Get Your House In Order

Elke Rubach

As a financial advisor to some of the world's most successful individuals, I've found that the greatest challenge isn't generating higher returns—it's ensuring their financial and estate affairs are properly structured and protected. Whether it's tax planning, estate strategy, or navigating complex family dynamics, these are the issues that can quietly unravel wealth if left unchecked.

Each week on Get Your House in Order, I share best practices not only for smart investing but—more critically—for safeguarding your wealth. You'll gain actionable tools, expert insights, and conversations with some of the world's foremost authorities on building and preserving financial legacies.

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24 episodes
Avg 46 min
English

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#56
September 22 · 50 min
The Culture You Think You Have | #56
What if the culture you think you've built isn't the culture your people are actually experiencing? In this thought-provoking conversation, Elke Rubach sits down with Janet Livingstone, founder of Culture is Key, to explore what really happens when an organization—or a family—outgrows the culture that once worked. Drawing on Janet's experience working across five continents and with global organizations, they unpack the connection between culture, trust, self-awareness, communication, and leadership—and why a healthy culture requires more than values written on a wall. In this episode, you'll discover: ● How to tell the difference between loyalty and conformity ● The warning signs that a culture is quietly deteriorating ● Why founders must learn to let go, delegate, and build trust instead of creating clones of themselves ● How cultural differences can completely change the way people communicate, make decisions, and lead ● Three questions leaders can ask to uncover the culture they've actually created Janet also shares a powerful reminder: culture is transferred through generations, organizations, and relationships—and changing it requires becoming more aware of what we bring to the room ourselves. Your culture is already being created every day. The question is: Are you creating it intentionally? Connect with Janet Livingstone: Website: https://www.cultureiskey.coach/ Connect with Elke Rubach Website: https://www.elkerubach.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elkerubach/
#55
September 15 · 48 min
The Power of Saying Less with Greg Woodward | #55
What if talking less could make people trust you more? Greg Woodward, founder of Woodward Strategies, joins Elke to unpack the psychology behind persuasion, communication, and trust. From the first few seconds of a conversation to the uncomfortable power of silence, Greg explains why successful people often overwhelm others with too much information, how expertise can become noise, and why curiosity is more powerful than explanation. They explore: • Why people resist when they feel someone is trying to influence them • How clarity and restraint can transform a conversation • Why silence can communicate confidence, empathy, and trust • The importance of being willing to walk away from a sale • How sharing the hard parts of success can shape the next generation Whether you're building a business, leading a team, managing wealth, or simply trying to communicate better, this conversation is a reminder that more information does not always lead to better decisions. Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is say less, listen more, and give people the space to think.
#54
September 1 · 45 min
What If You're Successful but Not Alive? with AJ Jones | #54
What if nothing is technically wrong with your life—but something inside you knows it no longer fits? In this episode of Get Your House in Order, Elke Rubach sits down with AJ Jones, founder of More, and two-time survivor of widow-maker heart attacks, to explore the uncomfortable space between success and aliveness. After his first heart attack, AJ knew he needed to change—but fear, identity, financial security, and the comfort of what he already knew eventually pulled him back into the same world. It took a second wake-up call for him to fully confront what his life was telling him. Together, Elke and AJ explore: ● "Numb success" — what happens when achievement is high but aliveness is low. ● Why successful people postpone change: identity, golden handcuffs, fear, lifestyle expectations, and the difficulty of stepping away from a life that looks perfect from the outside. ● How to reinvent yourself without blowing up your life: AJ argues for intentional change, not recklessness, and encourages people to examine what no longer fits before making major moves. ● The five-year question: Will I be happy if this is my life in five years? If the answer is no, it may be time to start laying the foundation for change. AJ also shares a simple exercise for anyone feeling stuck: "I want..." Write down what you truly want—without caveats, expectations, or excuses—and then look for the patterns. Sometimes clarity starts with giving yourself permission to admit what you actually want. You don't need to wait for a crisis to change your life. The real courage may be having the difficult conversations, questioning your definition of success, and making intentional choices while you still have the luxury of choosing. Connect with AJ Jones Website: https://www.bemorealigned.com/ Connect with Elke Rubach Website: https://www.elkerubach.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elkerubach/
#53
August 25 · 41 min
Before You Move, Get Your House in Order with Lauren Cohen | #53
