What do you do when you’re grateful for your last name… but you don’t want it to be the first thing people see?In this episode, Andrea talks with Brecken Glenn, a next-gen leader at Affinity Partners in Northern Colorado, about the messy middle of stepping into a family business while trying to build your own credibility, confidence, and identity. Brecken shares the defining moment she chose alignment over another credential, how she navigated the fear that people only saw her last name, and the surprisingly practical boundaries she and her dad put in place to protect both the business relationship and the personal one—like calling him “Ryan” in the office, and a rule that still makes her laugh: no questions on Sundays.If you’re a successor trying to lead well and stay whole, this conversation will feel like permission.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why Brecken thought she’d never join the family business—and what changedHow to make an honest ask for a role (without entitlement)What to do with the “am I only here because of my name?” spiralBoundary practices that actually work when you work with a parentWhy succession isn’t an event—it’s a roadmap you adapt as you goWhat it means to be the first woman in your family to step into the roleConnect with Brecken Glenn:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brecken-schaefer/Company: https://affinityrepartners.com/Connect with Andrea Carpenter and Your Next Gen Friend:Website: https://yournextgenfriend.com/Your Next Gen Friend on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yournextgenfriend/Your Next Gen Friend on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@yournextgenfriendAndrea on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreashaver/Subscribe to "Your Next Gen Friend" on your favorite podcast player:Spotify: https://yournextgenfriend.com/open-spotifyApple Podcasts: https://yournextgenfriend.com/apple-podcastPodcast theme music by Transistor.fm.Chapters in This Episode00:00 – Welcome + how Andrea and Brecken met (Bailey Program)03:12 – Brecken’s origin story: “I thought I’d never do real estate”04:20 – COVID pivot + starting on the brokerage side06:02 – The honest ask: “Will you make space for me?”07:52 – The defining moment: choosing herself (and walking away from themaster’s)11:22 – The last-name fear + trying to be “just Brecken” in the room16:44 – Working with dad: what it’s really like17:15 – Boundary #1: “Call me Ryan in the office”18:40 – Boundary #2: “No questions on Sundays”19:50 – Boundary #3: naming the lens (daughter vs. employee)22:22 – Holidays + not letting work dominate family space24:46 – Five years in: confidence, brand, and being seen for contribution27:25 – Leadership outside the business: ULI + community identity29:52 – Long runway +
What really happens when the business you’re buying belongs to your parents — and everyone has an opinion about what’s “fair”?Today’s episode dives into the emotional, operational, and relational reality of third-generation succession with Mitch Gambert, the new owner of Gambert Shirts, a legacy American shirtmaker in Newark, NJ.If you’re in the thick of a transition — managing expectations, navigating sibling fairness, or trying to separate family identity from business decisions — this episode will feel like a deep exhale.Mitch shares candidly about the years-long process of structuring his buyout, the emotional push-pull with his parents, and why succession feels like starting over… even after 20+ years in the business.In this episode, you’ll learn:How Mitch found his way back into the business after 9/11The moment he realized he wanted to buy the companyWhy sibling fairness became the hardest emotional layerThe importance of facilitated conversations and strong legal teamsWhat Mitch wishes more successors understood about “starting over”What he’s building now as the third-generation owner________________________________________Connect with Mitch Gambert:Website: https://gambertshirts.comEmail: mitchg@gambertshirts.comConnect with Andrea Carpenter and Your Next Gen Friend:Website: https://yournextgenfriend.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yournextgenfriend/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@yournextgenfriendAndrea on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreashaver/Subscribe to “Your Next Gen Friend” on your favorite podcast player:Spotify: https://yournextgenfriend.com/open-spotifyApple Podcasts: https://yournextgenfriend.com/apple-podcastPodcast theme music by Transistor.fm.________________________________________Chapters in This Episode00:00 – Episode open + host intro01:00 – Mitch joins the conversation02:15 – Growing up in the factory & the multigenerational origin story05:20 – The journey back after 9/11: choosing the family business08:35 – When the idea of buying the company actually began10:15 – Navigating sibling equity, fairness, and future upside12:30 – The emotional push-pull with parents during negotiations15:40 – Why facilitated conversations mattered18:45 – “Starting over” at 52 and the realities of third-generation transition22:48 – The hardest part: separating emotion from business25:50 – What went well and what Mitch would recommend to others28:10 – What’s next for Gambert Shirts31:00 – Reflection Round: Andrea’s three signature questions33:40 – Close + outro
