Category: Financial Education

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Innovation, Discipline, and the Future of Private Markets with Christopher Zook (Ep. 7)

Innovation, Discipline, and the Future of Private Markets with Christopher Zook (Ep. 7)

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How do discipline, innovation, and access to opportunity shape the future of wealth?

In this episode of the G360 Wealth Podcast, Sam Diarbakerly sits down with Christopher Zook, Founder and Chairman of CAZ Investments. They discuss health as a foundation for leadership, democratizing access to private investments, and why innovation is critical for advisors and families today. 

Christopher also shares his approach to evaluating thousands of opportunities each year and the role of GP stakes in building resilient portfolios.

Christopher discusses:

  • Why personal discipline in health and routines strengthens decision-making in business and investing
  • The “20 billion in 20 years” goal at CAZ and how it aligns the firm and investors toward meaningful impact
  • The democratization of private investments and why access matters for more families today
  • The importance of innovation in alternatives, GP stakes, and thematic investing strategies
  • How families can teach the next generation about wealth through philanthropy, structured conversations, and real-life investment examples
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Sam Diarbakerly: 

Connect with Christopher Zook:

About Our Guest:

Christopher Zook is the Founder, Chairman, and Chief Investment Officer of CAZ Investments. He has more than 30 years of experience investing in both traditional and alternative asset classes. Christopher recently co-authored “The Holy Grail of Investing,” with Tony Robbins, which became a #1 New York Times Bestseller. Christopher was honored with the Texas Alternative Investments Association’s (TAIA) Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his contribution and sustained support of the industry in Texas. He is a regular contributor to major media outlets, including CNBC, Fox Business, and Bloomberg. Prior to starting CAZ Investments in 2001, Christopher served in senior leadership positions with Oppenheimer, Prudential Securities, Lehman Brothers, and Paine Webber.

Christopher is actively involved in public policy and frequently serves as a resource to state and local officials. In 2019, Christopher was appointed by the Governor to serve on the State of Texas Pension Review Board, where he chairs the Investment Committee. He also served two terms as a member of the Greater Houston Partnership’s Executive Committee and is a past President of the “C” Club of Houston.

Christopher is a graduate of Texas Tech University, where he was honored as a Distinguished Alumni. A lifelong Houstonian, he is a former Vice-Chairman of the Deacons and served for more than a decade on the Finance Committee at Second Baptist Church. He has held leadership positions on a variety of charitable boards, including his current role on the board of Elizabeth Ruth’s Home, an organization serving adults with autism. Christopher previously served as President of the Board of Trustees of Avondale House and President of The Children’s Fund. He is a proud father to Christopher, Jr. (and daughter-in-law, Cecelia Zook, grandson “Tripp” and granddaughter Madelyn) and husband to his high school sweetheart, Lisa.

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Charitable Giving with a Plan: Smarter Giving Strategies for Investors and Business Owners (Ep. 6)

Charitable Giving with a Plan: Smarter Giving Strategies for Investors and Business Owners (Ep. 6)

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Giving Smarter: Real Strategies for Tax-Efficient Philanthropy

If you’re donating cash to charity, you might be missing out on major tax benefits.

In this episode of the G360 Wealth Podcast, Sam Diarbakerly sits down with Kyle Casserino of Fidelity Charitable to talk about a smarter way to give: donor-advised funds. These accounts let you make a charitable contribution, get an immediate tax deduction, and give to your favorite nonprofits over time, all while avoiding capital gains on appreciated assets.

Kyle breaks down how donor-advised funds actually work, why cash isn’t always the best gift, and how to think about giving if you’re a business owner, crypto investor, or just want a simpler way to support the causes you care about.

What to expect:

  • How donor-advised funds give you flexibility and control
  • Why donating stock or private business shares might save you more
  • Tools that make giving as easy as sending money on your phone
  • A behind-the-scenes look at Fidelity’s Private Donor Group for larger gifts

This conversation is about giving with intention, and with less friction.

Resources:

Connect with Sam Diarbakerly:

Connect with Kyle Casserino:

About Our Guest:

Kyle Casserino is a Vice President and Planning Consultant at Fidelity Charitable. With more than a decade of experience, he helps advisors and donors use charitable tools to align their giving with their goals—whether it’s a one-time gift or a legacy plan.

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The Business Owner’s Edge: Smarter Retirement Planning with Jason Whitney (Ep. 5)

The Business Owner’s Edge: Smarter Retirement Planning with Jason Whitney (Ep. 5)

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Most business owners think of retirement plans as something their payroll provider sets up, and that’s where the missed opportunity begins.

In this episode, Sam Diarbakerly talks with Jason Whitney, President of Whitney Pension Associates, about what really goes into building a smart retirement plan and why it matters more than people realize. They walk through how business owners, consultants, and board members can use 401(k)s, profit sharing plans, and cash balance plans not just to save, but to reduce taxes in a big way.

From a family business origin story to six-figure savings examples, Jason explains what a TPA actually does and how the SECURE Act 2.0 is making these strategies more accessible, especially for small businesses.

