John Nicola on Strategy, Succession & Serendipity

In this special episode recorded live at the Canada Private Markets Meeting in Toronto, Nicola Wealth’s Founder, Chairman, CEO and CIO, John Nicola joins Michael Kaumeyer, Vice Chair, Nicola Family, for an insightful conversation on leadership, legacy, and navigating uncertainty.

John reflects on the unexpected path that led him into financial services and the deliberate decisions that shaped Nicola Wealth’s unique model, one built on integrated planning, long-term thinking, and shared ownership. From early lessons in sales to building a multi-generational firm, John shares what he’s learned about scaling with purpose and preparing for succession.

The discussion also explores today’s shifting economic and geopolitical landscape, with John offering a candid perspective on risk, cash flow, and how thoughtful portfolio construction can offer stability in volatile times.