the declarations. podcast with Host Todd S. Rich

In our most recent episode of declarations. and the first episode recorded in front of a live audience, Host Todd S. Rich is joined at the NY Historical by David M. Rubenstein,  Co-Founder and Co-Chairman of The Carlyle Group and Owner of the Baltimore Orioles, to explore the enduring legacy of the Declaration of Independence and its relevance today. David breaks down the document’s origins, its most influential passage, and the historical context that shaped its meaning. The conversation moves beyond history into the importance of preserving foundational documents, the lessons of the American Revolution, and how those ideals translate into modern investing and leadership. Throughout, David reflects on legacy, philanthropy, and the role individuals play in shaping society over time.They discuss:Why a single sentence in the Declaration became one of the most influential ideas in historyHow the document evolved from a political explanation into a global symbol of equalityThe role of historical preservation in shaping understanding and decision-makingLessons from the American Revolution that still apply to democracy and governance todayHow investing, persistence, and long-term thinking can positively impact society Declaration Partners -  https://www.declarationpartners.com/Todd on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-s-rich-6a091333/David on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-m-rubenstein/declarations. podcast on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-declarations-podcastDeclaration Partners on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/declaration-partnersNY Historical: https://www.nyhistory.org/Topics:(00:00:00) - Intro(00:00:50) - Why the Declaration endures(00:03:42) – A Famous Sentence(00:05:14) - Explanation of July 2nd vs July 4th (00:09:00) - Patriotic Philanthropy(00:16:33) – Lessons from the Revolution(00:25:31) - Legacy and the pursuit of happiness(00:29:09) – Final disclosures

Todd Rich sits down with Ian Ross, Founder & Managing Principal of SomeraRoad, to explore the mindset and strategy behind building a modern real estate platform rooted in opportunistic investing. Ian shares his “declaration” for SomeraRoad, emphasizing entrepreneurial grit, disciplined execution, and a commitment to continuous learning. The conversation traces his journey from early exposure to real estate and finance through the GFC, to founding his firm and scaling it across multiple verticals. Along the way, Ian explains how identifying dislocation, leaning into complexity, and staying relentlessly curious have shaped both his investment philosophy and company culture. They discuss:→ Growing up in LA and learning the hustle early→ Navigating the 2008 financial crisis on the CMBS desk at Morgan Stanley and later at Jefferies→ Finding the arbitrage others missed at Triangle Capital Group→ How SomeraRoad evolved from distressed debt into development, net lease industrial, and aviation infrastructure→ The opportunities arising from the “One Big Beautiful Bill” SomeraRoad - https://someraroadinc.com/Ian on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianrosssomera/Todd S. Rich on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-s-rich-6a091333/Declaration Partners - https://www.declarationpartners.com/ Topics:(00:00:00) - Intro(00:02:10) - Ian’s Declaration(00:03:22) - Entrepreneurial grit(00:04:06) - Childhood and Early Influences(00:07:11) - Wall Street(00:16:17) - Starting SomeraRoad(00:19:40) - Investment philosophy(00:22:24) - Debt meets development(00:26:48) - Nashville & New York City(00:29:40) - Verticals(00:32:09) – SR Aviation(00:34:08) - Bonus depreciation(00:42:57) - Ian’s vision for the next decade(00:44:43) - Family and balance(00:45:27) – Closing questions

Host Todd S. Rich speaks with Paul Carbone, Co-founder & President of Pritzker Alternative Strategies and Co-founder & Vice Chairman of Pritzker Private Capital, to discuss his career in investing, the development of family capital platforms, and the role of flexibility in long-term ownership. Paul discusses his professional journey, perspectives on private markets, succession planning, family office collaboration, and the influence of personal experience on leadership and civic engagement.Topics:(00:00:00) - Intro(00:02:05) - Paul’s personal declaration: family and inspiration(00:04:37) - Paul’s early life and career beginnings(00:08:21) - Transition to investment banking(00:11:49) - From investment banking to principal investing(00:15:04) - The appeal of family capital(00:23:08) - Building Pritzker Private Capital(00:28:37) - Navigating competitive dynamics with long duration capital(00:30:03) - The misconception of patient capital(00:31:27) - Balancing family capital in competitive markets(00:33:31) - Transitioning leadership and succession planning(00:35:59) - Launching Pritzker Alternative Strategies(00:37:52) - Investing in managers and funds(00:40:27) - Opportunities in private equity and alternative markets(00:44:31) - The role of family offices and networks(00:51:25) - Civic engagement and philanthropy(00:55:31) - Closing thoughts and reflections Host Todd S. Rich LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-s-rich-6a091333/Paul Carbone LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-carbone-82a1237/declarations. podcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-declarations-podcast Declaration Partners Website: https://www.declarationpartners.com/The Road to Serfdom by F.A. Hayek: https://a.co/d/0cgrhvhq 

