Growing Up B2B

In this episode of Growing Up B2B, Ed Delia interviews the President of Promotional Products at Harry Hoffer Advertising Specialties, Marcy Hoffer. Marcy shares the company’s nearly 80-year journey, beginning with her grandfather’s founding in 1946, through family transitions, and her own leadership.

She discusses the evolution of the promotional products industry, the importance of legacy, and the challenges and rewards of running a family business. Marcy emphasizes the power of storytelling, adapting to new technology, and maintaining strong client relationships, all while honoring her grandfather’s name and values.

Learn more about Marcy's work HERE.

Connect with Marcy on LinkedIn HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Growing Up B2B, Ed Delia interviews the Leader of Top-Performing CEO Groups at Vistage, Jerry Cahn. Jerry shares his journey from psychology and law to entrepreneurship and mentoring, offering insights on leadership, legacy, and adapting to generational change.

He emphasizes challenges unique to family businesses, the impact of technology and evolving work cultures, and the importance of open communication, values, and succession planning. Jerry’s stories and advice provide practical guidance for navigating growth, transitions, and building resilient, purpose-driven organizations.

Learn more about Jerry's work HERE.

Connect with Jerry on LinkedIn HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Growing Up B2B, Ed Delia interviews the COO at Mica Corporation, Jaclyn Epstein. Jaclyn shares her journey from early exposure to the family business, her career at GE, and her return to Mica in 2016.

She discusses leadership dynamics in a family business, integrating professional management, industry association involvement, and Mica’s focus on sustainability and innovation in flexible packaging. Jaclyn highlights the company’s commitment to environmental responsibility, the adoption of AI, and her advice for next-generation leaders considering joining their family business.

Learn more about Jaclyn's work HERE.

Connect with Jaclyn on LinkedIn HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Growing Up B2B, Ed Delia interviews the President at More Than Money 360, Shawn Barberis. Shawn shares his journey from estate planning lawyer to innovator in family wealth strategy, focusing on the qualitative side of wealth—values, unity, and legacy.

He explains how MTM360’s digital platform helps families communicate, resolve conflicts, and foster gratitude across generations. Shawn covers overcoming entitlement, building effective governance, and using technology—including AI—to support family harmony. Shawn emphasizes education, proactive communication, and stewardship as keys to sustaining multi-generational family success.

Learn more about Shawn's work HERE.

Connect with Shawn on LinkedIn HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Growing Up B2B, Ed Delia interviews the Account Executive at Lamar Advertising Company, Conor Keough. Conor discusses his journey into out-of-home advertising, the evolving mix of digital and traditional billboards, and the unique culture at Lamar.

He shares insights on balancing family ties with professional growth, the importance of mentorship, and adapting to industry innovations, offering listeners a candid look at navigating a family business and building a career in a dynamic advertising landscape.

Learn more about Conor's work HERE.

Connect with Conor on LinkedIn HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Growing Up B2B, Ed Delia interviews the Executive Vice President of Marketing and Sales at Preferred Plastics & Packaging Co., Al Striano. Al shares his unique journey from working in his family’s Bronx steel business to playing professional baseball to holding senior roles at major corporations.

He discusses the lessons learned from his upbringing, the importance of hard work, accountability, and open debate, and how these values shaped his leadership style. Al also recounts his transition to Preferred Plastics & Packaging Co. and offers advice for those navigating family business dynamics and career crossroads.

Learn more about Al's work HERE.

Connect with Al on LinkedIn HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this special 50th episode of Growing Up B2B, Richard Palatini interviews the President of Delia Associates Branding & Marketing, Ed Delia. Ed discusses his journey joining and leading his family’s branding firm, lessons learned from his father, and the evolving challenges of B2B marketing.

Ed reflects on the unique dynamics of family businesses, the importance of brand strategy, and insights gained from interviewing other multigenerational leaders. Ed celebrates the podcast’s milestone while offering advice and inspiration for next-generation family business leaders.

Learn more about Ed's work HERE.

Connect with Ed on LinkedIn HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Growing Up B2B, Ed Delia interviews the Business Coach, Author, Professor of Marketing and Entrepreneurship, and Speaker, Dr. Christiane Schroeter. Christiane explores the unique challenges of family businesses, focusing on leadership, legacy, communication, and emotional intelligence.

She shares practical strategies for setting boundaries, embracing wellness, and fostering innovation while honoring tradition. Christiane emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, confidence-building, and adaptive communication for sustainable growth.

Connect with Christiane on LinkedIn HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Growing Up B2B, Ed Delia interviews the CEO and President at Knichel Logistics, Kristy Knichel. Kristy shares her journey from joining the family business at 19 to leading it as a certified women-owned logistics provider.

She discusses overcoming early challenges, working with family, and transforming the company into an industry leader specializing in intermodal shipping. Kristy emphasizes the impact of AI, the importance of niche expertise, and her experiences as a woman in a male-dominated field, offering insights on resilience, leadership, and innovation in family-run businesses.

Learn more about Kristy's work HERE.

Connect with Kristy on LinkedIn HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Growing Up B2B, Ed Delia interviews the CEO at World Wide Metric, George Contos. George shares his journey as a second-generation leader, discussing the company’s evolution from a family-run marine supplier to a diversified, resilient B2B business.

He reflects on lessons learned from his parents, overcoming setbacks, modernizing operations, and navigating challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic. George highlights the importance of company culture, adaptability, and relationships, and shares his enthusiasm for AI’s role in business innovation.

Learn more about George's work HERE.

Connect with George on LinkedIn HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.