The Business of Family

When people hear the word "trust," they often think it's only for the ultra-wealthy.The reality? Trusts can be a powerful tool for families who want to protect what matters most, whether that's a family business, family cottage, investments, or simply the relationships that matter across generations.In this episode of The Business of Family Podcast, Tammy sits down with Jandy John from Concentra Trust to demystify trusts and answer the questions many families have but aren't sure who to ask.Together they discuss:✔ What a trust is (and isn't)✔ Why families choose to establish trusts✔ How trusts support family business succession✔ Common misconceptions that hold people back✔ Practical advice for families thinking about their futureThe best legacy plans aren't just about transferring assets, they're about creating clarity, protecting relationships, and ensuring your wishes are carried out the way you intended.🎧 Listen now and discover why trusts may be worth a conversation with your family and professional advisors.#FamilyBusiness #FamilyLegacy #Trusts #EstatePlanning #SuccessionPlanning #FamilyEnterprise #BusinessContinuity #WealthTransfer #FamilyGovernance #ConcentraTrust #BusinessOfFamily #BlueRoots #Podcast #BusinessPodcast

Fair pay or family privilege?In a family business, compensation is rarely just about the paycheck.It's about fairness. It's about recognition. It's about trust.When family and business overlap, questions like "Why do they make more than me?" or "Should family be treated differently?" can quickly become emotional and create lasting tension.In this episode of The Business of Family Podcast – Family Matters: Legal Edition, Tammy Buss and Yola Ventresca explore how family businesses can create compensation practices that are fair, transparent, and built to strengthen both the family and the business.In this episode, we discuss:✔️ Why compensation becomes so personal in family businesses✔️ The difference between equal and fair✔️ Why you should pay for the role, not the relationship✔️ Salary vs. ownership distributions✔️ How governance and clear policies reduce conflict✔️ Navigating difficult conversations about compensation and family expectationsWhen compensation decisions are guided by clear principles instead of assumptions, families spend less time managing conflict, and more time building a stronger business together.🎧 Listen now and join the conversation.#FamilyBusiness #SuccessionPlanning #FamilyEnterprise #BusinessGovernance #Leadership #Compensation #BusinessStrategy #Legacy #FamilyBusinessAdvisors #Lawyers #LernersLLP #BlueRoots #BusinessPodcast #LegalPodcast #Podcast

A legacy isn’t just what you leave behind. It’s also the clarity you leave your family with.Too often, families avoid conversations about estate planning because they feel uncomfortable, complicated, or like something that can wait for another day. But when wishes aren’t communicated and plans aren’t documented, families can be left navigating uncertainty, difficult decisions, and unnecessary emotional stress during an already challenging time.On this Legacy on Repeat episode of the Business of Family Podcast, Tammy Buss sits down with Sandra Pollack, Founder of Trimaran Advisory and author of Don’t Leave a Mess, to discuss:✨ Why estate planning is about more than just documents✨ The importance of communicating your wishes with your family✨ How to avoid leaving behind confusion and conflict✨ The steps families can take today to create clarity for tomorrowBecause the greatest gift you can give your family isn’t just what you leave them, it’s knowing exactly what you wanted and why.🎧 Listen to Legacy on Repeat: Don’t Leave a Mess – Estate Planning#LegacyPlanning #EstatePlanning #FamilyBusiness #FamilyLegacy #WealthTransfer #SuccessionPlanning #FamilyCommunication #LegacyOnRepeat #TheBusinessOfFamily #BlueRoots #TrimaranAdvisory

What does it really feel like to grow up inside a family business?For Chad Berg of Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry, the answer is layered. It’s about watching his parents build something meaningful, finding his own path within the business, and learning how to balance family relationships with business decisions.In this episode of The Business of Family Podcast, Chad shares his perspective on:💎 Growing up surrounded by the family business💎 How his journey into leadership differed from his siblings💎 Defining roles within a family business💎 How his view of success and legacy has evolved💎 The lessons he believes every family business can learnEvery family member has a different story, and Chad’s perspective brings another important piece to the Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry family business journey.Tune in as we continue exploring what it takes to build, lead, and pass down a family business for future generations.🎧 Listen to the latest episode of The Business of Family Podcast.#FamilyBusiness #BusinessFamily #FamilyEnterprise #Legacy #SuccessionPlanning #NextGeneration #Leadership #Entrepreneurship  #TheBusinessOfFamily #Jewelry #LeeMichaelsFineJewelry #BlueRoots #Podcast #BusinessPodcast #Siblings #SiblingsInBusiness

Every family business begins with someone willing to take a chance.In 1978, Lee Michael Berg started Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry with a vision, and determination. Today, his sons are leading the business forward, proving that building a company is only part of the journey, building a legacy is what truly lasts.Whether you're a first-generation founder, preparing for transition, or part of the next generation, Lee's story offers valuable insight into what it takes to create a business that can thrive for generations.🎧 Tune in and hear why succession isn't about stepping away, it's about setting the next generation up to succeed.#FamilyBusiness #SuccessionPlanning #LeadershipTransition #LegacyOnRepeat #BusinessLegacy #NextGeneration #Entrepreneurship #FamilyEnterprise

