The Business of Family
Host Tammy Buss offers an unscripted and unfiltered look at the challenges of running a family business. The show explores working with family members, succession planning, and preparing for the future of the company. Tammy brings in expert guests to answer common questions from first and second generation family business owners. It is a candid and practical resource for anyone involved in a family enterprise.
Episodes
When the Will and the Shareholders' Agreement Collide
In this episode of Family Matters: Legal Edition, Tammy Buss and Yola Ventresca are joined by Kim Cura, Partner at Lerners LLP, to explore what can happen when estate planning and corporate agreements don’t align.A founder may leave shares in the family business to a child in their will, only for a shareholders’ agreement to require those shares to be bought out when they die. The result can be un
Legacy on Repeat: The importance of Networking
Networking is often talked about as a key to business success, but are you networking with purpose?In this Legacy on Repeat episode, Tammy revisits her conversation with Barbara Kephart, founder of Projects Pivot and a project management expert, about how the right connections can open doors, create opportunities, and positively impact your business.Tune in for a conversation about making networki
Digital Asset Estate Planning for Family Business
What happens to a family business’s digital assets when an owner passes away or becomes unable to manage them?From email accounts and cloud storage to social media, intellectual property, online accounts, and AI tools, today’s businesses rely on digital assets more than ever. Yet many families don’t have a clear plan for who can access them, who owns them, or what happens to them during a transiti
Beyond the Family: Employee Ownership in Business Transitions
What happens when the future of a family business doesn’t look like passing it down to the next generation?There’s another path worth exploring: employee ownership.In our latest episode of The Business of Family, Tammy sits down with Peter Walker of Boughton Riverview Consulting to explore how employee ownership can create a different kind of transition. One that can provide owners with liquidity
When Siblings Clash: Navigating Conflict in the Family Business
When siblings work together, the business doesn’t always get a fresh start.Old family dynamics can come along for the ride.Who was the responsible one?Who was the favourite?Who always felt overlooked?Who was expected to lead?Years later, those same dynamics can show up in meetings, decision-making, disagreements, and even conversations about money and leadership.In this episode of The Business of
The Hardest Review You'll Ever Do: Performance Reviews for Family Members
What’s harder than giving a tough performance review? Giving one to your son. Or your daughter. Or your sibling.In a family business, the person sitting across the table from you might be both your employee and your family member.That can make it tempting to soften the feedback, avoid the conversation, or give someone a pass because you don’t want to damage the relationship.But avoiding accountabi
Legacy on Repeat: The Ownership Circle
In a family business, ownership isn't always as straightforward as holding shares.Family members often wear multiple hats, as owners, employees, leaders, and relatives, which can make it difficult to separate business decisions from family dynamics.In this episode of Legacy on Repeat, Tammy is joined by Shawn Bellefeuille, owner of Retirement by Design, to explore the Ownership Circle and why
Navigating the death of a sibling in a family business
When a family business loses a sibling, the impact goes far beyond the loss of a loved one.The business changes. Relationships shift. Leadership responsibilities evolve. And families are left navigating grief while still trying to keep the business moving forward.In this episode of The Business of Family Podcast, Tammy sits down with Matt Nielsen of Nielsen-Massey Vanillas to have a deeply persona
Trusts Demystified – Why Families Use Them
When people hear the word "trust," they often think it's only for the ultra-wealthy.The reality? Trusts can be a powerful tool for families who want to protect what matters most, whether that's a family business, family cottage, investments, or simply the relationships that matter across generations.In this episode of The Business of Family Podcast, Tammy sits down with Jandy Joh
Fair Pay or Family Privilege? Getting Compensation Right
Fair pay or family privilege?In a family business, compensation is rarely just about the paycheck.It's about fairness. It's about recognition. It's about trust.When family and business overlap, questions like "Why do they make more than me?" or "Should family be treated differently?" can quickly become emotional and create lasting tension.In this episode of The Busi
Legacy on Repeat: Don't leave a mess: Estate planning
A legacy isn’t just what you leave behind. It’s also the clarity you leave your family with.Too often, families avoid conversations about estate planning because they feel uncomfortable, complicated, or like something that can wait for another day. But when wishes aren’t communicated and plans aren’t documented, families can be left navigating uncertainty, difficult decisions, and unnecessary emot
Finding Your Place in the Family Business: Story of Legacy and Leadership
What does it really feel like to grow up inside a family business?For Chad Berg of Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry, the answer is layered. It’s about watching his parents build something meaningful, finding his own path within the business, and learning how to balance family relationships with business decisions.In this episode of The Business of Family Podcast, Chad shares his perspective on:💎 Growing
Growing a Business. Growing a Family. Growing a Legacy
Every family business begins with someone willing to take a chance.In 1978, Lee Michael Berg started Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry with a vision, and determination. Today, his sons are leading the business forward, proving that building a company is only part of the journey, building a legacy is what truly lasts.Whether you're a first-generation founder, preparing for transition, or part of the ne
Who Owns What? Untangling Ownership vs. Control
Who really owns the family business... and who actually controls it?They're not always the same thing.One of the biggest misconceptions we see in family businesses is assuming ownership automatically means decision-making authority. In reality, ownership and control can look very different, and misunderstanding the distinction can create conflict, confusion, and costly succession mistakes.In t
Legacy on Repeat: When is it a family business?
