Most people think building wealth is about working hard, saving diligently, and leaving whatever’s left to their kids. Unfortunately, history shows that approach rarely works.
Some fortunes vanish in just one generation, while others grow stronger over decades.
The difference? It’s not luck. It’s structure.
One of the most successful examples in history is the Rockefeller family, who have preserved and grown their wealth for over six generations. Their secret is a simple yet powerful approach that you can adapt to your own life, no matter your starting point.
We call it The Rockefeller Method.
The Problem With “Just Leaving Money”
When most people pass on wealth, it’s in the form of a lump sum, whether through a will or life insurance payout. Without guidance, that money often gets spent down quickly.
History is full of examples like the Vanderbilt family, who lost one of the greatest fortunes in U.S. history within just 48 years.
The Rockefellers took a different route.
The Core of the Rockefeller Method
Instead of passing on wealth with no strings attached, the Rockefellers kept their assets together in well-structured trusts, paired with a set of guiding values.
Here’s how the method works:
- Create a Family Trust
A properly structured trust can protect assets from lawsuits, taxes, and poor spending decisions. It also ensures the wealth stays intact and can benefit multiple generations. - Turn the Trust Into a “Family Bank”
The trust’s assets aren’t simply handed out. Instead, family members can apply to borrow from it for productive purposes like starting a business, investing in real estate, or paying for education. - Use Cash Flow Banking for Funding
The trust often holds specially structured life insurance policies (Cash Flow Insurance). This provides liquidity, tax advantages, and a death benefit that replenishes the trust when someone passes away. - Pass on Values, Not Just Money
The trust can include a Statement of Purpose. This is a guiding document that outlines the family’s principles, the types of activities the wealth should support, and the expectations for those who benefit from it.
Why This Works
- Wealth Preservation – Assets are shielded from lawsuits, creditors, and irresponsible spending.
- Generational Growth – Productive loans keep money circulating within the family instead of flowing to banks or the government.
- Built-in Accountability – Borrowers must present a plan, ensuring funds are used to create more value.
- Cultural Continuity – The family’s mission and values are passed down alongside the money.
How You Can Start (Even Without a Fortune)
You don’t have to be a billionaire to implement a version of this strategy.
- Set up a basic trust and define your family’s core values.
- Explore Cash Flow Banking as a way to create liquidity and fund future opportunities.
- Decide on clear rules for how family members can access and use funds.
The key is structure plus purpose—two things that compound over time, just like money.
Bottom Line
The Rockefeller Method isn’t about hoarding wealth or controlling from the grave. It’s about empowering each generation to create more value while protecting the assets that make that possible.
If you want to build a legacy that lasts (not just for your kids, but for your grandkids and beyond) it’s worth learning how to apply this approach to your own financial plan.
Want to see how this could work for you?
Our Wealth Architects help entrepreneurs and families design customized wealth plans that integrate protection, cash flow, and legacy-building strategies without frustration, doubt, or confusion.
Apply for Your Complimentary Wealth Strategy Session to get started.
