The Long Game with Eric Becker
The Long Game with Eric Becker
Eric Becker
Biltmore Estate's Fifth-Generation Legacy
52 minutes Posted May 25, 2026 at 11:00 pm.
0:00
52:26
Download MP3
Show notes
What does it take to preserve America's largest privately owned home for five generations? Ryan Cecil and Chase Pickering, descendants of George Vanderbilt and fifth generation leaders of the historic Biltmore Estate, join Eric Becker to share the story behind one of America's most iconic families and the estate they've called home for over 130 years. From the Great Depression to World War II to COVID-19, they reveal the lessons learned across generations, the mic-drop moments that defined their family legacy, and the "can't stand still" philosophy that's made Biltmore one of the most visited historic homes in the United States.
 
Ryan and Chase also share insights into the family's governance, offering a rare glimpse at how legacy families operate, including high-stakes decision-making, conflict-resolution and succession planning. 
 
Key Takeaways:
  • How to be a super steward and grow a multi-generational family business
  • Best practices for succession planning and governance
  • How to balance tradition with innovation
  • Why great businesses need a "can't stand still" mindset
  • A masterclass in stewardship that blends tradition, innovation and long-term vision.

Listen and subscribe:

Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/biltmore-estates-fifth-generation-legacy/id1896628025?i=1000769554249 

Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/episode/2CWN1YCHearFB8o9UqAUgN?si=YB2L6DCYS_qPyhHGEIBh1w 

YouTube
https://youtu.be/gsrWw-EGQ-c 

Chase Pickering LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/chase-pickering-8027047/ 

Biltmore
https://www.biltmore.com/ 

Eric Becker LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ebecker1/ 

Eric Becker
https://cressetcapital.com/about/team/eric-becker/ 

The Long Game book
https://longgamebook.com/ 

Cresset website
https://cressetcapital.com/podcasts/entrepreneurs/