Family Office Success

Join host Christi Van Rite in conversation with estate planning and insurance experts Norman Ross and Harold Unger as they share real case studies that reveal what happens when families ignore sound advice - and what's possible when they take action.In this episode, you'll hear:• The $200M+ estate heading toward a "fire sale" because decades of advice went unheeded—and how proper planning could have prevented adopting "Uncle Sam and the State" as additional heirs• The remarkable story of $80,000 that grew to $40 million, and the strategic planning that protected it from estate taxes across multiple generations• Why bringing ALL your advisors to the table together creates dramatically better outcomes than working in silos• The "financial fire drill" technique that reveals gaps in estate plans before it's too late• How changing tax laws (written in "pencil with big erasers") mean your 15-year-old estate plan might be costing your family millions.Norman and Harold bring decades of experience working with ultra-high-net-worth families, combining insurance strategy, tax planning, and trust structures to help families preserve wealth across generations. Their storytelling approach makes complex concepts accessible and entertaining.Key Takeaway: Estate planning isn't about death- t's about not adopting additional children (the IRS and state tax authorities) and keeping more wealth in your family.Connect with Norman Ross and Harold Unger:Harold M. Unger J.D., LL.M. President, The Unger Company, Ltd. (t) 212-755-4777 x100 https://UngerLtd.comNorman E. Ross The Ross Companies Direct 212-397-2314 [email protected] www.rosscompanies.com www.linkedin.com/in/normanerossVisit WhiteRiverConsultants.com for more resources on family office services.

Exploring Citizenship and Residency by Investment with Simon Gabbay of Henley & Partners.In this episode of the Family Office Success podcast, host Christi Van Rite talks with Simon Gabbay from Henley and Partners about citizenship and residency by investment programs.They discuss the rising interest in these programs, especially among American families, and the factors influencing such decisions, including political, economic shifts, and tax reforms. Simon explains the differences between citizenship and residency programs, the documentation required, and the due diligence involved. They also discuss trends, such as the increasing due diligence standards and the emergence of merit-based programs.This episode is packed with insights for families and advisors considering expanding their global mobility through second citizenship or residency.Website: henleyglobal.comSimon’s Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simon-gabbay-663195120/Passport Status page: https://www.henleyglobal.com/passport-power

When it comes to dividing family collections and heirlooms, the challenges go far beyond financial value. Michelle Castro, VP of Trust and Estates at Heritage Auctions, breaks down why tangible personal property creates some of the most complex issues in estate planning.In this clip, Michelle discusses:✓ Valuation challenges - determining actual worth✓ Emotional attachment and sentimental value✓ Distribution issues - who gets what?✓ Lack of knowledge about collections✓ Missing documentation and provenance"You can't cut a painting in half" - Michelle's memorable insight captures the unique complexity of dividing art, jewelry, collectibles, and other tangible assets among family members.Whether you're managing a family office, planning your estate, or advising clients with significant collections, understanding these challenges is crucial for avoiding family disputes and ensuring smooth wealth transfer.

In this episode of the Family Office Success podcast, Christi Van Rite explores the world of auction houses with Kathleen O'Brien, Director of Trust and Estates at Bonhams. Kathleen discusses her background in the art world, Bonhams's acquisition of Skinner, and the scope and operations of the auction house. They delve into market trends, focusing on the shift from fine art to luxury goods, and the evolving tastes across generations. Kathleen explains the auction process from consignment to final sale, emphasizing Bonhams's global reach and local approach. This episode offers valuable insights into how auction houses operate, the appraisal process, and the transparency and accessibility of auctions.

In this episode of the Family Office Success podcast, Christi Van Rite hosts Caroline Baker Smith, Vice President and Senior Director at Freeman's Auction House. They discuss how families can choose the right auction house, demystify the auction process, and the specific niche Freeman's fills in the auction market. Caroline shares her extensive background in the auction world, Freeman's history, and their broad range of specialties including fine art, jewelry, furniture, decorative arts, and even niche categories like sports memorabilia and vintage firearms. The conversation covers the importance of appraisals, maintaining records, and how auction houses often collaborate to serve clients' diverse collections. This episode offers invaluable insights for anyone interested in navigating the complex world of auctions.

In this episode of the Family Office Success podcast, Christi Van Rite engages in a detailed conversation with Joey Quigley, Senior Vice President at Christie's Auction House, focusing on the nuances of auction houses. Joey shares his unique career journey from opera singing to art auctions, providing insights into Christie's global operations, the types of items they auction, and the various services they offer, such as appraisals and art financing. The episode also delves into the process of consigning items for auction and offers practical advice for families considering working with an auction house. Listeners will gain a thorough understanding of how to navigate the auction world and the importance of appraising and managing art collections as part of their overall asset portfolios.

In this episode of the Family Office Success podcast, Christi Van Rite sits down with Erin Marie Wallace to discuss the ins and outs of working with auction houses. Erin Marie shares her extensive background in fine and decorative art, as well as her experience as an auctioneer and auction house owner. The conversation covers topics such as when to involve an auction house, understanding key industry terms, the differences between regional and marquee auction houses, and the value of using independent advisors in the auction process. This episode aims to provide listeners with a high-level overview of how auction houses operate, helping them feel more informed and confident when navigating this part of the industry.