In this episode of Get Your House in Order, Elke Rubach sits down with Lauren Cohen, an immigration lawyer, realtor, entrepreneur, and founder of Investing Across Borders, to unpack the complexities of moving, investing, and building a life across borders. Lauren explains why buying a home, changing residency, expanding a business, or pursuing a visa can trigger consequences across your taxes, investments, estate plan, business, and—most importantly—your family. Together, Elke and Lauren explore: Why your life plan should come before your financial plan—and why your situation can't be modeled on what worked for a friend. The hidden ripple effects of cross-border decisions, from property ownership and taxes to visas, business structures, estate planning, and family dynamics. Why coordination matters as much as expertise: having great lawyers, accountants, advisors, and other professionals isn't enough if no one is looking at how all the pieces fit together. How creating optionality and a roadmap can give families the flexibility to explore opportunities without locking themselves into a decision they may later regret. This conversation is a powerful reminder that a major move isn't just a transaction—it's a life decision. Before you buy the house, move the money, relocate the business, or pack the boxes, start with a plan. Connect with Lauren Cohen: Website: https://www.eb5investors.com/directories/immigration-attorneys/lauren-cohen/ Connect with Elke Rubach Website: https://www.elkerubach.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elkerubach/
#52
August 11 · 40 min
Fight Hate With Facts with Michelle Dor | #52
What if the loudest voices aren't the most informed? In this episode, host Elke Rubach sits down with Michelle Dor to explore how education—not outrage—is the most powerful tool we have to combat hate. Drawing from her journey from educator to nonprofit leader, Michelle shares how a shift in values led her to Stand With Us Canada and a mission grounded in critical thinking, truth, and meaningful dialogue. Together, they unpack the dangers of misinformation, the impact of social media on belief systems, and why teaching people how to think—not what to think—is more important than ever. In this episode, you'll learn: ● Why critical thinking is the foundation for fighting hate ● How misinformation spreads—and how to challenge it ● The role of education in raising curious, informed humans If you're ready to question what you see, think deeper, and engage in more meaningful conversations—this episode will challenge and inspire you. Connect with Michelle Dor: Stand With us: https://standwithus.com/ Connect with Elke Rubach Website: https://www.elkerubach.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elkerubach/
#51
August 4 · 45 min
More Than Money: Advice That Matters with Amanda Cassar | #51
What if financial planning has nothing to do with money—and everything to do with life? In this episode, host Elke Rubach sits down with global advisor Amanda Cassar to unpack what truly defines meaningful financial advice. From unexpectedly "falling into" the profession to becoming a trusted guide for families across life's biggest transitions, Amanda shares how the. real work goes far beyond investments—into trust, relationships, and human understanding. Together, they explore how great advisors help people navigate uncertainty, align their values, and build lives—not just portfolios. Key Takeaways: Why relationships always come before transactions The shift from product-focused to purpose-driven advice How financial planning creates clarity, confidence, and freedom If you've ever wondered what truly makes financial advice impactful, this conversation will change how you see the industry—and your own decisions. 🎧 Tune in and discover what it really means to "get your house in order." Connect with the Guest Amanda Cassar: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandacassar/ Connect with Elke Rubach Website: https://www.elkerubach.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elkerubach/
#50
July 28 · 49 min
The Power of Passport Optionality with Dan Brotman and Marko Peck | #50
What if true wealth isn't money—but freedom of choice? In this episode, host Elke Rubach sits down with global mobility experts Dan Brotman and Marko Peck to unpack the evolving definition of wealth in today's unpredictable world. Drawing from decades of experience advising international families, they reveal why citizenship, residency, and geographic flexibility are becoming essential tools for protecting both lifestyle and legacy. From diversifying passports like investment portfolios to navigating political and economic uncertainty, this conversation challenges conventional thinking about financial planning—and expands it into something far more powerful. Key Takeaways: Why "optionality" is the new cornerstone of modern wealth How second citizenships and residencies act as risk management tools The growing importance of global mobility in uncertain times If your world changed overnight, would you have the freedom to choose what comes next? This episode invites you to rethink what it really means to be secure—and to start building a life without borders. Connect with Dan Brotman and Marko Peck Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/twoguysfromnowhere/ Connect with Elke Rubach Website: https://www.elkerubach.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elkerubach/
#49
July 21 · 33 min
Say It Anyway | #49
