In this episode of AWM Insights, Chief Investment Officer Justin Dyer and Portfolio Manager Mena Hanna break down how to approach venture capital with an institutional mindset. They explore the necessity of true diversification, the power law behind outlier returns, and the importance of gaining exposure to innovation hubs rather than chasing the latest sector trend. If you want to learn how professional investors identify value across unexpected places and strategically manage risk in private markets, this episode delivers practical insights and actionable strategies you won’t want to miss.Chapters(00:09) Approaching Venture Capital Like an Institutional Pro(01:20) Importance of Diversification in Venture Portfolios(04:14) Exposure to Innovation Hubs and Networks(08:47) Power Law and Outlier Returns in Venture Investing(11:51) Looking Ahead to Other Private Market StrategiesConnect with UsCall or text us: 626-862-0355Website: https://www.athletefamilyoffice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc1NxpK21N1vKWEExC45YEALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/awmcapital/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awmcapital/X: https://twitter.com/awmcapitalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/awmcapital/
In this episode of AWM Insights, Chief Investment Officer Justin Dyer is joined by Portfolio Manager Mena Hanna to unpack the realities of investing in venture capital. Together, they break down common mistakes, reveal surprising data on early-stage company success rates, and outline what it takes to build a winning, institution-grade VC strategy. Learn why diversification, disciplined portfolio construction, and understanding the power law are essential when stepping into the private markets. If you want to approach venture investing like a pro and avoid the pitfalls that trip up most investors, this conversation is a must-listen.Chapters(00:00) Why Venture Capital Demands a Strategic Approach(02:00) Common Pitfalls in Early Stage Investing(04:00) Power Law Dynamics and Portfolio Construction(07:00) Importance of Diversification and Manager Selection(09:00) Vintage Year and Sector Diversification StrategiesConnect with UsCall or text us: 626-862-0355Website: https://www.athletefamilyoffice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc1NxpK21N1vKWEExC45YEALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/awmcapital/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awmcapital/X: https://twitter.com/awmcapitalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/awmcapital/
In this episode of AWM Insights, Chief Investment Officer Justin Dyer and Portfolio Manager Mena Hanna break down the dynamic world of private market investing. Together, they explore the explosive growth of private markets, the distinct strategies that separate institutional investors from individual ones, and the myths and realities of access to exclusive opportunities. Discover why diversification, data analysis, and a disciplined approach matter more than chasing the next hot startup. Whether you’re curious about the potential of private markets or looking to refine your investment playbook, this discussion offers practical wisdom and sharp insights you won’t want to miss.Connect with UsCall or text us: 626-862-0355Website: https://www.athletefamilyoffice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc1NxpK21N1vKWEExC45YEALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/awmcapital/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awmcapital/X: https://twitter.com/awmcapitalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/awmcapital/Chapters(00:00) Introduction to Private Market Investing(01:00) Growth and Complexity of Private Markets(03:00) Institutional Approach Versus Individual Investing(05:00) Access and its True Value(08:00) Importance of Data and Base Rate Probabilities(09:00) Pitfalls of One-Off and Product-Driven Investing(11:00) Diversification and Building a Playbook
In this special holiday episode of AWM Insights, Justin Dyer and Mena Hanna reflect on recent market volatility and the power of gratitude in investing. They discuss why market sell-offs are a natural—and even beneficial—part of the long-term wealth journey, sharing stories drawn from real client experiences and hard-earned expertise. With a focus on aligning investment strategies to life priorities and managing emotional responses to market swings, this episode offers a human-centered perspective to help you stay confident and purposeful, no matter the market’s direction. Tune in for fresh perspective and practical wisdom as you head into the holiday season.Connect with UsCall or text us: 626-862-0355Website: https://www.athletefamilyoffice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc1NxpK21N1vKWEExC45YEALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/awmcapital/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awmcapital/X: https://twitter.com/awmcapitalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/awmcapital/Chapters(00:00) Reflecting on Recent Market Volatility(02:48) Gratitude for Market Downturns and Long-Term Gains(04:16) Investing for Life Priorities(06:16) Navigating Emotions in Investing(07:13) Human-Centered Approach and Client Gratitude
