Disruptive Successor Podcast

Ronald Stein is a professional engineer, energy literacy advocate, and the Pulitzer Prize-nominated co-author of Clean Energy Exploitations. With decades of experience designing and building refineries for major corporations like Bechtel and Fluor, Ron possesses a deep, nuanced understanding of the energy sector. Thirty years ago, he and his wife, June, founded PTS Advance, a staffing and workforce solutions firm specializing in complex industries like energy and life sciences. After successfully growing the company, they transitioned ownership to their two sons 15 years ago. Now, Ron dedicates his time to educating policymakers, business leaders, and the public, serving as a...

Jeff Ustin is the Vice President of Western Bagel, the first bagel shop in Los Angeles. He helps carry on his great-grandfather’s 75-year legacy while leading the brand’s national and international expansion. Under his leadership, Western Bagel has become a West Coast staple, blending New York tradition with LA innovation. Carrying on a rich 75-year legacy, Jeff is the great-grandson of David Ustin, a union bagel baker from New York City who founded Western Bagel in 1947. Jeff grew up immersed in the business, learning every aspect from sweeping floors at 3 AM with his father, Steve, to managing reta...

Jeff Ustin is the Vice President of Western Bagel, the first bagel shop in Los Angeles. He helps carry on his great-grandfather’s 75-year legacy while leading the brand’s national and international expansion. Under his leadership, Western Bagel has become a West Coast staple, blending New York tradition with LA innovation. Carrying on a rich 75-year legacy, Jeff is the great-grandson of David Ustin, a union bagel baker from New York City who founded Western Bagel in 1947. Jeff grew up immersed in the business, learning every aspect from sweeping floors at 3 AM with his father, Steve, to managing reta...

Adam Frederico grew up in Utah, surrounded by entrepreneurial family members, including his father, Russell Frederico, the founder of what is now Frederico Outdoor Living. A BYU graduate from the Marriott School, Adam spent 8 years in Chicago working in corporate America, startups, and consulting. He later pursued an MBA from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business. It was during this experience that Adam decided to buy the family business and grow within the green industry. Adam aims to expand upon the 40-year legacy his father started. The company has been named to Lawn and Landscape Magazine’s “Best...

Joe Olwig and Shaun Lee are the co-founders of 6 Levers – an organizational consulting firm known for their 6 Levers framework. They are also co-authors of  the best-selling book, "At the Heart of Work: Rethinking what it takes to build organizational health with the 6 Levers Framework."

Prior to co-founding 6 Levers, Joe served as the VP of Organizational Solutions at Mission Matters Group. He holds dual master’s degrees in business administration and education leadership from Saint Louis University.

Shaun previously served as COO of Haven for Hope, the largest homeless services campus in the U.S. He earne...

Andrew Morris, the founder of Sam’s Caribbean Marketplace, a business that has become a cultural landmark since its humble beginnings in 1993. Andrew’s journey is a true testament to perseverance, innovation, and the power of dreaming big.

In 1979, Andrew arrived in New York from Jamaica with just $50 and a vision for a better life. After building a career in publishing and earning an MBA from Columbia, he took a bold leap of faith—leaving a stable job to venture into an industry he knew nothing about. What started as a small family-run grocery store named in honor...

Ryan Chute is an award-winning creative strategist and the driving force behind Wizard of Ads. Specializing in helping small businesses transform into big brands, Ryan delivers divergent sales and marketing solutions that accelerate profitable growth without the typical friction. With a background in retail and automotive industries, Ryan has become a secret weapon for businesses aiming to punch above their weight and dominate their market. His unique approach focuses on reducing friction and creating value-driven customer experiences, making him a sought-after expert in strategic marketing.

SHOW SUMMARY 

In this episode of Disruptive Successor, host Jonathan G...

Dan Frosh is the director at the Merrill Center for Family Wealth. He works with enterprising families to navigate the complexities of wealth and family dynamics, aiming for multigenerational success. A trained attorney, Dan has previously served as a senior advisor at Cambridge Family Enterprise Group and writes and speaks internationally on family enterprises and family wealth. He is the co-author of an upcoming handbook for advisors on business families and family businesses.

