in the coming years

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Technology is being used in the mental health field making treatment more accessible and offering different solutions for clients.
DBT is an effective therapy technique because it is applicable in real-time.
Doctors, lawyers, and other licensed professionals often have a hard time seeking help for substance use because they are afraid it will affect their license. Veritus and the Freedom Institute both aim to help treatment be more accessible to this population.

RESOURCES:

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

Veritus Website

BIO:

Alex Dayton is a Psychotherapist in private practice and an advisor to several organizations helping to support mental healthcare programming and strategy. Alex served for several years as the Clinical Director for Freedom Institute, an outpatient treatment program located in New York City.. In addition, Alex served as the Vice President of clinical strategy and business development for Freedom Institute. Alex served as Chief Clinical Officer of Veritus, a virtual intensive outpatient program he helped launch and design to treat medical professionals, lawyers, and judges struggling with substance use disorder. Alex remains a consultant for both Freedom Institute and Veritus as a senior advisor. In addition to his Masters degree from New York University, Alex has received intensive training in DBT, and advanced practices in DBT from Marsha Linehan at Behavioral Tech. He has received training in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) from the Beck Institute, completed the Foundations in Family Therapy Program at The Ackerman Institute for The Family, and completed training in advanced practices for Motivational Interviewing from MINT. Alex completed training at Bellevue hospital and at FEGS, working with adults who have both chronic mental illness and addiction. He has worked with adults, adolescents, and children at the Brooklyn Center for Psychotherapy and on a research team at New York University conducting HIV and substance use research.

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Fentanyl poisoning is currently the leading cause of death for 18-45-year-olds and we need to start having conversations about it to bring more awareness. Today, Michele Lea shares the story of her brother who tragically died from an accidental overdose. The truth is that many of our teens and loved ones are struggling with substance use. It is crucial to educate them about the dangers of substance abuse and to make test strips readily available to possibly save their lives. Tune in to learn how to help with this problem plaguing America.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[1:16] Shifting our vocabulary to “poison” instead of “overdose.
[2:22] The story of Michele’s brother.
[7:58] A standard treatment protocol often does not work for neuro-diverse kids.
[10:08] How can we help this massive problem?
[14:36] The healthcare system is failing in treating addiction.
[18:29] We need to educate people about the dangers of drugs and get testing strips in the hands of those using drugs.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

“Poison” is oftentimes a more appropriate term than “overdose” because it is intentionally added and just a small amount can kill.
It's time to start having conversations about lacing drugs with Fentanyl. It’s the leading cause of death in adults under 50 and we can’t solve the problem if we aren’t talking about it.
Making test strips more readily available will save lives.

RESOURCES:

Joey Biaso GoFundMe

Beyond the Balance Sheet Website

BIO:

Michele Lea is a former NBC journalist and Digital Managing Editor who found a new passion when the heaviness of the world overpowered her love of sharing information with the world. During her time at NBC, she spearheaded digital and social efforts, and admittingly still spends most of her career convincing people about the importance of social media and digital marketing. Today, she is the President/CEO of Imagine Social Media, where she helps businesses create the right blend of digital marketing products and services to elevate their brand.

In her spare time, she uses her voice and social media presence to be an advocate for domestic violence, mental health awareness and more recently, with the loss of her younger brother, the dangers of Fentanyl poisoning.

Michele is a single mother of four grown children and currently resides in both Raleigh, NC and New York.

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Today’s guest is Joe Schrank, a social worker, interventionist, community advocate, and co-founder of “The Fix.” Throughout this episode, Joe discusses the shift in perspective we can have regarding those suffering from addiction. He shares his struggle with addiction, how he went through recovery, and how he helps his clients by meeting them where they are with their addictions. Joe emphasizes that it is necessary to look at all types of recovery instead of thinking that the traditional recovery techniques are the only options. Tune in today to learn more about how you can support someone in your life who is facing addiction, or if you need help with substance use.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[1:40] September is Recovery Month. Joe wants to bring awareness to Recovery Month.
[3:32] How does Joe define recovery?
[6:38] What are other roads to recovery aside from abstinence?
[10:06] Does AA position itself toward a particular group of people?
[15:50] What would it look like if we moved away from criminalization to focus on mental health instead?
[19:00] Why do people of wealth and affluence who live in a bubble not get help?
[23:02] What kind of screening could doctors do to help those with mental illness?
[24:56] What do we value, and why do we not value people with mental health issues (by the way, we all do)?

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

We need to normalize mental health care: talk about it, support people, and offer early intervention to those who need it.
Society would benefit from looking at people who struggle with addiction outside of “they have an addiction” and looking more closely at what they struggle with. People do get better. Recovery is all around us, even if it doesn't look like the “traditional” type of recovery.
Every person will struggle with mental health challenges in their life. Whether it's life changes, divorce, family growth, retirement, or something else, there will be a time when each of us struggles with a mental issue.

BIO:

Social worker, interventionist, community advocate, cofounder of TheFix.com,

Joe Schrank has spent his life in and around active alcoholism. Joe underperformed on the USC campus, preferring to blame coaches and professors than to enter mental health care. After a girl dumped him for his “drinking problem,” Joe joined treatment for depression and alcoholism. After stabilizing, he returned to school and studied clinical social work at Iona College and then the University of Illinois.

Following a tenure at Promises in Malibu, CA, Joe established the first sober living facility in New York City –, Loft 107. Frustrated with the lack of media attention given the recovery community, Joe founded TheFix.com with Maer Roshan. A big believer in “meeting the client where the client is,” Joe founded High Sobriety, the first cannabis-inclusive treatment center, using medicinal cannabis as an option for some people. Joe continues to advocate for public health policy over-incarceration, alcohol tax justice, and ending the violent and racist drug war.

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On this revisited episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, Arden is speaking with investigative writer, Katie Strang about her experience with covering social issues like sexual abuse and gendered violence. Katie writes for the Athletic and has been a leading voice on highlighting mental health awareness among athletes. She talks about why sexual misconduct is more rampant and undercovered within sports. She shares about trauma informed reporting and her mentality when speaking with a victim. Listen as she and Arden talk more about her career, athlete mental health, and self care.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:39] Athletes and mental wellness now versus five to 10 years ago
[04:20] What are the risks for people who share their mental health struggles publicly
[06:08] How specialized do resources need to be for professional athletes
[09:11] Katie shares how she speaks with a victim without triggering them or causing more trauma
[12:21] Why Katie is passionate about telling stories of abuse victims and why sexual misconduct in sports is undercovered
[15:42] How to change the system and decrease the likelihood of sexual abuse happening to minors and young athletes
[18:40] What happens if someone backs out halfway through a story or the facts go in a different direction and other challenges that Katie faces in her career

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

There is this idea that if you make a lot of money, have name recognition, or are a famous athlete, that you are immune from mental health issues. We know that is untrue and thankfully the sports world is providing more resources to support professional athletes from a holistic perspective that includes mental health.
When writing about someone’s trauma or abuse, you have to remember how personal and private that experience is. It belongs to them and no one is entitled to their pain unless they feel comfortable about sharing it. You have to earn their trust and be sensitive without judgment.
There is often an element of institutional protectionism or some sort of enabling from people in power when there is abuse within the sports world. But the pressure shouldn’t fall solely on the athletes to stop abuse. There also needs to be a much greater responsibility on organizations and institutions to protect, especially when it comes to minors and younger athletes.

RESOURCE LINKS

Smashing the stigma: NHL and mental health by Katie Strang

Uncertainty clouds NHL’s future, so union puts players’ mental health in focus by Katie Strang

BIO:

Katie Strang is a senior enterprise and investigative writer for The Athletic, where she specializes in covering the intersection of sports and social issues, with a particular focus on sexual abuse and gendered violence. For her coverage of the Larry Nassar scandal, she was nominated for the Dan Jenkins Medal for Excellence in Sports Writing in 2019. Strang was also a nominee for 2021 National Sportswriter of the Year by the National Sports Media Association.

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We all may know someone who has psychopathy; however, not everyone knows the truth about it, how to identify the warning signs or what to do next once they identify the psychopath. In this revisited episode, Dr. Ron Schouten joins Arden and Diana to discuss the complexities of psychopathy. Dr. Schouten says you should not despair if someone you love shows signs of psychopathy and you should not overreact to their symptoms. Tune in as we chat about what to do when a loved one is diagnosed with psychopathy and how to identify a psychopath at the country club.

In This Episode:

[02:05] Psychopath: meaning, signs, and what to know.
[14:45] How you can identify a psychopath at the country club.
[21:50] What happens when a psychopath comes from enormous wealth?
[24:40] Is your loved one diagnosed with psychopathy? Dr. Schouten explains what you can do now.
[31:10] Even before you get to the diagnosis of psychopathy, start looking at treatment possibilities.

Key Takeaways:

If psychopaths feel entitled to certain wealth and certain privileges, they will act in any way they can to sustain it.
Many psychopaths who come from extreme wealth will never face the consequences of their behavior.
For children, get evaluations done early and find an adolescent psychiatrist.
Some people think residential treatment will be good for psychopathy. However, you need to be careful that the treatment centers are not authoritarian based.

Links Mentioned:

Almost a Psychopath: Do I (or Does Someone I Know) Have a Problem with Manipulation and Lack of Empathy? (The Almost Effect)

PsychopathyIs

Bio:

Ronald Schouten, M.D., J.D. is Director of the Forensic Psychiatry Fellowship at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Washington, DC, Director Emeritus of the Law & Psychiatry Service (LPS) of the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), and Chair of the Association of Threat Assessment Professionals (ATAP) Governmental Affairs Committee. Dr. Schouten previously served as Director of the MGH/Harvard Medical School Forensic Psychiatry Fellowship and is an Associate Professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School.

Dr. Schouten practiced employment law before pursuing his medical studies and career as a forensic and clinical psychiatrist, in which he has served as an expert consultant in criminal and civil matters. He has served as a subject matter expert and consultant on mass violence, biosecurity, and violent extremism. He was the mental health liaison for the Association of Trial Lawyers of America to the September 11 Victims’ Fund and served on consensus panels drafting guidelines on workplace violence for the FBI and the American Society for Industrial Security. Dr. Schouten has been a consultant to the FBI’s National Center for the Analysis of Violent Crime, working with BAU-1 on terrorism and campus shooting matters.

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In this revisited episode, we are joined by Dr. Jason Schiffman. He is the founder and Director of Camden Center, a nationally recognized center of excellence for treating mental health and addictive disorders. First, Jason explains whether celebrities struggle differently than the rest of us and how the support system of a celebrity differs from the general public. Later, Dr. Schiffman discusses the complexities and benefits of group therapy for someone who is in the public eye. Tune in as we speak about the importance of vulnerability to building the foundation of emotional wellbeing.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:30] Do celebrities struggle differently than the rest of us?
[08:50] How does the support system of a celebrity differ from the general public?
[15:35] The problems related to having celebrities in group therapy.
[21:35] The importance of vulnerability to building the foundation of emotional wellbeing.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

The drive that can lead to a sufficient amount of work ethic to become famous is the same thing that can drive you to develop shame-related emotions.
Support happens from anyone who really authentically cares about that person.
Putting a celebrity in a group therapy session can cause problems in terms of the dynamic between that person and the other group members.
To improve your psychological well being, you need to find the strength to be vulnerable.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Website

www.camdencenter.com

BIO:

Jason Schiffman, MD, MA, MBA, is the founder and Director of Camden Center, a nationally recognized center of excellence for the treatment of mental health and addictive disorders located in Los Angeles and San Francisco. He earned his Medical Doctorate and his Master of Business Administration from the University of Southern California (USC) and completed his residency in psychiatry at the UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior where he served as chief resident of the UCLA Anxiety Disorders Program. Upon completion of residency, Dr. Schiffman founded the UCLA Dual Diagnosis Program where he continues to serve as Medical Director. Dr. Schiffman is a diplomate of the National Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and is also board certified in Addiction Medicine.

Dr. Schiffman has extensive research experience in molecular biology and is the author of numerous scientific publications in this field. He is a nationally recognized expert on addiction and co-occurring mood, anxiety, and trauma related disorders, and has written extensively on the subjects of addiction, anxiety, and trauma in both the academic and popular press.

One of Dr. Schiffman's primary interests is the development of novel healthcare systems for the treatment of psychiatric and addictive disorders. His goal in establishing Camden Center was to create a facility where patients could receive world-class treatment that resulted in true recovery.

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Our guest today is Stefan Bate, Chief Clinical Officer at Jaywalker Lodge. Stefan shares his mission as he helps men who have had previous treatment experiences. Stefan reflects on his own recovery journey and the blessings that he has experienced since graduating from Jaywalker and entering the field of psychology. Arden and Stefan discuss the spiritual and emotional elements of hitting rock bottom versus circumstantial consequences. They also dig into the perceptions faced by affluent families in treatment and how Stefan helps families set healthy expectations for treatment.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:33] Stefan’s outlook on his recovery and how recovery changed his career trajectory.
[05:56] When Stefan finally hit rock bottom.
[09:54] Triggering events that happen to people that push them to be all-in for recovery.
[16:04] What’s missing in the psychology field for affluent families?
[22:23] What happens when a family lacks basic education about recovery and unrealistic expectations?
[26:10] Stefan’s advice to someone who is in an active addiction and considering recovery.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Oftentimes someone’s rock bottom is not circumstantial or due to material consequences. It's really an emotional and spiritual rock bottom.
Jaywalker Lodge offers niche treatment for men that have had multiple previous treatment attempts. Men are usually around the age of 28 and have been to three to seven previous treatment experiences.
Often when you scratch the surface of entitlement, it is really a learned helplessness and a deep set of shame beliefs. These men question their abilities and capabilities in the world and don't think that they're going to be able to take care of themselves.

RESOURCE LINKS:

https://jaywalkerlodge.com/

BIO:

Stefan grew up in Northern Iowa before moving to Colorado to study psychology at the University of Denver. Post college, Stefan worked in the banking industry for several years before starting his own recovery journey in 2007. Stefan is a graduate of Jaywalker Lodge, and it was during his own treatment experience that he became interested in pursuing a career in addiction treatment. Stefan holds a Master’s Degree in Applied Psychology from Regis University and is a Licensed Addiction Counselor in the state of Colorado. Stefan has wide-ranging experience in the field of addiction recovery including working as a recovery coach, therapist, and program director. Stefan also has extensive experience designing and implementing addiction treatment and recovery support programs. Helping people engage in effective treatment, building a solid foundation for real world recovery and helping clients’ participate in a life of true fulfillment are his specialties. In his free time, Stefan enjoys playing in the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains and spending quality time with his wife and their two children.

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Today’s guest is Anna Hall, the creator of The Purpose Equation®. Throughout this episode, we discuss the importance of purpose and defining your how and your why. Anna breaks down what purpose is, and how people can go about finding their purpose through her signature equation. Anna says that knowing your purpose equation can determine how to move through life. She believes people’s purpose(s) can shift throughout their lifetime through different milestones. Later in the episode, Anna provides excellent advice for parents supporting their children to determine the child’s purpose by getting curious about their interests. Tune in today to learn about individual purpose and how to create meaning and joy in everyday life.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[1:50] What does the word “purpose” mean?
[3:23] What is the purpose equation? What are the components?
[6:37] How does the purpose equation translate to practical things?
[13:22] Is there a natural time when people re-define their purpose?
[16:15] What is the linkage between mental wellness and a sense of purpose?
[23:53] How do families and parents talk to their children about purpose?
[28:55] What is Anna’s purpose?

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Purpose is not something that you do. What you do is an output of who you are and your why.
Everyone has a purpose. Everyone has the power within themselves to make a difference in the world.
What does your child love? A parents' job is to help unpack WHYs in the activities your children love. Focus on having your child figure out WHO they are, not what they will do. Try to remove SHOULD.

BIO:

Anna was a teenager when she volunteered at a nursing home in her hometown of Hanover, NH. It turned out to be her first step along a 20-year course focused on improving quality of

life for older adults. Along the way she has deployed and managed programs, services, and technologies with that aim. As she gained experience, she developed enrichment programs for older adults living in All Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC), independent, assisted living and memory care settings.

She led CCRC and Skilled Nursing engagement programming for Brookdale Senior Living, the largest senior-living provider in the country. At Connected Living – a social impact company dedicated to connecting older adults with community and family – Anna served as the Chief Purpose Officer. She informed all aspects of the business, from product development to sales to operations, and realized that she loved creating and consulting at the intersection of technology, engagement, and culture. Throughout her career, she has witnessed how purpose builds resilience and improves wellness. Her mission has become helping people define and activate their purpose – in life and work.

In 2018, Anna began building The Purpose Equation®, an evidence-based framework that guides individuals to discover their unique Purpose. The Purpose Equation® LLC launched in July 2021. The framework she invented is the basis for programs and workshops that are designed to identify purpose, spark joy, and personal growth – at any age and in every moment.

Anna Hall’s LinkedIn

The Purpose Equation Website

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Today’s guest is psychotherapist Dr Kristen Zaleski. Dr Zaleski speaks about surviving trauma and the impact trauma has on its victims. She breaks down the different levels of trauma and explains that trauma consists of moments that happen during a high-stress state. Dr. Zaleski discusses how trauma is different for each individual and describes the signs parents should look for in their own children. Tune in today to learn more about how trauma affects individuals and the support people need to work through the trauma they have experienced.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[00:55] Dr. Kristen Zaleski’s background.
[1:52] Is there such a thing as generational trauma, and how does someone break the cycle?
[4:00] How do professionals find a way to provide help but still manage their own lives?
[6:41] Are there differing capacities to the way people handle trauma?
[8:58] We have exposure on a daily basis through social media, the news, etc. Are there different levels of trauma?
[13:18] What should parents look for if their children have experienced trauma?
[18:06] How Dr. Kristen Zaleki sees the connection between those who have experienced trauma and those who are affluent.
[22:38] What do we think about the long term impact of those who were sexually assulted by those in power?

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

The capacity to handle trauma depends on how you were raised as a child and how your self-care and survival strategies are when it comes to stress.
Stress is an important and necessary part of life. The important thing is being able to find a way to regulate the stress and find a way back to homeostasis. It’s important for parents and caregivers to allow their children to experience stress, but also educate them on healthy ways to cope.
There is a lot of blame and discounting of trauma with victims. People need support to shift the narrative from it being their fault to it being a situation that happened. They need help to work through the feelings of stress that come along with trauma.