What if the only thing standing between you and success is a conversation you're avoiding? In this episode of Get Your House in Order, host Elke Rubach sits down with sales strategist and communication expert Klyn Elsbury, whose life story is as powerful as the message she teaches. Born with cystic fibrosis and once facing life-threatening odds, Klyn defied expectations—negotiating not just in business, but for her own survival—and ultimately rebuilt her life from disability to becoming a leading voice in sales and human connection. Together, they unpack why sales isn't about pressure or persuasion—it's about clarity, trust, and the courage to show up authentically. Klyn shares how her philosophy of "Sell the Dream" helps individuals and organizations break through hesitation and have the conversations that truly drive results. In This Episode: Why hesitation—not skill—is the biggest barrier to success How authentic conversations outperform scripts and sales tactics The mindset shift that turns fear into action and opportunity Your life and your business don't change when you learn more tactics—they change the moment you decide to speak, act, and show up differently. Because the conversation you're avoiding might be the one that changes everything. Connect with Klyn Elsbury Website: https://klynelsbury.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/klynelsbury/ Connect with Elke Rubach Website: https://www.elkerubach.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elkerubach/
#48
July 14 · 48 min
Whose Financial Plan Are You Living? | #48
What if the biggest mistake in your financial plan is that it was designed for someone else's life? In this episode of Get Your House in Order, host Elke Rubach welcomes Scott Barnes, Certified Financial Planner and Senior Advisor to Childfree Trust, for a thoughtful conversation about why traditional financial planning often overlooks one of the fastest-growing demographics: adults who are child-free. Together, they explore how meaningful financial planning begins with understanding your values, goals, and vision—not outdated assumptions about marriage, children, and legacy. Whether you've chosen not to have children, life took you on a different path, or you're simply questioning conventional financial advice, this episode offers practical guidance on creating a plan that's as unique as your life. In This Episode: Why financial planning should start with your life—not a template The unique planning needs of child-free individuals and couples How to prepare for retirement, healthcare, and long-term care without relying on children The importance of powers of attorney, estate planning, and intentional decision-making Why great advisors ask better questions instead of making assumptions Your financial future shouldn't be built on society's expectations—it should reflect your own values, priorities, and definition of success. Because the best financial plan isn't the one everyone else follows—it's the one that's built for you. Connect with Scott Barnes LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-barnes-cfp/ Childfree Wealth: https://childfreewealth.com Connect with Elke Rubach Website: https://www.elkerubach.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elkerubach/
#40
July 7 · 49 min
You're Not Bad at Communication with Ann Keil Dux | #47
What if your communication problem isn't about what you're saying—but about not being fully connected to yourself? In this episode of Get Your House in Order, host Elke Rubach sits down with executive presence coach and strategic communication advisor Ann Keil Dux to explore why great communicators aren't necessarily the loudest people in the room. Drawing from her experience as a television journalist and leadership coach, Ann shares how self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and intentional listening can completely change the way we show up in conversations. Together, they unpack why so many professionals feel stuck at 75% of their potential and how reconnecting with your "why" can unlock confidence, clarity, and trust. In This Episode: Why communication starts with listening, not speaking The simple techniques that help you stay calm and clear under pressure How emotional intelligence can elevate your leadership and relationships Why understanding your audience matters more than sounding smart The secret to showing up as the 100% version of yourself The way we communicate shapes our careers, our families, and our relationships. When we learn to understand ourselves better, we become better at helping others feel seen, heard, and understood. Because sometimes the most powerful message you can share is the one that finally sounds like you. Connect with Ann Keil Dux Website: https://www.annkeildux.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annkeildux/ Connect with Elke Rubach Website: https://www.elkerubach.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elkerubach/
#46
June 30 · 49 min
What If Wealth Isn't About Money? | #46
What if the life you're chasing isn't the life you actually want? In this episode of Get Your House in Order, host Elke Rubach sits down with financial strategist and entrepreneur Mary Lyons, The Wealth Woman, to challenge everything we've been taught about money, success, and happiness. From breaking free of scarcity mindsets to redefining what abundance really means, Mary shares why wealth should be a tool for freedom—not a scorecard for achievement. Together, they explore how our money stories shape our decisions, why comparing ourselves to others is a losing game, and how intentional financial planning can help create a life that's rich in purpose, joy, and meaningful experiences. In This Episode: Why more money doesn't automatically create more happiness The difference between spending to impress and spending to enrich your life How to align your finances with your values and dreams The conversations every couple should have about money Why true wealth is about freedom, not accumulation At the end of the day, money is just a tool. The real question is: What kind of life are you building with it? Connect with Mary Lyons Website: https://thewealthwoman.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marylyonswealthwoman/ Instagram: @thewealthwoman Host: Elke Rubach rubachwealth.com | LinkedIn: Elke Rubach