SHOW SUMMARY 

In this episode of Disruptive Successor, host Jonathan Goldhill is joined by Dan Frosh, Director at the Merrill Center for F...

Dann Van Der Vliet is the John and Dyan Smith Executive Director of the Smith Family Business Initiative (SFBI) at Cornell University. Cornell has been named as one of the “25 best schools for family business” by Family Capital in 2015. As the founding director, Dan guided the launch and growth of one of the leading educational centers for family business. He designed and developed the Leaders in Family Enterprise course, and he also teaches executives and next-generation leaders through the Cornell’s external education and eCornell programs.

Under his tenure, the Smith Family Business Initiative has developed the Cornel...

Fletcher Wimbush is the CEO of three innovative firms in the Talent Acquisition space, with a decade of experience revolutionizing the hiring process. He has developed groundbreaking assessments and hiring systems that help leaders build high-performing teams through repeatable and consistent hiring practices. 

Fletcher’s approach has transformed hiring, reducing turnover, improving engagement with top talent, and allowing CEOs to focus on business growth, personal time, and successful exits. His work provides a pathway to a brighter future for companies and their leaders, breaking the cycle of hiring despair.

SHOW SUMMARY 

In this epis...

Ryan Malone is the Director of Maintenance at Malone’s Landscape Management, a company recognized twice on the INC. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies. Ryan works alongside his family to provide exceptional landscape maintenance services, focusing on company culture and helping others grow. Outside of work, he’s achieved personal milestones like summiting Mount Rainier multiple times, completing a full Ironman, and finishing a 100-mile ultramarathon. Ryan’s dedication to hard work, growth, and excellence is at the core of both his professional and personal life.

SHOW SUMMARY 

In this episode of Disruptive Successor, host Jonatha...

ABOUT THE GUEST

Scott Canon CEO of BigRentz, a leading procurement software company that connects over 6,000 rental companies and 14,000 rental yards across the U.S. With their extensive network, BigRentz can deliver equipment and services to 90% of job sites within 30 minutes, cutting down on transportation costs, which make up 40% of rental expenses.

Under their leadership, BigRentz has evolved from a start-up into a powerful platform that helps contractors streamline procurement. The construction industry, which has struggled with low productivity growth, faces significant inefficiencies, costing the economy over $177 billion each year. BigRentz’s upcoming software, LIFT, us...

Dylan Milroy is a trusted advisor and employee-focused business leader in the home services industry. As the founder, owner, and operator of Better Basements and Waterproofing, Dylan has mastered the art of driving lead flow and building a standout company culture that promotes success and employee retention. He is known for his belief in prioritizing employees over customers, which he argues leads to better service and customer satisfaction in the long run. Dylan's innovative approaches and dedication to best practices in the construction industry make him a thought leader in his field.

SHOW SUMMARY 

In t...

Charlie Leichtweis is the founder of Experts in How LLC, a business consultancy focused on family businesses and helping them create successful legacies. With over 40 years of experience, Charlie has served as a C-suite executive, advisor, and board member for numerous family-owned businesses. He is also the author of two books, 'The Power of Respect in Business' and 'The Power of Legacy,' which provide insights into leadership and the unique challenges of family businesses. His extensive experience makes him an expert in guiding family businesses towards sustainable success.

SHOW SUMMARY 

In this episode of t...

Christopher Morrison is the co-founder and CEO of TeamDynamics, a groundbreaking platform that redefines team collaboration by focusing on team dynamics rather than individual personalities. With a background at leading consulting firms like McKinsey and a successful track record in tech startups, Christopher brings a wealth of experience in organizational psychology and team performance. His innovative approach has helped companies like Meta, Splunk, and Hilton optimize their team effectiveness, making him a sought-after expert in the field.

SHOW SUMMARY 

In this episode of the Disruptive Successor podcast, Jonathan Goldhill is joined by Christopher Morrison, co-founder a...

Kelly Finnell is a leading expert in Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) with over 40 years of experience. As one of the nation’s premier ESOP consultants, Kelly has designed and executed numerous ESOPs and has shared his expertise at more than 300 conferences and meetings globally, including in London and Sydney.

