Legacy Builders: Strategies for Building Successful Family Enterprises

In this episode, we’re joined by Susan Latremoille, Co-Founder and Partner at Next Chapter Lifestyle Advisors. With more than 35 years of experience as a wealth advisor, including leadership roles on RBC’s Chairman’s Council and the board of Richardson Wealth, Susan now helps clients and advisors plan for the human side of life transitions. As a Certified Exit Planning Advisor and Retirement Coach, she invites us to rethink what comes after the sale of a business or the end of a career, not just financially, but emotionally and personally. We discuss how to clarify purpose beyond work, reigni...

In this episode, we’re joined by Russel Baskin, a consultant and certified executive coach with Trella Advisory Group. Drawing from her background in human development and two decades of experience with business families, Russel helps name what often goes unspoken in transition, how control, identity, and legacy quietly shape relationships and decision-making. From habitual patterns to intergenerational tension, she invites us to consider how emotional insight and structural clarity work together in succession. 

Her approach emphasises empathy, shared understanding, and space for each generation to grow into their role with intention. If you're supporting a family in...

In this episode, Dr. Julia Edelman, board-certified gynecologist, author, and nationally recognized menopause expert, joins us to open a conversation we’ve never had on Legacy Builders: the impact of women’s health, specifically menopause, on family enterprise. A Yale, Columbia, and Harvard-trained physician with over four decades of experience, Dr. Edelman brings both clinical authority and compassionate insight to a topic that touches individuals and family systems alike.

Together, we examine how menopause, often unspoken and misunderstood, can shape communication, influence decision-making, and affect readiness for leadership transitions. You’ll hear how silence around these experiences can er...

In this episode, we’re joined by Keita Demming, Partner at The Covenant Group, award-winning author of Strategy to Action, and trusted advisor in strategy, design, and innovation. We explore how strategy becomes a lived practice through intentional behaviour, personal development, and the quality of our conversations. Keita shares his approach to coaching leaders through conflict avoidance, curating effective inner circles, and aligning day-to-day actions with long-term vision. He introduces a powerful shift in thinking from chasing outcomes to asking better questions and what it means to lead with clarity and courage.

We talk about what strategy re...

In this episode, we’re joined by Jenna Carvalho, Founder and Principal of Guardian Estate Company, whose work sits at the intersection of estate planning, family relationships, and meaningful legacy. With more than 100 estates and dozens of trusts under her direct care, Jenna has witnessed the full spectrum of outcomes, both smooth and strained, when families face the inevitable transitions that come with wealth, loss, and leadership. We talk about what it’s really like to act as an executor for the first time, how communication (or the absence of it) can change everything, and why estate planning is less...

In this episode, we’re joined by Andrea Lekushoff, founder and CEO of CONTEXT Studios, where personal stories become powerful tools for connection, continuity, and leadership. We talk about the invisible value of lived experience, how one person’s reflections can clarify identity, honour legacy, and even shape culture across generations. What does it mean to “be seen” by the people who come after you? How do stories become more than memories, and why is capturing them now, not later, a strategic decision?

Andrea shares how stories of struggle, resilience, and values often told too late can become g...

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Paul Edelman, a Harvard-trained psychologist and longtime advisor to leaders and families navigating complex transitions. What if uncertainty isn’t something to fix but something to learn from? What if discomfort could actually move us forward? Together, we explore these questions and more, looking at how moments of disorientation can deepen clarity, stretch capacity, and strengthen connection across generations.

Paul brings a grounded perspective to the kinds of moments many of us try to avoid when roles are shifting, plans feel uncertain, or emotions run high. Instead of rushing to r...

In this episode, Dr. Dennis T. Jaffe, Senior Research Fellow at BanyanGlobal Family Business Advisors, joins us to explore how family enterprises can evolve with intention across generations. A globally recognised adviser, educator, and author of Wealth 3.0 and Borrowed from Your Grandchildren, Dennis brings decades of insight into how families build shared purpose, navigate complexity, and sustain legacies that matter.

