Father’s Day. A time to appreciate those surprisingly profound moments with dad that have left a lasting impression on us. Whether it was a life lesson (disguised as a pep talk) or just the way they showed up when it mattered most, the father figures in our lives have shaped us in so many ways.
Today, we asked the team to share some favorite memories, along with a few words of wisdom, that continue to guide them. Thanks, Dad.
Happy Father’s Day to all of the amazing fathers and father figures in our lives.
F. Ron Smith
When I think about the dads in my life that have made an impact on me, I immediately go to my two father's- in-law. I have been fortunate to have had multi-decades relationships with both of them. Tracy's step-father Norm, a true father-figure and loving mentor to me, taught me absolutely everything-- from an appreciation for fine food and wine shared with family and friends to incredible, thoughtful and intelligent investing advice, and, most importantly, modeled for me how to have a life-long love affair with my wife, just as he had with my mother-in-law Barbara until his passing in 2022 at age 91. Tracy's father, Oliver, age 96, lives across the country now, but when he lived in LA, I fondly recall wonderful times and conversations in the pool in his backyard when my sons were little, and sharing the great Cuban cigars we both have now more than given up. As I was not very close to my father growing up, I feel especially blessed to have these two bonus dads.
David Berg
As a kid, my dad always told me, ‘The road to unintended consequences is paved with good intentions.’ What he meant was simple: no matter how well we plan or how hard we try, life doesn’t always go the way we expect. We don’t get to choose all the cards we’re dealt — but we do get to choose how we respond. His advice stuck with me: keep your head up, stay true to your values, and above all, be a good person.
Krista Masella
Not a day goes by that I’m not grateful for the love and guidance of my incredible father, Dominic. Before my first interview with F. Ron and David, I was nervous (as I always am before interviews), and he told me something I’ll never forget: “Be confident in who you are, no matter who’s in the room.” He reminded me of my work ethic and accomplishments, and that no one should ever make me doubt myself. That moment gave me the boost I needed, and almost six years later — the rest is history.
Robert ‘Morty’ Morton
I think of my Father every morning when I wake up, and every night when I go to sleep. Below is my favorite picture of my father. He’s watching my then three-year-old daughter, Billie…that’s his reflection in the window…one year before he died.
Sophia Kaplan
Best advice my father has ever given me is “Always get it in writing”.
Courtney Welsh
I think about my dad when I think about my kids' futures. They both possess traits they must have gotten from him. My dad is a textbook overachiever. It's annoying! Whatever he sets his mind to, he masters—whether it's academics, athletics, coaching, and even accumulating the most joint replacements - 4 in total. (We lovingly call him the Bionic Man.) If my kids end up being even half as driven and successful at what they set their minds to, I know they'll be more than okay. They'll thrive.
Jordan Kramer
Brandon Smith
I think about my dad when… he calls me at 6am letting me know that he has already worked out, made breakfast, and gone to the driving range. Endless love for this guy.
