Chit Chat with Derek and Cat

Institute for Family-Owned Business / Volk Packaging Corporation
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🎙️ Chit Chat with Derek and Cat is your backstage pass into the world of family businesses—the challenges, the triumphs, and the real stories behind the storefronts. Each episode, Derek and Cat sit down with entrepreneurs and leaders from family-owned companies to talk shop, swap stories, and dig into what makes these businesses thrive across generations. Whether you're part of a family business, dreaming of starting one, or just love a good success story, you'll walk away with insights, laughs, and maybe a few lessons learned the hard way. Tune in and join the chit chat!

Episodes

  1. JAN 28

    Episode 12: The American Dream Reimagined – Succession, Resilience, and Culture

    Quang Nguyen is the part-owner of Fisherman’s Net in Brunswick, Maine, and he shares his journey from Vietnam to building a thriving first-generation family business. He reflects on blending Vietnamese and Maine seafood traditions, balancing multiple ventures, supporting his community, and the importance of boundaries, legacy and succession in family-owned enterprises.    Tune in to this episode as we explore:  (01:50) Founding Fisherman’s Net   (06:06) Work-free family bonding  (08:51) How community support boosts restaurant success  (12:09) Empowering others through business  (14:49) Redefining the American dream  (18:47) Learning English as a Second Language (ESL)  (21:54) Having a legacy or exit strategy  (23:48) Restaurant deals and community support    Links mentioned in this episode:  Quang Nguyen on LinkedIn  Fisherman’s Net    Connect with the show:  www.fambusiness.org  www.volkboxes.com

    29 min

  2. JAN 14

    Episode 11: Passing Down Success: Succession Strategies for Thriving Family Businesses

    Join us for a powerful conversation with Tammy Buss, a seasoned family business advisor and family business survivor, who offers rare insight into the emotional realities of transitioning a family enterprise.    Tammy shares firsthand stories from her own journey while unpacking the complexities of succession, communication breakdowns, and generational change. From governance pitfalls to the value of early, open conversations, this episode reveals why running a family business is never as simple as it seems… and what it truly takes to navigate transition.    Tune in to this episode as we explore:  (00:58) The work Tammy Buss does  (03:49) Self-employed financial services journey  (07:35) Evolving roles in business growth  (11:18) Three-circle model explained  (12:55) Ownership vs active involvement  (18:05) Cousins’ business transition decisions  (22:21) Family business transition strategy  (22:58) Preparing a family business for sale  (28:12) Letting go for better leadership  (31:22) Family business values and vision  (32:52) Fair vs equal in family business  (36:27) Tragedy that shaped a career    Links mentioned in this episode:  ‘Passing Down Your Success’ by Tammy Buss  Tammy Buss on LinkedIn    Connect with the show:  www.fambusiness.org  www.volkboxes.com

    39 min

  3. JAN 7

    Episode 10: Bringing in the Next Gen – DP Industries’ Transition and Lessons Learned

    DP Industries’ co-owner Brent Dugal takes us inside his family’s manufacturing journey – from crafting wooden flatware in the early days to delivering innovative, custom products around the world.    Brent opens up about the realities of building a business with family, the impact of generational leadership, and why communication and a bit of thick skin matter more than you think. He also shares a glimpse into the future with emerging tech like QR codes, along with his own unexpected path from aspiring pilot to business leader.    Tune in to this episode as we explore:  (01:02) Brent’s work at DP Industries  (04:16) Decline of manufacturers' reps  (08:57) QR code on chips  (12:08) Nephew’s career shift to Maine  (14:09) Family dynamics and business relationships  (18:27) Work vs family bonds  (20:55) Prioritize outcomes over details  (26:25) Lessons from flight instructing  (29:42) Get in touch with Brent Dugal    Links mentioned in this episode:  DP Industries  Political Orphanage – Podcast    Connect with the show:  www.fambusiness.org  www.volkboxes.com

    31 min

  4. 12/31/2025

    Episode 9: People, and Pancakes: Inside Waltz and Sons’ Unique Approach to Family Business

    Waltz and Sons aren’t just leaders in service; they’re ahead of the curve with renewable propane and committed to hands-on in-house training for both men and women on their staff. Today we’re joined by Kevin Kopack and Derek Down from Waltz and Sons to hear how a humble basement startup transformed into a thriving residential propane business. Find out why customer service is at the heart of everything they do, and how their team rituals (like daily breakfast together) foster a tight-knit, family-like culture.    Tune in to this episode as we explore:  (01:25) Residential propane business origins  (05:09) Propane as a renewable residential fuel  (08:32) How customer service drives success  (10:57) Comprehensive in-house propane training  (15:05) Connect with Waltz and Sons    Links mentioned in this episode:  Waltz and Sons  Walts and Sons on Facebook    Connect with the show:  www.fambusiness.org  www.volkboxes.com

    17 min

  5. 12/17/2025

    Episode 8: Adapting to Change: AI, Family Firms, and Emotional Wealth Management with Fred Williams

