Do you run or work for a family business? If so, we’d love to hear from you for our family business series. In this series, you’ll find insights, stories and a discussion of the pros and cons of family businesses.

Gary Faust

Running a family business is an emotionally demanding, albeit very rewarding way to make a living. It’s a unique path to take. A special path that is not for everyone. I would not trade it for anything in the world and I mean that whole-heartedly. I run a media production company with my mother who drives me absolutely fucking nuts. We’re opposites. Read more>>

Jason Hall

I’ve worked and lived with my husband for close to 20 years. We’ve created and run five small businesses together in different parts of the country. Doing so can be tricky, but happiness all lies in balance and focus. Work/life balance is so important particularly in the beginnings – you want to establish a healthy foundation on which to grow Read more>>

Chelsey Stevensen

My thoughts on a family business boy where do I start? Not only do I own my own business but I come from a family business. My dad actually opened up a small cafe here in my hometown almost 10 years ago here… At which one point I worked for him almost full time and then I did my hairstyling on the side. It’s tough. You know everyone has this huge view on being self employed as being so awesome and Convenient When In reality the opposite In some ways. Read more>>

Dana Ahrenberg

Family businesses in my opinion are most unique! I like believe it’s a more supportive environment. We’re ever changing & evolving as we grow as people & as a business. There is more creativity presented & respected. Coworkers have to trust & rely on each other in order to be successful – which makes it, at times, a personal environment. Read more>>

Dolly Lopez

I wanted to share with you my thoughts on family businesses and some of the insights I have gained from my own experiences and observations. Family businesses have their unique set of advantages and challenges. On the one hand, working together as a family can foster strong bonds, trust, and a shared sense of purpose. Read more>>

Melanie Cihlar

Rolling Forks Vineyards was co-founded by my husband Joe and me. We both were born into farming families and had been living in the Twin Cities metro area when we met. We knew that someday we wanted to get back to the more rural parts of the state when fate would have it and Joe’s boyhood dream farm went up for sale shortly after we were engaged. In order to be farmers on a small amount of acres, we had to choose a specialty crop to make it all cashflow. Read more>>

Marie Pechkam

From the start of Unearth Malee, my kids have always been involved in my business. Whether it be onlookers, coming to my studio to do their homework, as I fill orders to them helping out at special events, they are present. Having family involved has been beyond rewarding, as I am able to spend time with my kids while doing something I love. Read more>>