You’ll hear about:

  • How 1099 income, board pay, and side gigs can be turned into tax-free retirement savings
  • Why coordination between your CPA, advisor, and TPA is key to getting the most from your plan
  • Real client stories, including one who cut a $400K tax bill with the right plan design
  • The important window for setting up a retirement plan that still applies to last year’s taxes

Resources:

Connect with Sam Diarbakerly:

Connect with Jason Whitney:

About Our Guest:

Jason Whitney is the President of Whitney Pension Associates, a second-generation firm focused on retirement plan design. He joined the family business in 2007 after a career pivot that took him from a grad school degree to helping grow the firm’s national reach. Based in Vermont, Jason is also a Corporator for Mascoma Bank and a passionate New England sports fan. When he’s not helping clients with tax strategy, you’ll find him on the golf course, ski slope, or spending time with his wife and three kids.

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Estate Planning Made Simple: Where to Start and Why It Matters (Ep. 4)

Estate Planning Made Simple: Where to Start and Why It Matters (Ep. 4)

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What happens when families avoid the estate planning conversation? 

In this candid and insight-packed episode, host Sam Diarbakerly sits down with estate planning attorney Crosby Elliott to uncover the often-overlooked truth: the greatest gift you can give your loved ones is clarity.

Together, they walk through the emotional, legal, and financial consequences of not having key documents like trusts, healthcare proxies, or powers of attorney in place. From avoiding probate court chaos to navigating guardianship for minor children, Crosby makes a complex topic feel human and manageable, with a touch of humor, too.

Here’s what you can expect from this release:

  • A breakdown of why revocable trusts are often preferable to wills
  • Real-world stories of what can go wrong without a plan
  • Guidance on choosing the right healthcare proxy and guardian
  • A checklist of critical documents to get in place now
  • And more!

Connect with Sam Diarbakerly: 

Connect with Crosby Elliott:

About Our Guest: 

Attorney Crosby Elliott is a partner at the firm and assists individuals and families in all aspects of estate planning and trust and estate administration. Crosby’s experience in both planning and administration allow him to expertly advise clients through their many stages of life. Crosby prides himself on building relationships with clients to help simplify what can often be an overwhelming experience.

Crosby’s practice focuses on how best to minimize or avoid Massachusetts or federal estate taxes, avoid probate, shield assets from the cost of long-term care, and protect assets for beneficiaries. Crosby accomplishes these goals by employing sophisticated and comprehensive estate planning techniques, including the use of revocable trusts and various irrevocable trusts. Crosby also prepares federal gift tax returns.

A significant portion of Crosby’s practice also involves counseling clients through the administration of a loved one’s trust or estate. In doing so, Crosby regularly prepares and files both Massachusetts and federal estate tax returns, petitions with the probate court, and assists in dispute resolution between parties. Crosby also hosts presentations at businesses, organizations, and clubs on the importance of estate planning.

Outside of the office, Crosby enjoys spending time with his family, friends, and his dog. During the non-winter months, Crosby spends his free time either in Kennebunkport, Maine, hiking along the Appalachian Trail, or just generally enjoying the outdoors.

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Unlocking Private Markets with Phil Huber of Cliffwater (Ep. 3)

Unlocking Private Markets with Phil Huber of Cliffwater (Ep. 3)

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Everyone has a private markets fund, what goes into selecting the best managers??

Phil Huber, Head of Portfolio Solutions at Cliffwater, joins the G360 Wealth Podcast to break down how private equity and credit can become practical investments for more than just the ultra-wealthy. 

He explains how interval funds are changing access, structure, and expectations for investors. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to understand the next evolution of portfolio building.

Key Points:

  • How interval funds reduce the barriers to entry for investors with lower net worth by using accredited investor standards instead of qualified purchaser thresholds [00:02:40]
  • The size, structure, and risk profile of the $1.7 trillion direct lending market, and how it offers floating-rate, senior-secured loans with low interest rate exposure [00:08:11]
  • Why private equity-backed firms prefer direct lending—valuing speed, flexibility, and privacy over traditional bank lending—and how this justifies a yield premium [00:13:00]
  • How Cliffwater’s Direct Lending Index has shown consistent historical returns around 9.5%, with a 300–400 basis point premium over high-yield bonds [00:15:07]
  • The operational simplicity, lower minimums, daily NAV updates, and 1099 tax reporting advantages of interval funds over traditional private equity funds [00:25:12]
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Rex Berger: 

Connect with Phil Huber: 

About Our Guest: 

Phil is a Managing Director and Head of Portfolio Solutions for Cliffwater, based in their Chicago office. In this role, Phil leverages his prior experience as a wealth management CIO to produce and curate investment research, advise on product strategy and positioning for the firm’s growing platform, and help establish and strengthen relationships with the nation’s leading wealth management firms.

