Paul Hutchinson has dedicated his entire life to creating a world where every child can experience safety, freedom and hope. As an entrepreneur, philanthropist and anti-child trafficking advocate, Paul’s work is underpinned by helping victims to heal from their trauma so that they can go on and live as healthy, functional and emotionally rich adults. Paul's work extends beyond rescuing trafficked children to helping adults heal their inner child, ultimately liberating humanity from the cycle of abuse and trauma. He believes in the promotion of emotional healing and connection to foster a harmonious and emotionally safe environment for themselves and their families. In this episode, Paul discusses the importance of understanding the impact of generational patterns and emotional wounds on family businesses, and provides practical techniques to help you break free. Find more information about Paul and his work at liberating-humanity.com and liberatechildren.org. CONTENT WARNING: This episode contains descriptions of violence, including child abuse and child trafficking. Please listen with care.

Join Francesco Lombardo for this week's Safe Space as he speaks with Felicia Heng, founder and managing director of Wise Purpose, a boutique consulting firm specializing in family wealth advisory, leadership coaching, and next-generation succession. Felicia shares her diverse expertise in psychology, investments, and family governance, and sheds light on her work with families and the next generation, specifically focusing on the emotional aspects of inheritance and succession. The conversation delves into the profound impact of sudden deaths and accidents on succession planning, and addresses how narratives related to money and wealth play a crucial role in shaping the emotional journey of individuals involved in the succession process. Felicia’s advice to the Senior and NxtGen…unpack the emotional journey from practical aspects of succession, inheritance, and family business transitions, as clarity in separate narratives allows for better alignment; recognize that this is both an art and a science, seeking support from independent professionals or networks with codified knowledge; and start discussions earlier when everyone is healthier and less stressed, recognizing the importance of time in addressing complex matters, and embracing the proverb that the best time to act was 20 years ago, and the next best time is now. To contact Felicia Heng, reach out to her at felicia.wisepurpose@gmail.com If you would like to keep up to date with all our insights, latest research and stories, click to subscribe to our "Veritage Insights Newsletter." (https://bit.ly/3JOd7Qq)

Join Francesco Lombardo for this week's Safe Space as he speaks with Julie Charlestein, a fourth-generation President and CEO with Premier Dental. Julie shares the inspiring journey of the business, which started with her grandfather, Julius Charlestein, who was a dental instrument sharpener and eventually evolved into a global leader in developing and manufacturing innovative dental consumables. Julie and Francesco discuss the importance of having governance structures and a board of directors in place to ensure the business's continuity and success. They highlight the value of open communication and the concept of a "safe space" within family businesses, which is vital for addressing challenges and fostering growth. Julie’s one piece of advice to the Senior and NxtGen…there has to be a mutual level of respect and sometimes that's a challenge. Under everything, there needs to be a reciprocal respect. Irrespective of the others' views. If you would like to keep up to date with all our insights, latest research and stories, click to subscribe to our "Veritage Insights Newsletter." (https://bit.ly/3JOd7Qq)

On this week's episode of Safe Space, Francesco Lombardo is joined by Chris Larson, a fourth-generation shareholder of a 107-year-old family-owned and operated business, IDEAL INDUSTRIES. In this episode, Franco and Chris discuss the emotional side of transitioning family businesses. Chris emphasizes the importance of addressing the emotional aspects of letting go of control and passing it on to the next generation, not just the intellectual aspects. Highlighting how emotional preparation is crucial for family business success and how coaching family members on an individual basis can help them become content and happy with their roles in the family business. The episode sheds light on the emotional aspects of transitioning family businesses and the importance of addressing them. It's a must-listen for anyone looking to prepare their family business for the next generation. The one piece of advice Chris offers for both the senior and next generations is... it's worth it. It's hard to focus on the emotional stuff, but it's worth it. If you would like to keep up to date with all our insights, latest research and stories, click to subscribe to our "Veritage Insights Newsletter." (https://bit.ly/3JOd7Qq)