In this episode of the Family Office Success Podcast, host Christi Van Rite welcomes Rachel Jackson of Rachel Jackson Design to discuss the transformative power of sensory-aware interior design. Together, they explore strategies for creating family homes that support neurodivergence, sensory sensitivities, and evolving household needs. Rachel shares her holistic approach - layering lighting, managing acoustics, and collaborating with specialists - to ensure spaces are both functional and emotionally nurturing. The conversation offers actionable insights for families and advisors seeking to design homes that foster well-being, organization, and comfort for every member, reinforcing the value of thoughtful, inclusive environments.Sensory Friendly Home Blueprint - https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/I3LjvmryfXn4CgTXJQry Need a little extra help for the holidays? Check out Rachel's Holiday Tips!https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cQ6bb9ETrxERachel Jackson – Founder, Rachel Jackson Design & The Home Design LabADHD-Friendly & Wellness-Centered Interior Designer | IDCEC Educator | Neurodiversity AdvocateRachel helps adults & families, especially those navigating ADHD, autism, and sensory challenges, create homes that feel calm, intuitive, and supportive. She blends aesthetics with practical problem-solving to reduce stress and support everyday living.LINKS: Where to Find Rachel Website: https://www.racheljacksondesign.com/IG: https://www.instagram.com/racheljacksondesign/FB: https://www.facebook.com/rjdesignatxYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@racheljacksondesignLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-jackson-design/LISTENER DEAL: Podcast listeners enjoy a special discount on my signature course:Interior Design For ADHD-Friendly Homes (Part 1) - a practical, eye-opening guide to designing spaces that support sensory needs.Use code PODCASTLOVE at checkout:Link: https://courses.racheljacksondesign.com/course/adhd-friendly-interior-design-pt1

https://www.enlightenedphilanthropy.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-goldstein-48b31119/Deborah's resource to help guide family conversations: https://www.enlightenedphilanthropy.com/family-philanthropy-guideIn this episode of the Family Office Success Podcast, industry leader Deborah Goldstein of Enlightened Philanthropy joins the host to demystify family philanthropy. They discuss the importance of intentional, values-driven giving, common obstacles families face, and the unique role of a philanthropic advisor. Deborah shares practical strategies for engaging multiple generations, empowering women in philanthropy, and fostering meaningful, collaborative giving. Listeners gain actionable insights on aligning charitable efforts with family values and navigating the complexities of philanthropic vehicles, ensuring their impact is both effective and personally fulfilling.

In this episode of the Family Office Success Podcast, Christi addresses the looming “great silver tsunami”—a wave of retirements among first-generation family office executives. Drawing on real-world examples, the episode explores the challenges of talent shortages, knowledge drain, and outdated systems. Listeners are guided through three transition strategies: traditional hiring, doing nothing, or partnering with strategic providers. Emphasizing proactive succession planning, technology upgrades, and tailored advisory solutions, the host underscores the importance of early preparation to ensure continuity, minimize risk, and position family offices for long-term success in an evolving landscape.

In this episode of the Family Office Success podcast, host Christi converses with Lindsay Loomis from Emry Health. They discuss the complexities of navigating the healthcare system, including critical topics such as open enrollment, the importance of evaluating healthcare plans, and avoiding common pitfalls. Lindsay shares her background, the services Emry Health provides, and the value of having an expert consultant to manage healthcare benefits. They emphasize the importance of choosing the right plan to maximize benefits and reduce costs for families. The episode also highlights the significant financial impact of errors in medical claims and the advantages of using a healthcare concierge service.00:00 Introduction to the Family Office Success Podcast01:46 Meet Lindsay Loomis: A Journey in Healthcare and Insurance03:06 Understanding Emory Health's Expertise03:56 Navigating Open Enrollment: Key Dates and Tips05:08 The Importance of Reviewing Your Healthcare Plan07:51 How Consultants Can Help During Open Enrollment10:51 The Financial Impact of Healthcare Choices14:22 Mitigating Healthcare Risks with Expert Help16:56 The Role of Consultants in Healthcare Management21:38 How Practitioners Can Support Families26:37 Conclusion and Contact InformationLindsay: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsay-loomis-mba-6663845/Emry Concierge: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/emry-emryconcierge/posts/?feedView=all