Who really owns the family business... and who actually controls it?They're not always the same thing.One of the biggest misconceptions we see in family businesses is assuming ownership automatically means decision-making authority. In reality, ownership and control can look very different, and misunderstanding the distinction can create conflict, confusion, and costly succession mistakes.In this episode of The Business of Family Podcast: Family Matters Legal Edition, Tammy Buss and Yola Ventresca are joined by Mark McAuley, Partner at Lerners LLP.Whether you're planning for the next generation or simply trying to better understand your family's business structure, this episode offers practical insights that every family business owner should hear.🎧 Listen now and start the conversations before assumptions become problems.#FamilyBusiness #SuccessionPlanning #Governance #Ownership #BusinessTransition #FamilyEnterprise #Leadership #BusinessOfFamilyPodcast #FamilyMatters #LegalPodcast #Legal #Podcast #BusinesPodcast #BlueRoots #LernersLLP

At what point does a business become more than just a way to earn a living?Is it when the next generation joins? When shared values shape every decision? Or when you're building something designed to last beyond yourself?In this episode of Legacy on Repeat, Tammy sits down with Martha MacDonald, Wealth Advisor with National Bank, to discuss her journey of joining her father's practice and what it truly means to build a family business.Whether you're already working alongside family or wondering what the future of your business could look like, this conversation offers valuable insights on legacy, succession, and creating something that lasts.🎧 Listen now#LegacyOnRepeat #TheBusinessOfFamily #FamilyBusiness #FamilyBusinessSuccess #BusinessLegacy #SuccessionPlanning #NextGeneration #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #BusinessOwners #WealthManagement #LegacyPlanning #NationalBank 

What happens when three brothers help lead the family business their parents built?In this episode of The Business of Family Podcast, Tammy Buss sits down with Scott Berg, co-owner of Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry, to explore the realities of working alongside siblings, balancing family relationships with business decisions, and carrying forward a family legacy.Scott shares his perspective on growing up around the business, how leadership responsibilities evolved between him and his brothers, and why his definition of success has changed over time.Whether you're part of a family business or simply navigating family dynamics at work, you'll find valuable insights on leadership, communication, legacy, and long-term success.🎧 Listen now #TheBusinessOfFamily #FamilyBusiness #Leadership #SuccessionPlanning #FamilyEnterprise #Legacy #Entrepreneurship #BusinessPodcast #BrothersInBusiness #NextGen #Podcast #BusinessPodcast #Jewelry #LeeMichaelsFineJewelry #BlueRoots

What does it take to successfully run a family business with your sibling?In this episode of The Business of Family Podcast, Tammy Buss sits down with Ed Etheridge, co-owner of Black Walnut Bakery Café, to discuss the realities of building and growing a family business alongside his sister.From navigating roles and responsibilities, to overcoming the devastating impact of an arson fire at their original location, Ed shares honest lessons on resilience, communication, and staying united through life's biggest challenges.Whether you're working with family today or planning for the future of your family enterprise, this conversation is filled with practical wisdom and inspiration.🎧 Listen now and discover why a shared vision, strong communication, and putting family above business may be the most important ingredients for long-term success.#TheBusinessOfFamily #FamilyBusiness #SuccessionPlanning #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #BlackWalnutBakeryCafe #FamilyFirst #Bakery #Cafe #BusinessPodcast #Podcast #BlueRoots

What does it take to successfully transition a family business from one generation to the next?In this episode of The Business of Family Podcast, Tammy Buss sits down with Steve Kustermans of Kustermans Family Farm to explore the journey from a small family farm to one of Southwestern Ontario's most beloved family destinations.Steve shares stories from growing up in the business, stepping into leadership, working alongside family, and balancing the responsibility of preserving his parents' legacy while building something new for future generations.Whether you're part of a family business, planning for succession, or simply interested in the dynamics of working with family, this conversation offers valuable insights on leadership, stewardship, growth, and the importance of thinking long-term.🎧 Listen now.#BusinessOfFamilyPodcast #FamilyBusiness #SuccessionPlanning #NextGenerationLeadership #FamilyEnterprise #Leadership #BusinessSuccession #FamilyBusinessAdvisor #OntarioBusiness #Kustermans #Farm #FarmPodcast #BusinessPodcast #BerryFarm #AdventureFarm #FamilyFarm #BlueRoots #Agritourism 

Family businesses today often extend far beyond one city, one province, or even one country.Whether it's children living abroad, international investments, cross-border operations, or family members with ties to multiple jurisdictions, the tax implications can be more complex than many families realize.In this episode of Family Matters – Legal Edition, Tammy Buss and Yola Ventresca sit down with Raymond Adlington to explore the critical intersection of corporate and personal tax planning for family businesses with international connections.From residency and worldwide income rules to succession planning, governance structures, and common cross-border pitfalls, this conversation highlights why proactive planning can help families protect both their wealth and their relationships.🎙️ Listen now and learn how to identify potential risks before they become costly surprises.#BusinessOfFamily #FamilyMattersLegalEdition #FamilyBusiness #SuccessionPlanning #TaxPlanning #CrossBorderTax #FamilyEnterprise #EstatePlanning #BusinessFamilies #BlueRoots #LernersLLP #LegalPodcast #BusinessPodcast

In this episode of Legacy on Repeat, Tammy sits down with Brett Thompson, PRINT-certified communication consultant, to unpack how understanding your unique wiring can transform the way family businesses communicate, collaborate, and grow together.When family and business overlap, complexity is inevitable. But with the right tools, conflict can become clarity and communication can become connection.Tune in as we explore how the PRINT Assessment helps family businesses better understand themselves and each other, creating stronger relationships, healthier conversations, and more intentional legacies.🎙️ Listen now and discover what’s driving your decisions behind the scenes.#TheBusinessOfFamily #LegacyOnRepeat #FamilyBusiness #PRINTAssessment #FamilyBusinessLeadership #CommunicationMatters #SuccessionPlanning #BusinessGrowth #LeadershipDevelopment #BlueRoots #Communication

