Courageous Conflict

Join us as Sandi Bragar, Chief Client Officer at Aspiriant, and Cammie Doder, Chief Marketing Officer and partner at Aspiriant, unravel the intricate world of finances within family-run businesses. Sandi takes us on her personal journey from the technical side of financial planning to embracing the emotional discussions about money that often go unspoken. Meanwhile, Cammie Doder shares her reflections on how a scarcity mindset can shape one's financial perspective and the intentional steps needed to overcome such barriers. Together, we shed light on the courage required to have meaningful conversations about finances and how these discussions can transform family dynamics.

We delve into the fabric of family ties, exploring how money, values, and family narratives are deeply interwoven. Each credit card statement becomes a revelation, uncovering whether our expenditures align with our personal principles. Through compelling stories of family businesses, we discuss the delicate balance between shared and individual values across generations, punctuated by an illustrative tale of a couple whose differing aspirations stirred conflict. We consider how our family narratives around money, often driven by fear and protection, shape our perceptions and behaviors, influencing how we view success and security.

Acknowledging the shame and secrecy that often surround financial matters, we take a bold step towards fostering an environment where open dialogue can flourish. By embracing a growth mindset, individuals and families can move beyond societal judgments and self-imposed limitations, unlocking potential for personal and financial growth. Sharing these personal experiences not only empowers us but also enhances familial relationships — an essential step for future generations. We invite our listeners to engage further by sharing their thoughts and stories, helping us build a community committed to courageous conversations about money.

Connect with Cammie:

Connect with Cammie on LinkedIn

Connect with Sandi:

Connect with Sandi on LinkedIn

Learn more about Money Tales:

https://aspiriant.com/podcasts/ 

Learn more about Aspirant:

https://aspiriant.com/ 

Sandi’s Bio:

Sandi is the Chief Client Officer at Aspiriant and leads their Planning, Strategy & Research team. The group is responsible for Aspiriant's state-of-the-art wealth planning platform that fosters intimate client relationships and helps families navigate the complex facets of their financial lives. Sandi also co-hosts our Money Tales podcast. Sandi has been frequently quoted in the media, including CNBC, Bloomberg TV and Radio, Fox Business News, Yahoo! Finance, The Wall Street Journal, and the San Francisco Chronicle. Among other accolades, Sandi has been named one of Forbes America’s Top Women Advisors and Best-In-State Wealth Advisors in 2024.

Cammie’s Bio:

Cammie is the Chief Marketing Officer and a partner of Aspiriant. Cammie is also a member of the Executive Committee, National Leadership Team, and co-host of the Money Tales podcast. Cammie is a marketer at heart, working in a client-centric, fiduciary-focused firm, which means she is a listener, educator, and advocate, first and foremost. Cammie is passionate about empowering our current and prospective clients by helping them navigate the murky waters of the industry to make informed decisions about their financial lives. Outside the office, Cammie spends time with her husband and two daughters. They are either enjoying their local environs or visiting family in Southern California, on the East Coast or in Ireland.

Connect with Dr. Donna:

LinkedIn | https://www.drdonnamarino.com/

Learn more about Dr. Donna’s Executive Coaching:

• Get your copy of Dr. Donna’s book, Unleash the Wise Leader in You! on Amazon.
• Learn more about Leadership & Team Trainings for Family Businesses
• Find out if our Women’s Leadership Group is right for you.

Podcast Category:

Business: Management

Business: Careers

Podcast Artist Name: Dr. Donna Marino

Show Email: [email protected]

Show Website URL: https://www.drdonnamarino.com/

Ever wondered how unresolved family dynamics can affect a business? Join me, Dr. Donna, alongside Yael Sivi, the insightful co-founder of Collaborative Coaching, as we explore the fascinating intersection of psychology and family-run businesses. We're breaking down the complexities of these unique environments and showing how psychological insights can foster emotionally intelligent and collaborative workplaces. Yael shares her journey from psychotherapy to coaching and highlights the growing demand for therapeutic skills in contemporary work settings, especially among younger generations who are shifting the workplace culture.

Discover how unresolved personal issues can manifest in professional settings and sometimes lead to conflict, especially within family-owned businesses where personal and professional lines may blur. We discuss the importance of moving beyond the victim-villain mindset and introduce frameworks like Transactional Analysis to help individuals operate more consciously. With a focus on honest communication, we offer strategies to ensure everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. By understanding these dynamics, listeners can improve both personal and professional relationships and create healthier environments.