In this episode of AWM Insights, Chief Investment Officer Justin Dyer and Portfolio Manager Mena Hanna break down the latest volatility in global markets and discuss what it really means for investor portfolios. Together, they explore the key forces driving market swings—from sticky inflation and central bank policies to shifting sentiment around tech stocks and cryptocurrencies. With candid insights and practical analogies, Justin and Mena reveal why volatility is not the enemy but a necessary part of building long-term wealth. Whether you’re worried by red numbers or tempted to chase market trends, this conversation offers a steady-handed playbook for making sound investment decisions under uncertainty.Connect with UsCall or text us: 626-862-0355Website: https://www.athletefamilyoffice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc1NxpK21N1vKWEExC45YEALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/awmcapital/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awmcapital/X: https://twitter.com/awmcapitalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/awmcapital/Chapters(00:00) Market Volatility and Recent Performance(02:00) Forces Driving the Current Market(05:00) Shifting from Optimism to Realism(06:00) The Role of Risk and Volatility in Investing(08:00) Singles and Doubles Versus Chasing Home Runs(09:30) Making Good Decisions Amid Uncertainty(10:45) Sticking to Your Investing Playbook
In this episode of AWM Insights, Chief Investment Officer Justin Dyer and Portfolio Manager Mena Hanna wrap up their series on winning through disciplined investing and sound decision-making. They break down why a strong defense—both in sports and in your portfolio—is the bedrock of long-term success and multi-generational wealth. Through candid insights and relatable sports analogies, Justin and Mena reveal how defensive strategies, diversification, and resilient processes give families the edge to thrive, with stories and practical play-calling advice you can apply right now. Tune in to learn how to build a championship-winning plan for your wealth and legacy.Connect with UsCall or text us: 626-862-0355Website: https://www.athletefamilyoffice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc1NxpK21N1vKWEExC45YEALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/awmcapital/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awmcapital/X: https://twitter.com/awmcapitalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/awmcapital/Chapters(00:00) Defensive Strategy Wins Championships(02:50) Building a Playbook for Investing(04:03) Bonds and the Role of Defense(06:40) Diversification as Offensive Defense(07:38) Decision-Making and Play Calling(10:23) Discipline and Multi-Generational Confidence
Join Chief Investment Officer Justin Dyer and Portfolio Manager Mena Hanna as they break down the art of building a resilient investment portfolio in this episode of AWM Insights. Shifting from high-risk “big shots” to the consistent power of singles and doubles, Justin and Mena unpack why steady performance in public markets forms the backbone of lasting wealth. Drawing lessons from Major League Baseball and real-world market data, they reveal why chasing the hottest stocks seldom pays off—and how strategic diversification sets you up to win over the long run. If you want actionable advice grounded in expertise and real-life analogy, this episode is for you.Connect with UsCall or text us: 626-862-0355Website: https://www.athletefamilyoffice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc1NxpK21N1vKWEExC45YEALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/awmcapital/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awmcapital/X: https://twitter.com/awmcapitalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/awmcapital/Chapters(00:00) Shifting Focus to Singles and Doubles(02:00) Consistency as Portfolio Backbone(04:00) Lessons from Baseball and Market Probabilities(06:00) Dispelling Myths About Big Winners(08:00) Building a Diversified, Data-Driven Lineup(11:00) Avoiding Weak Links Through Diversification(12:00) Attention to Nuanced Details and Small Ball Strategies
Join hosts Justin Dyer and Mena Hanna as they break down what it means to take the right shot in your investment playbook. This episode focuses on when and how to aim for big growth opportunities, balancing dependable moves with bold plays like venture capital. Listen in for expert guidance on building a well-structured portfolio, knowing when to take risks, and how to avoid costly pitfalls—all delivered through relatable stories from the world of sports and investing. Whether you’re planning for long-term success or seeking an edge with your next big move, this conversation covers the strategies every forward-thinking investor should know.Connect with UsCall or text us: 626-862-0355Website: https://www.athletefamilyoffice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc1NxpK21N1vKWEExC45YEALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/awmcapital/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awmcapital/X: https://twitter.com/awmcapitalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/awmcapital/Chapters(00:00) Defining Winning and Strategic Big Plays(01:00) Balancing Predictable and High-Growth Investments(04:00) Building the Foundation Before Taking Risks(05:00) Choosing the Right Asset Classes for Growth(07:00) Approaching Venture Capital with Discipline(09:00) Evaluating Costs and Terms in Direct Investments
