8 - Navigating Family Dynamics and Professional Roles in Business
Navigating Leadership in a Family Business: Insights from James Zilenziger, COO of Rodman Media
In the latest episode of Growing Up B2B, host Ed Delia sits down with James Zilenziger, the COO of Rodman Media, a company renowned for delivering B2B industry news across sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, and personal care. With a unique perspective shaped by his experience in a family-run business, James shares invaluable insights into the complexities of leadership, building trust, and navigating family dynamics. This episode dives deep into the challenges and rewards of leading a family business in today’s evolving market, offering actionable advice for business owners and leaders.
Growing into Leadership and Navigating Family Dynamics
James Zilenziger’s journey at Rodman Media began in a rather traditional fashion, starting from the ground up in various roles throughout the company. His early experience working directly with employees across different departments provided him with a well-rounded understanding of the business, which he believes is crucial for any effective leader. Through his transition from sales to COO, James highlights the importance of resilience and understanding in leadership—especially in a family-owned business.
One key piece of advice James offers is the necessity of empathy. While many family business leaders might feel the pressure of their family name, James stresses that earning respect is a gradual process. Actively listening to employees, understanding their challenges, and offering support fosters a culture of collaboration and trust. This approach not only strengthens internal relationships but also enhances operational efficiency. As he reflects on his experiences, James encourages leaders to balance professionalism and personal relationships to prevent conflicts and maintain harmony in the workplace.
Navigating family dynamics can be tricky, especially when working alongside relatives, and James openly discusses how working with his brother-in-law and maintaining boundaries between professional and personal life has been key. He emphasizes the importance of clear communication and respecting each other’s roles to avoid misunderstandings. He also suggests that seeking external advice, such as working with an executive coach, is a valuable investment for any leader, helping them navigate challenges and refine their leadership approach.
About James Zilenziger
James Zilenziger is the Chief Operating Officer of Rodman Media, where he has leveraged his deep understanding of operations to enhance the company’s marketing and business strategies. With his background in various departments, James brings a comprehensive approach to leadership and has been pivotal in driving Rodman Media’s ongoing growth. His commitment to innovation, transparency, and empathy in leadership has allowed him to foster a strong company culture that thrives on collaboration and mutual respect.
About Rodman Media
Rodman Media is a family-owned company that provides industry-leading B2B news and insights across key sectors, including manufacturing, healthcare, and personal care. With a controlled circulation reaching over 140,000 professionals across 120 countries, Rodman Media has established itself as a premier resource for business leaders. The company’s reputation for providing accurate, timely, and relevant information has helped it remain a trusted source for industry professionals.
Links Mentioned in This Episode
Key Episode Highlights
The importance of gaining hands-on experience in all aspects of the family business
How empathy and active listening contribute to effective leadership, particularly in family-run companies
Navigating the complexities of family dynamics in business, including respecting personal boundaries and roles
The value of external resources like executive coaches to refine leadership skills and improve decision-making
Implementing modern marketing and technology strategies to stay competitive in the fast-evolving media industry
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