Family Business Breakthroughs

What separates average teams from exceptional ones? Carrie Nelson breaks down how a simple habit of sharing real stories of effort, care, and grit, has transformed culture inside a fourth-generation family business. This episode is an example of putting core values into daily action. Listen now for your next family business breakthrough! Are you a family business owner? Improve your business TODAY with our time tested and tailored solutions: Visit our website to get started at www.AskMeridian.com or call us at 817-594-0546

When is the best time to sell your family business? In this episode, Jim breaks down the top three reasons owners sell their business so that you can get a better idea of when to sell yours. Tune in for a grounded, insightful conversation about understanding what the best steps are for family business owners looking to sell in the next 12 months or in the next decade. Listen now for your next family business breakthrough! Are you a family business owner? Improve your business TODAY with our time tested and tailored solutions: Visit our website to get started at www.AskMeridian.com or call us at 817-594-0546

What does it take for a next-generation leader to honor decades of family legacy while still driving innovation and growth? In this episode, Jim sits down with Marshall Rabil, grandson of the founders and now CEO of Hubs Peanuts, to explore how he’s blending tradition, community impact, and modern leadership inside a 70-year-old family business.Marshall shares how his grandmother’s original blister-fried peanut recipe shaped an entire industry, why core values matter more than ever during a leadership transition, and how intentional partnerships keep Hubs relevant in a fast-changing food landscape. He also reveals the multi-day process his team used to define their purpose, vision, and values… a framework any family business can apply.Whether you’re planning succession, strengthening culture, or navigating your own next-gen transition, you’ll walk away with practical insight on: • Turning legacy into strategic advantage • Building values that guide real decisions • Creating community impact rooted in family identity • Balancing innovation with what’s worked for generationsTune in for a grounded, inspiring conversation about the mindset and habits that help family businesses grow, without losing who they are.Listen now for your next family business breakthrough!Are you a family business owner? Improve your business TODAY with our time tested and tailored solutions:Visit our website to get started at www.AskMeridian.comor call us at 817-594-0546

When Is It Time to Sell the Family Business?Deciding to sell your family business can be one of the hardest and most emotional decisions an owner will ever face. In this episode of Family Business Breakthroughs, host Jim Berner sits down with Ken Koger, Partner at Meridian Associates, to pull back the curtain on what really happens during the sale process.With over 30 years serving multi-generational companies, Meridian has guided countless families through business valuations, transitions, and mergers with confidentiality, care, and clarity. Jim and Ken unpack the real-world signs it may be time to sell, from burnout and shifting markets, to lack of succession plans, and share practical ways to increase your company’s value before you sell.You’ll learn how to:Spot early indicators it’s time to consider an exitAvoid “expense creep” and strengthen profitabilityReduce risk from customer concentrationNavigate the emotional ups and downs of sellingProtect confidentiality while preparing your team and familyWhether you’re thinking about succession, curious about mergers and acquisitions, or simply want to understand how to maximize business value, this conversation offers insight only decades of hands-on experience can provide.Listen now for your next family business breakthrough!_____Are you a family business owner? Improve your business TODAY with our time tested and tailored solutions:Visit our website to get started at www.AskMeridian.comor call us at 817-594-0546

What happens when you sell your family company—then have to win it back?Jodi Scott, CEO of SpryLife and cofounder of Green Goo, tells the riveting story of selling to a “values-aligned” acquirer, watching it unravel, firing her entire legacy team in under 24 hours, and battling for 18 months to buy the business back in December 2024.Rooted in health psychology and integrative medicine, Jody blends science and soul to build plant-based, efficacy-first products that grew from farmer’s markets to shelves at Walmart, CVS, and Target. She opens up about military-family systems that shaped their culture, the hard boundaries that keep love and leadership intact, and the mentors and practices (hello, cold plunges) that kept her present when everything was on the line.You’ll hear:Why they sold - and why they had to buy it backThe operating system that protected family relationships and fueled retentionHow “efficacy first” won natural + conventional consumers in OTCRebuilding reality: from 40 employees to 6, production first, purpose alwaysJody’s SHAMAN reset (Sleep, Hydration, Antioxidants, Mindset, Avoid, Nature) for resilient leadershipInnovation sparks: nutritive deodorant, botanical research, and philanthropic training for women abroadIf this episode helped you think differently about continuity and control, follow Family Business Breakthroughs and share it with a fellow owner or next-gen leader._____Are you a family business owner? Improve your business TODAY with our time tested and tailored solutions:Visit our website to get started at www.AskMeridian.comor call us at 817-594-0546