Preparing the next generation for financial transition takes more than passing down wealth, it takes intentional communication, shared values, and a clear framework for what comes next.In this episode of The Business of Family Podcast, Tammy sits down with Mehendi Kamani, President & Portfolio Manager of Tall Oak Capital Advisors, to unpack what it really means to prepare NextGen family members financially.Financial succession isn’t just about transferring assets. It’s about preparing people.🎧 Tune in now and start building the conversations that create stronger family transitions.#TheBusinessOfFamily #FamilyBusiness #SuccessionPlanning #NextGenLeadership #WealthTransition #FamilyGovernance #LeadershipDevelopment #BusinessSuccession #BlueRoots #LegacyPlanning #TallOakCapitalAdvisors #Communication #Governance

In this episode of The Business of Family Podcast, Tammy sits down with Donna and Bailey Pinsonneault of She’s Got Leggz, a women-led brand built on confidence, community, and bold entrepreneurship.From Donna’s journey as a CPA-turned-CEO to Bailey stepping into the business and shaping its creative direction, this conversation dives into what it really looks like to work alongside family.They open up about:✨ The expectations vs. reality of working together✨ The boundaries they’ve had to create along the way✨ The biggest advantages, and toughest challenges, of being family in business✨ Honest conversations around legacy and successionThis episode is a candid look at navigating relationships, roles, and long-term vision when family and business collide.🎧 Tune in now to hear their story and take away practical advice for your own family business journey.www.blueroots.ca/podcast OR https://www.youtube.com/@BlueRootsinc#TheBusinessOfFamily #FamilyBusiness #WomenInBusiness #Leadership #SuccessionPlanning #Entrepreneurship #BlueRoots #ShesGotLeggz #Leggings #Communication 

What happens when siblings become business partners? In this episode, Tammy and Yola sit down with George Hamzo, Partner at Lerners LLP, to explore the legal and relational complexities of sibling-run family businesses.From ownership, control, and decision-making to roles, compensation, and accountability, the conversation highlights where family dynamics can create both strength and tension in business.George also shares practical legal tools—like shareholder agreements, buy-sell provisions, and dispute resolution clauses—that help prevent conflict and protect both the business and the relationship through change, growth, and succession.A clear reminder that strong relationships need strong structure to last.Listen now 🎧#BusinessOfFamily #FamilyBusiness #SiblingPartners #FamilyEnterprise #SuccessionPlanning #ShareholderAgreement #BusinessLaw #FamilyDynamics #ConflictResolution #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #FamilyAndBusiness #LegalMatters #LernersLLP #BusinessStructure #BlueRoots #Podcast #BusinessPodcast #LegalPodcast

You don’t set out to build a successful family business… sometimes, it just happens.But navigating the dynamics that come with it? That’s the real work.If you’ve ever felt alone in the challenges of working with family—this episode will remind you that you’re not.On this Legacy on Repeat episode, Tammy sits down with Terry & Justine Zavits, a mother-daughter duo who built, transitioned, and ultimately sold their business.It’s a story of growth, change, and what it really means to evolve as both a family and a business.🎧 Tune in now to this Legacy on Repeat episode.#LegacyOnRepeat #FamilyBusiness #SuccessionPlanning #Leadership #WomenInBusiness #NextGen #Entrepreneurship #BusinessOfFamily #Transitions #Growth #ZavitzInsurance #BlueRoots

In this episode of The Business of Family Podcast, we sit down with Ryan Berg, President of Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry, to explore the journey of a second-generation family business built on strong values, trust, and long-term vision.Ryan shares the story of how his dad founded the business in 1978 and how it has grown into a multi-state operation. We dive into what it really looks like to step into a leadership role in a business your parent built. From navigating expectations and defining your own path, to working alongside siblings as co-leaders.This conversation goes beyond business growth. Ryan opens up about how governance, communication, and shared values play a critical role in protecting both the business and family relationships. He also reflects on raising the next generation, what legacy truly means to him, and the lessons he’s most intentional about passing on.Whether you're part of a multi-generational business or planning for the future, this episode offers practical insights and honest reflections on leadership, succession, and sustaining family harmony as you grow.Listen now 🎧#TheBusinessOfFamily #FamilyBusiness #FamilyEnterprise #NextGenLeadership #SuccessionPlanning #FamilyLegacy #BusinessGrowth #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #ScalingBusiness #SecondGeneration #SiblingPartnership #Governance #BusinessStrategy #LegacyBuilding #LeadershipDevelopment #FamilyOwned #BusinessPodcast #PodcastEpisode #BlueRoots #BusinessOwners #LeeMichaelsFineJewelry

What happens when love, craft, and entrepreneurship come together?In this episode, Tammy sits down with Nathalie Rousseau, Co-Founder & COO of ROUSSEAU Chocolatier, to explore what it really looks like to build a business alongside your spouse. From the early days of taking a leap together to navigating roles, relationships, and tough decisions, Nathalie shares an honest and thoughtful look behind the scenes of a growing family enterprise.Together, they dive into:• How a shared passion turned into a thriving chocolatier rooted in Nova Scotia• The realities (and surprises) of working with your significant other• Navigating conflict, creativity, and decision-making as partners• Building a business grounded in craftsmanship, sustainability, and communityPlus… you’ll definitely hear about some incredible chocolate creations along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to build something meaningful together, this episode is for you.#TheBusinessOfFamily #FamilyBusiness #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #Podcast #WomenInBusiness #SmallBusiness #SuccessionPlanning #NovaScotia #ChocolateLovers #RousseauChocolatier #BlueRoots