Join Francesco Lombardo for this week's Safe Space as he speaks with Stefanie Kyles, a fourth-generation family business member, and former CEO. Stefanie discusses financial insecurity that is common in family businesses and how family businesses need accountability and transparency to succeed. She shares her experience negotiating with family members to understand their personal sensitivities around risk, financial security, and lifestyle, and emphasizes the importance of separating emotions from conversations around money. The one piece of advice Stefanie offers for both the senior and next generations is simple... talk about it. If you would like to keep up to date with all our insights, latest research and stories, click to subscribe to our "Veritage Insights Newsletter." (https://bit.ly/3JOd7Qq)

Join Francesco Lombardo for this week's Safe Space as he speaks with Philip McKeown, a fifth-generation family business owner from Ireland. Philip discusses family governance and succession planning, as well as his book, Successors Voice, which emphasizes the importance of understanding one's value and role in a family business and the emotional complexities of family dynamics. He also stresses the need to nurture family talent in order to sustain family businesses. Overall, the goal is to prepare successors with the knowledge, confidence, and skills required to successfully integrate into the family enterprise. If you would like to keep up to date with all our insights, latest research and stories, click to subscribe to our "Veritage Insights Newsletter." (https://bit.ly/3JOd7Qq)

Join Francesco Lombardo for this week's Safe Space as he speaks with Cecily McGuckin the CEO and managing director of Queensland Steel and Sheet, in Brisbane, Australia. Cecily talks about the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated industry and the difficulties of succession planning in a family business. Stressing the importance of being prepared for the worst-case scenario and making the business sustainable for future generations, she highlights the need for a clear roadmap to preparedness, including an emotional component. Cecily's advice encourages people to stop apologizing unnecessarily and recognize their worth. If you would like to keep up to date with all our insights, latest research and stories, click to subscribe to our "Veritage Insights Newsletter." (https://bit.ly/3JOd7Qq)

Join Francesco Lombardo for this week's Safe Space episode where he interviews NK Chaudhary, the founder of Jaipur Rugs, who established the company 44 years ago with a vision of uplifting society by enabling everyone to reach their full potential. NK discusses the importance of business purpose and its connection to personal life, and the importance of emotional safety in families, and how to create it. He also shares his personal purpose, knowing himself through the business and improving himself by understanding the impact of his actions and decisions. NK’s one piece of advice to the Senior and NxtGen…regardless of family roles or positions, the most important thing is to be yourself, love yourself, and love others. If you would like to keep up to date with all our insights, latest research and stories, click to subscribe to our "Veritage Insights Newsletter." (https://bit.ly/3JOd7Qq)

Join Francesco Lombardo for this week's Safe Space as he speaks with Torri Hawley, one of five next generation members in a successful 7th generation family enterprise. Internal credibility is about ensuring that one's actions align with their values, while external credibility involves earning the trust and respect of others. For next-generation family members, establishing external credibility can be challenging, as they must prove themselves to be worthy of the business and navigate generational trauma. Torri offers advice to those struggling with credibility issues, encouraging them to trust their instincts, act in a way that aligns with their values, and learn to be comfortable with discomfort. She also stresses the importance of healthy boundaries and the need to distance oneself from toxic relationships. Ultimately, Torri emphasizes the need to believe in oneself and be sure of one's internal credibility, as this can help to navigate the challenges of generational family enterprises. If you would like to keep up to date with all our insights, latest research and stories, click to subscribe to our "Veritage Insights Newsletter." (https://bit.ly/3JOd7Qq)

Join Francesco Lombardo for this week's Safe Space as he speaks with Pasquale Marinelli, a 27th generation owner with Pontificia Fonderia e Museo di Campane, the second oldest family business in the world. With many companies struggling to carry on over just a couple of generations, what is the secret of a successful business that has existed since before 1339? How does the younger generation working right alongside the older generation create the knowledge and respect needed to continue the business? Pasquale, with the support of trusted assistant Ivo, speaks about the fascinating history of the company and how Marinelli Bells have been rung in every continent around the world. Pasquale’s one piece of advice to the Senior and NxtGen…have passion for and love the work. If you would like to keep up to date with all our insights, latest research and stories, click to subscribe to our "Veritage Insights Newsletter." (https://bit.ly/3JOd7Qq)