    Fred Williams is the Managing Director at Old Port Advisors, and he joins Chit Chat to unpack the origins of Old Port Advisors, sharing how his firm grew from the brokerage industry in the '70s to a fiduciary wealth management and consulting company serving families, endowments, and retirement plans nationwide. Discover Fred’s candid insights into the emotional side of finance, the challenges and joys of working with family enterprises, and how collaboration and personalized problem-solving have set Old Port Advisors apart in a competitive landscape. Tune in to this episode as we explore: (01:27) Fred’s work at Old Port Advisors (05:13) Wine and nine golfing (08:05) Competitive industry and fiduciary focus (12:12) Embracing uncertainty as normal (16:10) Maine's evolving business landscape (18:44) Sales cycle variability across industries (21:25) AI: balancing innovation and limitations (24:35) Evolving through art and emotion (27:27) Global perspectives in business monitoring Links mentioned in this episode: Old Port Advisors Fed Williams on LinkedIn Connect with the show: www.fambusiness.org www.volkboxes.com

    31 min

  6. 12/05/2025

    Episode 7: Reinventing Tradition: How Hussey Seating Thrives Across Eight Generations

    Rich Hussey is the sixth-generation leader of Hussey Seating – a Maine company that’s been thriving since 1835 and spans eight generations. Rich gives us an inside look at the evolution of his family’s company, from its origins making plows and fire escapes to becoming a leader in spectator seating for venues ranging from school gymnasiums to NFL stadiums. He shares the story of Hussey Seating’s commitment to innovation, the challenges and triumphs of navigating generational transitions, and the pivotal steps they’ve taken. Tune in to this episode as we explore: (05:16) Family business evolution and growth (06:44) Structured governance through objectivity (11:11) Family business education and legacy (16:38) Successful leadership transition insights (18:33) Family governance and leadership transition (20:38) Board and leadership role separation (26:37) Preparing next generation leaders (31:01) Family business governance insights (36:44) Employees' word usage pool (40:42) Gartner's impact on HR research Links mentioned in this episode: Hussey Seating Rich Hussey on LinkedIn Gartner Research Connect with the show: www.fambusiness.org www.volkboxes.com

    47 min

  7. 09/25/2025

    Episode 6: Overflowing Abundance: How One Owner Balances Business and Giving Back with Eddie Woodin

    Welcome to another episode of Chit Chat with Derek and Cat! Today, we sit down with Eddie Woodin, a dynamic family business owner, passionate philanthropist and newly published author of ‘Overflowing Abundance’. Eddie opens up about leading his manufacturing company through tough times, embracing resilience and how his faith inspired his generous approach to business and life. The conversation also delves into Eddie’s charitable initiatives, from supporting seniors and their pets to championing environmental causes, alongside behind-the-scenes stories from running a multi-generational business. Whether you love family business tales, entrepreneurial insights, or simply a dose of inspiration, this episode has something for you.  Tune in to this episode as we explore: (05:23) Career transition to entrepreneurship (07:54) Economic indicators in packaging shift (12:27) Finding god: a personal journey (13:17) Embrace and share your gifts (18:06) Polyglot immigrant inspires community (20:13) Old teammates launch publishing platform (26:10) Autism causes and personal perspective (27:41) Priceless bird art dilemma (32:33) Eddie Wooden's recognition journey Links mentioned in this episode: Chasing the Rabbit – Book Eddie Woodin’s Website Overflowing Abundance – Book Connect with the Chit Chat: www.fambusiness.org www.volkboxes.com

    36 min

  8. 07/22/2025

    Episode 5: Dig into family legacy with Larry Grondin, R.J. Gronin & Sons 🚜👷‍♂️

    In this video podcast episode, we sit down with Larry Grondin, 3rd-generation (now 4th!) leader of RJ Grondin & Sons, a Maine-based powerhouse in heavy civil construction. 🛣️🏗️ From dairy farming roots to multimillion-dollar site development projects, Larry shares how the business has evolved across generations — with 💪 strong family values, 💡 intentional succession planning, and 📈 strategic growth. We dig into:✨ Lessons learned from 65+ years of family business👨‍👩‍👦 Navigating succession and shareholder agreements🚧 The challenges of growing from 5 to 2 family partners🌎 Giving back to the community — youth sports, boards, and beyond🛠️ Multi-generational employees & the power of culture📊 Building for the next 10 years with vision and strategy If you're in a family business — or building a legacy of your own — this episode is packed with gold 🏆 #FamilyBusiness #MaineStrong #ConstructionLife #LegacyBuilding #ChitChatWithDerekAndCat Show notes: Visit www.fambusiness.org https://volkboxes.com

