Who We Remember

Brian Hughes

Season 1 Episode 13

We ask each of our guests a simple yet profound question: "Whose life story from your own family would you most want to have documented on film?"

Today's guest: Brian Hughes, President of Eton Advisors, a boutique Multi-family office

Brian's pick: His mother, Lavinia Busa Hughes

Summary
In this episode of Who We Remember, Jamie Yuenger sits down with Brian Hughes for a heartfelt and inspiring conversation about his extraordinary mother, Lavinia “Tootsie” Hughes. Born to Sicilian immigrants in Belmont, Massachusetts, Lavinia’s life was a testament to resilience, creativity, and generosity. From her childhood on a family farm to her vibrant role as a mother of four, she infused her life with boundless energy and love.

Brian shares vivid memories of Lavinia’s culinary magic, from her famous Italian sauces and Christmas cookies to her creative twists on leftovers, all rooted in family traditions passed down through generations. Listeners will be captivated by stories of Lavinia’s artistry, from painting and calligraphy to her unique roles as a wallpaper hanger and master cake decorator. Despite personal challenges, including her husband's battle with alcoholism, Lavinia remained a pillar of strength, exuding grace, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to her family and community.

This deeply personal episode is filled with touching anecdotes, Sicilian heritage, and life lessons about gratitude, resilience, and the importance of giving. Whether it’s learning how Lavinia “burned” her sauce for extra flavor or hearing about Brian’s emotional reconnection with his Sicilian roots, you’ll come away inspired by the legacy of a woman who truly embodied love and selflessness. Join us for a conversation that celebrates the beauty of a life well-lived and the impact one remarkable mother had on everyone she touched.

About Brian
Brian Hughes is a seasoned advisor to family offices, wealth managers, and investment advisors, with over a decade of experience helping firms grow organically in the ultra-affluent market. Brian is president of Eton Advisors, a boutique multifamily office based in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.  He joined Eaton Advisors earlier this year after 12 years consulting for ultra high net worth family wealth firms and leading growth for two private multifamily offices. He also serves on the advisory board of the Ultra High Net Worth Institute and has been the managing director of the Southeastern Family Office Forum SEFOF since 2014. He lives in Philadelphia suburb with his teenage daughter. As a kid, Brian loved being in the kitchen with his mom, whether she was preparing a family meal or baking treats, these moments left an indelible mark. 

Takeaways

- Lavinia's resilience was evident in her ability to overcome challenges.
- Family gatherings were centered around food and love.

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Visit us at storykeep.com/podcast to learn more about how StoryKeep is preserving family histories. Subscribe on your favorite platform to catch new episodes released bi-weekly, available in both audio and video formats.

Join me, Jamie Yuenger, as we go on a journey of remembrance and discovery, celebrating the stories of those we cherish. Don’t miss our enriching journey—subscribe today and be part of "Who We Remember."

Credits
Produced by Jamie Yuenger and Piet Hurkmans. Our show’s musical intro and outro is taken from the track “Thursday” by the independent artist Nick Takénobu Ogawa. You can listen and support his music on bandcamp here

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