Ever felt like you’re wearing someone else’s leadership suit? In family business, it’s easy to inherit roles, patterns, and assumptions that don’t fit. In this solo episode, Andrea breaks down the IMAP assessment—a practical framework to name your natural wiring so you can lead with clarity (not copycat energy).You’ll learn how motivated roles map to a project’s lifecycle (Idea → Prototype → Develop → Refine → Maximize), why operating outside your role drains energy, and how temperament and impact style shape the way you show up. What You’ll Hear in This EpisodeThe 5 motivated roles and how to find yours across a project’s lifecycleWhy “not my role” ≠ weakness—and how role-misalignment mimics burnoutAndrea’s wiring (Refiner/Maximizer, Internal Futurist, Feeler-Planner, Analyst) and how it shows up in client workPractical scripts for teammates with different temperaments (planner vs. adapter, internal vs. social)How successors can design roles that fit them—not just the previous leaderInvite: Fall IMAP cohort for successors who want to apply this in communityConnect with Andrea Carpenter and Your Next Gen Friend: Website: https://yournextgenfriend.com/ Your Next Gen Friend on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yournextgenfriend/ Your Next Gen Friend on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@yournextgenfriend Andrea on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreashaver/ Subscribe to "Your Next Gen Friend" on your favorite podcast player: Spotify: https://yournextgenfriend.com/open-spotify Apple Podcasts: https://yournextgenfriend.com/apple-podcast Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm.
What does clarity really look like in a family business?In this episode, Andrea talks with third-generation leader Adam Hatcher, who shares how a simple letter from his father set the standard for joining the family firm—and why that decision changed everything. Together they unpack the complex mix of love, loyalty, and leadership that defines multi-generational companies and the systems that help them thrive.If you’ve ever wondered how to enter your family business without losing yourself in it, this conversation will feel like a mirror.What You’ll Hear in This Episode:The five criteria Adam’s father required before any child could join the businessWhy clarity and systems protect relationships as much as profitsHow to avoid “drifting into” the family company by defaultThe difference between being family-fit and role-fitWhat happens when unconditional love meets conditional business realitiesThe conversation that aligned ambition, faith, and growth at $200 million in revenueConnect with Adam Hatcher:Website: https://21clear.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamhatcher/ Adam’s Newsletter: https://21clear.substack.com/ Connect with Andrea Carpenter and Your Next Gen Friend:Website: https://yournextgenfriend.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/yournextgenfriend/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@yournextgenfriendLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreashaver/Subscribe to Your Next Gen Friend on your favorite podcast player:Spotify: https://yournextgenfriend.com/open-spotifyApple Podcasts: https://yournextgenfriend.com/apple-podcastPodcast theme music by Transistor.fm.
What happens when successors finally have a system that helps them lead with clarity instead of chaos?Andrea sits down with Adam Hill and Jacqueline Jensen to explore how EOS (theEntrepreneurial Operating System) changed their leadership—and their companies.You’ll hear their origin stories in family business, what EOS made possible, and their favoritetools (V/TO, Issues Solving Track, Scorecard). Together they sketch a people-first picture of EOS: structure that actually liberates successors to lead with confidence, communicate honestly, and build healthy teams.What You’ll Hear in This Episode:Adam’s turnaround story: from near insolvency to aligned, profitable growth on EOS.Jacqueline’s shift from 80-hour weeks to a thriving, people-first culture through self-implementation.Why structure → freedom: EOS as bumpers that keep vision and values on track.Favorite tools that changed their leadership (V/TO, IDS/Issues Solving Track, Scorecard).How EOS separates relationships from roles so families can lead—and love—better.Connect with Adam Hill:Email: adam.hill@eosworldwide.comConnect with Jacqueline Jensen:Email: jacqueline.jensen@eosworldwide.comConnect with Andrea Carpenter and Your Next Gen Friend:Website: https://yournextgenfriend.com/Your Next Gen Friend on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yournextgenfriend/Your Next Gen Friend on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@yournextgenfriendAndrea on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreashaver/Subscribe to “Your Next Gen Friend” on your favorite podcast player:Spotify: https://yournextgenfriend.com/open-spotifyApple Podcasts: https://yournextgenfriend.com/apple-podcastPodcast theme music by Transistor.fm.
