The Premier Path Podcast

In this episode of the Premier Path Podcast, Patrick York sits down with Michael Wilbur, Executive Vice President of the North American Association of Floor Covering Distributors (NAFCD), to discuss what it takes to build a business that lasts.

They explore the unique passion and relationships that define the floor covering distribution industry, the importance of creating space to work on the business rather than just in it, and why connecting with peers can provide invaluable perspective for business owners. They also discuss some of the biggest issues facing owners today—from rising costs and AI to leadership transitions and preparing the next generation.

The conversation ultimately comes back to succession and legacy: there is no single path that is right for every business. Whether an owner hopes to transition the company to the next generation, sell, or pursue another path, the first step is understanding why they built the business and what they ultimately want it to become.

Patrick and Michael also look ahead to NAFCD’s upcoming convention and the opportunities these industry gatherings create for owners and their teams to learn, connect, and prepare their businesses for what comes next.

Important Disclaimer:

Premier Path Wealth Partners is registered as an investment adviser with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. SEC registration does not constitute an endorsement of the Firm by the Commission, nor does it indicate that the Firm has attained a particular level of skill or ability. The material discussed in this episode is provided for informational purposes only and should not be taken as tax, legal or investment advice. Any market information is from sources deemed reliable and may be the opinions of investment professionals, but you should consult your financial advisor for further assistance. Past performance of investment, sector, or index is not indicative of future results. Please refer to Premier Path's disclosure documents for further information concerning specific products or services.

In this episode, Derek Wittjohann sits down with Hans Dekker, President of the Community Foundation of New Jersey, for a conversation about making philanthropy more intentional, strategic, and meaningful.

Hans shares his perspective on donor-advised funds, how they compare to private foundations, and the role thoughtful planning can play in aligning charitable giving with a family’s financial goals. But the conversation goes well beyond the numbers. Derek and Hans explore how families can identify the causes that matter most to them, evaluate charitable organizations, involve the next generation, and build a giving strategy that reflects their values and creates a lasting legacy.

From donating appreciated assets to navigating family dynamics and finding the right organizations to support, this episode offers a practical look at how families can shorten the distance between their dollars and the impact they hope to make.

Important Disclaimer:

Community Foundation of New Jersey is a current client of and has a referral relationship with Premier Path Wealth Partners. No compensation is exchanged between the parties for client referrals nor was compensation provided for this appearance. This episode is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation of either party’s services. Community Foundation's experience is their own and may not be representative of the experience of other clients. This testimonial should not be construed as a guarantee of future performance or results.

Premier Path Wealth Partners is registered as an investment adviser with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. SEC registration does not constitute an endorsement of the Firm by the Commission, nor does it indicate that the Firm has attained a particular level of skill or ability. The material discussed in this episode is provided for informational purposes only and should not be taken as tax, legal or investment advice. Any market information is from sources deemed reliable and may be the opinions of investment professionals, but you should consult your financial advisor for further assistance. Past performance of investment, sector, or index is not indicative of future results. Please refer to Premier Path's disclosure documents for further information concerning specific products or services.

In this episode of the Premier Path Podcast, Michael Lehman sits down with Scott Mashuda, Founder and Managing Director of REAG, an investment banking and advisory firm specializing in mergers and acquisitions, business valuation, and transition planning, to discuss what business owners should know long before they are ready to sell.

Michael and Scott explore how businesses are valued, what buyers are really looking for, and why purchase price is only one piece of a successful transaction. They discuss the importance of quality of earnings, preparing a business for market, understanding the differences between private equity, strategic buyers, and family offices, and the role an experienced M&A advisor can play in creating competition and protecting value throughout the process.

They also address common deal killers, the emotional side of selling a business, and why building the right team of advisors well before a transition can make all the difference.

Important Disclaimer:

Scott Mashuda and Premier Path have a mutual referral relationship in business consulting. No compensation is exchanged between the parties for client referrals. This episode is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation of either party’s services.

Premier Path Wealth Partners is registered as an investment adviser with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. SEC registration does not constitute an endorsement of the Firm by the Commission, nor does it indicate that the Firm has attained a particular level of skill or ability. The material discussed in this episode is provided for informational purposes only and should not be taken as tax, legal or investment advice. Any market information is from sources deemed reliable and may be the opinions of investment professionals, but you should consult your financial advisor for further assistance. Past performance of investment, sector, or index is not indicative of future results. Please refer to Premier Path's disclosure documents for further information concerning specific products or services.

In this episode of the Premier Path Podcast, Mike Lehman sits down with Duane Liedl, Director and Senior Portfolio Manager at BlackRock, to discuss the evolving fixed income landscape and why bonds may once again play a critical role in investors' portfolios.

