Join us for a powerful conversation with Tammy Buss, a seasoned family business advisor and family business survivor, who offers rare insight into the emotional realities of transitioning a family enterprise.

Tammy shares firsthand stories from her own journey while unpacking the complexities of succession, communication breakdowns, and generational change. From governance pitfalls to the value of early, open conversations, this episode reveals why running a family business is never as simple as it seems… and what it truly takes to navigate transition.

Tune in to this episode as we explore:

(00:58) The work Tammy Buss does

(03:49) Self-employed financial services journey

(07:35) Evolving roles in business growth

(11:18) Three-circle model explained

(12:55) Ownership vs active involvement

(18:05) Cousins’ business transition decisions

(22:21) Family business transition strategy

(22:58) Preparing a family business for sale

(28:12) Letting go for better leadership

(31:22) Family business values and vision

(32:52) Fair vs equal in family business

(36:27) Tragedy that shaped a career

Links mentioned in this episode:

‘Passing Down Your Success’ by Tammy Buss

Tammy Buss on LinkedIn

Connect with the show:

www.fambusiness.org

www.volkboxes.com

DP Industries’ co-owner Brent Dugal takes us inside his family’s manufacturing journey – from crafting wooden flatware in the early days to delivering innovative, custom products around the world.

Brent opens up about the realities of building a business with family, the impact of generational leadership, and why communication and a bit of thick skin matter more than you think. He also shares a glimpse into the future with emerging tech like QR codes, along with his own unexpected path from aspiring pilot to business leader.

Tune in to this episode as we explore:

(01:02) Brent’s work at DP Industries

(04:16) Decline of manufacturers' reps

(08:57) QR code on chips

(12:08) Nephew’s career shift to Maine

(14:09) Family dynamics and business relationships

(18:27) Work vs family bonds

(20:55) Prioritize outcomes over details

(26:25) Lessons from flight instructing

(29:42) Get in touch with Brent Dugal

Links mentioned in this episode:

DP Industries

Political Orphanage – Podcast

Connect with the show:

www.fambusiness.org

www.volkboxes.com

Waltz and Sons aren’t just leaders in service; they’re ahead of the curve with renewable propane and committed to hands-on in-house training for both men and women on their staff. Today we’re joined by Kevin Kopack and Derek Down from Waltz and Sons to hear how a humble basement startup transformed into a thriving residential propane business. Find out why customer service is at the heart of everything they do, and how their team rituals (like daily breakfast together) foster a tight-knit, family-like culture.

Tune in to this episode as we explore:

(01:25) Residential propane business origins

(05:09) Propane as a renewable residential fuel

(08:32) How customer service drives success

(10:57) Comprehensive in-house propane training

(15:05) Connect with Waltz and Sons

Links mentioned in this episode:

Waltz and Sons

Walts and Sons on Facebook

Connect with the show:

www.fambusiness.org

www.volkboxes.com