What inspired you to join Bernstein?
I was initially drawn to Bernstein after reading a few of the firm’s planning research pieces. Bernstein had built a completely different type of planning tool than any other firm I was interviewing with at the time. One of the key differentiators was the firm’s ability to update its planning tool’s engine with current economic data, as opposed to a reliance on past results, to create more plausible forecasts. As a naturally curious person, it made me want to know more about the tool and how it worked to provide potentially better outcomes. Over the years, I’ve found that our intense research focus, our distinct modeling abilities, and our capacity to work with clients in unique ways—leveraging capabilities that many advisory firms lack—produce impactful results for our clients.
Share one of your most memorable professional accomplishments with us.
A few years ago, I realized that many of our clients with significant non-cash passion assets— collectibles—had not given much thought to the role of these assets in their long-term plans. As I began researching the income tax characteristics of this asset class, I learned that many clients held assumptions about their collections that proved to be untrue. Consequently, they were overlooking opportunities to benefit from tax-efficient transfer strategies.
I decided to write a white paper on the topic, and I now lead our firm’s internal practice, educating advisors, clients, outside partners, and prospective clients about the complexities of collectibles as an asset class. I have also been invited to speak to multiple leading tax and estate planning councils around the country about strategies for addressing this widely ignored asset class.
Who has been the most influential person in your life?
My father has had the most impact and influence on my life in two relevant ways. Marrying a widow with three young children was probably never in his original life plan, but without him I wouldn’t be where I am today.
First, as someone who never stopped thirsting for knowledge, he instilled in me a desire to continually reach for more. My dad taught himself the art of blacksmithing, creating elaborate metalwork—including all the hardware for our family home, which he also built himself with help from some friends. His constant search for ways he could provide value to his community was authentic and meaningful for all who knew him.
Second, my father passed away unexpectedly a few years ago, when he had not yet prepared foundational estate planning documents. Sharing this personal story has helped me educate families on the complexities of the estate and wealth transfer system and the importance of planning ahead.