#1 / Meet Wolfgang Winter

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I had the distinct pleasure of spending a day with Wolfgang in conversation. We met Friday, January 10th, 2025 at his beautiful home with his wife Maria in Morristown, New Jersey. We had met each other on an early video call and gathered once more for a beautiful dinner the night before with his two sons, Marc + Eric. As we sat in facing leather chairs to start our recording, we felt well prepared. His sons had also equipped me with questions that mattered to them and the rest of the family. It felt like a big moment, and yet we slipped into easy conversation once we finally began.

 

Wolfgang is a natural storyteller. His memories are not only sharp and present, so are the emotions connected to the people in the stories. It is clear that he has had a very successful career in banking. It’s something he’s rightfully proud of. The remarkable journey from his homeland in Germany, to his success on Wall Street, to this moment of reflection and celebration is frankly quite epic. I witnessed evidence after evidence of resilience and sheer determination, all amplified by the love and support of his extended family. That will be quite a legacy to propel future generations of the Winters.

 

Interviews like this one are my favorite kinds of exchanges. It is rare these days to get to witness someone’s truth and humanity in such an intimate way. Wolfgang is expanded by taking a moment to pause and appreciate his life journey. And I am expanded by knowing him deeply and in turn, knowing myself more deeply. This is mending separation in our societal fabric. This is beauty in action. I invite to you take inspiration and sit down with someone you love, with a metaphorical basket of really good questions, and listen deeply without distraction or rush to leave. It is an exquisite gift that ripples out and out.

 

I know you will enjoy this conversation with Wolfgang. It is winding, wild, fun, honest, and gives a peek at a particular culture at a particular time in history. May you take in this story and share it with others.

 

Thank you, Wolfgang!

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Chris Everett