Together, we look at the role of values in decision-making, the shift from inheritance to stewardship, and the everyday work of preparing the next generation. With a calm and grounded perspective, Dennis invites us to rethink not...

In this episode, Julia Chung, Co-Founder and CEO of Spring Planning, joins us to explore the kinds of questions that can reshape a family’s future. As Board Director and FEA Community Council Chair at Family Enterprise Canada, and Chair of the Financial Planning Association of Canada’s Board, Julia brings a depth of experience that turns difficult conversations into turning points. Together, we venture into the spaces where legacy is defined, identity is examined, and agency is reclaimed.

You’ll hear how imagining the future from the very end can shift today’s choices, why the stories...

In this episode, Shauna Trainor, Principal at A&O Partners, invites us into the often overlooked spaces where clarity, courage, and connection shape the future of enterprising families. Drawing from her background in business, psychology, and systems thinking, Shauna helps us reframe how family conversations become the foundation for shared decision-making across generations.

Shauna shares why many answers already exist within families if we're willing to slow down, ask the right questions, and listen beyond the surface. We explore how unspoken complaints often sound like blame or shame, and how reframing them into requests opens doors to...

In this episode, Jane Beddall, founder of Dovetail Resolutions, helps us reframe how conflict shows up in family enterprises. Drawing on her experience as a mediator, consultant, and conflict coach, Jane shares why not all conflict is the same—and how the fear of escalation often prevents families from addressing tension early. We explore the distinction between healthy disagreement and deeper dysfunction, and why timing, environment, and tone matter more than we often realize.

Jane offers a fresh lens on how families can turn conflict into connection. From the “ugly kind” of conflict to the kind that builds...

In this episode of Legacy Builders, we welcome Krista Rabidoux, Partner at Andersen in Canada, for a thoughtful conversation on leadership transition, generational readiness, and the emotional complexity of family enterprise. With over two decades of experience in U.S.-Canada cross-border tax planning and deep involvement in the family enterprise space, Krista shares how clarity, adaptability, and inclusive governance can help families move forward, especially when navigating uncertainty or change.

Together, Cory and Krista explore what it takes to prepare rising generation leaders not just in theory, but in real-world ownership. They discuss how families can...

In this episode, Don Steele, CEO and Founder of Sterling Family Capital, shares his perspective on guiding family enterprises through complex transitions with clarity and collaboration. With deep roots in finance and advisory, Don helps families navigate the emotional and strategic layers of ownership, succession, and legacy-building across generations.

Throughout the conversation, Don discusses how to recognize intuitive signals, untangle personal and business challenges, and build capacity in the rising generation. He highlights the importance of collaborative advisory teams, intentional mentorship, and developing an ownership mindset. Tune in to hear Don’s practical insights on strengthening family ca...

In this episode, we welcome Kristen Heaney, Founder & Coach of In Three Generations, LLC, a trusted coach to financially successful families, and an authentic voice in the wealth management space. Known for her unique perspective as an "unprepared inheritor in recovery," Kristen brings a deep understanding of family wealth challenges, bridging the gap between gratitude and burden while helping families navigate the complexities of wealth preservation and transition. Together, we explore what it takes to honour legacy while fostering individual expression, touching on unconscious behaviors, stewardship responsibilities, and what it means to redefine success across generations in wealth, family...

In this episode, we welcome Purdeep Sangha—Director of Sangha Worldwide, trusted advisor to CEOs and board members, and co-host of Mind Your Own Business. Known for helping leaders operate at their highest potential, Purdeep brings a unique perspective rooted in neuroscience, performance psychology, and ancient wisdom. Together, we explore what it takes to sustain peak performance while maintaining personal harmony, touching on relationship dysfunction, energy management, courageous decision-making, and what it means to become a truly Complete Man in work, family, and life.

Throughout our conversation, Purdeep challenges the belief that professional excellence alone defines success. He...

