Episode Description: 

What if you could redefine success on your own terms, balancing business ambitions with personal fulfillment? Join Dr. Donna and our special guest, Ken Schmitt, founder and CEO of Turning Point Executive Search, as we explore the intriguing world of family-run businesses and entrepreneurship. Discover how Ken's journey, as detailed in his book "The Practical Optimist," sheds light on the unique challenges faced by small business owners and the concept of a "lifestyle business." We untangle the misconceptions around this term and illustrate how designing a business that aligns with personal goals can lead to satisfaction beyond traditional measures of success.

In our conversation, we navigate the delicate dance between practicality and optimism that entrepreneurs must master. Drawing insights from personal stories and family experiences, we confront the isolation many leaders endure and unveil the power of networking and mentorship as tools for growth. Ken and I share strategies to overcome comfort zones and seize growth opportunities through meaningful connections with fellow business owners, fostering a supportive ecosystem that enhances both professional and personal development.

As we wrap up, the focus shifts to leadership in modern business, highlighting the profound impact of vulnerability, authenticity, and diversity. From a compelling story of collective team decision-making to the transformative power of inclusive hiring practices, we reveal how embracing differing perspectives and fostering empathetic communication can inspire innovation and success. Tune in for practical tips on spreading positivity and engaging in courageous conversations, all designed to help you redefine personal success while building a diverse and respectful business environment.

About Ken Schmitt:

With 27 years of experience in the recruiting industry, Ken Schmitt is the Founder and CEO of TurningPoint Executive Search, author of  The Practical Optimist: An Entrepreneurial Journey Through Life's Turning Points and host of "Hiring Matters LeaderShi* Happens" podcast. Ken and his team at TurningPoint have leveraged their high-touch recruiting services to place nearly 1,000 of the nation's leading sales, marketing, operations, Finance, HR and C-Suite professionals in a variety of industries ranging from tech and software to healthcare and life sciences. In all of his endeavors, Ken supports professionals in channeling both the logical and the visionary pieces of successful leadership. In addition to moderating domestic and global leadership panels, he is the Founder of the Sales & Marketing Leadership Alliance where he spent 11 years interviewing CEOs, business leaders and entrepreneurs on a monthly basis about the best way to make an impact in the business world.

Social links:

Ken's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/schmittexecutiverecruiter/

Leadership Happens LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-practical-optimist/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leadership_happens_podcast/ 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TurningPointExecSearch/

Interested in learning more about Ken’s journey and his Practical Optimism?  Listeners can visit Ken’s website at  https://turningpointexecsearch.com/the-practical-optimist-book-podcast/ to order a copy of his book The Practical Optimist.

Listen to Ken's Podcast: Leadership Happens

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leadership-happens/id1668210065 

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/

Dr. Donna welcomes Meaghan Ziemba, a passionate industrial tech writer and advocate for women in manufacturing, to share her compelling journey. Meaghan opens up about the societal pressures she faced in high school to take the traditional college path and how she discovered her true calling in manufacturing and technical writing. Her story is a powerful reminder of the importance of exploring alternative career paths and the critical role that women play in shaping the future of the manufacturing industry.

The conversation takes a closer look at the intricacies of manufacturing, delving into the technical challenges and the high level of attention to detail required. By using relatable analogies, Dr. Donna and Meaghan discuss the broader economic impact of declining interest in manufacturing careers, especially in smaller communities. They stress the importance of tailored education that meets diverse learning needs, encouraging more young people, particularly women, to consider these rewarding and impactful careers.

As the episode unfolds, Meaghan and Dr. Donna tackle the existing gender disparities in the manufacturing sector and share insightful strategies for change. With actionable ideas such as inclusive job descriptions and robust mentorship programs, they outline how companies can attract and support women and working parents. By championing the benefits of risk-taking and travel, they inspire young listeners to break free from conventional paths and embrace the myriad opportunities available in manufacturing and engineering.

