174 episodes

The Disruptive Successor Show is a podcast for next-generation leaders in family businesses and entrepreneurs who want to disrupt the status quo to grow their business and take it to the next level.

We all know that what got us here isn’t going to get us there.

If you are taking control over your family’s business or trying to get your business to the next level, you will need inspiration, advice and resources to help you create a massive impact.

Listeners of my show include not only the millennial or Gen Z but also the Baby Boomer and Gen Y. My listeners tend to be involved in these industries: business services, construction, design-build-maintain landscape contracting, food manufacturing, property management, real estate, and technology.

And are interested in issues like business coaching, branding, communication, difficult conversations, disruption, employee ownership, exit planning, financial management, leadership, innovation, intergenerational transfer, marketing, multi-generational family businesses, business operations, process documentation, security, selling, storytelling, succession, visioning, wealth management,

My guests are entrepreneurs, family business advisors, multi-generational and Gen 2 family business leaders, heads of university family business programs, consultants, coaches and firms that serve those who are growth businesses.

Clients of my show typically are running businesses with 10 to 200 employees and $1M to $20M in revenues.

Their concerns include: scaling up, exit planning, succession, leadership development, disruption, business planning, finances, growth planning, transferring generational wealth, transferring control, ownership issues, and more.

The benefits listeners receive are introductions to experts and advisors around the issues of growing and exiting a business, whether it’s a family business or entrepreneurial venture. They get a feel for the challenges other business owners and leaders face and how they overcame them. They will hear stories from people and how they came to do their work and why.

My shows feature handpicked guests who engage with me in casual conversations lasting between 30 to 40 minutes. You can expect to be entertained, engaged and may even get takeaways like business tools or ideas for implementation in your business.

I’ve led entrepreneurial adventures in art, clothing, a holistic health lifestyle magazine and trade show, shoe manufacturing. I’ve also led several non-profit organizations. I earned an MBA from the University of Southern California in Entrepreneurship.

I’ve been advising, coaching and consulting family-owned, family-run and entrepreneur-led businesses since 1989. My love for entrepreneurship follows the closure of my family’s sizeable multi-generational clothing manufacturing company after eight decades of operation because there were no successors.

After uncovering the code to scale up a family-run business - a playbook and a disruptive successor - I wrote a book called Disruptive Successor: A Guide To Driving Growth in Your Family Business.

My podcast is my effort to bring interested people into the conversation to benefit disruptive successors.

Disruptive Successor Podcast Salescast

    • Business

The Disruptive Successor Show is a podcast for next-generation leaders in family businesses and entrepreneurs who want to disrupt the status quo to grow their business and take it to the next level.

We all know that what got us here isn’t going to get us there.

If you are taking control over your family’s business or trying to get your business to the next level, you will need inspiration, advice and resources to help you create a massive impact.

Listeners of my show include not only the millennial or Gen Z but also the Baby Boomer and Gen Y. My listeners tend to be involved in these industries: business services, construction, design-build-maintain landscape contracting, food manufacturing, property management, real estate, and technology.

And are interested in issues like business coaching, branding, communication, difficult conversations, disruption, employee ownership, exit planning, financial management, leadership, innovation, intergenerational transfer, marketing, multi-generational family businesses, business operations, process documentation, security, selling, storytelling, succession, visioning, wealth management,

My guests are entrepreneurs, family business advisors, multi-generational and Gen 2 family business leaders, heads of university family business programs, consultants, coaches and firms that serve those who are growth businesses.

Clients of my show typically are running businesses with 10 to 200 employees and $1M to $20M in revenues.

Their concerns include: scaling up, exit planning, succession, leadership development, disruption, business planning, finances, growth planning, transferring generational wealth, transferring control, ownership issues, and more.

The benefits listeners receive are introductions to experts and advisors around the issues of growing and exiting a business, whether it’s a family business or entrepreneurial venture. They get a feel for the challenges other business owners and leaders face and how they overcame them. They will hear stories from people and how they came to do their work and why.

