The Family Business Podcast

SummaryIn this episode of the show I bring together what we have covered in the series so far. We further explore the concept of Empowered Ownership, emphasising its distinction from authority and the importance of clarity in decision-making. It highlights how aligned ownership can lead to successful governance and family relationships, while misaligned ownership poses risks to continuity.Ownership Masterclass On the 2nd December I am hosting an online Masterclass exploring the topic of Empowered Ownership in which we'll cover the key aspects discussed in this series in greater depth with the opportunity to ask questions. By the end of the session, you’ll leave with:A Pre-Gift Conversation Checklist – what to discuss, and what’s too important to skipA clear conversation model to bring structure and confidence to potentially awkward discussionsLanguage and framing tools that keep dialogue constructive, not confrontationalA method to align expectations across generations without creating false harmonyConfidence that your family is genuinely on the same page Sign up for the Masterclass here: https://www.bhavana.familybusinesspartnership.com/p/OwnershipSupport the ShowThe podcast is entirely self-funded by me. I am not looking for sympathy as it is something that I love to do and I have a passion for providing great content for family businesses across the world. Some listeners have asked for ways in which they can support the show, be that through reviews, sharing with friends or a donation. As such I have set up a page that outlines all the ways that you can support what I am doing. www.fambizpodcast.com/support Work With Russ If what I have spoken about in the show resonates and you want to discuss how I can help you and your family business drop me an email: russ@familybusinesspartnership.com or head over to www.familybusinesspartnership.com Sign up to the Newsletter You can get podcasts, videos and blogs delivered directly to your inbox by signing up to the newsletter. Head over to www.fambizpodcast.com and sign up now

SummaryIn this episode, Russ Haworth discusses the importance of ownership in business strategy and the need for clear roles and alignment among owners. He emphasizes the significance of preparing future generations for ownership and ensuring healthy relationships with management teams.LinksThe Four Room Model - https://banyan.global/spotlight/the-four-room-model/ Episode with John Davis discussing The Three Circle Model - https://fambizpodcast.com/episode43/Assessment - https://familybusinessassessment.scoreapp.comSupport the ShowThe podcast is entirely self-funded by me. I am not looking for sympathy as it is something that I love to do and I have a passion for providing great content for family businesses across the world. Some listeners have asked for ways in which they can support the show, be that through reviews, sharing with friends or a donation. As such I have set up a page that outlines all the ways that you can support what I am doing. www.fambizpodcast.com/support Work With Russ If what I have spoken about in the show resonates and you want to discuss how I can help you and your family business drop me an email: russ@familybusinesspartnership.com or head over to www.familybusinesspartnership.com Sign up to the Newsletter You can get podcasts, videos and blogs delivered directly to your inbox by signing up to the newsletter. Head over to www.fambizpodcast.com and sign up nowMentioned in this episode:The PathIf you would like to find out more about the Guided and Self-Guided versions of The Path, please head to https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath

SummaryIn this conversation, Russ Haworth explores the intricate relationship between family values and the underlying needs that drive them. He emphasises that when families disagree over values, they are often expressing unmet or conflicting needs. For instance, valuing loyalty may indicate a need for security, while valuing freedom may reflect a desire for autonomy. This understanding can transform family dynamics and improve communication.TakeawaysWhen you say you value loyalty, you're expressing a need for security.Valuing freedom indicates a need for autonomy.Disagreements over values often stem from unmet needs.A founder's value of hard work may hide a need for control.Next-gen family members may value creativity for self-expression.Understanding these needs can change family conversations.Neither perspective is wrong; they reflect different positions.Values are often a reflection of deeper needs.Communication improves when we understand underlying needs.Recognising generational differences can enhance family dynamics.Article Links Matt Wesley Dennis Jaffe Assessment and Blog Links Assessment Blog Support the ShowThe podcast is entirely self-funded by me. I am not looking for sympathy as it is something that I love to do and I have a passion for providing great content for family businesses across the world. Some listeners have asked for ways in which they can support the show, be that through reviews, sharing with friends or a donation. As such I have set up a page that outlines all the ways that you can support what I am doing. www.fambizpodcast.com/support Work With Russ If what I have spoken about in the show resonates and you want to discuss how I can help you and your family business drop me an email: russ@familybusinesspartnership.com or head over to www.familybusinesspartnership.com Sign up to the Newsletter You can get podcasts, videos and blogs delivered directly to your inbox by signing up to the newsletter. Head over to www.fambizpodcast.com and sign up nowMentioned in this episode:The PathIf you would like to find out more about the Guided and Self-Guided versions of The Path, please head to https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath

