the declarations. podcast with Host Todd S. Rich

Declaration Partners
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Foundational Principles and Aspirational Insights from Thought Leaders in Investinghttps://www.declarationpartners.com/podcast

Episodes

  1. Jack Dwyer, CEO of Capital Funding Bancorp, Inc. and CFG Bank and Host Todd S. Rich, Co-Founder & Partner of Declaration Partners

    AUG 13

    Jack Dwyer, CEO of Capital Funding Bancorp, Inc. and CFG Bank and Host Todd S. Rich, Co-Founder & Partner of Declaration Partners

    In this episode of declarations., Host Todd S. Rich sits down with Jack Dwyer, CEO of Capital Funding Bancorp, Inc. and CFG Bank, to explore his journey from accountant to founder of Capital Funding Group and owner of CFG Bank. Jack shares how his early years in New Jersey, family values, and a passion for entrepreneurship shaped his approach to business and leadership. The conversation covers the evolution of his one-stop shop model for healthcare financing, his strategic expansion into banking, and how he navigated challenges like the financial crisis and COVID-19. Jack also discusses his commitment to Baltimore’s community and his innovative philanthropic efforts through the Jack and Nancy Dwyer Workforce Development Center, aimed at solving systemic poverty and creating healthcare jobs. They discuss: How Jack transitioned from accounting into healthcare lending and entrepreneurshipThe creation and growth of Capital Funding Group and its integrated financing modelStrategic decisions behind acquiring and scaling CFG BankNavigating healthcare and real estate finance through economic downturns and the pandemicPhilanthropic initiatives focused on workforce development and community revitalizationThis episode offers valuable insights for entrepreneurs, investors, and community leaders looking to build impactful businesses while giving back. Links: Declaration Partners: https://www.declarationpartners.com/ Todd Rich on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-s-rich-6a091333/ Capital Funding Group: https://www.capfundinc.com/ Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara: https://a.co/d/3MYh3pq Topics: (00:00:00) - Intro  (00:03:44) - Jack's early life and career beginnings  (00:09:11) - The birth of Capital Funding Group  (00:10:34) - Navigating the real estate recession  (00:14:05) - Understanding HUD-insured mortgages  (00:18:38) - Building a one-stop shop for healthcare financing  (00:23:07) - Acquiring CFG Bank during the financial crisis  (00:28:46) - Founding principles and family values  (00:30:38) - Navigating the healthcare sector during COVID-19  (00:34:06) - Innovative financial strategies during the pandemic  (00:36:51) - Current landscape and future goals  (00:42:06) - Advice for entrepreneurs  (00:45:16) - Community and philanthropy efforts  (00:47:45) - Workforce development and personal fulfillment  (00:53:12) - Closing thoughts and reflections

    59 min
  2. Fred Klein, Senior Counsel at DLA Piper and Host Todd S. Rich, Co-Founder & Partner of Declaration Partners

    JUL 17

    Fred Klein, Senior Counsel at DLA Piper and Host Todd S. Rich, Co-Founder & Partner of Declaration Partners

    In this episode of declarations., Host Todd S. Rich sits down with Fred Klein for a deeply personal and wide-ranging conversation about law, legacy, and leadership. Fred reflects on a distinguished legal career shaped by meaningful mentorship, rigorous standards, and his enduring commitment to human connection. From his early influences at Mercersburg Academy to his pivotal role in Washington D.C.'s real estate legal landscape, Fred shares stories that illuminate how relationships, empathy, and trust have defined his approach to law and life. The episode also explores Fred’s reflections on artificial intelligence, his passion for teaching, and the values that guide his ongoing work in philanthropy and education. They discuss: Why Fred’s guiding principle is to make all human interactions meaningfulHis formative experiences at Mercersburg Academy and how they shaped his identityThe unlikely moment that launched his real estate law careerHow he builds enduring client relationships across private equity, family offices, and public companiesWhy AI and data transparency are opportunities—not threats—to the legal industryHis belief that reputation, handwritten notes, and generosity still matter in a tech-driven worldHow he’s approaching his “non-retirement” through teaching, board work, and community serviceA thoughtful listen for anyone interested in leadership, mentorship, and the human side of high-stakes law and investing. Links: Declaration Partners - https://www.declarationpartners.com/podcast Be a Work in Progress: And Other Things I'd Like to Tell My Younger Self by John Cena: https://a.co/d/hgvUqkd From Strength to Strength: Finding Success, Happiness, and Deep Purpose in the Second Half of Life by Arthur C. Brooks: https://a.co/d/dDKWZAF The Happiness Advantage: How a Positive Brain Fuels Success in Work and Life by Shawn Achor: https://a.co/d/5RK6q61  (00:00:00) - Intro  (00:02:26) - Fred's declaration: Making human interactions meaningful  (00:05:49) - Fred's early life and education  (00:08:51) - Journey into law and real estate  (00:17:49) - Partnerships and career growth  (00:21:12) - Diverse clientele and tailored advice  (00:23:31) - Investor expectations and risk management  (00:25:38) - Adapting to real estate market changes  (00:26:14) - The role of artificial intelligence in real estate  (00:29:31) - The importance of relationships in business  (00:32:32) - Expressing gratitude and personal growth  (00:37:22) - Philanthropy and future plans  (00:41:40) - Books and advice for personal development  (00:45:09) - Closing remarks and disclaimers

