Growing Up B2B

In this episode of Growing Up B2B, Ed Delia interviews the President of Exothermic Molding, Paul Steck. Paul shares his journey growing up in a family business, starting with early hands-on experiences in manufacturing.

He discusses the transition of leadership within Exothermic, the influence of family dynamics, and the challenges of managing a family-owned company. He highlights the importance of hands-on experience, resilience, and continuous learning in navigating the complexities of a family business.

Learn more about Paul's work HERE.

Connect with Paul 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 of L-E-M Plastics & Supply, Ellen Pietrowitz-Phillips. Ellen shares her journey from the restaurant industry to leading her family’s high-performance plastic fabrication business.

She reflects on her childhood experiences, the challenges of transitioning into manufacturing, and the importance of customer service and family legacy. Ellen emphasizes the significance of gaining external experience before joining a family business and highlights the evolving, exciting nature of modern manufacturing. The episode underscores the value of hard work, adaptability, and fostering a collaborative company culture.

Learn more about Ellen's work HERE.

Connect with Ellen 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 of Sheldon Gross Realty, Marcy Gross. Marcy shares her journey from initially avoiding the family business to embracing a leadership role in commercial real estate.

She discusses the evolving work culture, the importance of technology and customer service, and the challenges of managing a family business. Marcy emphasizes the value of communication, mentorship, and networking. She reflects on her relationship with her father and offers advice for those considering joining a family business.

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 Co-Owner of Lady Burd Cosmetics, Samantha Burd. Samantha shares her unique journey growing up in the family business, founded by her grandmother, Roberta Byrd, in 1972.

She reflects on her childhood experiences, the influence of her grandmother, and the lessons learned about business and life. Samantha discusses the pressures of taking over the family business, her career at Deloitte, and her decision to return to Lady Burd Cosmetics. She emphasizes the importance of humility, mentorship, and modernizing the brand while honoring its legacy.

Learn more about Samantha's work HERE.

Connect with Samantha 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 AI -powered character of Sesame AI, Maya. Maya explores the unique challenges and opportunities faced by family-owned businesses, particularly during generational transitions.

Maya highlights the importance of balancing tradition with innovation, open communication, and core values. She also discusses effective succession planning and the role of AI in enhancing customer interactions. The episode provides valuable insights for family businesses to thrive by leveraging their unique strengths and adapting to the evolving business landscape.

Learn more about Maya's work 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 of The Knotts Company, Mark Howe. Mark, a second-generation leader, recounts his lifelong involvement in the family business, from childhood memories of accompanying his father to work to his education in mechanical engineering.

He discusses the challenges and lessons of transitioning into leadership, emphasizing the importance of understanding various roles, valuing employees, and adapting to technological advancements. Mark also highlights the significance of mentorship, the unique dynamics of family businesses, and his vision for the company's future in automation and AI.

Learn more about Mark's work HERE.

Connect with Mark 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 and CEO of Costa Rica’s Call Center, Richard Blank. Richard shares his entrepreneurial journey, starting his call center during the 2008 recession, and the influence of his family's entrepreneurial background.

He discusses the dynamics of working with family, including his wife and nephew, and the importance of open communication and respect. Richard also explores the future of the call center industry amidst technological advancements and offers advice for couples in business.

Learn more about Richard's work HERE.

Connect with Richard 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 Managing Director of PMCF Investment Banking, John Hart. John discusses his journey from a family business to investment banking, focusing on his specialization in the plastics and packaging industry.

John shares insights on advising family-owned businesses during mergers and acquisitions, emphasizing the emotional and financial complexities involved. He highlights the importance of early planning, strategic assessments, and understanding the motivations behind selling a business to ensure a successful and balanced transaction.

Learn more about John's work HERE.

Connect with John 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 of Rodman Media, James Zilenziger. James shares his journey from sales representative to COO, emphasizing the importance of trust, empathy, and understanding different company roles.

He discusses the challenges of working in a family business, maintaining a family-oriented culture, and balancing personal and professional relationships. James also highlights Rodman Media's commitment to innovation and continuous employee development. James offers valuable insights into leadership, family business dynamics, and the significance of open communication and trust in fostering a collaborative work environment.

Learn more about James' work HERE.

Connect with James 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 Director Of Marketing And Business Development at CMG Plastics, Jens Duerr. Jens recounts his childhood experiences in the family business, originally Duerr Tool and Die, and its transformation into CMG Plastics through a merger with Custom Molders Corporation.

He discusses his journey into the plastics industry, the challenges faced during the company's growth, and the pivotal moments that led to significant business expansion. He highlights the collaborative leadership within CMG Plastics and the strategic acquisition by Berry Global, emphasizing adaptability and future growth.

Learn more about Jens' work HERE.

Connect with Jens on LinkedIn HERE.

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