Leading Across Generations: How Communication Builds Stronger Family Businesses

In this episode of the Growing Up B2B Podcast, host Ed Delia speaks with Scott Gingold, Founder of Gingold Advisors, to explore the realities of running and transitioning multigenerational family businesses. Scott draws from decades of entrepreneurial and advisory experience to share practical guidance on communication, alignment, leadership development, succession, and navigating the emotional complexities that make family enterprises both challenging and rewarding. His insights offer a clear and actionable roadmap for B2B leaders shaping the future of their family businesses.

Strengthening Family Enterprises Through Communication and Alignment

Scott emphasizes that the single greatest predictor of family business success is communication. Many families unintentionally talk past each other—relying on assumptions, emotional history, or unspoken expectations. The result is misalignment that affects relationships and business performance alike. Scott encourages leaders to establish structured communication, actively clarify what’s been heard, and create boundaries between business dialogue and family interactions.

Alignment plays an equally critical role. Without shared vision, defined roles, or clear decision-making authority, business operations become strained. Scott highlights how documented responsibilities, consistent check-ins, and respect for each family member’s strengths can reduce friction and strengthen trust. Whether working with siblings, spouses, or parents, clarity allows family members to collaborate more effectively and sustainably.

Succession, Scott explains, is a process of preparation—not a handoff triggered by necessity. From starting conversations early to exploring fractional or external leadership, families must approach transitions with openness and long-term vision. Scott also warns against “ego-driven growth,” underscoring the importance of scaling with purpose, strong systems, and a clearly defined “why.” When communication, planning, and emotional intelligence align, family-owned B2B companies can grow stronger over multiple generations.

About Scott Gingold

Scott Gingold is the Founder of Gingold Advisors, where he specializes in guiding family-owned and closely held businesses through strategy, leadership alignment, communication challenges, and succession planning. With decades of experience as both a business owner and advisor, Scott is known for his candid insights and practical guidance rooted in real-world experience. Connect with him on LinkedIn.

About Gingold Advisors

Gingold Advisors helps family-owned and privately held companies strengthen communication, clarify leadership roles, improve decision-making, and navigate multigenerational transitions. Through strategic guidance and objective support, the firm empowers business owners to build healthier, more aligned, and more resilient organizations.

Links Mentioned in This Episode

• Gingold Advisors Website

• Scott Gingold LinkedIn Profile

Key Episode Highlights

• Why communication breakdowns are the root cause of most family business challenges

• How shared vision and clearly defined roles strengthen leadership alignment

• Why succession must begin early—and how to plan it as a long-term process

• The difference between purposeful growth and ego-driven expansion

• How emotional intelligence supports accountability and healthier family dynamics

Conclusion

Scott Gingold’s conversation with Ed Delia offers a grounded, insightful look at what it truly takes to lead and evolve a family business. Through intentional communication, aligned leadership, thoughtful succession planning, and purpose-driven growth, family enterprises can strengthen their legacy while preparing the next generation to thrive.

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.