Philanthropy as a Mirror: Building Identity Through Giving

Philanthropy as a Mirror: Building Identity Through Giving

For many families, philanthropy is where values become tangible. In this episode of our Legacy in Motion series, we explore how structured, intentional giving can strengthen family cohesion while advancing meaningful impact in the broader community. Guests Tom Thiegs and Justin Flach address how families can define a clear mission, evaluate donor-advised funds versus private foundations, and establish governance structures that align with their broader family enterprise. Key themes include: * Anchoring philanthropy in clearly defined values * Selecting structures that reflect family goals and complexity * Engaging the rising generation through meaningful participation * Using philanthropy to cultivate stewardship and emotional intelligence * Periodically reviewing giving to ensure alignment with mission For more information on Ascent, please visit ascent.usbank.com [http://ascent.usbank.com] Additional resources: https://www.usbank.com/wealth-management/financial-perspectives/financial-planning/philanthropy-and-charitable-giving/donor-advised-funds.html [https://www.usbank.com/wealth-management/financial-perspectives/financial-planning/philanthropy-and-charitable-giving/donor-advised-funds.html]  https://www.usbank.com/wealth-management/financial-perspectives/financial-planning/philanthropy-and-charitable-giving/benefits-of-private-family-foundations.html [https://www.usbank.com/wealth-management/financial-perspectives/financial-planning/philanthropy-and-charitable-giving/benefits-of-private-family-foundations.html]

Designing a Roadmap for the Rising Generation

Empowering the rising generation to steward wealth and leadership is one of the most meaningful investments a multigenerational family can make. In this second episode of our Legacy in Motion series, we explore how intentional family education supports long-term continuity, confidence, and cohesion. Guests Tom Thiegs and Justin Flach discuss why education must extend beyond financial literacy to include governance, decision-making, and clearly defined roles. They emphasize that effective preparation is not a one-time event, but an ongoing, values-driven process. Key themes include: * Aligning on shared values and purpose * Designing education around real roles and responsibilities * Using milestone-based and experiential learning * Engaging the rising generation as active participants For more information on Ascent, please visit ascent.usbank.com [http://ascent.usbank.com]

Difficult Conversations Around Wealth & Estate Planning

In the first episode of our Legacy in Motion series, we examine why conversations around wealth are often among the most challenging for families to initiate, yet essential to long-term continuity. Discussions about expectations, stewardship, and estate planning carry both emotional weight and structural complexity. Without deliberate engagement, families may find themselves navigating critical transitions without the clarity or alignment they need. Guests Tom Thiegs and Justin Flach explore the reasons these conversations are frequently deferred, the distinction between reactive and proactive planning, and how intentional preparation strengthens both governance frameworks and family relationships. Key themes include: * Beginning with incremental, ongoing dialogue rather than a single “reveal” * Prioritizing shared values before discussing financial mechanics * Approaching planning proactively rather than reactively * Leveraging trusted advisors and resources to guide complex conversations For more information on Ascent, please visit ascent.usbank.com [http://ascent.usbank.com/] Additional resources: https://www.usbank.com/content/dam/usbank/en/documents/pdfs/about-us-bank/usbank-wealth-survey-designed-report-final-2024.pdf [https://www.usbank.com/content/dam/usbank/en/documents/pdfs/about-us-bank/usbank-wealth-survey-designed-report-final-2024.pdf]