What happens when a family business faces a turning point no one saw coming? In this episode of Family Business Breakthroughs, host Jim Berner sits down with Gary Flynn, CEO and co-owner of M. Dumas & Sons—an iconic Charleston retailer with roots dating back to 1917.When third-generation owner David Dumas developed a degenerative eye disease that left him blind, he was faced with a heart-wrenching decision: close the doors on his grandfather’s store or trust someone outside the family to carry the legacy forward. Enter Gary Flynn, whose experience at Nordstrom, Hugo Boss, and beyond prepared him to step into a family business with a last name that wasn’t his own.Together, David and Gary forged a partnership built on trust, curiosity, and a relentless focus on customers. In this episode, Gary shares how he honored tradition while helping the business evolve, scaled operations beyond a single storefront, and stayed true to the family’s vision through every challenge.Listeners will gain timeless lessons on:Building trust when leadership extends beyond bloodlinesBalancing legacy with innovationThe power of listening, learning, and staying curiousIf you’ve ever wondered how to protect and grow a family legacy when circumstances force change, this conversation is filled with insights you won’t want to miss._____Are you a family business owner? Improve your business TODAY with our time tested and tailored solutions:Visit our website to get started at www.AskMeridian.comor call us at 817-594-0546

Succession can make or break a family business. When done well, it builds trust, preserves relationships, and strengthens the company for generations. When mishandled, it can fracture families and sink businesses.In this episode, cohosts Jim Berner and Sheila Janan talk with Betsi Bixby about a real family business that almost lost everything by trusting the wrong partner. You’ll hear how a father, who doubted his children’s abilities to run the company, handed power to an outside executive who secretly undermined the family and fostered a culture of fear and distrust.Betsi shares how Meridian helped uncover the truth, rebuild trust, clarify leadership roles, and transform the company culture, saving both the family and the business._____Are you a family business owner? Improve your business TODAY with our time tested and tailored solutions:Visit our website to get started at www.AskMeridian.comor call us at 817-594-0546

Many family businesses grow, expand, and build wealth — but behind the scenes, debt quietly piles up. For some, it becomes a way of life. But it doesn’t have to.In this episode, cohosts Jim Berner and Sheila Janan talk with Betsi Bixby, who shares real-life stories of family businesses that believed debt was just part of doing business until they realized it was holding them back. You’ll hear how owners overcame millions in debt, identified where their cash was tied up, and started building real financial freedom.Betsi explains the three biggest culprits that drain cash, the mindset shifts that lead to lasting change, and the emotional relief of running a business free of crushing debt for owners, employees, and future generations.______Are you a family business owner? Improve your business TODAY with our time tested and tailored solutions:Visit our website to get started at www.AskMeridian.comor call us at 817-594-0546

High turnover was draining this family business to the tune of over $2 million a year. They thought their only problem was finding enough warm bodies to fill positions. But the real issue ran deeper: hiring without culture fit and onboarding without support.In this episode, Jim Berner and Sheila Janan talk with Betsi Bixby about how this company transformed its approach to hiring and culture. You’ll hear how they applied the Meridian Method to streamline hiring, improve onboarding, reward performance, and build a workplace people wanted to stay in — achieving full employment in just 18 months.If you’re tired of the revolving door in your business, this episode is packed with practical insights to help you hire smarter and retain your best people.----Are you a family business owner? Improve your business TODAY with our time tested and tailored solutions:Visit our website to get started at www.AskMeridian.comor call us at 817-594-0546

When a young Next Gen leader took over his family’s wholesale business, he swore he’d never get into retail. But fate — and a repossessed store — had other plans. In this episode, Jim Berner, Sheila Janan, and Betsi Bixby share the real-world story of how this leader overcame fear, leaned on Meridian’s systems and coaching, and grew his convenience store portfolio from 1 to 15 (with a goal of 25). You’ll learn how culture became his competitive advantage, how he attracted the right people, and how smart diversification fueled his growth — all while staying true to his values.Are you a family business owner? Improve your business TODAY with our time tested and tailored solutions:Visit our website to get started at www.AskMeridian.comor call us at 817-594-0546

