In this special replay episode, Elizabeth Ledoux and Andrea Carpenter join Family Business Magazine for a live webinar on designing a win-win-win handoff, a transition where the transitioner, the successor, and the business itself all get what matters most to them. Elizabeth and Andrea introduce two of TTS's core tools, the Transition Compass (the why, what, who, when, how, and how much) and the Objectives Matrix, and explain why assumptions, not conflict, are usually what derail a family transition.

Then Laurie and Brad Irish-Jones of Irish Family Companies, a fourth-generation family business founded in 1932, join to share their own story. Laurie, the former CEO, describes what it felt like to be one of five sisters running the business together in their fifties with no clear timeline for who was leaving when. Brad, from the next generation, describes the frustration of "deal fatigue" and what it took for sixteen grandchildren across the family to find their footing. Together they discuss what held the family together through the harder conversations, what it actually felt like to let go, and what they would tell any family standing where they once stood.

Zach Needles of Family Business Magazine moderates an extended audience Q&A covering board governance, sibling disagreement over who wants in, and how often a transition plan should be revisited once it's built.

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and The Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap":

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Our Sister Show Your Next Gen Friend Hosted by Andrea Carpenter:

Your Next Gen Friend is for the next generation stepping into leadership in family and private businesses. If you're a successor figuring out your path, this show is for you.

Website: https://yournextgenfriend.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yournextgenfriend/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@yournextgenfriend

Andrea on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreakcarpenter/

Spotify: https://yournextgenfriend.com/open-spotify

Apple Podcasts: https://yournextgenfriend.com/apple-podcast

In this episode, Elizabeth Ledoux talks with Mike Wettlaufer, a retired Navy rear admiral and lifelong entrepreneur, about leading people through change. Across 38 years and thousands of people, Mike learned that a straight line from A to B is a fantasy. You hope you land somewhere near where you aimed, but the value was never the plan itself. It lives in the planning: the relationships you build, the options you explore, and the readiness to pivot when something you never saw coming arrives.

Mike and Elizabeth get into the human side of transition, from why communication is the hardest work a leader does to how you win the middle of a room instead of exhausting yourself on the people who will never come along. Mike maps his own framework of drones, renters, and owners directly onto Elizabeth's Transition 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0, and he makes the case that ownership is something you build in a successor over time, not something you hand them on day one. If you are a business owner thinking about bringing successors into the process, this conversation is a practical look at how to start early and how to do it well.

Key takeaways from this episode:

• The plan is never the point. The planning is. A straight line from A to B does not happen, and the real value lives in the process, the relationships, and staying ready to pivot when something you never planned for shows up.
• Communication is the hardest work a leader does. People take in information differently, and when someone "doesn't understand," it usually means you have not yet found the way to reach them.
• You do not need the whole room. Roughly twenty percent will follow you because you are the boss, twenty percent never will, and the real work is the middle sixty percent. You only need momentum from about a third of them to start moving.
• Sudden change creates drones. When a decision lands with no warning, people resist it like a threat. Warm the room early so they build antibodies instead of fighting the decision.
• Ownership is built, not handed over. You create owners by giving successors real, low-stakes work early and letting them own the result, not by putting them in the C-suite on day one. Coach instead of correct, and let the honest assessment come from them.
• Without a debrief, there is no learning. Plan, prepare, and execute, then sit down and debrief. That is where the plan gets adjusted and where people actually grow.
• Start early enough that leaving is not too soon. Owners often step back before their successors are ready. Beginning the process years earlier lets you find the gaps at the five-year mark and still have time to pivot.

Connect with Mike Wettlaufer on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wettlauferm/

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and The Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap":

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Our Sister Show Your Next Gen Friend Hosted by Andrea Carpenter:

Your Next Gen Friend is for the next generation stepping into leadership in family and private businesses. If you're a successor figuring out your path, this show is for you.

Website: https://yournextgenfriend.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yournextgenfriend/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@yournextgenfriend

Andrea on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreakcarpenter/

Spotify: https://yournextgenfriend.com/open-spotify

Apple Podcasts: https://yournextgenfriend.com/apple-podcast

In this solo episode, Elizabeth Ledoux talks about the signals most owners notice long before they say them out loud. They rarely arrive as a clear decision. They show up as a low-grade restlessness, a shorter runway, less appetite for the next big risk, or a quiet gut feeling that you are not reaching as hard as you used to. Elizabeth walks through what those signals look like, what tends to happen when owners keep explaining them away, and what opens up when they finally stop.

She shares two stories from her work. One is about an owner who kept saying not yet until a cancer diagnosis gave him six months and a sudden willingness to do the work, surfacing years of family conversations that could have happened sooner. The other is about a road-worn owner who arrived certain he wanted a fast third-party sale, until his own lawyer told him to slow down and figure out what he truly wanted. What he discovered changed the entire shape of his transition and gave him years of fulfillment on his own terms.

Key takeaways from this episode:

• Transition signals do not announce themselves. They show up quietly, in ways that are easy to rationalize because they feel small.
• "I'll deal with it when things calm down" is a loop. Things rarely calm down, and the urge to wait can itself be a signal that your runway is getting shorter.
• A lower appetite for risk is not a flaw. As the runway shortens, many owners take smaller risks because they have less time to recover, and noticing that shift is the point.
• The people around you carry signals too. A spouse who keeps mentioning travel, a child asking to buy in, a key employee quietly stepping up, these are information, not just interruptions.
• Your gut instinct got you here. If it is telling you that you are not as interested in the next decade of growth, that is worth honoring.
• This discomfort is usually not burnout. More often it means you are outgrowing your current chapter, and that can be a beautiful place to shift from when you are ready.

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and The Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap":

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Our Sister Show Your Next Gen Friend Hosted by Andrea Carpenter:

Your Next Gen Friend is for the next generation stepping into leadership in family and private businesses. If you're a successor figuring out your path, this show is for you.

Website: https://yournextgenfriend.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yournextgenfriend/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@yournextgenfriend

Andrea on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreakcarpenter/

Spotify: https://yournextgenfriend.com/open-spotify

Apple Podcasts: https://yournextgenfriend.com/apple-podcast

That was the spot Jimmy Taylor found himself in at Novotus. The company had grown for more than a decade, competitors were getting bought by giants the size of IBM, and the three owners could not align on whether to take on a partner, take on investment, or chart a path to retirement. The tension did not stay contained to one decision. It crept into everything. In this episode, Jimmy and Elizabeth trace how that stuck feeling spreads, what it took to break it, and why the partners walked away as friends.

From there the conversation opens up into the bigger pattern Elizabeth has seen across thirty years of this work. The dilemmas that keep owners frozen are usually imagined futures, not present-day facts. The mindsets that trap them often sound like loyalty. And the exercise that changes everything is simpler, and more uncomfortable, than most people expect: actually writing down what you want.

Key takeaways:

• Why a stuck partnership turns every ordinary decision into a source of conflict
• The difference between the functional side of a transition (tax, legal, closing) and the alignment work that actually frees people
• How the objectives matrix surfaces what each person truly wants, often for the first time
• Why most dilemmas live in an imagined future, and how looking for the gray opens real choices
• The mindset traps that keep owners in place: the business cannot run without me, nobody can do what I do
• Statistics and stories as the two things that genuinely shift an owner's thinking

Connect with Jimmy Taylor: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmy-taylor-sphr-25b230/

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and The Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap":

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Our Sister Show Your Next Gen Friend Hosted by Andrea Carpenter:

Your Next Gen Friend is for the next generation stepping into leadership in family and private businesses. If you're a successor figuring out your path, this show is for you.

Website: https://yournextgenfriend.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yournextgenfriend/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@yournextgenfriend

Andrea on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreakcarpenter/

Spotify: https://yournextgenfriend.com/open-spotify

Apple Podcasts: https://yournextgenfriend.com/apple-podcast

Mark Richards spent more than four decades building a career in advanced planning and life insurance for ultra-high-net-worth families. Along the way, he went through three major transitions: launching his own firm, merging into the Madison Group, buying out the founder during a financial crisis, and eventually rolling his equity into Winged Keel Group, which has since become the leading distributor of private placement life insurance in the country.

Mark's story touches on almost every challenge business owners face when thinking about what's next. A compensation model with zero recurring revenue. A founder who overvalued the business for years. A credit line that got converted into a loan with no capital access. And an advisory board of volunteers who told him, respectfully, that he was running out of runway.

But what makes this story worth hearing isn't just the obstacles. It's the decisions Mark made along the way. He built a volunteer Wisdom Council of five people who met quarterly and held him accountable. He brought his daughter Lily into the business through a structured training program. He joint-ventured with Winged Keel for 20 years before merging with them, building trust one deal at a time. And when it came time to approach the CEO about a merger, the opening came over dinner in New York from a relationship that started with buying two strangers lunch in Hanoi decades earlier.

The result? His small ownership stake in Winged Keel is now 470 times what his full ownership in the Madison Group was worth.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• How Mark navigated three transitions across a 45-year career and what each one taught him
• Why a business model with no recurring revenue creates a valuation challenge that many owners don't see coming
• What happened when a founder's emotional attachment to valuation collided with a financial crisis
• How a volunteer advisory board (the "Wisdom Council") changed the trajectory of Mark's business and his transition
• Why Mark brought his daughter into the business through a training program instead of handing her a role
• How 20 years of joint ventures and one act of kindness in Vietnam led to the partnership that changed everything

Connect with Mark Richards:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-richards-6472639/

Winged Keel Group: https://www.wingedkeel.com/

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and The Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap":

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Our Sister Show Your Next Gen Friend Hosted by Andrea Carpenter:

Your Next Gen Friend is for the next generation stepping into leadership in family and private businesses. If you're a successor figuring out your path, this show is for you.

Website: https://yournextgenfriend.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yournextgenfriend/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@yournextgenfriend

Andrea on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreakcarpenter/

Spotify: https://yournextgenfriend.com/open-spotify

Apple Podcasts: https://yournextgenfriend.com/apple-podcast

Most owners spend decades building a company and only months trying to sell it. Tim Vorhoff, founding partner of CreoValo and author of Exit Right, has made it his mission to close that gap. In this episode, Tim and Elizabeth break down what actually goes into a successful external sale: what buyers evaluate, why your financials might be the single biggest dealbreaker, and what it looks like to build a business that can transfer to someone who's never set foot inside it.

Tim shares stories from his work with mid-market and family-owned businesses. A court transcription company that sold for $16 million because the owners had stepped away 15 years earlier and the business kept growing. A friend who sold his auto repair business, traveled, bought everything he wanted, got bored, and opened another shop because the work itself was always the point. And a nine-figure revenue company that couldn't go to market because their accounting system couldn't break out revenue by service line.

