Year One in Review

This month marks one year of advising families as they shape the future of their philanthropy — and I’m grateful for what this first chapter held. Let me share some highlights.

Year One Highlights

• Helped families (and one family-held business) move $4,145,000 to 90 nonprofits

• Partnered with 5 families + 1 business (foundations with sizes ranging $15M–$30M)

• Led 9 family meetings

• Hosted 4 learning/networking events

• Completed my first philanthropic advising certification

• Held 300+ networking and business-development conversations with estate attorneys, wealth advisors, nonprofit leaders, and other peers in the high-net-worth (HNW) advisory space

What I Learned

• My personal politics rarely surface in this work — and when they do, thoughtful boundaries help.

• I enjoy the family dynamics and generational transitions as much as the strategy.

• Being called a “lion tamer” by a client was the most unexpectedly perfect compliment.

What I’m Seeing

Families — especially rising-gen leaders — are seeking clearer strategy, streamlined grantmaking, and more intentional governance. They want to honor legacy and evolve it.

Year Two Goals

• Work with 2–3 new families

• Explore my first hire

• Continue partnering with other advisors and attorneys who support families in transition or preparing the rising-gen for leadership

Let’s Reconnect

If we haven’t talked lately, I’d love to grab coffee or hop on Zoom. And if you’re curious about how I support families on a project or ongoing basis, my email inbox is open.

Here’s to year two — and to helping families give with clarity and purpose. And, of course, to taming more lions.