The Mack Podcast

In this conversation, Brian Adams and Kate Bright discuss security, particularly focusing on the convergence of digital and physical security. Kate shares insights from her extensive experience in the family office sector and highlights the importance of proactive risk management strategies. The discussion emphasizes the need for emotional security as a critical component of overall risk resilience and the necessity of building comprehensive risk protocols. Kate also addresses the importance of supplier due diligence in the security industry, advocating for a human-centric approach to risk management.To learn more about Mack International, please visit www.mackinternational.com.

In this conversation, Brian Adams and Max Bevilacqua delve into the complexities of family systems and their implications for family offices. They explore the importance of understanding family dynamics, mapping relationships, and the role of triangulation in conflict resolution. The discussion emphasizes the need for effective communication, trust, and cultural fit within family offices, as well as the significance of measuring success beyond financial returns. Max shares insights on self-awareness, personal growth, and the challenges of navigating professional relationships in the context of family dynamics.To learn more about Mack International, please visit www.mackinternational.com.

Ray Denuncio, a partner at TOS, shares insights on family office technology from his two-decade experience. Sue McDermott, from Adapar, highlights the importance of tailored vendor evaluations and adapting to new tech. Mark Wersham discusses the balance between in-house staffing and outsourcing, especially regarding cybersecurity. They cover strategic roadmapping, the RFP process, and the significance of fostering stakeholder engagement. The conversation also emphasizes AI's impact and the need for good vendor relationships in enhancing operational efficiency.

This conversation focuses on the challenges of talent acquisition, the importance of culture fit, and the implications of the great wealth transfer. The panel discusses the dynamics of investment management, compensation structures, and the role of technology and cybersecurity in family offices. They emphasize the need for education and effective communication within families to navigate these complexities.This episode was recorded on May 19, 2025.To learn more about Mack International, please visit www.mackinternational.com.

In this conversation, Robert Gauntt shares his journey from a college baseball player to a seasoned investment professional. He discusses the evolution of the Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) industry, the importance of building a differentiated multi-family office, and the critical factors families should consider when choosing a multi-family office. He emphasizes the significance of leveraging expertise in alternative investments, navigating market volatility, and the lessons learned from institutional investing. He also highlights the vibrant investment landscape in Texas and the importance of risk management and rebalancing strategies in investment portfolios.To learn more about Mack International, please visit www.mackinternational.com.

In this conversation, Brian Adams and Joel Goschalk explore the differences between family offices in the US and the UK. They discuss the scale of operations, investment dynamics, cultural differences in networking, and the role of third-party services. Joel shares his experiences as an expat in the US, providing insights into the job market and offering advice for UK professionals considering a move to the States. The discussion highlights the unique characteristics of family offices in both regions and the evolving landscape of wealth management.To learn more about Mack International, please visit www.mackinternational.com.

This panel discussion delves into the role of general counsel within family offices, highlighting the shift from external legal counsel to in-house legal expertise. The guests discuss the cost-benefit analysis of hiring in-house versus external counsel, the importance of risk management, and the growing trend of direct investing among family offices. They also explore the challenges of co-investing with other families, regulatory concerns regarding privacy, and the necessity of crisis management in today's environment. The discussion emphasizes the need for emotional intelligence, adaptability, and strategic thinking in navigating the complexities of family office legal dynamics.This episode was recorded on May 16, 2025.To learn more about Mack International, please visit www.mackinternational.com.

In this conversation, Wendy Wecksell shares her journey into coaching and the importance of emotional intelligence (EQ) in wealth management, particularly within family offices. She discusses her personal experiences with wealth, the significance of relationships, and how emotional intelligence can unlock capital. Wendy emphasizes the need for strong communication skills and practical applications of EQ to navigate complex family dynamics, especially in ultra high net worth families. She also introduces her framework for building trust and legacy leadership in philanthropy, offering actionable insights for professionals in the field.To learn more about Mack International, please visit www.mackinternational.com.

In this conversation, Ben Stoddard discusses the evolving landscape of family offices and investment strategies, emphasizing the intersection of technology and investment management. He highlights the importance of creativity, risk management, and the need for a shared vocabulary within family offices. The discussion also covers the challenges of generational wealth, the role of AI in enhancing investment decisions, and best practices for navigating digital transformation. Stoddard shares insights from his extensive experience in the field, providing valuable takeaways for professionals in the industry.To learn more about Mack International, please visit www.mackinternational.com.

In this episode, Brian Adams hosts a follow-up discussion with three experts in the field of Chief of Staff roles within family offices. The conversation explores various pathways to becoming a Chief of Staff, the essential skills and experiences required for success, and the growing demand for these roles in today's complex business environment. The panelists share insights on work-life balance, managing expectations, and the importance of professional development and networking. They also discuss career trajectories for Chiefs of Staff and the future of this evolving role.This episode was recorded on May 5, 2025.To learn more about Mack International, please visit www.mackinternational.com.