Certainly. Here's a refreshed episode title and updated show notes that reflect the focus on communication while staying true to the content and tone of The Path:

"The Lost Art of Listening: Mindful Communication in a Noisy World"

In this re-released episode of The Family Business Podcast, we explore how mindfulness can radically improve the way we communicate — at home, at work, and within our families.

Drawing on the teachings of the Buddha and the foundational principles of The Path, Martin Stepek introduces two practical and transformative skills: mindful listening and conscious breathing. These are not abstract ideas — they are everyday tools that can prevent unnecessary conflict, deepen trust, and help us respond with thoughtfulness rather than react out of habit.

Martin begins by unpacking one of the most overlooked aspects of communication: the tendency to only half-listen. He explains how we often prepare our responses while someone else is still speaking — which means we miss their meaning entirely. With mindfulness, we can train ourselves to truly listen, to pause, and to respond with clarity and care.

We also look at the role of the breath, not just as a tool for relaxation, but as a reliable way to regulate emotion in real time. Whether it’s irritation in a meeting or tension at home, using the breath as a mental reset can prevent needless arguments and foster wiser, calmer exchanges.

Together, these two skills form the basis of what the Buddhist tradition calls “Right Speech”, communication that is considered, kind, and constructive. In a world of fast replies and constant distraction, they’re more important than ever.

If you're interested in taking these ideas further, explore The Path — our practical mindfulness programme designed specifically for those working in or with family-owned businesses.

Find out more about The Path here: https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath/

Right Intention: Skilful Thinking for a Better Life

In this episode, we take a closer look at one of the eight elements of the Eightfold Path — Right Intentions, sometimes called Right Thoughts.

The word “Right” here does not mean morally superior or correct in a rigid sense. It is better understood as skilful or wise. This matters because the quality of our thoughts shapes the quality of our lives.

Martin and I explore how our automatic thinking often leads to poor decisions, unnecessary stress, and reactive behaviour. By learning to notice and guide our thoughts more skilfully, we can reduce suffering and increase our clarity. This is not about controlling every thought, but about cultivating an approach to thinking that is more deliberate, more compassionate, and more constructive.

To learn more about The Path, our unique programme for individuals and families in business, visit:

https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath/

If you would like to get in touch, you can email me at russ@familybusinesspartnership.com

Mentioned in this episode:

The Path

If you would like to find out more about the Guided and Self-Guided versions of The Path, please head to https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath

In this look at the Four Noble Truths, we turn to the most practical element — the path forward.

The Fourth Noble Truth teaches that if we want to reduce suffering and build a more peaceful life, we need to develop certain skills. These are not abstract ideas, but habits of mind and behaviour that can be cultivated through deliberate effort. This is what the Buddha’s Eightfold Path offers.

Each part of the Eightfold Path begins with the word “Right.” Here, “Right” is best understood as skilful or wise — not moralistic or correct in an absolute sense. These eight areas are:

• Right Understanding
• Right Intentions or Thought
• Right Speech or Communication
• Right Actions
• Right Livelihood
• Right Effort
• Right Mindfulness
• Right Concentration or Focus

Together, they offer a practical framework for living with greater awareness, integrity and clarity — qualities that matter just as much in business and family life as they do in personal reflection.

To learn more about The Path, our unique programme for individuals and families in business, visit:

https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath/

If you would like to speak with us or ask any questions, feel free to email me at russ@familybusinesspartnership.com

Mentioned in this episode:

The Path

If you would like to find out more about the Guided and Self-Guided versions of The Path, please head to https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath

The Third Noble Truth: The End of Suffering

In this episode, we continue our series on the Four Noble Truths by exploring the Third — the truth that suffering can end.

The Buddha taught that while life involves dissatisfaction and struggle, it does not have to stay that way. When we learn to understand and reduce the “thirsts” — the cravings and aversions that drive our reactions — we begin to create space for peace of mind. This is not about denying life’s challenges, but about changing how we relate to them.

Martin and I talk about how we can all develop simple but powerful skills that help us suffer less, even in difficult moments. These teachings are not abstract ideas, but practical tools for daily life — at home, at work, and in our relationships.

To learn more about The Path, our unique programme for individuals and families in business, visit:

https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath/

If you have any questions or would like to speak with us directly, you can email me at russ@familybusinesspartnership.com

Mentioned in this episode:

The Path

If you would like to find out more about the Guided and Self-Guided versions of The Path, please head to https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath

The Second Noble Truth: The Cause of Suffering

This episode continues our exploration of the Buddha’s core teachings, looking closely at the Second Noble Truth. While the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path are ancient concepts, they remain powerful tools for understanding modern life.