At what point does a business become more than just a way to earn a living?Is it when the next generation joins? When shared values shape every decision? Or when you're building something designed to last beyond yourself?In this episode of Legacy on Repeat, Tammy sits down with Martha MacDonald, Wealth Advisor with National Bank, to discuss her journey of joining her father's practice and
More Than a Family Business: Building Legacy Together
What happens when three brothers help lead the family business their parents built?In this episode of The Business of Family Podcast, Tammy Buss sits down with Scott Berg, co-owner of Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry, to explore the realities of working alongside siblings, balancing family relationships with business decisions, and carrying forward a family legacy.Scott shares his perspective on growing
Family First, Business Thrives: The Black Walnut Bakery Café Story
What does it take to successfully run a family business with your sibling?In this episode of The Business of Family Podcast, Tammy Buss sits down with Ed Etheridge, co-owner of Black Walnut Bakery Café, to discuss the realities of building and growing a family business alongside his sister.From navigating roles and responsibilities, to overcoming the devastating impact of an arson fire at their or
From Family Farm to Family Destination: The Kustermans Second-Generation Story
What does it take to successfully transition a family business from one generation to the next?In this episode of The Business of Family Podcast, Tammy Buss sits down with Steve Kustermans of Kustermans Family Farm to explore the journey from a small family farm to one of Southwestern Ontario's most beloved family destinations.Steve shares stories from growing up in the business, stepping into
Cross-border Corporate and Personal Tax Planning and How it Applies to Family Businesses
Family businesses today often extend far beyond one city, one province, or even one country.Whether it's children living abroad, international investments, cross-border operations, or family members with ties to multiple jurisdictions, the tax implications can be more complex than many families realize.In this episode of Family Matters – Legal Edition, Tammy Buss and Yola Ventresca sit down wi
Legacy on Repeat: Why using PRINT assessments is important
In this episode of Legacy on Repeat, Tammy sits down with Brett Thompson, PRINT-certified communication consultant, to unpack how understanding your unique wiring can transform the way family businesses communicate, collaborate, and grow together.When family and business overlap, complexity is inevitable. But with the right tools, conflict can become clarity and communication can become connection
Preparing NextGen Family Members Financially
Preparing the next generation for financial transition takes more than passing down wealth, it takes intentional communication, shared values, and a clear framework for what comes next.In this episode of The Business of Family Podcast, Tammy sits down with Mehendi Kamani, President & Portfolio Manager of Tall Oak Capital Advisors, to unpack what it really means to prepare NextGen family member
Leggz, Legacy & Leadership: The She’s Got Leggz Story
In this episode of The Business of Family Podcast, Tammy sits down with Donna and Bailey Pinsonneault of She’s Got Leggz, a women-led brand built on confidence, community, and bold entrepreneurship.From Donna’s journey as a CPA-turned-CEO to Bailey stepping into the business and shaping its creative direction, this conversation dives into what it really looks like to work alongside family.They ope
When Siblings Are Business Partners
What happens when siblings become business partners? In this episode, Tammy and Yola sit down with George Hamzo, Partner at Lerners LLP, to explore the legal and relational complexities of sibling-run family businesses.From ownership, control, and decision-making to roles, compensation, and accountability, the conversation highlights where family dynamics can create both strength and tension in bu
Legacy on Repeat: Taking Over a Family Business
You don’t set out to build a successful family business… sometimes, it just happens.But navigating the dynamics that come with it? That’s the real work.If you’ve ever felt alone in the challenges of working with family—this episode will remind you that you’re not.On this Legacy on Repeat episode, Tammy sits down with Terry & Justine Zavits, a mother-daughter duo who built, transitioned, and ul
Sibling Leadership & Scaling Legacy: The Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry Story
In this episode of The Business of Family Podcast, we sit down with Ryan Berg, President of Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry, to explore the journey of a second-generation family business built on strong values, trust, and long-term vision.Ryan shares the story of how his dad founded the business in 1978 and how it has grown into a multi-state operation. We dive into what it really looks like to step int