My shows feature handpicked guests who engage with me in casual conversations lasting between 30 to 40 minutes. You can expect to be entertained, engaged and may even get takeaways like business tools or ideas for implementation in your business.

I’ve led entrepreneurial adventures in art, clothing, a holistic health lifestyle magazine and trade show, shoe manufacturing. I’ve also led several non-profit organizations. I earned an MBA from the University of Southern California in Entrepreneurship.

I’ve been advising, coaching and consulting family-owned, family-run and entrepreneur-led businesses since 1989. My love for entrepreneurship follows the closure of my family’s sizeable multi-generational clothing manufacturing company after eight decades of operation because there were no successors.

After uncovering the code to scale up a family-run business - a playbook and a disruptive successor - I wrote a book called Disruptive Successor: A Guide To Driving Growth in Your Family Business.

My podcast is my effort to bring interested people into the conversation to benefit disruptive successors.

    Episode 175 - Models for Next Gen Giving — Unleashing the Power of Philanthropy with Shelley Hoss and Drew Hoeven

    Episode 175 - Models for Next Gen Giving — Unleashing the Power of Philanthropy with Shelley Hoss and Drew Hoeven

    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 business success with purposeful philanthropy. He discusses the strategic advantages of charitable giving, including tax benefits, and emphasizes the importance of aligning corporate values with philanthropic efforts. Drew's perspective underscores how businesses can drive positive social change while achieving sustainable growth.
    SHOW SUMMARY

    In this episode of Disruptive Successor, host Jonathan Goldhill explores the power of strategic philanthropy and its multiple benefits with guests Shelley Hoss, a 38-year leader in philanthropic organizations, and Drew Hoeven, Chairman and Chief Investment Officer of Westport Properties. They discuss how integrating philanthropy into business models can increase community engagement, reputation, employee satisfaction, and customer loyalty. The episode also highlights the tax advantages of charitable giving, the personal rewards of making a difference, and strategies for involving younger generations in giving. Shelley explains the role of community foundations, and Drew shares his family's journey in combining business success with impactful philanthropy.

    KEY TAKEAWAYS

    Strategic Integration of Philanthropy: Shelly Hoss and Drew Hoeven emphasize the transformative impact of integrating philanthropy into business models. This approach not only enhances community engagement but also strengthens reputation, increases employee satisfaction, and fosters customer loyalty.
    Personal Fulfillment and Legacy: The episode underscores the personal rewards of making a difference through philanthropy. Drew Hoeven shares his family's journey, illustrating how businesses can align success with meaningful social impact to leave a lasting legacy.

    Tax Advantages and Strategic Giving: Discussions highlight the strategic advantages of charitable giving, including tax benefits. Understanding these incentives can empower businesses to optimize their philanthropic efforts while achieving financial goals.

    Engaging the Next Generation: Strategies for involving younger generations in philanthropy emerge as a crucial theme. Shelley Hoss explores effective methods for cultivating a philanthropic mindset among the next generation, ensuring continuity and sustainability in charitable endeavors.

    Business Culture and Social Responsibility: Integrating philanthropy into business culture emerges as a strategic imperative. By embedding social responsibility into core values, businesses can achieve both financial success and meaningful societal contributions.

    QUOTES

    "This is all part of a whole integrated approach to life, business, and personal life. And philanthropy can be this amazing bridge to help next-gen leaders bring their business forward, take advantage of all the benefits that you outlined, but also to feel a greater sense of integrity with how they want to be leading their companies."

    "I think a lot of the younger generation, when they're looking to apply for companies, if you don't have that piece, they're going to move on... It's a big part of company culture and ours in particular."

    "Encouraging employees to volunteer their time for community service and organizing group volunteer activities... It attracts candidates who come and say, 'I want to work for your company because of

    • 48 min
    Episode 174 - Talking Time and Priority Management with Time Boss, Andrew Hartman

    Episode 174 - Talking Time and Priority Management with Time Boss, Andrew Hartman

    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 on key priorities.