Finally, we delve into personal growth and responsibility's transformative power. Drawing Yael's book "Growing Up at Work," we explore origin wounds and how they resurface in workplace relationships. By taking responsibility for personal development, you can positively influence team dynamics and business success. We highlight the importance of apologies and taking ownership to repair workplace relationships and even touch on sibling-like rivalries within teams. Packed with anecdotes and practical advice, this episode aims to inspire a journey of self-awareness, curiosity, and leadership growth.

Connect with Yael Sivi: 

Connect with Yael on LinkedIn

Learn more about Collaborative Coaching LLC:

www.collaborative-coaching.com

Yael Sivi Bio: 

Yael is the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Collaborative Coaching, as well as the author of "Growing Up at Work". As a consultant, executive coach, psychotherapist, and keynote speaker with over twenty years experience working in Fortune 1000 companies, non-profit organizations, and government agencies, Yael’s focus is on supporting leaders and teams to be more conscious, collaborative, and emotionally mature. In 2021, Yael was named by Influence Digest as one of the top 10 executive coaches in New York City.

Connect with Dr. Donna:

LinkedIn | https://www.drdonnamarino.com/

Learn more about Dr. Donna’s Executive Coaching:

• Get your copy of Dr. Donna’s book, Unleash the Wise Leader in You! on Amazon.
• Learn more about Leadership & Team Trainings for Family Businesses
• Find out if our Women’s Leadership Group is right for you.

Podcast Category:

Business: Management

Business: Careers

Podcast Artist Name: Dr. Donna Marino

Show Email: [email protected]

Show Website URL: https://www.drdonnamarino.com/

Join us as we embark on an insightful journey into the world of family-run enterprises with our special guest, Catherine Sayer, CEO of the Family Business Association in Australia. Catherine shares her compelling story, starting from her origins in Adelaide, South Australia, through her experiences in marketing, consulting, and governance, which ultimately led her to her current influential role. We explore the unique challenges and opportunities faced by family businesses, emphasizing the importance of advocacy and raising awareness for this often-overlooked sector. Catherine introduces us to the concept of the "silent sector," highlighting the profound economic and social contributions of family businesses, and we draw parallels between advocacy efforts in Australia and the United States.

Listen in as we discuss the camaraderie and support systems within family business organizations, underscoring the significance of trust and communication. We explore the array of events and educational opportunities available to members, from conferences to local networking events, and the importance of accredited family business advisors. I share my excitement about joining Loyola University's Family Business Center as a facilitator, focusing on the role of psychology in understanding family dynamics and the necessity of courageous conversations. These conversations are crucial for strengthening relationships and fostering creativity, especially when navigating complex dynamics like succession planning.

Our discussion also touches on the essential topic of succession planning in family businesses, with an emphasis on the need for readiness at any time due to unforeseen events. We highlight the importance of open, honest conversations within the family to ensure smooth transitions, whether passing the business to the next generation or considering a sale. Key points include addressing potential biases and ensuring the right person takes over, regardless of birth order or gender. We conclude by exploring the critical role of advisors, the value of diversity within boards, and the importance of fostering connections through family business conferences, offering a supportive environment for sharing heartfelt stories and experiences.

Connect with Catherine Sayer: 

Connect with Catherine on LinkedIn

Learn more about the Family Business Association:

familybusinessassociation.org

Catherine Sayer Bio: 

Catherine Sayer is the CEO of Family Business Association, a membership based organization representing family businesses which account for 70% of all businesses in Australia. With more than 1.4 million family businesses of all sizes – small, medium and large she has a focus on raising the profile of the sector. She leads a team across Australia and New Zealand delivering unique programs focussed on helping family businesses thrive. She is the previous Chief Executive Officer of Food South Australia Inc. with offices in Adelaide, Japan and China, developing and delivering programs across areas of market development, capacity and capability building and advocacy for the food and beverage industry. Catherine has a focus on building a reputation as the voice of industry to government and has strong stakeholder engagement skills.

Catherine graduated with a degree in Business Management, majoring in Marketing . Since that time she has worked with organisations across a number of sectors, both private and public, and ran a marketing consultancy prior to joining Food South Australia.

