The Mergers Podcast

Family Office Socials [Special Guest - Sam Nallen-Copley]

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Welcome back to The Mergers Podcast! In this episode, host Rory Mason, along with co-host Josh, sits down with Sam, who runs London's premier Family Office Network. With a jaw-dropping backstory that spans Japan, Paris, Papua New Guinea, and beyond, Sam’s journey from a martial arts enthusiast and journalist to a key player in the family office world is as non-traditional as it gets.

Key Highlights:

  • What Are Family Offices? A brief primer on family offices, their structure, and their unique flexibility in managing wealth beyond traditional banks and institutions.


  • An Unconventional Journey: Sam's path included stints as a Japanese translator, a journalist for Time Magazine, and even a year living with a Stone Age tribe in Papua New Guinea, where he learned survival skills and hunted with a bow. He shares how these life experiences shaped his adaptability and problem-solving skills.


  • From Private Intelligence to Family Offices: After returning to London, Sam pivoted into political risk and private intelligence roles, leading him to his first exposure to the family office world.


  • Building a Family Office Network: Sam explains how he founded the Family Office Socials (FOS), a 430-member peer-to-peer network connecting family offices for deal flow, fund investments, and professional collaboration. Learn how the network operates via WhatsApp and offers a unique platform for meaningful connections.


  • Advice for Aspiring Family Office Professionals: Sam provides insights on breaking into the family office world, emphasizing the importance of building relationships, acquiring diverse experiences, and approaching the space with a flexible mindset.


  • Lessons from the Field: The challenges and rewards of managing relationships within the family office space, including maintaining trust, fostering collaboration, and navigating personal dynamics.


  • What’s Next for Family Offices? A discussion on emerging trends, from the rise of new wealth to increased interest in niche sectors like longevity, biotech, and infrastructure.


This episode offers a rare glimpse into the enigmatic world of family offices, with practical advice for navigating its complex and diverse landscape. Whether you're a budding investor, a finance enthusiast, or someone interested in unique career paths, this conversation is packed with insights and stories that you won’t want to miss.