    Currently serving as a Fractional COO, Andrew also coaches business leaders and high-level professionals on optimizing their time and maintaining their well-being. Their unique approach blends practical strategies with a focus on mental health, empowering others to close their workday stress-free and maintain a deep sense of peace.

    SHOW SUMMARY

    In this episode of Disruptive Successor, host Jonathan Goldhill welcomes Andrew Hartman, founder of Time Boss, to discuss effective time management strategies for leaders. Andrew shares his journey from burnout to creating Time Boss, a system that helps individuals and teams optimize their relationship with time, reduce stress, and enhance productivity. He emphasizes prioritizing tasks, setting boundaries, and establishing habits that support focused work. Key topics include the pitfalls of multitasking, the benefits of the Pomodoro technique, and methods for achieving work-life balance.

    KEY TAKEAWAYS

    Focus on Time Management and Productivity: The episode centers on strategies for effective time management and productivity enhancement.

    Guest Introduction: Andrew Hartman, founder of Time Boss, shares his personal journey from experiencing burnout to developing a system to help business leaders manage their time more efficiently.

    Importance of Establishing Habits: Andrew emphasizes the significance of establishing positive habits to optimize productivity and maintain work-life balance.

    Understanding Capacity: Andrew discusses the importance of understanding one's capacity and avoiding multitasking to enhance productivity.

    Strategic Prioritization: Strategies such as the Pomodoro method and the Pareto principle are highlighted as effective tools for prioritizing tasks and managing stress.

    Clarity and Planning: The episode underscores the importance of clarity, proper planning, and setting boundaries to ensure sustainable success in both personal and professional life.

    QUOTES

    “We all know that what got us here, isn't going to get us there.”

    “You cannot manage all the things in your head at the same time, you have to be able to get them out in front of you into a system where you can see them.”

    “Being thoughtful always of how am I setting up my future self to really have the life that they want? I think it comes down to the decisions we make today.”

    “A one-degree positive course correction can mean lift off. A one-degree negative course correction or a lack of course correction can drive you into the ground over time.”

    Connect and learn more about our guest, Andrew Hartman.
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewhartman/
    Time Boss website: https://www.timeboss.us/

    If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe, review, and share with a friend who would benefit from the message. If you’re interested in picking up a copy of Jonathan Goldhill’s book, Disruptive Successor, go to the website at www.DisruptiveSuccessor.com

    • 34 min
    Episode 173 - The Sales Conversation with Nikki Rausch

    Episode 173 - The Sales Conversation with Nikki Rausch

    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 is joined by Nikki Rauch, CEO of Sales Maven, to discuss transformative sales techniques. Nikki shares her insights on effective communication, neuro-linguistic programming, and the significant difference between 'cat calling' and 'dog calling' techniques in creating curiosity. She breaks down her 'Selling Staircase' framework into five actionable steps: Introduction, Create Curiosity, Discovery, Proposal, and Close. The conversation delves into how Nikki's methods ensure authentic, client-centered sales interactions. Learn how these practices can be adapted for better communication within family businesses and entrepreneurial environments.

    KEY TAKEAWAYS

    Introduction to NLP: Understand the basics of Neuro-Linguistic Programming and its application in improving sales and communication.

    Five Steps of the Selling Staircase: Learn the structured approach to sales that can be adapted to different contexts and industries.

    Importance of First Impressions: Discover strategies for making a powerful and positive first impression in sales conversations.

    Matching and Mirroring Techniques: Explore how adjusting your communication style to match your client's can build rapport and ease conversations.

    Motivational Traits in Sales: Gain insights into recognizing and leveraging towards and away from motivational strategies in your sales approach.

    Practical Applications: Real-world examples and tips on how to apply these techniques in everyday interactions to improve relationships and sales outcomes.

    QUOTES

    "Sales is something you do with another person, not to another person."

    "When you can learn how to communicate in a way that is comfortable for the other person, then conversations get easier."