What does it mean to be Generation 1.5—old enough to remember the drywall dust, young enough to build the next playbook?At just 20 years old, JR runs leasing at Victory Real Estate Group, sits at city council meetings for development projects, and co-founded NextGenX—a peer group for successors who know legacy is about people, not just money. He also launched Retail Equity, introducing capital raising to a business his father built without outside capital.This episode dives into succession in motion, the courage to pitch innovation to the founder, and why “relational, not transactional” might be the most important mindset for the next generation.You’ll hear:JR’s father’s rags-to-riches story and why it fuels his work ethic.Why weekends on job sites shaped JR’s identity as Generation 1.5.The early succession moves at Victory: bringing in a CFO and COO.How JR pitched capital raising to his dad—and why it stuck.Why curated peer groups are the future of successor learning.Connect with Jahan “JR” Ramji: Victory Real Estate Group: victoryrealestategroup.comNextGenX: thenextgenx.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jahanramjiFor Victory Group & Retail Equity inquiries, I can be reached at jr@vg-re.comFor NextGenX inquiries, I can be reached at jr@thenextgenx.comConnect with Andrea Carpenter and Your Next Gen Friend: Website: https://yournextgenfriend.com/ Your Next Gen Friend on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yournextgenfriend/ Your Next Gen Friend on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@yournextgenfriend Andrea on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreashaver/ Subscribe to "Your Next Gen Friend" on your favorite podcast player: Spotify: https://yournextgenfriend.com/open-spotify Apple Podcasts: https://yournextgenfriend.com/apple-podcast Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm.
Ever felt like the transition timeline is moving impossibly slow—while your career clock isticking fast?AJ Treleven (EVP, Sprague Pest Solutions) walks us through the governance backbone of a century-old family enterprise: outside directors to buffer family from operations, a two-meeting cadence that separates fiduciary work from family dynamics, and a long-view philosophy that treats roles as stewarded “seats,” not permanent thrones. We dig into next-gen readiness, why “happiness is dictated by expectation,” and the underrated power of choosing to be in the business—rather than feeling forced.You’ll learn:How family governance (annual family meetings + owner education) pairs with business governance (outside board, comp committee) to reduce friction. The two-meeting system: unit holder (fiduciary) vs. family meeting (relationships/learning).Why stewardship > ownership: leave the seat better, and measure leaders by the people they promote.The “nose in, fingers out” model for elder generations (grandparent the business).The mindset shift: choose to be there; align expectations or expect resentment.Personal growth math: if the business grows 10%, grow yourself 11%.Connect with AJ Treleven: Sprague Pest Solutions — https://www.spraguepest.com/Pacific Family Business Institute — https://www.pacificfamilybusiness.com/Connect with Andrea Carpenter and Your NextGen Friend: Website: https://yournextgenfriend.com/ Your Next Gen Friend on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yournextgenfriend/ Your Next Gen Friend on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@yournextgenfriend Andrea on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreashaver/ Subscribe to "Your Next Gen Friend" on your favorite podcast player: Spotify: https://yournextgenfriend.com/open-spotify Apple Podcasts: https://yournextgenfriend.com/apple-podcast Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm.