About Meaghan Ziemba: 

Meaghan Ziemba is an industrial tech writer, brand storyteller, and marketer for industrial manufacturers.  She has a B.A. and M.A. in Professional and Technical Writing from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and has been writing for manufacturing since 2008. 

Meaghan also hosts a live video broadcast series called Mavens of Manufacturing. The series focuses on women in the sector. Its mission is to attract younger generations to join manufacturing or engineering career pathways to help close the skills and gender gaps. Meaghan is a proud mother of three. She enjoys cooking, CrossFit, and a great cup of coffee or glass of whiskey.  

Find Meaghan Ziemba on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meaghan-ziemba/

Learn more about Mavens of Manufacturing:  https://www.mavensofmanufacturing.com/

Checkout Meaghan’s company Z-Ink Solutions: https://www.z-inksolutions.com/

Listen to Meaghan’s podcast: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNazsugt6JtABAtfXqQUL9Q

Connect with Dr. Donna: LinkedIn | https://www.drdonnamarino.com/

Sign up for Dr. Donna's Newsletter: https://www.drdonnamarino.com/newsletter-sign-up

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 Artist Name: Dr. Donna Marino

Show Email: [email protected]

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

How does a family business sustain its legacy across generations? Join us as we uncover the secrets with Charlie, a seasoned expert in the realm of family-owned enterprises, who brings a wealth of experience from his C-suite roles, board positions, and consulting work. In our conversation, Charlie introduces his book, "The Power of Legacy," and outlines the six pivotal elements crucial for preserving a business legacy, including governance, succession planning, and generational engagement. He underscores the necessity of involving all family members in business discussions to foster a cohesive understanding and intentional management.

Managing the integration of family members into the business can be a complex task. We discuss the unique challenges this process entails, particularly the need for industry-specific experience and a fair, transparent selection process. Charlie shares insights on the importance of mentoring and development programs, structured involvement in board meetings, and mentorship arrangements tailored to prepare family members for leadership roles. He also touches on the emotional complexities and generational perspectives that play a pivotal role when family members vie for business positions, emphasizing the need for fairness, transparency, and constructive disagreement.

Effective governance and diversity are the cornerstones of a thriving family business, and Charlie has plenty of real-world examples to illustrate this. We explore how governance structures can evolve from advisory boards to fiduciary boards, ensuring long-term success and legacy preservation. The conversation highlights the need for diversity and emotional intelligence on boards, as well as the importance of effective listening and conflict management skills. We also address common sources of conflict in family businesses—disagreements over purpose, direction, and legacy—and stress the importance of mutual respect and early communication to navigate these challenges successfully. Don’t miss this episode packed with actionable insights to help your family business flourish for generations to come!

Connect with Charlie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlesleichtweis/ 

Learn more about Experts in How: https://expertsinhow.com/

Listen to Charlie’s Podcast, The Power of respect: https://open.spotify.com/show/3qBfawk64Y3qp3QNbhVxoD?si=7ed271b056d3453b

The Power of Legacy: Engaging Generations Developing Leadership Planning Succession: https://a.co/d/3psVoYJ

The Power of Respect in Business: Enabling Your Teams to Achieve Sustainable, Profitable Growth: https://a.co/d/8uDxM1G

About Charlie Leichtweis: 

Charlie has more than 40 years’ experience in serving businesses as a C-suite executive, consulting advisor, and as a board member. 

He’s the founder of Experts in How, LLC, a business consultancy focused on helping family-owned businesses with HOW to meet the challenges they face. He has identified the connection between the major elements related to creating and sustaining a successful legacy and HOW to manage those elements.

Charlie has taught graduate school and is the author of top selling books on business leadership - The Power of Respect in Business, and on legacy - The Power of Legacy.  He’s host of the podcast, “The Power of Respect,” a popular keynote speaker, and he serves as a member of the Board of Directors for several companies.

