Technology

134 - Building Beauty and Wellness with Heart: Growing Through Culture, Talent, and Resilience

Ed Delia

Published on: 16/09/2026

Ed Delia interviews Jessica Walker about building J.Walker Salon Group over nearly 30 years. Jessica shares lessons on resilience, culture, talent, family, technology, mentorship, and turning setbacks into opportunities.

multi-location business growth strategiesvalues-based leadership in service industriesprofessionalizing family business operationsservice business digital transformationtalent retention and culture building for entrepreneurs

125 - From Clean Vapes to AI Sales Bots: Playbook for Innovation and Resilience in Cannabis

Ed Delia

Published on: 09/08/2026

Ed Delia interviews Degelis Tufts Pilla and Greg Pilla of TribeTokes on building a cannabis wellness brand, navigating regulations, embracing AI, and scaling a values-driven business through innovation and resilience.

bootstrapped B2B brand growth strategiesvalues-driven wellness brand marketingAI automation for B2B sales pipelinesprofessionalizing multi-channel supply chain operationsco-leadership governance in family-owned businesses

121 - Legacy Reloaded: Reinventing Family Business Leadership in an AI-Driven World

Ed Delia

Published on: 27/07/2026

Ed Delia interviews Katie Rucker of MacKenzie Corp and NextGen Collaborative on modernizing family business leadership, embracing AI, authentic storytelling, and empowering next-generation leaders to honor legacy while driving innovation.

next-generation family business leadershipB2B family enterprise succession planningprofessionalizing family business operationsstrategic foresight for mid-market businessescustomer experience data analytics for B2B

116 - The Tough Talk: Overcoming Fear and Complexity in Family Business Succession Planning

Ed Delia

Published on: 16/06/2026

Ed Delia interviews Chris Bingaman on family business leadership, succession, and innovation. Chris shares lessons on integrity, appointing a non-family CEO, cancer survival, ESOP implementation, and AI-driven lumber grading.

family business multi-generational succession planningindustrial manufacturing digital transformationprofessionalizing legacy manufacturing operationsdata-driven supply chain managementemployee stock ownership plan advantages

105 - Passing the Torch with Purpose: Preparing the Fifth Generation While Leading Today’s Family Business

Ed Delia

Published on: 11/05/2026

Ed Delia interviews Patrick McGovern on family business growth, leadership, and innovation success

Family business succession planningMulti-generational leadership strategiesProfessionalizing a family-owned B2BMarine and industrial power distributionStewardship in family business transitions

99 - Why Blending Human Workers with Smart Warehouse Tech Is the Future of Family Businesses

Ed Delia

Published on: 20/04/2026

In this episode of Growing Up B2B, host Ed Delia interviews Humberto Rodriguez, Founder and CEO of Supplysoft, a company helping small and mid-sized businesses implement warehouse management systems. Humberto shares his journey from an early fascination with computers to founding Supplysoft as a family business alongside his wife and extended family. The conversation explores the challenges of blending family and business, the importance of technology adoption for small businesses, and how Supplysoft helps warehouses scale by replacing tribal knowledge with systematic processes. Humberto also discusses his vision of humans supported by technology and Supplysoft's evolution toward an advisory, AI-driven model.

Warehouse management systems for SMBsScaling family-owned B2B businessesSupply chain digital transformation strategiesOvercoming resistance to technology in manufacturingB2B warehouse operational efficiency

97 - Customer-Driven Innovation: How GEMCO and APS Are Transforming Industrial Mixing Equipment

Ed Delia

Published on: 13/04/2026

In this episode of Growing Up B2B, host Ed Delia speaks with Casey Bickhardt, fourth-generation President and CEO of GEMCO and Advanced Powder Solutions (APS). Casey shares how she unexpectedly stepped into leadership just one year after college following the passing of a key operator at APS. She discusses growing up immersed in the family business, establishing credibility with veteran teams, and how operating APS gave her invaluable customer insight that transformed GEMCO's engineering approach.

Family business leadership transitionIndustrial manufacturing innovation strategiesTumble blending and vacuum drying specializationB2B smart manufacturing adoptionFourth-generation business success stories

92 - Cultivating Future Leaders: Preparing the Next Generation for Family Business Success

Ed Delia

Published on: 25/03/2026

In this episode of "Growing Up B2B," host Ed Delia talks with Tom Garity of Compass Point about the unique challenges and opportunities facing family-owned B2B businesses. Drawing on Tom’s experience at Larsen Manufacturing and as a consultant, they discuss leadership transitions, succession planning, and the importance of aligning people, strategy, and family dynamics. Tom emphasizes clear communication, developing next-generation leaders, and preparing emotionally for succession.