    34 min

  9. 06/03/2025

    Episode 4: Rooted in Tradition with Matt McAdam of McDougal Orchards

    🍎 Episode 4: Rooted in Tradition with Matt McAdam of McDougal Orchards In this debut episode of Chit Chat with Derek and Cat, we visit the rolling hills of Southern Maine to talk with Matt McAdam, seventh-generation owner and orchard manager of McDougal Orchards—a family farm that’s been thriving for nearly eight generations. Matt shares the story behind his family's deep agricultural roots, what it means to run a modern-day pick-your-own orchard, and how McDougal Orchards invites families to slow down, reconnect with nature, and appreciate the beauty of small-scale farming in Springvale, Maine. 🌳 From high-quality fruit production to creating low-impact, meaningful experiences for visitors, this episode celebrates the heart and hard work of Maine’s farming heritage. 🎙️ Meet Your Hosts: Catherine Wygant Fossett is the Executive Director of the Institute for Family-Owned Business (IFOB), a nonprofit dedicated to supporting and empowering family businesses across Maine. With years of experience guiding multigenerational enterprises, Cat brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep passion for family business dynamics to the conversation. Derek Volk is the CEO of Volk Packaging Corporation, a third-generation, family-owned corrugated box manufacturer based in Biddeford, Maine. Under Derek's leadership, the company has expanded its services and maintained a strong commitment to community and employee well-being. Derek also advocates for inclusive hiring practices, inspired by his personal experiences as a parent. Together, Cat and Derek bring heart, humor, and deep curiosity to every chat—starting with this apple-sweet kickoff to the series. Show notes: Visit www.fambusiness.org https://volkboxes.com

    34 min

  10. 05/20/2025

    Episode 3: Forecasting the Future: Dr. John Austin on Strategic Foresight in Business

    On this enlightening episode of Chit Chat with Derek & Cat, we sit down with Dr. John Austin—Dean of the Honors College at the University of New England and a partner at Dynamic Foresight. Dr. Austin is renowned for his expertise in human performance and leadership, and he brings a wealth of knowledge on how businesses can navigate uncertainty through strategic foresight. We delve into the distinction between forecasting and foresight, exploring how organizations can move beyond reactive change management to proactive future planning. Dr. Austin shares insights on building resilience, embracing uncertainty, and integrating foresight into organizational strategy to better prepare for what's ahead. Whether you're leading a family business or part of a larger organization, this conversation offers valuable perspectives on anticipating change and positioning your business for long-term success. Show notes: Visit www.fambusiness.org https://volkboxes.com

    22 min

  11. 05/05/2025

    Episode 2: Leading with Legacy: Stacy Stitham on Guiding Family Businesses Through Legal Landscapes

    In this episode of Chit Chat with Derek & Cat, we sit down with Stacy Stitham, Managing Partner at Brann & Isaacson ⚖️, to explore the intersection of law and family business. As a fifth-generation Maine attorney, Stacy shares her journey from growing up in a small-town law practice to leading a nationally recognized firm. We dive into the unique legal challenges that family-owned businesses face—from succession planning to protecting intellectual property 💼. Stacy offers practical insights on how Brann & Isaacson supports these enterprises, ensuring they thrive across generations. Her experience in civil and commercial litigation, as well as leadership roles in organizations like the Maine State Bar Association, brings valuable perspective to the evolving family business landscape. 🎙️ Tune in to hear Stacy’s inspiring story of leadership, legacy, and legal savvy—and walk away with tools to help your family business flourish. Show notes: Visit www.fambusiness.org https://volkboxes.com

    34 min

  12. 05/04/2025

    Episode 1: Meet Derek and Cat — Why Family Business, Why Now?

    In this special kickoff episode of Chit Chat with Derek and Cat, your hosts—Catherine Wygant Fossett and Derek Volk—turn the mic on each other to share their own family business journeys, the inspiration behind the podcast, and what you can expect from future episodes. Catherine, Executive Director of the Institute for Family-Owned Business (IFOB), and Derek, CEO of Volk Packaging Corporation, have worked with and within family businesses for decades. Now, they're teaming up to explore the stories behind Maine’s most fascinating family-run companies. Together, they chat about: Why family businesses are the backbone of our economy—making up over 80% of businesses nationwide The unique dynamics, values, and legacy that make family-run companies so resilient The joys and challenges of working with loved ones How businesses navigate succession, growth, and generational change And what listeners can learn from real families building real businesses Whether you’re in a family business, love small business stories, or just enjoy authentic conversations, this episode sets the stage for a podcast full of insight, inspiration, and a whole lot of heart. 🎙️ Real conversations. Real families. Real business. Show notes: Visit www.fambusiness.org https://volkboxes.com

    29 min
  • 12 Episodes

About

🎙️ Chit Chat with Derek and Cat is your backstage pass into the world of family businesses—the challenges, the triumphs, and the real stories behind the storefronts. Each episode, Derek and Cat sit down with entrepreneurs and leaders from family-owned companies to talk shop, swap stories, and dig into what makes these businesses thrive across generations. Whether you're part of a family business, dreaming of starting one, or just love a good success story, you'll walk away with insights, laughs, and maybe a few lessons learned the hard way. Tune in and join the chit chat!

Information

  • Creator
    Institute for Family-Owned Business / Volk Packaging Corporation
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    12
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Institute for Family-Owned Business / Volk Packaging Corporation
  • Show Website
    Chit Chat with Derek and Cat