How do you build a client-first financial firm from the ground up—and keep it human at scale?
In this episode of Sterling Insights, Roger sits down with Susie Cranston, President and COO of Cresset, a $65+ billion multifamily office and private investment firm. Together, they explore what it takes to deliver deeply personalized wealth management at scale, sharing valuable insights and practical tips for leaders, founders, and families navigating complex financial landscapes. Susie draws from decades of experience at McKinsey, First Republic, and now Cresset to discuss the power of culture, the evolution of client expectations, and how RIAs are reshaping wealth advisory. This episode is a must-listen for ultra-high-net-worth families, founders approaching liquidity, and professionals building modern client-first financial firms, providing both knowledge and tools to navigate this important subject.
 Key Takeaways:
● 💼 Client-First DNA: Cresset’s model was literally built by clients, for clients, offering flexibility that traditional banks can’t match.
● 🏛️ RIAs vs. Banks: Regulatory constraints limit the services banks can provide—RIAs like Cresset offer broader, deeper support in tax and private investing.
● 🔍 Fit Over Size: Cresset’s ideal client isn’t just about net worth—it’s about mindset and the desire for holistic, customizable support.
● 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Team Culture Drives Client Success: Exceptional service starts with exceptional culture—Cresset prioritizes servant leaders and long interview processes to build elite teams.
● 📈 Scale Matters—for the Right Reasons: Being “industrial-grade” at $50B+ AUM allows for better infrastructure, tech, and access—without losing the boutique client feel.
 Quotes from Susie Cranston:
● “Our origin story is unique—we were built by clients, for clients.”
● “You can’t outsource culture. It’s the best predictor of organizational success.”
● “We aim to be the co-pilot in a family's financial life—scaling with them across the journey.”
 🔗 Cressent offers what most firms can’t: customized service backed by enterprise-level infrastructure. Learn more at cressentcapital.com and tune into this episode to see what the future of wealth management looks like.

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Welcome to episode 001 of the Sterling Insights: Stand Out & Supercharge Your Assets hosted by Roger Silk. In this episode Roger sits down with Michael Martin and they talk about asset diversification

 Michael Martin is a partner and the director of investments and insurance at Legacy Financial Partners. Throughout his career in the financial services industry, Michael’s investment philosophy for his clients has always emphasized the importance of “making money and saving money — as safely as possible.” The cornerstone of his philosophy is a primary objective of risk mitigation and value-added growth. 

Here is what to expect on this week’s show:

Michael emphasizes the importance of categorizing assets into different types to manage risks effectively. By allocating assets into advisory accounts, safe assets like CDs and annuities, and alternative investments such as real estate or preferred stock, investors can diversify their portfolio and reduce overall risk exposure.

Michael highlights the significance of long-term financial planning that addresses various aspects like income, taxes, healthcare, investments, and legacy planning. Tailoring strategies to individual client needs, especially those near or in retirement, is crucial for ensuring financial stability and security.

Michael stresses the importance of understanding clients' emotional responses to financial decisions and guiding them towards making informed choices that align with their goals and values.

Connect with Michael:

Website: https://lfpfinancial.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lfpfinancialwpb/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/legacy-financial-partners/

Connect with Roger:

Website:  https://www.sterlingfoundations.com

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/sterlingfoundations/

Twitter:  https://x.com/SterlingFndMgt?mx=2

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/sterling-foundation-management-llc/

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💼 Ever wonder what it really takes to manage complex family wealth or keep your business finances aligned across multiple entities? Discover the strategic and deeply human side of accounting in this eye-opening conversation.

In this episode of Sterling Insights, co-host Mike Agol sits down with Christopher Saffron, CPA and Senior Tax Advisor at EEPB, a Houston-based full-service accounting firm. Together, they explore the world of tax planning and family wealth management, sharing valuable insights and practical tips for business owners, professionals, and multi-generational families. Christopher draws from his 17+ years of experience to discuss the nuances of managing high-net-worth clients, the “sacred trust” of being a CPA, and the challenges of delivering precise work in a deadline-driven profession. This episode is a must-listen for business owners, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to gain clarity in their financial life, providing both knowledge and tools to navigate this essential topic.

Key Takeaways:

● 📊 Strategic Tax Alignment: Why coordinating business and personal tax returns is crucial for avoiding costly missteps.

● 🧾 The CPA as Confidant: How clients share deeply personal information—and the responsibility that comes with it.

● 🕰️ Timing is Everything: Why proactive planning (not last-minute filing) makes all the difference.

● 🌐 Specialized Services: From oil & gas outsourcing to R&D credits—how EEPB offers niche expertise across industries.

● 🤝 Relationship-Driven Success: Why long-term client relationships and understanding family dynamics are key to smart tax planning.

Quotes from Christopher Saffron:

● "Being a CPA is kind of a sacred trust—you’re dealing with people’s lives, not just their numbers."

● "We’re in an industry run by deadlines—April, September, October—and motivating clients early is a big part of our work."

● "Our ideal client is someone we can serve holistically—both business and personal—so we’re not working at cross-purposes."

🔗 Conclusion: Clear, empathetic, and strategy-focused, Christopher gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at what it really means to be a trusted financial advisor in today’s complex world.