This solo episode is a little different. Andrea shares her personal answers to the three reflective questions she now asks every guest on the podcast—designed to move us through past, present, and future.✨ Questions explored in this episode:What have I chosen not to inherit?What’s a part of my story that I’m learning to honor right now?In one word, what am I the first of in my family?Andrea opens up about letting go of the belief that success requires sacrificing family time, redefining what it means to be entrepreneurial, and stepping into the vulnerable role of being the “first” to go public about family, identity, and legacy.If you’re a next gen navigating the tension of privilege, pressure, and possibility—this episode is for you.👉 Leave a review, share this episode with a friend, and join Andrea on LinkedIn or Instagram (@yournextgenfriend) to keep the conversation going.Connect with Andrea Carpenter and Your Next Gen Friend: Website: https://yournextgenfriend.com/ Your Next Gen Friend on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yournextgenfriend/Your Next Gen Friend on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@yournextgenfriendAndrea on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreashaver/ Subscribe to "Your Next Gen Friend" on your favorite podcast player: Spotify: https://yournextgenfriend.com/open-spotify Apple Podcasts: https://yournextgenfriend.com/apple-podcast Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm.
What if stepping into family business leadership meant putting on someone else’s suit every day—literally and figuratively?In this episode, Andrea sits down with sixth-generation CEO Anne Bauer, who shares how trying to lead like her dad left her feeling disconnected and creatively stuck. Anne opens up about the moment she realized she needed to stop copying and start leading authentically—and how that shift changed everything.We explore Anne’s Three Pillars of Legacy framework—clear communication, healthy boundaries, and energetic awareness—and how energy work can transform how we show up inside family systems. If you’ve ever felt the pressure to preserve legacy while losing yourself in the process, this one’s for you. What You’ll Hear in This Episode:Anne’s unexpected leap from “just helping out” to leading her family’s sixth-gen business What it feels like to lead in someone else’s shoes—and how to shed the “executive dude suit”Navigating sibling transitions across ranching, citrus, and aviation companies Her Three Pillars of Legacy—and why energy work matters more than you thinkThe difference between being a steward and tying your identity to the businessHow to lead while raising the next generation—and why you don’t have to inherit what doesn’t serve youConnect with Anne Bauer:Website: https://thelegacyevolution.com/Free resources: Quarterly magazine, blog, podcast, and more. Subscribe to “Your Next Gen Friend” on your favorite podcast player:Spotify: https://yournextgenfriend.com/open-spotifyApple Podcasts: https://yournextgenfriend.com/apple-podcastCheck out "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux"Spotify: https://yournextgenfriend.com/open-spotifyApple Podcasts: https://yournextgenfriend.com/apple-podcast Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm. Chapters in this Episode 00:00 Introduction: Meet Anne Bauer, Sixth-Generation CEO01:27 Anne’s Unexpected Path into Family Business06:34 The Difficult Conversations That Made Transition Possible08:52 Wearing the “Little Executive Dude Suit” - The Authenticity Challenge13:42 What Support Could Have Changed Everything15:01 Sibling Dynamics and Multiple Business Transitions19:18 From Coaching Herself to Helping Other Family Businesses24:29 The Three Pillars of Legacy Framework28:58 Getting Started with Energetic Awareness35:50 Rapid Fire: What Haven’t You Inherited?38:12 Learning to Honor Your Story While Leading39:33 Being the First: Building Bridges Between Past and Future
What if I told you that business transition isn't just about changing ownership—it's about six fundamental transformations that happen to both the successor and the current owner? In this solo episode, Andrea introduces the Six Metamorphoses of Business Transition, a framework that helps families and business teams understand the psychological and practical changes everyone experiences during leadership transitions. From the apprentice-to-owner role shift that successors navigate to the identity changes owners face as they step back from their life's work, Andrea walks through each transformation with real examples from her own succession journey at The Transition Strategists. Whether you're a successor feeling the weight of growing responsibility or an owner struggling with when and how to let go, this episode