In this episode of AWM Insights, Chief Investment Officer Justin Dyer and Portfolio Manager Mena Hanna tackle the real-life decisions that set elite athletes—and successful investors—apart from the crowd. They break down why focusing on process beats chasing short-term hype, sharing strategies for navigating market fads, clarifying your financial goals, and building a decision-making framework built for lasting results. Listeners will walk away with concrete techniques for making disciplined, high-quality choices that compound over time, both on and off the field. Tune in to learn how a proven playbook can help you win, not just in the markets, but in life and legacy.Connect with UsCall or text us: 626-862-0355Website: https://www.athletefamilyoffice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc1NxpK21N1vKWEExC45YEALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/awmcapital/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awmcapital/X: https://twitter.com/awmcapitalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/awmcapital/Chapters(00:00) Playing the long game and real-life investment scenarios(02:00) Using a structured decision framework(03:00) Clarifying goals and evaluating decisions(05:00) Focusing on process over short-term outcomes(07:00) Probability, confidence, and quality in investments(09:00) Applying the framework to personal financial situations(10:00) Avoiding risky shortcuts and compounding quality decisions
Join Chief Investment Officer Justin Dyer and portfolio manager Mena Hanna as they break down what it really means to win in investing. This episode challenges the fixation on returns, spotlighting how true success comes from defining your personal goals and building a disciplined process. With relatable stories from sports and investing, Justin and Mena offer practical advice for making decisions that build lasting wealth and legacy. Tune in to learn how to craft a winning playbook for your family's financial future.Connect with UsCall or test us: 626-862-0355Website: https://www.athletefamilyoffice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc1NxpK21N1vKWEExC45YEALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/awmcapital/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awmcapital/X: https://twitter.com/awmcapitalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/awmcapital/Chapters(00:00) Rethinking winning in investing(01:00) Defining personal success and legacy(04:00) The power of process over outcome(06:00) Overcoming behavioral biases and hype(07:00) Clarifying goals and measurement(09:00) Intentional decision making for what matters most
In this episode of AWM Insights, Justin Dyer and Mena Hanna break down the buzz around gold hitting all-time highs and the narratives that drive interest in alternative assets like crypto, collectibles, and NFTs. They challenge popular beliefs about gold as an inflation hedge and explore why traditional investments with real cash flows stand the test of time. With memorable stories and sharp analysis, this episode offers a seasoned perspective on navigating hype cycles and building a portfolio grounded in substance rather than speculation. Tune in if you want to sharpen your strategy and learn what truly matters in long-term wealth creation.Connect with UsCall or test us: 626-862-0355Website: https://www.athletefamilyoffice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc1NxpK21N1vKWEExC45YEALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/awmcapital/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awmcapital/X: https://twitter.com/awmcapitalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/awmcapital/Chapters(00:00) Gold at all-time highs(03:00) Understanding value without cash flow(05:00) Gold as inflation hedge myth(06:00) Bitcoin and digital gold comparisons(07:00) Blockchain technology versus speculation(08:00) The risks and realities of collectibles(11:00) Dangers of narrative-driven investments
Join AWM’s Chief Investment Officer Justin Dyer and Portfolio Manager Mena Hanna as they break down the latest quarter’s market performance, tackle the headline-grabbing government shutdown, and explore how different generations approach investing. Drawing from historical data and lived experience, they separate economic noise from true market drivers and share the timeless role of discipline in building long-term wealth. If you want an inside track on how market pros think about volatility, generational perspective, and building a resilient portfolio, this episode packs strong opinions and practical insights you can use. Tune in for advice that cuts through the noise and helps you stay focused on what matters most for your financial future.Connect with UsCall or test us: 626-862-0355Website: https://www.athletefamilyoffice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc1NxpK21N1vKWEExC45YEALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/awmcapital/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awmcapital/X: https://twitter.com/awmcapitalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/awmcapital/Chapters(00:01) Quarter-end review and market performance(01:59) Government shutdown and market impact(04:16) Generational perspectives on investing(09:47) Importance of discipline and foundational strategy