June 16 · 1 hr 2 min
Wealth With Purpose, Not Performance | #45
What if chasing higher returns is actually costing you the life you want? In this episode, host Elke Rubach sits down with Gary Preisser, Managing Partner of Stonebrier Wealth Advisors, to challenge one of the biggest myths in wealth management—that success is about picking the right investments. Instead, Gary shares a powerful shift: treating money not as a scorecard, but as a tool designed to serve a specific purpose. Together, they explore how clarity, intention, and better questions can transform not just your portfolio—but your entire life. From redefining financial success to introducing frameworks like the "cash flow clock," Gary explains how aligning wealth with purpose, timing, and long-term stewardship can simplify decision-making and create deeper meaning. Key Takeaways: Why "assets are not trophies"—and what they should be instead The costly mistake of focusing on performance over purpose How asking better questions leads to clearer, more effective financial strategies This conversation will change the way you think about money—and what it's really meant to do for you. Connect with Gary Preisser: https://www.stonebriarwealthadvisors.com/team/gary-preisser Host: Elke Rubach rubachwealth.com | LinkedIn: Elke Rubach
#44
May 12 · 34 min
Get Your House in Order First | #44
What if the key to better business... is fixing yourself first? In this episode, Elke Rubach sits down with entrepreneur and real estate professional James Milonas to explore the deeper meaning behind "getting your house in order." From early lessons in discipline and work ethic to building a people-first business, James shares how intentional living, authentic connection, and internal clarity shape lasting success—especially under pressure. This conversation goes beyond strategy and into the mindset, habits, and character required to lead well in uncertain times—reminding us that what's happening internally always shows up externally. Key takeaways: Why leadership starts with self-discipline, health, and mental clarity The power of authentic human connection in a sales-driven world How your internal state directly reflects in your environment and results If you're building something meaningful—or trying to hold it together when things feel uncertain—this episode will challenge you to start from within. Because before you fix the business... you have to fix the foundation. Connect with James Milonas: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesmilonas Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamesmilonas Host: Elke Rubach rubachwealth.com | LinkedIn: Elke Rubach
#43
May 5 · 41 min
Giving with Purpose, Not Just Wealth with Robin Turack | #43
What if true impact isn't about how much you give—but how intentionally you give it? In this episode, host Elke Rubach sits down with philanthropic strategist Robin Turack to explore how giving evolves from a personal passion into a purposeful legacy. With over 25 years of experience across major institutions and community initiatives, Robin shares how anyone—not just the ultra-wealthy—can approach philanthropy with clarity, structure, and lasting impact. From her early days seeking connection through charity work to advising donors on strategic giving, her journey reveals the deeper meaning behind contribution. Key Takeaways: Philanthropy is for everyone: You don't need millions—just intention and strategy From wealth to impact: A mindset shift that transforms giving into legacy Connection drives contribution: Community and shared purpose are at the heart of meaningful philanthropy When you align your values with your actions, giving becomes more than generosity—it becomes a powerful way to shape the world around you. Start where you are, give with purpose, and watch the ripple effect unfold. Connect: Guest: Robin Turack https://peartreecanada.com/team/robin-turack/ 👤 Host: Elke Rubach rubachwealth.com | LinkedIn: Elke Rubach
#42
April 28 · 45 min
Why Success Still Feels Off with Sarah Draper | #42
You can have everything—and still feel like something's missing. In this episode, host Elke Rubach sits down with leadership strategist Sarah Draper, founder of Leading Well Strategies, to explore why high performers often feel stuck despite outwardnsuccess. Drawing from her work with executives and leadership teams, Sarah shares how years of achievement can quietly lead to misalignment, burnout, and a loss of personal clarity—especially during major life transitions. Together, they unpack how success without self-awareness can create invisible gaps—and what it really takes to realign your life and leadership from the inside out. Key takeaways: Why high achievers lose themselves in the pursuit of success The hidden cost of living in "survival mode" for too long How transitions (career, family, retirement) reveal deeper misalignment If you've ever wondered why success doesn't feel the way you thought it would—this conversation will help you reconnect with what truly matters. Connect with the guest: Sarah Draper – https://www.leadingwellstrategies.com/meet-sarah 👤 Host: Elke Rubach rubachwealth.com | LinkedIn: Elke Rubach
#41
April 14 · 51 min
The Patterns Running Your Life | #41