Artificial intelligence is changing how business owners access information, but when it comes to legal matters, especially in family enterprises, the stakes are higher than ever.Tammy Buss & Yola Ventresca sit down with David Jordan, from Lerners LLP, to unpack:• The difference between legal information vs. legal advice• Why AI-generated answers can be misleading• Risks to confidentiality, privacy, and solicitor-client privilege• Where AI can support your business, and where it can seriously backfire• Why family businesses are uniquely vulnerableAI can be a powerful tool, but it doesn’t replace judgment, nuance, or accountability.If you’re using AI in your business (or thinking about it), this is a must-listen.🎧 Tune in now.#FamilyBusiness #AIinBusiness #LegalMatters #SuccessionPlanning #BusinessStrategy #TheBusinessOfFamily #Leadership #Governance #Entrepreneurship #AI #Legal #LegalPodcast #BusinessPodcast #LernersLLP #BlueRoots

In family businesses, communication isn’t just about being polite, it’s about making sure everyone can contribute their best. Misunderstandings, misaligned strengths, and different approaches to work can slow things down or even create tension.That’s where tools like the Kolbe Assessment come in. Kolbe doesn’t measure personality, it measures how people take action. It shows how each family member naturally approaches tasks and problem-solving, so you can structure roles and responsibilities in a way that plays to everyone’s strengths.In this episode of Legacy on Repeat, Tammy Buss sit down with Brett Thompson, Kolbe Certified Consultant, to explore how family businesses can use Kolbe to:Align roles with natural instinctsImprove communication and collaborationMake decision-making smoother and more effectiveReduce friction and unlock potential across generationsIf your family business is growing, evolving, or just trying to get everyone on the same page, this conversation is a must-listen. Understanding how your family takes action could be the key to unlocking the next level of success for your business, and your relationships.🎧 Listen now and discover how to turn natural strengths into real results.#TheBusinessofFamily #LegacyOnRepeat #FamilyBusiness #KolbeAssessment #BusinessCommunication #TeamDynamics #LeadershipTools #FamilyBusinessGrowth  #NextGenLeadership #Entrepreneurship #BusinessSuccess #Collaboration #Podcast #BusinessPodcast #Communication

In this episode of The Business of Family, Tammy sits down with father-and-son team Jeff Tounge and JT Tounge of Tounge Associates to talk about the real conversations behind exit planning, succession, and family dynamics.We explore:• Navigating active vs. non-active children in the business• The emotional barriers founders face when considering exitPlus, as a father and son running a firm together, Jeff and JT share their own experience balancing family and business, and what being a family business themselves allows them to see in their clients that others might miss.If your family business is wrestling with succession, ownership transitions, or preparing for a potential sale, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.🎙️ Listen now and start the conversation before you have to.#TheBusinessOfFamily #FamilyBusiness #SuccessionPlanning #ExitPlanning #FamilyEnterprise #GenerationalWealth #LeadershipTransition #Podcast #BusinessPodcast #BlueRoots

What does it look like when business and family all grow under the same roof?In this episode of The Business of Family Podcast, we sit down with Chantel and Zack of Pettengill Academy to talk about building a purpose-driven, first-generation childcare business from the ground up.What started as a small home-based program has grown into a thriving multi-site early childhood organization rooted in culture, leadership, and a deep love for children and families.In this conversation, we explore:✨How Chantel’s entrepreneurial upbringing shaped her leadership✨ Zack’s evolution from supporter to operational backbone✨ Balancing business partnership and marriage✨ Raising kids inside the family businessPettengill Academy isn’t just about childcare, it’s about creating spaces where children are celebrated, educators are empowered, and families truly belong.If you care about family business, leadership, and building something that lasts, this episode is for you.🎧 Tune in now!#TheBusinessOfFamily #FamilyBusiness #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #LegacyBuilding #PurposeDriven #FamilyEnterprise #NextGenLeadership #FamilyOwned #FamilyRunBusiness #EntrepreneurLife #EarlyChildhood #Podcast #BusinessPodcast #LeadershipPodcast #BlueRoots

What does it take to grow a family business for nearly 75 years, without losing what makes it special?In this episode, Tammy sits down with Tom Estabrook of Estabrook’s, a Maine staple that started as a poultry farm and evolved into a thriving, multi-generation garden center.From chickens to peppers to petunias, Tom shares:• How Estabrook’s evolved across four generations• What it’s really like working alongside siblings, cousins, and the next generation• How communication keeps the family, and the business, strong• Why “if you’re not growing, you’re dying” isn’t just a saying• And how failing occasionally can be one of your greatest teachersWhether you’re navigating succession, balancing tradition with innovation, or figuring out how to work with family, this conversation is packed with wisdom.🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts#TheBusinessOfFamily #FamilyBusiness #FamilyOwnedBusiness #MultiGenerationalBusiness #FamilyEnterprise #BusinessPodcast #Podcast #SuccessionPlanning #NextGenerationLeadership #BusinessLegacy #BuiltToLast #GardenCenter #MaineBusiness #EntrepreneurMindset #BlueRoots #Estabrooks

When family and business overlap, clarity matters more than ever.When people hear the word governance, they often picture big boards and corporate boardrooms, but in family businesses, governance can be the difference between harmony and conflict.In this episode, Tammy and Yola break down:• What governance really means (in plain language)• Why “we trust each other” isn’t a governance strategy• How the right structures protect both relationships and the business• Practical ways to start, without overcomplicating thingsGovernance isn’t about bureaucracy. It’s about setting expectations, reducing friction, and building something that can last for generations.🎧 Tune in to Family Matters – Legal Edition and learn why governance matters more than you think.#FamilyBusiness #FamilyEnterprise #GovernanceMatters #Governance #SuccessionPlanning #FamilyBusinessAdvisors #BusinessPodcast #LegalPodcast #FamilyMatters #BlueRoots #LernersLLP