Connect with Dr. Donna:

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

Sign up for Dr. Donna's Monthly Newsletter: https://www.drdonnamarino.com/newsletter-sign-up

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 Artist Name: Dr. Donna Marino

Show Email: [email protected]

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

Episode Description:

Ever wondered how to blend family life with a thriving business? Jamie and Kevin White, a dynamic husband-and-wife entrepreneurial duo, share their unique insights on maintaining harmony while navigating the complex world of family business. Jamie’s journey from growing up in a family business to recognizing the importance of setting limits and seeking help offers invaluable lessons. Kevin's IT background and his embrace of uncertainty bring a fresh perspective on work-life balance. Tune in to learn how mutual support can make all the difference in running a family enterprise.

Conflict in relationships can be transformative, and Jamie and Kevin's story is a testament to this. Kevin's initial aversion to conflict evolved turning frustration into constructive dialogue. Jamie’s commitment to self-growth and their marriage, despite challenges such as addiction and differing beliefs, highlights the importance of adaptability and understanding. Their discussion underscores how early childhood experiences shape conflict resolution styles and why both partners must be willing to grow for a successful relationship.

Imagine moving your family and business to a different country for alignment and growth. Jamie and Kevin contemplate a bold move to Mexico, emphasizing the role of intuition and spirituality in their decisions. They discuss how their children are part of this transformative journey, often showing surprising levels of intuition and spiritual attunement. This episode explores how operating from a place of love rather than fear can foster personal and professional growth, and why practical strategies like communication assessments and taking time for reflection are crucial in family-run businesses. Don’t miss their compelling story, filled with real experiences and inspiring tips for integrating spirituality with entrepreneurial success.

Connect with Jamie and Kevin White:

Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/believecrewjw/

Connect with Kevin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-g-white/

Follow the Believe Crew on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/believecrew/

Learn more about The Believe Crew and take a listen to their podcast:

Website: https://www.believecrew.com/

Podcast: https://shows.acast.com/believecrew/episodes

About Jamie and Kevin White: 

Believe Crew was founded by Jaime and Kevin White, passionate coaches with different yet complementary backgrounds. After years of personal and leadership development, their experience has culminated in the vision of creating a space for leaders to develop.

Jaime, a seasoned leader with over 20 years of experience in leadership (through family business), brings a wealth of knowledge in people development and coaching. Through her own journey to become a better leader, she saw a gap in the leadership industry and felt called to create a holistic approach that could help emerging & developing leaders connect with their calling and become the best versions of themselves. 

Kevin rose quickly in the tech industry and yet was still holding himself back from expanding to his full potential in leadership. As God called him to step into more and more leadership, he began to dismantle the lies that he had built so much upon, freeing himself from shame and guilt. Inspired by those who have helped him on his journey, he has fully embraced his gifts as a healer and coach, using them to serve others along their own journey as they embrace their authentic selves.

Together, we are dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment where leaders can connect with their intuition and inner guidance and unlock their full potential. Join us on this journey towards becoming a better leader and making a positive impact in the world.

Connect with Dr. Donna:

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

Sign up for my Newsletter: https://www.drdonnamarino.com/newsletter-sign-up

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:

Ever wonder how missed opportunities can shape a successful family business? Hear how Aaron Nosek and his family turned a basement operation into an industry leader despite passing on the chance to invest in Nike. This episode uncovers Keson's remarkable journey from humble beginnings, starting with Aaron's grandfather's career switch from foundry work to innovative fiberglass tape measures, and the entrepreneurial spirit that drove them forward.

Family drama and business rarely mix smoothly, and the Nosek family is no exception. Aaron shares the intense family dynamics and sibling discord that forced his father to wind down his law practice and rejoin Keson. Discover the strategic moves that Aaron and his cousins made to resolve conflicts and redefine ownership, including a crucial partnership with Austrian company Sola. As Aaron stepped into his role as president in 2001, these changes not only preserved the family legacy but also opened doors for the fourth generation.

Leading a family business through economic crises and personal challenges is no small feat. Aaron opens up about his journey from customer service to president during the 2008-2009 housing crisis, and how the company  redefined Keson's brand and values based on his grandparents' principles. Learn valuable lessons on managing family business succession, the importance of transparent communication, and the pressures of maintaining a legacy. Tune in for heartfelt gratitude to key individuals and insights that can help any family business navigate the turbulent waters of succession planning.