In this episode, Dr. Sharilyn Hale, President of Watermark Philanthropic Counsel, shares her expertise from over twenty-five years in philanthropy as a trusted advisor helping clients channel wealth and influence for positive impact. As a Chartered Director, advisor with 2164, faculty member of the Ultra High Net Worth Institute, and instructor at Carleton University, Dr. Hale brings unique insights from her doctoral research that produced an innovative governance model for family giving—work recently recognized with a 2025 Family Wealth Report Award. In our conversation, we explore purpose-driven wealth stewardship, the delicate balance between individual and collective values in family philanthropy, an...

In our upcoming episode, we explore the essential strategies for aligning values and purpose across family enterprise systems with Holly Simmons, Principal Managing Partner at Golden Lasso Consulting and Family Enterprise Advisor. This conversation examines how leadership development, effective communication, and clear role definition serve as foundational elements for sustainable growth and family harmony in business settings. Listeners will gain insights into balancing individual needs with collective goals, building stronger relationships through intentional practices, and creating systems that honour both personal contributions and shared heritage

During our discussion, listeners can look forward to exploring the balance between...

In this episode, Emily Bouchard, Chief Learning Officer at 10x10 Roadmap and Founder of Bouchard Bespoke Consulting, shares her extensive expertise on helping wealthy families navigate the complexities of multigenerational wealth, relationships, and leadership. With over 20 years of experience coaching families, Emily offers valuable insights on developing healthy identities for family members regardless of their relationship to family wealth.

Throughout the conversation, Emily explores crucial concepts such as the unique challenges faced by young people in affluent families, the importance of operationalizing family values, and creating purposeful prenuptial agreements that strengthen relationships rather than undermining them. She...

In this episode, Gerard McInnis, Senior Partner at Kalos Transactions Advisory, MacKay CEO Forum Chair, and Chair of the Board at Cashco Financial Services Inc., shares his expertise on valuation principles and strategic capital structure for family enterprises. With over 30 years of experience in business valuations, strategy, governance, and operations, Gerard explores how businesses can optimize their approach to value creation while navigating succession planning and intergenerational transitions.

Throughout the conversation, Gerard delves into essential concepts like the three types of business leaders, capital structure optimization, and practical approaches to strategic planning that drive sustainable value. He...

In this episode, Paul Hood, one of the most influential voices in purposeful planning and family business governance, navigates the complex terrain of family business decision-making and succession planning. With decades of experience as a tax attorney, educator, and trusted advisor featured in Forbes, USA TODAY, and The Wall Street Journal, Paul reveals what truly matters when families face their most critical crossroads: whether to keep or sell their business.

Throughout the conversation, Paul explores essential concepts like creating psychologically safe environments for authentic family discussions, why including all voices—even those of children as young as ei...

In this episode, Matt Fullbrook, one of North America's most recognizable voices in corporate governance, explores the nuanced world of boardrooms and what truly makes them effective. With over two decades of experience in more than 300 boardrooms, Matt challenges conventional wisdom about what it means to be "skilled" and how boards can function at their highest potential despite uncertainty.

Throughout the conversation, Matt delves into essential concepts like redefining success in the boardroom, the difference between technical expertise and genuine contribution, and why board composition goes far beyond professional credentials. He emphasizes the importance of treating connections...

In our latest episode, Dave Specht, Director of the Drucker School Global Family Business Institute and author of "The Family Business Whisperer," shares his insights on developing ownership mindsets across generations. With an expansive career that includes training over 2,500 advisors and bankers on family dynamics, founding Advising Generations, and establishing the Family Business Management program at the University of Nebraska, Dave brings a powerful blend of academic wisdom and practical experience to help families navigate the intricate path of generational continuity.

Throughout the conversation, Dave illuminates the delicate balance between protecting and empowering rising generations in family...

In this episode, Doug Gray, Ph.D., Founder and CEO of Action Learning Associates, LLC and co-Founder of Assess Next Gen, LLC, shares his expertise on fostering psychological capital (PsyCap) and intergenerational understanding within family enterprises. With over 25 years of experience and a deep background in leadership development, Doug explores how families can build stronger connections across generations while managing wealth and legacy dynamics.