Whether you're five years out or just beginning to think about what's next for your business, this episode lays the groundwork for making that transition on your terms.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• The difference between an internal sale and an external sale, and why each one calls for a different approach
• What the "five D's" are and why unplanned events can destroy business value when there's no preparation in place
• Why the most transferable businesses command the highest valuations, and what "transferable" actually means in practice
• How long it takes to build the infrastructure, processes, and team that make a business ready for a buyer
• Why financial readiness is the number one deal-killer and how disorganized books can derail even the strongest companies
• What Tim means by "know the rules of the game before you play," and why a little education is the most affordable insurance an owner can get

Connect with Tim Vorhoff:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timvorhoff/

Book: https://howtoexitright.com/

Website: https://creovalo.com/

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and The Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap":

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Our Sister Show Your Next Gen Friend Hosted by Andrea Carpenter:

Your Next Gen Friend is for the next generation stepping into leadership in family and private businesses. If you're a successor figuring out your path, this show is for you.

Website: https://yournextgenfriend.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yournextgenfriend/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@yournextgenfriend

Andrea on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreakcarpenter/

Spotify: https://yournextgenfriend.com/open-spotify

Apple Podcasts: https://yournextgenfriend.com/apple-podcast

In this solo episode, Elizabeth Ledoux takes a deep dive into business governance and why it's not the obstacle most owners assume it is. She walks through the three levels of decision-making in any business (CEO/job level, board level, and shareholder level), explains why most small business owners have them all smashed together, and shares how pulling them apart creates a real learning platform for successors. Elizabeth also introduces two practical tools — the board constitution and decision levels — that she's used with clients for years to transfer authority gradually, build trust, and set up businesses to thrive beyond their founders.

Key takeaways from this episode:

• Most small business owners resist governance because they associate it with losing autonomy — but it's actually the structure that makes successful transitions possible.
• Three levels of business decision-making exist in every company: job/CEO level, board level, and shareholder level. In small businesses, these are usually collapsed into one person.
• The board is a learning platform — it gives successors a structured space to develop judgment, debate ideas, and earn trust before taking full authority.
• A board constitution defines how the board operates: who's on it, how often you meet, what's expected, and how you remove someone. It can be as structured or flexible as you need.
• Decision levels act as "brakes and gas" — you can move authority between the board and the CEO role gradually, giving successors more autonomy as trust grows.
• Building a functioning board takes 1–2 years of practice, cadence, and learning — and it's worth every bit of that investment.

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and The Transition Strategists

• Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap"

• Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2
• Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Our Sister Show: Your Next Gen Friend

Hosted by Andrea Carpenter, Your Next Gen Friend is for the next generation stepping into leadership in family and private businesses. If you're a successor figuring out your path, this show is for you.

• Website: https://yournextgenfriend.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yournextgenfriend/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@yournextgenfriend
• Andrea on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreakcarpenter/
• Spotify: https://yournextgenfriend.com/open-spotify
• Apple Podcasts: https://yournextgenfriend.com/apple-podcast

In this episode, Elizabeth Ledoux sits down with Dennis Passis to explore the concept of "founder paralysis," the very real inability of founders to step away from the business they built. At the heart of it? A question most founders avoid: What am I going to do for the rest of my life?

Dennis shares how founders often stay stuck not because they lack capability, but because they lack clarity on what comes next. From fear of irrelevance to lack of trust in the next generation, this conversation gets into the emotional realities behind succession and what it takes to move forward with confidence and purpose.

What You'll Hear in This Episode:

• What "founder paralysis" really is and why it's so common
• The hidden question that keeps founders stuck
• Signs a founder is holding on too long (and what it costs the business)
• Why founders are "fixers" and how that shapes their next chapter
• The role of identity, ego, and fear in succession
• Why having something meaningful to move toward changes everything

Connect with Dennis Passis

• Family Wealth Library: https://www.familywealthlibrary.com/
• Book "Founder Paralysis" : https://www.amazon.com/Founder-Paralysis-Business-Founders-Identity/dp/B0D9P68R8J

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and The Transition Strategists

• Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap"

• Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2
• Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Our Sister Show: Your Next Gen Friend

Hosted by Andrea Carpenter, Your Next Gen Friend is for the next generation stepping into leadership in family and private businesses. If you're a successor figuring out your path, this show is for you.

• Website: https://yournextgenfriend.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yournextgenfriend/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@yournextgenfriend
• Andrea on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreakcarpenter/
• Spotify: https://yournextgenfriend.com/open-spotify
• Apple Podcasts: https://yournextgenfriend.com/apple-podcast

In this episode, Elizabeth Ledoux sits down with Marcy McNeal to explore how families can navigate existing tension without damaging relationships or the business itself.

From inherited behavioral patterns to unclear expectations and emotional reactions, this conversation gets to the root of why conflict feels so personal—and how to move it back into a productive, business-focused space.

If you’ve ever felt stuck in difficult conversations, unsure how to hold your ground without shutting down or escalating, this episode offers practical tools you can use immediately.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• Why family conflict often starts long before the business
• The critical difference between hard conversations and real conflict
• How childhood dynamics show up in leadership roles
• Why clarity of expectations removes emotional tension
• How curiosity can shift even the most difficult conversations
• The danger of tying love to agreement in family systems

Connect with Marcy McNeal

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcy-mcneal/

Subscribe to “The Business Transition Roadmap”

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

In this episode, Elizabeth Ledoux welcomes Franco Lombardo to explore the concept of emotional governance and why creating safe space within family systems may be the missing link in long-term legacy success.

Franco shares how his own journey from wealth management to family dynamics work began with confronting shame and misaligned purpose. From there, the conversation dives deep into sibling rivalry, entitlement, silence between generations, and why many families invest heavily in governance structures but very little in emotional maturity.

If you are navigating transition, preparing heirs, or feeling tension beneath the surface of your family business, this episode will challenge you to look deeper.

Key Topics Covered:

1. What emotional governance actually means and why it matters
2. Why families break down slowly, not suddenly
3. The danger of silence in family systems
4. The disconnect between generations around preparedness
5. Why entitlement often stems from parental rescue patterns
6. The importance of addressing emotional maturity before wealth transfer

Franco also shares insights from his newly released research study on emotional disconnection in family enterprises, available via his LinkedIn profile.

Subscribe to Business Transition Roadmap on your favorite podcast player.

Elizabeth & The Transition Strategists

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transitionstrategists

Subscribe to The Business Transition Roadmap

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

🔗 Connect with Franco Lombardo:

Website: https://www.veritage.ca/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francesco-lombardo-496a7966/

Research Study: Available via LinkedIn (type “research” in message request)

Now what?

In this episode of Business Transition Roadmap, Elizabeth talks with John Arnolfo, former owner of the Silver Grill Café, about what really happens after you hand over the keys. While the sale itself came together quickly—over breakfast and a handshake—the emotional transition took far more intention.

John shares what surprised him most about retirement, why social connection mattered more than golf or travel, and how writing a memoir became the unexpected “next thing” that gave him purpose again.

If you’re a business owner contemplating a sale—or already navigating life after one—this conversation is both grounding and hopeful.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

1. How a competitor’s phone call led to a handshake deal in three meetings
2. Why planning for transition 30 years early made all the difference
3. The unexpected emptiness that can follow even a successful sale
4. The importance of social energy and identity beyond the business
5. Lessons from failed experiments—and knowing when to let go
6. How writing a memoir became John’s new “jump out of bed” reason
7. What makes a win-win external sale truly possible

Subscribe to Business Transition Roadmap on your favorite podcast player.

Elizabeth & The Transition Strategists

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transitionstrategists

Subscribe to The Business Transition Roadmap

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Most business owners delay transition not because it’s complicated—but because it feels final, emotional, and identity-threatening. In this episode, Elizabeth Ledoux challenges the idea that transition is something to survive. Instead, she introduces four transition principles and the three C’s—clarity, confidence, and communication—that make transition energizing instead of overwhelming.

If you’re an owner, leader, or successor who has been putting off important conversations, this episode will help you reframe transition as a journey you design—not an event you dread.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

1. Why transition fails when it’s avoided—not when it’s complicated
2. The difference between treating transition as an event vs. a journey
3. Why “letting go” creates resistance—and “passing forward” builds confidence
4. The evolution from Transition 1.0 and 2.0 to Transition 3.0
5. How clarity of the next adventure unlocks momentum
6. Why clarity, confidence, and communication must be threaded throughout the process

Visit The Transition Strategists to explore the Evolve Program, designed to help multiple generations build clarity, confidence, and communication together.

Subscribe to Business Transition Roadmap on your favorite podcast player.

Elizabeth & The Transition Strategists

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transitionstrategists

Subscribe to The Business Transition Roadmap

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Chapters in This Episode

00:00 – Welcome & Why Transition Feels Heavy

02:10 – Why Transitions Fail (Avoidance vs. Design)

03:45 – Transition as a Human System

05:05 – The Three C’s: Clarity, Confidence & Communication

06:40 – Principle 1: It’s a Journey, Not an Event

08:30 – Why Events Create Panic & Avoidance

09:45 – Principle 2: Pass It Forward, Don’t Let Go

11:40 – Building Confidence for Transitioners & Successors

12:55 – Principle 3: Transition 1.0 Explained

13:50 – Transition 2.0 Explained

14:45 – Transition 3.0: Collaborative Design

16:20 – Ongoing Dialogue vs. One-Time Declarations

17:05 – Principle 4: Clarity of the Next Adventure

18:20 – Transition Expands People

19:10 – Invitation to Start the Journey & Explore Evolve

In this episode of Business Transition Roadmap, Elizabeth Ledoux breaks down Transition 3.0, a collaborative approach to succession that moves beyond secrecy and top-down announcements. She explains how traditional transition models often create shock, quiet resentment, or surface-level alignment—and why involving the next generation before decisions are finalized dramatically improves outcomes.

Elizabeth outlines the differences between Transition 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0, showing why compliance is not commitment, assumptions create risk, and people support what they help create. If you’re an owner planning for the future—or a successor trying to understand where you fit—this episode offers a clearer path forward.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

1. The three transition models most owners use without realizing it
2. Why secrecy and “I’ll tell them when it happens” creates risk
3. How Transition 2.0 improves timing but still falls short
4. The difference between compliance and commitment
5. Why most transitions fail on the human side
6. How collaborative design increases clarity, buy-in, and durability

Elizabeth & The Transition Strategists

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transitionstrategists

Subscribe to The Business Transition Roadmap

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Chapters in This Episode

00:00 – Introduction to Transition 3.0

01:05 – Succession Planning vs. Transition Strategy

02:15 – Transition 1.0: “I’ll Tell Them When It Happens”

04:30 – The Shock, Risk, and Fallout of Secrecy

06:40 – Transition 2.0: Informing Without Including

09:30 – Compliance vs. Commitment

11:15 – Why Assumptions Undermine Transitions

12:40 – Transition 3.0: Collaborative Design Explained

14:50 – Including the Human Side of Transition

16:40 – Why Transition 3.0 Works

18:00 – Invitation to the Evolve Program & Closing Reflection

In this episode of The Business Transition Roadmap, Elizabeth Ledoux sits down with executive coach Jeff Munn, who specializes in helping founders and business owners move past the letdown of success and the overthinking that follows major milestones.

