The Tao of Chao Podcast

Philip Chao

The Tao of Chao Podcast focuses on contemporary issues, regulations and class action cases impacting pension and defined contribution retirement plan fiduciaries. Philip Chao and his guests will discuss relevant issues that a plan fiduciary should pay attention to and how such challenges are relevant in operating their retirement plans while serving in the sole interest of participants and beneficiaries. 

  1. JAN 5

    Power, AI, and Morality with Brian Wong

    What does power look like in an age defined by artificial intelligence, geopolitical rivalry, and rapid technological acceleration? In Episode 35 of the Tao of Chao Podcast, Philip Chao welcomes Brian Wong for a compelling discussion on how AI is reshaping global order, the responsibilities of those who wield influence, and the moral frameworks needed to make sound decisions in complex systems. Key insights include:  • How AI alters power structures between nations, institutions, and individuals  • Why moral clarity matters more than ever in high-stakes environments  • The benefits and risks of adopting AI at scale  • How leaders can balance innovation with responsibility and restraint  • Why humility, reflection, and well-defined frameworks improve decision-making  • Where geopolitical competition is headed — and what it means for markets This episode offers a grounded, human-centered exploration of the forces shaping our future and the ethical considerations that must guide our path forward. 👓 Learn more about our HOST Philip Chao Website: https://philipchao.us Follow Philip on LinkedIn DISCLOSURE: Views expressed in the Tao of Chao podcasts are individual opinions and they do not represent the employers of each guest or the firm with which each guest is associated. Our podcasts are for educational and informational purposes only and should not be deemed or viewed as investment advice or recommendations. Please consult your personal financial advisor, investment expert, or investment fiduciary before taking any actions about your plan and investments.

    55 min
  2. 12/02/2025

    Longevity, Literacy, and the Future of Aging with Surya Kolluri

    What does it really mean to live longer — and how do we prepare for a future defined by extended lifespans? In this episode of the Tao of Chao Podcast, Philip Chao welcomes Surya Kolluri, Head of the TIAA Institute, for an in-depth discussion on longevity, retirement planning, cognitive health, and the evolving realities of aging societies.   Key insights include: • The rise of longevity literacy and why so few people understand their true lifespan • How to build longevity fitness across financial, physical, cognitive, and social dimensions • The deep connection between health and wealth — and why disparities are widening • Why planning should focus on income stability, not just accumulated savings • The growing threat of elder fraud and cognitive decline • How social connection dramatically reduces mortality risk • The emergence of age-friendly cities, intergenerational learning, and the longevity economy   Tune in for a grounded, human-centered conversation on how longer lives will reshape families, institutions, and society — and how each of us can prepare with clarity and intention. 👓 Learn more about our HOST Philip Chao Website: https://philipchao.us Follow Philip on LinkedIn DISCLOSURE: Views expressed in the Tao of Chao podcasts are individual opinions and they do not represent the employers of each guest or the firm with which each guest is associated. Our podcasts are for educational and informational purposes only and should not be deemed or viewed as investment advice or recommendations. Please consult your personal financial advisor, investment expert, or investment fiduciary before taking any actions about your plan and investments.

    54 min
  3. 10/27/2025

    Retirement Preparedness for Four Generations with Catherine Collinson

    What does it take to retire well in a world where people are living longer, working differently, and facing new financial realities?   In Episode 33 of the Tao of Chao Podcast, Philip Chao welcomes Catherine Collinson, CEO and President of the Nonprofit Transamerica Institute and Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies, to explore how individuals, employers, and policymakers can collaborate to improve retirement readiness and financial wellness.   Key insights include: How longevity is transforming retirement expectationsWhy financial wellness is more than savings — it’s confidence and controlThe evolving role of employers in helping workers plan for the futureGenerational perspectives on saving, investing, and agingWhat we can all do to create a more secure and purposeful retirement  Tune in for data-driven insights and practical wisdom from one of the nation’s leading voices on the future of retirement. 👓 Learn more about our HOST Philip Chao Website: https://philipchao.us Follow Philip on LinkedIn DISCLOSURE: Views expressed in the Tao of Chao podcasts are individual opinions and they do not represent the employers of each guest or the firm with which each guest is associated. Our podcasts are for educational and informational purposes only and should not be deemed or viewed as investment advice or recommendations. Please consult your personal financial advisor, investment expert, or investment fiduciary before taking any actions about your plan and investments.

