From how family businesses are structuring their transitions to what to know about having tough conversations, you’ll get an unfiltered look from families in the latest season of “Family Business Connection.”

This podcast, produced by Prairie Family Business Association, is launching its second season and offers compelling stories from relatable families designed to inspire and assist others.

“The lessons in these episodes are unique and can be replicated in other family businesses,” said Stephanie Larscheid, executive director of Prairie Family Business Association.

“The families in the first two episodes have been engaged with Prairie Family Business for more than five years. There has been considerable maturing of business structure and overall growth of business with both of these families. They are examples of family businesses who have put time and effort into working on their business, and they have received tangible business results.”

“The first two episodes feature next gens who are still working with the leading generation,” Larscheid said.

“In addition to two generations working side by side, these next gens are also working with siblings and married-ins. There are a lot of valuable insights shared about their approach, which helps their business and family thrive through generations.”

She suggests families listen to the episodes before their next family meetings. If you are a family business and want a guide on holding family meetings, check out Prairie Family Business Association’s family meeting agenda.

Listen in

Here’s a preview of the first three episodes:

• Building a legacy together: Megan Green, Weiler

Megan Green, chief financial officer and general counsel of Iowa-based manufacturer Weiler, shares her journey stepping into the family business and the importance of clear communication, intentional succession planning and peer support.

Listen here.

• Build from the ground up: Abby Woodford, Interim HealthCare

Abby Woodford, vice president and chief operating officer of Sioux Falls-based Interim HealthCare, shares how leadership, culture and communication facilitate effective succession planning.

Listen here.



• How to be a great board member: Michaela Bearden and Angelika Olsen of InnerWill

Michaela Bearden and Angelika Olsen of InnerWill share how board members can support family businesses through relationship, humility and hard questions.

Listen here.

Additional episodes will be released in the coming weeks.

And if you missed Season 1, find those 10 episodes here.  

Have an idea?

“Family Business Connection” welcomes family business stories!

“Our listeners take away action items from both successes and failures, so we welcome any family business story submission,” Larscheid said.

Send submissions to fba@usd.edu, or give us a call at 605-274-9530.