In 2010, Kelly authored "The ESOP Coach: Using ESOPs in Ownership Succession Planning," the most comprehensive guide on ESOPs available today. He has also published numerous articles on the subject, further establishing his authority in ownership succession planning.

Kelly’s firm, Executive Financial Services, established in 1981 and...

Dr. Kimberly Wagner is a licensed psychologist and performance coach with over a decade of experience working with elite athletes and business professionals, including Major League Baseball players. She conducted a study on the mental skills and characteristics that enhance performance in Major League Baseball players, which led to the development of her online course, Believe It, Achieve It. Dr. Wagner is dedicated to helping individuals overcome mental blocks and cultivate a winning mindset for success in their careers.

SHOW SUMMARY 

In this episode of the Disruptive Successor podcast, host Jonathan Goldhill is joined by D...

Doug Baumoel is the founder of Continuity Family Business Consulting and a renowned expert in managing conflict within family enterprises. With over 25 years of experience, Doug has developed a unique systems approach to resolving deep-seated family disputes. He is the co-author of the influential book "Deconstructing Conflict: Understanding Family Business, Shared Wealth and Power," which he wrote with Blair Trippe. Doug's work focuses on addressing identity-based conflicts and historical impasses, providing families with the tools and strategies needed for long-term harmony and business success.

SHOW SUMMARY 

In this episode of the Disruptive Successor podcast, host J...

Known as “the coach for coaches”, Mark Scherer has had the pleasure of working with thousands of individuals, including executives, entrepreneurs, healthcare professionals, coaches, and leaders - enabling them to navigate the most challenging personal chapters of their lives. As a certified business mentor, Mark applies his many modalities to help businesses, groups, families, and individuals identify, clarify, align, and implement their highest visions. He has distilled his decades of experience into a unique framework called the Quantum Leap Technique, which transforms challenges into gains in a matter of minutes. Mark is a straight-shooting Texas farm boy who loves to s...

R. Adam Smith is a distinguished strategic advisor, financier, and deal maker with over two decades of experience in private company finance and family offices. As a LinkedIn Top Voice and seasoned board member of 10x companies, he brings extensive expertise in family business dynamics. He is the founder and host of Family Business Audiocast, the source of thought leadership for family business-related topics. With a background at Salomon Brothers and education from Columbia Business School, he has guided over fifty venture and private equity-backed companies, participating in transactions worth several billions of dollars.

SHOW SUMMARY 

Scott Snider is a recognized expert in family business dynamics and the CEO of Exit Planning Institute (EPI), where he leads efforts to educate advisors and business owners on succession planning and value acceleration strategies. With a background in finance and a passion for helping businesses navigate leadership transitions and maximize their value, Scott is dedicated to providing practical insights and methodologies through EPI's training programs and resources. His work, alongside industry leaders like Jonathan Goldhill, focuses on addressing the unique challenges of generational transitions, disruptive successors, and adapting businesses in response to challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, making...

Shelley Hoss, Chief Executive Officer at Orange County Community Foundation, brings over 38 years of leadership in philanthropic organizations to the discussion. She offers deep insights into the transformative role of community foundations in integrating philanthropy into business models. Shelley highlights how such integration not only enhances community engagement, reputation, and customer loyalty but also boosts employee satisfaction. She delves into practical strategies for engaging younger generations in philanthropy and shares the personal fulfillment that comes from making a meaningful impact.

Drew Hoeven, Chairman and Chief Investment Officer of Westport Properties, shares his family's inspiring journey of blending...

Andrew Hartman, is a seasoned professional with over two decades of experience in marketing tech firms and software startups. Specializing in time management and strategic prioritization, Andrew developed the Time Boss Model to help individuals achieve their goals without compromising their mental health. After experiencing burnout and significant stress early in their career, Andrew transformed their approach to work, learning how to manage their time effectively and reduce anxiety. This led to the creation of the Time Boss Model, a framework built from 15 years of experimentation and learning, designed to maintain a sustainable work pace while making substantial progress...