BIO:

Kristen Zaleski, Ph.D., LCSW is the Clinical Director of the Mental Health Collective, founding director of the USC SDP-Keck Human Rights Clinic, and a past Associate Professor at USC in the School of Social work for the past decade. She is also a psychotherapist in private practice in Hermosa Beach, California. Kristen's research and clinical focus spans two decades with trauma survivors and survivors of human rights abuse. Dr. Zaleski's first book, Understanding and Treating Military Sexual Trauma, is currently in its 2nd edition and is the first social work text on the topic. In November 2019, Oxford University Press published her second book, Women's Journey to Empowerment in the 21st Century, on the topic of transnational feminism and global violence. Dr. Zaleski is an Advisory Board Member to Meta (previously Facebook) on the Global Safety Task Force team and is a trainer at the Department of Defense on sexual violence treatment and theory.

USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck Kristen Zaleski Profile

Dr. Kristen Zaleski’s Website

The Mental Health Collective Website

Dr. Kristen Zaleski’s LinkedIn

Dr. Kristen Zaleski’s Twitter

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Today’s guest is financial planner and writer, Allan Roth. Allan speaks about his unconventional business model of having the lowest client retention rate where he provides clients with a one-time financial plan and then gets fired. Allan and Arden discuss his goal to help people have an exciting life by having an incredibly boring investment plan. As a frequent contributor for publications such as The Wall Street Journal, New York Times, and Bloomberg, Allan explains his simple investment philosophy and the different ways he helps clients to minimize their risk and maximize a high return.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:57] Allan’s investment philosophy and how he manages client’s risk and fear during uncertainty.
[05:10] Allan’s business model and thoughts on a holistic approach to investing.
[08:00] Who can this model work for: Allan’s low client retention model.
[10:33] Minimizing risk through investment sectors and index funds versus individual companies.
[16:36] Generational investing and advice for future financial advisors.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

One way to experience success in investing is having discipline to stick to your financial plan. This means buying and selling even when it’s difficult. The older we get, the more money means to us and the harder it is to invest but we have to remain disciplined.
If you own thousands of companies, you’re taking a smart risk. You’re minimizing the risk in the market. The market itself is risky, but this way you’re maximizing the probability of having a good outcome.
Allan encourages clients to own the entire market. Sometimes, clients don’t want to invest in certain sectors because of a lack of understanding or having certain religious beliefs that don’t align with company values. Invest in all industries, take the profits earned from those low cost index funds, and then contribute that to whatever cause they believe in.

BIO:

Allan is a financial planner and writer. His investment columns can be found in publications such as AARP, Barron’s, ETF.com, and Advisor Perspectives. Allan has been an adjunct finance faculty member at Colorado College, the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs, and the University of Denver. He is frequently quoted in such publications as The Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Bloomberg, and others. Allan is the founder of Wealth Logic, LLC, an hourly-based financial planning and investment advisory firm. Neither he nor the firm has ever charged commissions or fees based on assets under management. The goal of his firm is to provide clients with a one-time plan and then get fired. Allan is proud to have the lowest client retention rate in the business. Allan is a licensed CPA and CFP and has an MBA from Northwestern University (Kellogg), but still claims he can keep investing simple, at least as simple as possible, given very complex tax issues in developing a plan.

Allan Roth Website

Allan Roth on LinkedIn

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Today, we are joined by Patricia Angus, Founder and CEO of Angus Advisory Group LLC. For more than 25 years, Patricia has provided legal and strategic advice to global families and firms with multi-generational businesses, trusts, and philanthropies. She and Arden discuss estate planning with mental health and addiction issues in mind. Patricia outlines the first steps that families need to take before starting their estate plans. She explains the important mix of legal and psychological training that advisors need to best serve their clients. Listen for insightful information and tools that families can use when they begin their estate plan preparation.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:22] Learn about the Angus Advisory Group and how to create an estate plan with mental health and addiction issues in mind.
[05:50] Issues that advisors face when they work with clients who have substance use or mental health issues, plus information families need to share when planning their estate.
[10:20] What tools can families use to prepare for estate planning?
[12:29] What happens when families withhold important information?
[17:45] Siblings serving as trustees for their siblings' trust.
[22:15] The exciting legal future of supporting high net worth families.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

If you are a trained lawyer, your education did not include psychological training. However, it behooves lawyers to get psychological training so they may better serve their clients.
The most important thing to do before scheduling any meetings to plan your estate is to engage in some soul-searching. Think about your values, goals, and the messages you want to leave behind.
When assigning a trustee, make sure they have the right qualifications to do what trustees must do, which include three basic things. They have to administer, invest, and distribute the assets of the trust they received from the grantor or set loan.

BIO:

Patricia M. Angus, JD, MIA, TEP: Founder and CEO, Angus Advisory Group LLC; Adjunct Professor, founding Managing Director of the Global Family Enterprise Program, and Faculty Director of Enterprising Families Executive Education, Columbia University’s Graduate School of Business. For over 25 years, she has provided legal and strategic advice to global families and firms with multi-generational businesses, trusts, and philanthropy. Publications include: The Beneficiary Primer: A Guide for Beneficiaries of Family Trusts and The Trustee Primer: A Guide for Personal Trustees. Advisory Boards of Trusts & Estates and the Carter Center. Fellow of and faculty member for FFI. Advanced Certificate in Family Wealth Advising and a Certificate in Family Business Advising from FFI. 2019 FFI Achievement Award in the Field of Family

Enterprise, the Interdisciplinary Award.

B.A. cum laude, Amherst College; Masters in International Affairs, Columbia University

School of International and Public Affairs; J.D. George Washington University Law School

https://angusadvisorygroup.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/pangus/

The Trustee Primer

The Beneficiary Primer

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In this episode, Arden speaks with her dear friend and professional mentor, Bill Messinger. Bill, a retired lawyer, is an alcohol counselor and leading expert in helping affluent families with substance use issues. Arden and Bill start the conversation by discussing whether affluent families have higher rates of substance use, in addition to the stigma experienced by affluent families and the treatment they receive. Bill explains how consequences are key to helping people with addictive disorders and how families have to understand the long-term nature of recovery. This is a great conversation for those who have loved ones with substance use disorders and for professionals seeking to better serve affluent families.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[03:24] Do affluent families have higher rates of substance use and what’s the reason given their financial resources?
[07:24] Why is there a stigma when affluent people get help with substance abuse disorders and what do treatment centers, or other types of providers need to do to decrease their clients’ nervousness?
[11:00] How important are consequences for wealthy people with addictive disorders and how do they vary from those who are of more modest means?
[13:16] What to do when the leverage used, or the consequences incurred are harder to define based on the person's affluent position.
[18:29] How can wealth management professionals help clients who may be struggling with a substance use disorder?
[21:04] How to address a family member’s struggle with substance use and how industry professionals can improve the recovery system.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Data show it may take four to six treatment cycles for a person to become stable. Families have to understand that recovery is not a 30 day or one-and-done proposition, it's a long term process that has to be managed by professionals.
One reason affluent families do not seek professional treatment for substance use issues is because there is prejudice against the wealthy. This prejudice is rampant in our society and often results in affluent family members being treated poorly in recovery groups and at treatment facilities.
Affluent families should consider adding a clause to every trust that reduces access to funds if there is an addiction problem and gives the trust manager the power to hire experts to help the beneficiary get the recovery they need.

BIO:

Bill is a retired lawyer and alcohol counselor who grew up in a family business on one side, trusts on the other side, and alcoholism on all sides. After completing treatment in 1995, Bill was surprised at the high relapse rates of his peer group. In 1997, he learned about the excellent outcomes for pilots and doctors. He began applying their treatment programs to other groups, including the well-off and well-known, to improve recovery rates. He is a leading expert on what works in recovery for the affluent and prominent and he has written numerous articles on this topic.

Bill is also an advocate for treatment reform because the current system is ineffective and needs to be converted to a community-based system with a focus on long-term management. He contends that we need to stop blaming the addict for treatment failures and, instead, take a hard look at the failings and distorted economic incentives of the delivery system - both private and public.

https://billmessinger.com/

https://www.corimn.org/

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We are honored to have Dr. Bill Stixrud as our guest today. Dr. Stixrud is a clinical neuropsychologist and founder of the The Stixrud Group. He is the co-author of the national bestselling book, The Self-Driven Child: The Science and Sense of Giving Your Kids More Control Over Their Lives. Diana and Dr. Stixrud discuss the false assumptions that self-driven children of affluent families face. They discuss the benefits of medication and other behavioral strategies for children with ADD and ADHD, as well as how neuropsych testing can help kids be more confident and successful in school. Dr. Stixrud gives advice on how parents can have high expectations yet still allow their kids to be successful in their own way.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:40] What does a neuropsychologist do and what neuropsych tests tell about children and their skills?
[04:03] False assumptions about self-driven children and perfect educational pathways.
[10:50] The balance between high expectations and high support for children to be successful.
[13:01] How neuropsych testing can help kids be more successful in school.
[16:23] Does medication for ADD and ADHD work?
[19:57] Other behavioral strategies for those diagnosed with ADHD.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Many children of affluent families in high achieving schools don’t feel as close to their parents. We recommend, more than anything else, that parents spend time alone with each one of their kids.
Parents must balance their expectations. Express confidence in your children to let them know they can do something really interesting in this world and let them know you'll support them however you can. Don’t weigh children down with the idea that somehow there's only one path for them.
If children are suffering from ADD or ADHD, or it’s holding them back from being successful in school, try medication. See how it works for your child, and then decide whether to continue to use it or not.

BIO:

William R. Stixrud, Ph.D., is a clinical neuropsychologist and founder of The Stixrud Group. He is a faculty member at Children’s National Medical Center and an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Pediatrics at the George Washington University School of Medicine. He is the co-author, with Ned Johnson, of the national bestselling book, The Self-Driven Child: The Science and Sense of Giving Your Kids More Control Over Their Lives, and of their new book, What do You Say? Talking with Kids to Build Motivation, Stress Tolerance, and a Happy Home. Dr. Stixrud’s work has been featured in media outlets such as NPR, CNN, MSNBC, The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Times of London, The Wall Street Journal, U.S. News and World Report, Time Magazine, Scientific American, Business Week, Barron’s, and New York Magazine. He is a long-time practitioner of Transcendental Meditation, and he plays in the rock band, Close Enough.

The Stixrud Group Website

The Self-Driven Child Website

Prep Talks Podcast Website

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Today's guest is Dr. Jamie Weiner, a psychologist and author of ‘Quest For Legitimacy.’ In his book, he interviewed many rising generation individuals from across the world about what it’s like to grow up in affluent or prominent families. His research focuses on breaking moments and how they impact a person’s quest for purpose and fulfillment. Diana and Dr. Weiner discuss finding purpose when options seem unlimited. He offers advice for prominent families of rising generations.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:22] “What is it like growing up in the land of giants?” A frequently asked question Dr. Weiner receives.
[05:04] Breaking moments and family estrangement.
[08:53] Advice for parents of rising generations.
[11:33] The difficulty of finding purpose when options are so abundant.
[14:33] Exploration and a woman's quest for legitimacy.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Most people experience a moment where there was a disruption between what they anticipated their life was going to be and how it turned out to be.
The rising generation is one of the most observed generations. There's a lot of wealth and family governance that makes it difficult for them to discover who they are and how they're going to empower themselves.
A third of all college students are seeking out some kind of mental health treatment for anxiety, loneliness, depression or because they are generally overwhelmed with the number of choices they have available.

BIO:

Jamie Weiner, a psychologist, is co-founder of Quest for Legitimacy. Along with Russ Haworth, a family business adviser, Dr. Weiner had a series of intimate conversations with rising gen from around the world started which started with one simple question; “What is it like growing up in the land of giants?” “Moving forward our mission is to support those raised in prominent families from around the globe to successfully navigate their quest for legitimacy,”said Dr. Weiner. After researchers from the University of Adelaide in Australia analyzed the conversations, the book, The Quest for Legitimacy: How Children of Prominent Families Find Their Unique Place in the World, brought the stories to life. Breaking through the isolation felt by many, the book, the website and a dedicated series of Russ’s podcast reaches out to those who grew up in these families, their family members and those who serve them.

Jamie Weiner Website

Jamie Weiner Podcast

Jamie Weiner on Instagram

Jamie Weiner on LinkedIn

Jamie Weiner on Twitter

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Today we are joined by Dr. James Greenblatt, an acknowledged integrative medicine expert, educator, and author who focuses on nutritional interventions in psychiatry and mental illness. Dr. Greenblatt dives into how the medical field needs to focus on the whole body of each individual patient. He discusses the importance of vitamins and minerals in the diet to help protect our brains from dementia and Alzheimer’s. Dr. Greenblatt says that the key to healthy aging combines lifestyle and functional medicine. Tune in to hear all the preventative measures you can do now to help with brain health!

IN THIS EPISODE:

[1:22] What role does nutrition play in mental health?
[5:10] Simple tests to determine a 40-50-year-old's risk for dementia were not part of a doctor's medical practice.
[6:08] How is lithium linked to dementia, and are there any risks associated with using it?
[10:22] What are some of the most commonly missed diagnoses in older adults?
[12:20] What other non-nutritional things Dr. Greenblatt recommends for people to achieve maximum integrative health?
[13:40] Genetic loading - what does that mean?
[14:42] What is the first action Dr. Greenblatt would take for someone struggling with depression?
[17:49] Recent case studies that Dr. Greenblatt has experienced.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Don’t be passive. Get the information you need if you are experiencing memory loss or if you don’t know what's going on. Be your own advocate and get tested.
Genetics plays a big role, but often nutritional or biochemical, relationships, social, and brain-stimulating activities affect brain health.
Connect the body and brain. The issues that arise aren’t an either-or but often a whole-body problem. Nutrition is the fuel our body needs to operate at an optimum level. Vitamins and minerals are cofactors.

BIO:

Dr. Greenblatt has lectured internationally on the scientific evidence for nutritional interventions in psychiatry and mental illness. He is the author of seven books, including Finally Focused: The Breakthrough Natural Treatment Plan for ADHD. He is the founder of Psychiatry Redefined, an educational platform dedicated to the transformation of psychiatry.The platform offers online CME-approved courses, webinars, and fellowships for professionals about functional and integrative medicine for mental illness.

Jame’s Greenblatt Website

About Low Dose Lithium

Psychiatry_Redefined Instagram

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In this revisited episode of Beyond the Balance sheet, we are joined by Tavan Pechet, founder of Pechet Advisors, where he provides management consulting to affluent families. Relationship risk management is a way to manage the critically essential assets of relationships. Tavan reveals all of the reasons you need to manage relationship risk and the critical elements for successful family mediation. Tune in as we chat about managing conflict and communication with families who disagree and the importance of due diligence, even with your family members.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:30] How risk management applies to relationships.
[04:30] Families need to think about what it means to manage relationship risk.
[08:55] The key elements for a successful family mediation.
[13:40] Managing conflict and communication with families who are disagreeing over an inheritance.
[19:20] Family due diligence: what to know before investing in a family-owned business.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Be proactive and manage family relationships before a crisis occurs.
Find a third party mediator to help you and your family find common ground.
Families don’t always need to stay together. Sometimes family relationships and assets will be better off when there’s a split.
You still need to do due diligence when going into business with your family.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Website

www.pechetadvisors.com

Instagram

BIO:

Tavan Pechet is the founder of Pechet Advisors where he provides management consulting to wealthy families. He helps them design, build, and manage their operations to navigate complex family wealth matters. He has advised clients from entrepreneurs to inheritors to widows, controlling assets from $20 million to $5 billion.

Previously, Tavan spent a decade as CEO of a multi-generational family office. He also served as an executive of that family’s operating business and as Trustee of their family trusts.

He has also worked as an executive for a venture-backed tech company, practiced law, and clerked for a federal judge. Tavan earned his AB from Harvard College, his JD from Harvard Law School, and his MBA from UCLA Anderson.

Grateful for his good fortune, Tavan donates time and money to gender equity, veterans’ affairs, democracy reform, and the environment.

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Today, we’re switching up topics to discuss insurance coverage with Tamar Silberberg-Shiffman. Tamar is the co-founder of Concierge Insurance Solutions and works with high net worth clients to provide an adequate safety net to protect their families and assets. Diana and Tamar discuss why insurance is necessary, what types of insurance high-net-worth clients need, and the elements to look for when exploring insurance companies. Listen in to learn what gaps you might have in your own coverage and how to expand your safety net to create peace of mind.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:20] How to switch careers from real estate to insurance.
[04:10] How does wealth affect the type of insurance that people are buying?
[06:40] The two main changes that are affecting high-net-worth individuals.
[12:00] How to locate good insurance.
[14:20] Does the risk of not having insurance outweigh the cost of having insurance?
[15:50] Different needs for different generations.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

There are two major changes from the last 15 years that are affecting the high net worth clients: the first is technology and the second is climate change.
Families of affluence are more susceptible to lawsuits and excess liability, which is also known as umbrella coverage. It is their first line of defense when a lawsuit is filed.
There's been a tremendous uptick in cyber claims. Corporations are not the only target anymore. Everyone is. Act proactively and take precautions before a tragic accident might threaten your assets.

BIO:

Tamar Silberberg Shiffman is co-founder of Concierge Insurance Solutions. Prior to co-founding Concierge Insurance Solutions, she and her husband built a multi-million dollar real estate business where she developed the luxury residential side of the company. Tamar’s passion for high end real estate adds a unique approach to protecting the client’s most valuable assets.

