Education

Legacy in Action: Succession and Estate Planning Made Practical is a panel discussion designed to help family business leaders proactively tackle one of their most critical challenges — transitioning ownership and leadership while preserving both the business and family relationships. Featuring experienced family business leaders and trusted advisors, the session covers key topics including next-generation leadership preparation, balancing family dynamics with business realities, estate planning considerations, and effective communication of transition plans. Whether a business transition is years away or already in motion, attendees will leave with real-world lessons, practical strategies, and actionable takeaways to protect their legacy and ensure long-term business continuity. ... read more

After several years of significant federal tax developments, the focus is shifting from understanding new legislation to applying the rules now in place. This session will highlight the current tax landscape and practical year-end planning considerations for family and closely held businesses including owner and entity-level planning, business growth, succession, and transaction readiness. ... read more

Stepping into a leadership role within a family business comes with a unique set of opportunities and challenges. How do next-generation leaders earn credibility, honor the legacy that came before them, and still make their own mark on the business? Hear from Tony Capuano, Shelby Sutphen, and Jared Ricart, representing three Central Ohio family businesses with their own histories, cultures, and approaches to generational leadership. Moderated by John Broer, principal and co-founder of Real Good Ventures, this conversation will explore what it takes to prepare for leadership, navigate family dynamics, build trust across generations, and balance continuity with change. The panelists will share candid perspectives from next-generation family business leaders and leave with practical ideas for developing and supporting the next generation within their own organizations. ... read more

Artificial intelligence is changing how businesses operate, communicate, and compete, but where does it realistically fit within a family business? Thor Hess and Patrick Wathen will share their perspectives on navigating AI and emerging technology within the context of family-owned businesses. Joined by an AI specialist from J.P. Morgan, the conversation will focus on practical applications, opportunities, risks, and the questions family business leaders should be asking as AI becomes increasingly integrated into the workplace. ?Expect an approachable, practical discussion designed to help family businesses identify where AI can add value while considering governance, security, people, and the long-term needs of the business. ... read more

For family businesses, building the workforce of the future isn't just about filling today's open positions. It's about developing the people, skills, leadership, and culture needed to carry the business into its next generation. Hear from family business leaders including Shawn Anderson of Anderson Concrete and John Brooks of BTTS as they discuss how they are approaching today's workforce challenges while preparing their organizations for the future. Lorrie Diaz of Clark Schaefer Hackett will moderate the conversation. The panel will explore recruiting and retaining talent, unique and innovative compensation structures, developing future leaders, transferring institutional knowledge, and adapting to changing employee expectations. They will share how family businesses are thinking creatively about compensation and benefits, career development, and workplace culture to compete for talent while creating an environment where both family and non-family employees can build meaningful, long-term careers. ... read more