    48 min
  3. Daniel Mueller & Les Baquiran - Co-Founders of Alpine Capital Advisors

    JUN 11

    Daniel Mueller & Les Baquiran - Co-Founders of Alpine Capital Advisors

    In this episode of Declarations, host Todd Rich sits down with Dan Mueller and Les Baquiran, co-founders of Alpine Capital Advisors, to explore their unique paths from immigrant family upbringings to building a global placement and advisory firm. Dan and Les share how personal values like humility, resourcefulness, and long-term thinking have shaped Alpine’s cross-border business model. The conversation dives deep into the nuances of fundraising across geographies, the shifting behaviors of institutional and family office investors, and how Alpine distinguishes itself by building ecosystems of trust, intelligence, and connectivity—not just transactions. From the early days in Chile and New York to current insights on global capital flows, Dan and Les provide a thoughtful look at investing in today’s complex landscape. They discuss: How their immigrant roots and early career experiences influenced Alpine’s scrappy, globally-minded DNAWhy Latin American investors are increasingly allocating capital to developed markets, especially in the U.S.The shift from transactional capital raising to long-term ecosystem building through dynamic intelligence and trusted networksWhat’s changing for allocators globally—including signs of renewed interest in Asia, Europe, and non-traditional strategiesAdvice for managers on navigating long fundraising cycles and earning trust in a crowded, competitive marketThis is an insightful episode for anyone navigating the evolving intersection of global capital, private markets, and long-term relationship building. Links: Alpine Capital Advisors - https://alpineca.com/ Dan Mueller on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/damueller1/ Les Baquiran on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/les-baquiran-0442373/ Declaration Partners - https://www.declarationpartners.com/ Shoe Dog by Phil Knight - https://a.co/d/3Qhxrq5 Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell - https://a.co/d/6ME3K4J Topics: (00:00:00) - Intro (00:02:04) - Foundations and mission of Alpine Capital Advisors (00:03:16) - Personal declarations and backgrounds (00:03:45) - Immigrant experiences and early influences (00:07:23) - Career beginnings and financial crises (00:09:34) - Journey into investment and finance (00:15:55) - Founding Alpine Capital Advisors (00:17:37) - Navigating Latin American markets (00:20:03) - Building trust and unique ecosystems (00:26:41) - Challenges and strategies in fundraising (00:29:43) - Navigating the new investment landscape (00:30:45) - Global evolution of investment trends (00:32:56) - Shifting investor sentiments in Asia and Europe (00:34:54) - Family offices vs. institutional investors (00:37:14) - Current investment strategies and market shifts (00:46:49) - Challenges and advice for new managers (00:50:44) - Extracurricular activities and personal insights (00:53:48) - Closing thoughts and reflections

    1 hr
  4. Michael Glosserman, Member of the Declaration RE Advisory Board and Trustee at JBG Smith

    MAY 14

    Michael Glosserman, Member of the Declaration RE Advisory Board and Trustee at JBG Smith

    In this episode of the declarations. podcast, Host Todd S. Rich welcomes Michael Glosserman, longtime real estate executive, member of Declaration's Real Estate Advisory Board and Trustee of JBG Smith, for a wide-ranging conversation about career evolution, institutional alignment, and the long-term view required to build something enduring. From growing up in a small Texas town to co-leading one of the most prominent real estate firms in Washington, DC, Michael shares pivotal lessons from his 28 years at JBG, his early influences at The Rouse Company, and the many market cycles he’s weathered across five decades in real estate. He reflects on how capital structures, team development, and investor relationships shaped JBG’s growth—from individual deal-making to discretionary funds, and eventually to the public markets through JBG Smith. They also discuss: The impact of long-term partnerships and alignment with investorsHow JBG navigated downturns, scaled its team, and transitioned to a public REITThe firm’s role in urban developmentLessons from working closely with top-tier institutional capitalThoughts on the current challenges facing the DC marketWhy investing in high-growth, business-friendly markets may hold more opportunity todayHis personal philosophy on family, giving back, and living in the momentThis episode offers hard-won insight from a leader who helped shape a major firm and now brings the clarity of hindsight to what it means to grow thoughtfully, lead with humility, and stay present through it all. Links: Todd S. Rich on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-s-rich-6a091333/ Declaration Partners LP - https://www.declarationpartners.com/ Too Soon Old, Too Late Smart: https://a.co/d/awax8tS Topics: (00:00:00) - Intro   (00:01:24) - Introducing Michael Glosserman  (00:04:18) - Michael's Early Life in Lockhart, Texas   (00:09:02) - From Texas to Wharton: Michael's Educational Journey   (00:13:08) - Michael’s early career  (00:20:21) - Joining JBG (00:27:28) - Securing Yale as an Investor   (00:28:46) - Lessons from Yale's Investment Approach   (00:31:25) - JBG's Growth and Transition to Public Company   (00:32:31) - Navigating the 2008 Financial Crisis   (00:34:50) - Challenges and Strategies in Real Estate Investment   (00:40:07) - Reflections on Washington DC's Real Estate Market   (00:50:13) - Family and Philanthropy   (00:53:40) - Closing Thoughts and Advice

