It Runs In The Family

From a simple idea for wool-insulated packaging, the revolutionary Woolcool was born…Two decades after that creative spark, Angela Morris and her daughter Josie head up a brand which puts people, purpose and the planet at the heart of everything they do.The story behind their growth, and what's next for such an innovative family firm, is an extraordinary joy to share as we dive deep into the world of Woolcool on It Runs In The Family.This episode covers:Navigating roles, communication, and mutual respect across generationsWoolcool's roots in sustainable innovationThe importance of preserving core business values while allowing for evolution Creative problem solving at the heart of Woolcool's futureAngela Morrishttps://www.linkedin.com/in/angelamorriswoolcool/Josie Morris MBEhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/josie-morris-mbe-354b5b57/Liz Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/lizzielean/https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-willingham-09273a3/Leila Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/leilawillingham/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-willingham-821530a1/

Fairacres Group began with Mike Kean's father making boiled sweets. Decades later, it's an icon on the South Coast with its roles in property, hospitality and a legendary ferry.The business, much like Mike himself, is being brought into the new generation by his daughter Rosie, and the story behind the succession is a charming tale of responsibility and reinvention!Join Rosie and Mike as they share the journey with us on It Runs In The Family…This episode covers:Gradual transitioning leadership to a next generation, and the importance of understanding the business from the ground upGenerational perspectives on business, and how Rosie's helped introduce ideas around diversity, inclusion, and work-life balanceFairacres Group's evolution from making boiled sweets to managing a ferry, hospitality, and propertyBoth Mike and Rosie's deep emotional investment in the family business as custodians for future generationsHow Rosie and Mike commit to maintaining their relationship above the businessLiz Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/lizzielean/https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-willingham-09273a3/Leila Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/leilawillingham/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-willingham-821530a1/

H Harrold & Sons have the fine privilege of being Sheffield's only Master Locksmiths, a testament to the longevity of this 5th generation family firm.Now with Directors Jordan and Harry in the fold, we're able to paint the picture of a family whose values are as strong as the very locks they tend to.Join us on It Runs In The Family as we dive deeper into the story of a family keeping alive an industry steeped in tradition!This episode covers:The core values of hard work and customer service present from the very start of the businessGenerational transitions between family business ownershipPreserving old-school locksmithing skills, while slowly adapting to modern technologiesLack of regulation in the locksmithing profession, and why family values matter in their industryJordan Harroldhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-harrold-97304a357/Harry Harroldhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/harry-harrold-56798032b/Liz Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/lizzielean/https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-willingham-09273a3/Leila Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/leilawillingham/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-willingham-821530a1/

Walfinch is a thriving homecare franchise which blends entrepreneurial ambition with family-focused care.Who better to care for families than a family business? Amrit Dhaliwal and Kam Gill are siblings on a mission to bring their award-winning care to more, and help those that they support to thrive.Entrepreneurialism and family care is deeply rooted in the family, so join us to discover Amrit and Kam's story on It Runs In The Family!This episode covers:How parents' entrepreneurial spirit and work ethic can pass down the generationsLearning to become co-workers rather than siblings in the workplaceWalfinch's heart-warming mission to provide quality homecare services The value of ongoing education, personal development, and staying adaptable in businessCultural family values seeping into businessAmrit Dhaliwal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amrit-dhaliwal-a436445b/Kam Gill: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kam-gill-58b732194/Liz Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/lizzielean/https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-willingham-09273a3/Leila Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/leilawillingham/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-willingham-821530a1/

When Prince George was crowned on GQ's ‘Best Dressed Men' list aged 4, it's in no small part to this week's guests, Rachel and Rose Riley!Rachel created her namesake clothing brand for children, and both she and her daughter are committed to creating magical moments for kids, and becoming a part of every family's story.Join us for a charming episode of It Runs In The Family with one of the most prestigious kids' clothing brands in the world.This episode covers:Upholding 30 years of legacy through traditional, high-quality designsPreserving traditional craft skills like smocking and sewing, integral to the brand's design philosophyRachel Riley's endorsement from international celebrities to the royal familyRose and Rachel's working relationship built on complementary skills, and enjoymentRachel Rileyhttps://www.rachelriley.co.uk/https://www.instagram.com/rachelrileyuk/Liz Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/lizzielean/https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-willingham-09273a3/Leila Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/leilawillingham/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-willingham-821530a1/