In this episode of declarations., Host Todd S. Rich sits down with Ray Ritchey, Senior Executive Vice President at Boston Properties, for a wide-ranging conversation reflecting on career, leadership, and gratitude. Ray shares the principles that have guided his professional life, from his early years shaped by family and the Naval Academy to decades building and stewarding long term relationships in real estate. The conversation explores how discipline, patience, and values carried from military service translated into business success, as well as the importance of mentorship and reputation over time. Ray also reflects on legacy, philanthropy, and why staying engaged and purposeful matters at every stage of life.They discuss: • Ray’s declaration of gratitude and how it shaped his personal and professional decisions • Lessons from the Naval Academy and how military discipline influenced leadership in business • The difference between brokerage and ownership and why long term partnerships matter • Building a career by playing the long game and consistently investing in personal reputation • Giving back through mentorship and philanthropy, including the impact of the SED CenterLinks:Declaration Partners - https://www.declarationpartners.com/Todd S. Rich on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-s-rich-6a091333/Boston Properties - https://www.bxp.com/Topics:(00:00:00) - Intro(00:02:56) - Ray's early life and influences(00:05:40) - Journey to the Naval Academy(00:10:16) - Transition to real estate(00:32:49) - Tenant preferences and new developments(00:35:18) - Challenges and strategies in real estate investment(00:45:16) - Washington DC real estate market(00:51:06) - Personal insights and career advice(00:54:00) - Philanthropy and community impact(00:58:40) - Looking ahead: legacy and future goals(01:00:41) - Closing thoughts and reflections

Todd Rich sits down with Bill Woodson, Co-Head & Managing Director of Cynosure Wealth Advisors for a thoughtful conversation on the purpose behind wealth, the evolution of family offices, and the personal experiences that shaped Bill’s worldview. Bill reflects on a childhood shaped by constant relocation, the discipline he built working through college, and an early career that moved unexpectedly from investment management to public accounting and eventually into the family office ecosystem. Throughout the discussion, he offers insight into the complexities wealthy families face, why coordination and governance can be as important as investment considerations for many families, and how trust and communication form the core of constructive advisory relationships. He also shares the motivation behind his book on family offices and the educational initiatives he is helping build to professionalize the field.They discuss: • How early life experiences and working through college shaped Bill’s discipline and confidence • Lessons from public accounting that informed his transition into family office leadership • The core challenges wealthy families face and why coordination across advisors is often missing • The interpersonal and governance dynamics that define successful family office environments • Bill’s purpose-driven work developing educational programs and contributing to broader societal impact through family officesLinks:Podcast Website: https://www.declarationpartners.com/podcast/Host Todd S. Rich on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-s-rich-6a091333/Declaration Partners - https://www.declarationpartners.com/The Family Office by William I. Woodson & Edward V. Marshall: https://a.co/d/bf9HBEVWho Moved My Cheese? By Spencer Johnson: https://a.co/d/6YUR0uv00:00 – Introduction03:00 – Early Life, UC Irvine, and Entering the Investment World09:15 – Lessons from Public Accounting and Working with Founders12:30 – Silicon Valley and Building a Multifamily Office15:00 – Entering Private Banking at Merrill Lynch18:45 – Trust, Delegation, and Personality Dynamics20:30 – The Societal Good of Family Offices23:00 – Writing The Family Office 27:30 – Best Practices and Governance Across Generations 29:30 – The EQ Requirements of Family Office Leaders33:00 – Choosing Between MFOs, SFOs, and RIAs34:20 – Behavioral Patterns Among New Wealth vs. Multigenerational Wealth36:00 – Joining Cynosure Wealth Advisors41:30 – Investment Philosophy and Alternatives45:00 – The Great Wealth Transfer & Philanthropy Trends47:30 – Building Academic Programs at Stanford and Chicago Booth49:30 – The Origin and Impact of First Graduate52:30 – Closing Questions

