For some, family businesses mean spending more quality time with their families, financial freedom and so much more while for others it feels like a prison sentence. There are so many pros and cons, positives and negatives and so we wanted to create a space for folks who have experiences with family businesses to discuss the pros and cons.

Melissa Mccann

I love that I have created a business that I might one day pass to one of my kids. Owning my own business has been great that is gives me more freedom with my family. We are able to take vacations yearly to our favorite lake and spend weeks there at a time because I can work from anywhere. Read more>>

Sherry Scott

Wow–I love this question! We are leaning into our 2nd year of business and it has been amazing. My daughter, Lauren, is 9 and will soon be 10 years old on January 6, 2024. Most importantly, it has been a pleasure teaching her concepts and business practices that she can employ in every area of her life. She’s still eager to learn and lead in all aspects of candle making. Read more>>

Andrew Rosado

Local, family businesses are the heart beat of our communities. They are what define our local culture – from flavors to favorite traditions. Family-owned businesses are usually not in it to get rich. Instead, they are looking to make their local communities a better place to live, which is what ultimately what drove us to take the plunge four years ago. Read more>>

Jeanette Gaistman

Our Green Affair is the definition of a family business. Our dad crunches our numbers and helps with the back end of things, our mom collaborates with Jackie and I on recipe development and R&D to make your mouth water, and Jackie and I to put it simply run the day to day operations of our Pacific Beach and Hillcrest. On top of everything we all used to live together, that is until Jackie got married and moved out, I know, messed up. Read more>>

Chie Davis

My family has been at the center of my business since its inception. My blog, Mommafied started as a personal blog, documenting my journey as a 40-year-old new mom of two, juggling new mom life, work, helping my children navigate allergies, and a cross country move. It became a calming and creative way for me to connect with other moms. Read more>>

Kathy Mc Guinness

Like most things in life, we learn as we go. Surprisingly, I kickstarted the brand, not Freddy, even though he’s the artist. While he was content painting just for his own enjoyment, I recognized his immense talent and saw the potential to take it further. Read more>>

Kelly Lancarte

Joe T. Garcia’s is more than just a restaurant; it’s a testament to the enduring strength of my family, Mexican heritage, and the legacy that’s been lovingly passed down through generations. It all began with my great-grandmother Mamasuez’s brave journey from Michoacán, Mexico, to Fort Worth in 1911. She carried a tireless work ethic and a profound love for her family, which would ultimately shape the destiny of Joe T.’s. Read more>>

Jodi & Sam Krantz

Family is the core of Ohio Wood and Iron Works! Our shop began as a father-daughter operation, and has expanded to a point where everyone in our family is involved. We have always been a close family, and therefore we approach business with the same household values that have grown strong over the years. Read more>>