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Welcome to a Fan Favorite Episode of Sterling Insights:  Sterling Insights: Stand Out & Supercharge Your Assets, hosted by Roger Silk.  In this episode, Roger sits down with Jamie Bush and discusses how his family's political legacy shaped his aspirations and decisions.

Jamie Bush has over 40 years of experience advising clients on complex financial, business, and personal matters. Known for his skill in connecting people and fostering beneficial partnerships, Jamie provides valuable counsel and introduces clients to the right advisors for specific challenges.

His team has contributed to succession planning for prominent New England businesses, including seafood distributors, beverage wholesalers, construction firms, and real estate developers.

Jamie has served on nonprofit boards in healthcare, elderly housing, education, and professional associations. As a member of a prominent political family and an advocate for Boston's underserved communities, he leverages his expertise and experience to elevate the needs of the underprivileged and underrepresented.

Here are some highlights from the episode:

Jamie’s journey highlights the importance of carving your own path and building a unique identity, independent of a prominent family legacy. Aim to define yourself on your own terms.

Jaime's deliberation on entering politics highlights the complex interplay between personal aspirations and familial duties. It's essential to weigh the impact of your choices on both professional ambitions and personal relationships.

Jamie explains, while a noteworthy surname can open doors, true success lies in professionalism and dedication to your craft. Regardless of your background, prioritizing integrity and excellence will set you apart in your field.

Connect with Jamie:

Website:  https://www.bushandcompany.com

Connect with Roger:

Website:  https://www.sterlingfoundations.com

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/sterlingfoundations/

Twitter:  https://x.com/SterlingFndMgt?mx=2

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/sterling-foundation-management-llc/

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💸 What if you could legally eliminate most of your clients’ tax burdens while creating new income streams? This episode dives into the strategies that make it possible.

In this episode of Sterling Insights, Roger sits down with Michael D. Aguas, Chief Reignmaker at the Reignstorm Group and a veteran financial strategist. Together, they explore how tax and accounting professionals can unlock massive value for their clients through strategic tax mitigation and alternative investments. Michael draws from his decades of experience to discuss overlooked tax strategies, the power of tax-efficient planning, and how professionals can generate revenue while solving client pain points. This episode is a must-listen for CPAs, financial advisors, and tax professionals looking to deepen their client relationships and grow their practice.

Key Takeaways:

● 💡 Tax Strategy Innovation: Discover how simple structures like LLCs and charitable giving strategies can virtually eliminate capital gains taxes. ● 💼 Partner-Led Wealth Building: Learn how CPAs and advisors can collaborate with Rainstorm to expand services and share in revenue. ● 🏗️ Equipment Leasing Playbook: Understand how a 10% down, tax-deductible equipment leasing strategy turns tax liabilities into cash flow opportunities. ● 🧮 Proven Compliance: Hear how these advanced strategies have survived IRS scrutiny and how clients are protected with audit support. ● 📈 Client Growth Catalyst: See how solving big tax problems builds client loyalty and drives referrals to grow your advisory business.

Quotes from Michael D. Aguas:

● “You, the IRS, and a nonprofit—you get to choose which two win. Who would you pick?” ● “Instead of paying large taxes, we can eliminate the liability, generate monthly income, and even get your initial investment back.” ● “I’ve helped over 500 CPAs and EAs turn tax problems into opportunities—and that’s just the beginning.”

🔗 Conclusion: Whether you're an advisor seeking new revenue or a tax pro looking to deliver elite-level value, Michael Aguas reveals how strategic partnerships and smart planning can change the game for you and your clients.

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 How a Values-Based Approach Can Transform Financial Planning
In this episode of Sterling Insights, Roger sits down with Jill Carothers, Vice President of Investment Advice at Rebalance. Together, they explore how personalized, values-driven financial planning can make a profound difference in clients’ lives, especially those navigating wealth during their peak earning years. Jill draws from her extensive experience to discuss the power of mind mapping, the importance of simplifying complex portfolios, and strategic considerations for equity compensation. This episode is a must-listen for professionals and executives in their 40s and 50s looking to take control of their financial future with clarity and confidence.
Key Takeaways:
● 💡 Mind Mapping for Clarity: Jill uses mind maps to uncover client values and goals, setting the stage for meaningful and customized financial plans.
● 💼 Managing Complexity: Learn how to consolidate scattered accounts, avoid cash drag, and maintain tax efficiency.
● 📊 Equity Compensation Strategies: Discover how to manage concentrated stock positions and integrate charitable giving for tax relief.
● 🧩 Holistic Planning: From 401(k)s to 529s and estate planning, Jill emphasizes looking at the full financial picture.
● 📉 Smart Rebalancing: Hear how Rebalance uses twice-yearly calendar-based portfolio adjustments to maintain alignment without overreacting to market noise.
Quotes from Jill Carothers:
● "The mind map is a tool I use to understand what really matters most to my clients—it's the foundation of everything we do together."
● "It's not unusual for clients to have money in five different places. Step one is often just simplifying."
● "We want to be as simple as possible, but there are lots of layers we can add if needed—like donor-advised funds or tax loss harvesting."
🔗 Conclusion: Whether you're a DIY investor ready for expert help or facing financial complexity from equity comp and life transitions, this episode offers a thoughtful and human-centered look at managing wealth wisely.
 
Connect with Jill:
Website:  https://www.rebalance360.com

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jcarothers/

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