In this episode of the "Family Office Success Podcast," host Christi Van Rite and industry expert Kyle McDaniel explore the foundations of effective family office leadership. They discuss the critical importance of building “A” teams, aligning strategy and values, and fostering intentionality and clarity in decision-making. Drawing on decades of experience, Kyle shares practical frameworks for team building, risk mitigation, and sustaining multigenerational success. Listeners gain actionable insights on integrating people, systems, and processes to drive growth and resilience in family offices. The episode concludes with resources for further support and an invitation to join the Family Office Success community.Bonding Through Experience & Episode Theme (00:01:23)Christi and Kyle reflect on their working relationship and introduce the episode’s focus: leadership, team, strategy, and values.Kyle’s Background & Career Journey (00:02:18)The Value of the Right Team Over the Right Idea (00:04:45)Framework for Decision-Making & People as the Ultimate Variable (00:06:16)Building Teams Intentionally vs. Reactively (00:09:28)Clarity Audit: The Foundation of Team Building (00:11:11)Assessing Team Members: Skills, Intentionality, and Culture (00:12:54)The Importance of the A Team, Not Just the A Person (00:17:50)Backstage vs. Front Stage: Operational Excellence (00:18:47)Discernment in Choosing Service Providers & Systems (00:20:11)The Cost of the Wrong Choices & Value of Expertise (00:21:48)Mitigating Risk Through the Right People and Systems (00:26:08)Contracts, Safety, and the Danger of Complacency (00:28:50)Learning from Mistakes & the Last 10% (00:30:39)Growth Mindset in Family Offices (00:32:45)Growth = Mindset + Energy (00:32:58)Building Foundations for Multigenerational Success (00:36:47)The Challenge of Sustaining Wealth Across Generations (00:38:39)Efficiency and Internal Organization (00:40:47)Solid Foundations Enable Strategic Progress (00:41:12)Closing Thoughts: Judgment, Clarity, and Integration (00:44:32)

In this episode of the Family Office Success podcast, host Christi shares a conversation from the Exceptional Advisory Podcast with Chris Seeger. They discuss the intricacies and importance of family offices, touching on how they support high-level family enterprises in wealth management, business operations, and legacy preservation. Christi recounts her journey of founding White River Consultants, the initial hurdles, significant moments, and the pivotal decisions that led to its creation. The episode also covers practical advice for entrepreneurs, the need for clarity in family office operations, and how the right structure and integration can lead to generational success. Whether considering succession, evaluating business potential, or just curious about family office dynamics, this episode offers valuable insights and real-world applications.00:00 Introduction to the Family Office Success Podcast00:57 Introducing Christie Van Wright and White River Consultants03:55 The Pivotal Moments that Shaped White River Consultants08:44 Navigating COVID and Embracing Remote Work13:19 Understanding Family Offices and Their Importance16:43 Building a Healthy Family Office and Enterprise19:53 The Role of EOS in Family Offices21:10 Successful Client Stories and Transitions27:21 Preparing the Next Generation for Leadership33:50 Advice for Entrepreneurs and Closing Thoughtshttps://excoadvisors.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-seegers-8a30161a/

In this episode of the Family Office Success podcast, Christi engages in an insightful conversation with Brian Adams from Mac International about the challenges and nuances of talent acquisition within the family office sector. Brian shares his journey into the family office industry, the role of Mac International in executive searches for single family offices, and the unique aspects of hiring for family offices compared to corporate environments. Key discussion points include the importance of finding the right cultural fit, the high competitiveness for executive talent, managing expectations around role responsibilities and compensation, and the evolving trends towards professionalization and institutionalization in family offices. The conversation also touches on the strategic considerations of insourcing versus outsourcing services and the critical need for a well-rounded, proactive C-suite executive in family offices.01:57 Meet Brian Adams: Background and Journey02:55 Mac International: Services and Expertise05:09 Challenges in Family Office Hiring08:21 Professionalization and Outsourcing Trends15:47 The Role of the COO/CFO in Family Offices24:19 Compensation Expectations for Family Office Executives29:21 Conclusion and Contact InformationBrian Adams is with MACK Internationalhttps://www.mackinternational.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-c-adams/

In this episode of the Family Office Success Podcast, host Christi Van Rite interviews Wes Van Rite, a leading expert in building science and commissioning for high-end residential estates. They discuss the essential role of commissioning in ensuring luxury homes meet owners’ expectations for comfort, efficiency, and performance. Wes explains how proactive collaboration among general contractors, owner’s representatives, and commissioning agents prevents costly issues and enhances long-term value. Listeners gain practical insights into managing complex construction projects, the importance of clear communication, and why commissioning is vital for ultra-high-net-worth families building or renovating large estates.Engineered Projects Consultinghttps://www.engdproj.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/wesley-van-rite-epc/

In this episode of the Family Office Success Podcast, host Christi Van Rite interviews Wes Van Rite, a leading expert in building science and commissioning for high-end residential homes. They discuss the essential role of commissioning in ensuring luxury homes meet owners’ expectations for comfort, efficiency, and performance. Wes explains how proactive collaboration among general contractors, owner’s representatives, and commissioning agents prevents costly issues and enhances long-term value. Listeners gain practical insights into managing complex construction projects, the importance of clear communication, and why commissioning is vital for ultra-high-net-worth families building or renovating large estates.

In this episode of the Family Office Success Podcast, host Christi Van Rite welcomes Jeff Lambert of LHT Consulting Group to discuss the vital yet often overlooked topic of funeral planning for high-net-worth families. Drawing on decades of experience, Jeff shares best practices for proactive, personalized memorial planning, highlights the benefits of expert coordination, and offers practical strategies for family offices to navigate sensitive end-of-life conversations. The episode underscores how thoughtful planning eases emotional burdens, honors individual legacies, and ensures seamless execution for families with significant public profiles.