62 - Crafting a Future: Blending Tradition and Innovation in a Family Flooring Business
Building on Legacy: How Flooring Foundation Balances Family, Leadership, and Modern Growth
In this episode of the Growing Up B2B Podcast, host Ed Delia speaks with Brian Knaub, Sales Executive at Flooring Foundation Corp, a family-owned flooring contracting company rooted in craftsmanship, relationships, and integrity. Brian shares his journey as a second-generation leader—discussing how he and his family have modernized their business while honoring the principles that built its foundation. From managing family dynamics to adopting new technology and leading through values, this episode offers practical insights for anyone shaping the next chapter of a family-run B2B business.
Blending Family Legacy with Modern Leadership
Brian Knaub’s story is one of growth through grounded experience. Raised around the business his father built, Brian’s education began in the field—learning how each role contributed to the company’s success. That early exposure instilled a deep respect for the craft and for the people who make great work possible. Today, that same respect shapes Flooring Foundation’s culture, emphasizing teamwork, accountability, and shared success.
After gaining experience outside the family company, Brian returned with fresh perspective and a greater appreciation for the value of structure, transparency, and communication in leadership. Transitioning into a more prominent role wasn’t without challenges—it required both emotional maturity and operational discipline. As he explains, true leadership in a family business means learning to balance kindness with authority and embracing ownership for every result, good or bad.
What makes Flooring Foundation stand out is its blend of science and craftsmanship—a legacy that began with Brian’s chemist grandfather and his father’s entrepreneurial vision. Today, Brian and his brother Josh continue that evolution by combining precision, process, and innovation. They use technology like estimating software and AI-based systems to streamline operations and communication while staying true to their company’s reputation for quality and trust. For them, progress doesn’t mean replacing tradition—it means refining it.
About Brian Knaub
Brian Knaub is a second-generation sales executive and leader at Flooring Foundation Corp, where he helps drive growth, client relationships, and innovation in the flooring contracting industry. Known for his people-first leadership and commitment to excellence, Brian continues his family’s mission to deliver quality workmanship with honesty and professionalism. Connect with him on LinkedIn.
About Flooring Foundation
Flooring Foundation is a trusted flooring contractor providing end-to-end solutions across commercial and industrial markets. Combining decades of craftsmanship with modern project management tools, the company is known for reliability, integrity, and precision. Flooring Foundation continues to uphold its legacy through innovation, teamwork, and faith-driven values that guide every client partnership.
Links Mentioned in This Episode
Key Episode Highlights
How early exposure builds leadership and respect for all roles in the business
Balancing tradition with innovation in a second-generation company
Creating healthy boundaries between family and business relationships
Leveraging technology and AI to streamline operations without losing the personal touch
The role of faith, integrity, and communication in building long-term success
Conclusion
In this Growing Up B2B episode, Brian Knaub offers a powerful reminder that leadership in a family business is as much about emotional intelligence as it is about business strategy. His journey with Flooring Foundation demonstrates how legacy, trust, and innovation can coexist—and how the next generation can build stronger, smarter, and more connected companies for the future.
Explore Ed Delia’s website to learn more about leadership strategies for family businesses and B2B growth. If you’re a B2B leader with insights to share, apply to be a guest on the Growing Up B2B Podcast here.