Jimmy Weil joins Host Todd S. Rich on declarations. for a wide-ranging conversation about his upbringing in the Bronx, the lessons he learned on the streets and basketball courts, and the decades he spent building, scaling, and ultimately selling a national paint and coatings company. Jimmy reflects on inheriting a struggling family business, transforming it through niche products and strategic acquisitions, and navigating both near-failure moments and breakout wins. He also shares why he continued building and investing after selling to Benjamin Moore, how he evaluates entrepreneurs today, and why relationships, humor, and resilience have shaped every chapter of his life.They discuss: • Growing up with limited resources, early independence, and learning to read people • Building Insl-x by focusing on specialty coatings and smart acquisitions • The challenges and breakthroughs of scaling into a national manufacturer • Selling the business to Benjamin Moore and deciding not to stay on • Active ownership in gas stations, convenience stores, insurance, and cyber businesses • How street smarts, teamwork, and persistence have guided his decisions • The role of humor, philanthropy, and family throughout his careerLinks:Podcast Website: https://www.declarationpartners.com/podcast/Host Todd S. Rich on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-s-rich-6a091333/Declaration Partners - https://www.declarationpartners.com/David & Goliath by Malcolm Gladwell: https://a.co/d/e3naSyiTopics:(00:00:00) - Intro(00:02:57) - Jimmy's early life and family background(00:05:24) - Lessons from the streets and basketball(00:09:12) - From law school to paint business(00:12:19) - Scaling challenges and innovations(00:25:38) - Reflecting on the decision to leave Berkshire Hathaway(00:27:10) - Venturing into gas stations and convenience stores(00:30:40) - Investing in insurance and other diverse businesses(00:33:40) - Lessons from the streets of the Bronx(00:41:42) - The importance of humor and relationships in business(00:43:39) - Philanthropy and giving back(00:45:49) - Balancing work, family, and mentorship(00:47:07) - Closing thoughts and advice for entrepreneurs(00:50:45) - Podcast disclaimer and legal information 

In this episode of declarations., Host Todd Rich sits down with Michael Spies, Founder of Fuse Strategies, to explore a lifetime of insight at the intersection of global real estate, urban development, and innovation. Michael reflects on his early experiences growing up as the child of immigrants, his time in public service in New York City, and his 30-year career at Tishman Speyer leading global expansion and innovation. The conversation traces his journey from city planning to venture investing, offering lessons on leadership, human capital, and the evolving relationship between the built environment and technology.We discuss: • Lessons from Berlin and the challenges of real estate cycles • How good development aligns private value with the public good • The evolution of the office sector and rise of short-term, mixed-use spaces • The growing role of AI and data in construction and asset management • Why human capital, curiosity, and creativity remain the ultimate differentiatorsLinks:Michael on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-spies-482810149/Todd S. Rich on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-s-rich-6a091333/Declaration Partners - https://www.declarationpartners.com/ Topics:(00:00:00) - Intro(00:00:59) - Introducing Michael Spies(00:03:08) - Michael's declaration(00:04:35) - Early life and influences(00:16:38) - Lessons from Berlin(00:18:00) - Leadership principles(00:23:09) - Mixed-use development(00:26:58) - Innovations in office space(00:29:02) - The shift to short-term leases(00:30:15) - Innovative amenities in office spaces(00:31:40) - Challenges and changes in the office sector(00:33:52) - Transition to venture technology and innovation(00:35:55) - Mentoring entrepreneurs and evaluating talent(00:39:40) - Impact of AI on real estate(00:42:17) - Innovative construction and development(00:45:26) - Integrating art in development projects(00:50:45) - Personal reflections and advice(00:52:05) - Closing thoughts and acknowledgements 

In this episode of declarations., Todd Rich is joined by Francisco Alvarez-Demalde, co-founder and managing partner of Riverwood Capital.  Francisco shares how his upbringing in Argentina shaped his entrepreneurial spirit, how he defines success as the constant pursuit of building, learning, and creating opportunity for others and how he and his partners built a global growth equity platform focused on scaling technology businesses. Their discussion also covers lessons from cycles in the private equity and tech markets, the importance of combining vision with execution, and the role of education and philanthropy in creating lasting impact. They discuss:Francisco’s declaration to make a positive impact on othersLessons from growing up in Argentina and early exposure to tech startupsFounding Riverwood Capital and building a differentiated growth equity modelPartnering with management teams to scale businesses sustainablyInsights on global markets, including opportunities and challenges in Latin America Links:Francisco on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/franciscoalvarezdemalde/Todd S. Rich on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-s-rich-6a091333/Declaration Partners - https://www.declarationpartners.com/Riverwood Capital - https://www.riverwoodcapital.com/Amp It Up by Frank Slootman - https://a.co/d/8jpo3h6 Topics:(00:00:00) - Intro (00:03:11) - Francisco's declaration and values (00:04:35) - Early life and education in Argentina (00:07:43) - Career beginnings and move to the US (00:12:55) - Founding Riverwood Capital (00:17:26) - Investment philosophy and market dynamics (00:29:41) - Growth and scalability in tech investments (00:32:23) - Building a global company (00:33:08) - The importance of exits in private equity (00:33:46) - Investing, building, and monetizing (00:34:31) - Partnering with management teams (00:37:00) - Balancing ambition and execution (00:40:09) - Global tech opportunities (00:43:12) - Navigating emerging markets (00:45:38) - Argentina's economic outlook (00:51:34) - Personal insights and philanthropy (00:56:40) - Closing thoughts and reflections

