
The Intentional Investor #42: Dave Nadig
Nov 26, 2025
Dave Nadig, a veteran in the ETF industry, shares his inspiring journey from the world of live TV to founding successful businesses. He opens up about a life-changing climbing accident that reshaped his priorities and softened his perspective. From his 'no-lock kid' upbringing to insights on creativity and parenting, Dave emphasizes the importance of family and intentionality in life. He also explores the evolution of ETFs and his vision for fostering genuine conversations within the industry.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Live Trading Floor, TV Clash, And Legal Response
- Dave Nadig describes running a live-streaming trading floor and getting called a criminal on TV by Jim Cramer.
- He recounts hiring top defamation counsel and getting an on-air apology that ended the conflict.
No‑Lock Childhood And Finding A Tribe
- Dave grew up in Lenox, Massachusetts as a "no-lock kid" raised partly on a neighbor's farm and in his mother's costume shop.
- He read comics and sci-fi voraciously and found his tribe in college radio and sci‑fi clubs.
From Runner To Production Finance Lead
- At 21 Dave went from driving scripts in a Yugo to running payroll and signing checks on a live TV production.
- That rapid responsibility jump pushed him toward an MBA and a career in finance.