At the heart of the TLC Sport story are a mother and daughter whose passion for empowering the women who wear their clothing is felt in every thread…The mission remains just the same now as when they were founded in 1984, for their customers to feel confident in their clothes and in themselves, and we're delighted to see how this works today as Sara and Charlotte join us on this week's It Runs In The Family!This episode covers:The balance of complimentary skills between Charlotte and SaraKeeping inclusivity front-and-centre as they focus on creating clothing for women of all body types, sizes, and shapesTLC's mission to go beyond clothing, and boost women's confidenceEntrepreneurial resilience at the heart of TLC's storyBody Positivity Campaign: The recent collaboration with Gemma Collins showcased their commitment to authentic representation, featuring unedited images of real women of diverse body types in their sportswearSara Hannahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-hanna-041a94b/Charlotte Ayoubhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/charlotte-aytan-ayoub-15b5b377/Liz Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/lizzielean/https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-willingham-09273a3/Leila Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/leilawillingham/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-willingham-821530a1/

Gary Beckwith has had an extraordinary business journey, one from which every generation of any family firm can learn…From firing his father in order to grow the business, to working with his children, to maintaining a love for his business even after selling it, the story of City Cruises' Founder Gary, and his daughter Lucy, is steeped in emotional insight and invaluable wisdom.Join us as Gary and Lucy share their journey with City Cruises on this week's episode of It Runs In The Family!This episode covers:The delicate balance of personal relationships and business-first thinking family businessesThe journey of City Cruises from a small fuel barge to a booming tourism businessHow succession planning and an exit strategy looks in family firmsThe critical importance of clear family communication, and setting boundariesHow deeply intertwined personal identity can become with a family businessLucy Beckwithhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/lucy-beckwith-05b6b160/Liz Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/lizzielean/https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-willingham-09273a3/Leila Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/leilawillingham/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-willingham-821530a1/

Sharpham Dairy is the UK's first B-Corp cheesemaker, a seemingly daunting challenge, but as a family business, the B-Corp values were already their own…Cheesemaking at Sharpham began over 40 years ago, and the story written by current owners Greg and Nicky Parsons is one that they hope lasts for generations to come.Greg & Nicky share the story behind their first 6 years in charge, and their ambitions for the future, as they join us on It Runs In The Family!This episode covers:The family business' transition and succession across the decadesEmbracing community and collaboration in DevonChallenges from the pandemic, and how they adapted as a family to keep the business goingAligning values and purpose, as reflected in their B-Corp certificationThe next generation and looking at the business through a lens of longevitySharpham Dairy: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sharpham-dairy/Greg Parsons: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-parsons-a9209b5/Liz Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/lizzielean/https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-willingham-09273a3/Leila Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/leilawillingham/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-willingham-821530a1/

There's an art to family businesses, and if it's mastered half as well as Graham & Brown have mastered their wallpaper designs, they'll be thriving for generations to come.The 4th gen is now firmly in place, thanks to Iona and the watchful eye of her father Andrew, and they join us on It Runs In The Family this week to share their long-term perspective, the respect for legacy design, and whether they share the same taste within the family…This episode covers:Unique challenges and benefits that Andrew and Iona have found when working alongside family Graham & Brown' rich 79-year history, and blending the brand's legacy with innovationThe Blackburn community's importance to the brand, and their sense of responsibilityTaking a no-pressure approach to inviting family members into the businessAndrew Graham: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-graham-mbe-a9484418/Iona Graham: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iona-graham/Graham & Brown: https://www.grahambrown.com/uk/https://www.linkedin.com/company/graham-&-brown/https://www.instagram.com/grahamandbrown/Liz Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/lizzielean/https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-willingham-09273a3/Leila Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/leilawillingham/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-willingham-821530a1/

We've yet another Northern Irish-based family brand to bring you, this time in the form of luxury bakehouse Bumble & Goose, whose care and handmade quality are second to none.There are few Founders more deserving of such success as Lynsey Bleakley, whose personal and entrepreneurial hurdles haven't halted her ambitions for a business she'll one day pass down to daughter Yazmin.Join us to discover the killer brands that Bumble & Goose supply, the dynamic between the family, and what makes this brand so scrumptious and special…This episode covers:How Lynsey has overcome adversity both personally and in businessThe mother-daughter relationship between Lynsey and YazminBumble & Goose's stellar growth, and how they're now being mentored by Coca ColaThe unwavering dedication to quality, ethics and handmade careBumble & Goose: https://bumbleandgoose.co.uk/https://www.linkedin.com/company/bumble-and-goose/Lynsey Bleakley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynsey-bleakley-508197189/Liz Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/lizzielean/https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-willingham-09273a3/Leila Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/leilawillingham/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-willingham-821530a1/