will help you understand what's normal, what's challenging, and why having conversations about these changes is essential for a successful transition. Key topics covered: The six metamorphoses: role, vision, power, relationships, purpose, and legacy How successors move from apprentice to owner while managing anxiety and proving themselves Why owners struggle with staying relevant while giving successors space to grow The dance between respecting hierarchy and stepping into leadership How vision conflicts create tension between honoring the past and building the future Why relationships inside and outside the business shift for both parties The identity and purpose changes that affect owners and successors differently Key takeaways: Transition involves fundamental changes for both successors and owners—expect this Different people need to move at different paces through these metamorphoses The sooner you start conversations about what everyone wants and needs, the better Understanding these changes helps normalize the challenges you're experiencing Designing the future together prevents assumptions and misalignment Connect with Andrea Carpenter and Your Next Gen Friend: Website: https://yournextgenfriend.com/ Your Next Gen Friend on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yournextgenfriend/ Your Next Gen Friend on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@yournextgenfriend Andrea on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreashaver/ Subscribe to "Your Next Gen Friend" on your favorite podcast player: Spotify: https://yournextgenfriend.com/open-spotify Apple Podcasts: https://yournextgenfriend.com/apple-podcast Podcast theme music by Transistor.fmChapters in this episode: 00:00 Introduction: The Six Metamorphoses Framework 00:38 Metamorphosis #1: Role (Apprentice to Owner, Relevant to Beyond) 02:36 Metamorphosis #2: Vision (New Ideas vs. Proven Success) 03:57 Metamorphosis #3: Power (Authority, Control, and Letting Go) 05:39 Metamorphosis #4: Relationships (Networks, Dependencies, and Relevance) 07:05 Metamorphosis #5: Purpose (From Job to Identity to What's Next) 08:45 Metamorphosis #6: Legacy (Honoring the Past, Building the Future) 10:12 Key Takeaways and Next Steps
What goes through your mind when someone asks you to be their successor? For Andrea, it wasn't immediate excitement—it was a flood of very real fears and questions.In this honest and relatable episode, Andrea takes you inside her thought process when Elizabeth first asked her to become the successor at The Transition Strategists. From meeting Elizabeth on what she thought was just a networking call to navigating the complex emotions of buying into someone else's life's work, Andrea shares the four major fears that almost every successor faces. Whether you're considering a family business succession, buying into a company as an employee, or exploring any leadership transition, Andrea's candid reflections will help you understand that feeling nervous doesn't mean you're not ready—it means you're taking it seriously.Key topics covered:The four major fears every successor faces: readiness, money/affordability, legacy pressure, and relationship dynamics How to use the Objectives Matrix to evaluate if succession aligns with your personal goalsWhy feeling nervous about succession is actually healthy, not a red flag The importance of having real conversations about assumptions and expectationsHow transition happens gradually through small steps, not all at onceKey takeaways:Succession fears are valid and shared by most successors—you're not aloneThe things left unsaid create the biggest problems in transitionTransition is a journey, not an event—it doesn't all have to happen at onceHard conversations about fears and expectations are essential for moving forwardConnect with Andrea Carpenter and Your Next Gen Friend:Website: https://yournextgenfriend.com/ Your Next Gen Friend on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yournextgenfriend/ Your Next Gen Friend on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@yournextgenfriendAndrea on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreashaver/Subscribe to "Your Next Gen Friend" on your favorite podcast player:Spotify: https://yournextgenfriend.com/open-spotifyApple Podcasts: https://yournextgenfriend.com/apple-podcastChapters in this episode:00:00 Setting the Stage: When Elizabeth Asked Me to Be Her Successor02:41 Using the Objectives Matrix to Evaluate the Opportunity03:24 Fear #1: Am I Even Ready for This?04:18 Fear #2: Money and Affordability Concerns05:44 Fear #3: The Weight of Legacy Pressure06:42 Fear #4: Relationships and Team Dynamics07:39 Why Being Nervous Isn't a Red Flag09:14 Transition as a Journey, Not an EventPodcast theme music by Transistor.fm.