Nikki Rausch, founder of Sales Maven, is a renowned sales expert, author, and speaker specializing in neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) to enhance sales conversations and strategies. With over 25 years of experience in sales and sales training, Nikki helps entrepreneurs and business leaders improve their communication skills, build authentic relationships, and achieve higher sales success through her proven, rapport-building techniques. Her unique approach to sales blends psychology and practical tactics, empowering individuals to confidently and effectively close deals while maintaining genuine connections with their clients.

SHOW SUMMARY

In this episode of The Disruptive Successor Show, Jonathan Goldhill...

Steve Hasty is a dynamic second-generation family business owner and entrepreneur, currently serving as the president and owner of Hasty Awards, a leading company in the awards industry. With over 30 years of experience, Steve has significantly expanded the business, diversifying its product offerings and transforming it into a major player in the market. Beyond his primary business, he co-owns Swimming World, where his strategic leadership has enhanced the company's influence within the swimming community. Demonstrating his entrepreneurial versatility, Steve also holds a majority stake in Smarter Paw, an award-winning pet products company. His commitment to community development and passion...

Jon Bassford is a visionary entrepreneur and operations professional who thrives on creating and driving change. As the Founder and CEO of Lateral Solutions, an operations management company, our guest specializes in helping organizations achieve growth through streamlined and effective operations.

In the entrepreneurial and business world, "10X" is a popular buzzword. However, it's impossible to 10X your business if you're bogged down by daily operational details instead of focusing on growth and strategy. Our guest's expertise lies in transforming organizational operations to foster efficiency and effectiveness, paving the way for substantial growth and success.

...

Steven Wilkinson is a seasoned advisor with 35 years of experience in investing and company leadership, specializing in guiding owner managers of mid-market companies through transitions and growth phases. Based in Ireland, Steven brings a unique perspective rooted in his background working at the intersection of finance and entrepreneurship, particularly in Germany's Mittelstand sector. With a deep understanding of financials and various business models, Steven is known for his holistic approach to advising, prioritizing strategic visioning, financial integrity, and governance. His insights into the symbiotic relationship between ethical business practices and prosperity make him a sought-after mentor for entrepreneurs aiming...

Madeline Miller, a seasoned executive coach and former attorney, brings a unique blend of experience and insight to her work. With a career spanning across diverse sectors and continents, from corporate law to entertainment, including a role as a production attorney on the James Bond franchise, Madeline has honed her ability to navigate uncertainty and achieve milestone successes. Fueled by her own quest for purpose and fulfillment, she founded Coaching with Madeline to empower rising leaders, particularly Gen Z and millennial men and women, in aligning their career choices with their values, developing interpersonal skills, and combating burnout. Through...

Maryann G. Bell is a seasoned partner at Wingspan Legacy Partners, an esteemed family business advisory firm. With a wealth of experience garnered from her tenure at Goldman Sachs across New York, Boston, and London, coupled with her MBA from Harvard University, Maryann brings invaluable insights to the complexities of multi-generational family enterprises. As a philanthropic leader in Austin, Texas, and a governance authority chairing numerous boards, Maryann is dedicated to helping enterprising families navigate succession, governance, and legacy planning with clarity and strategic foresight.

SHOW SUMMARY

In this episode of The Disruptive Successor Show...

Franco Perez is an innovative entrepreneur and the driving force behind Franco Mobile Homes. Growing up in a family with unstable housing, Franco was determined to create affordable housing solutions in Silicon Valley and beyond. He discovered the potential of mobile home parks and has since built a successful business focused on helping families transition from renting to mobile home ownership. Franco's goal is to provide a stepping stone for families to achieve financial security and ultimately purchase their own homes.

SHOW SUMMARY

In this episode of The Disruptive Successor Show, Jonathan Goldhill interviews Franco...

Jennifer Lee is a highly experienced financial expert and the founder of Modern Wealth, a Sarasota-based firm specializing in guiding individuals through significant life transitions. With over three decades of industry experience, Jennifer's approach is deeply rooted in understanding her clients' values and aspirations, translating financial resources into meaningful life goals. She particularly focuses on empowering women through life changes such as divorce, inheritance, and retirement planning, bridging the emotional and financial aspects seamlessly. Central to her philosophy is the concept of the "family love letter," facilitating communication of values, wishes, and financial plans to loved ones. Jennifer's accessible...

