What Succession Planning is Actually About (Pt1): Real stories

Just the thought of succession planning makes so many of us feel uncomfortable. But in this episode, we're embracing the awkward feelings ... and in fact, challenging them. Succession is not about carving up who gets what, it's planning for your future business, lifestyle and aspirations. It can actually be quite exciting.In this episode, two women share their succession stories and advice:Melissa McDonald - dairy farmer in south-west Victoria, who has gone from working for a wage on her parents' farm, to share farming, and is now heading towards ownership.Fiona Aveyard - farmer in central NSW, who founded Outback Lamb as a way to diversify and future-proof their business for their children and their community.While the path to forming a succession plan that keeps everyone happy is rarely quick or easy, it's much better than doing nothing at all. Melissa and Fiona speak candidly about their experiences, from how to have difficult conversations with family, when you should seek a lawyer and how to turn the succession process into a positive.This is part one of a two-part series on succession planning and we'd love to hear from you. Our next episode features a property lawyer (and rural woman) who regularly deals with succession. If you have a question for her or a succession story to share then email it to us: [email protected] or DM us on Twitter or Instagram (We can keep you anonymous)!For more information, visit our websiteSend us Fan MailThis is a Rural Podcasting Co. production. Interested in making your own podcast? Let us help you tell your own story!