    1h 1m
  4. 10/09/2025

    Fiduciary Leadership and Behavioral Governance with Don Trone

    What does it take to lead responsibly in today’s complex world? In Episode 32 of the Tao of Chao Podcast, Philip Chao sits down with Don Trone, founder of the Behavioral Governance Institute, to discuss the principles of fiduciary leadership and the importance of behavioral governance. Key insights include: Why fiduciary duty is best understood as a standard of character, not just complianceHow behavioral governance helps leaders align decisions with valuesThe importance of ethics, accountability, and trust in financial servicesLessons from Don’s career advancing fiduciary responsibility and governance frameworksWhy stewardship and leadership are inseparable in finance, business, and beyondThis wide-ranging conversation is essential listening for investors, advisors, and anyone who wants to understand the deeper meaning of responsible leadership. 👓 Learn more about our HOST Philip Chao Website: https://philipchao.us Follow Philip on LinkedIn DISCLOSURE: Views expressed in the Tao of Chao podcasts are individual opinions and they do not represent the employers of each guest or the firm with which each guest is associated. Our podcasts are for educational and informational purposes only and should not be deemed or viewed as investment advice or recommendations. Please consult your personal financial advisor, investment expert, or investment fiduciary before taking any actions about your plan and investments.

    59 min
  5. 06/05/2025

    Fiduciary Duty, Participant Engagement & Personalization w/ Katrina Berishaj | Tao of Chao 30

    How well do employers really know their plan participants — and are they using that data in participants' best interests? In this episode of the Tao of Chao podcast, Philip Chao welcomes Katrina Berishaj, Chair of ERISA and Employee Benefits at Stradley Ronon, for a deep discussion on the evolving responsibilities of fiduciaries, especially in the defined contribution plan space. They explore how employers and advisors can meet their fiduciary obligations more effectively — not just by offering plans, but by understanding their participants' needs, behaviors, and goals. Katrina shares actionable insights into: - Why participant engagement remains a persistent barrier to retirement readiness - The increasing value of employer-held data — and the ethical obligation to use it-  How managed accounts and personalized investment solutions are evolving - The risks of failing to adapt: from liability to participant detriment - Where financial institutions are making strides (and where they’re still falling short) This thought-provoking episode is a must-listen for plan sponsors, advisors, and anyone navigating the future of retirement plans. 🔗 Listen now for a grounded, expert take on fiduciary strategy and the human side of retirement planning. 👓 Learn more about our GUEST  Katrina Berishaj Chair of ERISA & Employee Benefits Stradley Ronon 👓 Learn more about our HOST Philip Chao Website: https://philipchao.us Follow Philip on LinkedIn DISCLOSURE: Views expressed in the Tao of Chao podcasts are individual opinions and they do not represent the employers of each guest or the firm with which each guest is associated. Our podcasts are for educational and informational purposes only and should not be deemed or viewed as investment advice or recommendations. Please consult your personal financial advisor, investment expert, or investment fiduciary before taking any actions about your plan and investments.

    50 min
  6. 05/09/2025

    Navigating a New Global Order: U.S.–China Dynamics, Geopolitical Complexity, and the Future of Capitalism w/ Dr. Brian Wong | Tao of Chao 29

    How stable is today's world order — really?  In this episode of the Tao of Chao podcast, Philip Chao sits down with Dr. Brian Wong, Assistant Professor at the University of Hong Kong and geopolitical strategist, to unpack the evolving dynamics between the United States and China. Together, they explore the fragile nature of the so-called unipolar world, the emerging complexities of multipolarity, and why both America and China may be their own greatest obstacles. Brian shares deep insights into: Why the U.S. still commands unparalleled global influence — despite internal fracturesHow China's internal challenges and external pressures shape its strategic patienceThe critical need for safety nets, private sector revitalization, and structural reform within ChinaThe misconceptions about capitalism, populism, and elite influence in shaping today's global tensionsWhy no grand strategy may be steering the escalating U.S.-China tariff warThis thought-provoking conversation bridges philosophy, geopolitics, and economics to offer listeners a broader perspective on where the world might be heading — and what it means for investors, policymakers, and everyday citizens alike. 🔗 Listen now to discover the deeper forces reshaping the global landscape. 👓 Learn more about our GUEST  Dr. Brian Wong Assistant Professor University of Hong Kong 👓 Learn more about our HOST Philip Chao Website: https://philipchao.us Follow Philip on LinkedIn DISCLOSURE: Views expressed in the Tao of Chao podcasts are individual opinions and they do not represent the employers of each guest or the firm with which each guest is associated. Our podcasts are for educational and informational purposes only and should not be deemed or viewed as investment advice or recommendations. Please consult your personal financial advisor, investment expert, or investment fiduciary before taking any actions about your plan and investments.

    56 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

The Tao of Chao Podcast focuses on contemporary issues, regulations and class action cases impacting pension and defined contribution retirement plan fiduciaries. Philip Chao and his guests will discuss relevant issues that a plan fiduciary should pay attention to and how such challenges are relevant in operating their retirement plans while serving in the sole interest of participants and beneficiaries.