Jeff shares his own journey as a lawyer, consultant, and executive who checked every box—only to discover that outer achievement can’t replace inner clarity. Together, they explore why busyness becomes an avoidance strategy, how identity gets tangled up in leadership roles, and why transition becomes more meaningful when leaders focus on feeling fully alive in their purpose, mission, and impact.

This episode is an invitation to slow down, clear the noise, and get honest about what you want next—before the next chapter is decided for you.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

1. Why “winning on paper” can still leave leaders feeling stuck
2. Jeff’s journey from overachiever to executive coach
3. The emotional letdown that often follows major success
4. How overthinking replaces clarity during transition
5. Why busyness can become an avoidance strategy
6. Identity shifts during succession, exit, and leadership change
7. The importance of slowing down before making big decisions
8. How purpose, aliveness, and impact shape what comes next

Connect with Jeff Munn

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffmunn/

Creating Extraordinary Futures: https://jmunn.com/

Elizabeth & The Transition Strategists

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transitionstrategists

Subscribe to The Business Transition Roadmap

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm.

Chapters in This Episode

00:00 — Welcome & Introducing Jeff Munn

02:02 — Winning on Paper but Still Feeling Stuck

03:45 — The Limits of Outer Success

06:00 — Panic, Pressure & the Overachiever Identity

07:54 — Meditation, Awareness & Slowing Down

09:13 — Leaving the Law Firm & Trusting Intuition

11:18 — Clearing Noise to Find What Matters

12:48 — Busyness as an Avoidance Strategy

14:50 — Slowing Down to See the Next Move

17:41 — Transition, Legacy & Identity Shifts

18:30 — Focusing on Where You’re Going—Not Just What You’re Leaving

20:49 — Designing Transition Together

23:51 — The Power of a Compelling Next Chapter

25:57 — Why You’re Allowed to Slow Down

27:12 — Final Reflections & Closing

In this solo episode, Elizabeth Ledoux invites business owners and successors to rethink the idea of readiness in succession planning. Through a real client story and her own experience transitioning ownership without a successor initially in place, Elizabeth reframes uncertainty as a powerful strategic tool.

She explains why waiting until you “know for sure” often leads to avoidance, anxiety, and missed opportunities—and how adding time to the transition equation creates clarity, confidence, and stronger relationships. If you’ve been holding off because you don’t feel ready, this episode is your permission slip to begin anyway.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

1. Why readiness is a myth in business transition
2. How “not knowing” can actually reduce anxiety
3. Elizabeth’s personal transition story—and what surprised her most
4. Why transition works best as a journey, not an event
5. The power of time in building clarity, confidence, and communication
6. How the “gap vs. gain” mindset impacts founders and successors
7. Why starting early creates better outcomes—even without a successor
8. One small step you can take today to begin your transition journey

Connect with Elizabeth & The Transition Strategists

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transitionstrategists

Subscribe to The Business Transition Roadmap

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Chapters in This Episode

00:00 — Welcome & The Gift of Not Knowing

01:10 — Why We Think We’re Supposed to “Know”

02:30 — A Client Story That Changed the Question

05:20 — Starting a Transition Without a Successor

07:45 — The Myth of Readiness in Transition

10:10 — Why Time Lowers Anxiety and Builds Trust

12:20 — Gap vs. Gain: Shifting the Mindset

13:55 — Using Not Knowing as a Tool

14:45 — One Small Step to Begin Today

In this episode, Elizabeth Ledoux sits down with digital asset expert Paige Wiese to uncover why digital infrastructure is now a critical driver of business value during succession or sale. Paige explains how unseen risks—vendor ownership, missing access, compliance gaps, and undocumented systems—can quietly derail transactions or drastically reduce valuation.

This conversation is essential listening for owners, successors, and advisors who want to future-proof businesses and protect the value they’ve spent years building.

In This Episode:

• What qualifies as a “digital asset” in today’s businesses
• Why buyers care deeply about digital infrastructure—especially late in due diligence
• The seven pillars of digital asset ownership and protection
• Common “no moments” that trigger panic during transitions
• How vendor contracts can unintentionally strip ownership
• Real stories of lost websites, frozen systems, and emergency recoveries
• Why digital continuity planning protects both value and legacy
• How to start preparing your digital assets now—before transition pressure hits

Guest Information

Paige Wiese is the founder and CEO of Tree Ring Digital, a Denver-based digital agency specializing in high-performance websites, digital asset protection, and data-driven marketing strategies. With over 16 years in the industry, Paige developed a proprietary digital asset management framework to help businesses protect value, reduce risk, and maintain continuity during growth and transition.

Connect with Paige Wiese & Tree Ring Digital

Website & Digital Asset Checklist:

https://treeringdigital.com/transitionstrategists

Paige on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux & The Transition Strategists

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transitionstrategists

Subscribe to The Business Transition Roadmap

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Chapters in This Episode

00:00 — Welcome & Why Digital Assets Matter

02:01 — Paige’s Journey & Founding Tree Ring Digital

03:36 — What Counts as a Digital Asset

05:38 — “No Moments” That Trigger Transition Panic

07:29 — Digital Infrastructure as Core Business Value

09:26 — The Seven Pillars of Digital Asset Protection

11:54 — Vendor Ownership & Contract Landmines

14:55 — Delegation, Trust & Knowledge Gaps

16:40 — Digital Assets as Exit-Readiness Infrastructure

18:31 — How Buyers Evaluate Digital Risk

19:53 — Where to Start: Checklists & Ownership Mapping

21:10 — Digital Due Diligence & Trust Building

23:19 — Digital Continuity Management Explained

25:22 — Why Human Support Still Matters

27:17 — Knowledge Transition & Asset Handoffs

28:43 — Real Crisis Story: Sudden Loss & Recovery

31:14 — Reframing Digital Assets in Your Roadmap

33:10 — Acceleration of Digital Dependence

34:45 — Paige’s Final Advice

35:28 — How to Connect with Paige

36:04 — Closing Reflections

In this episode, Elizabeth Ledoux and her successor-partner Andrea Carpenter unpack how Transition 3.0 is changing the way families think about succession. Instead of designing a transition for your successors, Transition 3.0 invites you to build it with them—reducing assumptions, strengthening communication, and dramatically increasing success.

They explore why 60% of transitions fail, why proactive planning protects relationships, and how the Evolve program helps owners create clarity, optionality, and momentum—whether they plan to exit in 2 years or 12.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• Why 60% of transitions fail—and why communication is the real reason
• The difference between Transition 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0
• How assumptions become landmines in family and partner dynamics
• Why designing transition with your successors changes everything
• The Evolve program and what makes it different
• What owners get wrong about timing—and why the best time to plan is before you want to leave
• How clarity reduces advisor costs and accelerates decision-making
• Real stories from families who were proactive… and those who waited too long

🔗 Connect with Elizabeth & The Transition Strategists

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transitionstrategists

🔗 Connect with Andrea Carpenter & Your Next Gen Friend

Website: https://yournextgenfriend.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yournextgenfriend/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@yournextgenfriend

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreashaver/

🎧 Subscribe to The Business Transition Roadmap

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Chapters in This Episode

00:00 — Welcome & Why We’re Talking About Evolve

01:26 — The People-First Path to Transition

02:44 — Why 60% of Transitions Fail

04:36 — The $83.5 Trillion Wealth Transfer & What’s at Risk

06:33 — Protecting Relationships: The Real Asset

08:05 — What Transition 3.0 Is (and Why It Works)

09:46 — Assumptions That Derail Owners

11:43 — Avoidance as a Decision

13:35 — The Transition Compass: Why, What, Who, When

15:41 — Optionality, Timing & Planning Before You’re Ready

17:20 — Identity Work & Life Beyond the Business

19:49 — Resetting Family Dynamics & Addressing Tension

22:42 — The Evolve Program & How It Works

25:11 — The Transformation: Clarity, Behavior Change, Strategy

28:53 — Story 1: Reactive Family Crisis → Reconnection

30:38 — Story 2: Proactive Partners → Faster, Clearer Decisions

34:11 — Starting Even Without a Successor

34:36 — Why the Best Time to Start Is Now

35:45 — Legacy and Harmony: Yes, You Can Have Both

37:35 — The Application Process & Who Evolve Is For

39:12 — Take a Small Step: Your Future Depends On It

40:02 — Closing Thoughts

In this episode, Elizabeth Ledoux unpacks the fears that hold founders and successors in place, even when they say they want forward movement. She explains how hidden fears shape decisions, limit communication, and keep people isolated at the exact moment they need connection the most.

Through real client examples, Elizabeth explores why transitions trigger identity questions, financial worries, concerns about relevance, and a desire to keep “skeletons in the closet.” She offers mindset shifts and practical insight for naming fear, understanding it, and moving through it with clarity and bravery.

In this episode:

• The fears that keep entrepreneurs and successors stuck
• Fear of loss, fear of relevance, fear of conflict, fear of regret
• Why isolation amplifies fear—and connection shrinks it
• The cost of staying stuck: missed opportunities, silent resentment, delayed decisions
• Shifting from the “gap” to the “gain”
• Why bravery is less about bold action and more about letting someone in
• How transparency, shared vision, and conversation unlock momentum
• The role of the Evolve program and immersion work in breaking fear-driven patterns

🔗 Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux & The Transition Strategists

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transitionstrategists

🔗 Connect with Andrea Carpenter & Your Next Gen Friend

Website: https://yournextgenfriend.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yournextgenfriend/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@yournextgenfriend

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreashaver/

🎧 Subscribe to The Business Transition Roadmap

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Elizabeth sits down with Susan K. Bradley, CFP®, CeFT®, founder of the Sudden Money® Institute, to explore how the in-between moments of change hold the greatest potential for creation and clarity. Susan brings nearly three decades of experience guiding families and advisors through the emotional, relational, and structural layers of transition.

Together they unpack liminality, the creative tension between endings and beginnings, and why navigating it with awareness builds resilience and renewal.

