Mixing Family and Business Podcast

Ready to discover what it really takes to run multiple businesses with your family? In this episode we share unfiltered stories about the true meaning of a "long day" in our family businesses, from sunrise starts and midnight finishes to juggling side hustles alongside our main operations. You'll hear how our routines evolved across generations and the key lessons we picked up along the way about prioritizing, letting go, and building something that lasts. We also break down the process of handing off leadership and responsibility, exploring both the intentional strategies and the accidental moments that shaped our transition. From letting the next generation step up with a safety net, to sharing the importance of transparency, exposure, and knowing when to step back, you'll get actionable insights into developing your family’s next leaders. Whether you’re looking to prepare your business for the future, or simply curious about the dynamics of a family-run operation, this episode will give you plenty to think about as you build your own legacy. Got a story to share or a question you'd like answered in a future episode? Email Brian at brian@mixingfamilyandbusiness.com.  Make sure to check out our website to learn more!

Ready to take a look behind the curtain at what it really takes to mix family and business? In this episode we talk about unforgettable coworkers, the challenges and rewards of running multiple businesses, and how we prepared the next generation for leadership. We discuss the early days, lessons learned from mentors who shaped us, and why giving your family exposure to the business, without forcing them to follow in your footsteps, matters so much for long-term success. You’ll hear our stories about hands-on learning, the importance of industry events, bringing people into decision-making, and the role of allowing mistakes in true growth. If you’re thinking about succession planning, developing new leaders, or figuring out how to balance family dynamics with business needs, this episode offers practical advice you can apply right away. Tune in for actionable insights from my own experience and find out how to set up the next generation for both confidence and success. Got a story to share or a question you'd like answered in a future episode? Email Brian at brian@mixingfamilyandbusiness.com.  Make sure to check out our website to learn more!

Ever wondered what it really takes to make big decisions in family business, sometimes with zero information at all? In this week’s episode, I sit down with Kim, Shirley, and Tom to unpack our most memorable leap-of-faith moments, from choosing the site of our highest-volume Dairy Queen practically on a whim, to starting careers and buying motorhomes with little more than gut feeling and determination. I’ll share how those snap decisions led to unexpected (and sometimes wild) successes, plus how my own approach to decision-making has evolved over decades of business ownership and leadership. Got a story to share or a question you'd like answered in a future episode? Email Brian at brian@mixingfamilyandbusiness.com.  Make sure to check out our website to learn more!

Ever wondered what it really takes to run multiple businesses with your family? In this episode, I sit down with Kim, Shirley, and Tom to get raw and honest about the disagreements we’ve had, the times we realized someone else was right, and all those “almost” moments, the partnerships and businesses we nearly started (but didn’t). From scrutinizing P&Ls to dodging disaster (like that Dairy Queen with the flooded basement), we revisit our experiences and share what we learned from the opportunities we passed on, as well as the ones that made us stronger. If you’re curious about how to mix family dynamics with business decisions, handle near-misses, and make smart moves for growth, you’ll find plenty of practical lessons and a few laughs in this episode. Tune in for some real talk about building, buying, and sometimes bravely walking away. See you next episode let’s keep learning and growing together! Got a story to share or a question you'd like answered in a future episode? Email Brian at brian@mixingfamilyandbusiness.com.  Make sure to check out our website to learn more!

On this episode of Mixing Family and Business, I’m joined by Tom, Kim, and Shirley as we bring you right back to those unforgettable moments from the distinct stench of rotten potatoes to the surprisingly powerful nostalgia of an old grocery store. We kick things off with laughs and memories, but quickly dive deep into how those experiences shaped our approach to business and family alike. I open up about the real myths and challenges of running a family business debunking the drama, talking about what kids do (or don’t) get handed, and digging into what truly makes a family company scalable. Together, we share how the personality and drive of each family member impacts the entire business, why teamwork trumps entitlement, and why success comes down to clear values and honest work. If you’re ready for honest stories, big laughs, and actionable advice, hit play and let’s clear the air smells and all about what it really takes to thrive as a family in business. Got a story to share or a question you'd like answered in a future episode? Email Brian at brian@mixingfamilyandbusiness.com.  Make sure to check out our website to learn more!