Andrea tackles one of the most loaded phrases in family business: "You're next." Whether it's taking over the family business, stepping into leadership alongside siblings, or inheriting family wealth responsibilities, being told you're next rarely comes with the clarity successors actually need. In this vulnerable and practical episode, Andrea shares her own experience of first hearing about her role in her family's estate planning and how it felt both like a compliment and an overwhelming responsibility. She explores why "being next" often feels heavy and unclear, and what successors can do to take control of their own transition journey. Key topics covered: Why "you're next" rarely comes with clarity or a roadmap Debunking succession myths and defining what you actually want The difference between inheriting a business and inheriting a leadership manual How to initiate transition conversations without seeming entitled Key takeaways: Authenticity in leadership means being yourself, not a clone of who came before Successors can drive conversations about transition timelines and roadmaps You don't need permission to start planning your future Connect with Andrea Carpenter and Your Next Gen Friend: Website: https://yournextgenfriend.com/ Your Next Gen Friend on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yournextgenfriend/ Your Next Gen Friend on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@yournextgenfriend Andrea on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreashaver/ Subscribe to "Your Next Gen Friend" on your favorite podcast player: Spotify: https://yournextgenfriend.com/open-spotify Apple Podcasts: https://yournextgenfriend.com/apple-podcast Chapters: 00:00 Understanding the 'You're Next' Concept 04:45 Defining Personal Goals and Values 09:21 Taking Charge of Your FuturePodcast theme music by Transistor.fm
In this candid conversation, Andrea and Suzy explore the complex emotions that come with inheriting family wealth. Suzy, a third-generation wealth inheritor, shares her journey from feeling shame about "unearned" money to becoming empowered to take control of her financial future. Key Topics: Wrestling with the psychology of inherited wealth and finding your authentic relationship with money How marriage dynamics change when one partner has family wealth Taking ownership of financial decisions and realizing you can change inherited structures Balancing family legacy with personal values and goals Special Focus: Suzy discusses her new children's book project designed to help parents start age-appropriate money conversations with their kids, inspired by her 6-year-old son's reaction to traditional financial education. Perfect for next-generation wealth holders, family business members, and parents raising children in wealthy families. Chapters in this episode: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 02:25 Suzy's Third-Generation Inheritance Story 07:03 Wrestling with "Given, Not Earned" Feelings 12:47 Finding Your Authentic Relationship with Money 19:15 Marriage, Boundaries, and Financial Independence 25:41 Navigating Wealth in Friendships and Social Settings 29:57 Taking Control: From Inherited Advisors to Personal Stewardship 32:02 The Power to Change What Doesn't Fit Your Life 38:04 Children's Books: Teaching Money Values Early 41:12 Connecting with Suzy and Final Thoughts Connect with Suzy Riedman: Website: https://familywealthdynamics.com Join the Waitlist for Suzy’s Books: https://familywealthdynamics.com/waitlist Email: suzy@familywealthdynamics.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzanne-riedman/ Connect with Andrea Carpenter and Your Next Gen Friend: Website: https://yournextgenfriend.com/ Your Next Gen Friend on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yournextgenfriend/ Your Next Gen Friend on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@yournextgenfriend Andrea on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreashaver/ Subscribe to "Your Next Gen Friend" on your favorite podcast player: Spotify: https://yournextgenfriend.com/open-spotify Apple Podcasts: https://yournextgenfriend.com/apple-podcast Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm.
After launching with a powerful three-part series on sibling dynamics, Andrea takes listeners behind the scenes of her own story in this deeply personal episode. Most importantly, Andrea explains why Your Next Gen Friend exists - to create community for successors who often feel isolated while navigating guilt, imposter syndrome, and the challenge of building their own legacy while honoring what came before. The episode concludes with an invitation for listeners to join Andrea in building a supportive community where successors can share their stories, challenges, and victories without judgment. Key topics covered: Growing up with entrepreneurial parents and processing family wealth awareness Career evolution from advertising to becoming Elizabeth's successor at The Transition Strategists The emotional complexity of being a successor and creating community for next-gen leaders Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Your Next Gen Friend 02:24 Growing Up in Small Town Colorado 04:42 High School: Design, Band, and Entrepreneurship 07:03 First Awareness of Family Wealth 09:21 College, Career, and the Pivotal Question 11:31 Meeting Elizabeth and the Successor Conversation 13:52 Navigating Business Transition and Motherhood 16:13 Why Every Successor's Experience is Unique 18:33 Creating Community for Next Gen Leaders Connect with Andrea Carpenter and Your Next Gen Friend: Website: https://yournextgenfriend.com/ Your Next Gen Friend on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yournextgenfriend/ Your Next Gen Friend on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@yournextgenfriend Andrea on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreashaver/ Subscribe to "Your Next Gen Friend" on your favorite podcast player: Spotify: https://yournextgenfriend.com/open-spotify Apple Podcasts: https://yournextgenfriend.com/apple-podcast Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm.