Connect with Aaron Nosek:

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-nosek-32611a28/

Learn more about Keson Industries: https://www.keson.com/

About Keson Industries: 

WE ARE A FAMILY OWNED COMPANY.

In 2018, the Nosek and Scheyer families joined together to form a new company – Keson LLC. Keson and SOLA are both family-owned, third generation companies currently led by the grandsons of the company founders. Keson started in 1968 in the basement of the Nosek family home in Berwyn, Illinois. SOLA started in 1949 with a leveling tool invented on the roof of the Scheyer family home in Goetzis, Austria. Both companies are leaders in measuring and marking tools, offer complementary product lines, and share very similar values. With a combined 120 years of market experience, Keson LLC builds upon Keson’s U.S. manufacturing, existing distribution network and strong relationships by adding SOLA’s European manufacturing expertise, precision engineering and industry-leading technology.

Keson is headquartered in Aurora, Illinois, and is well known in North America for providing reliable, innovative, and easy-to-use measuring and marking products to professional tradespeople who are passionate about their work. SOLA is headquartered in a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in the shadow of the Austrian Alps and is a market leader in spirit and screeding levels in 30 countries around the world. Now united, and operating from Aurora, Keson LLC will provide the outstanding products and service that will continue us to earn and keep the trust of tradespeople and of those who supply them with the tools they need.

• BE POSITIVE.
• WORK HARD.
• RESPECT OTHERS.
• HAVE FUN.
• ACT ETHICALLY.
• DO GOOD.

Connect with Dr. Donna:

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

Sign up for my Newsletter: https://www.drdonnamarino.com/newsletter-sign-up

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]

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

Episode Description:

Ever wondered how a family business can navigate the treacherous waters of personal relationships and financial hurdles? Join us as Al Zdenek, a veteran in the wealth management industry, opens up about his transformative journey from working in his father's bakery to nearly declaring bankruptcy, only to rise again with the unwavering support of his wife. Al's candid recounting of his experiences offers a nuanced look at the complexities of family dynamics in business, spotlighting how conflict can evolve into mutual respect and how setting clear expectations is essential for success.

In our conversation with Al, he shares invaluable lessons on the importance of resilience, communication, and community. Hear firsthand about the challenges he faced, including the difficult decision of letting family members go and the pivotal role of external advisors in maintaining objectivity. Al also delves into the critical moments of his late thirties, where a tough financial planner helped him turn his business around, illustrating the power of asking for help and embracing collaboration. This episode is a testament to personal growth and the importance of preserving family relationships, even when it demands tough business decisions.

Connect with Al Zdenek:

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/albertjzdenek/

Learn more about Al: https://alzdenek.com/

Pick up your copy of Master Your Cash Flow: https://alzdenek.com/book/

About Al Zdenek: 

Al Zdenek has empowered tens of thousands of people to live the lives they want now and in the future by demystifying the concepts surrounding personal finance. As a nationally recognized wealth advisor, Al’s repeatable processes and common sense approach has helped his clients make the 100% correct financial decisions at all times. He has been featured in lists of the nation’s top financial advisors, and his expertise is often consulted in media surrounding wealth building and wealth management topics. Al is a graduate of Rutgers College and Rutgers Graduate School of Business. He lives in Manhattan and Paris.

Al worked in the tax departments of Arthur Young & Company and pharmaceutical giant Merck & Co., Inc. before founding his own CPA firm. It was here, in the midst of creating tax strategies for high net worth clients and business, he stumbled upon his true calling: Financial freedom for everyone. Clients were asking questions that went beyond their taxes to the heart of their lives; Will I have enough to retire? When can I stop working? How can I live the life I want now? They wanted to understand how to make the best financial decisions that were critical to life now, their futures and their families’ security.