Concierge Insurance Solutions Website

CIS Analytics Website

Tamar Shiffman on LinkedIn

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Tom McCullough is Chairman and CEO of Northwood Family Office, a Toronto-based multi-family office serving the comprehensive needs of families of significant net worth. In this episode, Tom discusses how he supports families during financial and emotional transitions and reveals how he builds trust with families to disclose sensitive information. Tune in as we chat about preparing for the unexpected when it comes to family planning, the inspiration behind Tom’s books, and the advice Tom would give a former version of himself.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:50] How Tom supports families during financial and emotional transitions.
[06:20] Tom speaks about getting people to disclose sensitive information to him as an advisor.
[11:55] Ways to prepare for the unexpected when it comes to family planning.
[17:40] The inspiration behind Tom’s book, The Top 50 Questions Wealthy Families Ask
[22:15] The advice that Tom would give a former version of himself.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Advisors need to know what they are qualified and capable of dealing with. While on the other hand, they also need to know when it’s time for a professional referral.
A family office should be objective; that way, it will bring clients into a zone of trust.
Be easier on yourself and others.
Practice more grace.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Website

www.northwoodfamilyoffice.com

Books

'Wealth of Wisdom: The Top 50 Questions Wealthy Families Ask' and 'Family Wealth Management: 7 Imperatives for Successful Investing in the New World Order'

The Top 50 Questions Wealthy Families Ask

www.wealthofwisdombook.com/podcast/

BIO:

Tom McCullough is Chairman and CEO of Northwood Family Office, a Toronto-based multi-family office serving the comprehensive needs of families of significant net worth. He is also the co-author of 'Wealth of Wisdom: The Top 50 Questions Wealthy Families Ask' and 'Family Wealth Management: 7 Imperatives for Successful Investing in the New World Order'.

Tom has spent over 30 years in the wealth management/ family office field, initially in senior executive roles with RBC wealth management. The combination of this background, along with his own family's need for a truly comprehensive, customized and confidential service, led him to found one of Canada's first multi-family offices, dedicated to families looking for objective advice and boutique-style service. Northwood has quickly become one of the leaders in its field and has been consistently recognized as the top independent family office in Canada by Euromoney in its global private banking survey.

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In this revisited episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, we are speaking with Dr. Lesley Tate-Gould, Co-founder and Executive Director of Lido Wellness Center (LWC). She was inspired to open LWC after becoming aware of the gaps in residential treatment facilities for adults and adolescents with mental health conditions related to addiction and eating disorders. First, Dr. Tate-Gould shares how LWC differs from other treatment facilities by looking beyond a patient’s external symptoms. The conversation shifts to address how the pursuit of success in our hustle-obsessed culture affects us more than we realize. Listen as Dr. Lesley Tate-Gould talks about a healthier view of success and achievement and the balance our minds and bodies desire.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:20] Dr. Tate-Gould shares about founding Lido Wellness Center (LWC)
[03:20] What sets LWC apart from other outpatient treatment centers?
[05:40] What is success and how has culture created a toxic environment?
[13:15] What are the effects on the body when we hustle without balance?
[16:24] Dr. Tate-Gould shares her definition of success

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

As human beings, we are magnificent in our capacity, but we also require time to quietly reflect, turn inward, and slow down. Our culture has ignored this and emphasizes a “hustle” mentality that disregards the inevitability of burnout.
We cannot be everything at every moment. It's okay to focus on what matters, even if that means pushing pause on something else. It's okay to stop over-scheduling appointments and engagements to appease someone else’s expectations.
Curiosity, creativity, and adventure are at the heart of discovering success.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Website: www.LidoWellnessCenter.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lidowellnesscenter

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lidowellness/

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/lidowellnesscenter/

BIO:

Dr. Lesley Tate-Gould is a Co-founder and the Executive Director of Lido Wellness Center (LWC). She was inspired to open LWC following her experience working in residential treatment facilities specializing in addiction and eating disorders for both adults and adolescents. Through her work, she gained a robust knowledge of the complexities of higher care and became aware of the gaps in mental health outpatient treatment, discovering a lack of robust clinical accessibility for addressing underlying mental conditions once substance disorders were addressed. Determined to fill those care gaps, she co-founded LWC as a primary mental health outpatient treatment facility for the local community and patients from treatment programs around the county.

Dr. Tate-Gould specializes in mood disturbances, trauma-related disorders, personality disorders, and secondary substance-use and eating disorders. As a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), Dr. Tate-Gould engages with patients in new and mindful ways, such as using gentle, intuitive methods to produce enhanced understandings of the physiological components related to trauma. Paired expertly with other treatment modalities, she supports healing by assisting patients in achieving a greater awareness of themselves in a supportive and compassionate environment dedicated, foremost, to improving their health and well-being.In her multiple roles as owner, executive director, and clinician, Dr. Tate-Gould thrives on professional variety and encourages collaboration with her team, allowing the flexibility to incorporate unique perspectives on techniques and healing approaches for LWC patients.

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Today’s guest on Beyond the Balance Sheet is Ned Van Zandt, a well-known actor and writer who has dedicated his time to helping those who struggle with substance use disorders and other mental health diagnoses. Ned is no stranger to the world of recovery because he has had his fair share of experiences with a transitional living home and has benefited from sobriety and mental health programs. Diana and Ned talk about his work as Program Director of Transcend Recovery NY and how giving back to others has been life-changing in his own story with addiction and recovery.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:11] What drives Ned to do this work with others in the recovery realm
[09:40] The world of acting, addiction, and the potential for self-aggrandizement
[10:36] The counter intuitive act of giving back
[12:44] The power of aiding and connecting with others
[15:13] The nuances of tough love
[16:32] Advice from Ned

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Helping other people actually helps you in your recovery process. It’s a counter intuitive thought but focusing on others helps you heal.
In Ned’s experience, tough love and a refusal from his family to bail him out in his time of need were both the worst and best experiences of his life.
There is a positive neurochemical response associated with giving back. When we give without expectation of receiving, our oxytocin and dopamine levels elevate!

BIO:

Ned Van Zandt has more than 15 years experience in the world of recovery. He is Program Director at Transcend Recovery NY. He has a passion for helping those who struggle with substance use disorder and other mental health diagnoses. He was inspired to work in the field after his own personal experience living in a transitional living home, which made him believe people can recover and change their lives for the better. Ned is also an actor and writer who has appeared in films, television and on Broadway.

Ned Van Zandt is best known for his roles in the films Coming Home, MacArthur, The Iron Orchard and HBO’s All The Way, as well as his work on shows “The Blacklist,” “Power,” “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and his very own one man show Del Valle.

Transcend Recovery Website

Ned Van Zandt Website

Ned Van Zandt on LinkedIn

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In this episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, we are revisiting Gary Mendell’s episode. Gary Mendell is the founder and CEO of Shatterproof, a national nonprofit focused on reversing the addiction crisis in America. Gary’s son, Brian, tried drugs and alcohol which ultimately led to addiction. Unfortunately, Brian died of this addiction disease that affects more than 22 million Americans every day. Gary discusses the warning signs that families should look out for, when worried if their child may be using substances. Listen as Gary talks about Shatterproof and how they are changing the country’s consciousness around addiction.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:25] Gary shares his journey and his experience as a family with his son.
[07:20] Advice Gary gives families who are worried about their children using substances.
[16:45] How financial resources can help or hinder the process of recovering from addiction.
[21:20] Shatterproof is looking to help people with substance use disorder get the chance to find recovery
[24:10] How the field of recovery will look in the future.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Addiction is a treatable chronic illness. Every person with a substance use disorder deserves the chance to find recovery.
There were more than 93,000 fatal overdoses in 2020.
80% of people say they don’t want a friend, colleague, or neighbor with addiction. We need to reverse the shame around addiction.
Addiction is not a moral failing; you need to get the facts about this misunderstood medical condition.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Website

https://www.shatterproof.org

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/ShatterproofHQ/

https://linktr.ee/shatterproof

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/weareshatterproof

Twitter

https://twitter.com/ShatterproofHQ

BIO:

Gary Mendell is the founder and CEO of Shatterproof, a national nonprofit focused on reversing the course of the addiction crisis in America. After losing his son Brian to addiction in 2011, Gary founded Shatterproof to spare other families the tragedy his had suffered. Since founding Shatterproof in 2012, Mr. Mendell has been a national leader in the addiction space creating solutions that will create more access to treatment for Opioid and Substance Use Disorders including the creation of the Shatterproof National Principles of Care to guide providers, payers, and patients to quality treatment. He advocates for state and federal policy changes, and most recently launched a national strategy and call to action to address stigma related to Opioid and Substance Use Disorders.

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Did you know that children as young as four years old can start developing poor body image? Today on Beyond the Balance Sheet, Arden is speaking to Rebecca Manley about eating disorder awareness and prevention. Rebecca is the founder of MEDA (Multi-service Eating Disorders Association) and owner of Manley Coaching. Her passion is working with teens and families on issues related to body image and self-esteem. We are talking about how to teach body positivity to kids, what signs to look for in your child’s relationship with food, and the fine line between eating healthy and restrictive eating. This is a really important conversation you don’t want to miss out on!

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:16] What are signs of a negative body image developing and how can parents encourage body positivity
[09:05] Are eating disorders more prevalent in high achieving and affluent families
[13:05] The fine line between healthy behaviors and restrictive eating habits
[18:08] How to intervene in situations when diet culture is praised within a family
[24:00] How to navigate situations when parents aren’t on the same page about what their child needs
[28:25] What is the future of body image and self esteem issues in families

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Children as young as four and five are starting to develop a poor body image saying that they dislike parts of their bodies. And approximately 20% of college females will struggle with an eating disorder during college. We need greater awareness and prevention of eating disorders.
The Five A’s help parents teach children how to protect against the development of eating disorder: Kids need to be assertive and speak up for what they believe in; have awareness of societal pressures; have acceptance of their bodies; know the appropriate action to regulate emotions; have ample opportunities for activity and healthy movement.
Parents need to understand that high stress environments that emphasize achievement or a certain body image increase the risk for the development of an eating disorder. Parents need to be mindful of the messages they are sending to their children..

BIO:

Rebecca Manley, is a trained coach and a member of the International Coach Federation as well as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and Certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) . Rebecca is best known for her work in eating disorder awareness and prevention. Rebecca has published her curriculum entitled, "Teaching Body Confidence" which has been featured on the televised news programs World News Tonight on ABC News, 48 Hours news on CBS as well as many other national and local stations. In addition to body image, Rebecca also specialize in treating anxiety related to school, sports, family and social relationships.

Rebecca Manley is also the founder of MEDA, Inc, also known as the Multi-service Eating Disorders Association. MEDA is a national organization dedicated to the prevention and treatment of eating disorders. MEDA serves as a resource to those struggling with eating disorders and their families. MEDA also serves as a support network for schools and universities as well as a training program for professionals offering a comprehensive internship program, supervision groups and a national conference held every spring. Now twenty-five years old, MEDA is internationally known for its unique treatment model as well as for its innovative educational programming.

Rebecca Manley Website

Rebecca Manley on LinkedIn

https://oconnorpg.com/podcasts/eating-disorders-and-the-role-of-family-support-with-rebecca-manley

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On this episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, Arden is speaking with Brad Sorte, about a topic that hits close to home for them both – facing addiction as a family. Brad talks about his struggle with substance abuse in his early 20s and his life-altering treatment experience at Caron, a treatment facility for addiction and behavioral health issues where he is now the President and CEO. They discuss the benefits and hindrances that families with resources face when dealing with a child with substance use disorder and how healing is accelerated when healthy boundaries are in place. Brad offers advice for parents of younger children on how to be proactive in having conversations about substance and alcohol use. Tune into this encouraging discussion about family therapy, trauma, and positive changes happening in the field.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:35] Brad shares about his background with substance abuse and treatment at Caron
[11:13] When a family has resources, how does it help or hinder the process of recovery
[16:16] How to address destructive family systems in order to help children with substance abuse
[22:40] Best advice for parents of young children when there is a predisposition or possibility for substance abuse
[27:52] What changes are happening in the field of addiction treatment

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Money is like electricity and it is a very powerful tool that can be used for tremendous good and growth, but it's also something that needs to be respected and it can be very destructive and it can be lethal.
It’s important to identify what the families of the identified patient have been through and how to help them refocus their energy on themselves and not solely focus on the loved one, who is in the midst of a self-destructive cycle
Kids have access to information with less adult supervision at earlier ages through smartphones and peer groups. Parents of younger children should consider having conversations about substance use and alcohol, in an age appropriate way, sooner rather than later.

RESOURCE LINKS

Caron Website

Brad Sorte Webpage

The Medicine, Science & Art Behind Addiction Recovery - Caron Blog

https://oconnorpg.com/podcasts/the-elephant-in-the-room-facing-addiction-as-a-family-with-brad-sorte

BIO:

As President & CEO, Brad oversees Caron’s extensive continuum of care for teens, young adults, adults, older adults, and families at its facilities in Pennsylvania and Florida, its outpatient treatment centers in Atlanta, Philadelphia,Northern Virginia, and Wyomissing, Pa., and its recovery centers in New York City and Washington, D.C.

Brad Sorte was appointed President & CEO following Doug Tieman’s retirement in July 2021. Backed by his extensive experience in both business and clinical leadership roles, Brad has a rich foundation to continue to propel Caron's mission and thought leadership forward. He remains committed to his goal of providing a culture in which the business of healthcare never interferes with the fundamental needs of each individual patient.

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Cindy Finch has experienced her fair share of grief and loss and now helps others process and grow from trauma. On this episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, Arden and Cindy discuss coping with uncertainty and how ultimately, grief is good. Cindy shares her personal experience with grief related to life altering illnesses. She also talks about how unhelpful parenting techniques can cause further pain for children as they grow up. Listen in as Cindy shares about her work with affluent families and the challenges they face related to grief and the invaluable lessons that we learn from times of loss.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:48] How we can grow from times of grief and loss and what we can learn
[04:59] What led Cindy down this certain career path
[08:10] How to help people cope with uncertainty
[12:16] Parenting: How to avoid offering unhelpful help to your children
[19:33] The misconception of there being a hierarchy of trauma
[24:05] What Cindy wishes she knew about the mental health field before she started
[26:26] How to balance the heaviness of a career in human suffering

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Grief is good. We want to resist things that are difficult, crushing, painful, and disappointing. Yet, we find that those very things are the best teachers that we can find to solidify ourselves and learn important lessons from.
There is a skill called Coping Ahead that helps people walk through the unknowns of a situation.You lay out the details with all of the contingencies and possibilities. Work them through in your mind and mentalize that you could in fact deal with any of those outcomes. Then find something within yourself to rely on and also seek people out that can give you support.
When you fragilize your child and protect them and try to smooth out all the bumps of life, you are denying them the ability to build the muscles needed to handle life. If you deny them of consequences and the opportunity to gain independence and confidence then everything in their life is going to be much harder.

RESOURCE LINKS

Cindy Finch Website

Cindy's Grief Tribe

Cindy’s Journey: Cindy Finch on walking with God through illness

Cindy’s Book: When Grief Is Good: Turning Your Greatest Loss into Your Biggest Lesson

https://oconnorpg.com/podcasts/growing-through-grief-learning-from-your-loss-with-cindy-finch/

BIO:

Since completing her Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work and training at The Mayo Clinic, Cindy has gone on to develop specialties in parenting today’s teens and young adults, post-trauma growth, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, complex family interventions, traumatic loss and grief work, and the management of a life-altering illness. Since 2013, she has authored and published works that have appeared in the LA Times, St. Anthonys’ Press, Huffington Post, Chasing the Cure, Rochester Women’s Magazine and more. She has spent thousands of hours doing therapy, parenting, leading and helping others. She now works as a California-based therapist and leadership coach. Her new book, When Grief is Good - turning your greatest loss into your biggest lesson came out in September and was ranked as Amazon's top new book in grief, growth, and psychology when it was released.

When Grief Is Good: Turning Your Greatest Loss into Your Biggest Lesson

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On this episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, Arden is speaking with investigative writer, Katie Strang about her experience with covering social issues like sexual abuse and gendered violence. Katie writes for the Athletic and has been a leading voice on highlighting mental health awareness among athletes. She talks about why sexual misconduct is more rampant and undercovered within sports. She shares about trauma informed reporting and her mentality when speaking with a victim. Listen as she and Arden talk more about her career, athlete mental health, and self care.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:39] Athletes and mental wellness now versus five to 10 years ago
[04:20] What are the risks for people who share their mental health struggles publicly
[06:08] How specialized do resources need to be for professional athletes
[09:11] Katie shares how she speaks with a victim without triggering them or causing more trauma
[12:21] Why Katie is passionate about telling stories of abuse victims and why sexual misconduct in sports is undercovered
[15:42] How to change the system and decrease the likelihood of sexual abuse happening to minors and young athletes
[18:40] What happens if someone backs out halfway through a story or the facts go in a different direction and other challenges that Katie faces in her career

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

There is this idea that if you make a lot of money, have name recognition, or are a famous athlete, that you are immune from mental health issues. We know that is untrue and thankfully the sports world is providing more resources to support professional athletes from a holistic perspective that includes mental health.
When writing about someone’s trauma or abuse, you have to remember how personal and private that experience is. It belongs to them and no one is entitled to their pain unless they feel comfortable about sharing it. You have to earn their trust and be sensitive without judgment.
There is often an element of institutional protectionism or some sort of enabling from people in power when there is abuse within the sports world. But the pressure shouldn’t fall solely on the athletes to stop abuse. There also needs to be a much greater responsibility on organizations and institutions to protect, especially when it comes to minors and younger athletes.

RESOURCE LINKS

Smashing the stigma: NHL and mental health by Katie Strang

Uncertainty clouds NHL’s future, so union puts players’ mental health in focus by Katie Strang

BIO:

Katie Strang is a senior enterprise and investigative writer for The Athletic, where she specializes in covering the intersection of sports and social issues, with a particular focus on sexual abuse and gendered violence. For her coverage of the Larry Nassar scandal, she was nominated for the Dan Jenkins Medal for Excellence in Sports Writing in 2019. Strang was also a nominee for 2021 National Sportswriter of the Year by the National Sports Media Association.

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Prior to entering the wealth management industry, Todd Carey played professional baseball over eight seasons which makes him all too familiar with strategic planning, high achievement and high pressure environments. On this episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, Todd discusses how the limelight on professional athletes has increased in the last decade and the importance of keeping your identity and career separate. Listen in as Arden and Todd talk about helping clients who struggle with mental health challenges and how the pandemic has changed his financial planning priorities.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:39] Todd’s transition from a career in professional baseball to wealth management
[07:21] The importance of having a financial plan during uncertain times and what are characteristics of those who have financial challenges when there's volatility in the markets
[11:14] How has the pandemic redefined clients and their long-term planning goals
[13:57] Todd speaks to his experience with clients who struggle with mental health challenges and how it impacts their financial planning
[17:06] What happens when there are concerns about a client's financial wishes related to a family member who has mental health issues
[19:29] Has the stigma around mental health lessened for professional athletes?
[25:18] Todd shares career advice he would give his 25 year old self

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

When planning with a family member who has mental health or addiction issues, it’s great to have a professional available to help the family openly communicate, discuss the issues, establish their values and evaluate the long-term effectiveness of their plan.
Our identity often gets defined by our careers. It’s important to think about the future and what are the next stages, not just financially, but in general with your life and how you find purpose and how you are fulfilled on a daily basis.
There is more and more pressure on professional athletes. Everything has been ramped up and escalated in the last 10 to 15 years which puts more pressure on the athletes themselves, whether they're in a team framework or individual sports. Organizations and managers need to be more sensitive to this and have resources to help athletes.