This is the powerful conclusion to the three-part series on sibling dynamics in family businesses. The conversation moves beyond day-to-day challenges to explore how the current generation can become "great ancestors" who build lasting trust, redefine success, and create positive legacies for future generations. The episode offers profound insights on cultivating trust, establishing clear communication protocols, and understanding that family business is both a privilege and a responsibility. Show Notes In this inspiring finale to the sibling dynamics series, Andrea Carpenter, Shannon, Andrew, and Mark shift from problem-solving to legacy-building. The conversation opens with Shannon's vulnerable admission that she might not have relationships with some siblings if not for their shared family business - a raw truth that normalizes the complexity of family relationships while affirming that healthy businesses can still thrive. Mark emphasizes a fundamental truth: "The work isn't really worth the family relationship being lost. It's just not." This sets the tone for a discussion about priorities, boundaries, and the courage to separate family time from business time. Andrew shares his evolution from trying to maintain rigid boundaries to accepting that family and business naturally intersect, requiring maturity and clear communication rather than artificial separation. The episode's centerpiece is Andrew's powerful insight about being a "great ancestor" rather than just a good descendant. He challenges listeners to think beyond preserving what they inherited to actively building something worthy of future generations' admiration. Shannon anchors this vision in practical terms through her framework for cultivating trust: belief, care, consistency, and respect. Key topics covered include: Normalizing complex sibling relationships in family business The courage to set boundaries between family and business time Understanding that founders also seek approval from the next generation Using "hat switching" to create clarity in different roles The three pillars of successful family business leadership: understanding your why, seeing others' perspectives, and embracing conflict Establishing rules based on individual strengths from an early age Creating conflict resolution plans before emotions run high Why family business is a privilege, not a right The four elements of trust: belief, care, consistency, respect Moving from being good descendants to great ancestors Healing sibling relationships that may have suffered during the pursuit of parental approval The episode concludes with a rally cry for next-generation leaders to support each other, recognizing that the businesses and families they steward represent the future of communities and the world itself. Chapters in this episode: 00:00 Navigating Sibling Dynamics in Family Business 01:07 The Importance of Boundaries and Relationships 03:49 Understanding Perspectives and Empathy 09:08 Clarity and Communication in Family Roles 14:39 Establishing Rules and Conflict Resolution 18:51 The Role of Patience and Legacy 24:31 Cultivating a Culture of Trust 29:01 Final Thoughts on Family Business Dynamics Connect with Andrea Carpenter and Your Next Gen Friend:Website: https://yournextgenfriend.com/Your Next Gen Friend on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yournextgenfriend/Your Next Gen Friend on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@yournextgenfriendAndrea on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreashaver/Subscribe to...
This is the second episode of a three-part series on sibling dynamics in family businesses. The conversation dives deeper into the complexities of family roles, the importance of communication (even poor communication), and how vulnerability and empathy become essential leadership tools when working with siblings. The episode explores the tension between family relationships and business responsibilities, revealing how the skills needed for Gen 1 success may be completely different from what Gen 2 requires. Show Notes In this revealing second episode of the sibling dynamics series, Andrea Carpenter continues her conversation with Shannon, Andrew, and Mark as they explore the messier, more vulnerable aspects of working with family. The discussion moves beyond role assignment into the emotional intelligence required to navigate complex family-business relationships. Shannon Schottler opens up about the sudden loss of her father and how their family lacked a crisis plan, leading to important reflections on how Gen 2 leadership requires different skills than Gen 1 - specifically collaboration and over-communication rather than the "charging like a bull" approach that built their farming operation. Andrew Salmon shares profound insights about empathy, describing his relationship with his brother as an "accordion" that stretches and contracts but ultimately creates harmony when both parties are vulnerable and give each other grace. Mark Mendes discusses the importance of teaching his children that "it's okay to fail" and how he's intentionally creating a different legacy than his father - one focused on preparing the next generation to "take the ball and run with it to higher levels." The conversation also tackles the impossible task of separating family and business relationships, with Andrew's honest admission: "How do you separate Shannon your sister from Shannon your boss? It's just not going to happen." Key topics covered include: The difference between skills needed for Gen 1 vs Gen 2 success Why poor communication is better than no communication How family birth order and age gaps affect business dynamics The role of empathy and vulnerability in family business leadership Teaching the next generation to embrace failure as part of growth Creating boundaries between family time and business discussions How to be a "broker of agreements" rather than a peacemaker The importance of giving family members grace and space to grow Why everyone in family business is "chasing the same approval" The episode emphasizes that while family business relationships are inherently messy and complex, the key is moving from no communication to poor communication to better communication, all while building capacity to sit in discomfort as everyone levels up their skills. Chapters in this episode: 00:00 The Importance of Legacy and Intentional Planning 01:36 Understanding Individual Roles and Family Dynamics 05:03 Empathy and Vulnerability in Leadership 10:13 The Impact of Birth Order on Business Roles 14:53 Communication Strategies for Family Businesses 19:50 Balancing Family and Business Relationships Connect with Andrea Carpenter and Your Next Gen Friend:Website: https://yournextgenfriend.com/Your Next Gen Friend on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yournextgenfriend/Your Next Gen Friend on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@yournextgenfriendAndrea on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreashaver/Subscribe to "Your Next Gen Friend" on your favorite podcast player:Spotify:...