In this episode:

• How Susan went from financial planning to founding the Financial Transitionist® Institute

• Why “the human side drives the bus” during transitions

• How disruption creates new patterns, possibilities, and perspectives

• Liminality defined — and why living the question leads to better outcomes

• The concept of “informed intuition” for advisors and successors

• Using structured conversations to create shared understanding in families

• The importance of patience, anchors, and guides in transition journeys

Connect with Susan Bradley:

Website: https://suddenmoney.com

TEDx Talk: “Change Launches You Into the Next Great Chapter of Your Life”

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and The Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transitionstrategists

Connect with Andrea Carpenter and Your Next Gen Friend:

Website: https://yournextgenfriend.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yournextgenfriend/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@yournextgenfriend

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreashaver/

Subscribe to The Business Transition Roadmap:

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

In this conversation, Elizabeth and brand strategist Meghan Lynch dig into the human side of brand during succession. Meghan reframes “brand strategy” as the practical process of making a company’s reputation transferable—pulling stories and decision rules out of a founder’s head, mapping the messaging, and sequencing one-to-one conversations so key stakeholders see continuity and new energy.

They also cover where transitions derail (silence driven by fear), how to pace internal vs. external comms, and why the work goes better when brand wraps around the legal, governance, and personal readiness work already in motion.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• Brand = reputation: a plain-English way to align founders, teams, and markets
• The “impossible hand-off” myth—and how process makes trust transferable
• Internal vs. external comms: what to say first, to whom, and how often
• Why fear + silence break transitions (and what to say instead)
• Systematizing founder judgment: stories, language, and decision heuristics
• Timelines that work: why 24–36 months changes the outcome

Connect with Meghan Lynch:

Website: https://sixpointstrategy.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melynch/

Podcast: Building Unbreakable Brands (with Henry)

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and The Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

Transition Strategists on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transitionstrategists

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player:

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Check out "Your Next Gen Friend Podcast" with Andrea Carpenter

Spotify: https://yournextgenfriend.com/open-spotify

Apple Podcasts: https://yournextgenfriend.com/apple-podcast

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman's latest book, "It's A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv

Ready to explore what a collaborative transition could look like?

Schedule a discovery call: https://transitionstrategists.com/discovery

Chapters in This Episode:

01:00 Meet Meghan Lynch, Six-Point Strategy

02:05 Origin Story: From marketing to succession-savvy brand strategy

05:27 Brand = Reputation: A language shift founders get

08:05 “The 50-Year Hand-Off” Problem: Why it feels impossible

11:09 Time as a Strategy: Why long runways win

13:18 Fear & Silence: The #1 way transitions tank

16:23 Brand Wraps the Plan: Aligning with legal + governance work

18:08 Internal vs. External: Sequencing who hears what, when

22:35 How Long It Takes: 24–36 months to shift the story arc

25:42 Retention = Value: Strategy that keeps clients & team together

27:09 Letting Go: From stewarding personally to stewardingsystemically

29:36 Closing Takeaway: Make reputation transferable

It’s one of the most powerful—and loaded—questions in any family business transition. In this episode, Transition Guides Marcy McNeil and Deborah Davis unpack “The Who,” a cornerstone of the Transition Compass, and reveal why clarity around ownership, leadership, and stewardship is the true foundation of a successful transition.

They share how honest conversations about readiness, desire, and alignment help families move from assumption to shared understanding—and how even uncomfortable truth can bring freedom when it’s named with empathy.

Whether you’re the current owner, the rising generation, or somewhere in between, this episode will help you see that “The Who” is not just about roles—it’s about relationship, purpose, and legacy.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• Why “The Who” is the emotional heartbeat of transition planning
• How to separate ownership from leadership—and why that distinction matters
• What to do when no one (or everyone) wants to be next
• How Transition Guides help families talk about readiness and calling
• Real-world stories of clarity, relief, and breakthrough moments
• The surprising gift of hearing, “Maybe it’s not me—and that’s okay”

🔗 Connect with The Transition Strategists

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transitionstrategists

Elizabeth Ledoux: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/

Schedule a Discovery Call: https://transitionstrategists.com/discovery

🕓 Chapters in This Episode

00:00 Introduction to “The Who” on the Transition Compass

01:35 Why the People Question Is the Hardest One

04:25 Founders’ Fears: Letting Go of the Reins

08:10 Successor Assumptions and Honest Conversations

11:45 When Ownership and Leadership Aren’t the Same

16:50 Real Client Stories: Relief in Naming the Truth

21:15 The Role of a Guide in Surfacing Readiness

25:30 The Emotional Shift from Control to Collaboration

30:05 How to Begin Exploring Your “Who” as a Family

34:20 Key Takeaways & Where to Learn More

In this episode, Elizabeth sits down with historian and founder of Everyday Legacies, Kasia Flanagan, who helps families preserve their life stories through memoirs, films, and storybooks. Kasia’s personal journey from hardship in rural Idaho to earning a PhD in history and serving families worldwide is a powerful testimony to the resilience found in family narratives.

Together, they explore why storytelling is essential for family transition, how vulnerability creates belonging, and why legacy should be thought of as fluid rather than fixed. If you’ve ever wondered what it truly means to “leave something behind,” this conversation will inspire you to start recording your story today.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• How Kasia’s childhood stories carried her from homelessness to a PhD
• Why knowing your history strengthens identity across generations
• The fears that keep families from sharing their stories—and how to face them
• Why legacy is about influence, not just assets
• How storytelling heals old wounds and opens new connection
• A practical DIY guide to capturing your own family legacy

Check out Kasia Flanagan's work:

Website: https://everydaylegacies.com

Free Resource: DIY Guide to Capturing Family History (available at top banner)

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and The Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

Transition Strategists on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transitionstrategists

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player:

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Check out "Your Next Gen Friend Podcast" with Andrea Carpenter

Spotify: https://yournextgenfriend.com/open-spotify

Apple Podcasts: https://yournextgenfriend.com/apple-podcast

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman's latest book, "It's A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv

Ready to explore what a collaborative transition could look like?

Schedule a discovery call: https://transitionstrategists.com/discovery

Chapters in This Episode

00:00 Welcome & Introduction

01:17 Kasia’s Childhood and the Power of Family Stories

03:34 Why Knowing Your Story Shapes Identity

05:28 The Fears Behind Telling Your Story

08:24 How Stories Bridge Generations & Break Down Facades

11:24 Redefining Legacy: More Than Assets

15:33 Healing Through Storytelling & Vulnerability

17:34 How Everyday Legacies Helps Families Capture Their Story

19:42 Public Biography vs. Private Family Story

22:12 What Legacy Means to Kasia Personally

25:30 Legacy as Fluid, Not Fixed

26:24 A Practical Challenge: Start Recording Your Story Today

28:01 Where to Find Kasia’s Free DIY Legacy Guide

Adam Hill—4th-gen leader, CEPA, and Professional EOS Implementer—joins Elizabeth to talk candidly about stepping into leadership, nearly facing insolvency, and using EOS to professionalize a legacy company. They unpack the identity shift for founders, why communication is the next-gen’s superpower, and how to move teams out of “artificial harmony” into healthy conflict that actually solves problems. If you’re eyeing a transition in the next 3–5 years, or you’re a rising successor who wants to do it right, this one’s a masterclass.

Top Takeaways

• The legacy trap: when “preserve what we have” replaces “create new value.”
• Right person, right seat: how EOS de-personalizes family dynamics and professionalizes decision-making.
• Communication beats assumption: what next-gen leaders must say out loud (even when it’s scary).
• From harmony to health: naming and exiting “artificial harmony” to resolve real issues.
• Professionalizing for transition: strengthen the five capitals (financial, human, structural, social, customer) to raise enterprise value and multiples.
• Founder identity shift: why planning “what’s next for me” reduces resistance to letting go.

Connect with Adam Hill:

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/adamchill

Fearless Family Business Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/5K0guqNH7IpkKf0qkxByn9?si=087d5de0d30c4df9

EOS Implementer Profile / Contact: https://www.eosworldwide.com/adam-hill

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and The Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

Transition Strategists on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transitionstrategists

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player:

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Check out "Your Next Gen Friend Podcast" with Andrea Carpenter

Spotify: https://yournextgenfriend.com/open-spotify

Apple Podcasts: https://yournextgenfriend.com/apple-podcast

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman's latest book, "It's A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv

Ready to explore what a collaborative transition could look like?

Schedule a discovery call: https://transitionstrategists.com/discovery

Chapters in This Episode

00:01 – Welcome & Guest Setup: Adam’s credentials and why EOS matters now.     

01:32 – Origin Story: Great-grandfather’s 1923 launch; growing up in the “family business bubble.”  

04:27 – Inside the Company: Roles across lab, safety, ops, sales; building customer service.    

05:32 – The Cousins’ Era: Governance complexity and 60 family owners.       

07:52 – What Is Legacy, Really?: From value creation to preservation.

10:07 – Why So Many Fail: Preparation gaps and successor readiness.  

11:29 – Entitlement vs. Preparation: “Right person, right seat” and structured mentorship.    

13:24 – Founder Identity & Letting Go: Planning “what’s next” to enable transition.

15:27 – The #1 Next-Gen Mistake: Under-communicating.   

17:11 – How to Speak Up: Curiosity, outside mentors, and peer groups.  

18:40 – Conflict That Heals: Escaping “artificial harmony.”  

21:22 – EOS in Practice: From near-insolvency to disciplined execution; the five capitals.

24:12 – Closing: Final thoughts and gratitude.

Craig brings a unique perspective as both a serial entrepreneur and former private equity professional. After working in private equity for over a decade helping portfolio companies with revenue optimization, he started his own fintech company and successfully navigated his own exit to a strategic partner. This dual experience—seeing transitions from both the advisor and owner perspectives—led him to create a solution for the most common problem he witnessed: founders walking away from 30-40 years of hard work feeling unsatisfied and leaving money on the table. Book a discovery call: https://transitionstrategists.com/discovery/ 

Key Topics Covered: 

• The AI Exit Navigator Process: How the proprietary exit readiness score works across six strategic pillars to identify gaps and create custom roadmaps 
• The 10-15 Minute Assessment: Understanding revenue cycles, leadership dependency, family readiness, and process frameworks through a streamlined survey 
• Common Exit Mistakes: Why heavy reliance on the owner is the number one factor that derails transitions—appearing twice as often as any other issue 
• Building Leadership Teams: How to develop trusted team members who can take on responsibility and help owners work "on" rather than "in" their business 
• The Marketplace Approach: Connecting vetted, trusted advisors with founders at the right time in their journey, creating a comprehensive support ecosystem 
• Partnership with TTS: How AI Exit Navigator integrates with family and succession transition expertise to address both technical and emotional aspects 
• Timeline Reality: Why transitions take years, not months, and how proper planning prevents owners from "winging it" at the crucial moment 
• Advisory Team Assembly: Moving beyond single-advisor relationships to build the full cabinet of experts needed for successful transitions 

Craig emphasizes that business transitions should be exciting journeys, not overwhelming ordeals. His technology-driven approach removes the confusion and ad-hoc nature of traditional exit planning, providing founders with clear roadmaps and the right people to execute them. 