In this episode, we dive deep into what it really takes to run multiple businesses in a changing world. From the first skills that sparked their confidence, to memorable stories around ice cream scoops and grocery store routines, you’ll get the inside scoop (pun intended!) on how this family built, grew, and adapted their systems for success. You’ll hear us break down the cost of houses from the 60s to the 80s, and today,  compare incomes, payments, and the impact of inflation on making big decisions. Get ready for a fun look at gas wars, candy bar prices, bread, and how those dollars stretched across generations. Discover why adaptability, day-to-day routines, and a bit of grit make all the difference in business and family alike. Plus, learn firsthand how the lessons from small successes (like perfecting that ice cream scoop) shape the approach to bigger triumphs. Whether you’re curious about business, family, or how much a loaf of bread used to cost, this episode is packed with wisdom, laughs, and the kind of advice you can only get from those who’ve lived it. Got a story to share or a question you'd like answered in a future episode? Email Brian at brian@mixingfamilyandbusiness.com.  Make sure to check out our website to learn more!

On this week’s episode of Mixing Family and Business Podcast we chat about the old-school business habits and tools we just can’t quit, stuff like paper notebooks, showing up on time, and honestly, cash registers still do the job! There’s something about jotting down a list with pen and paper that keeps my day on track, even with all the tech out there. You’ll hear some funny throwbacks and real talk on why some habits just work, no matter how many gadgets hit the market. We also dive into the tech we didn’t trust at first but now can’t imagine living without, yep, I’m looking at you, QuickBooks and email portals. Plus, there’s a little advice for anyone who feels overwhelmed with all the new tools: just pick one or two and get comfortable, you don’t need to be a tech wizard overnight. I even share one of my “magic moments,” like printing a doc from my couch straight to the Dairy Queen office, seriously, how cool is that? So if you want practical tips, some relatable laughs, and a look at how business is changing (but still kinda the same), hit play and join the conversation with us! Got a story to share or a question you'd like answered in a future episode? Email Brian at brian@mixingfamilyandbusiness.com.  Make sure to check out our website to learn more!

In this episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes from the jobs I dreaded in the early days to the moments that made it all worthwhile. Whether it’s cleaning bathrooms, facing shelves, or wrestling with pop nozzles, we all have our “I can’t wait to hand this off!” stories. But business isn’t just about hard work; it’s about building memories, too. I talk with Shirley, Kim, and Tom about the creative ways we found time for vacations, hobbies, and spontaneous adventures. From snowmobile trips and boating at sunset to day-trips to Chicago and bargain-hunting in Tijuana, we managed to build traditions that kept us close and recharged for the journey ahead. We prove that you don't have to wait for the “perfect time” to have fun you just make it happen, even when business feels all-consuming. If you’re walking that fine line between family and entrepreneurship, don’t forget: fun matters. I share why taking time off isn’t just a luxury, but a survival skill, one that keeps you, your team, and your family happy for the long haul. Hit play and let’s dive into the real-life stories and wisdom that will help you blend business success with a life you love. Let’s make sure we enjoy the ride together! Got a story to share or a question you'd like answered in a future episode? Email Brian at brian@mixingfamilyandbusiness.com.  Make sure to check out our website to learn more!

Ever wonder what it was really like to run a business back in the ’50s and ’60s and what’s actually changed (and stayed the same) today? In this week’s episode of Mixing Family and Business, I’m taking you behind the curtain with my amazing guests Tom, Shirley, and Shirley as we compare everything from unloading trucks by hand to customers actually enjoying a good visit in the checkout line. From the days when you knew every customer (and their favorite brand of smokes!) to today’s DoorDash deliveries and credit card expectations. I share stories straight from our family businesses, digging into how physical work has shifted (hello, 100-pound sacks of potatoes!), how technology has changed behind the scenes, and why customer loyalty used to mean walking your groceries out to a neighbor’s car. We talk honestly about the rise in customer expectations, how self-checkout and convenience have taken center stage, and why people still crave a real connection even if it happens more in the “slow lane” these days. If you love real talk, practical advice, and the behind-the-scenes of juggling businesses and family life, this episode’s for you. Hit play and let’s keep building, learning, and connecting together! Got a story to share or a question you'd like answered in a future episode? Email Brian at brian@mixingfamilyandbusiness.com.  Make sure to check out our website to learn more!

In this episode I sit down with Shirley, Tom, and Kim to reminisce about the hands-on processes we used to do, from handwritten ledgers to managing schedules with pen and paper. Trust me, some of these will shock you! I’m sharing our real-world lessons in hiring, firing, and promoting and why putting the right person in the right seat (not just the most experienced one) changed everything for us. You’ll hear how making (and learning from) mistakes made us better leaders. Find out why we don’t rush into a new policy over one complaint, and how listening (a lot) turns small changes into big wins. Managing people isn’t easy, but I’ll break down the shifts in my leadership style, from being the “because I said so” manager to someone who values input (and yes, sometimes needs a reminder to stay calm). Got a story to share or a question you'd like answered in a future episode? Email Brian at brian@mixingfamilyandbusiness.com.  Make sure to check out our website to learn more!

