John Messervey is one of the original founders in family business advising and wealth continuity. Over his 30+ year career, he has advised more than 460 ultra-high-net-worth families globally and conducted over 10,000 individual interviews with family members. He's headlining the Newport Global Summit this week and is known for his work helping families navigate complex relationships, succession planning, and wealth preservation.

The Biggest Wealth Killer Isn't What You Think John reveals that the primary destroyer of family wealth isn't taxes or poor investment decisions - it's unresolved family conflicts that lead to expensive legal battles. He's seen families spend millions on litigation that could have been resolved through mediation.

"All Relationships Are Fragile" John's core philosophy that guides all his work. He explains why family members often say things to each other they would never say to friends or strangers, and how this damages relationships beyond repair.

The Phrase That Destroys Generational Wealth John calls out the devastating impact of parents saying "I worked hard so you wouldn't have to" - explaining why this creates entitled, unprepared heirs who lack problem-solving skills.

Why Girls Are Winning Right Now John shares his observation that young women are outperforming young men in focus, career drive, and ambition, while too many young men are sitting in their parents' houses waiting for opportunities instead of creating them.

The Three Things You Must Do in Life John's simple but powerful framework: Add value, solve problems, and work effectively. He explains why wealthy children often struggle with these basics because they've never had to solve real problems.

Communication Strategies: Start difficult conversations with "Help me understand" and use "I statements" instead of "you should" language

Family Alignment: Families don't need 100% agreement, just alignment on direction

The "Unspeakables": Every family has secrets everyone knows about - address them before they explode

Wealth as State of Mind: Being wealthy doesn't eliminate problems; it often amplifies existing relationship issues

Respect is Everything: The key to family harmony is mutual respect, even when you disagree

Services: Family business mediation, succession planning, next-generation coaching, wealth continuity. www.privatefamilyadvisor.com

Speaking at Newport Global Summit https://www.newportglobalsummit.com

Family business owners dealing with succession challenges

Wealthy families struggling with communication and harmony

Parents raising children in affluent households

Anyone interested in building stronger family relationships around money and business

Entrepreneurs concerned about preparing the next generation

"All inheritance is a gift. Don't assume you're going to get this."

"The alpha wolves of capitalism are really good at making money. What challenges them is their relationships."

"You don't need 100% agreement. You just need alignment."

Thank The Team: To all those who help me. Gwendolyn Christian for the scheduling and Oliver Kiker for the theme music.