Gina Cotner is the founder and CEO of Athena Executive Services, a pioneering firm that pairs virtual executive assistants with busy entrepreneurs and executives across the United States. With over 15 years of experience working remotely on national and international teams, Gina brings a wealth of knowledge in optimizing productivity and streamlining operations. She has a passion for empowering her team members and fostering a culture of innovation within her organization.

Dorian Zarbakhsh serves as the Operations Manager at Athena Executive Services, working closely with Gina in the process of succession planning and business development. As a member...

Jay Dixon is a dynamic entrepreneur and former athlete who has seamlessly transitioned his passion for sports into the world of business. With a background in football and a drive for success, Jay founded multiple successful companies and actively participated in numerous business transactions. His latest endeavor, SuccessCoach.com, stands as a testament to his commitment to helping athletes navigate the challenging transition from sports to entrepreneurship. Through his expertise and proven methodologies outlined in his book "After the Game," Jay empowers athletes to unlock their full potential in the business world, guiding them towards fulfilling and prosperous ventures...

Dan Whittaker, a seasoned CPA and entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience, stands at the intersection of financial expertise and family business insight. As the founder of Whitaker and Company, established in 1999, he has dedicated his career to helping family-owned and closely held businesses in the lower-middle market achieve financial success and build wealth. Growing up amidst entrepreneurial roots, Dan draws from personal experiences to guide clients in navigating the complexities of tax mitigation, financial reporting, and wealth creation. His strategic approach, deeply rooted in understanding diverse industries such as manufacturing, distribution, and high-tech enterprises, reflects a commitment to...

Justin White is the CEO of K&D Landscaping, a family business that he took over at the age of 25. Under his leadership, the company has experienced significant growth, expanding its revenues, profits, and enterprise value. Justin is also a coach and the founder of The JW Group, where he helps other entrepreneurs and business owners achieve their goals and find fulfillment in their work.

SHOW SUMMARY

In this episode of The Disruptive Successor Show, Jonathan Goldhill interviews Justin White, CEO of K&D Landscaping and founder of The JW Group. Justin shares his...

Join Jonathan Goldhill in a riveting episode of Disruptive Successor as he delves into the intricate world of mergers and acquisitions with seasoned expert Kevin Berson. Uncover the common misconceptions, challenges, and success stories behind selling businesses, whether you're a family-owned enterprise or a thriving IT managed service provider. Gain valuable insights and strategic advice to navigate the M&A process effectively.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

In this episode of the Disruptive Successor, Jonathan Goldhill and Les O'Hara delve into the essential elements of entrepreneurial success, focusing on mastering time management and leveraging automation tools for business growth. Les shares his journey as a serial entrepreneur and the pivotal role of financial education, marketing, and CRM systems in scaling businesses. Discover how prioritizing tasks and delegating effectively can unlock significant potential for business owners.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

In this episode of the Disruptive Successor, Jonathan Goldhill engages in a dynamic conversation with Cody Schneider, an entrepreneur and digital marketer, exploring the journey from traditional family businesses to disruptive digital marketing strategies. Cody shares his experiences transitioning from unsexy industries to creating AI tools for content marketing, highlighting the power of educational content and leveraging digital platforms for exponential growth. From revitalizing local businesses to scaling startups, listeners gain insights into navigating marketing evolution and maximizing impact in today's dynamic landscape.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

In this episode of the Disruptive Successor, Jonathan Goldhill  delves into the world of acquiring family businesses with Kevin Bibelhausen, Principal at Fruition Capital. Discover the secrets of acquiring stable operating businesses, the challenges faced, and the strategies to navigate the complex acquisition market. From overcoming obstacles to finding the right deals, this episode provides insights and inspiration for next-generation leaders looking to disrupt the status quo in family businesses.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

In this episode of the Disruptive Successor, Jonathan Goldhill explores the intersection of success, fulfillment, and spirituality with guests Steven D'Angelo, a technology executive turned consultant, and Father Arnold Rosney, a Catholic priest with extensive experience in pastoral care. Together, they delve into the essential components of a fulfilled life, the role of spirituality in success, and the dynamic interplay between personal and professional goals.

KEY TAKEAWAYS