Ready to crush the family business game? Hear how Shirley, Tim, Tom, and Kim share the real stories behind running multiple businesses across generations, from hayfields and grocery stores to fast-changing tech and POS systems. We dive into: • Childhood lessons that shaped powerhouse work ethics 💪 • The wild evolution of learning, from handwritten ledgers to instant YouTube tutorials 📚 • How to survive (and thrive!) when change comes at you faster than ever • The best advice for younger business owners feeling overwhelmed (hint: just jump in—and don’t let worry steal your energy!) Tune in and get ready to level up your business…and maybe laugh at a vacuum cleaner chase story or two. See you next episode, keep mixing family, business, and a whole lot of grit! Got a story to share or a question you'd like answered in a future episode? Email Brian at brian@mixingfamilyandbusiness.com.  Make sure to check out our website to learn more!

What can YOU learn from your team? Join me, as I sit down with Joe Moy, Kim, and Shirley to explore the real-life wisdom that employees of all ages bring to the workplace. We’re sharing stories of energy boosts, from morning routines to heavy metal, sunshine to quality time and talking about those surprising “aha” moments when younger team members introduced us to game-changing ideas like using cell phones and YouTube to solve problems in seconds. Ready to unlock the power of listening and tap into the innovations happening right inside your own team? Discover how simple conversations can spark trust, culture, fun, and fresh ideas that make your business better.  Got a story to share or a question you'd like answered in a future episode? Email Brian at brian@mixingfamilyandbusiness.com.  Make sure to check out our website to learn more!

Ever wondered what truly happens behind the scenes when you mix family and business? In this episode, I sit down with Shirley and Tom to share the real-life moments that have shaped our journey across multiple businesses. From heartwarming stories about customer kindness, like someone snapping a pre-internet photo of a decorated cake so special it had to be displayed in the store, to the surprising ways people stepped up with trust and support during tough transitions, we get honest about the unpredictable rewards that keep us going. There's something powerful about those unexpected gestures, and they remind me why I love what we do. But it's not all butterflies and grocery store celebrations, running a family business means tackling challenges head-on, from learning to manage stubborn personalities to bouncing back after failed ventures. In this episode, I open up about the lessons I've learned: why taking breaks is non-negotiable, how a little stubborn positivity goes a long way, and what it really means to lead (hint: it’s not just telling people what to do).  Got a story to share or a question you'd like answered in a future episode? Email Brian at brian@mixingfamilyandbusiness.com.  Make sure to check out our website to learn more!

In this episode of Mixing Family and Business, I sit down with Tom, Shirley, and Kim to dig into the real heart of what it takes to run multiple businesses as a family. We share the lessons we learned watching our parents work, whether it was growing up on the farm, keeping the grocery store afloat, or pitching in at Dairy Queen. Along the way, we talk about how those early days instilled a powerful work ethic and shaped our approach to raising the next generation. You’ll hear honest stories about chores, responsibilities, and the everyday realities that built our values from the ground up. I also get practical with advice for families who want to involve their kids in the business, including how to set clear expectations, pay fairly, and lay the groundwork for lifelong financial habits. We even discuss a strategy I wish I’d known sooner: paying your kids through the business in ways that truly benefit them for years to come! If you’re an entrepreneur or a parent looking to mix business with family, this episode offers stories, actionable tips, and ways to create lasting success, for both your business and your children. Tune in now and let’s keep building together! Got a story to share or a question you'd like answered in a future episode? Email Brian at brian@mixingfamilyandbusiness.com.  Make sure to check out our website to learn more!

Ever wonder if I really did walk uphill both ways to school? Or how my family managed to squeeze a dozen kids into a single car before anyone even thought about seatbelts? Join me, Brian Hahn, on this week’s episode of Mixing Family and Business, as we unwrap stories from our childhoods and the real-world advice that’s shaped our journey running multiple businesses together. Tune in as I swap memories with Shirley and Kim about getting to school in the 1940s and ’50s—bicycles, jam-packed school buses, and those legendary farm-country carpools. Spoiler alert: Iowa really is that flat! Then, we turn from nostalgia to the power of advice, what’s worth acting on, what you can leave behind, and the honest truth about the lessons that stuck (including the ones I ignored at my own risk). I’ll share the best business wisdom I ever got, the worst, and how I’ve learned to filter advice from trusted friends, family, and experts alike. Hit play and take the ride with us! Whether you’re running a family business, starting a new venture, or just curious about how life lessons shape leadership, you’ll find something here for you. Got a story to share or a question you'd like answered in a future episode? Email Brian at brian@mixingfamilyandbusiness.com.  Make sure to check out our website to learn more!