Connect with Craig Sweeney: 

Website: https://www.joinspecialops.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigsweeney2010/ 

Get your Exit Readiness Score: https://www.joinspecialops.com/exit-navigator-score

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and The Transition Strategists: 

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/ 

 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists 

 Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/ 

 Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/ 

 Transition Strategists on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transitionstrategists 

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player: 

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2 

 Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux 

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman's latest book, "It's A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": 

 https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv 

Ready to explore what a collaborative transition could look like? 

 Schedule a discovery call: https://transitionstrategists.com/discovery 

Chapters in this Episode:

00:00 Introduction to Craig Sweeney and AI Exit Navigator 

02:15 From Private Equity to Serial Entrepreneur 

05:20 The Problem with Traditional Exit Planning 

08:45 How AI Exit Navigator Works: The Six Pillars 

12:30 The Exit Readiness Score Process 

15:40 Most Common Mistakes: Owner Dependency Issues 

19:15 Building Leadership Teams That Can Take Over 

22:30 The Marketplace Approach to Advisory Services 

26:45 Partnership Between AI Exit Navigator and TTS 

29:20 Timeline Reality: Why Transitions Take Years 

32:15 Making Exit Planning Exciting, Not Overwhelming 

35:30 Final Advice for Founders Considering Transition 

From uncovering personal values and legacy goals to naming deal breakers and navigating differing visions, this episode reveals how structured dialogue can ease tension and spark aligned action.

They also share the unique role a guide plays in holding space, asking tough questions, and empowering families to move from secrecy to shared vision.

• Loss of identity or purpose (owners & successors)
• Fear of family conflict
• Fear of making the wrong decision or saying the wrong thing
• Fear of being misunderstood or not having a voice

👉 Schedule a discovery call : https://transitionstrategists.com/discovery

Key Topics Covered

• What the Objectives Matrix is and why it’s essential
• How stating objectives in present tense shifts energy
• Real stories of emotional clarity and breakthroughs
• Why deal breakers matter more than you think
• Understanding > alignment: building mutual respect
• The role of a guide in creating psychological safety
• How secrecy can lead to conflict—and clarity can prevent it
• Turning succession from a transaction into a transformation

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

Transition Strategists on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transitionstrategists

Connect with Debbie and Marcy on LinkedIn:

Marcy McNeal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcy-mcneal/

Deborah Davies:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/changeagent-coach-facilitator-deborah-davis-ms-pcc/

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player:

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman's latest book, "It's A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning":https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv

Ready to explore what a collaborative transition could look like?

Schedule a discovery call: https://transitionstrategists.com/discovery

Chapters in this episode

00:00 Introduction to Transition Work and the Objectives Matrix

01:45 Marcy and Debbie’s Journeys as Transition Guides

04:10 The Role of a Guide vs. Coach or Consultant

08:25 Uncovering the Why with the Objectives Matrix

12:40 Client Breakthroughs and Emotional Moments

16:55 The Power of Deal Breakers

21:15 Moving from Transaction to Transition

26:20 Real-World Examples of Shared Objectives

31:05 Creating Psychological Safety in the Process

36:10 Owner Fears and the Vulnerability of Letting Go

40:45 Key Takeaways and Where to Find the Tool

Andrea shares the reality of being a successor in the business she helps other successors navigate, revealing how even the most prepared transitions come with unexpected challenges and growth opportunities. Elizabeth reflects on how bringing on a successor has energized rather than slowed down the business, creating momentum and fresh perspectives that benefit everyone.

The heart of this episode focuses on their new Evolve program—a comprehensive approach that makes professional transition planning accessible through group immersion experiences, ongoing implementation support, and peer community connections. This isn't just anotherconsulting offering; it's a proven methodology that's been tested with larger enterprises and is now available to the broader business community.

Book a discovery call: https://transitionstrategists.com/discovery

Key Topics Covered:

• Successor Energy Effect: How bringing on Andrea accelerated business growth
• The Meta Experience: Navigating succession while helping other families do the same
• Evolve's Three Pillars: Immersion + Implementation + Peer Community
• Starting Without Answers: Beginning the journey before you have it all figured out
• Relationship-First Planning: Keeping families together through complex transitions
• No Financial Conflicts: Advisor-only approach vs. transaction-based models
• Timeline Reality: Why succession takes longer than most families expect
• Community Impact: Supporting the massive generational wealth transfer

Elizabeth and Andrea emphasize that transition is truly a journey, not an event, and that having the right support system makes all the difference in creating successful outcomes for families, businesses, and communities.

Connect with Andrea Carpenter:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreashaver/

Your Next Gen Friend Podcast: https://yournextgenfriend.com/podcast

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

Transition Strategists on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transitionstrategists

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player:

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and LauraChiesman's latest book, "It's A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv

Ready to explore what a collaborative transition could look like?

Schedule a discovery call: https://transitionstrategists.com/discovery

Chapters in this episode:

00:00 Introduction to Transition Updates and Evolve Program

02:10 The Energy of Bringing On a Successor

04:09 Andrea's Meta-Experience as Successor and Guide

06:33 Introducing the Evolve Program Vision

08:44 The Three Pillars: Immersion, Implementation, Community

11:06 Starting Without All the Answers

13:28 Supporting Both Owners and Successors

15:47 What Makes Evolve Different

18:10 Business Size and Accessibility

20:29 The Evolve Process Experience

22:42 Invitation to Explore

Kayla shares her personal journey with Spring Creek, her family's business in Canada, where she initially entered organically through a retail opportunity, left when relationships became strained, and returned with clarity about her role and renewed family dynamics. Her story illustrates the common challenges successors face - being seen as more than their family role, managing expectations, and finding their own identity within the family legacy. 

Schedule a discovery call: https://transitionstrategists.com/discovery 

Key Topics Covered: 

• The Organic Entry: How Kayla moved from her own retail business into the family company through a hotel development project 
• The Departure Decision: Why stepping away was necessary for both personal growth and family relationship preservation 
• Family vs. Business Roles: Navigating the challenge of being seen as a capable leader rather than "just the daughter" 
• Governance as Foundation: How starting with board structure and family governance created safety for the transition 
• Timeline Reality: Understanding that succession is a journey requiring years of knowledge transfer and development 
• Family-First Approach: Making family relationships the priority and keeping business discussions separate 
• The IMAP Experience: How understanding each family member's wiring improved collaboration and appreciation 
• Legacy Perspective: Building something that lasts beyond one generation and serves the community 

Kayla emphasizes the importance of patience, appreciation, and putting yourself in the business owner's shoes. She shares how structured conversations and clear governance helped transform family dynamics and created a path forward that works for everyone involved. 

Connect with Kayla Kernick: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaylakernick/ 

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and the Transition Strategists: 

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists 

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/ 

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/ 

Transition Strategists on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transitionstrategists 

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player: 

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2 

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux 

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman's latest book, "It's A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": 

https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv 

Ready to explore what a collaborative transition could look like? 

Schedule a discovery call: https://transitionstrategists.com/discovery 

Chapters in this episode: 

00:00 Introduction to Kayla Kernick and Her Dual Perspective 

02:15 Kayla's Journey Into the Family Business 

06:30 The Challenge of Being Seen Beyond Family Roles 

09:45 Why Stepping Away Was Necessary 

13:20 The Weight of Succession Becoming Real 

16:15 Making the Journey Fun and Meaningful 

19:30 The TTS Process: Starting with Governance 

23:45 Becoming a Transition Guide 

27:20 Patterns Among Other Successors 

30:15 The Power of Understanding Each Other's Wiring 

33:45 What Legacy Means to the Next Generation 

35:20 Advice for Fellow Successors 

Show Notes

Most business transition plans focus heavily on financial structure and tax strategy while missing the critical elements that determine whether a transition actually succeeds. In this episode, Elizabeth Ledoux breaks down the five key areas that traditional succession plans overlook and explains why addressing the "people side" of transition is just as important as the numbers.

Elizabeth shares insights from teaching transition planning to advisors and observing how most plans start with the wrong questions. Instead of beginning with "how much money can I get?" and "how do I structure it?", successful transitions start with understanding what matters most to everyone involved.

Get the free 5 parts guide: https://transitionstrategists.com/5parts

Key Topics Covered:

• The Problem with Traditional Planning: Why starting with financial structure misses critical relationship dynamics
• Missing Element #1: Envisioning Your Next Adventure - Understanding what fulfillment looks like beyond business ownership
• Missing Element #2: Developing Successors with Intention - Creating structured learning paths with clear milestones
• Missing Element #3: Honoring Emotional Journeys - Making space for feelings and fears that come with major change
• Missing Element #4: Alignment of Multiple Objectives - Understanding what matters most to everyone affected by the transition
• Missing Element #5: Building Governance Structures - Creating decision-making frameworks that support successor development
• The TTS Success Story: How a people-first approach led to 100% of client businesses continuing to thrive under new leadership

Elizabeth emphasizes that successful transitions require getting other people excited about joining the journey, not just creating a plan in isolation. She introduces tools like the Objectives Matrix and explains how deep conversations about hopes, fears, and dreams create the foundation for transitions that work for everyone involved.

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

Transition Strategists on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transitionstrategists

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player:

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman's latest book, "It's A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv

Ready to explore what a collaborative transition could look like?

Schedule a discovery call: https://transitionstrategists.com/discovery

Chapters In This Episode:

00:00 Introduction to What Transition Plans Miss

02:19 The Problem with Starting with "How" and "How Much"

04:45 Missing Element #1: Envisioning Your Next Adventure

07:03 Missing Element #2: Developing Successors with Intention

09:29 Missing Element #3: Honoring Emotional Journeys

13:55 Missing Element #4: Alignment of Multiple Objectives

20:55 Missing Element #5: Building Governance Structures

25:41 Taking Action and Using Time to Your Advantage

Elizabeth explains that while business owners often get labeled as "control freaks," control is usually rooted in care for others—protecting employees, family members, and the business itself. However, without a plan to gradually shift from control to collaboration, owners often get burnt out or stuck with nowhere to go.

The key insight? The best transitions are journeys, not events. Rather than a sudden handoff of control, successful transitions involve a gradual shift where successors can learn to lead before they have to dive in completely.

Key topics covered include:

• Why control is often rooted in care, not ego
• The dangers of sudden control handoffs versus gradual transitions
• How trust builds over time through collaboration
• The mindset shift from "I make the decisions" to "we're building this future together"
• Why starting early gives you the gift of time for both owner and successor development
• The biggest mistake owners make: waiting too long to involve others
• How to collaborate without making premature promises

Elizabeth emphasizes that collaboration requires time—successors need experience and knowledge to contribute meaningfully to decisions, and owners need time to develop confidence in their successors.