Legacy isn’t built from just one point of view.When you look at your business through three distinct lenses — business, family, and ownership — everything changes. Decisions get clearer. Conversations get more honest. And alignment becomes possible.In this Legacy on Repeat episode, I revisit my conversation with Chris Deleaney, Trust and Estate Practitioner, lawyer, and author of The Naked Opus to explore how these three circles can communicate more effectively and support long-term continuity.If you’re navigating complexity in a family enterprise, this one’s worth another listen.🎧 Listen on your favorite listening platform#FamilyBusiness #FamilyEnterprise #LegacyOnRepeat #BusinessOfFamily#FEA # FEAAdvisor #OwnershipMindset #SuccessionPlanning #Governance#BusinessStrategy #LongTermThinking #FamilyLeadership #NextGeneration#PodcastEpisode #BlueRoots

What happens when you mix entrepreneurship, creativity, and family —then add a campground, a quilt shop, and three very different daughters?In this episode, we sit down with Marlene Greenlaw, who shares her remarkable journey from owning a campground in Maine to opening a quilt shop rooted in passion, perseverance, and family support.Marlene and her husband David run two businesses side by side,  a KOA campground and a thriving quilt shop,  while gradually welcoming their daughters and sons-in-law into the fold, each in their own way and at their own pace. From late-night sewing machine repairs and fudge making, to raising kids, pursuing careers, and planning for the future, this conversation is a beautiful look at how family businesses evolve over time.We talk about:🧵 Turning a personal passion into a thriving business🏕️ Running two businesses as a couple👨‍👩‍👧‍👧 Letting the next generation choose how (and if) they get involved🔄 Succession, stewardship, and learning by doing💛 The challenges, and the gifts, of mixing family and businessIf you’ve ever wondered what it really looks like to build something together as a family, this episode is for you.🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.#TheBusinessOfFamily #FamilyBusiness #WomenInBusiness #Entrepreneurship #SuccessionPlanning #SmallBusinessStories #FamilyEnterprise #LegacyInTheMaking #Maine #BusinessPodcast #NextGen #Podcast #BlueRoots

How does a family business grow from a single founder’s vision into a global industry leader, and stay grounded along the way?In this episode, we sit down with Randy Carr and JC Carr of World Emblem, the world’s largest emblem and patch manufacturer, to explore the remarkable evolution of their family enterprise.From growing up inside the business, to navigating leadership roles, sibling dynamics, and succession planning — Randy and JC share what it really takes to scale a family business across generations.We talk about:• Growing up in a business (and whether the path was always clear)• Transforming a small family company into a global powerhouse• Leadership lessons passed down from father to sons• Working alongside siblings and across generations• Preparing the next generation for stewardship and success• Managing family dynamics while making big leadership decisions• Hard-earned advice for families building something meant to lastThis is an honest conversation about legacy, leadership, and longevity, and the responsibility that comes with carrying a family name forward.🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.#TheBusinessOfFamily #FamilyBusiness #SuccessionPlanning #LeadershipAcrossGenerations #EnterpriseGrowth #FamilyEnterprise #LegacyLeadership #Podcast #BusinessPodcast #BlueRoots #WorldEmblem #FatherandSon #NextGenerationLeadership #FamilyOwned #FamilyLegacy #GenerationalBusiness #GlobalBusiness

🎙️The Business of Family Podcast ⚖️ Family Matters – Legal EditionWe’ve all heard the saying: don’t wait until there’s a fire to buy insurance. The same rule applies to legal planning in family businesses. In this Family Matters – Legal Edition episode, hosts Tammy & Yola unpack why reactive legal decisions (made during conflict, crisis, or transition) often cost family enterprises far more than money. From shareholder disputes and succession surprises to outdated agreements and silent partners, we explore the warning signs families too often ignore.This conversation covers:• Why waiting for a legal “emergency” damages both businesses and relationships• The core legal foundations every family enterprise should have in place• Practical steps to start fireproofing your family business todayLegal planning isn’t about expecting the worst, it’s about protecting what matters most: the business and the family behind it.#TheBusinessOfFamily #FamilyMattersLegalEdition #FamilyBusiness #LegalPlanning #SuccessionPlanning #Governance #BuiltToLast #BusinessPodcast #Podcast #LegalPodcast #BlueRoots #LernersLLP

In every family enterprise, there are three circles: Family. Business. Ownership.They overlap, and where you sit shapes how you see the business and the family. But what does it mean to belong in the family circle while choosing not to be part of the business?In this Legacy on Repeat episode, I revisit a conversation with Caverleigh Tuer, my daughter-in-law, who grew up surrounded by family business and brings a thoughtful, grounded perspective on supporting a family enterprise without working inside it. We talk about boundaries, identity, and the often-overlooked role of family members who support the legacy from the sidelines.A must-listen for families navigating roles, expectations, and generational legacy.#TheBusinessOfFamily #LegacyOnRepeat #FamilyBusiness #FamilyAndBusiness #GenerationalLegacy #FamilyEnterprise #ThreeCircleModel #BlueRoots 