Al saw intelligent clients make poor—sometimes even disastrous—financial decisions simply because they lacked sound financial education and guidance. Responding to what he believed was at the core of the problem, he changed the focus of his company to provide financial education and wealth management for his clients. Through Al’s Integrated Cash Flow Management Approach ℠ and Wealth Building Formula® processes, Al and his team now assisted clients in recognizing and making the 100% correct financial decisions that allowed them to live the life they wanted now, reach their goals sooner and work less in life.

Connect with Dr. Donna:

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

Sign up for my Newsletter: https://www.drdonnamarino.com/newsletter-sign-up

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:

Growing up in a hotel teaches you more than just how to swim and ride a bike—it shapes your entire outlook on life and business. This episode brings you an intimate conversation with Libby Lok, a third-generation family business stakeholder, who shares her vibrant experiences of being a "hotel kid." Discover the invaluable life skills she gathered amidst the hustle of hotel life, and get an insider’s view into the familial bonds and cultural inclusivity that form the backbone of family-run enterprises. From creating roles tailored to individual strengths to fostering employee loyalty through traditions like potlucks, Libby reveals the unique dynamics that make family businesses so special.

Navigating cultural complexities in Chinese family businesses requires more than just business acumen; it demands a deep understanding of hierarchical, patriarchal, and collectivist values rooted in Confucian traditions. We explore the challenging balance of reconciling Western conflict resolution methods with these traditional values through Libby’s personal anecdotes. This segment offers profound insights into how cultural practices subtly shape decision-making and relationships within family firms, and underscores the importance of cultural sensitivity to foster a more inclusive work environment.

Facilitating open dialogue in a family business can feel like walking a tightrope, especially when authoritative figures resist change. Libby recounts her attempts to bring in various consultants to address business challenges, only to find that deeply ingrained family dynamics often thwarted progress. The episode takes a heartfelt turn as we discuss the difficult, yet necessary, decisions some family members must make for personal well-being, including stepping away from the business. Libby shares her healing journey, emphasizing mindfulness and introspection as tools for finding balance and creating a fulfilling life beyond the realm of the family business.

Highlight Time Stamps:

(02:10 - 04:36) Growing Up in a Hotel

(14:18 - 17:18) Themes in Chinese Family Businesses

(23:19 - 25:33) Conflict Resolution in Family Business

(27:56 - 29:17) Family Business Facilitation for Change

(35:01 - 36:44) Navigating Pressure as Family Business Consultants

(38:11 - 39:28) Family Business Consultant's Use of Humor

(45:22 - 47:33) Finding Balance in Career and Parenthood

Connect with Libby Lok:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/libbylok/ 

About Libby Lok:

Libby Lok is a third generation family business stakeholder and Family Business Consultant. She grew up as a hotel kid living at one of her family's hotels - learning to swim, riding a bike, befriending all the hotel staff and guests. After college she spent ten years in the social sector doing strategic planning, community engagement, consulting, and applied research. At a turning point in the family business, Libby thought she could lend her skills to her family to figure out their short and long term goals. However it was much more complicated than anyone anticipated. After being promoted to President of her family business, and four consultants later, Libby encountered too much resistance and with a heavy heart left. Upon her job search Libby stumbled upon the field of Family Business Consulting and began to create the advising services she once desperately searched for. Currently Libby lives on the Central Coast of California with her husband and two young children. Libby helps families work together in finding cohesion in their strategy because she believes family businesses are precious and can actually be sustained for generations. 

Connect with Dr. Donna:

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

Sign up for my Newsletter: https://www.drdonnamarino.com/newsletter-sign-up

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:

Can you imagine a single mistake sculpting your entire career path? Dr. Deborah Johnson-Blake, affectionately known as Dr. DJ, turned a career-altering error into a mission for mastering time management. This episode is packed with her practical wisdom on accurately estimating task durations and keeping distractions at bay, transforming both professional and personal productivity. Dr. DJ’s insights will help you understand the crucial difference between managing your time and managing your tasks, enabling you to reclaim your most valuable resource—time.

