What does it take to transform a small family business into a major player in the beverage industry? Discover the incredible legacy of NorCal Beverage, beginning with Shannon Deary-Bell's grandfather, who turned his Coca-Cola salesmanship into the entrepreneurial foundation of Hires Bottling in 1937. You'll hear the story of Shannon's father and uncle, who made the courageous decision to sell their profitable stocks to protect the family business and its employees, embodying a people-first philosophy that has defined NorCal's journey and continuing legacy. You'll also hear of the tenacity and determination of Shannon as a young manager having to deal with the complexity of "busting" a union that misrepresented itself to the employees. Her pursuit of what was the right thing to do, let to a much greater acceptance from her employees and family alike.

Uncover the strategic genius behind NorCal's significant pivot in 2007, when the company shifted focus from bottling popular brands like Dr. Pepper and Snapple to co-packing. This bold move led to lucrative partnerships with major brands like Arizona Tea, Red Bull, Monster, and Gatorade, propelling NorCal to new heights. We delve into how Shannon's insistence for a particular seat at luncheon led to a critical meeting with the CEO of Red Bull in France that opened doors to substantial opportunities, highlighting the company's resilience and adaptability in the face of industry challenges.

Finally, we explore the complexities of family business dynamics, focusing on succession planning, leadership transitions, and the difficult and emotional decision to sell the business during the COVID-19 pandemic. Hear Shannon's son Riley, explain his personal account of returning to the family fold to save jobs and his reflections on the pressures and rewards of taking on a leadership role in a newly developed company. Shannon and Riley discuss the importance of personal accountability, hard work, and seizing growth opportunities while maintaining a people-centered approach. Dedication and passion continue to drive their new venture setting the stage of familial business success once again.

To learn more about NC Equipment Solutions visit https://nceqs.com/
or you can contact them at:
Dispatch & General Inquiries: (916) 372-7700; fsd@NCEQS.com
Accounts Receivables: (916) 374-2657; AR@NCEQS.com
Accounts Payables: (916) 372 7700 ext. 2436; AP@NCEQS.com

Episode Highlights
(05:32 - 06:00) The Power of Community
(13:57 - 15:01) Trust and Communication in Relationships
(18:14 - 19:19) Meeting Red Bull CEO in France
(21:59 - 23:40) Succession Planning for Company Presidency
(25:58 - 27:02) Father-Son Relationship and Business Sale
(32:51 - 34:20) Company Restructuring Saves Jobs
(37:46 - 39:09) Family Business Responsibilities and Rewards
(44:25 - 45:41) Navigating Entrepreneurship at a Young Age

Chapter Summaries
(00:00) Building a Family Business Legacy
NorCal Beverage's history, family commitment, and employee safeguarding, from Shannon's grandfather's vision to her taking over the business.

(15:03) Succession Planning and Co-Packing Success
NorCal Beverage's strategic pivot to co-packing led to partnerships with Arizona Tea, Red Bull, Monster, and Gatorade, driving growth and resilience.

(23:06) Navigating Family Business Sale and Transition
Selecting the next president of a family business, selling during COVID-19, and aligning with company values.

(33:16) Business Transition and Family Values
Riley, a recent business management graduate, joins family business to lead equipment solutions division and support empl

Can you imagine hopping freight trains across the country to build a business empire during one of the toughest times in American history? Join your host, Natalie Mariani-Kling, as she welcomes David Lawson, President of Lawson Mechanical, who recounts the extraordinary story of his grandfather, transforming from a resilient South Dakota youth into the founder of Sacramento's leading mechanical construction firm. From surviving the Great Depression to learning essential trades during World War II, this is a narrative of ambition and tenacity that laid the groundwork for a multimillion-dollar enterprise.

David shares the rich history of Lawson Mechanical, spanning three generations of leadership and innovation. The discussion covers the unique skills each generation brought to the table—from his grandfather's pioneering business strategies to his father's expertise in mechanical systems and people management. David's own path, marked by a blend of political acumen and historical insight, showcases a modern approach to maintaining and growing a family business. This episode is not only a deep dive into the critical moments that forged their legacy but also a testament to the transformative power of education and early exposure to industry.

Navigating the complexities of leadership transitions within a family business is no small feat. David opens up about the emotional and practical challenges he faced moving from a political career to operations management, eventually becoming the president of Lawson Mechanical. Natalie explores the delicate balance of supporting a cohesive company culture while empowering family members to find their own paths. Using Lawson Mechanical as a lens, the conversation moves to the broader implications of what truly defines a family business versus a business owned by a family, highlighting how meaningful contributions from multiple families strengthen the organization's identity. This is an insightful conversation about preserving purpose and navigating the intricate balance of family and business.