Join Chief Investment Officer Justin Dyer and Portfolio Manager Mena Hanna as they tackle one of the most common—and misunderstood—questions in wealth management: how should your investment approach shift as your income and wealth grow? Drawing from the world of professional athletes, Justin and Mena break down the discipline needed at every stage, from starting out to building multi-generational wealth. They share straightforward frameworks, practical analogies, and offer expert insights into aligning investments with your life’s milestones. If you want to learn how to create a playbook for sustainable, lasting wealth, this episode is for you.Connect with UsCall or test us: 626-862-0355Website: https://www.athletefamilyoffice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc1NxpK21N1vKWEExC45YEALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/awmcapital/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awmcapital/X: https://twitter.com/awmcapitalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/awmcapital/Chapters(00:00) Discipline at Every Wealth Stage(01:50) Earnings Window and Mistake Impact for Athletes(03:54) Applying Maslow’s Hierarchy to Portfolio Construction(05:24) Building Investment Portfolios Like a Home(07:10) Foundations, Extensions, and Sizing Investments(10:30) Aligning Risk and Timing With Goals
In this episode of AWM Insights, Chief Investment Officer, Justin Dyer, and Portfolio Manager, Mena Hanna, break down some of the biggest trends dominating market headlines, from the rise of mega-cap tech stocks to the renewed buzz around gold. Together, they cut through the noise with expert analysis and real data, offering perspective on temptations like investing heavily in the hottest companies or chasing the next big thing. If you want to understand what really drives long-term investing success and why discipline beats FOMO every time, this episode delivers clarity and actionable insight for anyone looking to build and protect generational wealth.Connect with UsCall or test us: 626-862-0355Website: https://www.athletefamilyoffice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc1NxpK21N1vKWEExC45YEALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/awmcapital/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awmcapital/X: https://twitter.com/awmcapitalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/awmcapital/Chapters(00:00) Trends in headline investing(03:48) Concentration in mega-cap tech stocks(09:08) US exceptionalism and global diversification(14:03) Gold’s resurgence and investment utility(18:18) Discipline over chasing fads
In this episode of AWM Insights, Chief Investment Officer, Justin Dyer, and Portfolio Manager, Mena Hanna, break down the impact of interest rates on financial markets. They unravel how changes from the Federal Reserve shape everything from your investment portfolio to everyday borrowing decisions, offering relatable analogies that make complex topics easy to understand. With practical advice on refinancing and thoughtful discussion around the nuances of rate cuts, this episode gives listeners clear, actionable guidance in a shifting economic environment. If you want to understand what today’s interest rate moves really mean for your wealth, this conversation is worth a listen.Connect with usCall or text: 626-862-0355Website: https://www.athletefamilyoffice.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awmcapital/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/awmcapital/X: https://twitter.com/awmcapitalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/awmcapital/Chapters(00:00) The role of interest rates in financial markets(01:44) Recent trends and impacts of interest rate changes(03:41) The Federal Reserve’s priorities and mandates(05:54) Refinancing and personal debt decisions
Join AWM's CIO, Justin Dyer, and Portfolio Manager, Mena Hanna, as they break down the realities of hype versus habits in long-term investing. Drawing on stories from professional sports and first-hand experience working with athlete families, they explore why tempting trends and viral schemes rarely pay off, while steady discipline and strategic planning create lasting wealth. This episode reveals the pitfalls of get-rich-quick fads, the pressure unique to pro athletes, and the proven power of compounding for multi-generational success. If you want to separate financial fact from viral fiction, this episode offers clarity—and a winning game plan.Connect with usWebsite: https://www.athletefamilyoffice.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awmcapital/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/awmcapital/X: https://twitter.com/awmcapitalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/awmcapital/Chapters(00:01) Hype cycles and influence of social media(02:11) The lure of get-rich-quick schemes(04:30) The risks and realities behind fads(05:17) Unique challenges for athlete wealth(07:34) The discipline of compounding and process(10:01) Aligning incentives with long-term goals(13:30) Consistency over chasing home runs in investing
