What is a concierge? Merriam-Webster defines it as “a person or service that provides assistance with personal business (such as making travel arrangements, scheduling appointments, or running errands).” We’ve all heard of a concierge at a hotel, or perhaps even a concierge doctor – but you’ve probably wondered, is a dedicated concierge reserved for only the ultra-wealthy?

Insert our official Client Concierge – Buddy Reisinger.

For as long as we’ve known Buddy Reisinger, we’ve observed him juggling an eclectic mix of questions from clients, friends, and family. The queries range from “any idea who the best plantar fasciitis doctor is in Saint Louis?” to “I’m heading to Santa Barbara and want to impress my in-laws – where do we get dinner?” to “Which organization will benefit most from my charitable gift?” to “Which airport should I fly into when I go to Cape Cod?”.

It seems evident to us, but we want you to know that we’ve crowned Buddy the official HIG Concierge (his new title). As a world traveler, adventure seeker, family man, and lifelong learner, Buddy always has the answer, and if he doesn’t – he sure as heck knows someone who does!

If you’ve been a client for a while now – chances are you know Buddy. If you’re new to the firm or want to learn more about him, please click here.

We encourage you to reach out to Buddy with your strangest request. He’s up for the challenge.

When we know better, do we do better? Why are there so many areas in our lives where we need reminders and prodding to make things happen that we already know we should…or shouldn’t…do? In this episode, host Matt Hall is joined by bestselling author Dr. Daniel Crosby who brings to life the “knowing-doing gap,” the three Es for changing our behavior, and why constant praise is not the best way to raise successful children. Listen on Apple or click below.

We know that some of our regular readers prefer reading rather than listening (or enjoy both). We wanted to remind you that there is an accompanying written transcript of every podcast. You can get the Dr. Crosby podcast here.

What do Britney Spears, Michael Jackson, Prince, and Tony Hsieh (Zappos!) all have in common? And no – this is not the start of a bad joke.

Each of these individuals caught our attention recently for the headlines they (or their estates) made. While we usually encourage you to “tune out the noise” and “ignore the talking heads,” sometimes celebrity gossip headlines contain valuable lessons…usually of what not to do.

The combined estates of Spears, Jackson, Prince, and Hsieh are worth nearly $2 billion. An amazing sum! Yet all of this money is trapped in battles (legal or otherwise) to distribute or manage assets. Our crew of celebs could have avoided this pain. Unfortunately, when a clear plan is not in place, unwinding disputed estates can involve paying lots of pernicious fees. A reliable team of fiduciary advisors and a solid, up-to-date plan can minimize disputes, ease the process, and reduce unnecessary costs to the estate. 

If my goal is to preserve assets for my beneficiaries or charitable causes, instead of getting stuck in a prolonged legal battle, what should I do?

It’s dramatically easier, less expensive, and simpler to pay your advisory team in advance rather than have them clean up the mess afterward.

That’s why Hill gets involved, sooner rather than later, in estate planning with our clients. Whether you’re just starting or need a comprehensive review and update of an existing plan, set up a call or meeting with us – click here. Your future self, and your kids, will thank you.