Join Francesco Lombardo for this week's Safe Space as he speaks with Christine Blondel, expert Family Business Advisor and Adjunct Professor of Family Business at INSEAD. Creating a successful family business is more than just being good at operating the business. Where in the scope of family governance do outsiders come in? Why is it important for family members to become independent for responsible ownership? How is experiencing ordeals going to help both generations grow? Each of these important pieces contribute to a more successful family business. But how? Take a listen! Christine’s one piece of advice to the Senior and NxtGen is simple, listen to each other. If you would like to keep up to date with all our insights, latest research and stories, click to subscribe to our "Veritage Insights Newsletter." (https://bit.ly/3JOd7Qq)

Join Francesco Lombardo for this week's Safe Space as he speaks with Wendy Craft, a lawyer by trade, who “fell” into Family Office about 20 years ago. She is currently Chief Of Staff at Fulcrum Equities, LLC in New York City. In this episode, Wendy & Francesco talk about how keeping up appearances will not make you more successful or happier in the family office. It took many years for Wendy to realize that trying to fit into the perceived family office professional mold wasn’t really about how she dressed or what she knew, it was who she worked for. What can you do to create a safe space in the family office or family business where you’ll be happier, can be yourself and be a better contributor? Take a listen! Wendy’s one piece of advice to the Senior generation…if you love them let them in. Don't wait until it’s too late; hear them, teach them, let them speak their peace, and give them spaces to be involved. For the NxtGen’s, yes maybe you could run the business better but find ways to contribute, find ways to support them instead of trying to wrestle everything away from them, let them be human beings, give them time. If you would like to keep up to date with all our insights, latest research and stories, click to subscribe to our "Veritage Insights Newsletter." (https://bit.ly/3JOd7Qq)

Join Francesco Lombardo for this week's Safe Space as he speaks with Ramia El Agamy, second generation CEO at Orbis Terra Media, editor-in-chief of Tharawat Magazine, and host of The Family Business Voice and Women in Family Business podcasts. Why does traditional governance need to evolve for family business to be successful? How have topics and concerns within family business changed? Ramia’s one piece of advice to the Senior and NxtGen…forever is the most dangerous word in the family enterprise vocabulary. Nothing lasts forever, and nothing should last forever. That is okay, it is not failure, it is evolving. If you would like to keep up to date with all our insights, latest research and stories, click to subscribe to our "Veritage Insights Newsletter." (https://bit.ly/3JOd7Qq)

Join Francesco Lombardo for this week's Safe Space as he speaks with Charlie Rhomberg, 4th generation member of the Schmid family, Crescent Electric Supply Company. Founded in 1919, Crescent Electric Supply has grown significantly over the decades. The 3rd generation of owners realized there needed to be more structure in place for the future generations to keep the business going strong. Now with over 130 family members, how exactly was this accomplished? How is the family keeping the business of the business and the business of the family separate? Why is it just as important for the youngest generations to build connections in the family as it is for the senior generations? Charlie’s advice…for the Senior Generation, continue to work with future generations in developing a plan for what the retirement changeover will look like. NxtGen, learn as much as you can about family history and your roots to create a different kind of connection with the family. If you would like to keep up to date with all our insights, latest research and stories, click to subscribe to our "Veritage Insights Newsletter." (https://bit.ly/3JOd7Qq)

On this week’s Safe Space, Francesco Lombardo is joined by Aubrey Shapiro Ginn, third-generation family business member with Shapiro & Duncan, Inc. where they discuss business succession planning, and how to set up the NxtGen to be successful business owners. In the second-generation of Shapiro & Duncan, the company grew exponentially. As third-generation business members, how do Audrey and the rest of the NxtGen fit into the equation of the continuation of this success? Aubrey’s one piece of advice to the Senior Generation is don’t be afraid of losing control. Her advice for the NxtGen - be patient and learn from the senior generations experiences. If you would like to keep up to date with all our insights, latest research and stories, click to subscribe to our "Veritage Insights Newsletter." (https://bit.ly/3JOd7Qq)