Throughout the conversation, Doug delves into essential concepts like the HERO framework (Hope, Efficacy, Resilience, and Optimism) and practical approaches to family storytelling and legacy preservation. He emphasizes the importance of creating safe...

In our latest episode, Daphne McGuffin of D3 Learning Solutions explores the transformative power of continuous learning and self-discovery in family enterprises. She introduces groundbreaking frameworks that help families move from uncertainty to confident action, including her "Line of Confidence" model that guides families through the crucial stages of learning, alignment, and implementation. Through her work at D3 Learning Solutions, Daphne demonstrates how understanding individual instincts and natural abilities can revolutionize how families approach succession and governance.

Throughout the conversation, Daphne delves into the relationship between personal development and collective growth in family businesses, particularly through her...

In our latest episode, Bill Brushett, Advisor, Director, and TEC Canada Chair, shares his insights on intentional leadership development and succession planning in family enterprises. With over 40 years of experience spanning roles from President & CEO of Family Enterprise Canada to National Clients & Services Partner at Grant Thornton LLP, Bill brings a powerful combination of financial acumen and executive wisdom to help families navigate generational transitions and strategic growth.

Throughout the conversation, Bill illuminates the interplay between emotional connection and strategic foresight in family business success. He explores compelling perspectives on mentorship and peer learning while offering practical...

In our latest episode, we sit down with Torri Hawley, a dynamic voice in family enterprise education who brings both professional expertise and lived experience to her role as Director of Client Learning Experience at Tamarind Learning. Drawing from her journey as a seventh-generation member of a 150-year-old family enterprise, Torri shares insights about finding one's place within a family business legacy. Named among Family Business Magazine's "25 Under 35: Next-Gen Members to Watch," she embodies the bridge between traditional family enterprise values and next-generation perspectives.

In this conversation, Torri explores the importance of patience, relationship building, and the...

In this episode, Vincent Valeri, Managing Director of Vincent Valeri & Associates and Principal, Family Capital Services at CMG, shares his insights on guiding enterprising families through the delicate balance of wealth stewardship and personal authenticity. With extensive experience working with some of the wealthiest families in the country, Vincent brings a unique perspective that emphasizes the importance of individual self-actualization within the context of family wealth. His approach focuses on helping next-generation family members discover their own path while navigating the complex dynamics of inherited privilege.

Throughout the conversation, Vincent illuminates the critical balance between honouring the...

In this episode, Thomas Clark, Chief Operating Officer of Veritage International, shares his distinctive approach to nurturing family enterprises through education and intergenerational development. With over a decade of experience from the Business Families Foundation to Family Enterprise Canada, Thomas brings a unique blend of educational expertise and practical business acumen to help families develop shared language and cultivate intrapreneurial mindsets across generations.

Throughout the conversation, Thomas draws compelling parallels between sports team dynamics and family enterprises, illuminating insights about legacy building and sustainable growth. He introduces innovative concepts like the family learning budget and emphasizes the...

In our latest episode, we welcome Danielle Saputo, President and Owner of Danielle Saputo Legacy Coach & Family Enterprise Advisor. With a distinguished academic background and certifications from prestigious institutions, Danielle shares her expertise as a Family Enterprise Advisor Designate and Certified Coach. Throughout our conversation, she emphasizes the critical importance of recognizing opportunities, finding one's voice, and balancing individual development with family unity in the context of family enterprises. 

Danielle delves into key topics such as the multifaceted nature of courage within family businesses, the delicate balance between respecting traditions and personal growth, and the unique challenges f...

In this episode, Joshua Nacht, a senior consultant with The Family Business Consulting Group, shares his insights on helping business families create structured plans for continuity and success across generations. Joshua has extensively researched family business leadership and discusses the importance of developing effective governance, communication, strategies and managing transitions within family enterprises.

Throughout the conversation, Joshua explores key concepts such as creating a shared family vision, balancing tradition with innovation, and the role of family champions in driving positive change. He emphasizes the value of collaborative goal-setting, effective governance structures, and aligning family values with business...