To learn more about Lawson Mechanical visit: https://www.lawsonmechanical.com/contact/
For more information about the Family Business Center visit: Capital Region Family Business Center website
To learn more about how our sponsor, River City Bank may help your family business, visit website: River City Bank

Chapter Summaries
(00:00) Legacy of Lawson Mechanical Firm
David Lawson shares his grandfather's journey from South Dakota to California, and how their family business evolved over 80 years.

(08:45) Generational Business Success and Growth
Three generations of a family business, with a foundation in management, mechanical systems, and community projects.

(15:12) Navigating Leadership Transitions in Family Business
Navigating California politics, transitioning to operations management in a family business, and finding purpose as president.

(28:16) Family Business Success and Culture
Challenges and responsibilities in a family business, proving worth, unique perspectives, cohesive culture, and working on the business.

(39:26) Defining Family vs Business Ownership
Family business vs. business owned by family, using Lawson Mechanical as a case study, embracing multiple families to strengthen identity.

HIGHLIGHTS
(04:37 - 05:25) Gas Station Ledger Reflections Over Time
(10:51 - 11:44) Legacy of Strong Employee Relationships
(14:11 - 15:11) Benefits of Grad School in Career
(17:15 - 18:34) Family Business Traditions and Growth
(22:45 - 24:05) Navigating Family Business Succession Challenges
(29:00 - 30:47) Family Business Succession Planning
(34:15 - 35:22) Legacy of Excellence in Business
(41:38 - 42:27) Fam

Today's episode displays a wonderful tale of a company's heart and soul as Don Clark, the second-generation co-leader of the family-operated Clark Pacific, takes us behind the scenes of a business that has stood the test of time. Here's your opportunity to learn from a legacy of innovation and resilient leadership as we follow the company's transformation from its early days as a manufacturer of prefab construction products to a robust pillar in the construction industry. Don's account of his and his brother's ascent to the ranks of co-CEOs, under the guiding influence of their father's fervor, is not just a story—it's an inspiring blueprint for nurturing a family business across the decades.

Venture with us into the core of family-centric leadership, where work-life harmony paints the daily canvas, and discover the delicate dance of co-running a company with a sibling. As Don describes the art of balancing brotherhood with business, we uncover the value of external coaching and the far-reaching impact it has on preserving family ties within the company framework. This episode is not merely an overview; it's an insightful guide into the intricacies of multi-generational success and the strategies that have fortified Clark Pacific's familial foundation.

Our discussion reaches a crescendo as we celebrate the innate strengths that give family businesses an edge over corporate behemoths. Don passionately illustrates how a culture of care and personal support not only cements long-term careers but also fosters an environment where employees thrive like family. If you've ever wondered about the ingredients that make family enterprises resilient through economic ebbs and flows, this episode serves up the answers, highlighting how they adapt, support, and triumph through each challenge. Join us for a heartening exploration into the world of family business, where every success is built on the shoulders of shared values and strong relationships.


For more information on Clark Pacific, you can visit their website: https://www.clarkpacific.com/

For more information about the Family Business Center visit: Capital Region Family Business Center website

To learn more about how our sponsor, River City Bank may help your family business, visit their website: River City Bank

Join us on this fascinating journey through the history and heart of Bogle Family Vineyards, as our guest Jody Bogle takes us back to her family's roots in the Sacramento River Delta. Discover how six generations of farming evolved into a renowned winemaking legacy, beginning with a serendipitous pivot from potatoes to Petite Sirah and Chenin Blanc grapes. Jody recounts the Bogle family's resilience through the Great Depression, their strategic foray into viticulture, and the birth of their own wine label, illustrating the powerful blend of luck, strategic shifts, and familial collaboration that has crafted the Bogle success story.

Listen in as we traverse the intimate path of Bogle Vineyards, from Jodi's nostalgic childhood in the rural serenity of Clarksburg to the vineyard's expansion and commitment to sustainability. This conversation celebrates the lessons of hard work, the influence of matriarchal leadership, and the role of family dynamics in the business. Hear about the inception of new wine brands that cater to modern tastes and sustainability, including the innovative 'Elemental Wines' with its eco-friendly aluminum bottles, all while maintaining the ethos of quality and value cherished by the Bogle family.

Wrapping up our discussion, we candidly address the intricacies of being a female leader in the wine industry. Jody shares her experiences balancing career and home life, the importance of a family-first culture within the workplace, and the unique perspectives women bring to leadership. Her insights offer guidance and inspiration to women navigating their professional journeys, emphasizing the enriching nature of integrating personal and professional roles. Listen for a heartening blend of storytelling, family heritage, and entrepreneurial spirit that has defined the Bogle family's enduring legacy. And of course, enjoy the story with a nice glass of wine.

To learn more visit: Bogle Family Vineyards.

For more information about the Family Business Center visit: Capital Region Family Business Center website

To learn more about how our sponsor, River City Bank may help your family business, visit their website: River City Bank

Growing up with the backdrop of a small Japanese village, Taro's yearning for freedom and acceptance was a seed that would eventually blossom into an American dream. Alongside his son Koki, Taro shares how he saved enough money from a paper route to fly his whole family to America as a teenager. He talks about how his father had a dream they should open a restaurant and how a chance encounter with a Japanese businessman landed them investment money which allowed them to fulfill that dream.