The Sweet Side of Family Business: Rousseau Chocolatier Family Business Story
What happens when love, craft, and entrepreneurship come together?In this episode, Tammy sits down with Nathalie Rousseau, Co-Founder & COO of ROUSSEAU Chocolatier, to explore what it really looks like to build a business alongside your spouse. From the early days of taking a leap together to navigating roles, relationships, and tough decisions, Nathalie shares an honest and thoughtful look be
Just Because AI Can, Doesn’t Mean You Should
Artificial intelligence is changing how business owners access information, but when it comes to legal matters, especially in family enterprises, the stakes are higher than ever.Tammy Buss & Yola Ventresca sit down with David Jordan, from Lerners LLP, to unpack:• The difference between legal information vs. legal advice• Why AI-generated answers can be misleading• Risks to confidentiality, pri
Legacy on Repeat: Why Kolbe Assessments
In family businesses, communication isn’t just about being polite, it’s about making sure everyone can contribute their best. Misunderstandings, misaligned strengths, and different approaches to work can slow things down or even create tension.That’s where tools like the Kolbe Assessment come in. Kolbe doesn’t measure personality, it measures how people take action. It shows how each family member
From Founder to Next Gen: Preparing a Family Business for What’s Next
In this episode of The Business of Family, Tammy sits down with father-and-son team Jeff Tounge and JT Tounge of Tounge Associates to talk about the real conversations behind exit planning, succession, and family dynamics.We explore:• Navigating active vs. non-active children in the business• The emotional barriers founders face when considering exitPlus, as a father and son running a firm togethe
Raising a Business While Raising a Family: Growing a Family Childcare Legacy
What does it look like when business and family all grow under the same roof?In this episode of The Business of Family Podcast, we sit down with Chantel and Zack of Pettengill Academy to talk about building a purpose-driven, first-generation childcare business from the ground up.What started as a small home-based program has grown into a thriving multi-site early childhood organization rooted in c
From Poultry to Petunias: Growing a Family Business Across Generations
What does it take to grow a family business for nearly 75 years, without losing what makes it special?In this episode, Tammy sits down with Tom Estabrook of Estabrook’s, a Maine staple that started as a poultry farm and evolved into a thriving, multi-generation garden center.From chickens to peppers to petunias, Tom shares:• How Estabrook’s evolved across four generations• What it’s really like wo
Family Matters Legal Edition: Governance in Family Business: The Structure Behind Strong Relationships
When family and business overlap, clarity matters more than ever.When people hear the word governance, they often picture big boards and corporate boardrooms, but in family businesses, governance can be the difference between harmony and conflict.In this episode, Tammy and Yola break down:• What governance really means (in plain language)• Why “we trust each other” isn’t a governance strategy• How
Legacy on Repeat: 3 Circles of a Family Business
Legacy isn’t built from just one point of view.When you look at your business through three distinct lenses — business, family, and ownership — everything changes. Decisions get clearer. Conversations get more honest. And alignment becomes possible.In this Legacy on Repeat episode, I revisit my conversation with Chris Deleaney, Trust and Estate Practitioner, lawyer, and author of The Naked Opus to
Stitching a Legacy: Building a Family Business One Thread at a Time
What happens when you mix entrepreneurship, creativity, and family —then add a campground, a quilt shop, and three very different daughters?In this episode, we sit down with Marlene Greenlaw, who shares her remarkable journey from owning a campground in Maine to opening a quilt shop rooted in passion, perseverance, and family support.Marlene and her husband David run two businesses side by side,
Leading Together: How a Family Built a Global Brand
How does a family business grow from a single founder’s vision into a global industry leader, and stay grounded along the way?In this episode, we sit down with Randy Carr and JC Carr of World Emblem, the world’s largest emblem and patch manufacturer, to explore the remarkable evolution of their family enterprise.From growing up inside the business, to navigating leadership roles, sibling dynamics,
Family Matters - Legal Edition: Don't wait for the fire: Legal advice for family enterprises
🎙️The Business of Family Podcast ⚖️ Family Matters – Legal EditionWe’ve all heard the saying: don’t wait until there’s a fire to buy insurance. The same rule applies to legal planning in family businesses. In this Family Matters – Legal Edition episode, hosts Tammy & Yola unpack why reactive legal decisions (made during conflict, crisis, or transition) often cost family enterprises far more th