Morelli Ice Cream's humble beginnings lie with Peter, one of nine brothers, and several generations later the business thrives with four siblings writing its legacy.Taking us behind the innovative flavours and their stellar supermarket presence, Arnaldo and Daniela Morelli join us for a flavoursome new episode of It Runs In The Family!This episode covers:The ingredients behind maintaining a multi-generational family legacyResilience in the DNA of the family, who kept Morelli Ice Cream going through the challenge of wartimeMorelli's passion for quality, traditional recipes, and continuous innovationThe joys and challenges of working alongside siblings Arnaldo Morellihttps://www.linkedin.com/in/arnaldo-morelli-6b52781a/Daniela Morellihttps://www.linkedin.com/in/daniela-morelli-kerr-12723023/Morelli Ice Creamhttps://www.morellisices.com/https://www.instagram.com/morelliice/Liz Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/lizzielean/https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-willingham-09273a3/Leila Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/leilawillingham/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-willingham-821530a1/

Before Starbucks in 1971 came the first coffee shop in 1919… and decades before that, Robert Stokes launched a brand which would span centuries.Now under 4th generation leadership with great-grandson Nick, the Stokes Tea & Coffee brand is the perfect example of a family firm sticking to its roots, while moving with the times.Nick joins us alongside Business Development Manager Emma Olivier-Townrow, to share how the legendary firm has taken on challenges never faced in its 132 year history…This episode covers:How Robert Stokes' legacy has been passed down through the generations, shaping the business' evolutionThe challenges and opportunities that arise when a new generation takes the helm The importance of balancing tradition and innovationCreating a positive dynamic between family and non-family team membersStokes' resilience amid the unprecedented challenges of the pandemicThe delicate balance Stokes has struck between honoring its rich history and heritage, while embracing modern trendsStokes Tea & Coffeehttps://stokescoffee.com/https://instagram.com/stokescoffee/https://www.linkedin.com/company/stokes-tea-&-coffee/Nick Peelhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-peel-53265313/Emma Olivier-Townrowhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/emma-olivier-townrow-ba-hons-0167304b/Liz Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/lizzielean/https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-willingham-09273a3/Leila Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/leilawillingham/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-willingham-821530a1/

Welcome to our 100th episode of It Runs In The Family, and what a celebration we have for you - we present the quintessential family business story.Matthew Barker's journey with the family firm is a thrilling ride that pulls on the heart strings, and proudly exhibits what makes family businesses so undeniably special…Join us for a moving story which cuts to the very core of what this podcast is all about.This episode covers:Matthew's incredible resilience in overcoming countless obstaclesPersonal challenges with the family, and how they bled through into the businessHow Matthew bounced back from a shocking, nearly business-ending incidentThe desire to create a positive legacyMatthew Barker: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barkergroup/Liz Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/lizzielean/https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-willingham-09273a3/Leila Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/leilawillingham/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-willingham-821530a1/

As parents, working in such a family-oriented field is bound to blur lines between work and home - such a line is one that the Le Van family walk effortlessly…Steve Le Van is the 2nd generation leader of Le Toy Van, working in complementary harmony with wife and Creative Director, Marie. The charm of Le Toy Van's products flows through the duo effortlessly, as they share the business' 30 year history (and exciting future) in this week's It Runs In The Family!This episode covers:The evolution of Le Toy Van over decades, adapting to the new age of toysComplementary skills and dynamics between Steve and Marie, balancing numerical prowess with creativityTradition vs innovation in the toy industryHow Steve and Marie manage home life with work life and parenthood, while working in an industry so close to their heartsThe enduring appeal and adaptability of classic toys like the doll's house, and how they can span generationsLe Toy Van: https://letoyvan.co.uk/https://www.instagram.com/letoyvantoys/https://www.linkedin.com/company/le-toy-van/Steve Le Van: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-le-van/Marie Le Van: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marie-le-van-0a355b89/Liz Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/lizzielean/https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-willingham-09273a3/Leila Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/leilawillingham/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-willingham-821530a1/

Dr Robert Graham's story begins in a farmhouse, being born just one year after the inception of the business he'd go on to live and breathe.Graham's Family Dairy is over 70 years strong, and farming runs firmly in the family's lineage, so how did a humble Scottish brand find themselves launching products in Dubai?It's a staggering story, which we hear from Dr Robert and his daughter, Carol, in this week's It Runs In The Family!This episode covers:The Graham family's 5 generations in their industry, and the challenges of successionStaying innovative and making bold decisions to grow the businessBalancing family life with the businessEvolving with the times, while staying true to your rootsAlignment in family firms actually being easier at scale than in a smaller businessGraham's Family Dairyhttps://www.grahamsfamilydairy.com/https://www.instagram.com/grahamsthefamilydairy/https://www.linkedin.com/company/grahams-the-family-dairy/Liz Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/lizzielean/https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-willingham-09273a3/Leila Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/leilawillingham/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-willingham-821530a1/

