Thought Leader, Media Innovator & Inspirational Speaker
A Preeminent Authority in Family Enterprises & Corporate Governance
R. Adam Smith is a globally recognized leader in family enterprises, private investments, and corporate governance. With over 20 years of experience as a speaker and strategic advisor, Adam delivers actionable insights through dynamic storytelling, inspiring think tanks, institutions, philanthropies, and conferences with his global expertise.
Adam founded Circle Peak Capital LLC, Wisdom Board Inc., and RAS Capital Partners LLC, creating platforms that align governance with long-term growth. His work has influenced over a dozen private companies with $600 million in combined sales. Adam also contributes to thought exchange. Elected three times as alumni committee chair for Columbia Business School, he delivered a 2024 keynote at the Global Family Business Consortium in Slovakia, sharing insights on governance and growth.
A Media Host Redefining the Narrative in Family Business
Adam founded and hosts the Family Business Audiocast, launched in 2022. This global LinkedIn podcast is the fastest-growing platform for family businesses, offering top leaders, investors, academics, and innovators a space to share stories and insights on trends, governance, and the future of family enterprises.
Known for his ability to align people, ideas, and opportunities, Adam is a savvy dealmaker and one of LinkedIn’s most influential voices. With over 50,000 connections, he has been recognized as a LinkedIn Top Voice three times during his 20 years on the platform.
His podcast engages a sophisticated audience of family business professionals, diving deep into strategies, philosophies, and challenges shaping the field today.
Illustrious Career & Distinguished Roles
Adam’s career spans a series of transformative roles:
Leadership in Private Equity: Adam has demonstrated exceptional leadership at Circle Peak Capital LLC, driving strategic growth and value creation. As a principal at Caxton-Iseman Capital and Castle Harlan, he led leveraged buyouts exceeding $1.5 billion.
Advisor to Global Icons: Adam has advised prestigious institutions such as Bain & Company, Hamilton Lane, and HQ Capital, serving as a trusted resource for strategic decision-making.
Board Leadership: With experience serving on 10 boards of directors and advisory boards, Adam has honed his expertise in governance excellence. Additionally, he was nominated to the advisory council of the Harvard Business Review.
Pioneer in Media & Education: Through Wisdom Board Inc., the Family Business Audiocast, and RAS Capital Partners, he has modernized governance education, equipping boards to succeed in evolving markets.
Visionary Leader & Strategic Connector
Adam’s ability to align people, ideas, and opportunities is unparalleled. As a frequent speaker and host, he brings a wealth of experience and global perspective to every engagement.
Topics he covers include:
Generational Legacy: Strengthening family values for long-term success.
Governance Excellence: Practical strategies for leading with clarity and resilience.
Investment Trends: Insights into innovation, technology, and sustainable growth.
Philanthropic Impact: Leveraging wealth for meaningful societal change.
Family Enterprises: Building strong, client-centric relationships that help families achieve their corporate goals and secure their legacy.
Family Offices: Tailored solutions for managing wealth, preserving assets, and supporting multi-generational prosperity.
Bringing Legacy & Innovation to the Wider Public
R. Adam Smith’s mission inspires leaders to blend tradition with forward-thinking solutions, empowering family enterprises to achieve sustainable success. Whether addressing private investors, hosting podcasts, or advising boards, Adam delivers a unique mix of expertise and inspiration, leaving audiences ready to lead and succeed in an ever-changing world.
Join the Conversation
With extensive experience and a proven track record, R. Adam Smith is the speaker who can transform your event into a memorable experience of learning and inspiration.
A respected public figure with over two decades of global experience in family business and enterprise, Adam is a sought-after thought leader available for conferences, institutions, think tanks, organizations, and leadership events. He also frequently shares his insights through podcasts, interviews, and webinars, engaging audiences with his expertise and global perspective.