This is the first episode of a three-part series on sibling dynamics in family businesses, featuring three thoughtful leaders with vastly different experiences - from 12 siblings in a farming operation to passing a business to the next generation of siblings. Andrea Carpenter hosts an honest conversation about the good stuff, hard stuff, and unexpected challenges of growing, leading, and staying in relationship with siblings in family business.Show NotesIn this candid first episode of a three-part series, Andrea Carpenter sits down with three family business leaders to explore the real dynamics of working with siblings. From Shannon's experience as one of 12 kids in a farming operation, to Andrew's intentional succession planning approach, to Mark's unique situation of having a brother the same age as his eldest son, this conversation covers the full spectrum of sibling relationships in business. Shannon Schottler represents Gen 2 in a large farming operation built from nothing to 4,000 acres, navigating the complexities of being "one of the chosen ones" among 12 siblings. Andrew Salmon, Gen 3 at Salmon Health Retirement, shares how he and his brother created clear paths for succession while maintaining family harmony. Mark Mendes discusses preparing his two sons for leadership while managing the interesting dynamic of his younger brother being part of the next generation.Key topics covered include:How personal growth intersects with role assignment in family businessThe myth that family business is "handed down" and the real pressures involvedNavigating leadership transitions during times of crisis and uncertaintyThe importance of communication and collaboration skills for next-generation leaders Preparing children for business roles while maintaining family relationshipsThe tension between being "chosen ones" and maintaining sibling harmonyWhy succession planning requires both intentional processes and family valuesThe episode emphasizes that while each family's journey is unique, the common thread is the importance of relationships, communication, and starting succession conversations early from a position of strength rather than necessity. Chapters in this episode: 00:00 Introduction to Sibling Dynamics in Family Businesses 07:00 Personal Growth and Role Assignment in Family Businesses 13:52 Navigating Leadership Transitions and Family Dynamics 20:00 Preparing the Next Generation for Business Roles 25:55 Looking Ahead: The Future of Family Businesses Connect with Andrea Carpenter and Your Next Gen Friend:Website: https://yournextgenfriend.com/Your Next Gen Friend on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yournextgenfriend/Your Next Gen Friend on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@yournextgenfriendAndrea on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreashaver/Subscribe to "Your Next Gen Friend" on your favorite podcast player:Spotify: https://yournextgenfriend.com/open-spotifyApple Podcasts: https://yournextgenfriend.com/apple-podcast Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm.
Hey friend, I'm Andrea Carpenter, and I get it — that feeling of being caught between what's been built and what's next for you. Your Next Gen Friend is where we have the honest conversations about family business succession that don't always happen out loud. Whether you're wondering if you even want this path or you do but don't feel ready, you're not alone. I've been navigating my own transition into leadership, and through working with rising leaders like you, I've learned that you don't need all the answers right now. You just need a friend who understands the journey. That's what we're doing here — figuring it out together, one conversation at a time.