Catherine is currently Deputy Chair of Seafood Industry Australia. Previously she has held Chair, Deputy Chair and member roles of a number of agribusiness, seafood, charity and sporting boards and committees. Catherine is a member and graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

Connect with Dr. Donna:

LinkedIn | https://www.drdonnamarino.com/

Learn more about Dr. Donna’s Executive Coaching:

• Get your copy of Dr. Donna’s book, Unleash the Wise Leader in You! on Amazon.
• Learn more about Leadership & Team Trainings for Family Businesses
• Find out if our Women’s Leadership Group is right for you.

Podcast Category:

Business: Management

Business: Careers

Podcast Artist Name: Dr. Donna Marino

Show Email: [email protected]

Show Website URL: https://www.drdonnamarino.com/

What happens when family ties extend into the boardroom? Join me, Dr. Donna, as we welcome Jill Hofmans, the executive director of the Conway Center for Family Business, to unravel the complexities of family-run enterprises. Jill's personal journey from Southern California to Ohio, driven by family circumstances, sparked her passion for the nonprofit sector, leading her to the Conway Center. Together, we explore the vital role that organizations like the Conway Center play in supporting family businesses, which make up a staggering 80% of enterprises worldwide. Through Jill’s personal anecdotes, including her family's foray into the thoroughbred racing industry, we examine the unique challenges faced when family dynamics intersect with business operations.

How do you bridge the gap between generations under one family business roof? Jill and I delve into the intricate world where Baby Boomers, Millennials, and Generation Z navigate their roles, sometimes blurring the lines between family and business responsibilities. We emphasize the importance of communication and peer support, sharing insights from peer advisory groups like those at Loyola's Family Business Center. These groups provide a safe haven for family business members to tackle issues ranging from mental health to role clarity, particularly in the wake of COVID-19. We discuss real-world challenges like addressing a parent by their first name at work and the often-overlooked necessity of external support through coaches and advisors.

In a world post-COVID, where the debate about remote work continues to evolve, family businesses face unique pressures. Jill and I examine the rising generation's struggle to balance relentless business demands with the need for personal growth and legacy-building. We highlight the crucial role of community support through peer groups, coaches, and therapists, creating a network of shared understanding. Celebrating the entrepreneurial spirit, we stress the significance of fostering connections and personal development to ensure the longevity and success of family enterprises. As we engage with our audience, we invite feedback and stories that enrich this ongoing conversation about family business dynamics.

Highlight Time Stamps:

(00:00) Family Business Dynamics and Challenges

(14:19) Navigating Generational Values in Family Businesses

(19:22) Navigating Family Business Challenges

(28:47) Family Business Next Gen Challenges

(43:08) Balancing Family Business Post-Covid

(50:46) Engaging With Audience for Feedback

Connect with Jill Hofmans:

Connect with Jill on LinkedIn

Learn more about Conway Center:

Website: www.familybusinesscenter.com

Jill Hofmans Bio: 

Jill first joined the Conway Center For Family Business in 2013. As Executive Director, she works closely with our members including facilitating the C-Level peer groups, developing educational program content and delivery, as well as engaging with business and community leaders throughout Central Ohio.

Jill has worked, volunteered, and held internships in non-profit organizations most of her adult life. It is no surprise, then, that she has a passion for connecting with and serving others. She currently serves on the board of Small Biz Cares.

Jill earned a Bachelor’s degree, with honors, from Pitzer College (Claremont, CA) and a Master’s degree (Phi Kappa Phi) in Women’s Studies from San Diego State University.

In her free time, she creates irreverent cross stitch samplers and enjoys happy hour with clients and friends, especially if the venue makes a well-crafted, dirty vodka martini.

Connect with Dr. Donna:

LinkedIn | https://www.drdonnamarino.com/

Learn more about Dr. Donna’s Executive Coaching:

• Get your copy of Dr. Donna’s book, Unleash the Wise Leader in You! on Amazon.
• Learn more about Leadership & Team Trainings for Family Businesses
• Find out if our Women’s Leadership Group is right for you.

Podcast Category:

Business: Management

Business: Careers

Podcast Artist Name: Dr. Donna Marino

Show Email: [email protected]

Show Website URL: https://www.drdonnamarino.com/

Episode Summary:

Can avoiding conflict actually harm your business more than aggressive behavior? Join me, Dr. Donna, as we unravel this hidden dynamic in family-run enterprises. Diving deep with business owners, experts, and employees, we explore how embracing diverse thoughts and fostering healthy conflict can pave the path for longevity and innovation. While aggressive and passive-aggressive styles are often discussed, this episode shines a light on the silent saboteur—the person who never speaks up. Through examples like the fate of companies such as Nokia, we reveal how a lack of diverse thinking can stifle growth.