In this episode, Ruschelle Khanna, Owner of Ruschelle Khanna Consulting, shares her innovative approach to guiding high-net-worth families through the complexities of wealth management and generational transitions. With over twenty years of experience and a unique blend of therapeutic expertise and wealth consciousness, Ruschelle brings a holistic perspective to her clients. She emphasizes the importance of addressing inherited patterns, resolving ancestral trauma, and fostering mindfulness to ensure long-term success and harmony in family enterprises.

Throughout the conversation, Ruschelle highlights the significant impact of uncovering and transforming inherited patterns on both individual well-being and family business performance. She...

In our latest episode, we welcome Anna Giampà, Chief Learning & Development Officer at Crysalia, for an in-depth discussion on family enterprises. Anna, a certified Family Enterprise Advisor with over two decades of experience, shares her unique insights on navigating the complex interplay between family dynamics and business strategy.

Throughout our conversation, Anna emphasizes the critical importance of open communication and diverse perspectives across all family circles. She delves into key topics such as strategic planning for family businesses, the benefits of engaging younger generations early, and the vital role of maintaining family alignment alongside enterprise development. Anna o...

In this episode, Franco Lombardo, Founder and CEO of Veritage International, offers a fresh perspective on the symbiosis between personal growth and family business success. Franco uncovers how confronting entrenched narratives and building emotionally secure environments can reshape family business operations. He delves into practical strategies for nurturing genuine relationships and refining decision-making processes, illuminating how transparency and shared values can harmonize individual aspirations with broader business goals.

The conversation explores crucial themes such as the ripple effects of emotional safety in business settings, the convergence of individual development and collective family enterprise achievements, and the catalytic...

In this episode, Steve Legler a Senior Consultant at Blackwood Family Enterprise Services, talks about his experiences helping wealthy families make tough decisions and work through challenges that span generations. Steve, who grew up in a business family himself, shares what he's learned about keeping families and their businesses healthy over time.

Throughout the conversation, Steve touches on important ideas like getting advice from people who don't have a hidden agenda, finding family members who can champion positive change, and why it's crucial for families to meet regularly and talk openly. He explains how these practices can...

In this episode, Russ Haworth, Family Business Advisor at The Family Business Partnership, shares his extensive expertise in guiding families of wealth through complex decisions and multi-generational challenges. Russ delves into the critical aspects of effective governance frameworks and personal accountability, introducing his innovative approach to reimagining the role of the family advisor. He emphasizes the importance of balancing individual responsibility with collective support, particularly when fostering the grit and resilience needed for successful wealth preservation and legacy planning across generations.

Throughout the conversation, Russ explores key topics such as the power of storytelling in family businesses...

In this episode, Tom McCullough, Chairman & CEO of Northwood Family Office, shares his extensive expertise on sustaining family enterprises across generations. Tom delves into the critical aspects of strategic planning and adaptability, introducing the Ikigai framework as a powerful tool for aligning family values and aspirations. He emphasizes the importance of balancing valuable traditions with evolving needs, particularly when approaching succession planning with a forward-looking mindset.

Throughout the conversation, Tom explores key topics such as long-term sustainability of family enterprises, the intersection of personal passions and societal needs in the Ikigai concept, and the role of professional...

In our latest episode, we welcome James Grieve, Founder & Principal Strategic Advisor at Catalyst Strategies Consulting and Past President of the Institute of Certified Management Consultants of British Columbia. Join us as we discuss the significance of humility, curiosity, and a purposeful process in uncovering blind spots, fostering alignment, and preparing businesses for successful transitions. 

James stresses the power of a strong strategic foundation, effective change management, and the vital role of the community in enabling leaders to leave a lasting legacy. James' approach to developing purposeful strategies and managing change underscores the importance of having a t...