    "Understanding your client's motivational traits can help you tailor your approach to meet their needs effectively."

    "The selling staircase is a structure that allows your personality and relationship with the client to shine through while following a proven path to success."

    Connect and learn more about our guest, Nikki Rausch.
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolerausch/

    If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe, review, and share with a friend who would benefit from the message. If you’re interested in picking up a copy of Jonathan Goldhill’s book, Disruptive Successor, go to the website at www.DisruptiveSuccessor.com

    • 50 min
    Episode 172 - Navigating Generational Transfer and Entrepreneurship with Steve Hasty

    Episode 172 - Navigating Generational Transfer and Entrepreneurship with Steve Hasty

    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 for sports governance further underscore his multifaceted career.

    SHOW SUMMARY

    In this episode of The Disruptive Successor Show, Jonathan Goldhill features Steve Hasty, a second-generation family business leader and owner of Hasty Awards. Steve shares his journey from university student to business owner, elucidating the challenges and successes involved in transitioning leadership from his parents. He discusses his strategic innovations, including the introduction of technology and significant business expansions. The conversation further explores Steve's involvement in Swimming World Magazine and SmarterPaw, highlighting his entrepreneurial spirit across diverse industries. Listeners gain insights into managing family business dynamics, fostering employee loyalty, and identifying future opportunities in the sports sector.

    KEY TAKEAWAYS

    Generational Transition: Steve's experience highlights the importance of smooth power transitions within family businesses, emphasizing the balance between respecting legacy and embracing innovation.

    Embracing Technology: The integration of technology was crucial in expanding Hasty Awards' product offerings and improving efficiency, demonstrating the necessity of modernization in business growth.

    Crisis Management: Navigating through the COVID-19 pandemic, Steve’s strategy of investing in equipment and modernizing operations underscores the importance of resilience and adaptability in business.

    Leadership and Mentorship: The value of gaining external work experience before joining a family business is evident in how Steve’s children were prepared for leadership roles, ensuring they brought valuable skills and perspectives.

    Diverse Ventures: Steve’s involvement in various ventures, including Swimming World magazine and Smarter Paw, illustrates the benefits of diversifying interests and leveraging expertise across industries.

    QUOTES

    "We were really still all on the same team, whoever was at the head of the company didn’t matter."

    "We took that whole period of time [COVID-19] and invested in our equipment, modernizing, and getting ready for the push we felt would ultimately come."

    "It's tough being a dad and boss, but I wanted my kids to understand the value of working for someone else before joining the family business."

    "Connecting kids with trainers and workout routines via their phones is where I see the biggest opportunity now in the sports sector."

    For more details on Steve’s professional activities, you might want to visit the Hasty Awards website.
    https://www.hastyawards.com/

    If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe, review, and share with a friend who would benefit from the message. If you’re interested in picking up a copy of Jonathan Goldhill’s book, Disruptive Successor, go to the website at www.DisruptiveSuccessor.com

    • 45 min
    Episode 171 - Talking with Jon Bassford, Your Fractional Operations Executive

    Episode 171 - Talking with Jon Bassford, Your Fractional Operations Executive

    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.

    SHOW SUMMARY

    In this episode of Disruptive Successor, host Jonathan Goldhill sits down with Jon Bassford, focusing on operations management for entrepreneurs and family businesses. It covers the importance of getting operations right to create efficiencies and foster growth by moving beyond the do-it-yourself mentality. Bassford shares insights from his journey from law school to becoming a visionary entrepreneur and operations professional. The discussion also delves into the challenges of adopting new technologies and the need for a mentality shift towards open-mindedness and curiosity. Additionally, the concept of letting go for growth and success in business transitions is explored, emphasizing the importance of operational efficiency, compliance, and the role of a fractional COO in achieving scalable success.

    KEY TAKEAWAYS

    Importance of Operational Efficiency: Effective operations are crucial for creating efficiencies and fostering business growth. Moving beyond the do-it-yourself mentality is essential for scaling and success.