In this final episode of our Money Matters mini-series, we tackle the often misunderstood world of financing for family businesses. Host Jim Berner sits down with Meridian’s founder, Betsi Bixby, to explore what really drives lending decisions, how to avoid overpaying, and why debt can be a powerful tool—or a major risk. Betsi shares real stories from the field, insights from her banking career, and actionable advice on managing banker relationships, understanding risk, and preparing your business for smart, sustainable growth.Whether you're planning for expansion, considering debt reduction, or navigating succession, this episode is a must-listen for every family business leader ready to take control of their financial future.Are you a family business owner? Improve your business TODAY with our time tested and tailored solutions:Visit our website to get started at www.AskMeridian.comor call us at 817-594-0546

Profits and cash aren’t the same—and understanding that difference is key to running a thriving family business.In this episode, Jim Berner and Meridian founder Betsi Bixby explore smart, creative strategies for increasing profitability, from analyzing trends to uncovering hidden opportunities in your community (or even your payables!).You’ll learn:The key difference between cash and profit (and why both matter)How one family business funded tennis courts with their profit goalsCreative ways to grow revenue—starting right inside your own booksDiscover what’s possible when family business owners think bigger, serve better, and turn their purpose into profit.Are you a family business owner? Improve your business TODAY with our time tested and tailored solutions:Visit our website to get started at www.AskMeridian.comor call us at 817-594-0546

Cash and profitability are not the same thing—and ignoring that truth can sink a business.In this episode of Family Business Breakthroughs, host Jim Berner sits down with Betsy Bixby, founder of Meridian Associates, to unpack one of the most misunderstood parts of business: cash. From decades of experience helping family companies thrive, Betsy shares the critical difference between having a profit and having available cash—and why so many business owners miss the mark.You’ll learn:What “true cash position” really means (and how to calculate yours)The 3 metrics that make or break your cash flowHow often you really need to review your cash—daily, weekly, or monthly?Real stories of cash flow blind spots that cost businesses hundreds of thousandsHow the 7 Quick Cash Fixes book has helped owners unlock millionsWhether you’re leading a thriving company or navigating financial stress, this episode is packed with insights you can act on immediately. Listen now and grab your copy of 7 Quick Cash Fixes:https://www.amazon.com/Quick-Cash-Fixes-Business-Unbridled/dp/1495465136Are you a family business owner? Improve your business TODAY with our time tested and tailored solutions:Visit our website to get started at www.AskMeridian.comor call us at 817-594-0546

In today's episode we will be discussing the third component of people, Execution. We are joined by Betsi Bixby, the Founder of Meridian Associates with over 30 years of experience supporting family businesses.You'll hear Betsi’s insights on:Fostering accountability among team membersWhy execution failsBalancing short term needs with long term goalsReflecting on failed goalsHow to improve executionSelf reflectionReflecting on successGetting to the long term goalAre you a family business owner? Improve your business TODAY with our time tested and tailored solutions:Visit our website to get started at www.AskMeridian.comor Call us at 817-594-0546

In today's episode we'll be discussing the best ways to conquer people issues with leadership. We are joined by Betsi Bixby, the Founder of Meridian Associates, with over 30 years of experience supporting family businesses.Listen in for insights on:Qualities that make a high performing leaderCommunicating goalsImproving leadership skillsUnderstanding communication stylesHandling resistanceMeasuring effectivenessCreating positive leadership throughout your businessTeaching future leadersAre you a family business owner? Improve your business TODAY with our time tested and tailored solutions:Visit our website to get started at www.AskMeridian.comor call us at 817-594-0546

In today's episode we will be discussing the best ways to conquer people issues with culture. We are joined by Betsi Bixby, the Founder of Meridian Associates with over 30 years of experience supporting family businesses.Listen in for insights on:How culture can impact a companyHow turnover and culture correlateKey elements to a strong cultureThe benefits of a strong cultureCore valuesHow leaders can implement a strong cultureHow to improve engagement and moralTracking and retaining top talentHow to measure successAre you a family business owner? Improve your business TODAY with our time tested and tailored solutions:Visit our website to get started at www.AskMeridian.comor call us at 817-594-0546

