Being a woman in a family business brings a unique dynamic.

“You’re often both a business leader and an emotional leader. You’re a support for the employees, for the family, children, spouses; there are so many hats women tend to wear in a family business,” said Stephanie Larscheid, executive director of the Prairie Family Business Association.

“So we were happy to offer a chance to allow them to step away for a few days from all those roles they’re playing and have them invest in themselves.”

The first-ever Women’s Leadership Retreat organized by the Prairie Family Business Association was held recently over four days in Tampa, Florida.

“It was intentional to get on a plane and go somewhere else, to get out of your backyard and the distractions that might surround you there,” Larscheid said.

The idea for the retreat came from female business leaders who are part of the Prairie Family Business Association and wanted to see programming for women in leadership, after they were inspired by hearing AmyK Hutchens, founder of AmyK International and an award-winning author, speaker and coach specializing in leadership and communication.

Hutchens, who is based in San Diego, served as facilitator for the retreat, which drew 13 women ranging in age from 30 to 70 from South Dakota, North Dakota and Minnesota.

“They represented varying business sizes and industries, and all had a role within the business – whether it was day to day or on the board or both,” Larscheid said. “We did a pre-coaching call with Amy, and then the retreat was structured as interactive sessions.”

Topics covered included energy, engagement, team meetings, connection, conflict resolution, self-empowerment, collaboration and change.

“This leadership retreat provided tools for women to be the best versions of themselves,” Larscheid said.

“From magical phrases, to structuring a conversation, to leading with love, the goal was to ensure these women are equipped for today and all that lies ahead.”

Hutchens approached the topics with a background in neuroscience, helping give effective tools to create change both internally and within an organization.

“These powerhouse women committed four days to their own growth so they could return with sharper vision, greater confidence and a renewed ability to drive profitability and impact,” she said.

“For leaders, stepping away isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity. When you take the time to reflect, recharge and realign, you don’t just grow – you return ready to lead with renewed purpose and unstoppable momentum.”

The retreat used immersive experiences such as role-playing conflict, harnessing collective intelligence in communication and innovation exercises, and even used breath work to reset instead of react.

“They strengthened their ability to navigate leadership with greater ease and brilliance,” Hutchens said.

“Beyond business, they deepened their self-awareness, refined their decision-making and embraced the kind of leadership that inspires lasting change. The ripple effect of this evolution is tangible. Game-changing. Priceless.”

The retreat “was amazing,” said Tiffany Anderson, vice president of administration at A-OX Welding Supply.

“It has reminded me that there are many women out there like us with the same issues and brought us together to work on the problems that we all face every day.”

Stephanie Taylor, second-generation member of Sydell Inc., agreed.

“The retreat has refueled my spirit and given me the tools I need to move forward the way I want to move forward,” she said.

The cohort of women bonded so well they plan to do a follow-up event together. They all also will receive follow-up coaching from Hutchens and will meet before the Prairie Family Business Association annual conference April 30-May 1 at the Canopy by Hilton in downtown Sioux Falls.

Hutchens also will deliver one of the conference’s keynote speeches, focused on innovation and the tools you need to lead your company into a high-growth year.

“I could see us hosting another retreat for women at some point, and I really like that this was a program by request that was driven by our members,” Larscheid said.

“The coaching AmyK has given them is going to get them over some obstacles that have held them back for years in some cases. She’s giving what they need to get over the hump and get to their next level.”

If you’re a female family business member interested in learning more about the resources of the Prairie Family Business Association, email stephanie.larscheid@usd.edu.

Hear from AmyK Hutchens and other outstanding speakers at the Prairie Family Business Association annual conference. Family businesses, learn more and sign up here.