What does it take to steward a legacy across generations, while staying true to the relationships that matter most?In this episode, Tammy sits down with Howie Grossinger, Camp Owner and Director of Camp Robin Hood and Camp Walden, to explore a family business story more than six decades in the making. In this conversation, Howie shares how he and his wife, Sari, stepped into leadership, carrying forward her parents’ vision while shaping the camp for the next generation.Together, they discuss:• Growing into a legacy rather than inheriting it overnight• Lessons passed down from Sari’s parents that still guide leadership today• Navigating blurred lines between family and business• Welcoming their daughter, Jordanna, into the camp and what that transition has meant• Creating space for the next generation, without pressure• Building a future-focused vision rooted in traditionThis episode is a powerful reminder that legacy isn’t just about longevity, it’s about intention, trust, and thoughtful transition.#TheBusinessOfFamily #FamilyBusiness #GenerationalLegacy #CampRobinHood #LeadershipAcrossGenerations #SuccessionPlanning #FamilyEnterprise #Podcast #BuinessPodcast #Camp #CampPodcast #BlueRoots #CampWalden

What happens when you build a business together, as partners in life and in work?In this episode, we sit down with Grant and Erin Stahla, the husband-and-wife team behind Stahla Services, a company redefining the portable restroom and shower trailer industry with a focus on quality, values, and an exceptional customer experience.Grant and Erin share:• The realities of running a business as a married couple• How they divide responsibilities and protect family time• The core values guiding their decisions• Their vision for legacy, both in business and at home• Advice for the next generation of family business leadersWe also explore their unique path, both coming from family business backgrounds, yet choosing to build something entirely their own, and how that experience shapes the way they lead today.If you’re navigating family, ownership, partnership, or legacy, this conversation is full of honest insights and practical wisdom.🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.#TheBusinessOfFamily #FamilyBusiness #Entrepreneurship #HusbandAndWifeTeam #ValuesBasedLeadership #LegacyBuilding #FamilyEnterprise #PodcastEpisode #BusinessPodcast #Podcast #BlueRoots 

Farming is more than a business. It’s land, legacy, and generations working side by side. And that makes the legal side of farm family businesses uniquely complex.In this episode of The Business of Family Podcast  - Family Matters: Legal Edition, Tammy Buss and Yola Ventresca are joined by Joseph Hentz of Lerners LLP to explore the intersection of farming, family, and the law.Together, they unpack:• What makes farm family businesses different from other enterprises• Common legal structures and ownership challenges• Why succession planning is often delayed — and the risks of waiting• How proactive legal planning can protect both relationships and the farm itselfIf your family business is rooted in the land, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.🎧 Family Matters: Legal Edition — available wherever you listen to podcasts.#BusinessOfFamilyPodcast #FamilyBusiness #FamilyEnterprise #FamilyMatters#FarmFamily  #FamilyFarm #Agribusiness #FarmingLife#FarmSuccession #FarmLegacy #SuccessionPlanning#EstatePlanning #BusinessLaw #FamilyBusinessAdvisors#Governance #FamilyAndBusiness #LegacyPlanning#NextGeneration #IntergenerationalBusiness #BlueRoots #LernersLLP

Great family businesses don’t fail because they lack vision — they struggle when communication breaks down. In this Legacy on Repeat episode of The Business of Family Podcast, Tammy Buss revisits her conversation with communication expert Brett Thompson to unpack the tools that help families stay aligned, reduce conflict, and keep both relationships and the business healthy.Because when family and business overlap, how you communicate matters just as much as what you say.🎧 Tune in to revisit the tools that stand the test of time.#thebusinessoffamily #LegacyOnRepeat #FamilyBusiness #CommunicationTools #FamilyDynamics #Leadership #SuccessionPlanning #BusinessAndFamily #Kolbe #Print #Communication #blueroots #podcast #businesspodcast

What happens when family, creativity, and legacy come together?In this episode of The Business of Family Podcast, Tammy sits down with Kelly Kolar and Audrey Eyman of Kolar Design for a candid mother–daughter conversation about building an award-winning design firm while navigating the realities of working together as family.They talk about:• The early days of Kolar Design• Stepping into , and making space for the next generation• Balancing boundaries, empathy, and leadership• What legacy really means when family is at the heart of the businessA thoughtful conversation about growth, values, and designing something that lasts, in business and beyond.🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts. #TheBusinessOfFamily #FamilyBusiness #WomenInBusiness #FamilyLegacy #SuccessionPlanning #Design #CreativeEntrepreneurs #FounderToFuture #NextGenerationLeadership #ValuesDrivenBusiness #BlueRoots #KolarDesign

Happy New Year! As we step into a brand-new year, this short episode of The Business of Family offers a simple, practical way to create clarity and alignment, without resolutions.Instead of long list of goals, Tammy Buss invites families to pause and reflect on one powerful question:What does success look like for us this year—as a family and as a business?In this episode, you’ll explore:• Why alignment matters more than resolutions• How defining success reduces conflict and builds trust• A simple five-minute exercise to bring clarity across the family, business, and ownership circlesA thoughtful way to begin the year with intention, connection, and shared direction ✨From all of us at BlueRoots, Happy New Year—here’s to a year of clarity, alignment, and meaningful progress.#TheBusinessOfFamily #FamilyBusiness #NewYearReflections #Leadership #FamilyEnterprise #BlueRoots #IntentionalLiving #BusinessPodcast #Podcast #HappyNewYear #NewYear

Happy Holidays! As we head into the Christmas season, Tammy Buss reflects on the small, but powerful traditions that quietly shape family enterprises.In this short episode of The Business of Family, we explore how shared rituals, at work and at home, create rhythm, belonging, and connection across generations. From meaningful business traditions to simple family moments around the holidays, this episode invites you to pause and reflect on what truly holds your family and enterprise together.A thoughtful listen for anyone leading, working in, or growing a family business this season 🎄From all of us at BlueRoots, Happy Holidays and thank you for being part of this community.#TheBusinessOfFamily #FamilyBusiness #Traditions #Leadership #FamilyEnterprise #BlueRoots #HappyHolidays #Christmas #BusinessPodcast #FamilyTraditions

