Why 90% of Families Lose Their Wealth (And How to Prevent It)

In this powerful episode of Family Dialogues, Dr. Taniesha Burke sits down with family enterprise advisor Emily Griffiths Hamilton to unpack the truth about generational wealth, succession planning, and building a lasting family legacy.

Most families focus on making money, but far fewer know how to sustain wealth across generations without conflict, entitlement, or loss. Emily introduces the concept of a “family bank” which a framework that goes beyond finances to include shared values, communication, and intentional parenting.

You’ll discover why 70% of wealth is lost by the second generation, and 90% by the third, and how families can break that cycle.

This episode explores:

Why communication, not money, is the #1 reason families lose wealth
The difference between financial wealth vs. human and intellectual capital
How to create a family vision and shared values that guide decisions
Why giving children “everything” can undermine resilience and independence
How to raise children who are financially responsible, confident, and purpose-driven
Practical ways to introduce money conversations at age-appropriate stages
How to avoid inheritance conflict, entitlement, and family breakdown

Whether you’re building wealth from scratch or thinking about your legacy, this episode will help you raise children who are not just wealthy—but prepared, grounded, and connected.