Steve Koch, former Credit Suisse Investment Banker and Deputy Mayor of Chicago, joins me at the bar to share lessons from his breadth of experience in both the private and public sectors. Steve provides a primer on investment banking, explains the value of being calm amid the volatility, reflects on the role of serendipity in his life, and shares lessons that will help us be better investors.

[01:23] – Introducing Steve Koch: Investment Banker, Former Deputy Mayor of Chicago, Philanthropist

[03:18] – Tasting: Very Olde St. Nick 12 Year Bourbon

[06:12] – An Investment Banking Primer – origins, growth, and role in our financial system

[15:25] – "at some point, the world will go to shit."

[18:20] – "there is value in being the calmest person in the room."

[20:15] – "try to be dispassionate…divorce emotions from the intellectual process."

[23:40] – From investment banking to public service (Deputy Mayor of Chicago)

[30:40] – Serendipity: "luck, accident, plays an enormous role…it just does."

[35:25] – Maintaining balance: "you have to be self-aware…and understand what's important to you."

[39:30] – "You need to know what you care about."

[42:15] – Biking & Goal Setting in Public: "if you tell people something, you're more likely to do it because it's too embarrassing to back out."

[46:26] – Wealth: "an opportunity for security and freedom."

[48:05] – Ben and Jerry's & Tesla – recognizing opportunities as a consumer

Links:

www.bullsbearsandbourbon.com

www.vermillionprivatewealth.com

**The information in this podcast is educational and general in nature and does not take into consideration the listener's personal circumstances. Therefore, it is not intended to be a substitute for specific, individualized financial, legal, or tax advice. To determine which strategies or investments may be suitable for you, consult the appropriate qualified professional before making a final decision. Thanks for listening.