In today's episode we will be discussing the third component of vision, systems. We are joined by Betsi Bixby, the Founder of Meridian Associates with over 30 years of experience supporting family businesses. We will be getting Betsi’s insight on:What a system isWhy a good system is importantImportance of documentationHow do these systems support vision and structureWhat a bad system causesQuestions to ask about your systemAre you a family business owner? Improve your business TODAY with our time tested and tailored solutions:Visit our website to get started at www.AskMeridian.comor call us at 817-594-0546

In today's episode we will be discussing the second component of vision, structure. We are joined by Betsi Bixby, the Founder of Meridian Associates with over 30 years of experience supporting family businesses. We will be getting Betsi’s insight on:Why structure is importantCreating an optimal structureThe need to change structure with growthHow to pinpoint structural problemsHow much businesses can save from restructuringIndicators of structural problemsHow a bigger company can measure their structureHow a change in structure has impacted family businessesAre you a family business owner? Improve your business TODAY with our time tested and tailored solutions:Visit our website to get started at www.AskMeridian.comor call us at 817-594-0546

In today’s episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Betsi Bixby, the Founder of Meridian Associates, who has over 30 years of experience supporting family businesses. One of the key components of the Meridian Method is vision strategy, and we’ll be gaining Betsi’s insights on:Why vision strategy is so importantCommon mistakes family businesses makeWhy Meridians approach is so impactfulQuestions to ask in a strategy meetingHow to communicate in strategy meetingsWhy it’s important to incorporate an outsider into a strategy meetingAre you a family business owner? Improve your business TODAY with our time tested and tailored solutions:Visit our website to get started at www.AskMeridian.comCall us at 817-594-0546

You may not shoot webs or leap tall buildings, but as a family business, you do have superpowers—ones that give you a real edge in today’s market.In this episode, Jim breaks down what makes family-owned businesses uniquely powerful, from building authentic customer trust to creating workplaces where people feel like family—not just numbers. You’ll hear surprising stats, real-life examples, and a clear call to action: own your identity as a family business and make it known.You’ll discover how to:Leverage your “family-owned” brand to boost visibility and loyaltyTurn people-first culture into a magnet for talentOutshine big corporations with superior service and deep community rootsThis episode is a powerful reminder that your greatest strength might be what you’ve had all along.Are you a family business owner? Improve your business TODAY with our time tested and tailored solutions:Visit our website to get started at www.AskMeridian.comor call us at 817-594-0546

There is no better person to interview about next-gen family leaders than a next-gen leader. In this episode, we’re joined by Sheila, the next-gen owner of Meridian Associates! Listen as she shares her insight on:The process of successionHaving a professional and personal relationshipTraversing the bumps that come along with family businessTransitioning to working with familyThe positive impacts on your relationship working with familySeparating business from your personal lifeNavigating conflictsThe benefits of family businessAre you a family business owner? Improve your business TODAY with our time tested and tailored solutions:Visit our website to get started at www.AskMeridian.comor call us at 817-594-0546

Are you conducting exit interviews the right way? Discover the must-ask questions that can help you avoid costly mistakes in your family business!

Are Gen Z workers really the problem or are we just hiring the wrong way?In this episode of Family Business Breakthroughs, host Jim Berner tackles the hot topic of hiring Gen Z in today’s workforce. Inspired by a viral Yahoo Finance article on employers firing Gen Z grads just months after hiring them, Jim digs into what’s really going wrong—and more importantly, what family businesses can do about it.You’ll walk away with three actionable strategies to improve your hiring process:How to hire for core value fitHow to define your ideal candidateHow to set expectations from Day OneWhether you’re hiring your first Gen Z employee or your fiftieth, this episode delivers practical insight to build a values-aligned team that thrives.Learn more at askmeridian.com

Leadership transition for any company can have some challenges. Couple that with a family business, and things often get even more complicated.Listen in as Jim shares the 3 things that make leadership transitions a smoother process so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.

If you're looking for the one thing that is going to accelerate your business and change it for the better, now that the election is over, listen in!This short but mighty powerful podcast, could give you the next big breakthrough for your family business!