Things I Wish I Would Have Known Everyone has at least one lesson they learned the hard way that they wish they would have known before joining or starting a family business. Good or bad, happy or sad, our panelists will discuss those things that a crystal ball might have helped them with along the way. Join us for this candid discussion with: Steve Harmon - second generation President of Spartan Logistics. We'll find out what advice he gave his own son when he officially joined the family business and what Steve wishes he'd known - and maybe had done differently - when he joined Spartan 20+ years ago. Angela Petro - Founder & CEO of Together & Company and Sweet Carrot. She will let us in on the ups and downs of her family business journey and lessons she learned along the way. Donovan Wahl is a second generation family member of Classic Plumbing who recently decided to leave the family business. Donovan will discuss why she chose to enter - and exit - and the things she wishes she'd have known from the start. Facilitated by Jim Bishop, Morgan Stanley Generously sponsored by Huntington Bank ... read more

Succession happens whether planned for or not. It is therefore imperative that family-owned businesses go through thoughtful, strategic succession planning if they are going to transition smoothly from generation to generation ? and the process isn?t always easy! It?s also never too early to start thinking about succession because it is indeed a marathon and not a sprint! Our panelists will discuss their approach to succession planning: detours and all! Panelists: Luconda Dager, President, Velvet Ice Cream Tom Mosure, Chairman of the Board, ms consultants, inc. Steve Wathen, CEO, Equity Patrick Wathen, President, Equity Facilitated by Meredith Sugar, Taft/ ... read more