Dr. Michael J. Donovan sits down with his friend Sam Syed- serial entrepreneur, wealth advisor, and deep thinker- for an honest, unscripted conversation that begins with Sam sharing about his dog, who’s nearing the end of her life. That moment sets the tone for everything that follows.
From there, the conversation opens up into gratitude, inner peace, and the tension many high performers feel between external success and internal fulfillment. Sam reflects on how slowing down—and learning to truly receive—has shifted his perspective on purpose, leadership, and what a “good life” actually looks like. The two also explore imposter syndrome, societal pressure, and how easy it is to look successful on the outside while feeling disconnected on the inside.
They touch on Sam’s experiences with ayahuasca, not as the focus, but as part of a larger journey toward presence, gratitude, and clarity.
This is not a conversation about optimization or chasing more. It’s about cutting through the noise, being with what matters, and remembering that real fulfillment is an inside job.
If you’ve ever wondered whether success alone is supposed to feel better than this—this episode is for you.
Sam Syed has spent the last 20 years helping people think clearly about money, legacy, and what really matters long after the spreadsheets are closed. He’s the founder of Syed Financial Group, where he works with families, entrepreneurs, and nonprofits on thoughtful wealth planning, tax strategy, and generational giving—using everything from traditional planning tools to more advanced strategies like PPLI and premium financing.
Sam’s career started in London stockbroking and has taken him across the UK, Dubai, New York City, and Colorado, earning a few awards along the way—but what really drives him is legacy planning and helping people align their financial lives with the impact they want to leave behind.
He lives in Evergreen with his wife, two kids, a baby on the way, and their dog Irene. When he’s not working, you’ll usually find him climbing mountains, traveling, exploring art and culture, golfing, or having the kind of conversations that make you rethink how you’re living.
Contact Sam here; sam@syedfinancial.com
