Episode 22: Built for Connection with Taylor Ranker

Recorded inside his newly designed Tampa office [by CREATE+CO], this episode features Taylor Ranker—founder of Questmont Virtual Family Office and author of Dead Cats & Wealth Advisors. Kristina and Taylor dive into what it means to create a place that fosters trust, intimacy, and long-term legacy—not just for clients, but for teams and communities.

Taylor shares the evolution of Questmont’s boutique family-office model, his unfiltered critique of traditional wealth management, and how thoughtful design (and leadership) play a critical role in client experience. The conversation also explores the power of planning, behavioral investment counseling, and the impact of creating a space that puts people at ease during some of life’s most personal conversations.

Inside the episode:– How Questmont brings coordination, creativity, and deep care to ultra-high-net-worth families– The philosophy behind Dead Cats & Wealth Advisors (and yes, the origin of the title)– Why Taylor sees himself as the “maestro,” not the technician—and how that has shaped his leadership– What it means to truly “design for safety” in a business setting– The value of discovery, trust, and restraint in designing his own firm’s space– Why every business—no matter the size—can benefit from intentional design– A transparent conversation on imposter syndrome, legacy, and doing one thing well

Connect with Taylor ::- LinkedIn Taylor : https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-ranker-ii-71415814- Taylor's Book : https://taylorkranker.com- Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/questmontvfo - Website : https://questmont.com

Connect with KY ::👊🏼LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinayorkofficial/📐Design : https://www.createandcompany.com  🎙️Podcast : https://createaplace.net  📺 YouTube : https://www.youtube.com/@CREATEAPLACE🎧Apple : https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/create-a-place/id1779942208🎧Spotify : https://open.spotify.com/show/7fIVCgnR433sniYRvrRwNZ?si=b77e418c27524bc4🎧Podbean : https://createaplace.podbean.com