Family business succession planningScaling a family-owned B2B companyProfessionalizing family business operationsLeadership transition in manufacturing firmsFamily business governance structures

88 - Protecting the Legacy: Leading Family Businesses Through Critical Transitions

Ed Delia

Published on: 09/03/2026

In this episode of "Growing Up B2B," host Ed Delia speaks with Mitchell and Jenny Sharpe of The Sharpe Group about the complexities of transitioning family businesses to the next generation. They discuss maintaining trust, culture, and reputation during leadership changes, the importance of high-touch client service, and strategies for sustainable growth and succession planning.

Family business succession planningNext-generation leadership in B2BAccounting for family-owned businessesManaging business growth transitionsProfessionalizing a family enterprise

81 - Building a Family-Run IT Business: Strategies for Success and Client Loyalty

Ed Delia

Published on: 21/01/2026

In this episode of "Growing Up B2B," host Ed Delia interviews Samuel Crane, Co-Owner of Cinch I.T., a family-run managed IT and cybersecurity franchise. Samuel shares how he, his brothers, and their partner’s family built the business, blending personalized local service with enterprise-level support. They discuss the benefits of the franchise model, the importance of clear roles, proactive client relationships, and a strong, people-centered company culture.

Managed IT franchise successFamily business role definitionB2B cybersecurity compliance strategiesScaling a managed service providerEntrepreneurial leadership mindset

79 - A Vision for Growth and Innovation in the Future of Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning

Ed Delia

Published on: 14/01/2026

In this episode of "Growing Up B2B," host Ed Delia interviews Priscilla Worthing, President of Worthing Air, a leading New Jersey HVAC company. Priscilla shares her journey from reluctant helper to company leader, discussing her return to the family business, overcoming gender barriers, and the importance of bilingual communication, inclusive training, and employee retention. She details the structured leadership transition from her father, the company’s focus on workforce development, and the integration of technology.

Family business succession planningInclusive leadership in B2BScaling legacy companiesB2B workforce development strategiesProfessionalizing the trades

68 - Navigating the Challenges of Succession Planning in a Multi-Generational Business

Ed Delia

Published on: 08/12/2025

In this episode of "Growing Up B2B," Ed Delia interviews Mike Kohler, Senior Vice President and fourth-generation leader of Kohler Coating, a 120-year-old family business serving the corrugated paper industry. Mike shares insights on sustaining legacy through innovation, overcoming economic hardships, and the importance of disciplined growth and succession planning. He discusses navigating family dynamics, learning from past generations, and the vital role of supportive relationships.

multi-generational manufacturing leadershipfamily business succession strategieslegacy-driven business innovationcorrugated industry coating solutionsresilient leadership in B2B manufacturing

54 - Generational Wisdom: Lessons from a Family Business Leader on Embracing Change

Ed Delia

Published on: 17/10/2025

In this episode of "Growing Up B2B," host Ed Delia interviews Jaclyn Epstein, Chief Operating Officer of Mica Corporation and third-generation family leader. Jaclyn shares her journey from early exposure to the family business, her career at GE, and her return to Mica in 2016. They discuss leadership dynamics in a family business, integrating professional management, industry association involvement, and Mica’s focus on sustainability and innovation in flexible packaging. Jaclyn highlights the company’s commitment to environmental responsibility, the adoption of AI, and her advice for next-generation leaders considering joining their family business.

family business leadershipB2B manufacturing innovationsustainable packaging solutionsnext-generation leadershipMica Corporation

53 - The Hidden Costs of Wealth: Addressing Emotional Baggage in Family Businesses

Ed Delia

Published on: 15/10/2025

In this episode of "Growing Up B2B," host Ed Delia welcomes longtime friend Shawn Barberis, Founder and President of More Than Money 360 (MTM360). Shawn shares his journey from estate planning lawyer to innovator in family wealth strategy, focusing on the qualitative side of wealth—values, unity, and legacy. He explains how MTM360’s digital platform helps families communicate, resolve conflicts, and foster gratitude across generations.

family business governancemulti-generational wealth planningqualitative family wealthfamily legacy and unityMore Than Money 360

52 - The Evolution of Out-of-Home Advertising: Insights from a Young Industry Professional

Ed Delia

Published on: 13/10/2025

In this episode of "Growing Up B2B," host Ed Delia interviews Conor Keough, an account executive at Lamar Advertising, who is continuing his father’s legacy at the company. Conor discusses his journey into out-of-home advertising, the evolving mix of digital and traditional billboards, and the unique culture at Lamar. He shares insights on balancing family ties with professional growth, the importance of mentorship, and adapting to industry innovations, offering listeners a candid look at navigating a family business and building a career in a dynamic advertising landscape.

