Families are powerful systems, and sometimes, they’re anxiety‑creating machines. In this episode of Family Business Matters, host Cooper Biersach sits down with therapist and bestselling author Dr. Kathleen Smith

to explore how Bowen Family Systems Theory can transform the way we understand ourselves, our families, and our roles in family enterprises.

Kathleen breaks down how anxiety moves through a family, why we repeat automatic patterns, and how even small shifts in our behavior can change long‑standing dynamics. Together, Cooper and Kathleen discuss real-world examples, including a multigenerational family business scenario, to illustrate how concepts like triangles and differentiation show up in everyday work and life.

Listeners will walk away with:

• A clear, conversational introduction to Bowen Theory
• Practical ways to observe and interrupt reactivity
• First steps for applying these ideas in your family or family enterprise

Whether you’re leading a family business, navigating complex relationships, or simply curious about how families operate, this episode offers tools to help you respond thoughtfully rather than react automatically. Books

Everything Isn’t Terrible

True to You

Family Enterpise Center Links

The Family Enterprise Center

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In this episode of Family Business Matters, host Chris Maslin sits down with father–daughter duo Jamie McLawhorn and Bess McLawhorn of Marsh Properties for a candid conversation on what it really takes to prepare the rising generation for leadership in a family enterprise.

Together, they share their personal journeys, the intentional steps their family has taken to develop next‑gen talent, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. From growing up around the family business to navigating formal development structures, the McLawhorns offer practical wisdom, honest reflections, and stories that bring their experience to life.

Listeners will walk away with insights on:

• Why rising generation development matters now more than ever
• The long‑term outcomes families should aim for
• Structures and practices that reduce conflict and create clarity
• What they wish they’d done differently, and what’s working well today

Whether you're part of a multigenerational family business or supporting one, this conversation invites you to reflect on your own family's learning journey and consider one meaningful step you can take forward.

Tune in, learn alongside our community, and take your next step toward strengthening your family enterprise.

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This episode of Family Business Matters dives into the role boundaries play in creating healthier relationships and stronger family enterprises. With host Cooper Biersach, our guest, Melissa Mitchell-Blitch, author and family dynamics expert, shares why boundaries are often misunderstood, why they matter, and how they can transform the way we lead and live. Through real-world examples and practical strategies, you’ll learn how boundaries clarify roles, reduce conflict, and help individuals and organizations thrive. Expect actionable insights you can apply immediately to navigate complexity with confidence.

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In the Company of Family: How to Thrive When Business is Personal

Cooper Biersach

Melissa Mitchell-Blitch