How Three Generations Built a Thriving Tile Business | The Family Biz Show Ep. 111

What does it take to build a business that lasts for generations? Not years. Not decades. Generations. Have you ever wondered: "Will the next generation want to join the business?" "How do we pass leadership without losing momentum?" "Can a family business continue growing while staying true to its roots?" "What separates businesses that survive from those that disappear?" This conversation offers a real-world example. For more than 50 years, the Firkins family has built, expanded, and evolved Tile Wholesalers through changing markets, economic shifts, industry disruptions, and generational transitions. In this episode, Michael Palumbos sits down with three generations of the Firkins family to explore the decisions, relationships, and leadership principles that helped transform a one-man operation into a thriving regional business. Meet the Guests Al Firkins founded Tile Wholesalers in 1972 after years of industry experience and a willingness to take a leap into entrepreneurship. Dave Firkins, second-generation president, helped expand the company into commercial markets, modernize operations, and lead significant growth initiatives. Kathryn Firkins, Vice President, provides a unique perspective on family relationships, communication, and the trust required to work alongside family members every day. Conor Firkins, third-generation leader, shares how he is preparing to guide the business into its next chapter.   Thriving family businesses don't survive because they avoid change. They survive because they embrace change while preserving the values that matter most. The Firkins family demonstrates how trust, communication, service, and continuous learning can create a foundation strong enough to support multiple generations of leadership. In This Episode, You'll Learn: How trust strengthens leadership transitions Why customer service remains a competitive advantage How family businesses can adapt without losing their identity Why learning from previous generations matters How to prepare future leaders for success Why great teams are essential to long-term growth How family businesses remain competitive in changing markets Every family business hopes to create something that lasts. This conversation shows what that journey looks like in practice—through hard work, trust, adaptability, and a commitment to serving both customers and future generations. If you're building a family business for the long term, this episode provides valuable lessons from a family that has successfully done it. Ready to strengthen your family business and learn from other multi-generational leaders? Listen to more conversations and access additional resources at: 👉 https://www.familybusinessflywheel.com/podcast