In this episode of declarations., Host Todd S. Rich sits down with Jack Dwyer, CEO of Capital Funding Bancorp, Inc. and CFG Bank, to explore his journey from accountant to founder of Capital Funding Group and owner of CFG Bank. Jack shares how his early years in New Jersey, family values, and a passion for entrepreneurship shaped his approach to business and leadership. The conversation covers the evolution of his one-stop shop model for healthcare financing, his strategic expansion into banking, and how he navigated challenges like the financial crisis and COVID-19. Jack also discusses his commitment to Baltimore’s community and his innovative philanthropic efforts through the Jack and Nancy Dwyer Workforce Development Center, aimed at solving systemic poverty and creating healthcare jobs.They discuss:How Jack transitioned from accounting into healthcare lending and entrepreneurshipThe creation and growth of Capital Funding Group and its integrated financing modelStrategic decisions behind acquiring and scaling CFG BankNavigating healthcare and real estate finance through economic downturns and the pandemicPhilanthropic initiatives focused on workforce development and community revitalizationThis episode offers valuable insights for entrepreneurs, investors, and community leaders looking to build impactful businesses while giving back.Links:Declaration Partners: https://www.declarationpartners.com/Todd Rich on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-s-rich-6a091333/Capital Funding Group: https://www.capfundinc.com/Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara: https://a.co/d/3MYh3pqTopics:(00:00:00) - Intro (00:03:44) - Jack's early life and career beginnings (00:09:11) - The birth of Capital Funding Group (00:10:34) - Navigating the real estate recession (00:14:05) - Understanding HUD-insured mortgages (00:18:38) - Building a one-stop shop for healthcare financing (00:23:07) - Acquiring CFG Bank during the financial crisis (00:28:46) - Founding principles and family values (00:30:38) - Navigating the healthcare sector during COVID-19 (00:34:06) - Innovative financial strategies during the pandemic (00:36:51) - Current landscape and future goals (00:42:06) - Advice for entrepreneurs (00:45:16) - Community and philanthropy efforts (00:47:45) - Workforce development and personal fulfillment (00:53:12) - Closing thoughts and reflections

In this episode of declarations., Host Todd S. Rich sits down with Fred Klein for a deeply personal and wide-ranging conversation about law, legacy, and leadership. Fred reflects on a distinguished legal career shaped by meaningful mentorship, rigorous standards, and his enduring commitment to human connection. From his early influences at Mercersburg Academy to his pivotal role in Washington D.C.'s real estate legal landscape, Fred shares stories that illuminate how relationships, empathy, and trust have defined his approach to law and life. The episode also explores Fred’s reflections on artificial intelligence, his passion for teaching, and the values that guide his ongoing work in philanthropy and education.They discuss:Why Fred’s guiding principle is to make all human interactions meaningfulHis formative experiences at Mercersburg Academy and how they shaped his identityThe unlikely moment that launched his real estate law careerHow he builds enduring client relationships across private equity, family offices, and public companiesWhy AI and data transparency are opportunities—not threats—to the legal industryHis belief that reputation, handwritten notes, and generosity still matter in a tech-driven worldHow he’s approaching his “non-retirement” through teaching, board work, and community serviceA thoughtful listen for anyone interested in leadership, mentorship, and the human side of high-stakes law and investing.Links:Declaration Partners - https://www.declarationpartners.com/podcastBe a Work in Progress: And Other Things I'd Like to Tell My Younger Self by John Cena: https://a.co/d/hgvUqkdFrom Strength to Strength: Finding Success, Happiness, and Deep Purpose in the Second Half of Life by Arthur C. Brooks: https://a.co/d/dDKWZAFThe Happiness Advantage: How a Positive Brain Fuels Success in Work and Life by Shawn Achor: https://a.co/d/5RK6q61 (00:00:00) - Intro (00:02:26) - Fred's declaration: Making human interactions meaningful (00:05:49) - Fred's early life and education (00:08:51) - Journey into law and real estate (00:17:49) - Partnerships and career growth (00:21:12) - Diverse clientele and tailored advice (00:23:31) - Investor expectations and risk management (00:25:38) - Adapting to real estate market changes (00:26:14) - The role of artificial intelligence in real estate (00:29:31) - The importance of relationships in business (00:32:32) - Expressing gratitude and personal growth (00:37:22) - Philanthropy and future plans (00:41:40) - Books and advice for personal development (00:45:09) - Closing remarks and disclaimers