SummaryIn this conversation, Russ Haworth discusses the complexities of shared ownership in family businesses, emphasising the importance of individual fulfillment and the need for a collective vision that respects diverse goals. He highlights that alignment in ownership does not require uniformity, but rather a common understanding of how the business can support each family member's aspirations.TakeawaysFamilies often feel pressured to have the same dreams or goals.Alignment in ownership does not mean identical understanding.Respecting individual fulfilment is crucial for collective success.A clear ownership vision helps guide family businesses.Finding common ground is essential for effective collaboration.Individual aspirations can contribute to a stronger collective vision.Legacy creation is a key aspect of shared ownership.Honest conversations about fulfillment lead to better outcomes.Diversity in goals can enhance business support.Shared ownership requires ongoing dialogue and understanding.Support the ShowThe podcast is entirely self-funded by me. I am not looking for sympathy as it is something that I love to do and I have a passion for providing great content for family businesses across the world. Some listeners have asked for ways in which they can support the show, be that through reviews, sharing with friends or a donation. As such I have set up a page that outlines all the ways that you can support what I am doing. www.fambizpodcast.com/support Work With Russ If what I have spoken about in the show resonates and you want to discuss how I can help you and your family business drop me an email: russ@familybusinesspartnership.com or head over to www.familybusinesspartnership.com Sign up to the Newsletter You can get podcasts, videos and blogs delivered directly to your inbox by signing up to the newsletter. Head over to www.fambizpodcast.com and sign up nowTo join our Ownership Masterclass - Register here: https://www.bhavana.familybusinesspartnership.com/p/OwnershipMentioned in this episode:The PathIf you would like to find out more about the Guided and Self-Guided versions of The Path, please head to https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath

SummaryIn this episode of the Family Business Podcast, Russ Haworth delves into the concept of empowered ownership, emphasising its significance as a foundational principle for family businesses. He discusses the rights, roles, and responsibilities that come with ownership, and how clarity in these areas can lead to more constructive conversations and better decision-making within families. The episode encourages families to explore their understanding of ownership and its implications for their business and personal fulfilment.TakeawaysEmpowered ownership is about understanding rights, roles, and responsibilities.Clarity in ownership leads to constructive conversations.Ownership discussions should happen proactively, not just at transition points.Understanding ownership can alleviate feelings of burden and overwhelm.Fulfillment is a key measure of success in family business ownership.Ownership is often an outcome of passion, not the original goal.Families should explore what ownership means to them collectively.Empowered ownership fosters strategic decision-making and stability.Conversations about ownership can unlock significant value for families.Reflecting on ownership can lead to a more fulfilling family business experience.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Empowered Ownership01:27 Understanding Empowered Ownership05:31 The Importance of Clarity in Ownership08:12 Challenges of Discussing Ownership11:26 Exploring Ownership in Family Business15:42 The Role of Fulfilment in Ownership17:36 Conclusion and Next StepsSupport the ShowThe podcast is entirely self-funded by me. I am not looking for sympathy as it is something that I love to do and I have a passion for providing great content for family businesses across the world. Some listeners have asked for ways in which they can support the show, be that through reviews, sharing with friends or a donation. As such I have set up a page that outlines all the ways that you can support what I am doing. www.fambizpodcast.com/support Work With Russ If what I have spoken about in the show resonates and you want to discuss how I can help you and your family business drop me an email: russ@familybusinesspartnership.com or head over to www.familybusinesspartnership.com Sign up to the Newsletter You can get podcasts, videos and blogs delivered directly to your inbox by signing up to the newsletter. Head over to www.fambizpodcast.com and sign up nowMentioned in this episode:The PathIf you would like to find out more about the Guided and Self-Guided versions of The Path, please head to https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath

SummaryIn this episode, Russ Haworth introduces a new direction for the Family Business podcast, focusing on real conversations with families rather than interviews with external guests. He emphasizes the importance of relationships, responsibilities, and legacy in family businesses, advocating for a flourishing life both personally and professionally.The episode outlines the three pillars of mindset, behaviour, and knowledge, and introduces The Ten Principles of Flourishing that will be explored in future episodes, starting with empowered ownership.Chapters02:58 Shifting Focus: From Interviews to Real Conversations04:44 The Concept of Flourishing in Family Business07:45 Mindset, Behaviour, and Knowledge: The Three Pillars10:18 Introducing the 10 Principles of Flourishing15:43 Deep Dive into Empowered Ownership and Future TopicsYou can access the Assessment hereMentioned in this episode:The PathIf you would like to find out more about the Guided and Self-Guided versions of The Path, please head to https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath

In this episode of The Family Business Podcast, we explore two closely connected ideas from the Eightfold Path: Right Mindfulness and Right Concentration — or what we might now call focus.Mindfulness, when taught well, is a powerful three-part skill: notice, pause, change. It allows us to catch unhelpful thoughts or reactions before they spiral, giving us the space to shift into a wiser frame of mind. But Martin also highlights a crucial point — mindfulness isn’t just about being aware. It’s about being aware skilfully.Alongside this is the practice of Right Concentration — the ability to hold your attention where it matters, without being pulled off course by distraction, fatigue, or emotion. Together, these two skills help us stay steady — whether we're in a boardroom, around the dinner table, or navigating life’s daily ups and downs.In a world of constant interruption and overstimulation, this conversation is a grounding one — especially for those in family businesses, where clarity of mind can be the difference between reactivity and wise leadership.Key Topics:Why mindfulness is more than just “being present”The three-step method: Notice, Pause, ChangeHow to stay focused in a world full of noiseThe difference between casual awareness and skilful attentionPractical tools to reduce mental clutter and strengthen concentrationWant to explore this further?The Path is a mindfulness-based programme designed specifically for those in or advising family businesses. It offers practical guidance grounded in ancient wisdom, helping you build clarity, resilience, and better decision-making.Learn more at https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath/

In this episode of The Family Business Podcast, we take a closer look at Right Effort — a reminder that meaningful change doesn’t happen by chance, and it doesn’t happen overnight.Drawing from the Buddhist tradition, Martin explains that the word “Right” here means skilful. Skilful effort is steady, thoughtful, and sustainable. It isn’t about perfection or pushing yourself to exhaustion — but nor is it about giving up when things get hard.Changing the way we think, respond, and behave — especially in the face of stress, family dynamics, or business pressures — takes practice. And that practice requires a particular kind of energy: one rooted in care, persistence, and balance.This episode is especially useful for those who feel they’re “trying” to live or lead differently but aren’t seeing instant results. It’s a reminder that the path to clarity, kindness, and effectiveness is built one step — and one skilful effort — at a time.Key Topics:What “Right Effort” really means — and why it’s not about strivingHow to avoid burnout while still committing to meaningful changeWhy mindfulness requires consistent practice to take rootThe role of patience, persistence, and balance in both personal growth and leadershipPractical guidance for cultivating sustainable effort in work and lifeWant to explore this further?The Path is our unique mindfulness-based programme designed for those in or advising family businesses. It blends timeless wisdom with practical tools to help you live and lead with clarity and purpose.Find out more at https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath/

In this episode of The Family Business Podcast, we explore Right Livelihood — a concept that feels strikingly modern, despite being taught by the Buddha over 2,500 years ago.Today we hear terms like purpose-driven business, CSR, or ESG, but the heart of the idea is timeless: how we make our living matters. Not just in terms of profit, but in terms of integrity, impact, and alignment with our values.Martin reflects on the Buddha’s surprisingly direct teachings to rulers, employers, and workers alike, encouraging them to avoid livelihoods that cause harm, and to pursue work that contributes positively to society. And if we find ourselves in a role that compromises our values? The Buddha advised making amends through good deeds and conscious reflection.For anyone in a family business, this teaching is especially resonant. How we earn, invest, and lead shapes more than just the bottom line, it shapes the legacy we leave behind. Right Livelihood is about asking not just how successful are we?, but what are we actually contributing through our work?To find out more about The Path visit - https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath/