RESOURCE LINKS

Todd Carey Website

Todd Carey on LinkedIn

Website Show Notes Page - https://oconnorpg.com/podcasts/building-financial-resilience-with-todd-carey

BIO:

Todd Carey is no stranger to strategic planning, execution and dedication to helping others succeed. Prior to entering the wealth management industry, he played professional baseball over eight seasons with the Boston Red Sox, New York Mets and Los Angeles Dodgers. He brings that level of talent and commitment to UBS Boston Private Wealth Management, where he and partner, Joseph McKeever, provide advice and solutions to an exclusive group of affluent families, entrepreneurs and executives.

Additionally, as an Endowment & Foundation Consultant (EFC), Todd utilizes UBS' deep knowledge, resources and thought leadership to develop investment plans tailored to nonprofits.

Before joining UBS, Todd was an Executive Director and Senior Banker for six years at J.P. Morgan Private Bank in Boston. There he customized investment, lending, banking and estate planning advice for ultra and high net worth individuals and families. Prior to joining J.P. Morgan Private Bank, he was a Principal at Battery Ventures in Waltham, MA, for almost three years. Todd began his career in Private Wealth Management as an Investment Representative at Lehman Brothers in Boston, where he worked for five years.

Todd received his B.A. in Urban Studies from Brown University and his M.B.A in Finance from Bryant University, where he served on the Board of Trustees for nine years. Todd earned his Certified Investment Management Analyst (CIMA®) in 2007 and is an active member of the Investments & Wealth Institute. He and his wife, Trish, live in Lexington, MA and have two daughters.

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Following a 15-year career with the New York Rangers, Mike Richter is now a key spokesperson for environmental issues such as resource efficiency and climate change. Mike serves as president of Brightcore Energy, a provider of end-to-end energy efficiency solutions to the commercial market. Arden and Mike discuss his retirement from professional hockey and how he has navigated challenging times of tragedy and loss. We talk about family, business, and how to regain identity and purpose after major life changes.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:40] Mike shares about his transition from hockey to his next career in sustainability
[04:10] What the similarities are between being a professional hockey player and leading out in the sustainability and resource efficiency sector
[07:27] Mike talks about the loss of identity after retiring and how he moved forward
[11:49] What Mike has learned from tragedy and loss
[16:05] What can be learned from others who have navigated similar loss of identity and purpose
[20:57] How Mike views hockey and sports for his kids
[28:12] What hopes and dreams do you have for the future

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Some say that business isn't personal. For Mike, it is personal when people are involved. Managing people’s strengths and weaknesses is personal and something that requires a certain type of awareness and discipline.
At some point you have to have set expectations of yourself that are beyond what other people expect of you. Whatever you pursue, do it with as much integrity and discipline.
Starting over in a new career is scary. You have to put your ego aside in order to learn from those already established in the industry. Keep your ears open, mouth closed, and apply yourself and you'll catch up sooner than you realize.

RESOURCE LINKS

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-richter/

Website: https://www.brightcoreenergy.com

Episode Show Notes Page: https://oconnorpg.com/podcasts/mike-richters-journey-life-beyond-the-ice

BIO:

Mike Richter serves as president of Brightcore Energy, a provider of end-to-end energy efficiency solutions to the commercial market, including LED lighting conversions, commercial and community solar, high-efficiency renewable heating and cooling (geo thermal), electric vehicle (EV) charging and battery storage.

Richter, appointed to this role in 2015 at the time of the Company’s founding, handles business development and strategic opportunities.

He has become a key spokesperson for environmental issues, such as resource efficiency and climate change. He speaks frequently about environmental regulations and public policy before many audiences, including The Senate Special Committee on the Climate Crises. Throughout the past decade, Richter served on boards of the Sierra Club Foundation, The Nature Conservancy and Riverkeepers.

Following a 15-year career with the New York Rangers where he was a three-time NHL All-Star and Stanley Cup Champion and Olympic Medalist, Richter went on to receive his degree in Ethics, Politics and Economics with a concentration in Environmental Politics from Yale University.

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Hanna Stotland flunked out of high school, got a G.E.D., and went on to graduate from Harvard College and Harvard Law School. Since then she has helped countless families as an independent admissions consultant specializing in educational crisis management. Diana and Hanna talk about the rise in Title IX cases, how she helps students move forward after sexual misconduct allegations, and how parents can help children who are heading down the wrong path.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:20] Hanna shares how she went from high school dropout to Harvard Law School graduate to a successful admissions crisis management consultant
[03:60] Hanna details the types of crises that her clients are dealing with, including mental illness, substance abuse, disciplinary troubles and more
[05:52] At what stage in a child’s crisis or recovery is it best to seek out professional support for students
[09:53] Hanna shares about her single largest group of clients: students with sexual misconduct allegations
[14:35] How often is alcohol or substance abuse involved in the sexual misconduct allegations and advice for how to move forward after this type of catastrophe
[21:40] How parents can build trust and intervene in their child’s life who is heading down a difficult path

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

In Hanna’s experience, it is difficult to completely ruin your educational prospects in the US. She reminds students that no matter the crisis there is still the hope of rebuilding your life.
The number one principle for addressing a negative allegation or situation in your college application is not to shy away from the truth. It’s better to be up front and own your past choices and behaviors.
Parents, it’s important to set up a clear line of communication and trust with your children, especially those that may be going down a difficult path. Let your child know that if they ever get into a bad situation that you will help them navigate it, no matter how bleak it seems.

RESOURCE LINKS

Hanna Stotland Website

https://oconnorpg.com/podcasts/building-from-the-ground-up-with-hanna-stotland

BIO:

Hanna Stotland flunked out of high school, got a G.E.D., and went on to graduate from Harvard College and Harvard Law School. Since 1999, she has been an independent admissions consultant specializing in educational crisis management, including Title IX, substance abuse and mental illness. She frequently presents at professional conferences and has also been featured in the New York Times, Newsweek, CBS News, PBS, and WNYC.

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Roberta Sydney is a successful entrepreneur and seasoned board director who uses her expansive expertise and experience to lead various real estate and financial services firms. Roberta is here to talk about women in business, share her personal experiences, and offer valuable advice. Diana and Roberta discuss common stereotypes, ways that women can set themselves apart from male leaders, and the necessity of women having professional mentors and sponsors.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:10] Challenges that women face in the corporate world.
[04:08] How Roberta pivoted from financial services to where she is now.
[05:49] Why it’s important for women to have mentors and sponsors in the workplace and what the difference is between the two
[07:30] The differences between women and men leaders and how women are gifted in certain ways that can lead to their success as leaders
[11:56] What skills are needed for succeeding in the corporate world versus succeeding as an entrepreneur
[14:13] In order to be a successful entrepreneur, there has to be an internal dialogue with yourself where you are asking “What do I need?”
[16:29] Roberta shares how she mentors and what sets her apart
[18:00] Advice for women starting in business

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Women need mentors and sponsors. A sponsor is the person who's going to speak on your behalf when you're not in the room. They advocate for you to get the new position, to get the promotion, to get the new opportunity.
Stop using the word “just” to limit the contributions that you have made. Do not apologize when it's not necessary to apologize. Understand how important culture and fit are to you in terms of your own personal growth and pursue opportunities that fit those wants and needs.
Women have different gifts than men in leadership, like having greater empathy, creating safe environments, and seeing and hearing the unsaid. Women are also able to build consensus more easily.
Entrepreneurs need a lot of initiative, self-awareness, and a lot of willingness to fall down several times and get up. There needs to be a fire in the belly to succeed!
When you do get stuck or are facing certain challenges, start an internal dialogue with yourself to figure out what you need. It’s important to recognize your needs and know none of us does it all alone.

LINKS:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertasydney

https://oconnorpg.com/podcasts/a-womans-world-leading-the-way-in-business-with-roberta-sydney

BIO:

Roberta Sydney is a seasoned board director and former CEO serving on the board of Kiavi (formerly LendingHome) the leading lender for real estate investors, where she chairs the Nominating/Governance Committee and serves on the Compensation Committee. She also serves on the board of Tiedemann Advisors, a global wealth advisory firm that recently announced its plans to go public via SPAC. In addition, she serves as Board Chair of HEI Civil. Her previous board service includes chairing the Compensation Committee for Plaxall, Inc., the Long Island City based manufacturing and real estate company that secured Amazon for their HQ2 before Amazon withdrew.

The breadth and depth of Roberta’s experience comes from serving in executive and board leadership positions with regulated real estate and financial services firms ranging from large, traditional organizations to young, entrepreneurial companies. Sydney possesses a combination of leadership skills in real estate development, financial transactions, negotiations, digital transformation, marketing, and IT system evaluation. In addition to her many accomplishments, Sydney is actively engaged in philanthropy serving on the Neuroscience Advisory Committee and the Trustee Advisory Board of the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, a Harvard teaching hospital.

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Chris Herren is a former professional basketball player, and even more than his sports history, he is a man in long-term recovery who uses his story to inspire others. He has spoken to over a million students, athletes, and community members about substance use prevention. Diana and Chris discuss his journey, the importance of early prevention of substance abuse, and the need for family involvement during recovery. Listen as Chris shares his inspiring story and his heart for helping others in their sobriety journey.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:30] Chris Herren’s childhood and his first introduction to drugs
[06:44] How substance abuse began for Chris
[08:19] The moment of clarity and how families are impacted
[13:45] Chris’ advocacy work
[15:28] A different type of wellness program
[19:05] How fame impacts substance abuse
[21:35] The challenges of working with others in recovery

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

There is an emphasis on the worst day of drugs rather than the first day. The first day is something that's been overlooked. It’s important for parents to see where addiction begins.
It's so important to intervene early rather than waiting until someone hits “rock bottom.” If we can, we should avoid that term because it’s callous and is used carelessly. It's prevented a lot of people from intervening early.
Families should be a part of the recovery process of their loved one. When families get on board, they can influence the possibilities of somebody else. When families are included, the person who's struggling can catch up.
Sobriety gives you an edge in life, but because of the stigma that's attached to addiction, nobody really wants to say what sobriety does and what recovery does for people.

LINKS:

https://thefirstdayfilm.com/

Facebook: @chrisherren24 I Twitter: @c_herren I IG: @c_herren_

www.herrentalks.com / @HerrenTalks

www.herrenproject.com/ @HerrenProject

www.herrenwellness.com/ @HerrenWellness | Twitter: @Herren_Wellness

| IG: @Herren_Wellness

BIO:

Chris Herren, a former professional basketball player, has built a community around substance use prevention and recovery. As a person in long term recovery, Chris has spoken to over a million students, athletes, and community members since 2009, sparking honest discussions on the topics of substance use disorder, and wellness. Chris continues to share his story nationally with a renewed focus on prevention education and challenging audiences to rethink how we look at the disease of addiction, changing the focus from the last day to the first. In an effort to further the message, The First Day film premiered in July 2019 and is available for download with a screening guide or educational toolkit and lesson plans through the website: www.firstdayfilm.com. Chris celebrated 13 years of sobriety on August 1st, 2021, and is here to talk to us about his journey.

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Dr. Greg Skipper has devoted his career to assisting professionals in crisis. He has been instrumental in developing some of the standards for diagnosis and treatment for substance use disorders among medical professionals. Dr. Skipper and Diana discuss the statistics associated with doctors and mental illness and what the barriers are to proper diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Skipper also shares how research shows that proper monitoring and positive reinforcement can lead to more successful recoveries. Listen as he shares his experience and the hope that there is for medical professionals who have substance use disorders.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:30] The propensity for medical professionals to have substance use disorders
[04:07] Treatment among medical professionals
[07:27] The process for identifying and treating substance use disorders
[09:11] Lifetime monitoring vs recovery
[11:34] Support tools alongside monitoring
[13:00] Barriers to diagnosis and recovery
[17:53] Ideal response to addiction and contingency management
[21:11] Emotional leverage vs proper management

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Studies show medical professionals have the same propensity for addiction as other professionals like lawyers, truck drivers or doctors.
One of the barriers to recovery is the stigma surrounding mental illness and substance use disorders. People don't want to have this illness because it is shameful. So naturally people resist the diagnosis.
There are also bigger institutional issues that present barriers to recovery. The media is one of those. They are always looking for scandals with professionals like doctors, judges and lawyers.
Studies have proven that if you set up the right kind of system, addiction is treatable and the success rate is as good or better than any other chronic illness. Systems that highlight positive reinforcement with a little bit of negative consequences have proven to work best.

LINKS MENTIONED:

www.centerforprofessionalrecovery.com

www.professionalstreatment.com

BIO:

Dr. Skipper has devoted his career to assisting professionals in crisis. He has worked extensively with State Regulatory Boards in the United States and abroad and published over 100 articles regarding professional impairment. He was a principal investigator for the Blueprint Study, the largest outcome study of 904 physicians following treatment for substance use disorders. Dr. Skipper is currently the Medical Director of the Center for Professional Recovery in Malibu, CA where he has evaluated and treated over 800 health professionals from 22 states since 2011. He was Medical Director of the Alabama Physician Health Program for 12 years from 1999-2011 and the Medical Director of Hazelden Springbrook in Oregon from 1993-1999. Dr. Skipper was appointed by the Secretary of HHS to the National Advisory Council to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration from 2002-2006. Dr. Skipper was the innovator and original researcher of ethylglucuronide (EtG) testing, an alcohol biomarker used widely today. He is a speaker regarding professional impairment, alcohol biomarkers and monitoring. He is the Medical Director and faculty for the PBI Medical Ethics and Professionalism Course, sponsored by the Univ of California Irvine (a program for remedial training in ethics for disciplined licensees by regulatory boards in the USA).

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Peter Hogan shares his story of growing up in a high achieving, privileged suburban area outside of Boston, and how he discovered substances at the young age of 12. Peter opens up about how he struggled to find his identity and how he discovered himself through his recovery journey. Listen as he talks about his experience in treatment and how his daily routine practices help create a path to long-term recovery.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:17] Peter’s story and discovering substances at an early age
[06:13] How Peter’s parents responded when finding out Peter was struggling with substance use
[09:02] Peter’s experience with treatment
[14:32] A new identity
[15:50] Daily routines and growth
[18:38] Advice for parents who have children struggling with substances

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

In Peter's experience, when kids are at a loss of where they fit in in the world, being someone who is using substances can create its own identity. It takes 30 seconds to become that person.
Everyone is capable of long-term recovery when there is a desire to take ownership of their future.
Successful treatment experiences can lead to finding your tribe. You can find your identity and form relationships with others that have a similar goal in mind. You can form your new identity and form relationships based on the identity as a sober person.
It’s normal for parents to want to protect their children and help them. Sometimes the best help is to give them a sense of ownership and responsibility in their life as they enter sobriety.

LINKS MENTIONED:

https://oconnorpg.com/podcasts/secrets-in-the-suburbs-ones-journey-to-recovery

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Debbie Bing is President and Principal at CFAR (Center for Applied Research) where she uses her conflict-resolution and negotiation expertise to help family businesses and other organizations build collaborative approaches to their most pressing business challenges. Debbie talks about the emotional and strategic layers that family businesses are faced with when it comes time to engage with the new leaders, spouses, or the next generation. She speaks to her background in mediation and conflict-resolution. Tune in as Debbie addresses conflict, risk, and how the next generation should step out and step into roles where they can use their skills and perspectives for their families.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:24] CFAR’s history
[03:12] How founders and the next generation can work together
[10:30] How to include new family members into a family business
[15:55] How Debbie views conflict, strategy, and growth
[20:17] Women and the next generation in family businesses

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

One of the first questions that's important for founders and families to be asking and thinking about when they're thinking about continuity with future generations, is what are their goals. Determining explicitly, what are the rules of the road for new generations entering the business?
There are so many layers underneath what presents as a conflict. It's an opportunity to understand a source of difference. Explore what the conflict is representing and you will likely find something that is useful for decision-making in future choices.
Since the pandemic, many businesses have a need for a wider set of skills and backgrounds. This has led to an increase of entry from the next generation, of all kinds and certainly women.

LINKS MENTIONED:

www.cfar.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/debbiebing/

https://oconnorpg.com/podcasts/family-enterprise-when-strategy-collides-with-vision-and-values-with-debbie-bing

BIO:

Debbie Bing, President and Principal, began at CFAR as a Project Consultant in 1998, became an Associate in 1999, and a Principal in 2006. Her assumption of the Presidency in 2016 represents the shift to CFAR’s Second Generation of Leaders. Debbie is also a member of CFAR’s Board of Directors and co-leads the firm’s Family Enterprise and Owner-Led Business practice. As a second-generation owner of CFAR, she draws on personal experience in working through the dilemmas of strategy and succession.

Debbie views conflict as a useful starting point for a productive exchange about organizational priorities and performance. She has led negotiation teams in the Middle East and in Eastern Europe, and uses that expertise to help business leaders and executive teams in family businesses, entrepreneurial organizations, universities, associations and foundations to build collaborative approaches to their most pressing business challenges. She is especially skilled at helping clients make decisions and implement change in highly politicized, emotionally charged environments as they manage the multiple pressures of mission, performance, culture, competencies and competition. Her methodology brings all appropriate players into the process of generating options, making decisions, and committing to a plan so that they “own” the solution.