    59 min
  5. Sean Plummer, Founder of Haystack Capital Partners

    APR 17

    Sean Plummer, Founder of Haystack Capital Partners

    In this episode of declarations., host Todd S. Rich sits down with Sean Plummer, founder of Haystack Capital Partners, for a thoughtful conversation on how high-net-worth families invest differently from institutions—and why that difference matters. With deep experience from his time at Fidelity Family Office Services and now as a trusted advisor to over 160 family offices, Sean shares how he's built a business around relationships, alignment, and thoughtful capital allocation. Sean reflects on how his small-town upbringing in Davis, California, shaped his worldview, and how a desire to listen and learn from everyone—regardless of background—has guided his career. The conversation explores the evolution of family office investing, the rise of direct deals, and how Haystack connects families with unique opportunities that align with their expertise and values. Topics include: The key differences between family offices and institutional investorsWhy alignment, trust, and EQ are more important than IRR in the family office worldHow Haystack helps match capital with operating families and niche fund managersThe impact of generational transitions and how G2 is reshaping the future of wealthWhy the next frontier in family capital may lie in deeper networks, shared values, and long-term partnershipsThis episode offers a rare inside look at how some of the world’s wealthiest families think about investing—not just for returns, but for relationships, legacy, and long-term impact. Links: Learn more about Declaration. here Setting the Table by Danny Meyer Topics: (00:00:00) - Intro   (00:02:38) - Sean’s Declaration   (00:03:37) - Sean’s upbringing and early career   (00:10:46) - Transitioning into family office services   (00:15:51) - Forming Haystack   (00:20:40) - Investing with families vs. Institutions   (00:24:48) - Learnings from working with Family Offices   (00:26:58) - Characteristics families seek when making an investment or selecting a fund manager, and investing themes   (00:35:10) - What are families investing in today?   (00:37:39) - Cultivating and maintaining family office relationships   (00:44:28) - Trends to watch for over the next decade   (00:48:13) - Trends that emerge in the transfer of power within families   (00:50:33) - Philanthropy   (00:51:42) - Influential books   (00:53:29) - Most meaningful advice   (00:54:49) - How Sean pursues happiness

    58 min
  6. Jon Qvistgaard=Petersen, President of Marlin Exploration and Petersen Private Equity

    MAR 12

    Jon Qvistgaard=Petersen, President of Marlin Exploration and Petersen Private Equity

    In this episode of Declarations, host Todd S. Rich sits down with Jon Qvistgaard=Peterson, a seasoned entrepreneur and investor with deep roots in oil and gas, private equity, and automotive retail. From his family’s pioneering ventures in the energy sector to building Louisiana’s largest Honda dealership, Jon shares the philosophies that have guided his career and personal life. The conversation explores: Lessons in leadership and resilience from his grandfather, a Danish immigrant who founded Blue Plate FoodsNavigating risk in oil and gas exploration and how the industry has evolvedBuilding a business in automotive retail and the contrast between the energy and car industriesThe importance of teamwork and long-term thinking in both business and lifeHis deep commitment to philanthropy, including his family’s contributions to children’s healthcare in LouisianaJon also reflects on his personal mantra—"You must participate in life"—emphasizing the value of curiosity, engagement, and giving back. Whether you’re interested in investing, business operations, or simply learning from a life well-lived, this episode is filled with wisdom from an operator who has truly seen it all. Links: Learn more about Declaration. here The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway Endurance: Shackelton's Incredible Voyage by Alfred Lansing Jeff Shaara Books Topics: (00:00:00) - Intro (00:02:36) - Jon’s Declaration (00:03:25) - The Q=Petersen Family history (00:08:06) - Jon’s career in Oil & Gas and Auto (00:19:56) - How to pull your weight in the American Economy (00:22:32) - Participate in Life (00:25:30) - The difference between investors and operators (00:27:42) - Operating a business as a family steward (00:30:07) - Jon’s philanthropy (00:32:50) - Influential books (00:33:51) - The best advice Jon’s received (00:34:51) - Jon’s pursuit of happiness

    38 min
  7. Marco Peschiera, CEO of Grupo Romero (GRIO/GRAM) and Host Todd S. Rich, Co-Founder & Partner of Declaration Partners

    FEB 14

    Marco Peschiera, CEO of Grupo Romero (GRIO/GRAM) and Host Todd S. Rich, Co-Founder & Partner of Declaration Partners

    Host Todd S. Rich speaks with Marco Peschiera of Grupo Romero (GRIO / GRAM) to discuss the lessons he learned from his grandfather and the long-term approach he takes to investing on behalf of a multi-generational family office.  https://www.declarationpartners.com/podcast Link to The Warren Buffett Way by Robert G. Hagstrom: https://a.co/d/a7ziNx5.

    45 min
  8. Kari Firestone, Co-Founder & Chair Emerita of Aureus Asset Management and Host Todd S. Rich, Co-Founder & Partner of Declaration Partners

    JAN 16

    Kari Firestone, Co-Founder & Chair Emerita of Aureus Asset Management and Host Todd S. Rich, Co-Founder & Partner of Declaration Partners

    Kari Firestone of Aureus Asset Management sits with Host Todd S. Rich on the declarations. podcast to discuss the four R’s of risk as discussed in her book Even the Odds.  https://www.declarationpartners.com/podcast Even the Odds: Sensible Risk-Taking in Business, Investing, and Life by Karen Firestone: https://a.co/d/9WcZ9V7 Lush Life by Richard Price: https://a.co/d/6qtx57j

    52 min
  9. Robert Picard, Managing Director and Head of Alternative Investments at Hightower Advisors and Host Todd S. Rich, Co-Founder & Partner of Declaration Partners

    12/12/2024

    Robert Picard, Managing Director and Head of Alternative Investments at Hightower Advisors and Host Todd S. Rich, Co-Founder & Partner of Declaration Partners

    Robert Picard, Managing Director and Head of Alternative Investments at Hightower Advisors talks with Host Todd S. Rich about family-oriented investing with an institutional bar for quality, the Swiss Army, and more from a career investing in private markets.  https://www.declarationpartners.com/podcast

    50 min
  10. Dave Roux, Co-Founder & Chairman of BayPine and formerly of Silver Lake and Host Todd S. Rich, Co-Founder and Partner of Declaration Partners

    11/14/2024

    Dave Roux, Co-Founder & Chairman of BayPine and formerly of Silver Lake and Host Todd S. Rich, Co-Founder and Partner of Declaration Partners

    Todd S. Rich, Co-Founder and Partner of Declaration Partners, welcomes Dave Roux, Co-Founder & Chairman of BayPine and formerly of Silver Lake. Dave provides his unique and authoritative perspective on the historical relationship between private equity and technology. Dave also tells us why he always cites The Odyssey when asked about what makes him happiest. https://www.declarationpartners.com/podcast

    56 min
  11. Bennett Goodman, Executive Chairman of Hunter Point Capital and formerly of Blackstone/GSO and Host Todd S. Rich, Co-Founder and Partner of Declaration Partners

    10/20/2024

    Bennett Goodman, Executive Chairman of Hunter Point Capital and formerly of Blackstone/GSO and Host Todd S. Rich, Co-Founder and Partner of Declaration Partners

    Bennett Goodman, Executive Chairman of Hunter Point Capital and formerly of Blackstone/GSO discusses the lessons he learned from his uncle: The three H's of hard work, honesty, and humility in this episode of the declarations. podcast with Host Todd S. Rich, Co-Founder and Partners of Declaration Partners. https://www.declarationpartners.com/podcast

    54 min
  12. David M. Rubenstein, Co-Founder and Co-Chairman of The Carlyle Group and principal owner of the Baltimore Orioles and Host Todd S. Rich, Co-Founder and Partner of Declaration Partners

    09/15/2024

    David M. Rubenstein, Co-Founder and Co-Chairman of The Carlyle Group and principal owner of the Baltimore Orioles and Host Todd S. Rich, Co-Founder and Partner of Declaration Partners

    David M. Rubenstein, Co-Founder and Co-Chairman of The Carlyle Group and principal owner of the Baltimore Orioles discusses investing and happiness on inaugural declarations. podcast with Host Todd S. Rich, Co-Founder and Partner of Declaration Partners. https://www.declarationpartners.com/podcast

    44 min
  • 12 Episodes

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Foundational Principles and Aspirational Insights from Thought Leaders in Investinghttps://www.declarationpartners.com/podcast

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