In this episode of Family Business Matters, host Cooper Biersach sits down with Amy Renkert-Thomas, a lawyer, educator, and former president of her family’s fifth-generation manufacturing business. Amy brings decades of experience in family enterprise governance and ownership to the conversation.

Together, they explore what governance really means, why it matters for family businesses, and how it evolves across generations.

Listeners will learn:

• • How family business governance differs from public company governance.
  • Why shared purpose and vision are essential for long-term success.
  • The role of owners and boards in creating clarity and alignment.
  • Practical steps for building governance structures that fit your family enterprise.

Whether you’re a founder wondering if governance is worth the effort or a next-generation leader preparing for the future, this episode offers actionable insights to help your family business thrive.

Featured Notes:

Engaged Ownership by Amy-Renkert Thomas

Building a Successful Family Business Board The Family Enterprise Center

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In this special two-guest episode, Lauren Willets Director of UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School’s The Family Enterprise Center, sits down with brothers Frankie Kelly IV (UNC BSBA ’14, UNC MAC '15)

and Stephen Kelly (UNC BSBA '17) to reminisce about their Carolina days as Family Enterprise students and lacrosse champions. They share candid insights on their early career paths, the decision to return to their family business, and the realities of navigating family dynamics. Listeners will enjoy hearing how these two brothers found their way back to Kelly Benefits—and what they’ve learned along the journey.

In this episode of Family Business Matters, host Amelia Renkert-Thomas

welcomes Nikin Shah, founding partner at Front Porch Venture Partners. Nikin shares his personal journey of growing up around his family’s business, co-leading it with his brother, and ultimately making the decision to sell.

Together, they explore the emotional, strategic, and financial dimensions of selling a family business — challenging the notion that selling equals failure. Nikin offers insights into how families can redeploy their capital post-sale and how the experience shaped his own path forward.

Whether you're a family business owner, advisor, or student of enterprise governance, this conversation offers valuable lessons on leadership, legacy, and letting go. Get Connected