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Dr. Lesley Tate-Gould is a Co-founder and the Executive Director of Lido Wellness Center (LWC). She was inspired to open LWC after becoming aware of the gaps in residential treatment facilities for adults and adolescents with mental conditions related to addiction and eating disorders. First, Dr. Tate-Gould shares how LWC differs from other treatment facilities by looking beyond a patient’s external symptoms. The conversation shifts to address how the pursuit of success in our hustle-obsessed culture greatly affects us more than we realize. Listen as Dr. Lesley Tate-Gould talks about a healthier view of success and achievement and the balance that our minds and bodies desire.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:20] Dr. Tate-Gould shares about founding Lido Wellness Center (LWC)
[03:20] What sets LWC apart from other outpatient treatment centers?
[05:40] What is success and how has culture created a toxic environment?
[13:15] What are the effects on the body when we hustle without balance?
[16:24] Dr. Tate-Gould shares her definition of success

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

As human beings, we are magnificent in our capacity, but we also require time to quietly reflect, to turn inward, and to slow down. Our culture has ignored this and emphasizes a “hustle” mentality that disregards the inevitability of burnout.
We cannot be everything at every moment. It's okay to focus on what matters, even if that means pushing pause on something else. It's okay to stop over-scheduling appointments and engagements in order to appease you or someone else’s expectations.
Curiosity, creativity, and adventure are at the heart of discovering success.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Website: www.LidoWellnessCenter.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lidowellnesscenter

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lidowellness/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lidowellnesscenter/

Show notes website page: https://oconnorpg.com/podcasts/beyond-burnout-with-dr-lesley-tate-gould

BIO:

Dr. Lesley Tate-Gould is a Co-founder and the Executive Director of Lido Wellness Center (LWC). She was inspired to open LWC following her experience working in residential treatment facilities specializing in addiction and eating disorders for both adults and adolescents. Through her work, she gained a robust knowledge of the complexities of higher care and became aware of the gaps in mental health outpatient treatment, discovering a lack of robust clinical accessibility for addressing underlying mental conditions once substance disorders were addressed. Determined to fill those care gaps, she co-founded LWC as a primary mental health outpatient treatment facility for the local community and patients from treatment programs around the county.

Dr. Tate-Gould specializes in mood disturbances, trauma-related disorders, personality disorders, and secondary substance-use and eating disorders. As a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), Dr. Tate-Gould engages with patients in new and mindful ways, such as using gentle, intuitive methods to produce enhanced understandings of the physiological components related to trauma. Paired expertly with other treatment modalities, she supports healing by assisting patients in achieving a greater awareness of themselves in a supportive and compassionate environment dedicated, foremost, to improving their health and well-being.In her multiple roles as owner, executive director, and clinician, Dr. Tate-Gould thrives on professional variety and encourages collaboration with her team, allowing the flexibility to incorporate unique perspectives on techniques and healing approaches for LWC patients. Her mission with LWC is to explore bold new areas of patient care to assist people in navigating beyond their symptoms and into a life that restores meaning and purpose.

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Dr. Craig Heacock is an adolescent and adult psychiatrist and addiction specialist in Colorado and the host and co-producer of the podcast Back from the Abyss: Psychiatry in Stories. First, Dr. Heacock gives us a brief history of ketamine from the last fifty years as an FDA-approved drug. We talk about how ketamine became a go-to treatment for resistant depression and bipolar disorder. Tune in as Dr. Heacock reveals how a state-of-the-art assessment delivery and follow-up for ketamine would look like.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:00] Ketamine: a brief history of the past fifty years.
[05:00] How would a state-of-the-art assessment delivery and follow-up for ketamine look like?
[09:00] Who is running the ketamine clinics if there’s a shortage of psychiatrists?
[11:55] How money and profit drive some of this ketamine delivery.
[16:09] Dr. Heacock’s experience with individuals who abuse ketamine.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Ketamine is a go-to treatment for resistant depression and bipolar disorder.
A state-of-the-art ketamine therapy involves a true psychiatric evaluation to see if there are other things that should be happening first.
Ketamine does not replace medications; it augments them and helps them work better.
Most people that are receiving ketamine treatments are very middle class.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Website

craigheacockmd.com

Podcast: Back from the Abyss: Psychiatry in Stories

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/back-from-the-abyss-psychiatry-in-stories/id1469826718

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/theabysspod/

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/backfromtheabysspodcast/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-heacock-md-1a8618196

https://oconnorpg.com/podcasts/ketamine-infusion-therapy-expert-dr-craig-heacock-discusses-safe-protocols-risks

BIO:

Dr. Craig Heacock is an adolescent and adult psychiatrist and addiction specialist in Colorado and the host and co-producer of the podcast Back from the Abyss: Psychiatry in Stories. He was a co-therapist in the Phase 3 trial of MDMA-Assisted Psychotherapy for PTSD and has particular interest in the use of ketamine and other psychedelics to treat severe mood disorders and PTSD. He is a graduate of the University of New Mexico School of Medicine and did his psychiatry training at Brown University.

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Dr. Jason Schiffman is the founder and Director of Camden Center, a nationally recognized center of excellence for treating mental health and addictive disorders. First, Jason explains whether or not celebrities struggle differently than the rest of us and how the support system of a celebrity differs from the general public. Later, Dr. Schiffman discusses the complexities and benefits of group therapy for someone who is in the public eye. Tune in as we speak about the importance of vulnerability to building the foundation of emotional wellbeing.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:30] Do celebrities struggle differently than the rest of us?
[08:50] How does the support system of a celebrity differ from the general public?
[15:35] The problems related to having celebrities in group therapy.
[21:35] The importance of vulnerability to building the foundation of emotional wellbeing.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

The drive that can lead to a sufficient amount of work ethic to become famous is the same thing that can drive you to develop shame-related emotions.
Support happens from anyone who really authentically cares about that person.
Putting a celebrity in a group therapy session can cause problems in terms of the dynamic between that person and the other group members.
To improve your psychological wellbeing, you need to find the strength to be vulnerable.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Website

www.camdencenter.com

https://oconnorpg.com/podcasts/lights-camera-anxiety-impact-of-fame-on-mental-health-with-dr-jason-schiffman

BIO:

Jason Schiffman, MD, MA, MBA, is the founder and Director of Camden Center, a nationally recognized center of excellence for the treatment of mental health and addictive disorders located in Los Angeles and San Francisco. He earned his Medical Doctorate and his Master of Business Administration from the University of Southern California (USC) and completed his residency in psychiatry at the UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior where he served as chief resident of the UCLA Anxiety Disorders Program. Upon completion of residency, Dr. Schiffman founded the UCLA Dual Diagnosis Program where he continues to serve as Medical Director. Dr. Schiffman is a diplomate of the National Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and is also board certified in Addiction Medicine.

Dr. Schiffman has extensive research experience in molecular biology and is the author of numerous scientific publications in this field. He is a nationally recognized expert on addiction and co-occurring mood, anxiety, and trauma related disorders, and has written extensively on the subjects of addiction, anxiety, and trauma in both the academic and popular press.

One of Dr. Schiffman's primary interests is the development of novel healthcare systems for the treatment of psychiatric and addictive disorders. His goal in establishing Camden Center was to create a facility where patients could receive world-class treatment that resulted in true recovery.

Toward this end he developed the Camden Model of care, which identifies and treats both the symptoms and causes of mental health disorders through diagnostic evaluation, feedback-based treatment planning, and the matching of patients with individualized, multidisciplinary teams of expert clinicians.

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Tom McCullough is Chairman and CEO of Northwood Family Office, a Toronto-based multi-family office serving the comprehensive needs of families of significant net worth. In this episode, Tom discusses how he supports families during financial and emotional transitions and reveals how he builds trust with families to disclose sensitive information. Tune in as we chat about preparing for the unexpected when it comes to family planning, the inspiration behind Tom’s books, and the advice Tom would give a former version of himself.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:50] How Tom supports families during financial and emotional transitions.
[06:20] Tom speaks about getting people to disclose sensitive information to him as an advisor.
[11:55] Ways to prepare for the unexpected when it comes to family planning.
[17:40] The inspiration behind Tom’s book, The Top 50 Questions Wealthy Families Ask
[22:15] The advice that Tom would give a former version of himself.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Advisors need to know what they are qualified and capable of dealing with. While on the other hand, they also need to know when it’s time for a professional referral.
A family office should be objective; that way, it will bring clients into a zone of trust.
Be easier on yourself and others.
Practice more grace.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Website

www.northwoodfamilyoffice.com

Books

'Wealth of Wisdom: The Top 50 Questions Wealthy Families Ask' and 'Family Wealth Management: 7 Imperatives for Successful Investing in the New World Order'

The Top 50 Questions Wealthy Families Ask

www.wealthofwisdombook.com/podcast/

https://oconnorpg.com/podcasts/supporting-clients-through-life-transitions-with-tom-mccullough

BIO:

Tom McCullough is Chairman and CEO of Northwood Family Office, a Toronto-based multi-family office serving the comprehensive needs of families of significant net worth. He is also the co-author of 'Wealth of Wisdom: The Top 50 Questions Wealthy Families Ask' and 'Family Wealth Management: 7 Imperatives for Successful Investing in the New World Order'.

Tom has spent over 30 years in the wealth management/ family office field, initially in senior executive roles with RBC wealth management. The combination of this background, along with his own family's need for a truly comprehensive, customized and confidential service, led him to found one of Canada's first multi-family offices, dedicated to families looking for objective advice and boutique-style service. Northwood has quickly become one of the leaders in its field and has been consistently recognized as the top independent family office in Canada by Euromoney in its global private banking survey.

Tom is a frequent speaker on wealth management and family issues. He is an Adjunct Professor of Finance at the University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Management where he teaches ‘The Management of Private Wealth’ in the MBA program. He is also an Entrepreneur-in-Residence at Western University's Ivey School of Business. Tom is a member of the Editorial Board of the Journal of Wealth Management and holds a certificate in Family Business Advising from the Family Firm Institute.

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Courtney Pullen is the President of the Pullen Consulting Group with more than 25 years of experience in individual and family coaching. In this episode, Courtney joins us to explain the importance of teaching financial literacy as early as possible to your children. He says that it would help if you were intentional when talking about wealth and finances with your family. Plus, Courtney explains how to pass on the proper values to your children around wealth. Tune in as we chat about grit, teachable money moments, and dealing with your own money issues.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:50] When are kids ready to hear about how much money is in your family?
[04:20] You need to be intentional when it comes to talking about money.
[09:30] How wealth can hinder the process of instilling values to your children.
[12:30] We need to not deprive our children of the opportunity to earn.
[21:20] An example of how Courtney promotes grit into his children.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

You need to teach your kids financial literacy from a young age; the sooner, the better!
Let your kids make money mistakes; anything can be a great teachable moment.
Define the purpose of your wealth; that way, you can pass on the proper values in your children.
Parents need to deal with their own money issues before teaching their children about money.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Website

www.PullenConsulting.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/courtney-pullen-54a1035/

https://oconnorpg.com/podcasts/financial-literacy-arming-the-next-generation-with-courtney-pullen

BIO:

Courtney Pullen M.A. is the President of the Pullen Consulting Group. He has more than 25 years of experience in individual and family coaching, business and management consulting, leadership development, communication, and team building.

Courtney received his graduate degree in Psychology from the University of Northern Colorado in 1983. He was a Clinical Associate at the School of Professional Psychology at the University of Denver and an Adjunct Professor at the University of Colorado at Denver. Courtney also spent 17 years as a Senior Consultant with Conversant Solutions, a Communication and Collaboration Consulting firm to Fortune 100 Companies.

Courtney has lectured frequently, conducted numerous workshops, and been published in the areas of individual and organizational change, behavioral finance, communication, and family wealth dynamics. He is a former contributing editor to the Journal of Financial Planning and the Journal of Practical Estate Planning and is a faculty member of the Sudden Money Institute. He also holds Fellow status in the Purposeful Planning Institute and is a graduate of the Newfield coaching program.

He has spoken at regional and national conference of the Financial Planning Association (FPA), National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA), Investment Management Consultants Association, (IMCA), and Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO), as well as estate planning symposiums and family foundation conferences.

His primary focus is as a consultant to financial services firms and affluent families. He is the author of Intentional Wealth: How Families Build Legacies of Stewardship and Financial Health. He is also on CPWA faculty at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.

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For the past 20 years, Naz Hassanein has worked in the family office community, both in Boston and nationwide. In this episode, Naz discusses some of the most memorable family systems she has seen in her career. Worthy Circles works with many affluent families; Naz explains how they give professional recommendations to their families. Tune in as we talk about the needs of advisors during Covid-19 and how Naz's work significantly impacts the way she manages her own family dynamics.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:50] Naz speaks about some of the most memorable family systems she has seen in her career.
[14:10] Worthy Circles works with many affluent families; Naz explains how they give professional recommendations to their families.
[16:15] Advisors have a lot of needs. We speak about the struggles of advisors during Covid.
[21:30] How Naz's work impacts the ways that she manages her own family dynamics.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Professional recommendations will come down to personal connections.
The industry has been lucky during Covid because most advisors have had more business than they can manage.
As families increase their wealth, their lives become more complicated.
We're seeing clients with needs that aren't always easily answerable; the more complex your life becomes, the more complex your needs will be.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Website

www.worthycircles.com

https://oconnorpg.com/podcasts/it-takes-a-village-finding-the-right-professional-match-with-naz-hassanein

BIO:

For the past 20 years, Naz has worked in the family office community, both in Boston and nationwide. She served as a managing director at Family Office Exchange (FOX) for 8 years, overseeing the single-family office, multi-family office, and advisor relationships. From there, she went on to manage the center-of-influence strategy at Ballentine Partners, a multifamily office based in Waltham. In 2015, she created Worthy Circles as a family office club for advisors in the Boston area to meet, network, and share their thought leadership.

Prior to her work in the family office market, Naz worked at the Corporate Executive Board (CEB) in Washington, DC, where she oversaw the firm’s relationships with the financial services sector through programs such as The VIP Forum.

Naz graduated summa cum laude from Middlebury College, where she majored in English, and spent time studying aboard at King's College London.

She now resides in the Boston suburbs with her husband and two daughters. She manages the Professional Advisor Leadership Council (PALC) for the Foundation for MetroWest; is on the Marketing, Memberships, and Programming Board for the UHNW Institute (UHNWInstitute.org); sits on the board of the Agamenticus Yacht Club in York, Maine; and is an active member of the Hunnewell Elementary School Parent Teacher Organization. In her spare time, she enjoys writing for local publications and dreams of someday writing a novel. In the meantime, she feels fortunate to work with the wonderful community of peers that is Worthy Circles.

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Jennifer Risher, author of “We Need to Talk: A Memoir About Wealth,” tells her story and explores the impact of wealth on identity, relationships, and sense of place in the world. Jennifer discusses her journey and the inspiration behind her career of helping people have much-needed conversations. Then, Jennifer gives tips on having awkward financial discussions with people around money. Tune in as we talk about why wealth shouldn’t be a barrier to having great relationships in your life; instead, you should focus on authenticity, connection, and intimacy.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:35] About Jennifer’s journey and the inspiration behind her career of helping people have much-needed conversations.
[08:00] Wealth can be a truth serum; Jennifer explains what that means.
[18:30] Jennifer gives tips on having awkward financial discussions with people around money.
[21:30] Why wealth shouldn’t be a barrier to relationships in your life.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

You don’t realize what money struggles someone is going through unless you talk to them.
There's a real chance of intimacy and learning through conversations about money.
Before talking to other people about money, find out what feelings you personally have around money.
Human authenticity, connection, and intimacy are by far the most valuable thing in your life.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Website

www.jenniferrisher.com

Book

https://www.amazon.com/We-Need-Talk-Memoir-Wealth/dp/1939096464

Website Show Notes Page:

https://oconnorpg.com/podcasts/struggles-of-sudden-wealth-with-jennifer-risher

BIO:

Jennifer Risher is on a mission to move money out of the taboo category and help us have much-needed conversations. Her book, “We Need to Talk: A Memoir About Wealth” tells her story and explores the impact of wealth on identity, relationships, and sense of place in the world. Jennifer was born in Seattle, Washington, grew up in Oregon, and graduated from Connecticut College. She and her husband, David, have two daughters and live in San Francisco, where David is CEO of Worldreader, a nonprofit he co-founded to create a world where everyone is a reader. Last year, in response to COVID, Jennifer and David launched #HalfMyDAF challenge, which has now inspired nearly $14 million in charitable giving from donor advised funds.

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James Hughes, a resident of Aspen, Colorado, is the author of Family Wealth: Keeping It in the Family and Family – The Compact Among Generations. First, Mr. Hughes speaks about family governance and explains why families need it. He also discusses the work he has done as an advisor to high-net-worth clients, and what are some of his favorite resources to share for his clients. Tune in as we talk about the four functions needed for the human community to prosper and how power plays a role in family dynamics.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:05] What is family governance and do all families need it?
[07:00] How families have been rediscovering themselves during the pandemic.
[10:35] Mr. Hughes speaks about navigating his work as an advisor to families.
[15:15] Working with high-net-worth families, Mr. Hughes recommends his favorite resources.
[21:00] The four functions needed for the human community to prosper.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

The pandemic has asked people to actually get to know each other again.
Do you know how your family learns? That’s something you need to figure out so you can grow and flourish together.
Families can prepare themselves to wake up if they know how each other learns.
All relationships are relationships that involve power. Find ways to use your power together.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Website

www.jamesehughes.com

Power and Love

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005P2A6IE/

https://oconnorpg.com/podcasts/james-hughes-discusses-preserving-assets-and-creating-legacy

BIO:

Mr. Hughes, a resident of Aspen, Colorado, is the author of Family Wealth: Keeping It in the Family, and of Family – The Compact Among Generations, both published by Bloomberg Press, and is the co–author with Susan Massenzio and Keith Whitaker of The Cycle of the Gift: Family Wealth and Wisdom, The Voice of the Rising Generation, and Complete Faith Wealth, all published by John Wiley & Sons and is a co-author with Hartley Goldstone and Keith Whitaker of Family Trusts: A Guide to Trustees, Beneficiaries, Advisors and Protectors". In addition, he has written numerous articles on family governance and wealth preservation and a series of Reflections which can be found on his website jamesehughes.com.

He was the founder of a law partnership in New York City specializing in the representation of private clients throughout the world and is now retired from the active practice of law. Mr. Hughes was a partner of the law firms of Coudert Brothers and Jones Day.

He is a current active Fellow of Wise Counsel Research Foundation (www.wisecounselresearch.org) a Boston based think tank providing qualitative advice to families who seek to avoid the shirt sleeves proverb and to help their families flourish.

He is a member of the Advisory Board of Arlington Partners; the Chair Emeritus of Lineage Private Trust Company, a Fellow of the Family Firm Institute, a member of the Society of Trusts and Estates Practitioners, a founding member of the Collaboration for Family Flourishing, a Laureate of the Purposeful Planning Institute, and a Founding Advisor to the Sino-American Family Office Foundation.