Legacy on Repeat: Surrounded by Family Business but not in them
In every family enterprise, there are three circles: Family. Business. Ownership.They overlap, and where you sit shapes how you see the business and the family. But what does it mean to belong in the family circle while choosing not to be part of the business?In this Legacy on Repeat episode, I revisit a conversation with Caverleigh Tuer, my daughter-in-law, who grew up surrounded by family busine
Keeping Tradition Alive: A Family Business Camp Story
What does it take to steward a legacy across generations, while staying true to the relationships that matter most?In this episode, Tammy sits down with Howie Grossinger, Camp Owner and Director of Camp Robin Hood and Camp Walden, to explore a family business story more than six decades in the making. In this conversation, Howie shares how he and his wife, Sari, stepped into leadership, carrying f
From Family Business Roots to Building Their Own
What happens when you build a business together, as partners in life and in work?In this episode, we sit down with Grant and Erin Stahla, the husband-and-wife team behind Stahla Services, a company redefining the portable restroom and shower trailer industry with a focus on quality, values, and an exceptional customer experience.Grant and Erin share:• The realities of running a business as a marri
law and the business of farming
Farming is more than a business. It’s land, legacy, and generations working side by side. And that makes the legal side of farm family businesses uniquely complex.In this episode of The Business of Family Podcast - Family Matters: Legal Edition, Tammy Buss and Yola Ventresca are joined by Joseph Hentz of Lerners LLP to explore the intersection of farming, family, and the law.Together, they unpack
legacy on repeat: communication tools
Great family businesses don’t fail because they lack vision — they struggle when communication breaks down. In this Legacy on Repeat episode of The Business of Family Podcast, Tammy Buss revisits her conversation with communication expert Brett Thompson to unpack the tools that help families stay aligned, reduce conflict, and keep both relationships and the business healthy.Because when family and
designing more than spaces: family, legacy & leadership at Kolar Design
What happens when family, creativity, and legacy come together?In this episode of The Business of Family Podcast, Tammy sits down with Kelly Kolar and Audrey Eyman of Kolar Design for a candid mother–daughter conversation about building an award-winning design firm while navigating the realities of working together as family.They talk about:• The early days of Kolar Design• Stepping into , and mak
Start the Year Right: One Question Every Family Business Should Ask
Happy New Year! As we step into a brand-new year, this short episode of The Business of Family offers a simple, practical way to create clarity and alignment, without resolutions.Instead of long list of goals, Tammy Buss invites families to pause and reflect on one powerful question:What does success look like for us this year—as a family and as a business?In this episode, you’ll explore:• Why ali
Traditions in Business and at Home: How Shared Rituals Strengthen Families
Happy Holidays! As we head into the Christmas season, Tammy Buss reflects on the small, but powerful traditions that quietly shape family enterprises.In this short episode of The Business of Family, we explore how shared rituals, at work and at home, create rhythm, belonging, and connection across generations. From meaningful business traditions to simple family moments around the holidays, this e
Family Law and Family Business – Avoiding Pitfalls
When family and business overlap, the legal stakes are higher than most people realize. In this episode, Tammy & Yola sit down with Erin Reid of Lerners LLP to unpack where family law and family business collide—and how to avoid the legal pitfalls that can put both your company and your relationships at risk.We dive into:• Why divorce, separation, and major life events hit family businesses di
legacy on repeat: retirement in a family business - is there such a thing
Legacy on Repeat is back with a conversation every family business owner needs to hear.In this episode, Tammy sits down with Shawn Bellefeuille of Buss Financial Group and Retirement by Design to break down what it really takes to transition out of the business you built.Retire, hand it down, or sell? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer — but there is a way to plan with clarity.Listen in for pract
honouring the past, leading the future: 4 generations of Chalmers Insurance
What does it take to lead a 4th-generation family business into the future—without losing the heart of what made it great?In this episode of The Business of Family Podcast, Tammy sits down with Dottie Chalmers Cutter, 4th Generation Owner and COO of Chalmers Insurance Group, recorded on the road in Maine—our first podcast recorded outside the studio!Dottie shares her personal journey growing up in
