[Podcast Episode #5] How to Create Wealth That Funds Your Legacy

In this episode of Get Your House in Order, we dive deep into the enduring business wisdom of Cosimo de’ Medici, a 15th-century powerhouse whose principles still shape successful enterprises today. Cosimo didn’t just build a bank—he crafted an institution that defined financial power in Renaissance Europe. His approach to business wasn’t just about profit; it was about intentionality, vision, and creating an environment where his team and clients could thrive.

A business doesn’t become extraordinary by accident. It takes deliberate action, smart strategies, and the discipline to execute. One of Cosimo’s greatest strengths was his unwavering focus on the customer. He didn’t fall in love with products; he fell in love with solving people’s problems. That’s a lesson every entrepreneur must internalize. Too often, we get caught up in what we think is a great idea, only to realize the market doesn’t care. Cosimo understood that true success comes from listening, adapting, and delivering exactly what people need—earning not just their business but their loyalty.

Then there’s the art of selling—an area where many entrepreneurs struggle. Too many business owners believe that having a great product is enough. It’s not. Cosimo was not just a brilliant banker; he was a masterful salesperson, building relationships, establishing trust, and making sure his clients felt valued. If you’re running a business, you’re in sales—whether you realize it or not. Mastering this skill is the key to not just surviving but thriving in any industry.

But a thriving business can’t rely on charisma alone—it needs systems. Many entrepreneurs find themselves trapped, working in their business instead of on it. Cosimo knew better. He built structures that allowed his bank to run smoothly, freeing him to focus on expansion, influence, and innovation. The question is: Can your business operate without you? If the answer is no, you haven’t built a business—you’ve built a job. Systematization is what separates a beautiful, scalable enterprise from a stressful, never-ending grind.

Finally, we discuss the necessity of evolution. Markets change, industries shift, and what worked yesterday won’t necessarily work tomorrow. The most successful entrepreneurs, like Cosimo, constantly adapt—refining their methods, improving their processes, and staying ahead of the curve. A business that stops evolving starts dying.

So, what’s the takeaway? To build a business that lasts, you need to think beyond the short-term hustle. Focus on your customers, embrace the role of a salesperson, build rock-solid systems, and never stop learning. Cosimo’s legacy wasn’t just about wealth—it was about impact. And that’s the kind of business worth building.