Beyond the Balance Sheet: Building Multi-Generational Family Unity and Legacy with Shawn Barberis of More Than Money

In this episode of the Growing Up B2B Podcast, host Ed Delia speaks with Shawn Barberis, Founder and President of More Than Money, about redefining what true wealth means across generations. Shawn shares how his firm helps families strengthen unity, communication, and shared purpose—because sustainable legacy isn’t just about managing assets, but nurturing the values and relationships that keep a family strong. This conversation is a must-listen for family business leaders and wealth stewards looking to create impact that lasts beyond the balance sheet.

Redefining Wealth: From Financial Assets to Family Alignment

Shawn Barberis believes that true family wealth is more than money. In his work at More Than Money, he helps families shift focus from financial capital to the “human and social capital” that underpins generational success—things like gratitude, communication, and trust. He explains that while most families spend significant time on tax and estate planning, few dedicate the same attention to building unity and purpose. That’s where the real work begins.

Through his 30 Minutes a Month framework, Shawn encourages families to replace lengthy, inconsistent meetings with regular “family forums” that inspire meaningful discussion and accountability. These sessions address values, decision-making, and communication—turning abstract ideals into tangible practices. Using over 40 interactive discovery tools and a digital platform, More Than Money enables families, even those spread across geographies, to stay connected and engaged in a structured way.

Shawn also highlights the importance of understanding communication styles, referencing his use of social style frameworks that reveal how differences in expression—not intention—create friction. By cultivating transparency, active listening, and gratitude, families can transform conflict into collaboration. His message is clear: lasting legacy isn’t built through documents; it’s built through dialogue.

About Shawn Barberis

Shawn Barberis is the Founder and President of More Than Money, a pioneering firm that guides families in building stronger relationships, governance structures, and shared purpose beyond financial wealth. With decades of experience in family enterprise advisory, Shawn’s work focuses on the qualitative side of wealth—uncovering the human dynamics that drive long-term unity and stewardship. Connect with Shawn on LinkedIn.

About More Than Money

More Than Money helps families align their values, communication, and vision through structured family governance and innovative digital tools. The firm’s platform combines technology, psychology, and best practices to create sustainable family unity across generations. By integrating discovery tools and guided conversations, More Than Money empowers families to preserve both wealth and connection.

Links Mentioned in This Episode

• More Than Money

• Shawn Barberis on LinkedIn

Key Episode Highlights

• The qualitative side of wealth: why values, unity, and purpose matter more than money

• How family forums foster transparency and long-term alignment

• Communication style insights that reduce conflict and improve connection

• The role of technology and AI in strengthening multi-generational engagement

• Why legacy is built through relationships, not spreadsheets

Conclusion

In this Growing Up B2B episode, Shawn Barberis reminds us that legacy isn’t measured in assets—it’s measured in relationships. His framework for family unity challenges business leaders to go beyond strategy and financial planning to address the heart of what keeps families thriving: trust, communication, and shared meaning.

Explore Ed Delia’s website to learn more about leadership strategies for family businesses and B2B growth. If you’re a B2B leader with insights to share, apply to be a guest on the Growing Up B2B Podcast here.