The Spirit of Wealth Preservation: Legacy, Purpose, and the Generational Blueprint with Ken Polk

The Authority Company

Joe Pardavila welcomes Ken Polk, founder of Arlington—a multi-family office managing $15 billion in assets—and author of The Spirit of Wealth Preservation: Leverage Your Finite Life for the Infinite. Ken delves into the often-overlooked challenges of wealth preservation, arguing it can be just as difficult as building wealth itself. He introduces the concept of “spiritual capital”—the collective purpose that binds families and businesses—and shares how values, legacy, and intentionality form the bedrock of lasting success. From starting Arlington at age 25 with “a desk and a chair” to navigating economic unpredictability, Ken reveals how discipline, simplicity, and a focus on “followship” (not just leadership) drive his approach. He discusses generational shifts in finance, Gen Z’s desire to “do good” with wealth, and why he chose not to pass his business to his children, prioritizing their autonomy over tradition. Listeners will gain actionable insights on crafting family legacies, identifying personal gifts, and balancing innovation with timeless principles. Whether you’re managing significant wealth or simply seeking to build a meaningful legacy, this episode is packed with wisdom on aligning money with purpose.
KEN POLK is the visionary founder of Arlington, a multifamily office specializing in wealth preservation and purpose-driven financial planning. With more than 25 years of experience, Polk has guided affluent families in aligning their financial strategies with their personal and communal values. A Certified Public Accountant and Certified Financial Planner, Polk blends professional expertise with personal passion, helping clients create meaningful legacies. Ken lives with his wife and children in Alabama, where he continues to inspire families to thrive across generations.