Be A Bridge Builder
- Jay Coulter, CFP®, CIMA®
- Sep 6, 2025
- 2 min read
In 1869, John Roebling set out to build the longest suspension bridge in the world.
It would connect Brooklyn and Manhattan—two growing cities separated by the East River.
Just weeks into the project, tragedy struck.
Roebling died in an accident at the construction site.
His son, Washington Roebling, stepped in to lead.
But not long after, he suffered decompression sickness while working in the caissons deep underwater.
Paralyzed and bedridden, he could no longer oversee the project directly.
Most people assumed the dream of the bridge was over.
But it wasn’t.
Washington’s wife, Emily Roebling, quietly stepped in.
She learned engineering on the fly.
She studied mathematics, materials, and cable construction.
For 14 years, Emily carried messages between Washington and the workers.
She coordinated the project.
She held the vision together.
When the Brooklyn Bridge finally opened in 1883, Emily rode the very first carriage across.
The bridge still stands today—a monument not just to engineering, but to resilience and stewardship.
This week I started a new role as CEO of Titleist Asset Management.
The two co-founders (Byron Fields & J.B. O'Banion) started the company in 2003 and while they did not have the extreme challenges that the Roebling family endured...every entrepreneur experiences the challenges of building a business.
Challenging employees...sales..bear markets.....partners who turn on you...it comes with all of the hurdles!
They have done a great job building a business to be proud of by any measure.
Just like Emily Roebling held the vision together for her family, I have a chance to partner with them to grow and expand their vision of a world-class platform that serves advisors and their clients.
Today the firm serves 1910 families...and that is our most important KPI.
And even though I have just started and plan to be at the firm a VERY long time, I will be cognisant of who will carry the vision after us.
That is how large suspension bridges and impactful investment firms...are built to last.
Takeaway: What do you need to do to make sure your vision and business last after you are gone?
P.S. - If you are going to be at Future Proof this week, let's connect.
P.S.S. - We are off to a fast start at Titleist with Wealthbox Altruist & GBI partnership announcements this week! Checkout this video!
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