What happens when legal strategy meets human understanding?
In this episode of Grow Your Business & Grow Your Wealth, guest host Barry Goldwater sits down with Lisa M. Cukier, Chair of Fiduciary Litigation, for a candid conversation about the intersection of strategy, empathy, and the deeply personal nature of family law, trust and estate matters, and fiduciary services.
With decades of experience guiding high-net-worth families, fiduciaries, and family offices, Lisa shares how she approaches emotionally charged matters — from complex divorces and guardianships to multigenerational planning, fiduciary disputes, and high-conflict estates. Her concierge-level practice blends legal mastery with emotional intelligence, helping clients protect what matters most with clarity, discretion, and heart.
Throughout the conversation, Lisa sheds light on the often-unseen pressures families face during major life transitions. She explains why empathy isn’t just a soft skill but a strategic advantage — and how creativity, collaboration, and sound judgment can defuse conflict long before it escalates.
Listeners also gain an inside look at the realities of legacy and wealth preservation. Lisa and Barry discuss the risks of delayed planning, the vulnerabilities aging loved ones face, and the misunderstandings that can derail even the strongest family relationships. Whether advising on trust changes, safeguarding elders from bad actors, or navigating sensitive fiduciary responsibilities, Lisa offers a refreshingly honest, practical perspective.
Key Insights From the Episode
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Why emotional intelligence is essential in family, trust, and estate matters
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How to protect clients’ interests during volatile or high-pressure situations
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What “concierge-level” fiduciary service means in practice
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How creativity and compassion expand legal problem-solving
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Why early, aligned planning prevents conflict — and crisis-driven decisions
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Common pitfalls in high-net-worth estate and trust management
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How families can avoid preventable disputes and protect vulnerable members