Ever feel overwhelmed by constant interruptions at work? Dr. DJ equips us with strategies to handle unexpected demands from supervisors and team members without losing sight of our true priorities. We delve into the importance of candid conversations to discern what really needs immediate attention and what can be deferred or delegated. Sometimes, we must make tough choices and let go of less critical tasks. With Dr. DJ’s expertise, you’ll gain actionable tips for navigating these workplace hurdles and ensuring you stay on track to achieve your goals.

Highlight Time Stamps:

(04:57 - 06:08) Passion for Time Management

(09:06 - 10:24) Managing Interruptions and Prioritizing Tasks

(13:09 - 14:46) Effective Time Management and Delegation

(19:14 - 20:42) Managing Time and Overcoming Procrastination

(28:21 - 29:16) Email Communication Best Practices

(32:45 - 34:48) Maximizing Efficiency With Text Communication

(37:28 - 38:09) Importance of Rest and Sleep

Connect with Dr. DJ:

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/djohnsonblake 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/djohnsonblake 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/djohnsonblake

Books: Browse Dr. DJ’s Best Selling Books, here.

Learn more from the Time Management Diva herself: https://www.deborahjohnsonblake.com/

About Dr. Deborah Johnson-Blake:

Dr. Deborah "Dr. DJ" Johnson-Blake is the CEO of The Writing Pad, LLC, a writing, editing, and consulting firm focusing on helping clients solve their writing and editing challenges. This tenacious and extroverted leader provides personal and professional development training and time management coaching. 

She is an award-winning assistant professor, dissertation research chair, and subject matter expert at Liberty University. She is a servant leader whose life's purpose is simply serving others. She is the 2021 American Business Woman of the year from American Business Women's Association (ABWA). 

Dr. DJ is the immediate past ABWA Ambassador Steering Committee Representative, Chapter Best Practices Committee Chair, ABWA Ambassador, and a past president of the Douglas County Charter Chapter of ABWA. 

Dr. DJ serves on several boards and committees in the Douglas County community and beyond, including as Chair of the Partners in Education of Douglas County and Secretary of Beyond the Front Porch. She has been honored with various awards in her community and beyond including the 2022 CelebrateHer Celebration's EncourageHer Award from the Douglas County Chamber of Commerce. 

She is recognized in Who's Who in America and Who's Who in Black Atlanta. and On a Saturday, you might find Dr. DJ cooking a delicious meal or hosting a dance party to Chaka Khan's I Am Every Woman because living life on purpose is her mantra. Follow Dr. DJ on social media at @djohnsonblake every Tuesday for time management tips, and connect with her on LinkedIn. Visit www.deborahjohnsonblake.com to order autographed copies of her books and learn ways she can help you become more time-efficient.

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 does it take for a family business to ensure long-term success? Join us as we explore this question with Jamie Flinchbaugh, founder of J Flinch, who brings his invaluable experience from working at family businesses to advising industry giants like Harley Davidson and Amazon. We dive into the unique committee structures that private company boards can create to tackle specific challenges, driving both innovation and value. Jamie's dedication to continuous learning and professional development emphasizes the importance of being an effective, committed board member.

We illuminate the value of diverse perspectives within board dynamics and how constructive feedback from multiple board members can catalyze significant insights and growth. Discover strategies for selecting board members whose experiences align with a company’s needs, thereby fostering a more effective and dynamic board environment. Thought diversity not only accelerates problem-solving but also spurs innovation, making it a crucial element for any forward-thinking board.

Jamie Flinchbaugh shares wisdom from his book "People Solve Problems," underscoring the importance of breaking down issues and focusing on behaviors and capabilities. We delve into the need for aligning around core values and embracing unfinished thought processes to fully harness board members' expertise. Whether you're a CEO or involved in a family-held business, this episode offers practical strategies for building a supportive and effective board, ensuring a productive advisory relationship that can guide your business toward sustained success.

