Building Lasting Business Value in the Age of AI
Legacy
What if you could transform your business by embracing cutting-edge technology and innovation? Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Jay Kulkarni, CEO of Theorem, who shares his remarkable journey of adapting to the fast-paced world of digital innovation. With over two decades of experience, Jay provides a masterclass in future-proofing your business, diving into the pivotal role of automation and AI in redefining business models for long-term success. From the revolutionary solution Upward to the intricacies of video commerce, discover how technology can streamline operations and...
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Business Growth through Community Engagement
Legacy
Can businesses truly stand out in the sea of AI-generated content flooding the digital world? With a promise to unveil innovative strategies, we engage with Jon Logan, the visionary founder of Greenlit Growth Strategies, to dissect the transformative power of online communities. By sharing unique tactics like reimagining traditional marketing methods with a modern flair such as using road signs for workshops we explore how companies can forge stronger connections with their audience amidst the overwhelming influx of digital noise. This episode offers a compelling examination of how industries...
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The Power of Peer Support in Career Pivots and Tech Transitions
Legacy
What if the uncertainty you're feeling about your career path is more common and more solvable than you think? In this episode, Khushboo Sheikh tech leader and founder of Tech Exploration shares how community, storytelling, and strategic self-awareness can turn doubt into direction. Hear the real-life story of Subhan Ali’s pivot from a civil engineering PhD to leading AI product development at NVIDIA, and discover how to spot the untapped skills and passions that could fuel your own transition. We dive deep into the unique challenges women face during major life changes like maternity leave,...
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Unveiling the World of Ghostwriting: Insights, Challenges, and the Future
Legacy
Can you imagine building a successful career while staying hidden in the shadows? Join us on the Business Legacy Podcast as we chat with Marsha Layton-Turner, the insightful founder of the Association of Ghostwriters. Marsha shares her unique journey into the world of ghostwriting, where the art of storytelling meets the necessity of anonymity. We uncover the mysterious concept of recognition estrangement and challenge the notion that ghostwriters must always long for the spotlight. Learn why a close-knit community and an abundance mindset are essential for these behind-the-scenes literary...
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Breaking into Cannabis: How to Build a Clean Brand Consumers Trust
Legacy
Imagine transitioning from the fast-paced world of investment banking to pioneering a clean cannabis brand. That's exactly what Dayj Pilla did, and her journey is nothing short of inspiring. In our latest episode of the Business Legacy Podcast, Dayj invites us into her world, sharing how her formative years at the University of Virginia and a pivotal internship at JP Morgan during the 2008 financial crisis shaped her career path. Despite her success in finance, Dayj felt the entrepreneurial pull, driven by her father's small business influence and her own desire for a more meaningful pursuit....
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Transforming Hardship into Success: Resilience, Strategy, and Building a Thriving Business
Legacy
What if a simple pencil and paper could transform a failing business into a flourishing empire? Join me as I sit down with RJon Robins, the inspiring co-founder of How to Manage a Small Law Firm, to uncover the remarkable journey of resilience and strategic reinvention that led him from the brink of financial ruin to entrepreneurial success. RJon shares the heart-wrenching decision he faced when prioritizing his wife's health over his struggling business, a pivotal moment that catalyzed a strategic overhaul. Through his candid narrative, discover the power of setting clear goals and the...
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Empowering Your Business Exit with Insights from The Escape Artist
Legacy
What if you could escape the grind of business ownership and step into a new chapter with confidence and insight? In our latest episode, we welcome John Martinka from Martinka Consulting, also known as "The Escape Artist," who shares his expertise on transitioning out of a business. John's unique journey into consulting, fueled by a blend of serendipity and mastermind group inspiration, is as enlightening as it is motivating. We explore the intriguing dynamics of business sales, where well-managed, profitable businesses find buyers despite an inefficient market. The conversation highlights the...