taxes, death, and family business: planning before and after
Only two things are certain in life — death and taxes.But in family business, how those two collide can shape your family’s future.In this episode of The Business of Family Podcast, Tammy sits down with Anthony Falcone Lawyer at Falcone Law Professional Corporation and Richard Rizzo Tax Partner at Bateman MacKay LLP to talk about what happens before and after the inevitable — and how the right tax
family business shareholder disputes
When ownership and family collide, things can get complicated. This week, Tammy and Yola sit down with Mitchell Brown, Partner at Lerners LLP, to unpack one of the toughest topics in family business: shareholder disputes.From unclear roles and generational tensions to buyout disagreements and succession battles — Mitchell shares legal insights and practical ways families can protect both their bus
legacy on repeat: failing to communicate
This week we’re revisiting a powerful conversation with Brett Thompson, an expert who knows the impact words—and silence—can have in business.In this episode, we tackle one of the biggest mistakes business owners make: failing to communicate. From navigating family dynamics to managing employees, Brett breaks down the 3 key elements of communication and shares how to keep the lines open to drive p
foundations of family – the father–son story behind CCR Build + Remodel
What does it take to build both a business and a legacy? 🏠In this episode, Tammy sits down with Arne and Peder Madsen — the father–son duo behind CCR Build + Remodel.From humble beginnings to a thriving design-build company, Arne shares how CCR was founded and the values that built its foundation, while Peder reflects on growing up in the business and stepping into leadership.Together, they open u
what every family business should learn
In this episode, Tammy sits down with David Simpson, Director of the Business Families Centre at the Ivey Business School, to explore the intersection of education, entrepreneurship, and family legacy.A former professional hockey player turned entrepreneur and educator, David shares how his diverse career shaped his understanding of what makes family businesses thrive—or struggle.From generational
From Pop Icon to Family Enterprise: The Business of Taylor Swift
What does Taylor Swift have in common with your family business? More than you think.In this episode, co-hosts Tammy Buss of BlueRoots and Yola Ventresca of Lerners unpack the Taylor Swift machine: family business & legal lessons.💡 We explore:How Taylor’s parents and brother play key roles in her success.The legal side of building and protecting a global brand.What every family business can le
legacy on repeat: the mistakes of a family business
This week we’re bringing back a powerful conversation with Peder Madsen, owner of CCR Build + Remodel in London, Ontario.In this episode, we dive into the tough realities of second-generation ownership—the mistakes made, the lessons learned, and the achievements that shaped the journey.If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to carry forward a family business legacy, this replay is packed wit
the glue that holds us together: a family business story
In this episode of The Business of Family Podcast, Tammy Buss sits down with Dean Tansman, Vice President of Operations at A World of Wipes (AWOW), to explore the story of a family business rooted in innovation, responsibility, and legacy.Dean shares how his father, Avi Tansman, founded AWOW in 1991 and how growing up alongside the business shaped his own path. Now working side by side, Dean and A
tradition meets tech: family business in the age of AI
Artificial Intelligence is changing the way we work, lead, and grow—but what does that mean for family businesses rooted in tradition?This week on The Business of Family Podcast, Tammy Buss sits down with Shaara Roman, Founder & CEO of Silverene Group, to explore how AI and organizational culture intersect—and why keeping your people at the center is the key to success.We dive into:🤖 How AI ca
brothers in business - carrying forward the Rubinet legacy
A few weeks ago, we sat down with Domenic Luisi, founder of Rubinet Faucet Company, to hear the origin story of a brand built to last.Now, we hear from the next generation. Tammy Buss interviews Michael and Frank Luisi to explore their journey of stepping into leadership, defining their roles as brothers in business, and balancing their father’s legacy with their own vision for Rubinet’s future.In
introducing our new segment on the law and family business
We’re thrilled to introduce Family Matters: Legal Edition — a brand-new monthly segment of The Business of Family Podcast!Co-hosted by Tammy Buss (Founder of BlueRoots Inc.) and Yola Ventresca (Managing Partner at Lerners LLP), this series dives into the often-overlooked legal side of family business. From governance and ownership to conflict resolution, shareholder agreements, and succession plan