Together, they explore today's interest rate environment, the Federal Reserve's outlook, managing bond risk, the value of active fixed income management, and how customized bond portfolios can help preserve capital while generating income. Whether you're wondering if now is the right time to invest in bonds or simply want a better understanding of fixed income, this conversation offers practical insights into one of the most important areas of today's market.

Important Disclaimer:

Premier Path Wealth Partners is registered as an investment adviser with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. SEC registration does not constitute an endorsement of the Firm by the Commission, nor does it indicate that the Firm has attained a particular level of skill or ability. The material discussed in this episode is provided for informational purposes only and should not be taken as tax, legal or investment advice. Any market information is from sources deemed reliable and may be the opinions of investment professionals, but you should consult your financial advisor for further assistance. Past performance of investment, sector, or index is not indicative of future results. Please refer to Premier Path's disclosure documents for further information concerning specific products or services.

In this episode, Derek Wittjohann, COO of Premier Path Wealth Partners, sits down with Christin Cardone McClave, advisor at Legacy Capitals and former COO and CHRO of CARDONE Industries, a third-generation family enterprise with more than $1.2 billion in revenue and 5,000 employees. As both a family shareholder and senior executive, Christin played a key role in guiding the company through generational leadership transitions, organizational transformation, and ultimately a successful acquisition by a global private equity firm.

Together, they discuss succession planning, preparing the next generation for leadership, navigating the emotional side of a business transition, and balancing family dynamics with long-term business success. Christin also shares lessons from her own journey—from building a career outside the family business to returning to help lead one of the nation's largest family-owned enterprises through a pivotal chapter in its history.

Whether you're a business owner, family shareholder, or part of the rising generation, this conversation offers valuable insights on leadership, legacy, and creating a successful transition while preserving the relationships that matter most.

Important Disclaimer:

Premier Path Wealth Partners is registered as an investment adviser with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. SEC registration does not constitute an endorsement of the Firm by the Commission, nor does it indicate that the Firm has attained a particular level of skill or ability. The material discussed in this episode is provided for informational purposes only and should not be taken as tax, legal or investment advice. Any market information is from sources deemed reliable and may be the opinions of investment professionals, but you should consult your financial advisor for further assistance. Past performance of investment, sector, or index is not indicative of future results. Please refer to Premier Path's disclosure documents for further information concerning specific products or services.

In this episode, Michael Lehman of Premier Path sits down with Gary Fisch, founder of Gary’s Wine and Marketplace, to discuss his nearly 40-year journey building one of New Jersey’s most respected retail brands. Gary shares how he started with a small store in 1987 and grew it into a nationally recognized name in wine retail through grit, timing, and a relentless focus on customer experience.

They explore the realities of entrepreneurship, navigating economic downturns, expanding into Napa Valley, and balancing growth with quality of life. Gary also reflects on family business dynamics, including the importance of buy-sell agreements and the role his son played in modernizing the company during the pandemic.

The conversation also touches on the future of retail, including AI, evolving consumer habits, and why hospitality and “guest experience” remain at the heart of everything Gary builds. A thoughtful look at leadership, legacy, and what it really takes to build a lasting business rooted in relationships.

Important Disclaimer:

Premier Path Wealth Partners is registered as an investment adviser with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. SEC registration does not constitute an endorsement of the Firm by the Commission, nor does it indicate that the Firm has attained a particular level of skill or ability. The material discussed in this episode is provided for informational purposes only and should not be taken as tax, legal or investment advice. Any market information is from sources deemed reliable and may be the opinions of investment professionals, but you should consult your financial advisor for further assistance. Past performance of investment, sector, or index is not indicative of future results. Please refer to Premier Path's disclosure documents for further information concerning specific products or services.

In this episode of the Premier Path Podcast, CEO Michael Lehman sits down with CIO Brian Glenn to explore what it really means to put investment philosophy into action.

Brian walks through his role as Chief Investment Officer at Premier Path Wealth Partners, explaining how client goals, liquidity needs, and long-term outcomes shape every decision. They discuss key topics including public vs. private markets, the role of alternatives, active and passive investing, direct indexing for tax efficiency, and why staying invested matters more than trying to time the market.

Whether you’re an investor looking to understand portfolio strategy or simply curious how financial leaders think about risk and growth, this episode provides practical insights into the disciplined approach that drives client success.

Some investments discussed are only available to accredited investors and qualified purchasers as defined by applicable securities laws. Prospective investors should consult their financial professional to determine suitability.