In this episode of Declarations, host Todd Rich sits down with Dan Mueller and Les Baquiran, co-founders of Alpine Capital Advisors, to explore their unique paths from immigrant family upbringings to building a global placement and advisory firm. Dan and Les share how personal values like humility, resourcefulness, and long-term thinking have shaped Alpine’s cross-border business model. The conversation dives deep into the nuances of fundraising across geographies, the shifting behaviors of institutional and family office investors, and how Alpine distinguishes itself by building ecosystems of trust, intelligence, and connectivity—not just transactions. From the early days in Chile and New York to current insights on global capital flows, Dan and Les provide a thoughtful look at investing in today’s complex landscape.They discuss:How their immigrant roots and early career experiences influenced Alpine’s scrappy, globally-minded DNAWhy Latin American investors are increasingly allocating capital to developed markets, especially in the U.S.The shift from transactional capital raising to long-term ecosystem building through dynamic intelligence and trusted networksWhat’s changing for allocators globally—including signs of renewed interest in Asia, Europe, and non-traditional strategiesAdvice for managers on navigating long fundraising cycles and earning trust in a crowded, competitive marketThis is an insightful episode for anyone navigating the evolving intersection of global capital, private markets, and long-term relationship building.Links:Alpine Capital Advisors - https://alpineca.com/Dan Mueller on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/damueller1/Les Baquiran on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/les-baquiran-0442373/Declaration Partners - https://www.declarationpartners.com/Shoe Dog by Phil Knight - https://a.co/d/3Qhxrq5Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell - https://a.co/d/6ME3K4JTopics:(00:00:00) - Intro(00:02:04) - Foundations and mission of Alpine Capital Advisors(00:03:16) - Personal declarations and backgrounds(00:03:45) - Immigrant experiences and early influences(00:07:23) - Career beginnings and financial crises(00:09:34) - Journey into investment and finance(00:15:55) - Founding Alpine Capital Advisors(00:17:37) - Navigating Latin American markets(00:20:03) - Building trust and unique ecosystems(00:26:41) - Challenges and strategies in fundraising(00:29:43) - Navigating the new investment landscape(00:30:45) - Global evolution of investment trends(00:32:56) - Shifting investor sentiments in Asia and Europe(00:34:54) - Family offices vs. institutional investors(00:37:14) - Current investment strategies and market shifts(00:46:49) - Challenges and advice for new managers(00:50:44) - Extracurricular activities and personal insights(00:53:48) - Closing thoughts and reflections

In this episode of the declarations. podcast, Host Todd S. Rich welcomes Michael Glosserman, longtime real estate executive, member of Declaration's Real Estate Advisory Board and Trustee of JBG Smith, for a wide-ranging conversation about career evolution, institutional alignment, and the long-term view required to build something enduring.From growing up in a small Texas town to co-leading one of the most prominent real estate firms in Washington, DC, Michael shares pivotal lessons from his 28 years at JBG, his early influences at The Rouse Company, and the many market cycles he’s weathered across five decades in real estate. He reflects on how capital structures, team development, and investor relationships shaped JBG’s growth—from individual deal-making to discretionary funds, and eventually to the public markets through JBG Smith.They also discuss:The impact of long-term partnerships and alignment with investorsHow JBG navigated downturns, scaled its team, and transitioned to a public REITThe firm’s role in urban developmentLessons from working closely with top-tier institutional capitalThoughts on the current challenges facing the DC marketWhy investing in high-growth, business-friendly markets may hold more opportunity todayHis personal philosophy on family, giving back, and living in the momentThis episode offers hard-won insight from a leader who helped shape a major firm and now brings the clarity of hindsight to what it means to grow thoughtfully, lead with humility, and stay present through it all.Links:Todd S. Rich on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-s-rich-6a091333/Declaration Partners LP - https://www.declarationpartners.com/Too Soon Old, Too Late Smart: https://a.co/d/awax8tSTopics:(00:00:00) - Intro  (00:01:24) - Introducing Michael Glosserman (00:04:18) - Michael's Early Life in Lockhart, Texas  (00:09:02) - From Texas to Wharton: Michael's Educational Journey  (00:13:08) - Michael’s early career (00:20:21) - Joining JBG(00:27:28) - Securing Yale as an Investor  (00:28:46) - Lessons from Yale's Investment Approach  (00:31:25) - JBG's Growth and Transition to Public Company  (00:32:31) - Navigating the 2008 Financial Crisis  (00:34:50) - Challenges and Strategies in Real Estate Investment  (00:40:07) - Reflections on Washington DC's Real Estate Market  (00:50:13) - Family and Philanthropy  (00:53:40) - Closing Thoughts and Advice  