Discover how cultural expectations, particularly for women, can shape these silent conflict styles and what leaders can do to encourage open dialogue. This episode is packed with practical strategies to help your family business thrive across generations without sidelining family ties. Whether you're grappling with courageous conflict or seeking to enhance your leadership team's effectiveness, this conversation offers valuable insights and actionable advice for creating a legacy built on innovation and collaboration.

Book your complimentary consultation with Dr. Donna, today and see if executive coaching is right for you:

https://www.drdonnamarino.com/book-a-call

Connect with Dr. Donna:

LinkedIn | https://www.drdonnamarino.com/

Learn more about Dr. Donna’s Executive Coaching:

• Get your copy of Dr. Donna’s book, Unleash the Wise Leader in You! on Amazon.
• Learn more about Leadership & Team Trainings for Family Businesses
• Find out if our Women’s Leadership Group is right for you.

Podcast Category:

Business: Management

Business: Careers

Podcast Artist Name: Dr. Donna Marino

Show Email: [email protected]

Show Website URL: https://www.drdonnamarino.com/

Episode Description: 

What if maintaining family harmony could be the key to your business's success across generations? Join us as we bring you an engaging conversation with Stephanie Larscheid, Executive Director of the Prairie Family Business Association, who knows family businesses from the inside out, having grown up on a family farm herself. Stephanie shares her unique insights into the world of family-run enterprises, highlighting the crucial role of communication and community. Discover how tools like live case studies and peer groups provide a confidential platform for families to tackle both triumphs and challenges, fostering a robust support system for thriving businesses.

Ever wondered how Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) could reshape the future of your family business? Our exploration into the strategic use of ESOPs reveals how they preserve ownership while offering benefits to employees, even in third and fourth-generation businesses. With Stephanie's guidance, we unravel the importance of innovation, adaptability, and the valuable insights peer groups provide in these complex environments. Learn how the Prairie Family Business Association plays a pivotal role in succession planning and governance, ensuring family businesses have the resources they need to navigate multi-generational challenges.

Strengths assessments, a board of advisors, and a Chief Family Officer—these are not just buzzwords but strategic assets for family businesses aiming for longevity. Stephanie reveals how leveraging these tools can offer diverse perspectives and strategic guidance, filling any expertise gaps within the team. Regular family meetings, facilitated by an impartial third party, can keep discussions productive and inclusive, while fostering stronger family bonds. As the Prairie Family Business Association extends its reach through virtual meetings and upcoming conferences, it continues to build a vibrant community, empowering family businesses nationwide to thrive and succeed.

Prairie Family Business Association | www.fambus.org

Register for the 2025 Family Business Conference in Sioux Falls, SD

April 30, 2025 - May 1, 2025

https://fambus.org/2025conference/

Highlights:

(00:01) Navigating Family Business Dynamics

(11:52) Exploring ESOPs and Family Business Strategies

(22:13) Family Business Strengths and Boards

(27:47) Effective Family Business Communication

About Stephanie Larscheid:

Stephanie has served as Executive Director of Prairie Family Business Association for nearly a decade. She has a proven record of building relationships with members and developing programs that add value to family businesses. Stephanie earned her undergraduate degree from Iowa State University Ivy College of Business and a MBA from the University of South Dakota Beacom School of Business.

Connect with Stephanie Larscheid:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/slarscheid/

Connect with Dr. Donna:

LinkedIn: https://www.drdonnamarino.com/

Learn more about Dr. Donna’s Executive Coaching:

• Get your copy of Dr. Donna’s book, Unleash the Wise Leader in You! on Amazon.
• Learn more about Leadership & Team Trainings for Family Businesses
• Find out if our Women’s Leadership Group is right for you.