Highlight Time Stamps:

(06:22 - 07:18) Committee Flexibility in Private Boards

(11:45 - 12:48) Benefit of Different Perspectives in Business

(20:32 - 21:39) The Importance of Having a Board

(26:27 - 28:16) Family Business Leadership and Decision Making

(30:18 - 32:30) Courageous Conflict on a Board

Connect with Jamie Flinchbaugh:

Find Jamie on LinkedIn

Learn More about Jamie’s Company, JFlinch:

https://www.jflinch.com/act-with-purpose/

About Jamie Flinchbaugh:

As Founder of JFlinch, Jamie Flinchbaugh has helped purpose-driven leaders craft effective, resilient organizations at over 300 companies.  Leveraging more than 30-years of experience and helping build over 20 companies, Jamie collaborates with leaders and their teams to bridge capability, strategic, cultural, and systems gaps so that they can safely span potential pitfalls and have a purposeful impact on their organizations.

Jamie has helped leaders across a wide spectrum of industries including healthcare, utilities, technology, consumer products, and professional services, including Harley-Davidson, Intel, Mars, Amazon, Crayola, Fidelity, Whirlpool, among many others.

Jamie is the author of People Solve Problems, The Power of Every Person, Every Day, Every Problem and co-author of The Hitchhiker’s Guide to Lean, Lessons from the Road and is the co-host of the podcasts Lean Whiskey and Happy Heuristics.  He currently lives in Bucks County, PA with his wife, Jill Triani.  Together they have three children, Emma, Jack, and Ben.

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.
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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:

Is it possible to harmonize tradition and innovation within a family business? Join us as we uncover the fascinating career of Kim Salems, who transitioned from social work to becoming an HR and operations expert in industries ranging from optical to veterinary services. Kim’s journey offers a captivating look into the unique challenges non-family members face when navigating family-owned businesses. Through compelling stories, like mediating family disputes at a veterinary clinic, Kim reveals the intricate dynamics and the critical role of professionalism and communication.

Our conversation delves deep into the balancing act required to respect longstanding traditions while fostering innovative ideas in family businesses. Kim shares her insights on the resistance outsiders might encounter and underscores the importance of trust and collaboration from family leaders. The pressures family members face in maintaining a business legacy are significant, and Kim highlights how a strong work ethic and adaptability can drive long-term success. Her unique perspective as a non-family employee in these environments brings to light the valuable contributions that external members can offer.

In our final discussion, we emphasize the importance of building a respectful and collaborative business culture. Kim discusses the concept of courageous conflict, where respectful and brave conversations lead to better decision-making. We explore how authenticity, transparency, and listening foster a sense of belonging and drive a thriving company culture. Reflecting on her career at Semler, Kim illustrates how internal hiring practices benefit family businesses and shares her experience transitioning from operations to a role that blends HR with finance. Tune in to gain valuable insights on navigating family dynamics and building a strong and respectful workplace culture.

Highlight Time Stamps:

(02:03 - 04:04) Career Growth and Diverse Experiences

(05:20 - 07:13) Navigating Family Dynamics in Business

(11:25 - 12:30) Building Trust in Family Business

(20:39 - 21:40) Advantages of Family Business Flexibility

(27:28 - 28:36) Advantages of Family Business Structure

(32:17 - 33:06) Return to HR and Operations

(39:33 - 41:13) Longevity and Innovation in Family Business

Connect with Kim Salems:

Connect with Kim on LinkedIn: 

Send Kim an email: [email protected]

About Kim Salems: 

Kim Salems, SHRM-CP, is a Human Resources professional with over twenty years of experience in various industries including optical, veterinary, and manufacturing. Her areas of expertise include full-cycle recruiting and staffing, employee relations and development, and strategic planning and implementation to enhance employee engagement and retention. She is a coach and champion for those around her to help discover their own empowerment in order to achieve personal and professional success.

Kim has a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Illinois State University and also holds a Certified Professional designation from the Society for Human Resource Management. She resides in the north suburbs of Chicago and in her free time enjoys traveling, photography, and pop culture trivia.

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 Artist Name:Dr. Donna Marino

Show Email: [email protected]

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