In this episode of declarations., host Todd S. Rich sits down with Sean Plummer, founder of Haystack Capital Partners, for a thoughtful conversation on how high-net-worth families invest differently from institutions—and why that difference matters. With deep experience from his time at Fidelity Family Office Services and now as a trusted advisor to over 160 family offices, Sean shares how he's built a business around relationships, alignment, and thoughtful capital allocation.Sean reflects on how his small-town upbringing in Davis, California, shaped his worldview, and how a desire to listen and learn from everyone—regardless of background—has guided his career. The conversation explores the evolution of family office investing, the rise of direct deals, and how Haystack connects families with unique opportunities that align with their expertise and values.Topics include:The key differences between family offices and institutional investorsWhy alignment, trust, and EQ are more important than IRR in the family office worldHow Haystack helps match capital with operating families and niche fund managersThe impact of generational transitions and how G2 is reshaping the future of wealthWhy the next frontier in family capital may lie in deeper networks, shared values, and long-term partnershipsThis episode offers a rare inside look at how some of the world’s wealthiest families think about investing—not just for returns, but for relationships, legacy, and long-term impact.Links:Learn more about Declaration. hereSetting the Table by Danny MeyerTopics:(00:00:00) - Intro  (00:02:38) - Sean’s Declaration  (00:03:37) - Sean’s upbringing and early career  (00:10:46) - Transitioning into family office services  (00:15:51) - Forming Haystack  (00:20:40) - Investing with families vs. Institutions  (00:24:48) - Learnings from working with Family Offices  (00:26:58) - Characteristics families seek when making an investment or selecting a fund manager, and investing themes  (00:35:10) - What are families investing in today?  (00:37:39) - Cultivating and maintaining family office relationships  (00:44:28) - Trends to watch for over the next decade  (00:48:13) - Trends that emerge in the transfer of power within families  (00:50:33) - Philanthropy  (00:51:42) - Influential books  (00:53:29) - Most meaningful advice  (00:54:49) - How Sean pursues happiness  

In this episode of Declarations, host Todd S. Rich sits down with Jon Qvistgaard=Peterson, a seasoned entrepreneur and investor with deep roots in oil and gas, private equity, and automotive retail. From his family’s pioneering ventures in the energy sector to building Louisiana’s largest Honda dealership, Jon shares the philosophies that have guided his career and personal life.The conversation explores:Lessons in leadership and resilience from his grandfather, a Danish immigrant who founded Blue Plate FoodsNavigating risk in oil and gas exploration and how the industry has evolvedBuilding a business in automotive retail and the contrast between the energy and car industriesThe importance of teamwork and long-term thinking in both business and lifeHis deep commitment to philanthropy, including his family’s contributions to children’s healthcare in LouisianaJon also reflects on his personal mantra—"You must participate in life"—emphasizing the value of curiosity, engagement, and giving back. Whether you’re interested in investing, business operations, or simply learning from a life well-lived, this episode is filled with wisdom from an operator who has truly seen it all.Links:Learn more about Declaration. hereThe Old Man and the Sea by Ernest HemingwayEndurance: Shackelton's Incredible Voyage by Alfred LansingJeff Shaara BooksTopics:(00:00:00) - Intro(00:02:36) - Jon’s Declaration(00:03:25) - The Q=Petersen Family history(00:08:06) - Jon’s career in Oil & Gas and Auto(00:19:56) - How to pull your weight in the American Economy(00:22:32) - Participate in Life(00:25:30) - The difference between investors and operators(00:27:42) - Operating a business as a family steward(00:30:07) - Jon’s philanthropy(00:32:50) - Influential books(00:33:51) - The best advice Jon’s received(00:34:51) - Jon’s pursuit of happiness

In this episode of declarations., Todd S. Rich sits down with Marco Peschiera, CEO of Grupo Romero Investment Office (GRIO) and its asset management arm GRAM. Marco traces his journey from childhood on a Peruvian farm to leading global investment teams at Citigroup and Carlyle, where he helped build Carlyle’s Latin America buyout business. He shares lessons from navigating crises in emerging markets, investing in iconic assets like the Inca Rail to Machu Picchu, and now guiding Grupo Romero’s fifth generation toward long-term, resilient investing. They discuss:·         Marco’s early Life in Peru growing up on a farm teaching him lessons in humility and simplicity·         Hiring people better than yourself and teaching resilience·         Building Carlyle’s Latin America buyout fund with guidance from mentor Bill Conway·         Transforming Grupo Romero into a modern investment platform·         Supporting education and crisis relief through Fundacion Romero·         Reflections on resilience, humility, and family as the true sources of success Links:The declarations. podcast: https://www.declarationpartners.com/podcastTodd S. Rich on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-s-rich-6a091333/Declaration Partners - https://www.declarationpartners.com/𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑊𝑎𝑟𝑟𝑒𝑛 𝐵𝑢𝑓𝑓𝑒𝑡𝑡 𝑊𝑎𝑦 by Robert G. Hagstrom: https://a.co/d/a7ziNx5

