Ep.4: Reputation as a core asset: protecting what money cannot buy

In this episode, our experts explore why reputation should be treated as a vital personal and business asset.

Date Wednesday, 19 November 2025

Welcome to Signed & Sealed, the go-to podcast from Foot Anstey for everything succession and tax. Join our expert team and guest speakers as we dive into the big questions and the finer details around planning for the future. From smart succession strategies and wealth preservation to wills, power of attorney, probate and beyond, this series offers practical insights, expert tips and real-world advice to help you stay one step ahead.

In our fourth episode, our experts explore why reputation should be treated as a vital personal and business asset. Partner, Rachel Brooks and Managing Associate, Robert Davies are joined by Melanie McGuirk, Partner to share insights into managing reputational risks, responding to crises and putting proactive systems in place to mitigate the harm and stress of press scrutiny, particularly for high-net-worth individuals, family offices and business leaders who value discretion and legacy protection.

What's in this episode?

The conversation explores what reputation management really means and how perception, trust and public image affect personal and commercial integrity and credibility.

It considers why reputation should be viewed as a valuable asset, central to brand identity, to be safeguarded and shielded from erosion and attack.

Key threats are examined, from online defamation and privacy breaches to misinformation and intrusive media coverage, and how the harm from sensationalised stories can be mitigated and best navigated.

The episode concludes with practical steps for preparing and responding effectively to the threat of a PR crisis or exposé, including communication policies, governance frameworks and professional support, which in combination form the backbone of effective and strategic reputation management.

Podcast speakers

Useful resources

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Ep. 4: Reputation as a core asset: protecting what money can’t buy