Join Francesco Lombardo for this week's Safe Space as he speaks with Zale Tabakman, first generation owner of Local Grown Salad and his son, Tzvi. Many family businesses make the mistake of mixing work life with personal life. This creates constant conflict, stress and often the demise of the business. In this episode, the group discusses how having clear expectations, setting boundaries, showing respect and learning to trust each other can make all the difference. Tzvi’s advice to the Senior Gen… set healthy boundaries for relationships to be stronger and better. Treat each other with basic respect. Zale’s one piece of advice to the NxtGen… talk about it. Get more information about their products at www.localgrownsalads.com If you would like to keep up to date with all our insights, latest research and stories, click to subscribe to our "Veritage Insights Newsletter." (https://bit.ly/3JOd7Qq)

Join Francesco Lombardo for this week's Safe Space as he speaks with Marisa Zabalak, Educational Psychologist, TEDx & Keynote Speaker and Author. Conflict should be constructive, but it is difficult for many to see it this way. How can family members understand triggers and reactions, and then find the tools and skills to interact with others in order to move forward positively? How can emotions be used as data to give us feedback on interacting with others without using those emotions to manipulate them? Trust should be earned, especially within a family. It’s not just a given. Marisa’s one piece of advice to the Senior and NxtGen…get curious about yourself and others. If you would like to keep up to date with all our insights, latest research and stories, click to subscribe to our "Veritage Insights Newsletter." (https://bit.ly/3JOd7Qq)

Moe Vela joins this week's episode with Francesco Lombardo to discuss the power of identity, and how self-expression leads to purpose in family business. Coming from a family of legacy, a family of pioneers, and growing up in the midst of expectation and responsibility, Moe shares with us his journey as a NxtGen living through trauma and moving towards a journey of healing. Moe's advice to all NxtGen listeners is, "you can either live your life based on what others want you to do, or you can march to the beat of your own drum, thereby enhancing and expanding your family legacy." Moe has now made American History as the first Hispanic LGBT American to serve twice in the White House in a Senior Executive role. Most recently as the Director of Management and Deputy Chief of Staff to Joe Biden. Now working as an attorney, entrepreneur, and now co-executive producing and co-starring in a new business reality show called Unicorn Hunters. In this soulful dialogue, Francesco and Moe break down the devastating side-effects of living an authentic life and the struggle to embrace oneself wholly. Moe shares his vulnerable story of survival and success, "knowing that by making myself vulnerable through authenticity, that is the only way I will have meaningful connections with other human beings, in business, and in my personal life". Moe's one piece of advice to the Senior and NxtGen…authentically be vulnerable, authentically be you, authentically love.

Stephen Hecht returns to the Safe Space podcast to speak with Francesco Lombardo about Nonflict Resolution within the family business. How can families find the tools to resolve conflicts in relationships and within the family business? How does focusing on the NxtGen of the family help us learn and grow? How can families stop the disrespect between generations in the family business? Stephen’s one piece of advice to the Senior and NxtGen…conflict can be positive. We need conflict. We need constructive conflict for innovation and growth. If you would like to keep up to date with all our insights, latest research and stories, click to subscribe to our "Veritage Insights Newsletter." (https://bit.ly/3JOd7Qq)

Join Francesco Lombardo for this week's Safe Space as he speaks with Jenny Dinnen and Katie Rucker, second-generation co-owners and co-presidents of Mackenzie Corp. How is being vulnerable an important piece of making a family business successful? What is the narrative you want for yourself and your family business? Katie & Jenny’s one piece of advice to the Senior and NxtGen…be vulnerable and open, but get to know yourself first. If you would like to keep up to date with all our insights, latest research and stories, click to subscribe to our "Veritage Insights Newsletter." (https://bit.ly/3JOd7Qq)