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.

Kristi Smith

Hi there, thank you Dan and Canvas Rebel for the opportunity to chat with you and share a little bit about my business. I have strong feelings about family business. I think in principal a family business can be a wonderful thing, however it has it’s challenges. If everyone is not on the same page for the growth and changes in the business this can create a lot of internal struggle. I come from a family business, my family is in the flooring business and I grew up around new home construction because of that. In order to avoid some of the pressures of the family business and to find my own path and passion, it was best for me to take some of what I learned in the family business and branch out on my own. Read more>>

Jazmone Shannon

My desire for Sugar’d is for it to be a successful family ran business. Growing up, I’ve witnessed first hand what family businesses can blossom into. From growing up around the Lewis Family of Lewis and Wright Funeral Home, sitting inside of Monique’s Homestyle Kitchen, and even working at the old Prince’s Hot Chicken until 4 am, I’ve had a blueprint of knowing that family can keep businesses structured. Just seeing how different family members strengths can keep the fluidity of the business going has always been an eye opener for me to understand that I do not have to do it all by myself. Read more>>

Valentina Gamburd

Family businesses can be both a source of great satisfaction and unique challenges. I have firsthand experience with this, as I work for Kalmateh, a business co-owned with my mother and sister, Mariana and Luli. What works well in a family business is the shared passion and motivation for a common goal. The trust and bond within a family can drive a deep sense of commitment, as everyone involved genuinely cares about the idea and success of the business. In our specific case, one of the most significant advantages is our dedication to our brand because it’s not just a business, but also a tradition deep-rooted in our culture. This mutual passion and understanding can lead to remarkable growth of the business. However, working with family can also present some challenges. Read more>>

George Davis

One rule of industry that you always hear is, “Never do business with family.” “You can’t work with family.” I’d like to think that that me and Ja’Gared Davis (3X CFL Allstar and 2x Grey Cup Champion) have changed that narrative. We’ve been partners for over 5 years and somehow we’ve made it work. I think for one we’ve managed a balance. Yin/Yang type vibe. One big thing is communication. The second is trust. I seldom make any decisions without conferring with him. We’re similar like that. Sometimes there are those one offs where one or the other isn’t available, but that trust is there that a solid decision is made. Like I said yin and yang. You have to understand how each other’s minds work. And always know the overall goal of your business model and plan. Read more>>

Kelly Larson

I’m so lucky to be in a family business and can only hope that my daughter or nieces and nephews would like to take over someday. We have learned so many lessons. First, everyone needs a job to be responsible for – that they own. It’s important to have clearly defined areas so that you have some autonomy. When I first came back to work for my parents, we were all in charge of everything and that really doesn’t work! Second, you can never have too much communication! It’s important to know how everything works together. As roles transition, everyone needs to be comfortable and you have to talk your way through those things. My parents and I are at the point where they are transitioning more of their jobs to me and I try to be grateful for all of the advice that they still want to give. Read more>>

Lindsey Zovko
Set featured image

As a mom, business owner, and wife to a business owner, I can say that having family businesses is a huge blessing in that we ultimately get to make our own schedules and decide how our days are spent. That being said, because we’re passionate about our businesses, it can sometimes feel like we work 24 hour days, so finding balance can be tough. Read more>>