Out-of-home advertising trends 2025B2B sales and marketing strategiesLamar Advertising digital billboardsBalancing family legacy in businessInnovative approaches to OOH marketing

43 - Generations of Wisdom: Business Lessons from a Family in Packaging

Ed Delia

Published on: 10/09/2025

In this episode of "Growing Up B2B," Ed Delia interviews Joe Carolan, Vice President of Sales at Carolan Packaging, a third-generation family business. Joe shares the company’s history, the challenges of running a contract packaging firm, and deeply personal stories of family resilience through tragedy and illness. He discusses lessons learned from growing up in the business, the importance of adaptability, and the value of treating customers’ products as their own.

Family business leadershipContract packaging solutionsMulti-generational business strategiesLeadership in family-owned companiesScaling B2B operations

35 - The Three-Tier Franchise Model: Revolutionizing Commercial Cleaning Operations

Ed Delia

Published on: 04/08/2025

In this episode of "Growing Up B2B," host Ed Delia interviews Adam Povlitz, CEO and President of Anago Cleaning Systems. He discusses Anago’s unique three-tier franchise model, the company’s agile pivot during COVID-19, and the ambitious $100 Million Challenge. Adam emphasizes servant leadership, the importance of technology, and preserving company culture while scaling. He also reflects on honoring his father’s legacy and advises future family business leaders to gain outside experience before joining the family enterprise.

Franchisee supportFamily business leadershipCommercial cleaning franchise modelB2B business growth strategiesLeadership and innovation

34 - Embracing AI: A Vision for the Future of Managed IT Services

Ed Delia

Published on: 30/07/2025

In this episode of "Growing Up B2B," host Ed Delia interviews Vadim Shelomyanov, President of INVAR Technologies, Inc. Vadim shares his entrepreneurial journey, from developing a university software project acquired by NYU to leading INVAR’s evolution from a family consulting business into a managed IT services firm. Vadim emphasizes continuous learning, resilience, and supporting American manufacturing, offering insights into building a successful, people-focused B2B technology company.

Managed IT services for manufacturingAI-powered procurement toolsB2B tech innovation and leadershipCloud-based IT solutions for businessesFamily-run tech companies legacy building

28 - The Best Strategies for Navigating Federal Procurement in Defense Contracting

Ed Delia

Published on: 25/06/2025

In this episode of "Growing Up B2B," host Ed Delia interviews Nicholas D'Ambrosio, CEO and Founder of NOMADICS, a technology company specializing in advanced sensing solutions for defense and critical infrastructure. The episode highlights perseverance, adaptability, and the unique dynamics of running a family business in a technical sector.

federal procurement strategiesfamily business leadershipadvanced sensing solutionsbusiness adaptability in defensetechnology integration in business

27 - Leading a Legacy: How a Fifth-Generation Sibling Team Is Shaping the Future of Manufacturing

Ed Delia

Published on: 23/06/2025

In this episode of "Growing Up B2B," host Ed Delia interviews Brielle and Tom Freda, fifth-generation siblings leading Brewster Washers, a 106-year-old precision washer manufacturer. The episode highlights the enduring legacy and adaptability required to sustain and grow a multi-generational family business.

family-owned business leadershipmulti-generational businessesprecision washers and spacersfamily business communication strategiesleadership succession planning

15 - Shaping the Future: A Legacy in High-Performance Plastic Fabrication

Ed Delia

Published on: 05/05/2025

In this episode of Growing Up B2B, host Ed Delia talks with Ellen Pietrowitz-Phillips, President of L-E-M Plastics, about her shift from the restaurant industry to leading her family’s manufacturing business. Ellen shares the challenges of stepping into leadership, the importance of hard work and customer service, and the evolving landscape of the manufacturing industry. She also offers advice for those joining family businesses and expresses optimism about the future of American manufacturing driven by innovation and technology.

family business leadershipmanufacturing industry insightssecond-generation business ownerhigh-performance plastic fabricationAmerican-made manufacturing

12 - The Family Business Tightrope: Balancing Tradition and Innovation

Ed Delia

Published on: 23/04/2025

In this episode of Growing Up B2B, host Ed Delia speaks with Maya, the first AI-powered character from Sesame Workshop, about the dynamics of family-owned businesses. They discuss navigating generational transitions, balancing tradition with innovation, and the value of clear communication and strong core values. Maya also shares how AI can support succession planning and improve customer engagement in evolving business environments.

Family business succession planningAI in family-owned businessesCommunication in family businessesBalancing tradition and innovationFamily-owned business leadership