Podcast Category:

Business: Management

Business: Careers

Podcast Artist Name: Dr. Donna Marino

Show Email: [email protected]

Show Website URL: https://www.drdonnamarino.com/

Episode Description: 

Have you ever wondered how a family business can survive and thrive across multiple generations despite historical challenges? Join me, Dr. Donna, along with our special guest Lisa Bronner, as we unravel the incredible history of Dr. Bronner's soap empire. Born out of a century-old soap-making tradition in Laupheim, Germany, the Bronner family saga is one of resilience and rebirth. Lisa shares intimate family tales of overcoming adversity, including the rise of the Nazi party and the seismic shifts of World War II, leading to their eventual emigration and the establishment of a now-iconic brand.

Lisa and I also explore the significance of family heritage and the lessons woven into the tapestry of Dr. Bronner's history. We venture into the past through the renovation of an ancestral home in Laupheim, which now serves as both a museum and an assisted living home, and discuss the broader implications of this restoration. This labor of love underscores the importance of cross-cultural dialogue as a tool for learning and healing. We highlight initiatives like scholarships designed to promote international understanding and the enduring value of dialogue—even when opinions are divided—through heartwarming stories of friendships forged in the fires of disagreement.

In our final segment, we spotlight the unique journey of Lisa within the family business, from her unexpected transition from teaching to becoming a pivotal company educator and blogger. Discover how passion and purpose can create pathways to new opportunities, as exemplified through her blog "Going Green with Lisa Bronner" and her inspirational book "Soap and Soul." This episode is a treasure trove of insights into natural living, personal growth, and the guiding principles that have shaped Dr. Bronner's legacy. Whether you're an entrepreneur, history enthusiast, or someone seeking inspiration for healthier living, there's something here for everyone.

Highlights:

(00:01) Generational History of Dr. Bronner's

(09:16) Family Heritage and Cross-Cultural Conversations

(20:18) Family Legacy and Business Values

(33:28) Soap Company, Family Roles, Book Journey

About Lisa Bronner:

“Going green is a journey. Let’s walk together for a while and leave everything better than we found it.” – Lisa Bronner

Lisa Bronner is a prolific writer, consumer advocate, and speaker on health and green lifestyle issues. She is author of the book "Soap & Soul: A Practical Guide to Minding Your Home, Your Body and Your Spirit with Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soaps" and the blog “Going Green with Lisa Bronner.” She is the granddaughter of Dr. Emanuel Bronner, founder of Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soaps — the top-selling natural brand of soaps in North America and producer of other organic body care and food products. 

Lisa helps many make the transition to a healthier home and lifestyle. Additionally, she is a vocal proponent for regenerative organic agriculture, fair trade, transparency in product labeling, and other issues related to consumer safety, social justice and environmental sustainability. 

Lisa’s book "Soap & Soul" provides over 85 Green-It-Yourself recipes for caring for one’s home and body using Dr. Bronner’s products and other simple ingredients. Woven throughout this practical text are personal stories from Lisa’s own green journey, lessons learned from her life experiences as a parent, as a professional; and explanations on the science behind green cleaning – imparting readers with the confidence and knowledge to adopt a simpler, greener, and more abundant lifestyle. 

Lisa’s blog, “Going Green with Lisa Bronner,” addresses diverse topics related to green living, from personal care and G.I.Y. (Green-It-Yourself) home cleaning tips, to essays on food and family, living lightly, mindfulness and daily life encouragement. Launched in 2010, the blog includes instructional videos and an active community discussion forum.

Having graduated from Duke University with a B.A. in English, she taught high school English and journalism in Raleigh, NC. Lisa now lives in rural San Diego county with her husband and three children. You can follow her on Facebook @GreenWithLisaBronner

www.lisabronner.com | www.soapandsoulbook.com 

Learn more about Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soap: www.drbronner.com

Connect with Lisa Bronner on Social Media and checkout her Blog:

Facebook | https://www.lisabronner.com/

Connect with Dr. Donna:

LinkedIn: https://www.drdonnamarino.com/

Learn more about Dr. Donna’s Executive Coaching:

• Get your copy of Dr. Donna’s book, Unleash the Wise Leader in You! on Amazon.
• Learn more about Leadership & Team Trainings for Family Businesses
• Find out if our Women’s Leadership Group is right for you.

Podcast Category:

Business: Management

Business: Careers

Podcast Artist Name: Dr. Donna Marino

Show Email: [email protected]

Show Website URL: https://www.drdonnamarino.com/

Episode Description: 

Unlock the mysteries of human interactions with Steve Utech, the visionary behind illumix. As someone who transitioned from a background in chemistry and family therapy to shaping organizational culture, Steve shares his unique journey and profound insights into cultural dynamics within businesses. Hear how stepping away from his family enterprise allowed both his personal growth and his sister's leadership to flourish, underscoring the transformative power of understanding and measuring organizational culture and values.