Prior to joining Cliffwater, Phil was the Chief Investment Officer for Savant Wealth Management. He earned a bachelor’s degree in finance from the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University. He is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional, has attained his Chartered Financial Analyst® (CFA®) designation, and is a member of the CFA Society of Chicago.

Phil has been featured in a number of notable media outlets, including The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, InvestmentNews, CityWire RIA Magazine, and Bloomberg TV. From 2018-2020, he was named one of Investopedia’s Top Financial Advisors. Phil was also named CIO of the Year by RIA Intel in 2023.

Phil and his wife Christie live in the north suburbs of Chicago where they enjoy staying active and spending time with their two young children, Hannah and Owen. He is also a lifelong, die-hard professional wrestling fan.

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Generational Investments featuring CIO Steve Kolano (Ep. 2)

Generational Investments featuring CIO Steve Kolano (Ep. 2)

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There’s a quiet revolution reshaping how investors build wealth—and it’s not about chasing headlines or hype.

Why are fewer companies going public, and what does that mean for you? What’s really happening under the surface in private credit and equity markets?

In this episode, Rex Berger, Private Wealth Advisor of Generation Capital Advisors, sits down with Steve Kolano, Chief Investment Officer at Integrated Partners, to break down the realities of public versus private investing, why simplification beats complexity, and how private markets are evolving. Together, they unpack what it takes to construct portfolios designed to last for generations.

Key Takeaways:

  • Why most alpha should come from tax and estate planning rather than trying to beat the market [00:10:14]
  • How their “core and explore” philosophy balances efficient index investing with selectively vetted alternatives [00:13:20]
  • The dramatic drop in publicly listed companies since 2000 and the resulting rise of private market opportunities [00:14:40]
  • How market conditions and rising interest rates are forcing private equity firms to focus on long-term operational value over quick exits [00:19:38]
  • The importance of manager selection and due diligence in navigating the private credit and equity space [00:22:00]
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Rex Berger: 

Connect with Steve Kolano: 

About Our Guest: 

Steve Kolano brings a deep passion for both financial markets and people to his role, ensuring that every investment strategy he oversees is custom-built to align with each client’s personal vision of success.

He understands that financial markets are complex, dynamic systems, constantly adapting and evolving. People are no different. Each investor carries unique beliefs, perspectives, and goals that shift over time.

Steve’s mission is rooted in understanding the individual first. What drives them? What informs their decision-making? What is their “why”? By uncovering these insights, Steve crafts investment portfolios that are not only tailored to the person but also integrated with their broader financial plans and strategies.

Throughout his career, Steve has come to embrace a critical truth: there is no magic bullet in investing. No secret formula. No one-size-fits-all portfolio.

What sets Steve apart is his process, beginning with a deep understanding of the client and then applying the art and science of investing in pursuit of their specific goals.

In the end, Steve believes the closest thing to a magic bullet in investing is a well-designed, disciplined plan—and the commitment to stick with it.

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Democratizing the Family Office Approach: GCA’s Vision for Modern Advice (Ep. 1)

Democratizing the Family Office Approach: GCA’s Vision for Modern Advice (Ep. 1)

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What’s the real secret to building and managing significant wealth?

Dive into the inaugural episode of the G360 Wealth Podcast with Sam Diarbakerly, Founder of Generation Capital Advisors, as we uncover what sets Generation Capital Advisors apart. Joined by Matt Ackerman, Chief Brand Officer at Integrate Partners, Sam shares his vision and the passion driving his team from being a modern, holistic wealth management firm to acting as an outsourced CFO for ultra-high-net-worth clients. 

Sam and Matt discuss: 

  • The five distinct pillars of wealth management that guide Generation Capital’s approach [00:01:02]
  • Innovative strategies for cross-generational wealth education and empowerment [00:06:56]
  • Using technology and personalized service to deliver a world-class client experience [00:13:57]
  • A proactive approach to financial education, breaking the “money silence” for future generations [00:21:02]
  • And more

Connect with Sam Diarbakerly: 

Connect With Matt Ackermann:

About Our Guest: 

Matt Ackerman supports Integrated Partners’ growth by creating content that enlightens, informs, and entertains. He’s passionate about shining a spotlight on the incredible advisors and thought leaders at Integrated, using blogs, podcasts, and multimedia to showcase their talent in meaningful ways.

Known for bringing creativity and energy to every role, Matt has always considered himself lucky to have “the fun job.” Throughout his career, he’s used storytelling to highlight the outstanding work of financial advisors across the country—sometimes coloring inside the lines, and other times boldly stepping outside them.

With more than 20 years of experience in wealth management media, Matt joined Integrated in 2020 after serving as director of multimedia at InvestmentNews, where he earned 15 ASPBE awards for digital content creation. His work included Practice Makeover, a reality series aimed at helping advisors revamp their businesses, and a documentary on impact investing that premiered at the United Nations in 2019. Prior to that, he held roles at Financial Planning, American Banker, and the New Jersey Law Journal, where he was named “Rookie of the Year” by the New Jersey Press Association in 1997.

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