With no experience running a restaurant and nearly no research into location, food costs, equipment costs or restaurant management, the family launched Mikuni 36 years ago. Even while plagued by debt and mistakes, Taro’s infectious energy and his commitment to make customers feel welcome and satisfied helped Mikuni to grow into one of the best known and loved restaurants in northern California.

This is a story of family dynamics, demonstrating how personal growth and business acumen can harmonize beautifully and how to balance work with the joys of familial connection. Taro recounts the family's expansion, the trials of partnership and ownership, and the resilience instilled by his father. As we look toward the family's aspiration of reaching 50 locations by their 50th anniversary, the sense of optimism is palpable. This episode isn't just about growth; it's homage to the relentless pursuit of big dreams and the community spirit that turns them into reality.

For more details about Mikuni Sushi visit http://www.mikunisushi.com

For more information about the Family Business Center visit: Capital Region Family Business Center website

To learn more about how our sponsor, River City Bank may help your family business, visit their website: River City Bank

Discover the incredible transformation of Roy and Ryan Hill, the sibling duo behind Elite Service Experts, as they share their tale of turning a period of near hopelessness into a flourishing family legacy. Their father's daring decision to purchase his former employer's equipment and transition to serving an established customer base set the groundwork for what would become a testament to entrepreneurial resilience. This episode peels back the layers of their journey, from facing the hardships of leadership within a family to the powerful words of encouragement that shifted a moment of grief into a drive for success.

The delicate balance of personal and professional roles that Roy and Ryan have developed came at a cost. Hear Roy's experience when a higher-paying job opportunity tested familial loyalty, and how the challenges of managing expectations within a family business become a daily reality. This candid conversation also addresses the growth born from tough love, as we learn how earning respect and experience in the workplace is non-negotiable, even for family members.

Finally, it's the intricacies of family business succession and the fortitude to face financial adversity head-on that bring the story home. Roy and Ryan's story is not just about the survival of a business but also about the strength of relationships that carry a company through its darkest hours. As they share how a banking relationship and debt relief was a cornerstone in their rebound, this episode exemplifies hope for family businesses navigating their paths through uncertainty, all while holding onto the values that define and drive them towards a future built on solid ground, trust and faith.

You can find Elite Service Experts on line by visiting: https://elite.gs/

For more information about the Family Business Center visit: Capital Region Family Business Center website

To learn more about how our sponsor, River City Bank may help your family business, visit their website: River City Bank

One would not suspect a young newspaper carrier to redefine the process from sidewalk or porch drop to in-home delivery, as it was self defined. Now would one expect that to turn into his first positive business exit. But that's what you'll hear on today's episode with Mark Haney. Inspiring, educational and not without the highs and lows of taking the family business into a creative growth cycle only to find a highly leveraged situation that went from optmistic to nearly broke.

A testament to the power of dreaming big, adapting to change, and seizing opportunities came from unexpected challenges. Then there's the critical role of building a strong team and fostering commitment within a business. Mark shares the essential elements that bind a team together: a compelling vision, strategic resource allocation, and an unyielding dedication to the shared goal. As a leader, he also emphasizes the contagious nature of commitment and the significance of understanding the founder's 'why'. You'll hear valuable insights into the dynamics of family businesses, the joy of shared success, and the profound impact of love and potential in creating unity.

Finally, Natalie and Mark candidly discuss the balance between investor involvement and executive freedom, stressing the benefits of trust and personal investment in a company's success. Through his narrative, we see how entrepreneurs can craft a business that operates independently, enabling a life that harmonizes with their deepest values. Whether a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, this episode offers wisdom on leadership, resilience, and the pursuit of a fulfilled life.

To learn more about The Growth Factory visit https://growthfactory.us/

For more information about the Family Business Center visit: Capital Region Family Business Center website

To learn more about how our sponsor, River City Bank may help your family business, visit their website: River City Bank

What a wonderful story this episodes displays of a family that has come together in the interest of not only continuing a legacy but also for sharing a passion of the very thing that kept them together. Honey. Josh and Shoshana Zeldner have a unique story to tell about how their interest in continuing the education about honey that their father started with his wife, their mother Amina, was brought to life after he had passed. Amina Zeldner reflects on the origin of the business, the intense desire Ishai had to spread the word of the new varietals in honey and how the children literally returned to the business after leaving for careers of their own. Listen as you discover the bond this family has and how it came to support the creation of something their father had only dreamt of.

Learn more about The Hive by visiting https://zspecialtyfood.com/meet-the-team/

For more information about the Family Business Center visit: Capital Region Family Business Center website

To learn more about how our sponsor, River City Bank may help your family business, visit their website: River City Bank