105 - Passing the Torch with Purpose: Preparing the Fifth Generation While Leading Today’s Family Business
Ed Delia interviews Patrick McGovern on family business growth, leadership, and innovation success

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

Ed Delia interviews Audra Giese on family business leadership, modernization, and plumbing industry

Ed Delia interviews Matt Cohen on leadership, legacy, crises, and modernizing industrial supply busi

In this episode of "Growing Up B2B," host Ed Delia interviews Steve Holand, President of MyCaseBuilder, a family business specializing in custom protective cases. Steve shares his journey from helping his father in the factory to leading the company through pivotal acquisitions, operational challenges, and geographic expansion. The discussion highlights the evolution of their product offerings, the complexities of managing growth, and the recent involvement of Steve’s daughter as the third generation.

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.

In this episode of "Growing Up B2B," host Ed Delia interviews Michelle Renda Gill, Owner and Stylist of Social The Salon, who transformed her father’s salon, Act Two, into her own brand, Social. Michelle shares her journey from growing up in the salon to rebranding and expanding the business, navigating family dynamics, and fostering a supportive, creative culture. She discusses the challenges of honoring legacy while innovating, the importance of intentional company culture, and her vision for growth.

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.

In this episode of "Growing Up B2B," host Ed Delia interviews Mitch Caniff, third-generation CEO of RK Packaging. Mitch shares candid insights on leading a century-old family business, discussing the challenges of succession, balancing legacy with innovation, and preparing his sons for future leadership. The conversation covers emotional and cultural dynamics of generational transition, the importance of vision, and practical strategies for fostering resilience, open communication, and continuous learning.

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.

In this episode of "Growing Up B2B," host Ed Delia interviews Brendan Wilson, President of Montrose Molders Corp., a third-generation family business specializing in plastic components. Brendan discusses the company’s 60-year history, the upcoming generational transition as his father retires and his brother becomes operations manager, and their commitment to innovation and core values.

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.