What if your biggest life decisions aren't conscious at all? In this episode, host Elke Rubach sits down with Carla Royal to explore the hidden emotional and somatic patterns that shape how we show up in relationships, money, and major life choices. Drawing on her work in somatic therapy, Carla reveals how the body stores past experiences—and how those unconscious imprints quietly drive our behaviors, reactions, and decisions. Together, they unpack why so many people feel stuck in repeating cycles, even when they "know better," and what it actually takes to break free and build a life that feels aligned from the inside out. Key Takeaways: How unconscious patterns influence relationships, money, and decision-making What somatic awareness is—and why your body holds the answers your mind can't access Why logic alone isn't enough to create lasting change Practical ways to begin recognizing and interrupting your patterns You don't have to keep repeating the same story—awareness is the first step toward rewriting it. Guest: Carla Royal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlaroyal/ Website: https://www.carlaroyal.com/ 👤 Host: Elke Rubach rubachwealth.com | LinkedIn: Elke Rubach
April 7 · 50 min
AI Won't Fix Your Thinking with Shashank Shekhar | #40
What if AI is making you faster—but not better? In this episode, host Elke Rubach sits down with entrepreneur and Let AI Be Your Coach author Shashank Shekhar to unpack the real role of AI in modern decision-making. From launching a mortgage company in the 2008 financial crisis to building AI-driven systems today, Shashank shares how leaders can use AI to sharpen their thinking—without outsourcing it. Together, they challenge the hype and fear around AI, reframing it not as a replacement, but as a powerful coach that can elevate clarity, productivity, and execution—if used intentionally. Key takeaways: Why AI should act as a coach—not a decision-maker How to avoid surface-level thinking when using AI tools Where AI creates the most leverage (and where it adds noise) If you're feeling overwhelmed by tools, information, or decisions—this conversation will help you refocus on what actually drives progress. Guest: Shashank Shekhar https://www.linkedin.com/in/shashankshekhar/ 👤 Host: Elke Rubach rubachwealth.com | LinkedIn: Elke Rubach
March 24 · 45 min
Why Your Business Can't Survive You | #39
What if the biggest threat to your business... is you? In this episode, host Elke Rubach sits down with Laurie Barkman, the "Business Transition Sherpa," to unpack why so many successful founders build profitable companies that ultimately can't survive without them. Drawing from her own experience leading a multi-generational company through a successful exit, Laurie shares the strategic and emotional realities of succession planning—and why most owners wait too long to face it. Together, they explore how identity, leadership, and structure determine whether a business thrives beyond its founder—or quietly loses value when it matters most. Key Takeaways: Why owner dependency is the #1 hidden risk to business value The "head, heart, and wallet" framework for successful transitions Early warning signs your business isn't transferable How to start planning 5–7 years before you exit (and why it matters) Your business isn't just something you build—it's something you eventually leave. The question is: will it last? Guest: Laurie Barkman | LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauriebarkman/ | Website: https://lauriebarkman.com/ 👤 Host: Elke Rubach rubachwealth.com | LinkedIn: Elke Rubach
#38
March 17 · 49 min
Why Advisors Avoid Succession Planning with Marissa Teeter | #38
What happens to your clients if something happens to you tomorrow? In this episode of Get Your House in Order, host Elke Rubach sits down with leadership advisor Marissa Teeter to unpack one of the most avoided conversations in financial services: succession. While many seasoned advisors have built decades-long relationships and thriving books of business, far too few have a clear plan for what happens next—and the risks of waiting are bigger than most realize. Together, they explore the emotional, strategic, and leadership challenges behind transitioning a practice—and why the most responsible advisors start planning long before retirement is even on the horizon. In this conversation, you'll learn: Why succession planning is as much emotional as it is financial The hidden risks advisors create when they delay transition planning How thoughtful succession can protect clients, teams, and legacy Whether you're an advisor early in your career or approaching retirement, this episode reframes succession not as an ending—but as a leadership responsibility. Because the real value of what you built isn't measured in revenue. It's measured in how responsibly it transitions. 🎧 Tune in and start the conversation. Connect with the Guest – Marissa Teeter: https://www.marissateeter.com/ 👤 Host: Elke Rubach rubachwealth.com | LinkedIn: Elke Rubach
#37
March 10 · 39 min
Reclaiming Power in Male-Dominated Spaces with Leslie Grandy | #37
What does it really take to lead confidently in rooms where you weren't expected to belong? In this powerful conversation, Leslie Grandy joins host Elke Rubach to unpack the realities of rising through male-dominated industries while staying authentic, strategic, and self-aware. Drawing from decades of executive leadership experience, Leslie shares hard-earned lessons about navigating bias, redefining power, and leading with both strength and emotional intelligence. Together, they explore how influence isn't about overpowering others — it's about understanding the room, knowing your value, and choosing your voice with intention. In this episode, you'll discover: How to navigate power dynamics without losing yourself The difference between authority and influence Why emotional intelligence is a leadership advantage — not a weakness If you've ever questioned your voice in high-stakes environments, this conversation is your reminder: you don't need to become someone else to lead powerfully. You just need to own who you already are. Guest: Leslie Grandy 🔗 https://www.lesliegrandy.com/ 👤 Host: Elke Rubach rubachwealth.com | LinkedIn: Elke Rubach

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