Explore the delicate art of navigating cultural transitions within organizations. Steve offers guidance on clarifying and implementing values like collaboration and accountability, using customized survey assessments to ensure these values are lived out effectively in the workplace. Through Steve’s stories, see how personal experiences, such as the power of constructive criticism in supportive settings, can illuminate an organization’s core identity and help celebrate what makes it truly special.

Discover the intricacies of handling cultural changes, especially in small and family-owned businesses. Steve emphasizes the balancing act that leaders face—maintaining essential cultural elements while embracing growth. By listening to long-term employees and prioritizing adaptive strategies, leaders can align organizational values with expansion goals. Steve also touches on the importance of authentic leadership and the essential role of coaching in helping leaders manage emotions and feedback amidst significant changes. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation on understanding workplace culture and human connections.

Highlights

• (01:41) Navigating Identity in Family Business (123 Seconds)
• (04:44) Family Business Transition and Success (90 Seconds)
• (10:37) Measuring Values for Organizational Accountability (81 Seconds)
• (14:15) Discovering Organizational Unique Qualities (55 Seconds)
• (17:10) Navigating Cultural Change in Business (132 Seconds)
• (20:56) Navigating HR Challenges in Growing Businesses (111 Seconds)
• (26:11) Importance of Feedback and Employee Engagement (167 Seconds)
• (28:59) Helping Leaders Deliver Tough News (150 Seconds)
• (41:19) Defining and Measuring Company Values (91 Seconds)

About Stephen Utech: 

Steve’s life mission is to unlock the mysteries of complex human interactions to make people’s work and personal relationships more meaningful, productive, and satisfying. All things niche and complex are food for his ADHD brain. He’s a geek at heart with irreverent humor, but also has a deep love of people. An experienced leader in the areas of culture optimization, organizational effectiveness, and team development, Steve is the visionary and founder of illumyx, a People Analytics company based out of Green Bay, WI. Steve recently launched his own podcast focused on personality, team, and culture dynamics called Connecting the Dots.

Learn more about illumyx:

www.illumyx.com 

Connect with Steve Utech on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenutech/

Tune in to Connecting the Dots Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SkPBb4BPn7Qcp58J7tq61?si=96323fa15c384236

Connect with Dr. Donna:

LinkedIn: https://www.drdonnamarino.com/

Learn more about Dr. Donna’s Executive Coaching:

• Get your copy of Dr. Donna’s book, Unleash the Wise Leader in You! on Amazon.
• Learn more about Leadership & Team Trainings for Family Businesses
• Find out if our Women’s Leadership Group is right for you.

Podcast Category:

Business: Management

Business: Careers

Podcast Artist Name: Dr. Donna Marino

Show Email: [email protected]

Show Website URL: https://www.drdonnamarino.com/

Growing up in a household teeming with entrepreneurial spirit, Jenny Dinnen and Katie Rucker never imagined they would one day steer their father’s company. Yet here they are, co-presidents of a boutique firm that thrives on customer insights and market research. Join me, Dr. Donna, as I chat with these dynamic twin sisters about their unexpected journey into the family business. We delve into the delicate art of succession—guided by a family business transition consultant—and the power of mutual respect and understanding individual strengths to transform their father's legacy into something uniquely their own.

Family business dynamics can be as complex as they are rewarding. In our candid conversation, Jenny and Katie open up about the emotional intricacies of transitioning leadership roles within a family. They share the high and lows of such a vulnerable process, underscoring the importance of empathy, open communication, and recognizing distinctive communication styles in building a harmonious workplace. Through personal anecdotes about courageous conversations and setting boundaries, they reveal how embracing conflict can be a powerful catalyst for growth and mental wellness.

But the journey doesn't stop there. We also explore the invaluable role of external consultants and mentors, like those at Cal State Fullerton’s Center for Family Business, in easing transition challenges. Jenny and Katie highlight the crucial insights gained from expert guidance and mentorship, which have helped them lead with confidence during turbulent times. Moreover, we discuss the broader themes of empowering women in business, redefining success, and fostering collaborative environments that challenge traditional gender norms. Through their experiences, Jenny and Katie encourage us to step out of our comfort zones, embrace agency, and lead with courage and conviction

About Jenny Dinnen: 

A second-generation entrepreneur and leader with a profound commitment to family business, customer insights, and strategic foresight.