In this episode of The Family Business Podcast, we turn our attention to Right Action, one of the eight elements of the Eightfold Path, and a powerful lens through which to view our choices, habits, and impact on others.But what does “Right” really mean? As Martin explains, it's not about being perfect or morally superior. It’s about being skilful. Making choices that are wise, kind, and constructive, even in the face of stress, pressure, or uncertainty.Drawing on the core lessons within the Four Noble Truths, we look at how much of our unhappiness comes not from what happens to us, but from how we respond. And one of the most important responses we can cultivate is through action, what we do, how we do it, and why we do it.This episode is particularly relevant for those working in or with family businesses, where every action, from leadership decisions to daily conversations, can ripple through the whole system. Mindfulness gives us the space to act with clarity, not just urgency. And that can be the difference between reactions that escalate tension, and actions that build trust and understanding.To find out more about The Path visit - https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath/

Certainly. Here's a refreshed episode title and updated show notes that reflect the focus on communication while staying true to the content and tone of The Path:🎧 New Episode Title:"The Lost Art of Listening: Mindful Communication in a Noisy World"Show Notes:In this re-released episode of The Family Business Podcast, we explore how mindfulness can radically improve the way we communicate — at home, at work, and within our families.Drawing on the teachings of the Buddha and the foundational principles of The Path, Martin Stepek introduces two practical and transformative skills: mindful listening and conscious breathing. These are not abstract ideas — they are everyday tools that can prevent unnecessary conflict, deepen trust, and help us respond with thoughtfulness rather than react out of habit.Martin begins by unpacking one of the most overlooked aspects of communication: the tendency to only half-listen. He explains how we often prepare our responses while someone else is still speaking — which means we miss their meaning entirely. With mindfulness, we can train ourselves to truly listen, to pause, and to respond with clarity and care.We also look at the role of the breath, not just as a tool for relaxation, but as a reliable way to regulate emotion in real time. Whether it’s irritation in a meeting or tension at home, using the breath as a mental reset can prevent needless arguments and foster wiser, calmer exchanges.Together, these two skills form the basis of what the Buddhist tradition calls “Right Speech”, communication that is considered, kind, and constructive. In a world of fast replies and constant distraction, they’re more important than ever.If you're interested in taking these ideas further, explore The Path — our practical mindfulness programme designed specifically for those working in or with family-owned businesses.Find out more about The Path here: https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath/

Right Intention: Skilful Thinking for a Better LifeIn this episode, we take a closer look at one of the eight elements of the Eightfold Path — Right Intentions, sometimes called Right Thoughts.The word “Right” here does not mean morally superior or correct in a rigid sense. It is better understood as skilful or wise. This matters because the quality of our thoughts shapes the quality of our lives.Martin and I explore how our automatic thinking often leads to poor decisions, unnecessary stress, and reactive behaviour. By learning to notice and guide our thoughts more skilfully, we can reduce suffering and increase our clarity. This is not about controlling every thought, but about cultivating an approach to thinking that is more deliberate, more compassionate, and more constructive.To learn more about The Path, our unique programme for individuals and families in business, visit:https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath/If you would like to get in touch, you can email me at russ@familybusinesspartnership.comMentioned in this episode:The PathIf you would like to find out more about the Guided and Self-Guided versions of The Path, please head to https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath

In this look at the Four Noble Truths, we turn to the most practical element — the path forward.The Fourth Noble Truth teaches that if we want to reduce suffering and build a more peaceful life, we need to develop certain skills. These are not abstract ideas, but habits of mind and behaviour that can be cultivated through deliberate effort. This is what the Buddha’s Eightfold Path offers.Each part of the Eightfold Path begins with the word “Right.” Here, “Right” is best understood as skilful or wise — not moralistic or correct in an absolute sense. These eight areas are:Right UnderstandingRight Intentions or ThoughtRight Speech or CommunicationRight ActionsRight LivelihoodRight EffortRight MindfulnessRight Concentration or FocusTogether, they offer a practical framework for living with greater awareness, integrity and clarity — qualities that matter just as much in business and family life as they do in personal reflection.To learn more about The Path, our unique programme for individuals and families in business, visit:https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath/If you would like to speak with us or ask any questions, feel free to email me at russ@familybusinesspartnership.comMentioned in this episode:The PathIf you would like to find out more about the Guided and Self-Guided versions of The Path, please head to https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath

The Third Noble Truth: The End of SufferingIn this episode, we continue our series on the Four Noble Truths by exploring the Third — the truth that suffering can end.The Buddha taught that while life involves dissatisfaction and struggle, it does not have to stay that way. When we learn to understand and reduce the “thirsts” — the cravings and aversions that drive our reactions — we begin to create space for peace of mind. This is not about denying life’s challenges, but about changing how we relate to them.Martin and I talk about how we can all develop simple but powerful skills that help us suffer less, even in difficult moments. These teachings are not abstract ideas, but practical tools for daily life — at home, at work, and in our relationships.To learn more about The Path, our unique programme for individuals and families in business, visit:https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath/If you have any questions or would like to speak with us directly, you can email me at russ@familybusinesspartnership.comMentioned in this episode:The PathIf you would like to find out more about the Guided and Self-Guided versions of The Path, please head to https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath

The Second Noble Truth: The Cause of SufferingThis episode continues our exploration of the Buddha’s core teachings, looking closely at the Second Noble Truth. While the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path are ancient concepts, they remain powerful tools for understanding modern life.The Second Noble Truth teaches that much of our dissatisfaction and suffering comes not just from what happens to us, but from how our minds respond. When life doesn’t go the way we hoped, or when we lose something we value, the mind reacts. The Buddha called these reactions “thirsts” — our cravings for things to be different from how they are.Together, Martin and I discuss how this understanding can help us take a different view of challenges and setbacks. Rather than blaming ourselves or others, we can begin to notice our inner reactions more clearly. That awareness gives us real choice.To learn more about The Path, our unique programme for individuals and families in business, visit:https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath/If you would like to get in touch, you can email me at russ@familybusinesspartnership.comMentioned in this episode:The PathIf you would like to find out more about the Guided and Self-Guided versions of The Path, please head to https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath

The Four Noble Truths: Understanding the First StepIn this episode, Martin and I begin our exploration of one of the most enduring teachings in mindfulness and Buddhism: The Four Noble Truths. These are not abstract religious ideas, but practical insights into how we might live with greater awareness and less unnecessary suffering.We start with the First Noble Truth. This teaches that life, by its nature, includes dissatisfaction, frustration and, at times, suffering. At first glance, that might not sound too uplifting. But as we explore it together, you’ll see why recognising this truth is actually the beginning of something hopeful and empowering.This conversation offers a fresh way to think about everyday challenges, whether at home, at work or within yourself.To learn more about The Path, our unique programme for individuals and families in business, visit:https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath/If you have questions or would like to connect, you can email me directly at russ@familybusinesspartnership.comMentioned in this episode:The PathIf you would like to find out more about the Guided and Self-Guided versions of The Path, please head to https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath

SummaryIn this episode of the Family Business Podcast, Russ Haworth, Martin Stepek, and Alec Broadhurst discuss the intersection of mindfulness and family business dynamics. They explore personal journeys into mindfulness, the Four Noble Truths, and the Eightfold Path, emphasizing the importance of understanding emotional challenges within family businesses. The conversation highlights the value of mindfulness as a tool for improving family relationships and decision-making processes in business contexts. The hosts also introduce a new program, The Path, designed to help families navigate the complexities of working together.TakeawaysMindfulness can significantly improve family business dynamics.The Four Noble Truths provide a framework for understanding suffering in life.Practicing mindfulness is a lifelong journey that requires effort.Effective communication is crucial in family businesses.Understanding emotional challenges can lead to better decision-making.Mindfulness helps in recognising and managing stress.The Eightfold Path offers practical guidance for living mindfully.Family businesses often face unique challenges that mindfulness can help address.Personal growth through mindfulness can enhance family relationships.The Path program aims to provide tools for navigating family business complexities.Find out more about The Path by heading to https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath

SummaryIn this episode of the Family Business Podcast, Russ Haworth speaks with Annamaria Koerling, founding partner of Delfin Private Office, about the evolving landscape of family offices. They discuss the importance of governance, the unique challenges of succession planning, and the role of philanthropy in fostering family cohesion. Annamaria emphasises the need for tailored governance structures that reflect each family's values and purpose, and the significance of deliberate practice in maintaining open communication. The conversation also highlights the benefits of involving external advisors to navigate complex family dynamics and ensure effective decision-making.TakeawaysFamily offices provide comprehensive services to manage wealth across generations.Governance structures are critical for the success of family offices.Each family office is unique, requiring tailored governance solutions.Succession planning is a major concern for family offices.Philanthropy can enhance family cohesion and engagement.Deliberate practice in family conversations is essential for success.External advisors can provide valuable perspectives and support.Effective communication of values and purpose is crucial for families.Families should consider the impact of relocation on their operations.Creating a family bank can promote entrepreneurial spirit among family members.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Family Offices03:03 The Importance of Governance in Family Offices06:00 Tailoring Governance to Family Uniqueness09:04 Critical Governance Considerations for Family Offices12:01 Impact of Relocation on Family Office Operations15:11 Succession Planning and Next Generation Involvement17:58 Promoting Entrepreneurial Spirit in the Next Generation20:51 The Role of Philanthropy in Family Cohesion25:00 Deliberate Practice in Family Conversations27:53 The Value of External Advisors in Family GovernanceMentioned in this episode:The PathIf you would like to find out more about the Guided and Self-Guided versions of The Path, please head to https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath

Given the recent changes in legislation announced in the Budget, I am re-releasing this episode to highlight the value and importance of Lifeboat Drills for your Family Business. An actual lifeboat drill is essentially a practice evacuation of a ship using the lifeboats on board. I am not advocating everyone rushing out and practising evacuations, however it is the purpose of a lifeboat drill that is important here.The reason that lifeboat drills are important for sailors is that if and when they need to use the lifeboats they want the reassurance of knowing that:The lifeboat does the job it is there to do; andIf anything does go wrong that it is not at a time of emergency and you can do something about it.It is this principle that I am advocating.A lifeboat drill for your family business is essentially looking at a number of 'what if' scenarios that allow you to test that the legal, financial and business procedures you have in place are fit for purpose.Work With Russ If what I have spoken about in the show resonates and you want to discuss how I can help you and your family business drop me an email: russ@familybusinesspartnership.com or head over to www.familybusinesspartnership.com Sign up to the Newsletter You can get podcasts, videos and blogs delivered directly to your inbox by signing up to the newsletter. Head over to www.fambizpodcast.com and sign up nowMentioned in this episode:The PathIf you would like to find out more about the Guided and Self-Guided versions of The Path, please head to https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath

SummaryIn this episode of the Family Business podcast, Russ Haworth and Matt Braithwaite discuss the critical importance of succession planning for family businesses, drawing on recent research conducted by the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP). They explore the alarming statistics regarding the lack of succession plans and up-to-date wills among family business owners, the complexities of modern family dynamics, and the essential role of professional advisors in navigating these challenges. The conversation emphasises the need for proactive planning, effective communication, and the impact of recent budget changes on family businesses.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Family Business Dynamics06:09 Key Findings from STEP's Research12:11 Challenges in Succession Planning17:46 Communication and Family Dynamics23:47 The Impact of Recent Budget Changes30:00 Conclusion and Future ConsiderationsMentioned in this episode:The PathIf you would like to find out more about the Guided and Self-Guided versions of The Path, please head to https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath