Listen Now
Listen On
Episode Notes
How do you make sure your family doesn’t just inherit your money but your mindset, your mission, and your meaning too?
In this episode of Buried in Work, Denise McCLain, Director at Hirtle Callaghan and one of the country’s leading experts on multigenerational wealth, estate planning, and philanthropy, talks about how families can pass down more than just assets. She dives into the power of stewardship, the emotional weight of family wealth, and why clear communication and shared values are essential to preserving legacy across generations.
Denise also breaks down the pros and cons of donor-advised funds vs. private foundations, and why teaching kids about money early is key to building financial literacy, purpose, and a lasting legacy.
Whether you're just starting to think about your estate plan or managing ultra high net worth assets, this episode is filled with insight into legacy planning, family dynamics, and how to ensure your family inherits your values, not just your wealth.
Key Takeaways
- Wealth can be a burden—unless it’s grounded in purpose.
- Donor-advised funds and private foundations are tools, but values are the foundation.
- Start teaching kids about money early—and often.
- Stewardship and communication are the keys to multigenerational success.
- Writing a letter of wishes may be the most powerful thing you leave behind.
Show Links
- Visit Hirtle Callaghan's Website: https://www.hirtlecallaghan.com/
- Email Denise at dmclainertle.com
About Denise McCLain
Denise McCLain is the Director at Hirtle Callaghan, a $20.5 billion outsourced chief investment officer firm. With more than 26 years of experience in legal and financial advisory services, Denise is a nationally recognized expert in multigenerational wealth transfer, estate planning, and philanthropy strategy.
Her career began in private law practice, specializing in estate planning, before transitioning into wealth management—where she now helps ultra-high-net-worth families align their financial assets with their family values. Denise specializes in donor-advised funds, private foundations, and guiding families through the complexities of legacy planning.
Passionate about financial education across generations, Denise is also deeply involved in Arizona’s philanthropic and estate planning communities, serving on the boards of several educational and charitable institutions.