He has spoken frequently at numerous international and domestic symposia on the avoidance of the shirtsleeves to shirtsleeves proverb and on the dynamic growth of families’ human, intellectual, social, spiritual and financial capitals toward their families’ flourishing.

He has authored various Forwards to multiple published works on families and their flourishing and has been cited in the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal and various professional journals.

He is a member of boards of various private trust companies, an advisor to numerous investment institutions, and a member of a number of private philanthropic boards. He is a graduate of the Far Brook School, which teaches through the Arts, The Pingry School, Princeton University and The Columbia School of Law. He is a counselor to the Family Office Exchange and recipient of its Founder’s Award, the recipient of the Private Asset Management Lifetime Achievement Award, the Ackerman Institute Family Partner Award, and the Wealth Management Lifetime Achievement Award.

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Brian Cuban is an attorney, author, and mental health awareness and recovery advocate. In this episode, Brian discusses the inspiration behind his recovery advocacy work and what led to his recovery journey. Additionally, Brian explains why it’s essential to have an open dialogue surrounding body dysmorphia and how recovery can lead to acceptance. If you’re starting your journey to recovery, listen as we reveal which first steps you can take. Stay tuned as Brian shares what helped during his recovery journey and dives into his new book, The Ambulance Chaser. You can preorder The Ambulance Chaser now, or order on December 7th, 2021 on Amazon.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:35] About Brian Cuban and the inspiration behind his recovery and advocacy work.
[05:20] The importance of discussing body dysmorphia and how recovery can lead to acceptance.
[10:37] Lawyers tend to have a higher rate of substance use; Brian shares his journey with substance use in law school.
[17:05] Brian's first steps when he started recovery.
[19:35] Advice for individuals struggling with recovery or body dysmorphia.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

You should tell the truth to your therapist; it’s an important step in the recovery journey.
The only prerequisite to recovery is that you are above ground.
Feeling shame is normal; find a way to deal with the shame.
There are many different prongs to living your best life that constitutes recovery.

LINKS MENTIONED:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/briancuban/

Website

www.briancuban.com

Brian Cuban’s new book The Ambulance Chaser

https://www.amazon.com/Ambulance-Chaser-Brian-Cuban/dp/1637582412

Show Notes Page

https://oconnorpg.com/podcasts/an-open-book-brian-cubans-success-in-recovery

BIO:

Brian Cuban is an attorney, author and mental health awareness and recovery advocate. He is the author of the best-selling book, The Addicted Lawyer, Tales of The Bar, Booze Blow & Redemption. His debut thriller novel, The Ambulance Chaser is set for release December 2021.

He has spoken at conferences, non-profit events, colleges and universities across the United States and in Canada. He also writes extensively on these subjects. His columns have appeared on CNN.com, Foxnews.com, The Huffington Post, The New York Times, and in online and print newspapers around the world.

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Tsitsi Mutendi is Founder and Lead Consultant at Nhaka Legacy Planning. We begin with Tsitsi discussing the inspiration behind her business, and she delves into her work managing conflict between generations. When it comes to managing conflict, some things in life are inevitable; we cannot avoid them. We discuss the importance of transitioning when it comes to legacy planning and Tsitsi reveals how the pandemic has impacted her work. Tune in for Tsitsi’s advice to teach your children about resilience and how you can find motivation if you're starting over in your business.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:40] Tsitsi discusses the inspiration behind her business, Nhaka Legacy Planning. Additionally, she speaks about managing conflict between generations.
[09:15] Some things in life are inevitable; we cannot avoid them. We discuss the importance of transitioning when it comes to legacy planning.
[13:50] Tsitsi reveals how the pandemic has impacted her work and how she has sustained her business during an uncertain and difficult time.
[17:20] Tsitsi gives advice on teaching your children about resilience and how you can find motivation if you’re starting over in business.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

You have to understand that, at some point, the person who did not exist started to exist, and you started transitioning them from birth.
At each point in time that the generations exist, the issues that impact them are different.
The role of an advisor is to make everyone’s needs transparent.
The pandemic has taught us to be more mindful.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Websites

www.nhakalegacy.com

www.tsitsimutendi.com

Podcast: Enterprising Families

https://anchor.fm/enterprisingfamilies

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/TsitsiMMutendi

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/tsitsi_mutendi

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tsitsi-mutendi-cfba-cfwa-57a791a/

Twitter

https://twitter.com/tsitsimutendi

BIO:

TSITSI MUTENDI FAMILY BUSINESS AND FAMILY OFFICE ADVISOR

Tsitsi is Founder and Lead Consultant at Nhaka Legacy Planning. She is also Co-Founder at African Family Firms (A non profit Africa Family Business Association) Tsitsi Mutendi is a well-versed, award winning business woman with over 12 years experience building her own successful publishing and education businesses, during this time Tsitsi developed a passion to assist family businesses build multi-generational businesses which translate into multigenerational legacies.

Tsitsi is recognised globally for her business acumen and world class delivery. Through various board appointments in numerous industries, Tsitsi has had exposure to many global business development strategies especially in Africa. Today, Tsitsi is the founder and owner of Nhaka Legacy Planning which she formed in 2018.

Her main focus is on working with Individuals, Family Businesses and Families of wealth in Family Governance and Family governance tools as well as working with Family Offices to create relevance between Family and Office. Her other expertise includes; family communication coaching, family & business strategic planning, succession planning, business continuity strategies, setting up family governance tools such as Family Constitution, Family Council and Family Assemblies, coaching and mentoring.

Tsitsi has a certificate in Family Business Advisory and Family Wealth Advisory through the global Family Business Education Network, Family Firms Institute.Her passion for family business has awarded her the opportunity to be an international speaker and author on the subject, particularly on family governance and business continuity. Tsitsi has a weekly podcast called Enterprising Families that focuses towards discussing issues that affect Families Enterprises and family businesses to manage better their journeys as families in business and issues that are of interest to them.Tsitsi has three children aged between 9 and 3. She also owns and runs a successful group of Montessori Primary Schools.

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Jim Coutré is responsible for the oversight of Fidelity Family Office Services' Insights & Connections program. Jim starts the conversation by diving into his responsibilities for the Insights & Connections program, which provides family offices and wealthy families with thought leadership, referrals to industry experts and consultants and access to a peer networking program. Jim then explains that too many family offices are solely focused on financial capital; it's a lost opportunity. Tune in as we talk about why families need more than financial assistance and the importance of networking as a family office executive. To explore what Jim sees as the most essential ideas for families and their family offices, check out Fidelity Insight Explorer: https://insightexplorer.fidelity.com/home

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:30] All about the Fidelity Family Office Services’ Insights & Connections program.
[04:20] What type of financial issues wealthy families are having during the pandemic.
[11:30] There are too many family offices that are solely focused on financial capital; it’s a lost opportunity.
[21:05] Professionals need a peer network; being a family office executive can be lonely.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

People tend to admire wealthy people, but at the same time, wealthy people are widely despised.
Families of affluence have had the opportunity to avoid what many people experienced during the pandemic.
Being within the spotlight can lead to a persistent feeling to prove that you are not worthy of wealth.
Many people with wealth carry around a sense of shame; the saying 'more money, more problems' is true.

BIO:

Jim Coutré, Vice President, Insights and Connections. Jim Coutré is responsible for the oversight of Fidelity Family Office Services’ Insights & Connections program, which provides families and family office executives with perspective and problem-solving across a wide range of office matters and family matters.

LINKS MENTIONED:

www.linkedin.com/in/jcoutre

Family Office Services

https://clearingcustody.fidelity.com/app/item/RD_9884432/fidelity-family-office-services.html

Fidelity Insight Explorer

https://insightexplorer.fidelity.com/home

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Lisa Cukier is a Partner and Executive Committee member at Burns & Levinson LLP in Boston. To start, Lisa explains why guardianships and conservatorships may be necessary for your family. Lisa then talks about what signs may appear when someone is experiencing a decline in their mental health. Finally, Lisa dives into exactly what the process looks like of going through guardianships and conservatorships. Some families can be apprehensive about the process, and there are other options. Tune in as Lisa explains why an incentive trust could be a better alternative to a typical guardianship or conservatorship.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[04:10] Lisa explains why guardianships and conservatorships are needed. Lisa then talks about what signs may appear when someone is experiencing a decline in their mental health.
[09:20] About the process of going through guardianship and conservatorship.
[15:10] How Lisa works with families who are resistant to guardianships and conservatorships.
[19:05] There's a less intrusive alternative to guardianships and conservatorships: an incentive trust.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Guardianships and conservatorships are typically court-appointed. To get one, you will need to file a petition in court.
There needs to be a link between a medical diagnosis and lacking the capacity to make certain decisions.
An incentive trust can be a more suitable alternative to guardianship and conservatorship.
Mental health issues will happen in every single family; it’s critical to be prepared ahead of time.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Website

https://www.burnslev.com/professionals/lisa-m-cukier

Business Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/burnslev/

Business Twitter

https://twitter.com/burnslev

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisacukier/

BIO:

LISA M. CUKIER is a Partner and Executive Committee member at Burns & Levinson LLP in Boston. Her practice includes fiduciary representation, trust planning and trust dispute resolution and litigation, family crisis and family dispute resolution, sophisticated high end divorce, divorce impacted by family trusts and family business, blended family planning and litigation, mental health and addiction related legal interventions, elder law, guardianship and conservatorship litigation, grandparents visitation matters, and elder financial exploitation and undue influence matters. Previously, Ms. Cukier was assistant general counsel for the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health and Department of Mental Retardation (now DDS). As Special Assistant Attorney General at DMR, she prosecuted disabled person abuse cases for the Disabled Persons Protection Commission. She is a past president of the Massachusetts Family and Probate American Inn of Court and is presently serving on its Board of directors, is a member of the Boston Probate and Estate Planning Forum, the Boston Estate Planning Council, and the Massachusetts Association of Guardians Ad Litem. Ms. Cukier has been recognized with the Best Lawyers designation from 2010 – 2021, the SuperLawyers designation from 2005-2021, the Massachusetts Bar Association Community Service Award in 2005, a National Law Journal Trailblazer in 2017, the Women Worth Watching recognition in 2018, Top Women of Law in 2019, and sits on the WBA Women Leaders Initiative as of 2020. Ms. Cukier is a graduate of Northeastern University and Suffolk University Law School. Ms. Cukier is raising her two children in Weston Massachusetts.

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Kitty speaks out to share her story and help fight the stigma surrounding mental illness, in hopes families and clinicians will invest more research and awareness around symptoms and effective treatment methods. First, Kitty opens up about her struggles with bipolar disorder, OCD, and binge eating disorder. Kitty then reveals what she would have done differently on her journey to recovery; plus, Kitty gives advice for those struggling with depression and other mental health issues. Tune in as we talk about the stigma and discrimination around mental health in our society.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:05] Kitty has bipolar disorder, OCD and has struggled with binge eating. She opens up about her mental health journey.
[18:35] What Kitty wished she did differently on her journey to recovery.
[20:55] The people that made an impact on Kitty accepting her mental health struggles.
[22:50] The advice Kitty has for people struggling with depression and other mental health issues.
[24:30] Kitty speaks about the stigma and discrimination around mental health in our society.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Catching mental issues early can completely change a child’s life.
A strong foundation of mental health knowledge can equip your children to have happy, healthy, and productive lives.
You should never ignore mental health struggles; always take them seriously.
The more you talk about your mental health, the more we can destigmatize it in society.

BIO:

Kitty was born and raised in NYC where she attended a K-12 prep school before graduating in 2007. After graduating, she spent a semester living in Cairo Egypt studying Arabic at the American University in Cairo. She is currently enrolled at Columbia University where she is completing her bachelor’s degree having taken many classes non-degree before her enrollment at Columbia. Kitty is 32, and has bipolar disorder, OCD, and has struggled with binge eating. She’s now speaking out to help fight the stigma surrounding mental illness in hopes that people will invest in more basic research to develop more effective medication and other treatments for mental illnesses.

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Thayer Cheatham Willis is an internationally acclaimed author, educator, speaker, and leading authority in wealth counseling. Thayer shares insight on how her background helped inform the career she chose to pursue and the importance of wealth counseling.We chat about the importance of exemplifying values and how children will learn from what they see, rather than what they hear. Tune in as Thayer dives into how wealthy families react to stress, mental health, and substance use.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:20] How Thayer’s background helped inform the career that she chose to pursue. Thayer speaks about the importance of wealth counseling.
[08:00] Parents need to exemplify values; kids will learn from what they see rather than what they hear.
[10:00] How wealthy families are reacting to stress from the pandemic. Thayer speaks about mental health and substance use during these times.
[21:00] The parents of the family will often pay for wealth counseling; however, young people still need to have their own journey.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

It is important to role model the behavior you want to see from your kids.
Teens need to live their own lives; sometimes, a wealth counselor can help parents see differences within the family.
Parents need to let their children make their own decisions. An advisor can help parents accept their child’s journey.
Even if you agree to disagree, parents and children can come to terms with each other’s different life paths.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Website

www.thayerwillis.com

www.linkedin.com/in/thayerwillis

BIO:

Thayer Cheatham Willis is an internationally acclaimed author, educator, speaker, and leading authority in the area of wealth counseling. She has been a licensed, practicing psychotherapist since 1990, and her primary focus is on facilitating inheritors and their families as they cope with the psychological challenges of wealth. A child of wealth herself, born into the founding family of the multinational Georgia-Pacific Corporation, she brings to her field a unique insider’s perspective on contending with family dynamics as they relate to the mental and emotional challenges of wealth. Accredited with an M.A. from the University of Oregon and an M.S.W. from Portland State University, Thayer is a licensed clinical social worker (L.C.S.W.) specializing in wealth-related issues. Thayer offers thirty years of experience in a field she helped pioneer and dominates as one of its most prominent, foremost authorities. Working privately with a global client-base, she has helped over 10,000 inheritors and their families in eight countries and four continents resolve wealth-related family conflicts.
Thayer is the author of Navigating the Dark Side of Wealth: A Life Guide for Inheritors, an invaluable introduction for families on the difficult journey to freedom beyond wealth, and Beyond Gold: True Wealth for Inheritors, which focuses on how individuals can be responsible with the financial wealth in their lives, keep it in perspective, and be free to take on the tough, rewarding task of enhancing relationships. Thayer wrote a column for Worth Magazine for several years, has had many articles published in additional national magazines and writes a quarterly newsletter, available on her website. She also has been interviewed for top financial publications including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Financial Times, The Business Journal, and Time Magazine.

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Peter and Arden O’Connor Sr., parents of Arden O’Connor, Founder, and CEO of O’Connor Professional Group, share their experiences navigating the behavioral health care system with their youngest son, Chris. Arden Sr. and Peter were surprised by the early onset and intensity of Chris’ substance use. They join Diana to talk about the professionals they hired and how having financial resources was not the only solution to finding appropriate care for Chris. Arden Sr. reveals the helpful advice she received on their journey and which characteristics of the O’Connor family helped them survive and grow.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:10] Peter and Arden Sr. were surprised about their youngest son’s addiction problem.
[11:45] Paying for professionals kept their son alive. However, throwing money at a problem won’t fix it.
[14:20] Helpful advice that Arden Sr. received as a mom of an addict.
[20:20] How Chris prepared Arden for working with people who suffer from addiction.
[26:30] The characteristics of the O’Connor family that helped them survive and grow.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

You can’t just throw money at a problem and solve it.
It’s important to live in a community when finding sobriety, especially in early recovery.
It may be best to give your loved one a wake-up call by removing them from your home.
Forgiveness is a difficult step in the recovery process. However, it will be essential when it comes to navigating the disease of addiction.

LINKS MENTIONED:

O’Connor Professional Group

https://oconnorpg.com/

BIO:

Peter and Arden O’Connor Sr., parents of Arden O’Connor, Founder and CEO of O’Connor Professional Group, share their experiences navigating the behavioral health care system with their youngest son, Chris. A graduate of Holy Cross and Harvard Business School and successful real estate entrepreneur, Peter has a family history of alcoholism and is over thirty years sober himself. A dedicated and compassionate stay at home mom, Arden Sr. graduated from SUNY Stony Brook and worked as a probation officer, where she witnessed clients with an array of behavioral health issues.

Despite their personal and professional knowledge base, Arden Sr. and Peter were taken aback by the early onset and intensity of Chris’ substance abuse. Over the course of fifteen years, Chris cycled through 15 different rehabilitation programs, was prescribed over 25 medications, and worked with approximately 30 different clinical professionals. After spending countless hours doing their own research, hiring family lawyers, and investing over half a million dollars in Chris’ care, Arden Sr. and Peter were confused, exhausted and frustrated. Like many families, they couldn’t believe the level of turmoil and tragedy that Chris’ addiction caused in their otherwise harmonious, talented and blessed family.

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Andrew Caspersen lives and works in New York City and is actively involved in the recovery community. In this episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, Andrew opens up about his self-destructive path of drinking and gambling. After his arrest, Andrew talks about piecing his life back together. He speaks about his faith in the process of recovery and why trust needs to be an action-oriented process. Tune in as Andrew reveals the most significant lessons he’s learned on his journey.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:45] Andrew opens up about his self-destructive path of drinking and gambling. After his arrest, Andrew talks about piecing his life back together.
[14:20] The role faith has in the process of recovering from addiction.
[18:55] Rebuilding trust during recovery is an action-oriented process.
[22:35] How Andrew stays active in the recovery community, and he reveals the most significant lessons he’s learned on his journey.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Serving others is important in recovery, and positivity will be a bright light in all facets of your life.
Instead of trying to solve problems, sometimes people just want you to listen.
Knowing is half the battle; learn from other people who have been in your shoes.
Anything is possible, and all situations can get better.

BIO:

Andrew Caspersen lives and works in New York City and is actively involved in the recovery community. Once a partner at an investment bank, he was sentenced to a federal prison in 2016 for defrauding those who trusted him the most. Andrew is sharing his experience to help those interested in recovery, so that others may avoid the pain he brought on his victims and loved ones.

