The Promise and Peril of Family Financial Help
Financial assistance from family members is a blessing for many in agriculture, but mixing money and family in business can be a source of severe conflict. When contemplating how to help a family...
Conflict Resolution and Communication in Family Business
Improve Communication in your Family Business
April 10, 2025
On almost every family farm or ranch I know, a recurring frustration revolves aroun communication. Despite a rich history, people frequently miscommunicate or misunderstand one another.
How to Prepare for the End of Your Family Business
November 10, 2024
Family companies rarely stay the same over time. For different reasons, the chances are that somewhere in your future, your business will experience an ending, split or dissolution. Here is how you...
In the Shadow of Guilt
June 10, 2024
Coming back to the business, carrying on the business, or leading the business are all areas where a feeling of guilt can overwhelm someone for choosing the "wrong" option.
Unlock the Power of Emotions in your Family and Business
May 10, 2024
Recognizing, understanding, labeling, expressing and regulating emotions can improve your mental health as well as your relationships, physical health, and performance in your family business.
Do You Really Know Your Family Members?
March 10, 2024
One of the great ironies in family businesses is that we often struggle to have good relationships with those we are closest to: our family members we work with every day.
Blessings for the Family Business
December 23, 2023
The act of offering a blessing reminds us we are part of a larger story, that our time together is important, that our presence with one another is meaningful. These 24 Blessings for the Family...
Forgiveness is Hard Work in the Family Business
October 10, 2023
At some point in the family business, you will hurt, and be hurt by, those you love. Forgiveness, then, is a difficult but necessary element of being in business together.
Addiction in the Family Business
August 10, 2023
Every farmer or rancher can point to a neighbor, friend or even their own family to see the disastrous effects of substance abuse and addiction.
Cut Off From Your Kids
September 18, 2022
Rejection from the person whose opinion and love you care the most about ... makes the certainties of life feel precarious and unraveled.