When family and business overlap, the legal stakes are higher than most people realize. In this episode, Tammy & Yola sit down with Erin Reid of Lerners LLP to unpack where family law and family business collide—and how to avoid the legal pitfalls that can put both your company and your relationships at risk.We dive into:• Why divorce, separation, and major life events hit family businesses differently• Common mistakes that leave businesses exposed• Practical legal tools like shareholder agreements and marriage contracts• How proactive planning and open conversations can save families stress, money, and conflictLegal planning isn’t about expecting problems—it’s about protecting what matters most.🎧 Listen now and learn how to safeguard your family and your business.#FamilyBusiness #FamilyMattersPodcast #FamilyLaw #BusinessContinuity #SuccessionPlanning #Governance #LegalPlanning#NextGenLeadership#EntrepreneurLife #FamilyOwnedBusiness #ProtectWhatMatters #FamilyBusiness #LernersLLP #BlueRoots #LegalPodcast #BusinessPodcast

Legacy on Repeat is back with a conversation every family business owner needs to hear.In this episode, Tammy sits down with Shawn Bellefeuille of Buss Financial Group and Retirement by Design to break down what it really takes to transition out of the business you built.Retire, hand it down, or sell? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer — but there is a way to plan with clarity.Listen in for practical guidance on preparing for life after the business and protecting the legacy you’ve created.#FamilyBusiness #SuccessionPlanning #RetirementPlanning #WealthPlanning #LegacyPlanning #BusinessOfFamilyPodcast #BlueRoots #RetirementByDesign #BusinessPodcast #Podcast

What does it take to lead a 4th-generation family business into the future—without losing the heart of what made it great?In this episode of The Business of Family Podcast, Tammy sits down with Dottie Chalmers Cutter, 4th Generation Owner and COO of Chalmers Insurance Group, recorded on the road in Maine—our first podcast recorded outside the studio!Dottie shares her personal journey growing up in a family enterprise, her path to leadership, and how she’s transforming the company culture from performance management to people development.They dive into legacy, leadership, and the power of developing people—not just managing them.#FamilyBusiness #Leadership #SuccessionPlanning #Legacy #TheBusinessofFamilyPodcast #BlueRoots #Podcast #BusinessPodcast #NextGen #ChalmersInsurance

Only two things are certain in life — death and taxes.But in family business, how those two collide can shape your family’s future.In this episode of The Business of Family Podcast, Tammy sits down with Anthony Falcone Lawyer at Falcone Law Professional Corporation and Richard Rizzo Tax Partner at Bateman MacKay LLP to talk about what happens before and after the inevitable — and how the right tax planning can protect both your legacy and your loved ones.🎧 Tune in to hear how families can prepare, avoid common mistakes, and make tough conversations easier — before it’s too late.#FamilyBusiness #TaxPlanning #Succession #EstatePlanning #BusinessOfFamily #BusinessPodcast #BlueRoots

When ownership and family collide, things can get complicated. This week, Tammy and Yola sit down with Mitchell Brown, Partner at Lerners LLP, to unpack one of the toughest topics in family business: shareholder disputes.From unclear roles and generational tensions to buyout disagreements and succession battles — Mitchell shares legal insights and practical ways families can protect both their business and their relationships.💡 In this episode, we explore:What causes shareholder disputes in family businessesHow emotions and history complicate conflictThe legal frameworks that can prevent issues before they startWhen to call a lawyer — and when to call a mediatorMitchell’s best advice for families navigating ownership and legacy#FamilyBusiness #SuccessionPlanning #Governance #ShareholderDisputes #ConflictResolution #LegalInsights #TheBusinessOfFamilyPodcast #BlueRoots #LernersLLP #LegalPodcast #BusinessPodcast 

This week we’re revisiting a powerful conversation with Brett Thompson, an expert who knows the impact words—and silence—can have in business.In this episode, we tackle one of the biggest mistakes business owners make: failing to communicate. From navigating family dynamics to managing employees, Brett breaks down the 3 key elements of communication and shares how to keep the lines open to drive positive results.If communication has ever felt like your biggest challenge, this replay is packed with practical insights you won’t want to miss.#FamilyBusiness #BusinessLegacy #Communication #LeadershipPodcast #Entrepreneurship #BusinessPodcast #FamilyEnterprise #TeamLeadership #BusinessGrowth #SuccessionPlanning #BlueRoots

What does it take to build both a business and a legacy? 🏠In this episode, Tammy sits down with Arne and Peder Madsen — the father–son duo behind CCR Build + Remodel.From humble beginnings to a thriving design-build company, Arne shares how CCR was founded and the values that built its foundation, while Peder reflects on growing up in the business and stepping into leadership.Together, they open up about the challenges and rewards of working side by side, navigating succession, and what it truly means to build both a business and a legacy that lasts.Building homes — and building a family legacy — go hand in hand for Arne and Peder. In this heartfelt conversation, they reflect on the moments that defined their partnership and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.🎙️ Listen to this episode of The Business of Family Podcast — available wherever you get your podcasts.#TheBusinessOfFamilyPodcast #FamilyBusiness #NextGenLeadership #SuccessionPlanning #LegacyBuilding #FatherAndSon #CCRBuildRemodel #Entrepreneurship #LeadershipJourney #FamilyLegacy #Podcast #BlueRoots #BusinessPodcast 