The Second Noble Truth teaches that much of our dissatisfaction and suffering comes not just from what happens to us, but from how our minds respond. When life doesn’t go the way we hoped, or when we lose something we value, the mind reacts. The Buddha called these reactions “thirsts” — our cravings for things to be different from how they are.

Together, Martin and I discuss how this understanding can help us take a different view of challenges and setbacks. Rather than blaming ourselves or others, we can begin to notice our inner reactions more clearly. That awareness gives us real choice.

To learn more about The Path, our unique programme for individuals and families in business, visit:

https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath/

If you would like to get in touch, you can email me at russ@familybusinesspartnership.com

Mentioned in this episode:

The Path

If you would like to find out more about the Guided and Self-Guided versions of The Path, please head to https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath

The Four Noble Truths: Understanding the First Step

In this episode, Martin and I begin our exploration of one of the most enduring teachings in mindfulness and Buddhism: The Four Noble Truths. These are not abstract religious ideas, but practical insights into how we might live with greater awareness and less unnecessary suffering.

We start with the First Noble Truth. This teaches that life, by its nature, includes dissatisfaction, frustration and, at times, suffering. At first glance, that might not sound too uplifting. But as we explore it together, you’ll see why recognising this truth is actually the beginning of something hopeful and empowering.

This conversation offers a fresh way to think about everyday challenges, whether at home, at work or within yourself.

To learn more about The Path, our unique programme for individuals and families in business, visit:

https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath/

If you have questions or would like to connect, you can email me directly at russ@familybusinesspartnership.com

Mentioned in this episode:

The Path

If you would like to find out more about the Guided and Self-Guided versions of The Path, please head to https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath

Summary

In this episode of the Family Business Podcast, Russ Haworth, Martin Stepek, and Alec Broadhurst discuss the intersection of mindfulness and family business dynamics.

They explore personal journeys into mindfulness, the Four Noble Truths, and the Eightfold Path, emphasizing the importance of understanding emotional challenges within family businesses. The conversation highlights the value of mindfulness as a tool for improving family relationships and decision-making processes in business contexts.

The hosts also introduce a new program, The Path, designed to help families navigate the complexities of working together.

Takeaways

• Mindfulness can significantly improve family business dynamics.
• The Four Noble Truths provide a framework for understanding suffering in life.
• Practicing mindfulness is a lifelong journey that requires effort.
• Effective communication is crucial in family businesses.
• Understanding emotional challenges can lead to better decision-making.
• Mindfulness helps in recognising and managing stress.
• The Eightfold Path offers practical guidance for living mindfully.
• Family businesses often face unique challenges that mindfulness can help address.
• Personal growth through mindfulness can enhance family relationships.
• The Path program aims to provide tools for navigating family business complexities.

Find out more about The Path by heading to https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath

Summary

In this episode of the Family Business Podcast, Russ Haworth speaks with Annamaria Koerling, founding partner of Delfin Private Office, about the evolving landscape of family offices. They discuss the importance of governance, the unique challenges of succession planning, and the role of philanthropy in fostering family cohesion. Annamaria emphasises the need for tailored governance structures that reflect each family's values and purpose, and the significance of deliberate practice in maintaining open communication. The conversation also highlights the benefits of involving external advisors to navigate complex family dynamics and ensure effective decision-making.

Takeaways

Family offices provide comprehensive services to manage wealth across generations.

Governance structures are critical for the success of family offices.

Each family office is unique, requiring tailored governance solutions.

Succession planning is a major concern for family offices.

Philanthropy can enhance family cohesion and engagement.

Deliberate practice in family conversations is essential for success.

External advisors can provide valuable perspectives and support.

Effective communication of values and purpose is crucial for families.

Families should consider the impact of relocation on their operations.

Creating a family bank can promote entrepreneurial spirit among family members.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Family Offices

03:03 The Importance of Governance in Family Offices

06:00 Tailoring Governance to Family Uniqueness

09:04 Critical Governance Considerations for Family Offices

12:01 Impact of Relocation on Family Office Operations

15:11 Succession Planning and Next Generation Involvement

17:58 Promoting Entrepreneurial Spirit in the Next Generation

20:51 The Role of Philanthropy in Family Cohesion

25:00 Deliberate Practice in Family Conversations

27:53 The Value of External Advisors in Family Governance

Mentioned in this episode:

The Path

If you would like to find out more about the Guided and Self-Guided versions of The Path, please head to https://familybusinesspartnership.com/thepath