The Premier Path Podcast

Premier Path Wealth Partners

We’re an independent registered investment advisor helping multigenerational families, entrepreneurs, executives, and private business owners navigate today’s complex wealth challenges. Each episode turns values into action—clarifying goals, supporting passions, and preparing for tomorrow and beyond. 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.

Episodes

  1. Oct 6

    From Family Legacy to Long-Term Business Growth with Michael Wilbur

    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.

    From Family Legacy to Long-Term Business Growth with Michael Wilbur
  2. Sep 14

    How to Make Your Giving More Impactful with Hans Dekker

    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.

    How to Make Your Giving More Impactful with Hans Dekker
  3. Aug 14

    Don't Sell Your Business Until You Know This - A Discussion with Scott Mashuda

    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.

    Don't Sell Your Business Until You Know This - A Discussion with Scott Mashuda
  4. Jul 13

    The Bond Market and Municipal Investing with Duane Liedl

    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.

    The Bond Market and Municipal Investing with Duane Liedl
  5. Jun 11

    The Blessings and Burdens of Family Enterprise with Christin McClave

    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.

    The Blessings and Burdens of Family Enterprise with Christin McClave
  6. May 13

    Aged to Perfection: Building a Wine Empire with Gary Fisch

    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.

    Aged to Perfection: Building a Wine Empire with Gary Fisch
  7. Feb 17

    AI in Wealth Management with Leslie Norman

    In this episode of the Premier Path Podcast, COO Derek Wittjohann sits down with Leslie Norman, Chief Technology Officer at Dynasty, to discuss how technology strategy and innovation are shaping the future of independent financial advisors. Leslie shares insights from her role leading Product and Engineering, Information Technology, Cyber Security, and Technology Services across the Dynasty Network, and how her teams help advisors get the most from their technology stack. Drawing on her experience at Raymond James, where she helped design award-winning advisor tools and modernize back-office operations, Leslie offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to deliver scalable, secure, and meaningful tech solutions in wealth management. A must-listen for advisors interested in the intersection of technology, operations, and client experience. 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.

    AI in Wealth Management with Leslie Norman
  8. Jan 15

    Legacy Planning: Beyond The Balance Sheet with Richard Orlando

    On this episode of The Premier Path Podcast, host and Premier Path Wealth Partners CEO Michael Lehman sits down with Dr. Richard Orlando, founder of Legacy Capitals and one of the nation’s leading voices in legacy and multigenerational planning. For more than twenty-five years, Dr. Orlando has advised high and ultra-high-net-worth families—around both boardroom tables and kitchen tables—helping them align wealth with family values, prepare heirs, and plan across generations. Prior to founding Legacy Capitals, he led Merrill Lynch’s Global Practice Management Consulting Group for fifteen years and served in Merrill’s Family Office. Dr. Orlando has been featured in The New York Times, Bloomberg Business, and The Wall Street Journal online, and is the author of Legacy: The Hidden Keys to Optimizing Your Family Wealth Decisions. In this conversation, Michael and Richard explore what legacy truly means beyond the numbers: – How families can communicate values, not just transfer assets – What rising generations need to be prepared for – How wealth can strengthen—not strain—family relationships – Why legacy planning is an emotional, financial, and strategic process Richard’s interdisciplinary background in computer science, business, psychology, counseling, and family systems brings a rare, holistic perspective to the topic. If you’re thinking about the future of your wealth, business, or family, this episode delivers real-world insights and guidance from one of the most respected experts in the field. 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.

    Legacy Planning: Beyond The Balance Sheet with Richard Orlando
  9. 12/22/2025

    Roots of the Firm: The Premier Path Origin Story

    In our debut episode of the Premier Path Podcast, CEO Michael Lehman and COO Derek Wittjohann pull back the curtain on who we are, how we began, and the bold decision to break away from a wirehouse to build an independent firm built around client-first values. Michael and Derek share the story behind Premier Path—why independence matters, what drove the launch, the risks we took, and how our vision for the future shaped the culture we have today. This episode sets the foundation for what this podcast will be: honest dialogue, industry insight, and a transparent look into what it means to build a modern wealth management firm from the ground up. 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.

About

We’re an independent registered investment advisor helping multigenerational families, entrepreneurs, executives, and private business owners navigate today’s complex wealth challenges. Each episode turns values into action—clarifying goals, supporting passions, and preparing for tomorrow and beyond. 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.