In this episode, Melanie Harty, Partner at Grant Thornton LLP, shares her expertise in guiding agricultural families through generational transitions and legacy planning. With her background as a CPA and certified Family Enterprise Advisor, as well as her firsthand experience working on her family farm, Melanie brings a unique and practical perspective to her clients. She emphasizes the importance of clear communication, aligned visions between generations, and thoughtful decision-making in ensuring family businesses' long-term success and harmony.

Throughout the conversation, Melanie highlights the significance of adaptability, realistic expectations, and inclusive discussions in preserving a legacy for future...

In this episode, Gavin Brauer, a Professional EOS Implementer, shares his insights on the vital role of confidence in an entrepreneur's journey and the challenges of staying true to oneself and one's vision in the face of obstacles. With diverse experience in industries such as health tech, manufacturing, consumer brands, professional services, and non-profits, Gavin has successfully guided his clients to achieve their full potential. He is also the co-founder of Pearl Interactives, which develops innovative video games that enable kids with disabilities to access wellness through play and owns and operates KindHuman Bicycles, crafting high-performance bikes, running a...

In this episode, Darrin Hotte, a certified Family Mediator and Family Enterprise Advisor at New Solution Mediation, shares insights from his 35 years of experience in conflict resolution, family business dynamics, and complex relationships. Darrin emphasizes the importance of curiosity, empathy, and clarity in navigating difficult conversations and decision-making processes within families. He highlights the therapeutic value of mediation, which enables participants to discover their true interests and desires while fostering understanding and collaboration.

Darrin discusses the role of generational patterns in family conflicts and the significance of preparing for important conversations with a focus on personal growth...

In our latest Legacy Builders episode, Anne Evamy, Owner and Advisor at Junction Point Inc., shares her journey and insights as a Certified Value Builder and Family Enterprise Advisor. Drawing from her experience as a successful entrepreneur, Anne emphasizes the importance of intentionality, adaptability, and open communication when navigating family business dynamics and succession planning. She highlights the value of understanding one's strengths and having the right advisors to guide families through the complexities of continuity and value creation.

Throughout the conversation, Anne emphasizes the importance of intentionality, adaptability, and open communication when navigating family business dynamics...

In this engaging episode, Jas Butalia shares his journey from a traditional CA to a family business advisor, highlighting the importance of mentorship, learning from mistakes, and adapting to meet clients' evolving needs. Jas discusses how his mentors encouraged him to explore tax planning, even if it meant making errors, as they provided a safety net for growth.

A pivotal moment in 2009 led Jas to realize that family businesses required more than technical expertise; they needed guidance on family dynamics and continuity planning. He emphasizes the significance of asking probing questions to understand clients' true goals and...

In this episode, Sharon Gray, CPA CA CBV, shares her expertise in navigating the complexities present in family business assignments. We explore the importance of proactive planning, education, and clear communication among parties involved in business transactions to ensure better outcomes for both the family and the business.

Hear Sharon's perspective on the need for shareholders to have a clear understanding of their roles, responsibilities, and expectations in an open forum to reduce conflicts and minimize costly legal intervention. She discusses the challenges of transitioning ownership, the fight between personal financial needs and business investments, and the...

In this episode, Spencer Mellace shares his journey from his early days as a financial advisor to his current role as a trusted guide for families seeking alignment and prosperity. As a fee-only adviser specializing in estate and succession planning, Spencer emphasizes the importance of a personalized, client-centric approach that focuses on understanding each family's unique dynamics, values, and aspirations. He highlights the significance of prioritizing objectives, tailoring strategies to meet specific needs, and guiding families through the decision-making process with clarity and purpose.

Throughout the conversation, Spencer discusses the evolution of his career and the key...

In this episode, Tim Yeung shares his insights on navigating family businesses. As a family enterprise advisor, he emphasizes the importance of finding one's path, maintaining a growth mindset, and effectively communicating with others. Tim discusses the challenges of differentiation and creating an identity separate from the family business. He highlights the psychological barriers that next-generation family members often face when joining the business, such as the pressure to live up to the founder's legacy and the need to establish credibility.

Furthermore, Tim emphasizes the significance of a shared vision, core values and focuses on human capital...