Chapters in this episode:

00:00 Introduction to Control vs Collaboration

02:30 Why Control is Often Rooted in Care

05:15 The Problems with Sudden Control Handoffs

08:45 Building Trust Through Gradual Transition

12:20 The Mindset Shift: Building the Future Together

16:30 Why Starting Early Gives You the Gift of Time

20:15 The Biggest Mistake: Waiting Too Long

23:45 How to Collaborate Without Making Promises

26:30 Invitation to Discovery Call

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

Transition Strategists on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transitionstrategists

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player:

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman's latest book, "It's A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv

Ready to explore what a collaborative transition could look like? Schedule a discovery call: https://transitionstrategists.com/discovery

Elizabeth uses the powerful metaphor of becoming an "empty nester" to help business owners understand the transition process. Just as parents prepare their children for independence, business owners must prepare their teams, successors, and businesses to thrive without their daily presence. 

The episode begins with a thought-provoking visualization exercise: What would happen if you could never step foot in your business again, starting today? Elizabeth guides listeners through examining their gut reactions - whether relief or panic - and what those responses reveal about their transition readiness. 

Key topics covered include: 

• The ripple effects of sudden owner absence on leadership, family, employees, and customers 
• Why business transitions should be journeys, not events 
• How to help successors become independent while honoring your legacy 
• Elizabeth's personal transition story and timeline with her successor Andrea 
• The difference between leaving your business and leaving it well 
• Planning your "Next Adventure" and rediscovering purpose beyond business ownership 
• Creating clarity and peace for everyone affected by your transition 

Chapters in this episode: 

(00:00) Introduction to Business Empty Nester Concept 

(01:46) Visualization Exercise: What If You're Not There Tomorrow? 

(05:31) Understanding the Ripple Effects of Owner Absence 

(09:50) Building Your Transition Roadmap: Elizabeth's Personal Story 

(13:11) Creating Meaningful Exits and Planning Your Next Adventure 

(17:24) Providing Clarity and Peace for Your Team and Family 

(21:07) Moving from Fear to Love: Starting Your Transition Journey 

Elizabeth emphasizes that meaningful exits aren't just about leaving - they're about leaving well. This means preparing successors for both good times and challenging periods, while also discovering what fulfilling life looks like beyond business ownership. 

The episode concludes with an invitation to explore the Evolve program, designed to help business owners and successors navigate their transition journeys with confidence and clarity. 

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and the Transition Strategists: 

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists 

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/ 

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/ 

Transition Strategists on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transitionstrategists 

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player: 

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2 

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux 

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman's latest book, "It's A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv 

Elizabeth defines legacy as what you leave behind - your business, impact, wealth, and the imprint of your effort and values. Harmony, on the other hand, is how you leave it behind - focusing on relationships, emotional well-being, and unity among all stakeholders. 

Many business owners believe they must choose between building a solid legacy and maintaining harmonious relationships. Elizabeth explains why this limiting belief can damage transitions and shares practical strategies for achieving both. 

Key topics covered include: 

• Why harmony requires transparency and vulnerability from all parties 
• The importance of listening without an agenda during transition conversations 
• How to lead with a new goal focused on relational strength 
• Creating communication bridges between generations with different visions 
• The benefits of starting your transition planning early 

Elizabeth also introduces the Evolve program, designed to support business owners and successors through their transition journeys while maintaining both legacy and harmony. 

Chapters in this episode: 

(00:00) Introduction to Legacy and Harmony 

(02:41) Defining Legacy and Harmony 

(05:54) The Importance of Harmony in Business Transitions 

(09:51) The Role of Communication in Achieving Harmony 

(13:33) Listening and Understanding Perspectives 

(17:47) Leading with a New Goal 

(21:47) Creating a Roadmap for Legacy and Harmony 

(24:43) Invitation to Evolve Program 

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and the Transition Strategists: 

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists 

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/ 

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/ 

Transition Strategists on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transitionstrategists 

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player: 

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2 

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux 

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman's latest book, "It's A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv 

Elizabeth shares her experience leading peer learning groups and emphasizes their value in navigating business challenges. Andrea offers insights from her personal and professional journey, discussing how peer learning helped her grow into leadership roles. 

Together, they explore how communities can provide essential support and accelerate the learning process for both transitioners and successors. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to harness the power of community in their transition journey.

Chapters in this episode: 

(01:28) Defining Peer Learning and Its Relevance

(02:34) Andrea’s Passion for Peer Learning Groups

(05:04) What Makes Peer Learning Transformative

(07:07) Peer Learning’s Role in Business Transitions

(10:32) Vision for a Peer Learning Organization

(16:34) Addressing Challenges in Business Transitioning

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux, Andrea Carpenter, and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists 

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/ 

Andrea on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreashaver 

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/ 

Transition Strategists on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transitionstrategists 

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player: 

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2 

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux 

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman’s latest book, "It’s A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv 

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com.

The hosts emphasize the importance of setting boundaries, communicating effectively, and being intentional about creating a shared vision for the future of the business. They also share practical tips for making the most of family gatherings while addressing important business matters.

Download our free guide, "The Family Connection Guide: Holiday Edition": https://transitionstrategists.com/holiday-connection-guide 

Chapters in this episode: 

(01:08) Family and the Holidays

(03:21) Navigating Conversations with Family Members In and Out of the Business

(05:11) Advice for Successors

(08:39) Clear Expectations and Communication

(09:54) Advice for the Matriarchs and Patriarchs

(12:12) Success Stories and Family Traditions

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux, Andrea Carpenter, and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists 

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/ 

Andrea on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreashaver 

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/ 

Transition Strategists on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transitionstrategists 

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player: 

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2 

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux 

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman’s latest book, "It’s A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv 

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com. 

Cody is a practical, visionary thinker and resourceful Transition Guide to business owners and successors. She brings 25-plus years of experience to each engagement in positioning key stakeholders to succeed in family-business transitions and designing executive succession strategies.

In this episode, Elizabeth and Cody explore the essential aspects of business transition planning, highlighting the importance of early preparation, clear communication, and a focus on the human element. Cody shares her insights on the challenges and successes of business transitions, emphasizing the need for courageous conversations and a willingness to let go. 

By addressing potential blind spots and offering practical advice, this episode provides business owners with the tools to navigate the complexities of transition planning and ensure a smooth handover to the next generation.

Learn more about Cody Teets and her work with the Transition Strategists: https://transitionstrategists.com/our-team/cody-teets/

Cody Teets on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/codyteets/ 

Chapters in this episode: 

(03:12) Cody's Passion for Business Transition

(07:22) Unveiling the Common Pitfalls in Business Transition

(11:17) The Physical and Emotional Well-being of the Transitioner

(16:51) The Successor's Journey: Pressure, Performance, and Expectations

(22:15) Leadership Styles and Their Impact on Business Transition

(26:40) The Importance of Open Communication 

(29:21) The Role of Family Dynamics in Business Transition

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists 

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/ 

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/ 

Transition Strategists on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transitionstrategists 

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player: 

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2 

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux 

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman’s latest book, "It’s A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv 

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com. 

Join Elizabeth on a monthly 50-minute online forum, “Collective Conversations”: https://transitionstrategists.co/collective-conversations 

Chapters in this episode: 

02:30 - Importance of Commitment in Business Transitions

07:14 - Exploring Commitment Phobia

12:42 - Shifting from Scarcity to Abundance Mindset

16:43 - Catalysts for Business Transition Decisions

20:11 - Invitation to Collective Conversations, by Elizabeth and the Transition Strategists

21:38 - Closing Thoughts on Urgency and Vision

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists 

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/ 

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/ 

Transition Strategists on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transitionstrategists 

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player: 

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2 

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux 

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman’s latest book, "It’s A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv 

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com. 

In this episode, Elizabeth and Andrew explore the following seven core values:

(1) People first.

(2) Independently accomplished and resourceful.

(3) Gracefully nimble.

(4) Positively playful.

(5) Curiously engaged.

(6) Quality achievers.

(7) Genuinely transparent.

If you want to skip ahead to a specific core value, here are the chapters in this episode: 

05:19 People first (core value #1)

07:58 Independently accomplished and resourceful (core value #2) 

13:15 Gracefully nimble (core value #3) 

15:19 Positively playful (core value #4) 

16:19 Curiously engaged (core value #5) 

18:23 Quality achievers (core value #6) 

21:21 Genuinely transparent (core value #7) 

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux, ​​Andrea Carpenter, and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists 

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/ 

Andrea on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreashaver 

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/ 

Transition Strategists on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transitionstrategists 

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player: 

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2 

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux 

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman’s latest book, "It’s A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv 

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com. 

In this episode, Elizabeth and Marcy discuss the importance of business governance in family-owned businesses during transitions. They emphasize that governance provides a structured framework for decision-making, fostering inclusivity and reducing personal friction. 

Marcy highlights that governance can take time to implement effectively, with a typical timeline of around 6 months for comfort and around a year for consistent use. Elizabeth adds that governance helps in slowing down decision-making to ensure all voices are heard and decisions are transparent. 

Connect with Marcy McNeal on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcy-mcneal/ 

Read Marcy’s profile: https://transitionstrategists.com/our-team/marcy-mcneal/ 

Chapters in this episode: 

4:00 Defining Business Governance 

4:37 Typical Governance Structures and Business Transition Challenges 

9:47 Family Dynamics 

12:24 Starting the Business Transition Process 

20:39 Decision Levels 

24:10 Implementing Board Governance 

28:55 Maintaining Family Relationships and Board Effectiveness 

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists 

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/ 

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/ 

Transition Strategists on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transitionstrategists 

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player: 

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2 

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux 

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman’s latest book, "It’s A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv 

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com. 

Elizabeth and Betsy discuss finding the cultural fit between the buyer and the business, prioritizing employee well-being, taking a long-term perspective, and embracing new opportunities.

Thank you to Betsy for being on the show. 

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists 

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/ 

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/ 

Transition Strategists on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transitionstrategists 

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player: 

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2 

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux 

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman’s latest book, "It’s A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv 

Chapters in this episode: 

6:30 Selling a privately-owned business after 10 years of growth. 

14:06 Leadership, decision-making, and succession planning in a business. 

18:32 Buying a business and due diligence. 

24:30 Selling a business and finding a new identity. 

29:58 Business transition and ownership with a focus on preparation, employees, and documentation. 

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com. 

They explore the roles of the "magician" owner and the "apprentice" successor, emphasizing the importance of curiosity, communication, and strategic planning. 

The conversation highlights the challenges and rewards of transitioning leadership, offering practical advice for maintaining healthy relationships and clear expectations. 