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On this episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, Dr. Blaise Aguirre, MD, a child adolescent psychiatrist, and Associate Professor in Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School speaks with Diana to discuss borderline personality disorder. Dr. Aguirre addresses the reluctance in diagnosing borderline personality disorder and dives into what effective treatment modalities there are for borderline personality disorder. Tune in as Dr. Aguirre discusses how emotional temperament can be genetic and shares the tips he has for parents who have a child with borderline personality disorder.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[03:35] Dr. Aguirre explains why clinicians are so reluctant to diagnose borderline personality disorder.
[07:20] There are a few theories around treatment for borderline personality disorder. Dr. Aguirre dives into the importance of regulating emotions and relationships.
[11:40] The tools that Dr. Aguirre recommends for fixing any problem.
[15:50] Are financial resources an advantage for people with a borderline personality disorder?
[18:10] Tips for parents who have a child with borderline personality disorder.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

When there are no quick treatments for a mental health disorder, therapists can be very reluctant to diagnose someone with it.
People with a borderline personality diagnosis at 22 may not have that diagnosis at 30.
Sixty percent of emotional temperament is genetic. People with borderline personality disorder tend to have family members with this condition.
The first step to fixing any problem is to understand exactly what the problem is.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Website

www.3east.org

Twitter

https://twitter.com/blaisemd

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/blaisemd/

BIO:

Blaise Aguirre, MD, a child and adolescent psychiatrist. He is an Associate Professor in Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. He is a trainer in, and specializes in, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) for borderline personality disorder and associated conditions. He is the founding medical director of 3East continuum of care, an array of programs for teens and young adults that uses DBT to target self-endangering behaviors as well as the symptoms of borderline personality disorder (BPD) traits. Dr. Aguirre has been a staff psychiatrist at McLean Hospital since 2000 and is nationally and internationally recognized for his extensive work in the treatment of mood and personality disorders in adolescents. He is an Associate Professor in Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and he lectures regularly all around the world.

Dr. Aguirre is the author or co-author of many books including:

Borderline Personality Disorder in Adolescents,
Mindfulness for Borderline Personality Disorder,
Coping with BPD, and former Amazon # 1 Bestseller DBT For Dummies

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Dorothy’s experience as the mother of a child with ADHD and Bipolar Disorder led to her interest in educating other families touched by these issues. First, Dorothy opens up about her experience parenting a daughter who struggled with her mental health for many years. She speaks about the journey of getting multiple opinions for her daughter’s diagnosis and reveals what she would have done differently for her family. Tune in to this episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet as we talk about what is preventing people from really finding and channeling resources to mental health concerns.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:10] Dorothy opens up about her experience parenting a daughter who is struggling with behavioral health issues.
[08:55] Dorothy searched tirelessly for answers. She speaks about the journey of getting multiple opinions for her daughter’s diagnosis.
[12:50] What Dorothy would have done differently with her family.
[24:05] About what is preventing people from really finding and channeling resources to mental health concerns.
[29:10] Overall, be respectful of your child's wishes.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Any major illness disrupts the family dynamic. An inordinate amount of attention and time is devoted to the one child that appears sick. While on the other hand, the siblings that appear normal are getting less attention.
Parents of children who have a major illness have a divorce rate of 80%.
Marriages that are fragile fall apart more easily than those that are strong.
It is very frustrating for a family to not have clarity around their loved one’s diagnosis. However, there should be a relief knowing that an illness can change over time.

LINKS MENTIONED:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dorothy-sprague-b498a71/

BIO:

Dorothy Whitmarsh, a native New Yorker with two grown daughters, is a graduate of Brown University and holds an MBA from New York University’s Stern School of Business. She retired from Wall Street in 1989. Dorothy has served on the boards of The Chapin School in New York City (where she was elected a corporate trustee and served for 20 years), The Dutchess Land Conservancy, the National Eating Disorders Association and the Republican Majority for Choice.

Dorothy’s experience as the mother of a child with ADHD and Bipolar Disorder led to her interest in educating others about the experience of families touched by these issues. Over the years she has consulted pro bono with numerous families trying to cope with the challenges of learning, eating and mood disorders in their children. In addition, she was a member of the National Council at McLean Hospital in Boston for several years while her daughter was treated there.

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Gary Mendell is the founder and CEO of Shatterproof, a national nonprofit focused on reversing the addiction crisis in America. Gary’s son, Brian, tried drugs and alcohol which ultimately led to addiction. Unfortunately, Brian died of this addiction disease that affects more than 22 million Americans every day. Gary discusses the warning signs that families should look out for, when worried if their child may be using substances. Tune in to this episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet as Gary talks all about Shatterproof and how they are changing the country’s consciousness around addiction.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:25] Gary shares his journey and his experience as a family with his son.
[07:20] Advice Gary gives families who are worried about their children using substances.
[16:45] How financial resources can help or hinder the process of recovering from addiction.
[21:20] Shatterproof is looking to help people with substance use disorder get the chance to find recovery
[24:10] How the field of recovery will look in the future.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Addiction is a treatable chronic illness. Every person with a substance use disorder deserves the chance to find recovery.
There were more than 93,000 fatal overdoses in 2020.
80% of people say they don’t want a friend, colleague, or neighbor with addiction. We need to reverse the shame around addiction.
Addiction is not a moral failing; you need to get the facts about this misunderstood medical condition.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Website

https://www.shatterproof.org

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/ShatterproofHQ/

https://linktr.ee/shatterproof

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/weareshatterproof

Twitter

https://twitter.com/ShatterproofHQ

BIO:

Gary Mendell is the founder and CEO of Shatterproof, a national nonprofit focused on reversing the course of the addiction crisis in America. After losing his son Brian to addiction in 2011, Gary founded Shatterproof to spare other families the tragedy his had suffered. Since founding Shatterproof in 2012, Mr. Mendell has been a national leader in the addiction space creating solutions that will create more access to treatment for Opioid and Substance Use Disorders including the creation of the Shatterproof National Principles of Care to guide providers, payers, and patients to quality treatment. He advocates for state and federal policy changes, and most recently launched a national strategy and call to action to address stigma related to Opioid and Substance Use Disorders.

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In this episode, we are joined by Nicholas MacPhee, an active philanthropist who has worked in nonprofits for over 20 years. First, Nick explains how he started working in the field of philanthropy with mental and behavioral health. Mental health resources and support services are needed now more than ever; Nick describes how he finds exemplary philanthropists to invest in innovative and unique companies. Tune in as Nick speaks about the importance of scale in philanthropy and why this generation is more active in philanthropic activities.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:00] How Nick started working in the field of philanthropy with mental and behavioral health.
[07:15] Resources and support services are crucially important now more than ever. Nick explains how he finds philanthropists to invest.
[13:10] Nick speaks about the importance of scale in philanthropy and reveals some of the edgier investments he's seen from large-scale foundations.
[20:00] Why this generation is more active in philanthropic activities.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Americans are becoming more open about mental health, and young generations understand the importance of philanthropic activities that support mental health concerns.
Often as a philanthropist, it’s easier to donate to your local university or to local nonprofits that are using innovative approaches.
More philanthropists are always welcome in the world: bring in your expertise, bring in your curiosity, and bring in your money.
Thanks to research, you can now intervene earlier when somebody is starting to show some symptoms of mental health decline. For instance, the onset of depression may occur eight years before significant interventions are necessary.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Website

https://www.interesttoimpact.com

Podcast

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/interest-to-impact/id1549724431

Twitter

https://twitter.com/interest2impact

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-macphee-interest2impact/

BIO:

Nick MacPhee has been an active philanthropist and worked in non-profits for over 20 years. A former V.P at Microsoft, he spent 20 years in the business sector. After leaving Microsoft, he helped start a mentoring program for at-risk youth, worked at two family foundations, and served on many boards. He's currently on the Boards of Eisenhower Medical Center in California and Pioneer Human Services in Washington. With his wife who is a family therapist, he co-founded the Behavioral Health Roundtable, a learning forum for philanthropists on mental health issues and solutions.

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Tavan Pechet is the founder of Pechet Advisors, where he provides management consulting to wealthy families. Relationship risk management is a way to manage the critically essential assets of relationships. Tavan reveals all of the reasons you need to manage relationship risk and the critical elements for successful family mediation. Tune in to this episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, as we chat about managing conflict and communication with families who disagree and the importance of due diligence, even with your family members.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:30] How risk management applies to relationships.
[04:30] Families need to think about what it means to manage relationship risk.
[08:55] The key elements for a successful family mediation.
[13:40] Managing conflict and communication with families who are disagreeing over an inheritance.
[19:20] Family due diligence: what to know before investing in a family-owned business.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Be proactive and manage family relationships before a crisis occurs.
Find a third party mediator to help you and your family find common ground.
Families don’t always need to stay together. Sometimes family relationships and assets will be better off when there’s a split.
You still need to do due diligence when going into business with your family.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Website - www.pechetadvisors.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/tavanpechet/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tavanpechet/

BIO:

Tavan Pechet is the founder of Pechet Advisors where he provides management consulting to wealthy families. He helps them design, build, and manage their operations to navigate complex family wealth matters. He has advised clients from entrepreneurs to inheritors to widows, controlling assets from $20 million to $5 billion.

Previously, Tavan spent a decade as CEO of a multi-generational family office. He also served as an executive of that family's operating business and as Trustee of their family trusts.

He has also worked as an executive for a venture-backed tech company, practiced law, and clerked for a federal judge. Tavan earned his AB from Harvard College, his JD from Harvard Law School, and his MBA from UCLA Anderson.

Grateful for his good fortune, Tavan donates time and money to gender equity, veterans’ affairs, democracy reform, and the environment.

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Sue Schwartzman joins us today to discuss a hot topic - building generational wealth. Sue has over two decades of experience working with high net worth individuals, families, and teens, helping them systematically and strategically engage in philanthropy and volunteerism while navigating and communicating money concerns and values. Sue begins by explaining how she advises and bridges gaps for families who have differing views on philanthropy by nurturing a cross-generational dialogue regarding decisions about generational wealth. Listen as Sue discusses the philanthropic views the younger generation is tackling, discretionary grantmaking, and the benefits of seeking out a generational wealth advisor.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:40] Sue always felt drawn to teaching and helping youth. She discusses her background and how she started her career path.
[06:00] The benefits and disadvantages to technology and the way the younger generation communicates.
[11:30] How Sue advises families with children who have different views of philanthropy from their parents.
[17:10]Philanthropic causes the youth of today are drawn towards that differ from previous generations.
[22:00] What role grandparents play when they’re sharing experiences of generational wealth engagement.
[24:45] The benefits of hiring a generational wealth advisor.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

As our world becomes more reliant on technology that gives us the ability to access information immediately, this can inadvertently cause youth to experience more stress and anxiety. Also, hindering their ability to make deeper level connections that go beyond technology.
Youth today are exploring different areas of philanthropy that weren't present in older generations, such as climate change and ending institutional racism.
The easiest way for families across generations to come together to do good in the world is by being open, honest and creating a dialogue about each family member’s core values.
Even the most skilled and well-intentioned person, who wants to bring their family together to do good in the world, can benefit from a discussion with a generational wealth professional.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Website - https://www.schwartzmanadvising.com/

Twitter

BIO:

Sue has over two decades of experience working with high net worth individuals, families and teens, to systematically and strategically engage in philanthropy and volunteerism and to navigate and communicate about money and values. Sue pioneered one of the most esteemed teen philanthropy programs internationally. Her work is responsible for training more than 900 teenagers who have raised over $7 Million for an array of non-profits. Her work has also been featured in The San Francisco Chronicle, Investor’s Business Daily, The Atlantic Philanthropies, The Chronicle of Philanthropy, Chicago Tribune and Times of Israel. A CAP ( Certified Advisor in Philanthropy) Candidate, A 21/64-certified multigenerational family trainer, speaker, and advisor, Sue is a master at giving voice to all generations around the family philanthropy table, and at connecting family members in new and lasting ways.

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Carrie Hausner Casden is an established business manager and money coach who has been in practice for over 25 years. Carrie opens the show by explaining how everyone has different perspectives and habits when it comes to money; there are especially significant differences between the money mindsets of men and women. If you are going through a divorce or considering divorce, Carrie explains the importance and benefits of hiring a money coach. Tune in as we chat about the importance of a savings account, the complexity of retail therapy, and how to still find joy with spending money.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:45] Each family member can have different perspectives and habits when it comes to money.
[07:40] Unfortunately, there’s a lot of shame and guilt for women around financial mistakes.
[10:00] During a divorce, so many things are happening. Carrie explains why you may need a money coach.
[14:40] Curb emotional spending: how to deal and prevent retail therapy.
[19:30] How to improve your savings while still finding joy in having money.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Some women can spend $10,000 on a purse, but they're nervous about putting $10,000 into the stock market or investment.
Finances don’t have to be complicated; there's a simple way to do it.
A money coach can support you in understanding the financial aspect of going through a divorce.
During the pandemic, people realized that they don’t actually need a lot of stuff. Think about why you are shopping; is it emotional?

LINKS MENTIONED:

Website - https://carriecasden.com/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/carrie.casden/

Facebook Business - https://www.facebook.com/CarrieCasdenCoach/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/carrie_casden

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/carriecasdencoach/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/carriecasdencoach

BIO:

Carrie Casden is an established business manager and money coach who has been in practice for over 25 years. She works with a wide array of clients helping them to understand their relationship with money and provides services that assist clients with taking care of their day to day financial needs. She is the perfect blend of a financial quarterback and trainer

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Jay Bacrania, CEO and Co-Founder of Signet Education LLC, and Sheila Akbar, Signet's President and COO, are guests on this week’s episode. Signet helps students and parents develop skills they will need to overcome challenges and empower students to make successful decisions in college. Jay and Sheila explain how parents can navigate engagement with their child who has difficulty with executive functioning challenges. In addition, they discuss the importance of having healthy boundaries during the college admissions process. Tune in as Jay and Sheila give their thoughts on the challenges of working with affluent families and the massive need for executive function support and structure during the pandemic.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:30] About Jay Bacrania and Sheila Akbar. They speak about the inspiration for Signet and how their vision has evolved.
[09:10] How to engage a student who is having difficulty with executive functioning challenges.
[15:50] Parents need to have healthy boundaries when it comes to the college admissions process.
[20:50] There is a tremendous rise in mental health issues during the pandemic. Executive function support and structure are needed now more than ever.
[30:00] The challenges of working with affluent families.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Students should create a habit of reflection and self-understanding that will allow them to build a foundation for academic success.
Parents should create the space for students to feel safe in exploring some solutions for their academic challenges.
Students don’t need to know what to do; instead, they need to know how to think.
Parents and students shouldn't be worried about the reputation of a college. Instead, they need to consider which college will allow students to become the person they want to become.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Website

https://signeteducation.com/

Twitter

@SignetEducation

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/SignetEducation/

BIO:

Jay Bacrania

Jay is the CEO and Co-Founder of Signet Education LLC. His passion for education began in high school and continued throughout college, during which time he ran three different tutoring and mentoring organizations. After graduating from Harvard in 2005, Jay began tutoring privately, and eventually co-founded Signet Education with a friend, with the idea that they could build a company that was focused less on jumping through hoops, and more on genuine education.

Signet Education is built on the premise that each student is on a unique educational journey. That journey is external -- doing well in school, finding the right college, and getting in; but it’s also internal -- understanding oneself better, building skills to be effective in the classroom and in life, developing a love of learning, and using education to navigate to a place in the world where one can define and build a meaningful and successful life.

Over the last 15 years, Jay and Sheila have worked together to build a world-class organization that works with students in a highly personalized way to help them define their academic path--both external and internal--and achieve their goals, setting themselves up for a successful and meaningful life.

Sheila Akbar

Sheila is Signet's President and COO and our resident admissions and test prep expert. She joined the Signet team in 2010, bringing with her a wealth of experience teaching SAT, ACT, GRE, literature, and composition in both one-on-one and classroom settings. Sheila loves both teaching and learning, and finds nothing more rewarding than working closely with students to overcome the challenges they face.

After graduating from Harvard in 2002, she spent two years working in financial services before continuing her academic career, which culminated in two doctorates. She brings her significant business and academic experience to bear on her current role at Signet, which includes managing the administrative team, speaking to every incoming client to match them with the right tutors and services, and providing educational thought leadership for the company. Sheila holds a bachelor's degree and master's degree from Harvard University and two doctoral degrees from Indiana University.

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Elizabeth Kelley is a criminal defense lawyer with a nationwide practice specializing in representing people with mental illness and intellectual/developmental disabilities. She built her practice integrating both criminal defense and mental illness because she firmly believes those with mental disabilities do not belong in the criminal justice system, and jail and prison are not treatment. Elizabeth discusses the range of people with all different types of mental and intellectual disabilities she represents in her practice, the detrimental effects the criminal justice system has on people with mental disabilities, and the lack of programs and resources for these individuals.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:38] How Elizabeth started in law and within her speciality.
[10:09] The variety of ways Elizabeth is approached by different clients for cases.
[13:16] The criminal justice system is the worst place for a person with mental disabilities. Proving to be destructive to that individual and their mental health.
[15:39] Elizabeth’s overall observations of the criminal justice system.
[19:36] There is a nationwide shortage of appropriate resources, services and providers for offenders. In addition, many programs may have exclusions to which people can join.
[23:29] Has Elizabeth seen facilities that have “locked down” or forcible options demonstrate success with somebody who has behavioral health issues?
[29:14] One case that was especially influential in Elizabeth’s career.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

As an attorney, Elizabeth serves a wide range of individuals with mental and intellectual disabilities, ranging from bipolar and schizophrenia to autism and fetal alcohol syndrome.
The legal system is becoming more aware of the fact that people with mental disabilities should be diverted out of the system, and the current punishments to people with mental illnesses are inappropriate and, in some cases, destructive to that individual.
In the cases that Elizabeth deals with, they often require a team of different experts, specialists and resources, which can often create another obstacle for the client and family in an already difficult situation.
It’s important for individuals with mental or intellectual disabilities to have representation that will work for them and their disability.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Elizabeth Kelley Website

https://www.elizabethkelleylaw.com/

Twitter

https://twitter.com/MentalHealthEsq

https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-kelley-14110430/

BIO:

I am a criminal defense lawyer with a nationwide practice focused on representing people with mental disabilities.

My family settled in the Palouse Country of Washington Territory in 1872. I was born and raised in Spokane and I returned to the Inland Northwest in 2012.