Ever wish you could go back and give your younger self some straight-shooting business advice? We get brutally honest about what we’d do differently, from investing smarter to making sure we actually love the businesses we’re in. Hear firsthand why doing your research, working in the industry before going all-in, and writing a no-nonsense business plan changes everything. No more jumping in blind, learn how careful groundwork sets you up for long-term success. Thinking about investing in a franchise, expanding, or just figuring out what equipment is worth every penny? I walk you through our very real decisions, share the wins, the “uh-ohs,” and the times when we just had to trust our gut. We talk through the rewards and the headaches. How sometimes even after all your prep, sleepless nights happen, and surprises (like parking lot sinkholes!) can shake things up. Spoiler: you CAN make it through. Whether you’re running a side gig or wrangling seven locations, my goal is to help you make confident decisions with your business, your money, and your family. Got a story to share or a question you'd like answered in a future episode? Email Brian at brian@mixingfamilyandbusiness.com.  Make sure to check out our website to learn more!

Mixing family and business isn’t for the faint of heart but you don’t have to do it alone! Join us on this week’s episode of the Mixing Family and Business Podcast where you'll hear firsthand stories about the toughest business conversations we’ve ever had, from the heartbreak of closing stores to the breakthrough moments that unlocked new growth and why honest, proactive communication is at the center of it all. Learn the art of “borrowing” (and sometimes avoiding) ideas from competitors! We share our favorite examples of learning from others in the industry — and even how a single clever trick (like cutting through a brick counter for table service!) can change your business forever. Discover why you should welcome competition, constantly keep your eyes open for inspiration outside your field, and never stop tweaking and improving — even if that means letting go of old habits or clearing out inventory that just won’t move. Got a story to share or a question you'd like answered in a future episode? Email Brian at brian@mixingfamilyandbusiness.com.  Make sure to check out our website to learn more!

Ever wondered how your business could reshape your family forever? Join me on this episode of the Mixing Family and Business Podcast, as I sit down with Kim, Shirley, and Tom to unpack the real impact of building and running multiple businesses with your family alongside you. You’ll hear our honest stories—when the “ownership moment” really hit, how a cabin, boat, or even a move changed our perspective, and why sometimes the biggest changes take years to feel. From cash drawers and personal checks to modern credit cards and digital payments, we share how money handling in business evolved across the decades—and why today, we’re all #TeamCreditCard. Whether you’ve already gone digital or are thinking about ditching cash, this episode is packed with candid insights, lessons learned (sometimes the hard way), and tips to streamline and safeguard your family business. Got a story to share or a question you'd like answered in a future episode? Email Brian at brian@mixingfamilyandbusiness.com.  Make sure to check out our website to learn more!

Are you thinking about taking your business from one location to many? You won’t want to miss this episode! This week on the Making Family and Business Podcast, I sit down with Kim, Shirley, and Tom to unpack the real ups and downs of what it’s like to scale a family business. We dive deep into the moments that seemed “crazy” at the time—from buying our first car wash to jumping into Dairy Queens just two weeks apart—and why those risks paid off better than we ever expected. I share what it was really like to start my first video rental business back in the VHS days, while Kim, Shirley, and Tom open up about the joys and growing pains of managing more locations, letting go of hands-on control, and why building the right systems and accountability made all the difference. Along the way, we laugh about things like switching soda brands every four years and remember the lessons learned from a few ventures that didn’t go so well. If you’ve ever wondered when it’s right to expand, how to make sure you don’t lose track of what matters, or just want real talk about family, teamwork, mistakes, and what it takes to succeed, this episode has it all. Tune in for advice I wish I had when we started, and stay for the stories that made us who we are. Got a story to share or a question you'd like answered in a future episode? Email Brian at brian@mixingfamilyandbusiness.com.  Make sure to check out our website to learn more!

In this I dive deep into what it’s really like to run multiple businesses alongside family—and not just any family, but one that’s weathered the storms together for over 62 years! I sit down with Tom, Shirley, and Kim to uncover the biggest challenges they’ve ever faced as a couple in business, including stories of setbacks that almost cost them everything and how sticking together (and staying honest) got them through. We also explore how listening to customer feedback—both the tough critiques and the glowing celebration alerts—has helped us grow, improve our service, and keep our team motivated. If you’ve ever wondered how to turn adversity into lasting success or what simple practices create an unbeatable family business culture, you’ll find real-world wisdom packed into every story. I also share why embracing both positive and negative reviews has changed the course of our operations, and how celebrating every win keeps us inspired day to day. Tune in for honest insights, practical advice, and plenty of inspiration from a family that’s still thriving—and don’t forget, I’d love to hear your business journey!  Got a story to share or a question you'd like answered in a future episode? Email Brian at brian@mixingfamilyandbusiness.com.  Make sure to check out our website to learn more!