Grief Brain

Darren Sugiyama is the founder & CEO of Lionsmark Capital, a wealth management firm that specializes in estate tax planning.

His path began in community service—as a gang prevention counselor in his hometown of Long Beach, California, a prison counselor, and an educator serving at-risk youth in the public school system. This foundation prepared Darren to launch six successful companies across life insurance, employee benefits, finance, fashion, and other sectors.

An internationally acclaimed author of twelve books, including How I Built A $37 Million Insurance Agency In Less Than 7 Years, The Icon Effect, and The Takeo Effect, Darren is a sought-after speaker in the financial sector.

After the devastating loss of his fourteen-year-old son, Estevan Kane Sugiyama, Darren found his deepest calling: supporting grieving parents. Through his nonprofit Life After Love, Darren has transformed his grief into a mission of hope, offering healing and connection to families facing loss.

He now speaks at conferences nationwide and has appeared on multiple podcasts. His unique position as a respected business leader and grieving father allows him to address this critical topic on unexpected platforms, reaching audiences who might not otherwise encounter resources for supporting grieving loved ones.

Darren’s commitment to this mission continues to evolve through his latest book Grief Brain: How to Show Up for a Grieving Loved One.