My experience includes:

Co-chairing the Criminal Justice Advisory Panel of The Arc's National Center on Criminal Justice and Disability.
Editing of Representing People with Mental Disabilities: A Practical Guide for Criminal Defense Lawyers (American Bar Association 2018) and Representing People with Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Practical Guide for Criminal Defense Lawyers (American Bar Association 2020).
Serving on the Council of the ABA's Criminal Justice Section as well as on the Editorial Board of the Criminal Justice Section Magazine.
Serving on the ABA's Commission on Disability Rights.
Serving as a Non-Governmental Observer on behalf of the ABA of the Military Commission Hearings at Guantanomo.
Serving three terms on the board of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL), chairing its Mental Health as well as Membership Committees, serving on the Problem-Solving Courts and Body Camera Task Forces, and becoming a Life Member.
Traveling to Liberia in 2009 and 2014 as part of a delegation sponsored by the U.N. Commission on Drugs and Crime and NACDL to train that country's criminal defense bar.
Lecturing across the U.S. as well as abroad on representing people with mental disabilities and frequently providing commentary for radio and television.
Serving as President of The Spokane Symphony, as well as the boards of The Arc of Spokane and the Museum of Arts and Culture (The MAC).
Completing my 200 hour and 500 hour Yoga certification.

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Danielle Oristian York is a speaker, consultant, and trainer working with those who seek to change the future through a strategic and operational exploration of values and identity. Danielle opens the show by speaking about her role as the executive director of 21/64, a nonprofit practice founded to serve philanthropic and enterprising families. Danielle reveals how we should have conversations with younger generations around wealth and philanthropy. As parents, we need to take advantage of our highly connected society and teach our children about using money as a tool. Lastly, Danielle explains why you should never outsource your parenting.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:45] Danielle speaks about her role as the executive director of 21/64.
[09:00] Millennials are huge contributors to the economy and politics. Danielle reveals how we should have conversations with younger generations around wealth and philanthropy.
[15:10] We have an opportunity to parent in a way that protects our kids and keeps them safe. Parents should take advantage of our highly communicative and connected society.
[19:05] How to talk to your children about using money as a tool.
[24:00] Remember, don’t outsource your parenting.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Our work as humans is to grow and evolve and adapt to a changing world.
Ask yourself what success looks like for your children around their money behaviors.
Do not outsource your parenting around money.
You don't have to be an expert in wealth or communication in order to parent well.

LINKS MENTIONED:

21/64

www.2164.net

Twitter

https://twitter.com/2164buzz/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/2164philanthropy/

BIO:

Danielle Oristian York is a speaker, consultant and trainer working with those who seek to change the future through a strategic and operational exploration of values and identity. She is an internationally recognized expert on multigenerational and next generation philanthropy and family decision making and works with individuals, families and organizations in this capacity.

As executive director of 21/64, a nonprofit practice founded to serve philanthropic and enterprising families, she and her partners develop and train on catalytic tools for transforming how individuals and families articulate their values and use them as benchmarks for decision making, both now and in the future.

Danielle’s experience working in wealth management, a family office and the non-profit space has given her different vantage points from which to catalyze and support strategic decision making. With more than 15 years of experience, a constant curiosity and warm presence, new and seasoned philanthropists, as well as the advisors who serve them, are drawn to her as they navigate what is next. Prior to joining the 21/64 Team, Danielle worked at UBS and Pitcairn Family office. She is married, with two children, and lives on the south shore of Boston.

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Dr. Jordan Shlain believes good medicine and great health come only from a deep understanding of people, data, and science. First, we discuss Dr. Shlain’s unique approach to the healthcare system and the background and experiences that led to his family office. Dr. Shlain reveals why wealth changes the outcome of how he can deliver healthcare. Plus, we discuss the type of people willing to avoid the insurance route and become his patients. Tune in as Dr. Shlain reveals the biggest surprise he came across when starting his practice.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:30] Dr. Shlain opens up about his background and experience.
[10:30] How Dr. Shlain’s practice differs from the old country doctor approach.
[16:50] The types of people willing to avoid insurance and become patients of Dr. Shlain.
[21:20] Why access to wealth changes the outcome of how Dr. Shlain can deliver healthcare.
[28:00] Dr. Shlain reveals the biggest surprise he came across when starting his practice.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

People are resentful for paying extra on top of their insurance, making it feel like the doctor is greedy. However, insurance companies do not pay doctors much money.
People want to know that there's a doctor they can trust.
Find a doctor that has zero incentive other than your good outcome.
Life's too short to deal with people that are either abusive or cross your boundaries at every turn.

BIO:

I believe good medicine and great health come only from a deep understanding of people, data, and science.

I am a doctor who takes his craft seriously and has built the model family office for health and medicine in the United States. I read, write and speak on healthcare innovation in the spirit of advancing & enhancing the experience people, both doctors and patients, have while traversing Fortress healthcare.

My hobbies are linguistics, quantum physics, neuroscience, anthropology, music, social science and humanity.

Not afraid to be wrong if it moves the ball forward. Working on solving social problems; not predicting them. Interested in getting it right; not being right.

The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.

– Marcel Proust

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Heidi Webb has been licensed to practice law in Massachusetts and before the Federal District and Appeals Courts since 1986. In today’s episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, we talk all about the different ways to restructure a family besides the typical divorce. Heidi likes to work backward with her clients by encouraging them to think about where they want their families to be in ten years, and then devise a plan from there. In addition, Heidi explains how the consilium process differs from a regular divorce and the importance of restructuring a family to keep control. Tune in as Heidi talks about what consilium looks like for families with kids and families with complicated financial situations.

Visit our website at: beyondthebalancesheet.com.

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We all know someone who has psychopathy; however, not everyone knows the truth about it, how to identify the warning signs or what to do next once they identify the psychopath. Dr. Ron Schouten, Director of the Forensic Psychiatry Fellowship at St. Elizabeth's Hospital, Director Emeritus of the Law & Psychiatry Service of the Massachusetts General Hospital, and Chair of the Association of Threat Assessment Professionals Governmental Affairs Committee, joins Arden and Diana this week to discuss the complexities of psychopathy. Dr. Schouten says you should not despair if someone you love shows signs of psychopathy and you should not overreact to their symptoms. Tune in as we chat about what to do when a loved one is diagnosed with psychopathy and how to identify a psychopath at the country club.

Visit our website at: beyondthebalancesheet.com.

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Wealth advisors are continually nudged into broader elements of their client's lives. It’s up to these financial advisors to fulfill the role in addressing many situations, which helps them build a solid financial plan encompassing all aspects of their client's lives. In today’s episode, Michael Conway, founder and CEO of Conway Wealth Group, and Zach Conway, Managing Director of Conway Wealth, join Arden and Diana to explain how they are supporting their clients' wealth in what matters. Michael and Zach discuss establishing a level of trust with their clients and initiating conversations about the non-financial issues in their lives. Finally, as our society becomes more open to discussing mental health, they address the changes they are experiencing in conversations with their clients.

Visit our website at: beyondthebalancesheet.com.

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Ellen Perry is the founder and principal of Wealth Bridge Partners, and has years of experience working with families of substantial wealth. Talking about money among family members can bring out difficult emotions and stress. In this week’s episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, Ellen tells us how she personally works with families to tackle tough decisions and open the lines of communication between family members. Tune in to this episode to learn more from Ellen Perry.

Visit our website at: beyondthebalancesheet.com.

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Julia Karol is the president and COO of the Watermill Group. She has a number of different philanthropic engagements and was named the Most Influential Women in Mid-Market M&A by Mergers and Acquisitions Magazine for three consecutive years. Julia is also the host of Stork’d, a podcast that explores and celebrates the many paths to building a family.

As a person who went through it herself, Julia shares her advice on how you can get through your own fertility journey. Family building is one of the biggest decisions you can make in life, and with the many modern ways to explore what this may look like for you, there are many unique options and opportunities. In this episode, Julia shares her fertility journey, the lessons she learned along the way, and her experience building her own family as a solo parent.

Visit our website at: beyondthebalancesheet.com.

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Rob Lachenauer is a partner and CEO at Banyan Global. He has been both a consultant and entrepreneur, and has traveled extensively throughout the world doing consulting work and entrepreneurial advice work. Rob has written a book that has been translated into at least 7 languages called Harvard Business Review Family Business Handbook: How to Build and Sustain a Successful, Enduring Enterprise that talks about success and endurance in the family business. Tune in as Rob shares the lessons he learned from his experience working with high-net-worth families who question whether or not they are the ‘worst family ever’.

Visit our website at: beyondthebalancesheet.com.

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Stacie Feldman Hausner, Esq. has successfully mediated hundreds of cases in the areas of business, family conflicts, personal injury, employment, real estate, and other areas. She is known as an out-of-the-box thinker, which is why we’re very excited to have her as a guest today. Stacie is an expert on the issue of conflict in general and finding solutions that work with everybody, even when it doesn’t make everyone happy. Tune in as Stacie gives advice to family members and advisors dealing with family dynamics, conflict, and mediation.

Visit our website at: beyondthebalancesheet.com.

Although OPG has attempted to provide accurate information on its website and its podcasts, we assume no responsibility for the accuracy of the information and makes no other representations or warranties whatsoever with respect to the services, resources, content and materials of any third parties. Mention of non-OPG services is for informational purposes only and constitutes neither an endorsement nor a recommendation. The content here should not be taken as any form medical or other professional advice. Please consult your professionals or providers for any specific questions or issues.

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Coventry Edwards-Pitt, affectionately known as Covie, is a partner and Chief Creative Officer at Ballentine Partners. She is an author who has written several books, including, “Healthy, Wealthy, and Wise,” and has held numerous jobs and positions in her 24 years of experience. Covie’s experience makes her not just facile in dealing with individual concerns, but with families as well. In this episode, we will be covering how parents can better support the well-being of their children as they grow to become responsible, functioning, and capable adults.

Visit our website at: beyondthebalancesheet.com.

Although OPG has attempted to provide accurate information on its website and its podcasts, we assume no responsibility for the accuracy of the information and makes no other representations or warranties whatsoever with respect to the services, resources, content and materials of any third parties. Mention of non-OPG services is for informational purposes only and constitutes neither an endorsement nor a recommendation. The content here should not be taken as any form medical or other professional advice. Please consult your professionals or providers for any specific questions or issues.

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In today’s episode, we invited David Korb to be a guest. He is the founder of Commonwealth Student Services that provides personalized educational consulting and concierge services to domestic and international students. They are dedicated to providing the highest level of tailored services to students and their families to facilitate and enhance their entire educational experience. Listen in as David shares his experiences working and supporting students on campus, communicating with them in a way that they felt heard and seen, and how parents can continue parenting even from a distance.

Visit our website at: beyondthebalancesheet.com.

Although OPG has attempted to provide accurate information on its website and its podcasts, we assume no responsibility for the accuracy of the information and makes no other representations or warranties whatsoever with respect to the services, resources, content and materials of any third parties. Mention of non-OPG services is for informational purposes only and constitutes neither an endorsement nor a recommendation. The content here should not be taken as any form medical or other professional advice. Please consult your professionals or providers for any specific questions or issues.

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We have a wonderful guest in this podcast episode, Janet Benvenuti. Janet is considered one of the country's leading health and family advocates. She founded Circle of Life Partners and has counseled hundreds of families and educated thousands of people on how to plan for longevity and support of aging relatives without disrupting their careers, damaging health, or depleting a family's finances. Janet also advises leading clinicians, business executives, professional advisors, and entrepreneurs on how to best meet the needs of an aging population and their adult children. In this episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, Janet discusses normalizing conversations around aging, understanding the process, and providing and preparing for support throughout the process. Visit our website at: beyondthebalancesheet.com.

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Dr. Lee Hausner is a recognized clinical psychologist, business consultant, and seminar leader. And amongst her many accolades and professional achievement, she has written a book titled Children of Paradise: Successful Parenting for Prosperous Families. She is a renowned speaker for Young Presidents’ Organization, World Presidents’ Organization, TIGER 21, and has worked with high-net-worth families. In this episode, she will be talking about her experiences from 30 years of working with families, the values she believes in, and how you can help your client holistically.

Visit our website at: beyondthebalancesheet.com

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Kristen Heaney helps successful families connect across generations at the intersection of values, purpose, and financial success. In this episode, Kristen shares how her being a young and unprepared inheritor after her father’s early death colored the passion she has for her work as a wealth legacy coach and consultant and her advice to both financial advisors and families of different generations.

Visit our website at: beyondthebalancesheet.com

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We are excited to be joined by Greg Henning in today’s episode. Greg has worked in the District Attorneys' office and has had an outstanding educational career. He was also a member of the Homicide Response Team and Chief of the Gang Unit. Now, he runs a very different company at Henning Strategies and works on crisis management and legal strategies for people who are in trouble. Talk about an impressive resume! In this episode, Greg discusses the kind of services his firm offers under the Critical Incident niche, avoiding critical incidents, the art of public apology, and what he has learned throughout his career.

Visit our website at: beyondthebalancesheet.com

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Governance is ‘the way things are done around here’. It is the development of policies, procedures, and structures and ultimately, it comes down to communication, decision-making, clear boundaries, roles and responsibilities, and finding a way to document this for the benefit of the clients. Today’s guest is Daniel Trimarchi, he is part of the KPMG Private Enterprise Family Business practice, which specializes in family governance and succession planning. In this episode, Daniel shares his experience in creating governance structures, facilitating safe conversations, and removing the advisors biases when working with clients.

Visit our website at: beyondthebalancesheet.com

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Suicide is not something that discriminates. It does not have any economic, status, or gender boundary. Margaret Stone and Neil Smith join us to talk about a topic impacting so many people. Speaking from the heart and a place of vulnerability, Margaret and Neil share their experience with suicide in their family and how to help people who are going through a difficult time in their lives.

Visit our website at: beyondthebalancesheet.com

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Dr. Jim Grubman is a family wealth consultant and serves as the curriculum expert and chair for the ultra-high net worth institute. He works with families and understands both the psychology of families and the complexities that come with being a high-net-worth family. Dr. Grubman shares with us how wealth is much more complicated to learn and adapt to. Tune in as we talk about issues often arising around wealth and how a consultant can help.

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Meet Katie, Diana’s god-daughter and the beneficiary of a multi-generational trust. As someone who has struggled with mental health issues, eating disorders, and substance abuse, Katie has advice for our listeners on what to consider when interacting with people who have similar situations such as hers. Tune in as Katie gives experience-based advice to parents, family members, and trust officers on how to deal with people who struggle with similar issues.

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In today’s episode, we are joined by Scott E. Squillace who is a business, tax, and estate planning attorney with 34 years of experience practicing law. His practice includes estate planning needs for an international clientele, corporate executives, small business owners, physicians, attorneys, and other professionals. In this episode, we talk about how his life circumstances that evolved over decades made him very comfortable with his niche. He shares advice on dealing, approaching, and communicating with clients with or has a family member with mental illness or substance abuse. How to work with trust instruments & trustees, and more.

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Diana and Arden will discuss the benefits of gratitude journals.

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We are lucky to be joined by Dr. Daniel Carlin, a board-certified emergency physician and national leader in the field of telemedicine. Dr. Carlin opens the show to speak about the most substantial healthcare gap he fills with his medical practice. Unfortunately, there is a massive problem around continuity and accountability in the healthcare system. There needs to be familiarity between the patient and their physician to get an excellent diagnosis. One way to create a strong relationship between physician and patient is through technology. Tune in as Dr. Carlin talks about the correlation between wealth and health and what you need to know about our healthcare system's future.

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In anticipation of Valentine’s Day, Diana and Arden discuss the ways in which they show kindness to those closest to them.

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Dr. Paul L. Hokemeyer, a licensed marriage and family therapist, consultant, and author. He is one of the world's foremost experts on resolving the complex, sensitive, and highly nuanced issues that arise among the world's most prominent families. Dr. Paul describes how he developed his expertise in working with the wealthy and powerful. We discuss how some behavioral health providers may not be trained in addressing the needs of ultra-high net worth families. Paul reveals what techniques are effective when professionals encounter challenging personalities with large egos and narcissism. Tune in as we share information about how to effectively have sensitive discussions with your clients to maximize the chances they will be open to your opinions.

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Arden and Diana discuss the ways a structure of practicing gratitude increases measurable happiness.

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Joanna Gordon Martin has spent years as a respected entrepreneur, investor, and biotech industry executive. Joanna founded Theia Senior Solutions to meet the clients' needs that she understands well: adult children facing the decline of a parent's health and cognitive function while at the peak of their own career and family obligations. Joanna gives tips on when it's time to have a conversation with your parents about their declining health. Later, Joanna speaks about how caregiving conversations are changing during the global pandemic and the ways people are reconsidering how to keep themselves well. Tune in as we talk about how a simple phone call can make a significant difference in someone's life, and Joanna gives tips for supporting older adults.

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Arden and Diana discuss the benefits of small steps towards changing the status quo.

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Arden and Diana discuss the ways to approach this holiday season in the middle of a pandemic that may actually result in a silver lining for families.

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Eric Brotman opens the show speaking about how he helps clients through a crisis as a financial advisor. When there is a spouse's loss, Eric will make sure that there is a multi-generational approach when it comes to the family. As a financial advisor, Eric needs to be alerted when a family crisis occurs. However, Eric understands that he is not a therapist, and he doesn't cross that fine line. When conflict occurs, a financial advisor may be one of the first people that get a call and an advisor needs to be ready to have tough conversations. Tune in as Eric speaks about overspending, showing tough love to clients, and navigating cognitive impairment.

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Dr. Leon speaks about his mental health diagnosis, establishing his diagnosis of bipolar two disorder later in life. Dr. Leon believes if he had been diagnosed early on in his life, he might not have had so many creative experiences. Although, Dr. Leon thinks that his personal life would not have been as tumultuous if he had been diagnosed earlier. Tune in as Dr. Leon reveals the close relationship he had with his financial advisor & how to speak with your loved ones about mental illness.

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Our goal is to promote a sense of family recovery by educating people on mental wellbeing and physical wellbeing. When one of your clients has a serious issue, we provide information that will help you have a meaningful conversation with them. Mental illness is a massive topic that we will cover throughout this podcast. If someone you know has a mental illness, there is not a limited trajectory for their life; that’s just one myth that we want to debunk. Tune in as we talk about the power of finding the right resources.

Beyond The Balance Sheet Podcast: Recent Episodes

Diana Clark & Arden O'Connor

Beyond The Balance Sheet Podcast: Recent Episodes

Diana Clark &amp; Arden O'Connor

Diana Clark & Arden O'Connor