In this episode of the Dakota Live! Podcast, host Robert Morier welcomes back Jennifer DeSisto, Chief Investment Officer of CW Advisors, for a wide-ranging conversation about her new role and the rapidly evolving RIA landscape.

Now overseeing a $14 billion platform, Jen shares how she's building out CW Advisors’ investment platform from the ground up, integrating private markets, tax-managed strategies, and institutional-level manager research across a growing network of acquired firms. With a sharp focus on scalable infrastructure, Jen walks us through what it takes to harmonize disparate teams, systems, and philosophies into one unified, forward-looking investment platform.

Listen for insights on:

• Building a CIO-led investment process in a fast-growing RIA
  
  
• The current outlook for private equity, private credit, and hedge funds
  
  
• What RIAs need from asset managers today—and what makes a great pitch
  
  
• CW’s approach to structuring its team and onboarding acquired firms
  
  
• How semi-liquid structures and platforms like CAIS are shaping private market access
  
  
• The priorities for expanding into public markets, emerging markets, and co-investments
  
  
• Recruiting and mentoring investment talent in a competitive environment
  
  

Whether you’re an allocator, asset manager, or just curious about how RIAs are evolving into institutional-caliber investors, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at strategy, integration, and leadership in action.