when family and business collide
Family businesses are built on legacy—but sometimes that legacy causes more conflict than clarity.Doug Noll is back on the podcast to explore the emotional undercurrents of family business disputes and how to navigate them with empathy, structure, and foresight.Whether you’re passing the torch or still holding it, don’t miss Doug’s expert advice.#BusinessOfFamily #LegacyPlanning #FamilyConflict #D
legacy on repeat: setting up structure for success
🎙️ Legacy on Repeat – We’re rewinding the tape and revisiting one of our most practical and insightful conversations.In this episode, Tammy Buss sits down with Brett Thompson, a business consultant who helps owners stop working in their business and start working on it.Brett and Tammy discuss why having a plan makes your business worth more, how to align your vision with your values, and the tool
legacy on repeat: accounting for success
✨ Legacy on Repeat ✨This week we’re bringing back a powerful conversation with Andrew Moss, CPA, CA, Partner at BDO Canada LLP.In this episode, we dive into the critical role financial guidance plays in setting your business up for long-term success.If you’ve ever wondered when is the right time to call in a professional, this conversation is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.🎧 Tune in n
legacy on repeat: evolution of a family business - Hangar 9
🎙️ Legacy on RepeatWe’re rewinding the tape and bringing back one of our most inspiring conversations.In this episode, Tammy sits down with Lisa Ferguson, CMO of Hangar 9 in London, Ontario — a family business led by strong women entrepreneurs who are paving the way for others to follow.Lisa shares the growing pains, pivotal moments, and bold decisions that shaped Hangar 9 into the success story i
legacy on repeat: the WHY
🎙️ Legacy on Repeat – a new segment from The Business of FamilyWe’re rewinding the tape and bringing you one of our mostimpactful conversations from the past in a new segment we’re calling Legacy on Repeat.We’re kicking it off with The Why — where it all began.In this foundational conversation, Tammy sits down with herhusband Gerard and sons William and Edward to reflect on building their family b
built to last: how Rubinet became a generational brand
On this week's episode, we chat with Dominic Luisi. Dominic built Rubinet Faucet Company from the ground up — long before there was talk of legacy, succession, or second-generation leadership.In this episode, Dominic shares what it took to grow a business while raising a family, and how his sons eventually found their way into the company — on their own terms.We talk about the early days, the
from family roots to marketing routes
What happens when science meets storytelling—and family meets business?Meet cousins and co-founders Angela and Travis, the powerhouse duo behind Tipton Franklin Marketing Strategies, who are redefining what’s possible for AgTech and Biotech brands. 🌱🔬In this episode, we dive into:✨ How their family dynamics fuel their professional collaboration🔬 Angela’s shift from lab bench to boardroom🚜 How grow
fair vs. equitable: understanding the real dynamics in family business
👨👩👧👦 Is “fair” always “equal” in a family business? Not quite.We’re joined once again by Dr. Sarah Burrows, professor of Entrepreneurship at Queen’s University, to unpack the often-misunderstood fair vs. equitable debate through the lens of the Three-Circle Model.Together, we explore:🔸 How your perspective (owner, family, or business) can shape your definition of fairness🔸 Why a one-size-fits-a
protecting the family brand: intellectual property essentials
In this week’s episode, we sit down with Andrea Henry, business lawyer and intellectual property strategist who specializes in helping entrepreneurs and family businesses safeguard what they’ve built.From trademarks and branding to proprietary systems and family legacy, Andrea shares real-life cautionary tales and smart legal strategies for protecting your intellectual property—before conflict ari
stopping fights before they start: conflict resolution for family business and beyond
In this episode, we welcome Doug Noll—lawyer turned peacemaker, mediator of over 2000 disputes, and conflict resolution expert trusted by everyone from Fortune 500 family businesses to maximum-security prisons.Doug shares:✅ The surprising emotional skill that instantly defuses tension✅ How to navigate conflict in family businesses with empathy and validation✅ Practical tools like affect labeling t
Shut up, Listen and Compromise: From Opposite Sides to One Powerful Team
In this episode, we sit down with Mitchell J. Panter, Managing Partner of Panter, Panter & Sampedro, to hear how he and his brother turned their different legal beginnings—defense vs. plaintiff—into the foundation of one of Miami’s most respected personal injury law firms.Mitch opens up about:✅ The challenges and rewards of working with family✅ How they balance brotherhood with business✅ Succe