Family Business Advocate: Having grown up in a family business environment, I embody the spirit of entrepreneurship instilled by my visionary parents. Alongside my twin sister, Katie, I've embraced the responsibility of leading and owning our father's business. Our journey is a testament to finding our unique voices, shaping our narrative, and contributing to the vibrant family business community. I'm passionate about sharing our insights to empower and champion others navigating similar paths through our work at Next Gen Collaborative. 

About Katie Rucker:

Hey there! I’m Katie. Dive into my world where family businesses are the heroes of their own stories, and where every brand has the potential to become someone’s favorite. With 15+ years in the game, I’ve learned the ropes from the inside out, turning what some see as challenges into our biggest wins.

Transforming Family Businesses: Alongside my twin, Jenny, we’re all about shaking up how family businesses see themselves and their legacy. At Next Gen Collaborative, we’re not just talking about keeping the lights on; we’re about spotlighting what makes these businesses shine and setting them up for a future brighter than they imagined.

Check out Jenny and Katie on LinkedIn:

Jenny Dinnen: LinkedIn

Katie Rucker: LinkedIn

Learn more about how Mackenzie Corp can support you:  https://www.mackenziecorp.com/

Learn more about Next Gen Collaborative: https://nextgencollaborative.com/

Connect with Dr. Donna:

LinkedIn: https://www.drdonnamarino.com/

Learn more about Dr. Donna’s Executive Coaching:

• Get your copy of Dr. Donna’s book, Unleash the Wise Leader in You! on Amazon.
• Learn more about Leadership & Team Trainings for Family Businesses



Podcast Category:

Business: Management

Business: Careers

Podcast Artist Name: Dr. Donna Marino

Show Email: [email protected]

Show Website URL: https://www.drdonnamarino.com/

Episode Description: 

Join us on a journey into the dynamic world of family-run businesses, where I am thrilled to welcome Adam Pankoff, a seasoned sales leader at Semler Industries. With over 14 years of experience in a third-generation family business, Adam shares his inspiring transition from the corporate sphere to a more intimate company setting. He reflects on the unique sense of belonging and collaboration he has found in the family business culture and how his close relationship with the company's owner has shaped his positive experience. Gain insights into how non-family members can thrive in these enterprises and the significance of cultivating a supportive and inclusive workplace environment.

Listen in as we explore the power of a growth mindset in personal and professional development, particularly in the sales field. Through personal anecdotes, I illustrate how embracing continuous learning has been vital in overcoming challenges and rejection. Adam and I discuss the tailored approaches necessary for coaching and supporting sales teams, emphasizing the importance of understanding each team member's unique needs. We also touch on the profound impact of mentorship and how it can shape successful careers, with Adam recounting his own experiences and the guidance that steered him towards a thriving sales career.

Discover the importance of nurturing a positive work culture and the role of consultative sales in achieving business success. We delve into the intricacies of sales coaching, the challenges of hiring the right talent, and the value of open communication in aligning teams toward common goals. Drawing parallels between sales and coaching, we emphasize the need for a service mindset and genuine client relationships. Finally, we encourage building community through courageous conversations and invite listeners to engage with us, share feedback, and help grow our podcast community.

About Adam Pankoff: 

Adam Pankoff is a sales leader with over 15 years of sales experience with Semler Industries, a family owned business. He started his career as a Territory Manager helping clients solve problems and improve processes. Today, he leads a team of salespeople by educating and teaching them consultative sales approaches. His passion for coaching allows him to pay forward his knowledge and experience to help others grow and achieve their goals. 

Learn more about Semler: 

https://semlerindustries.com/

Connect with Dr. Donna:

LinkedIn: https://www.drdonnamarino.com/

Learn more about Dr. Donna’s Executive Coaching:

• Get your copy of Dr. Donna’s book, Unleash the Wise Leader in You! on Amazon.
• Learn more about Leadership & Team Trainings for Family Businesses
• Find out if our Women’s Leadership Group is right for you.

Podcast Category:

Business: Management

Business: Careers

Podcast Artist Name: Dr. Donna Marino

Show Email: [email protected]

Show Website URL: https://www.drdonnamarino.com/