In this episode of Declarations, Todd Rich sits down with Kari Firestone, Co-Founder & Chair Emerita of Aureus Asset Management.   Kari shares her remarkable journey — from a childhood stock-picking contest in Boston to working with legendary investor Peter Lynch at Fidelity and ultimately building her own firm. She reflects on lessons in risk-taking, balancing career and family, and why listening and learning remain central to her “declaration” in life.  The conversation also touches on her book Even the Odds, her community and philanthropic involvement in Boston, and her upcoming transition as she steps back from Aureus to embrace new pursuits, family time, and personal passions. They discuss:·         From 5th-grade stock contests to a part-time job at Merrill Lynch, Kari discovered investing young·         Working under Peter Lynch at Fidelity and learning the art of deep research and spotting unrecognized value·         Founding Aureus with David Scudder and pioneering private markets for families·         Patience in 2008–09 created opportunities; today’s market challenges are more about recalibration than systemic collapse·         Deep commitment to education, healthcare, and Boston institutions that shaped her life Links:The declarations. podcast: https://www.declarationpartners.com/podcastTodd S. Rich on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-s-rich-6a091333/Declaration Partners - https://www.declarationpartners.com/𝘌𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘖𝘥𝘥𝘴: 𝘚𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘙𝘪𝘴𝘬–𝘛𝘢𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘯 𝘉𝘶𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴, 𝘐𝘯𝘷𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘓𝘪𝘧𝘦 by Karen Firestone: https://a.co/d/9WcZ9V7 𝘓𝘶𝘴𝘩 𝘓𝘪𝘧𝘦 by Richard Price: https://a.co/d/6qtx57j

In this episode of declarations., Host Todd S. Rich speaks with Robert Picard, Head of Alternative Investments at Hightower Advisors.  Robert shares his remarkable journey — from his multicultural upbringing and Swiss military service as a tank commander, to a career spanning derivatives trading, hedge fund selection, and leadership in private markets. He offers candid lessons from avoiding the Bernie Madoff fraud, launching alternative platforms at top firms, and why he believes investors should follow the lead of billionaires and endowments by allocating significantly more to private market investments.  The conversation also touches on Robert’s leadership philosophy (the “six C’s”), his philanthropy in support of autism causes, and his personal passions — from Springsteen concerts at the Jersey Shore to long walks by the ocean. They discuss:·         Moving between New York and Switzerland, learning resilience from culture shock ·         Lessons in leadership and discipline as a Swiss tank commander, and the enduring “three C’s” framework for command and control·         How technology and new structures are opening private markets to accredited investors·         Evolving from strict “command and control” to a more mindful, empathetic leadership style·         Passion for autism charities like Autism Speaks and Hand in Hand, and deep ties to the Jersey Shore community Links:The declarations. podcast: https://www.declarationpartners.com/podcastTodd S. Rich on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-s-rich-6a091333/Declaration Partners - https://www.declarationpartners.com/The Visit by Friedrich Durrenmatt - https://a.co/d/2WiQgpWThe Lexus and the Olive Tree by Thomas L. Friedman - https://a.co/d/6xB7uu0 

In this episode of declarations., Todd S. Rich welcomes Dave Roux, co-Founder and Executive Chairman of BayPine.    Dave is a pioneering technology investor, serial entrepreneur, and philanthropist. Dave is best known as the Co-Founder of Silver Lake, the first large-scale private equity firm focused exclusively on technology, which today manages over $100 billion. More recently, he co-founded BayPine, a private equity firm dedicated to transforming traditional economy companies through digital innovation. Dave’s career has been defined by a spirit of adventure, execution, and grit. Dave explains why digital transformation in legacy industries is the next frontier. The discussion also touches on Dave’s family office investing and his philanthropic leadership. They discuss:Why starting and building teams is central to Dave’s identityThe “Execution Edge”: Great ideas are common; the rare commodity is executionSilver Lake Origins: How a first-time fund raised $2.2B by winning support from Bill Gates, Michael Dell, and Gordon MooreSeminal Deal: The Seagate buyout that put Silver Lake on the mapPrivate Equity Evolution: Why today’s market requires hands-on value creation, not just leverageBayPine’s Vision: Helping analog businesses become digital leadersFamily Office Investing: Using a more balanced, income-oriented approach compared to high-octane PEPhilanthropy in Maine: Advancing biomedical research at Jackson Labs and launching the Roux Institute to drive digital and life sciences educationPersonal Passions: Celtics basketball, horses, modern art, music, and the outdoors Links:The declarations. podcast: https://www.declarationpartners.com/podcastTodd S. Rich on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-s-rich-6a091333/Declaration Partners - https://www.declarationpartners.com/The Odyssey by Homer - https://a.co/d/fIoQTCU Topics:(00:00:00) - Introduction & Dave’s “declaration”(00:05:00) - Childhood, family values, and a relentlessly positive mindset(00:09:00) - Discovering tech through econometrics and programming(00:12:00) - Early startups and lessons from Lotus & Oracle(00:16:00) - Founding Silver Lake and the opportunity in large-scale tech PE(00:30:00) - How private equity has evolved in 25 years(00:33:00) - BayPine’s mission: digital transformation for traditional companies(00:39:00) - Why Dave keeps building instead of retiring(00:40:00) - Celtics ownership and banner #18(00:43:00) - Family office investing strategy(00:49:00) - The Roux Institute: building an innovation hub in Maine(00:51:00) - Favorite book, best advice, and pursuit of happiness 