building boxes and a legacy: family business, loyalty & leadership
What does it take to build a business that lasts generations — and keeps its people for decades?On this episode, we sit down with Derek Volk, third-generation owner of Volk Packaging Corporation, to hear how his family grew a thriving packaging business rooted in loyalty, purpose, and service. With nearly half of his team staying 10+ years (and some over 20!), Derek shares lessons on leadership, f
not planning is a mistake: start planning and start planning early
Succession planning is one of the most critical—and complex—challenges facing family businesses today. How do you prepare the next generation while honoring the past? How early should you start? What pitfalls must you avoid?In this insightful conversation with John Ursin, the Managing Partner of Schenck Price, we explore:✅ Why succession planning is essential for survival and growth✅ The most comm
sister act: growing a family empire in medical aesthetics
We’re joined by powerhouse sisters Dominique Waples-Trefil, JD and Dr. Flora Waples — the dynamic duo behind RESTOR Medical Spa, one of Denver’s top medical aesthetics and functional medicine practices.From walking away from law and medicine to build a brand that’s redefining aging, to navigating the challenges (and joys) of working with family, Dominique and Flora share the real story behind thei
from living room to boardroom: navigating family business
This week on the podcast, I sit down with Dr. Sarah Burrows, professor of Entrepreneurship at Smith School of Business, to explore the unique dynamics of family businesses.We dig into:💬 Why family communication is the biggest success—or failure—factor 🧠 The shift from entrepreneurial illbeing to wellbeing👨👩👧👦 Succession vs. continuity: what's the real difference? 🔍 Why understanding family
dream it. build it. pass it on.
Jane Antoniak, Strategic Communication Consultant, sits down with podcast host, author and advisor Tammy Buss to talk about her powerful new book: Dream it, Build it, Pass it on: How to Align Values, Vision, Mission.They discuss:- Why don’t more first-generation businesses stay in the family?- Are we avoiding the hard conversations?- How can values-based vision—and some honest planning—change the
legacy, leadership & letting go
What does it take to steward a 114-year-old family business through change while staying true to your values?In this powerful episode, we sit down with Amy Stein—former executive and fourth-generation family member of Henry’s, Canada’s largest independent imaging retailer. Amy shares her journey of growing up in a multi-generational business, leading through transformation, and ultimately guiding
policies with purpose: strengthening the family business
🎙️ New Podcast Alert: In this episode, we chat again with Wendy MacIntyre, Founder of Resolve HR. Running a family business comes with unique challenges — and having the right policies in place can make all the difference. In this episode, we dive into the essential procedures every family business should consider, from conflict resolution and succession planning to confidentiality, employment sta
wellness, family and finding your flow
What happens when burnout leads to breakthrough? 💧✨In this episode, we chat with the inspiring founder of Voda Retreats, Rebekah Streeter Rad about her powerful journey from running a family-owned bed and breakfast to building a wellness brand with purpose.She opens up about how personal experiences with burnout shaped the mission behind Voda Retreats, and how her background in her family's da
wine, wisdom and working together
Ever wondered what it’s like to build a business — and a legacy — with your family? 🍇Join Greg and Yannick Wertsch of Between the Lines Winery as they share the story of their family’s journey from their winemaking roots to creating one of Ontario’s leading wineries! 🍷In this episode, we dive into the challenges and rewards of running a business as brothers, how they manage family dynamics, and th
championing change: from vision to value
What if your family business could change lives and give back to your community?Join me as I sit down with Jody Steinhauer, Chief Bargain Officer of the Bargains Group and founder of Engage and Change, where she shares her journey from entrepreneur to social advocate. Discover how Jodi’s initiatives—like survival kits for the homeless and employee-led charitable programs—show the power of business
passing the torch: keeping the peace in succession planning.
How do you keep the peace in succession planning to avoid family disputes?Join me as I sit down with estate litigation lawyer Kimberly Cura, a partner at Lerners LLP, where she pulls back the curtain on the complex world of family estate disputes. We dive deep into the potential landmines of estate planning, family business succession, and the critical importance of communication.Learn how well-in