    Insights from Jon Bassford's Journey: Bassford shares his unique path from law school to becoming a visionary entrepreneur and operations professional. His experiences highlight the importance of strategic operational management in driving business success.
    Challenges of Adopting New Technologies: The episode delves into the difficulties businesses face when integrating new technologies. A shift towards open-mindedness and curiosity is necessary to overcome these challenges.

    Letting Go for Growth: The discussion emphasizes the concept of letting go for growth and success, especially in business transitions. Operational efficiency and compliance play key roles in this process.

    QUOTES

    “We all know that what got us here isn't going to get us there.”


    “Our proven practices challenge business owners to think differently about their business and how they're running it and quite literally become game changers in our clients' companies.”


    “The concept is you know that the more I do myself, the more money there is going to be for my business and my family.”


    “Letting go is about understanding. It's about the work you put into it and letting the results happen. The more that you try to push and make things happen, the more resistance you get back.”

    Connect and learn more about Jon Bassford.
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonbassford/

    If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe, review, and share with a friend who would benefit from the message. If you’re interested in picking up a copy of Jonathan Goldhill’s book, Disruptive Successor, go to the website at www.DisruptiveSuccessor.com

    • 39 min
    Episode 170 - Thinking Ahead About How to Thrive with Leadership Advisor Steven Wilkinson

    Episode 170 - Thinking Ahead About How to Thrive with Leadership Advisor Steven Wilkinson

    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 to achieve sustainable success.

    SHOW SUMMARY

    In this episode of The Disruptive Successor Show, Jonathan Goldhill features returning guest Steven Wilkinson, exploring strategies for next-generation leaders in family businesses and entrepreneurs aiming to disrupt and advance their industries. Jonathan introduces the podcast's focus on inspiration, advice, and resources for entrepreneurial leaders seeking impact. The episode delves into Steven's background and the ethos behind his company, Good and Prosper Limited, highlighting the synergy between being good in businesses and achieving prosperity. Through discussions around financials, business models, and strategic planning, Steven shares insights into improving a business's margin structure, differentiating pricing strategies, and the essential mindset shifts necessary for success. The conversation also touches upon the importance of preparing for economic cycles and the potential impacts of global and political changes on small and medium-sized businesses. Additionally, Steven emphasizes the significance of mental preparation and risk management ahead of economic downturns, offering practical advice for business positioning during uncertain times.

    KEY TAKEAWAYS

    Ethics vs. Prosperity: Steven challenges the misconception that being good in business and being prosperous are mutually exclusive, emphasizing the correlation between ethical conduct and financial success.

    Financial Mastery: Understanding the intricacies of the business model, including revenue streams, cost structures, and market dynamics, is essential for optimizing profitability and sustainability.

    Specialization and Differentiation: The top 10% of successful businesses excel through disciplined planning, specialization, and constant improvement, setting themselves apart from the competition.

    Owner Manager vs. Owner: Distinguishing between the roles of an owner manager, who predominantly operates as a manager, and an owner who strategically oversees the business, is crucial for effective leadership and long-term growth.
    Pricing Strategy: Rather than mirroring industry norms, businesses should adopt a proactive approach to pricing, recognizing their unique value proposition and avoiding the trap of pricing for failure.


    QUOTES

    "The choice between being good and being prosperous is a false dichotomy. The better you are, the more prosperous you'll become."

    "Success in business hinges on mastering the financial model, understanding market dynamics, and making intentional decisions for growth."

    "The top 10% achieve profitability not by accident but through disciplined planning and specialization."

    "Owner managers often spend the majority of their time as managers, neglecting their role as owners in strategic decision-making."

    "Pricing strategy is a key determinant of profitability; pricing for failure occurs when businesses fail to differentiate and understand their value proposition."

    Connect and learn more about Steven Wilkinson.
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenknwilkinson/

    If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe, review, and share with a friend who would benefit from the message. If you’re interested in picking up a copy of Jonathan Goldhill’s book, Disruptive

    • 56 min

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