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Startups, Survival, and Self-Mastery: Lessons from 30 Years as a Founder
Legacy
Imagine stepping into the role of CEO at just 19 years old, navigating the whirlwind of business growth while wrestling with the weight of immense responsibility. That's precisely what our guest, Wil Schroter, founder of startups.com, experienced. Through candid reflections, he shares personal milestones that marked both triumphs and tribulations, revealing how the relentless pursuit of stability shaped his entrepreneurial path. Despite achieving financial success, Wil opens up about the physical and mental toll of overworking, emphasizing the crucial lessons in self-care and health he gained...
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ION's Evolution and the Art of Leadership
Legacy
What do you have your eye on? Join us for an intriguing conversation with Dave Behar, the visionary CEO and Chief Executive Athlete of ION, as he takes us through the captivating story of ION's transformation from a sports merchandising startup to a dynamic digital media giant. Discover how Dave's innovative mindset propelled the ION brand into e-commerce, media production, and even quirky sporting spectacles like turtle and pig racing. Learn about the brand's unique name origin and delve into Dave's insights on what constitutes a remarkable brand, focusing on integrity, sustainability, and...
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Building Strong Foundations in the Cyber Age
Legacy
What if your biggest cybersecurity crisis could become your company’s greatest growth opportunity? In this episode, Bradley Thies CEO and founder of BARR Advisory, shares how his unexpected shift from accounting to cybersecurity shaped his view of security as a strategic investment. From Equifax’s high-profile breach to small business vulnerabilities, Bradley unpacks how transparency, education, and culture shifts can turn risk into resilience. This conversation goes beyond damage control—it's about redefining legacy through leadership in moments of pressure. In our conversation, Bradley...
info_outlineCurious about the shift toward creating financial legacies that impact families in real-time? Join us for a transformative conversation with Brett Bernstein, CEO and co-founder of XML Financial Group, as we explore his journey from a major financial institution to starting his own independent firm. Brett opens up about the challenges and triumphs he faced when leaving Merrill Lynch, emphasizing the importance of client trust and education in building a successful business. We uncover the evolution of client interactions over the last two decades, noting an inspiring trend towards meaningful financial legacies that support loved ones during their lifetime.
As we continue, we explore the changing dynamics of the workforce and how different generations are reshaping the industry. I share personal insights into the gratifying journey of entrepreneurship, highlighting the growth of clients and team members alike. The episode reveals the importance of cultivating a team-oriented culture that fosters personal and professional growth, instead of centering around individual leaders. We also discuss the promising future of wealth management, as the retirement of seasoned advisors opens doors for succession planning and new talent to shine.
Timestamps
00:00:00 - Introduction and Welcome to Business Legacy Podcast
00:00:10 - Introducing Brett Bernstein, CEO and Co-founder of XML Financial Group
00:01:00 - Brett Bernstein's Transition from Merrill Lynch to Independent Wealth Management
00:03:30 - Challenges and Successes in Establishing XML Financial Group
00:05:15 - The Importance of Client Trust and Education in Independent Financial Firms
00:07:00 - Evolution of Client Interactions and the Growing Significance of Philanthropy
00:09:48 - Building a Legacy Through Hard Work: Workforce Dynamics and Entrepreneurial Gratification
00:12:00 - Creating a Team-Oriented Culture and Emphasizing Succession Planning
00:14:30 - The Fulfillment of Nurturing Talent and Watching Client Success
00:17:00 - Strategic Growth and Mergers in the Wealth Management Industry
00:19:30 - Identifying and Mentoring Talent within XML Financial Group
00:22:00 - Reflecting on Personal and Professional Legacy Goals
00:24:30 - Exciting Prospects for Growth and Innovation in Wealth Management
00:26:30 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts from Brett Bernstein
00:27:45 - Closing Remarks
Check out XML Financial Group here: https://www.xmlfg.com/
Legacy Podcast: For more information about the Legacy Podcast and its co-hosts, visit businesslegacypodcast.com.
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