In this episode of declarations., Todd S. Rich sits down with Bennett Goodman, Executive Chairman of Hunter Point Capital and formerly of Blackstone/GSO.  Bennett shares his remarkable journey—from his formative years influenced by his uncle, the famed LSU baseball coach Skip Bertman, to his groundbreaking career in credit markets, and ultimately to building Hunter Point Capital and his family office, Hunter Creek.  The conversation explores Bennett’s guiding philosophy, the importance of humility on Wall Street, the lessons learned at Drexel and DLJ, his entrepreneurial spirit. He also reflects on family, philanthropy, and what drives him in the pursuit of happiness. They discuss:·         The Three H’s of Success: Hard work, Honesty, and Humility—lessons from Bennett’s uncle that shaped his career·         The founding of GSO Capital and its eventual sale to Blackstone·         Key insights from the 2008 financial crisis and navigating market dislocation·         How the Goodman family is addressing the wealth gap through education, job training, and financial literacy·         Bennett’s perspective on real estate opportunities, secular vs. cyclical risk, and today’s credit markets·         Reflections on family, balance, and happiness beyond career success Links:The declarations. podcast: https://www.declarationpartners.com/podcastTodd S. Rich on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-s-rich-6a091333/Declaration Partners - https://www.declarationpartners.com/ Topics:(00:00:00) - Introduction & Bennett’s career overview(00:04:00) - The “Three H’s” of success(00:07:00) - Drexel and early lessons in credit(00:15:00) - Building leveraged finance at DLJ(00:19:00) - Founding GSO Capital(00:22:00) - The Blackstone acquisition & financial crisis lessons(00:31:00) - Launching Hunter Point Capital(00:40:00) - Hunter Creek family office & philanthropy(00:48:00) - Advice, family values, and the pursuit of happiness

In the inaugural episode of the declarations. podcast, Todd S. Rich is joined by David M. Rubenstein, Co-Founder and Co-Chairman of the Carlyle Group and principal owner of the Baltimore Orioles. Mr. Rubenstein reflects on his career in private equity, his philosophy on partnership and legacy, and his broader pursuits as an author, interviewer, and owner of the Baltimore Orioles. Mr. Rubenstein shares insights from his investment career, the role of family offices, and the value of partnerships in business. He reflects on his personal philosophy, the lessons learned, and his commitment to philanthropy and community engagement. They discuss:·         The importance of history, context, and civic education·         Lessons on growth, resilience, and staying grounded despite global success·         Why he believes real estate remains a cornerstone of family investing·         Motivations for writing books and interviewing global leaders·         Why partnerships matter across business, philanthropy, and sports ownership·         Importance of literacy and lifelong learning Links:The declarations. podcast: https://www.declarationpartners.com/podcastTodd S. Rich on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-s-rich-6a091333/Declaration Partners - https://www.declarationpartners.com/ Topics:(00:00:00) - Introduction & the meaning of “pursuit of happiness”(00:02:15) – Why the Declaration of Independence matters today(00:06:00) – Founding principles of the U.S. and their modern relevance(00:10:15) – Rubenstein’s career beginnings, patriotic philanthropy(00:12:30) – Building The Carlyle Group (00:15:45) - The Role of Family Offices in Investment(00:19:45) - Real Estate Investing: A Stable Foundation(00:23:35) - The Importance of Partnerships in Business(00:27:40) - Lessons from Investment Misses(00:31:34) - The Role of Education and Voting in Democracy(00:35:18) - Personal Reflections and Life Philosophy