What do you like most about your work?
I really enjoy hearing clients' stories about their financial situation, because they are all different. Some own businesses, others are successful professionals, and of course some inherited wealth. There are always issues to deal with - families, retirement, charitable giving, sometimes the loss of a job or starting a new business. I'm here to listen to clients to help them think through these important life decisions.
How do you like to communicate with clients?
I'm happy to communicate pretty much how a client wants to communicate. Text, email, phone, Zoom call, in-person. I think the most emotional times are by phone, because something big has happened. It's too important for email, and it's too urgent to schedule a meeting. I think it's important to respond to a client as soon as possible. If I'm not on a plane or in a meeting, I should be able to get back in touch within an hour.
What is the most difficult market environment you have lived through?
I've been in the investment business more than 25 years (which I find hard to believe), so I've seen some ugly markets. The great recession was stunning, because the American banking system was close to collapse. But for me, the toughest was 9/11. I was in New York City that day at a conference, and it took me 3 days to figure out a way home. When the market finally re-opened, you just didn't know how the world was going to change. Would anyone ever get on a plane again? Or a train? Or a bus? There was period of time when you weren't just concerned about investments - you were worried for your physical safety.
How do you like living in Nashville?
I was born and raised here, and I've always been a big fan of the city. Even when I lived in Chicago for 15 years, part of me wanted to move back home. I liked Chicago too, but my family and oldest friends are here. I wanted my kids to grow up near their grandparents and cousins, and I think it's given them the same sense of family that I developed growing up here.
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