Join our free 90-minute “metamorphosis” workshop for family business owners, successors, and advisors, “From Complexity to Clarity: Navigating Your Family Business Transition Journey”: https://transitionstrategists.co/workshop 

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux, ​​Andrea Carpenter, and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists 

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/ 

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/ 

Transition Strategists on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transitionstrategists 

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player: 

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2 

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux 

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman’s latest book, "It’s A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv 

Chapters in this episode: 

0:01 Business succession and transition, with a focus on character and role changes for owners and successors. 

8:09 Leadership transition and communication. 

15:20 Leadership transition and the roles of the owner/leader and watcher/advisor. 

21:05 Challenges of succession planning in family businesses. 

25:15 Business transition planning for successors and owners. 

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com. 

On a practical level, this conversation reveals the importance of trust, communication, and transparency in potential partnerships and succession planning. 

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux, ​​Andrea Carpenter, and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists 

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/ 

Andrea on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreashaver 

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/ 

Transition Strategists on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transitionstrategists 

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player: 

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2 

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux 

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman’s latest book, "It’s A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv 

Chapters in this episode: 

0:02 Business valuation and potential partnership. 

6:09 Valuing a business for succession planning. 

11:03 Open communication between business owner and successor. 

15:58 Transparency and vulnerability in business partnership. 

21:15 Business negotiation strategies and transition planning. 

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com. 

Elizabeth and Andrea discuss the value of potentially collaborating together in business, their conversation invites listeners like you to ponder your situation and whether you, like Elizabeth, might want to start planning your own business transition or succession.

They also discuss the difficulties and opportunities that people face when planning business succession, plus conducting personality assessments to evaluate the fit—or lack of fit—between two potential business partners.

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux, ​​Andrea Carpenter, and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/

Andrea on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreashaver

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

Transition Strategists on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transitionstrategists

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player:

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman’s latest book, "It’s A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv

Chapters in this episode:

(0:01) Finding a successor.

(7:18) Finding the right business partner.

(11:57) Personality assessments and business succession planning.

(20:05) Business transition planning.

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com.

A business transition for a family can be fraught with issues, conflict, and challenges. Yet, with thoughtful planning, an attitude of gratitude, and Elizabeth’s checklist, your family business transition can be smooth and can create opportunities for people to learn, share, and grow together.

Download for free the “Family Business Transition Checklist”: http://transitionstrategists.com/44

Read Elizabeth’s article that she wrote for TIGER 21: “Intergenerational Transition of a Family Enterprise: A Checklist”: https://tiger21.com/insights/generational-family-business-transition/

This article runs through a checklist that includes:

Prioritizing healthy relationships.

Clarifying the enterprise’s culture and legacy.

Managing the distinction between family and enterprise relationships.

Establishing respect between and among generations.

Setting a vision for the future.

Acting with gratitude.

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

Transition Strategists on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transitionstrategists

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player:

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman’s latest book, "It’s A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com.

In this episode, Elizabeth and Adams discuss the challenges of transitioning a business, emphasizing the importance of understanding your objectives and desires and those of family members. With mergers and acquisitions, they explore the need to start the process early so you can prepare financially and gain a clearer understanding of your objectives. Elizabeth and Adams also discuss surrounding yourself with the right advisors and optimizing your company's value and performance.

Connect with Adams Price on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/adamsprice

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

Transition Strategists on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transitionstrategists

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player:

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman’s latest book, "It’s A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv

Chapters in this episode:

(0:02) Business succession planning for privately held businesses.

(6:15) Preparing businesses for sale or transition.

(12:08) Strategic planning, IP protection, and financial planning.

(18:14) Financial planning for business owners, including tax implications and investment strategies.

(25:20) Preparing businesses for sale, including valuation, performance, and market conditions.

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com.

Taking a structured approach can minimize disruptions and preserve the integrity and legacy of your business.

In this episode, Elizabeth explores three strategies business owners can take when planning to exit a business: liquidation; transitioning to an insider; and transitioning to a third party.

As Elizabeth mentions in this episode, you’re invited to go to https://transitionstrategists.com/42 and download our free “How Transaction Guide” that explores many of the topics of this episode.

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player:

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman’s latest book, "It’s A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com.

In this episode, Elizabeth and Michelle discuss the lifetime exemption, which is also known as the lifetime gift tax exemption and is the total amount of money or assets an individual can give to others over their lifetime without incurring gift tax. They discuss the impending halving of the lifetime exemption in US estate planning and the importance of understanding and utilizing these exemptions to minimize taxes and ensure a smooth transition for businesses and families. They also explore estate planning for business owners, particularly in regards to tax implications and family dynamics.

Connect with Michelle AmRhein on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/k-michelle-amrhein-a1071220/

Coan, Payton and Payne’s website: https://www.cp2law.com/

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player:

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman’s latest book, "It’s A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com.

In this episode, Elizabeth and Danielle discuss succession planning and business growth with a family-owned company. They also explore the challenges of succeeding a business owner, including lack of clarity and communication. Danielle also opens up about the challenges of transitioning a business, including the emotional toll on the shareholders and the need for vulnerability and open communication.

Thank you to Danielle Scimeca for being on the show.

Connect with Danielle Scimeca on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-scimeca-esq-519604279/

FCT Water’s website: https://fctwater.com/

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player:

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman’s latest book, "It’s A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com.

After thirty as a tax and legal advisor to wealthy families, John pivoted to pursue his passion of assisting clients transition their wealth more purposefully. With the Purposeful Planning Institute, John works with clients and their advisors to ensure that the impact of their planning will positively impact future generations.

In this episode, Elizabeth and John discuss John’s passion for purposeful planning and business transition strategies. They also explore transitioning a business with a cabinet of advisors, transitioning a business with a founder who wants to maintain involvement, why we shouldn’t view a business transition as strictly a financial event, and much more.

Connect with John A. Warnick on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-john-a-warnick-7044503b/

Learn more about John’s work with the Purposeful Planning Institute: https://purposefulplanninginstitute.com/john-a-warnick/

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player:

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman’s latest book, "It’s A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com.

Nelisha and Elizabeth delve into the intricacies of financial planning and estate management for business owners. Nelisha shares personal anecdotes, stressing the importance of establishing trust and relationships with financial advisors early on. She also emphasizes the need for business owners to diversify their wealth beyond their primary business to mitigate over-reliance on a single income source. The conversation also explores building a team for business succession and retirement planning, emphasizing the role of successors for smooth business transitions.

Connect with Nelisha Firestone on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nelisha-firestone/

Learn more about the Firestone Financial Group: https://www.firestonefingroup.com/

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and the Transition Strategists:

- Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

- Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/

- Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player:

- Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

- Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman’s latest book, "It’s A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com.

In this episode, Elizabeth and Andrea discuss their new Big Six Program, which helps business owners think about their business transition and plan for the future. They explore the six critical questions that every owner must answer when considering a business transition:

WHY? —Why do you want to transition your business?

WHAT? — What do you have and want to transition?

WHO? — Who will succeed you in ownership?

WHEN? — When will the transition begin and end?

HOW? — How will the transfer be structured?

HOW MUCH? — How much do you need for your ownership interest?

They also discuss proven tools that deliver successful results for owners, families, and businesses going through a business transition.

Learn more about the Big 6 Program featured in this episode: https://transitionstrategists.com/big6/

Connect with Andrea Carpenter on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreashaver/

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player:

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman’s latest book, "It’s A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com.

Mark shares his insights on legacy preservation and wealth transfer strategies. He also shares his personal experience with succession planning, including the importance of having an advisory board to hold him accountable.

Elizabeth and Mark also discuss how life insurance can play a crucial role in legacy preservation for ultra-affluent individuals and business owners. They also discuss the challenge of selecting a trustee for a multigenerational trust, as it requires identifying someone who can make decisions that align with the grantor's intent while also maintaining strong relationships with beneficiaries.

Connect with Mark Richards on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-richards-6472639/

Learn more about the Winged Keel Group: https://www.wingedkeel.com/

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player:

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman’s latest book, "It’s A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com.

In this episode, Elizabeth and Alina discuss lessons Alina learned after merging two companies, the importance of committing to decisions and not flip-flopping, watching the sign-posts for when it’s the right time to sell your business, and the need for planning what you’re going to do after you sell your business.

Alina Martin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alinamartin/

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player:

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman’s latest book, "It’s A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com.

Elizabeth and Josh discuss his decades working in his own family office and as an advisor to other families and family offices, the need to connect legacy planning and estate planning, plus Josh’s leafplanner program that helps families capture, collect, map, and share their information for future generations.

In this episode, Josh mentions the following previous episodes:

The Greatest Wealth Transfer: Ensuring Success in Family Business Transition, with Doug Johnson: https://bit.ly/BTR-Doug-Johnson

The Role Of Emotional Intelligence In Ensuring Successful Business Transitions, with Marcy McNeal: https://bit.ly/BTR-Marcy-McNeal

Wealth Transition Planning, with Brannon Fisher: https://bit.ly/BTR-Brannon-Fisher

Connect with Josh Kanter on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-kanter/

Website for leafplanner: https://leafplanner.com/

Follow leafplanner on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/leafplanner/

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player:

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman’s latest book, "It’s A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com.

In this episode, Elizabeth and Kyle discuss his journey from part-time personal trainer to COO to CEO. They explore challenges of CEO successions, trust in partnerships, and the dynamic of sharing responsibility, with a focus on alignment and accountability. Recchia also reflects on the high learning curve of leadership transitions and highlights his commitment to personal and professional growth. The episode also delves into challenges of ownership transitions and the importance of open communication.

Learn more about Kyle Recchia’s company, The Perfect Workout: https://www.theperfectworkout.com/

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player:

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman’s latest book, "It’s A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com.

In this episode, Elizabeth and Caio discuss the challenges and opportunities related to the succession planning process, the importance of a trusted advisor in facilitating communication between the owner and successor in a family business transition, and the shift in mindset for business owners transitioning to a new generation of leaders, from taking full control to trusting the process and building trust in the successor.

Thanks to Caio Campello for being on the show. Check with Caio on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caio-campello-de-menezes/

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player:

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman’s latest book, "It’s A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com.

In this episode, Elizabeth and Doug discuss the importance of communities thriving forward, particularly in the context of family businesses. They also explore the challenges of knowledge transfer in family businesses, highlighting the need for a well-thought-out plan to pass on not just financial wealth but also the wisdom and experience crucial for success. They also touch on topics such as generational wealth transfer, the value of a long runway for succession planning, and the delicate balance between maintaining traditions and allowing for innovation in business.

Doug Johnson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dougwjohnson/

Learn about TIGER21, a global peer membership organization for ultra-high-net-worth entrepreneurs, investors, and executives: https://tiger21.com/

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player:

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman’s latest book, "It’s A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com.