In this episode, Judi Cunningham shares insights on building resilience when faced with adversity during strategic planning for family enterprises. We explore the importance of facilitating open and curious dialogue to understand differing perspectives, giving family members agency in conversations, and assessing what's truly important to make clearer decisions.

Hear Judi's perspective on transforming unproductive communication into a constructive discussion over time, establishing clear family versus business roles to reduce confusion, and implementing information-sharing protocols as more households take ownership. She offers examples of leaning on wider communities or specialists like her Trella Advisory Group when alignment...

In this episode, Leah Tolton shares insights on business governance and ownership transitions for family enterprises. We explore the importance of flexibility in shareholder agreements, setting clear expectations around participation to prevent disputes, formalizing information flow as more households get involved, and not letting perfect planning delay progress. Hear Leah's perspective on navigating fair vs equal dynamics, protecting assets in marriages, and bridging generational risk profiles.

How can transitioning from first to third-generation ownership be smooth? Leah offers examples of family and ownership meetings to align on goals. We also discuss prenuptial agreements, estate freezes, and special...

We're honoured to tap pioneering succession advisor Gerry Meyer for the first 2024 episode of Legacy Builders. Guiding families and firms through leadership changeovers for over 30 years, Gerry unpacks the forward-thinking strategies that enable generational continuity.

He spotlights communication and accountability as the bedrocks for seamless transition planning. We discuss best practices for aligned expectations across generations, detailed timelines for readiness as well as Gerry's proven enterprise blueprint to future-proof any family company.

Gerry also provides invaluable perspective into the unique inclusion challenges facing non-family executives in navigating complex family dynamics. Tune in for critical lessons...

In this podcast, Cory engages in a conversation with Barb, unveiling the intricate dynamics of family enterprises through Barb's extensive experience. Throughout their discussion, Barb sheds light on the varied yet common threads among family-owned businesses, particularly emphasizing the pivotal areas of succession and continuity planning. She underscores the often-overlooked aspect of thoughtful preparation, stressing the need for timely succession planning and urging families to commence this process well in advance.

Barb's profound expertise shed light on the nuances of integrating external directors into family enterprises and the potential challenges that may arise during this process. The...

In this podcast episode, Cory engages with Shauna Feth, President and CEO of the Alberta Chambers of Commerce (ACC), delving into the pivotal value of family enterprises in communities. Shauna emphasizes embracing opportunities for growth and learning, drawing from her privileged experience within a multi-generational business family. She passionately highlights how family enterprises not only contribute financially but also socially and emotionally to communities. These businesses play a pivotal role, in giving back by supporting local economies, sponsoring events, and investing in various community projects.

Shauna underscores the significance of support networks within family enterprises, advocating for...

In this episode of the Legacy Builders Podcast, we sit down with Trevor MacLean, a Partner at MNP's Agriculture team in Lethbridge. With over two decades of experience, Trevor is dedicated to providing creative, customized, and practical solutions to agricultural producers and agribusinesses throughout Western Canada. Drawing on his extensive background in agribusiness and financial services, Trevor excels in identifying key issues and crafting tailored solutions to manage risk, improve performance, and capitalize on emerging opportunities.

Trevor shares his motto of "be aware, be curious, and be inspiring," emphasizing the importance of lifelong learning and leadership in...

In this engaging episode of "Legacy Builders," Cory Gagnon, your host, deepens our understanding of family business legacies with the guidance of the esteemed David Blom from Black Blackwood Family Enterprise Services. Together, they unravel the intricate fabric of generational continuity and the imperative task of defining, protecting, and evolving these unique legacies.

David masterfully illustrates the need for family businesses to stay flexible, adapt to changing times, and spell out their legacy's essence. The story of a family constitution initially centered on entrepreneurship, then embracing excellence and accommodating diverse family visions, serves as a poignant example...

In this episode of "Legacy Builders," Cory Gagnon navigates the intricacies of family and business well-being while unraveling the enigmatic "happiness factor." Happiness emerges as a pivotal component in the prosperity of family enterprises. It is shown that a content family, in which individuals find happiness, operates with enhanced effectiveness and communication, fostering commitment to both the business and one another. Notably, happiness also acts as a magnet for cultivating a positive company culture and attracting high-caliber employees and customers.