Join AWM Capital’s Justin Dyer and Mena Hanna as they tackle the hot topic of copying the trading activity of politicians in today’s polarized climate. Together, they break down the data behind headline-grabbing performance claims, explore real-world examples like political ETFs, and reveal why timing, transparency, and changing regulations make these strategies unreliable. This episode offers a candid look at the pitfalls of politicized investing and underscores what actually drives long-term, multi-generational wealth. If you’ve ever wondered whether you should follow lawmakers’ moves in the market, you won’t want to miss this deep dive.Connect with usWebsite: https://www.athletefamilyoffice.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awmcapital/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/awmcapital/X: https://twitter.com/awmcapitalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/awmcapital/Chapters(00:00) The hype around copying politician trades(01:02) Challenges of implementing trading strategies(03:09) Data limitations and unreliable replication(06:01) Real-world performance of political ETFs(08:53) The dangers of politicized investing(09:57) Regulatory changes and shifting rules
Join hosts Justin Dyer and Mena Hanna as they tackle two of the most pressing questions on the minds of today’s investors: Can AI truly beat the market, and what does it really mean to strikeout on an investment? Drawing on real market data and experience guiding athlete families, they break down persistent myths around algorithmic trading and market efficiency, then redefine what success—and failure—should look like in your portfolio. Whether you’re curious about the power of AI or looking to sharpen your long-term strategy, this episode delivers expert perspectives and practical wisdom to help you play the wealth management game for lasting results.Connect with usWebsite: https://www.athletefamilyoffice.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awmcapital/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/awmcapital/X: https://twitter.com/awmcapitalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/awmcapital/Chapters(00:00) Addressing client questions in wealth management(00:49) Can AI trading outperform the market(02:45) How market efficiency shapes returns(06:00) The reality of seeking market inefficiencies(07:52) Defining striking out in investing(09:00) Managing risk through diversification and discipline(11:12) Importance of compounding and consistent strategy
In this episode of AWM Insights, hosts Justin Dyer and Mena Hanna take you inside the world of financial fads, from the dot-com bubble to the latest meme stocks and cryptocurrencies. Together, they break down why hype-driven trends can be so tempting—and so costly—for investors seeking long-term, multi-generational wealth. Discover practical strategies to separate substance from speculation and learn a proven framework for evaluating new opportunities in today's attention economy. If you're serious about preserving and growing your family's wealth, this episode delivers the key insights to help you play the stay-wealthy game with discipline and confidence.Connect with usWebsite: https://www.athletefamilyoffice.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awmcapital/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/awmcapital/X: https://twitter.com/awmcapitalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/awmcapital/Chapter Outline(00:00) Understanding financial fads and short-term hype(01:41) Historical examples of investment fads(05:34) Emotional triggers and herd mentality(08:59) Why investment fads ultimately fail(12:54) Framework for analyzing new investment opportunities(16:29) Importance of ethics and diligence in investing(17:33) Playing the stay wealthy game
Step into this week's episode as Brandon Averill, AWM CEO, takes the host chair and teams up with AWM portfolio manager, Mena Hanna, for a fast-paced session answering clients’ most pressing investing questions. Together, they unpack the realities of S&P 500 exposure, the long-term power of global diversification, and why compounding outpaces gold and real estate over time. The conversation also covers interest rates, currency moves, and the impact of tariffs, giving listeners actionable insights with a dash of humor and candor. Whether you’re working to build generational wealth or simply want a clearer financial playbook, this episode delivers practical wisdom you won’t want to miss.Connect with usWebsite: https://www.athletefamilyoffice.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awmcapital/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/awmcapital/X: https://twitter.com/awmcapitalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/awmcapital/Chapter Outline(00:00) Rapid fire investing questions(01:15) S&P 500 in client portfolios(03:21) Stock market versus gold and real estate(06:43) Interest rates and portfolio impact(10:25) The case for global diversification(12:59) Tariffs, news, and long-term thinking(14:35) Client engagement and setting the agenda