James shares how his family got started in the seafood business in the early 1900s, including how his grandpa as a teenager pushed a cart around Denver selling oysters that had been trained in from Seattle.

James and Elizabeth also dive into the pressure of being a successor in a family business and the challenges James faced balancing his vision with his company’s established path.

Connect with James Iacino on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesiacino/

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player:

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman’s latest book, "It’s A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com.

In this episode, Elizabeth and Jay discuss the importance of having a clear timeline for your career, especially as you get older and closer to retirement. They also explore the need to make the most of our limited time left and to prioritize our passions and goals, rather than simply continuing to work for the sake of it.

They also talk about how passing on knowledge and experience to successors is key to a successful business transition.

Connect with Jay on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaynrollins/ 

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists 

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/ 

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/ 

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player: 

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2 

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux 

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman’s latest book, "It’s A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv 

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com. 

Elizabeth and her team at The Transition Strategists often start the process with learning about their client’s values. From there, they explore what the client wants for their future, and how they want their assets—be it their estate and/or their business—to transition to other people. All of this feeds into what Elizabeth calls a roadmap, which is a way for her clients to visualize and attain their financial goals. 

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and The Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists 

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/ 

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/ 

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player: 

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2 

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux 

Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/BTR-Google-Podcasts 

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman latest book, "It’s A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv 
This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com.

Elizabeth and Marcy explore various aspects of how social and emotional intelligence pertains to business transitions. Social and emotional intelligence involves more than just self-awareness; it's about accurate self-assessment and understanding how your behavior affects others. To understand the underlying reasons for your emotions and be mindful of how your behavior impacts others, it’s important to seek feedback from colleagues and team members.

Social and emotional intelligence plays a vital role in business transitions. For those leaving a role, being aware of the impact on others and fostering transparency and open communication are crucial. Those stepping into new roles must be adaptable, open to coaching, and mindful of building trust with existing team members.

Connect with Marcy McNeal on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcy-mcneal/ 

Read Marcy’s profile: https://transitionstrategists.com/our-team/marcy-mcneal/ 

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists 

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/ 

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/ 

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player: 

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2 

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux 

Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/BTR-Google-Podcasts 

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman latest book, "It’s A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv 

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com.

In this episode, Brandon shares his unconventional journey from being a high school English teacher to becoming a certified financial planner, and how he helps families navigate the complexities of wealth management and business transition.

Elizabeth and Brannan also discuss the significance of setting clear financial goals and strategies, navigating family dynamics and legacy wealth, and the emotional challenges faced by business owners post-sale.

Visit the Simon Quick Advisors website: https://simonquickadvisors.com/ 

Brannon Fisher on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brannon-fisher-cfp%C2%AE-b45a2b2/ 

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists 

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/ 

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/ 

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player: 

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2 

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux 

Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/BTR-Google-Podcasts 

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman latest book, "It’s A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv 

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com. 

In this episode, Elizabeth and Tom discuss how he got into financial planning and investment advice, his open heart surgery and triple bypass, starting FirstWave Financial, and the importance of understanding what you want with a business transition. 

They also discuss Laura Chiesman, the president of FirstWave Financial and co-author (with Elizabeth) of “It’s A Journey – The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning,” which you can learn more about at https://transitionstrategists.com/books/ 

Tom is a Personal Financial Specialist (PFS), which is a certification for Certified Practicing Accountants (CPAs). 

Learn more about Tom on FirstWave Financial’s website: https://firstwavefinancial.com/team-members/tom-kirk/ 

Connect with Tom on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomaslkirk 

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists 

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/ 

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/ 

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player: 

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2 

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux 

Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/BTR-Google-Podcasts 

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman latest book, "It’s A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv 

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com.

In this episode, Elizabeth and Eric discuss various strategies for business owners navigating business transitions and ensuring tax efficiency. Eric shares his insights as a tax professional, highlighting key considerations when transferring ownership from one generation to the next. They explore the importance of planning, tax implications of different sale methods, and creating a sustainable wealth-building plan for successors.

Be sure to listen to this episode to learn from Eric’s expertise in tax consulting and planning, evaluation and financial modeling of possible business ventures, and tax compliance. 

Connect with Eric Lake: 

Website: https://singerlewak.com/employee/eric-lake/ 

Eric on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-lake-46618524/ 

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists 

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/ 

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/ 

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player: 

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2 

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux 

Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/BTR-Google-Podcasts 

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman latest book, "It’s A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv 

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com. 

In this episode, Elizabeth and Ned discuss the value of businesses and the importance of planning for exit strategies. They emphasize the need for business owners to understand the worth of their businesses and how to transition them into the hands of others. 

Ned also emphasizes the importance of involving key employees and family members in the decision-making process. Perhaps msot importantly, Ned urges business owners to start visualizing their lives after the sale, with financial security and a sense of fulfillment.

Connect with Ned Minor: 

Website: https://www.minorbrown.com/ 

Ned on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nedminor/ 

Ned's book, Deciding to Sell the Key to Wealth and Freedom: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0965573192 

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists 

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/ 

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/ 

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player: 

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2 

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux 

Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/BTR-Google-Podcasts 

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman's latest book, "It’s A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv 

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com.

In this episode, Elizabeth and Doug discuss the following question (which many owners who are planning to pass their business onto the two or three kids hear): “Who’s going to be the CEO?” Doug also dives into his personal views on the importance of succession planning and coaching. They also explore what worked and what didn’t work with Doug’s real-life example of transitioning his company to children. 

Visit the website for Damon Industries: http://damonq.com/ 

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists 

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/ 

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/ 

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player: 

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2 

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux 

Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/BTR-Google-Podcasts 

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman latest book, "It’s A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv 

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com. 

In this episode, Elizabeth and Dawn talk about the importance of financial planning, building successful businesses, and transitioning out of them. They also explore the impact of mismanagement and failed financial planning in businesses, the benefits of the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) for business owners, and the importance of looking at the positives and celebrating successes rather than overfocusing on gaps and challenges. 

Connect with Dawn Abbott: 

Learn more about Dawn’s coaching consultancy, Abbott Coaching: https://abbottcoach.com/ 

Learn more about how to plan a fun, stress-free event for people over 25 years old by visiting Dawn’s Fun Productions website: https://funproductions.com/  

Dawn on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawnabbott 

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists 

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/ 

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/ 

Subscribe to "The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux" on your favorite podcast player: 

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2 

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux 

Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/BTR-Google-Podcasts 

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman latest book, "It’s A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning": https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv 
This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com.

In this episode, Elizabeth and Steve discuss the importance of preparing for your transition and building a team that can take over your business operations. Steve shares information about the books he's written on buying and selling businesses. He also emphasizes the need for business owners to have a plan and a bigger purpose in life to fulfill before transitioning out of their business. 

Connect with Steve Denny and Innovative Business Advisors: 

Website: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-denny-iba/ 

Steve on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-denny-iba/ 

Steve is the author of “You Don't Know What You Don't Know: A Step-by-Step Guide for Getting the Most from the Sale of Your Business” and “You Don't Know What You Don't Know: Building a Million-Dollar Home Staging Business and Selling It for Top Dollar.” Get Steve’s books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Steven-Denny/author/B08ZH72S8J 

Connect with Elizabeth Ledoux and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists 

Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethledoux/ 

Transition Strategists on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/ 

Subscribe to “The Business Transition Roadmap with Elizabeth Ledoux” on your favorite podcast player: 

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3MxSYA2 

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IhMMux 

Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/BTR-Google-Podcasts 

Get Elizabeth Ledoux and Laura Chiesman latest book, “It’s A Journey: The MUST-HAVE Roadmap to Successful Succession Planning”: https://amzn.to/3oq2LQv 
This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com.

You’ll get Debbie’s insight on the leadership skills needed to successfully transition out of a company, as well as the leadership skills a successor needs to take over. She’ll share some amazing success stories from past clients whose leadership abilities led to a successful transition.

Connect with Debbie: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/changeagent-coach-facilitator-deborah-davis-ms-pcc/ 

Connect with Elizabeth and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/ 
This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com.

You’ll get the perspectives of two business transition experts as Elizabeth and Marcy discuss the transition journeys they’ve worked on throughout the years, what makes some transitions more successful than others, and how the businesses that they’ve helped are essential to their surrounding communities. 

Connect with Marcy: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcy-mcneal/ 

Connect with Elizabeth and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/ 
This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com.

You’ll get the full story of founding Clergy Advantage to transitioning out of a successful business. Sherrye and Steve share their roles, responsibilities, and strategies during this transition and give great insight into running, growing, and exiting a thriving business with your spouse.

Connect with Sherrye and Steve:

Clergy Advantage Website: https://www.clergysupport.com/

Connect with Elizabeth and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com.

You’ll get Lance’s advice on transitioning out of a company you founded, hear stories of the clients he advised and the business lessons he learned from them, and understand what differentiates a thoughtful, successful transition from a failed one. 

Connect with Lance: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lance-barrett-5610747/ 

Website: barrett-cpa.com

Connect with Elizabeth and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/ 

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com. 

You’ll get to hear about the details of Kelly’s very recent transition and about some of the situations she has seen in her work with family law when businesses are involved. She’ll share what works and what doesn’t, and why planning ahead and thinking out the what-ifs is always the way to go. 

Connect with Kelly: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-robinson-5882ba4/ 

Connect with Elizabeth and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/ 
This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com.

You’ll get to hear about the transition journey that Dianne and Elizabeth have gone through over the last five years of working together, including creating opportunities for others to learn, balancing business relationships, learning to be more intentional, and bringing clarity to the journey by narrowing in on what you’re really trying to build for the future.

Connect with Dianne:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diannenolin/

Website: argentbridge.com

Connect with Elizabeth and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com.

In this episode, Elizabeth discusses the fear that almost every business owner has when it comes to communicating about their business transition. She’ll talk about where these fears come from, and offer up 5 solutions that will help you to talk to and communicate with the people within your business, and also potentially even outside of the business as you go through your transition journey.

Connect with Elizabeth and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com.

You’ll get to hear the story of Beth’s business transition journey from buying in 2000 to selling in 2023 as they discuss the challenges that came with stepping into a leadership role without any background in the industry, and also the incredible rewards that have come from overcoming those challenges.

Connect with Beth:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethhoffblackmer

Connect with Elizabeth and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com.

Together, they’ll discuss the successes and challenges with both of these transitions and what the experience was like through Jennifer’s eyes. They’ll also discuss some important lessons that Jennifer learned along her journey and how much it means to hear other business owners’ stories of transition as you embark on your own.

Connect with Jennifer:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-tibbetts-9733755/

Website: mountainfamilycenter.org

Connect with Elizabeth and the Transition Strategists:

Website: https://transitionstrategists.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransitionstrategists

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transitionstrategists/

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.successwithstories.com.