Illustrating these principles, the episode recounts the journey of the Trudel family, who manage an organic farm a...

In this episode, Shauna Frederick, a renowned expert in family enterprise advising, engages in a thought-provoking discussion with host Cory Gagnon. The conversation begins with Shauna emphasizing the value of acknowledging uncertainty and the power of saying "I don't know." She underscores how this humility can be a key strength, especially for individuals, including women, entering family enterprises.

The discussion then delves into the challenges faced by the rising generation in family enterprises. Shauna highlights the unrealistic expectation of immediate expertise and the importance of fostering a culture of learning and open communication within these businesses. The...

Welcome to episode 6, where we unravel the intricacies of wealth transition and the vital role of family values in preserving legacies.  

In this episode, we delve into the art of aligning family values with astute financial strategies. I bring over a decade of experience advising family enterprises to the forefront, sharing real-life stories that highlight the transformative power of values-driven wealth transition.

Discover practical strategies such as tailored curriculum development and holistic financial literacy, and learn how experts like wealth advisors and estate planning lawyers can be your allies in achieving a seamless wealth transition.  

In this episode, we're joined by Cindy Radu, a seasoned finance professional with 35+ years of experience. Her journey is a testament to seizing opportunities and overcoming challenges. Cindy's diverse career spans legal, fiduciary, trust, and governance realms, granting her a holistic grasp of wealth complexities. Her impressive credentials include B.Comm, FCPA, LL.B., LL.M, TEP, ICD.D, and Family Enterprise Advisor.

Cindy also believes education empowers individuals to be responsible stewards of their wealth. Advisors play a pivotal role in facilitating this process.

Aligning multiple generations within a family enterprise is critical for...

Defining Philanthropy:

Generational Wealth and Philanthropy:

Introduction:

● Host Cory introduces Gena Rotstein, a leading figure in Canada's social enterprise and philanthropy realm.

● Her unique journey and perspective promise a captivating conversation.

From Collaboration to Innovation: Karma & Cents:

● Cory sheds light on Gena's collaboration with Richard Ouellette,, which gave rise to Karma & Cents, an innovative social impact lab.

● This venture stands as a testament to Gena's dedication to driving positive change in society.

A Unique Perspective on Wealth's Purpose:

● Gena's journey is colored by her distinctive perspective as a member of the rising gen...

Summary: 

This episode delves into the critical role of governance in family enterprises. It emphasizes how governance serves as the foundation for efficient and transparent family offices and businesses. The necessity of family governance is highlighted, particularly in the contexts of family offices, wealth management, succession planning, and estate planning. A practical scenario involving a family business also illustrating the benefits of structured family governance, including transparency, communication, and defined roles.

Importance of Governance in Family Enterprises:

Summary: 

In this episode, Cory introduces Trudy Pelletier, an expert in communication and governance for family enterprises. Trudy shares her inspiring journey, emphasizing the importance of understanding childhood experiences and living life with purpose. She defines her role as facilitating difficult conversations within families and highlights the need for open communication, especially regarding money matters. Trudy also addresses handling resistance within families and discusses common challenges in wealth transition, including unresolved family history. She explains the initial steps in starting family conversations and strategies for overcoming biases and stories that hinder effective communication. Finally, Trudy identifies three k...

Cory Gagnon doesn’t just love supporting multi-generational families every day. He loves digging into topics and sharing information that matters to family enterprises! In Legacy Builders: Strategies for Building Successful Family Enterprises, Cory, Senior Wealth Advisor with Beacon Family Office at Assante Financial Management Ltd, dives deep to share ways for business owners, family stewards, and the rising generation in family enterprises to take control of their wealth and build a lasting legacy. Through interviews with industry experts and solo talks, each episode provides understandable and actionable strategies and insights on complete wealth management. From navigating family dynamics to...