In this episode, Tammy sits down with David Simpson, Director of the Business Families Centre at the Ivey Business School, to explore the intersection of education, entrepreneurship, and family legacy.A former professional hockey player turned entrepreneur and educator, David shares how his diverse career shaped his understanding of what makes family businesses thrive—or struggle.From generational dynamics to the emotional side of succession, David offers practical wisdom for founders, next-generation leaders, and anyone passionate about sustaining family enterprises for the long term.#TheBusinessOfFamilyPodcast #BlueRoots #FamilyBusiness #FamilyEnterprise #Entrepreneurship #NextGenLeaders #LegacyLeadership #IveyBusinessSchool #FamilyBusinessEducation#SuccessionPlanning #DavidSimpson

What does Taylor Swift have in common with your family business? More than you think.In this episode, co-hosts Tammy Buss of BlueRoots and Yola Ventresca of Lerners unpack the Taylor Swift machine: family business & legal lessons.💡 We explore:How Taylor’s parents and brother play key roles in her success.The legal side of building and protecting a global brand.What every family business can learn from the Swift enterprise — from contracts to succession planning.Whether you’re running a farm, a retail store, or the biggest pop career on the planet, the rules are the same: protect your business, protect your relationships, and plan for the future.👉 Tune in to The Business of Family Podcast for this fascinating look at fame, family, and law.#FamilyBusiness #Podcast #TaylorSwift #BusinessOfFamily #BlueRoots # Lerners #LegalPodcast #BusinessPodcast 

This week we’re bringing back a powerful conversation with Peder Madsen, owner of CCR Build + Remodel in London, Ontario.In this episode, we dive into the tough realities of second-generation ownership—the mistakes made, the lessons learned, and the achievements that shaped the journey.If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to carry forward a family business legacy, this replay is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.#FamilyBusiness #BusinessLegacy #SecondGeneration #BusinessGrowth #LeadershipPodcast #Entrepreneurship #BusinessPodcast #FamilyEnterprise #SuccessionPlanning #BusinessTransition #BlueRoots #CCRBuild+Remodel

In this episode of The Business of Family Podcast, Tammy Buss sits down with Dean Tansman, Vice President of Operations at A World of Wipes (AWOW), to explore the story of a family business rooted in innovation, responsibility, and legacy.Dean shares how his father, Avi Tansman, founded AWOW in 1991 and how growing up alongside the business shaped his own path. Now working side by side, Dean and Avi navigate the balance between tradition and innovation while scaling the company’s sustainable product lines and operations.Dean opens up about the challenges and rewards of working in a family business, how he and his father divide responsibilities, and what the future might hold for the next generation#FamilyBusiness #NextGenLeadership #BusinessOfFamily #SuccessionPlanning #BusinessPodcast #LeadershipJourney #Entrepreneurship #FamilyLegacy #AWOW #AWorldOfWipes #DeanTansman #BlueRoots #Podcast

Artificial Intelligence is changing the way we work, lead, and grow—but what does that mean for family businesses rooted in tradition?This week on The Business of Family Podcast, Tammy Buss sits down with Shaara Roman, Founder & CEO of Silverene Group, to explore how AI and organizational culture intersect—and why keeping your people at the center is the key to success.We dive into:🤖 How AI can reshape (not replace) family business traditions🌱 Why cultural readiness and leadership alignment matter most💡 Practical AI use cases in HR, governance, and strategy👥 How to prepare your team for disruption without losing who you are🎧 Tune in for a conversation that blends innovation with legacy—and learn how family businesses can embrace AI while staying true to their values.#FamilyBusiness #AI #Leadership #OrganizationalCulture #BusinessOfFamilyPodcast #BlueRoots #SilvereneGroup #Legacy #SuccessionPlanning #NextGen

A few weeks ago, we sat down with Domenic Luisi, founder of Rubinet Faucet Company, to hear the origin story of a brand built to last.Now, we hear from the next generation. Tammy Buss interviews Michael and Frank Luisi to explore their journey of stepping into leadership, defining their roles as brothers in business, and balancing their father’s legacy with their own vision for Rubinet’s future.In this episode, they share:🔹 Early memories of growing up around the family business🔹 How their paths into leadership unfolded differently🔹 The unique dynamics of decision-making as brothers🔹 Lessons on honouring legacy while carving out a new chapter🔹 Their best advice for rising generation family business leadersThis is a candid and inspiring look at what it takes to carry forward a generational brand.Check out the vodcast version on our YouTube channel @BlueRoots Inc.#BusinessOfFamily #FamilyBusiness #Rubinet #BlueRoots #BusinessPodcast #SuccessionPlanning #Entrepreneurship #NextGenLeadership #LegacyBuilding #Podcast #BusinessPodcast

We’re thrilled to introduce Family Matters: Legal Edition — a brand-new monthly segment of The Business of Family Podcast!Co-hosted by Tammy Buss (Founder of BlueRoots Inc.) and Yola Ventresca (Managing Partner at Lerners LLP), this series dives into the often-overlooked legal side of family business. From governance and ownership to conflict resolution, shareholder agreements, and succession planning — we’ll tackle it all.✨ In this first episode, Tammy and Yola share their personal journeys, what drew them to family business and law, and why legal clarity is essential to protecting not just assets, but relationships.📅 Tune in every 3rd Tuesday of the month for real-life scenarios, plain-language legal insights, and conversations that matter to family-owned businesses.Catch the vodcast version of this video on our YouTube channel @BlueRoots Inc.#BusinessOfFamily #FamilyMatters #LegalEdition #PodcastLaunch #FamilyBusiness #LernersLLP #BlueRoots #BusinessPodcast #LegalPodcast #SuccessionPlanning