We were delighted to speak about growing family businesses through PR and reputation at the Northern Ireland Family Business Forum - wouldn't you love to be a fly on the wall for that?Luckily, this episode of ‘It Runs In The Family' is exactly that! We looked back on 26 years of experience and expertise, our journey to this point, what PR means in today's changing world, and our top tips for how to take your family business reputation to the next level.This episode covers:The early stages of Liz's career and the spark that started Liz Lean PRWhy you should celebrate your milestones, and adapt to changeThe definition of PR, and its role in family firmsCore pillars for a valuable reputationOur top tips for using PR and comms to boost your reputationLiz Lean PR: https://www.lizleanpr.co.uk/https://www.linkedin.com/company/liz-lean-pr/https://www.instagram.com/lizleanpr/Liz Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/lizzielean/https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-willingham-09273a3/Leila Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/leilawillingham/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-willingham-821530a1/

Susie Cumming's first venture into headhunting unveiled an awareness of the greatness that could be achieved when the whole family combines their skills…Combining her entrepreneurialism with the creativity and analysis of sons Ned and Oliver has brought such success to their business Nurole, now under 2nd generation leadership!The skills, the dynamic and the trust between these three is fascinating to observe, so join us as we dive deep with this family on It Runs In The Family.This episode covers:Susie's awareness to surround herself with complementary skill setsHow cognitive diversity and external perspectives strengthen a businessHandling differences in opinion with family and non-family membersThe trust working with family, knowing there's no hidden agendasNurole: https://www.nurole.com/https://www.linkedin.com/company/nurole/Susie Cummings: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susie-cummings-nurole/Ned Cummings: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nedcummings/Oliver Cummings: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oliver-cummings/Liz Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/lizzielean/https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-willingham-09273a3/Leila Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/leilawillingham/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-willingham-821530a1/

Millwood is the only, and therefore the #1 B Corp in its field. For most, that'd be the dream, but Co-Owner Matt Wood wishes for the opposite…That might sound counterintuitive, but for a business leader whose drive is purpose and impact (as with so many family firms), it reflects a dream synonymous with his values.The 31 year story behind this inspirational 2nd generation firm is not to be missed - catch Matt's journey on this week's episode of ‘It Runs In The Family'!This episode covers:The role of family-like relationships with non-family members in the growth of MillwoodFamily alignment, and how to defuse conflictSetting up The WoodMor Foundation, and a desire to have purpose beyond financial successThe value of boundaries in business, particularly working with familyMillwood: https://www.millwood.co.uk/https://www.instagram.com/millwoodfiresafety/https://www.linkedin.com/company/millwood-servicing-ltd/The WoodMor Foundation: https://woodmor.org/https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-woodmor-foundation-c-i-c/Matt Wood: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-wood-6187385b/Liz Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/lizzielean/https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-willingham-09273a3/Leila Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/leilawillingham/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-willingham-821530a1/

The Avenue Cookery School has left its imprint on countless aspiring chefs, thanks in no small part to the full force of the Horsford family behind it.Diana was joined by her children Richard and Sophie, who have elevated the school to new heights, and for a family with such energy, it's a joy to explore their equally enrapturing journey in this week's ‘It Runs In The Family'!This episode covers:How the business took shape, particularly once involving the next generationHandling conflict in an ambitious, energetic familyManaging communication to stay aligned, as both a business and a family unitDeciding when to heed your gut instinct, and when to ignore itThe Avenue Cookery School: https://theavenuecookeryschool.com/https://www.instagram.com/avenuecookery/https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-avenue-cookery-school/Diana Horsford: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-horsford-a8727157/Richard Horsford: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-horsford-17a732b2/Sophie Shalgi: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophie-shalgi/Liz Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/lizzielean/https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-willingham-09273a3/Leila Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/leilawillingham/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-willingham-821530a1/

4 generations have seen a clock business with royalty among its customers become an iconic household name, and it's Chloe Pestell at the helm of the 102 year old brand.Stackers was born of parent company LC Designs, and with so much of Chloe's family involved, it's a fascinating dynamic that we're able to explore in this week's episode of It Runs In The Family!This episode covers:The company's fascinating work with royaltyWorking with so many family members still in the mixProving yourself worthy in your own family's businessChloe's biggest mark on the business so farStackers: https://stackers.com/https://www.linkedin.com/company/mystackers/Chloe Pestell: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chloe-pestell-3077324a/Liz Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/lizzielean/https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-willingham-09273a3/Leila Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/leilawillingham/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-willingham-821530a1/

There is no traditional dynamic between the Co-Founders of Humanness, but the way the father-son duo thrive together is an extraordinary story.With a strive for purpose and contentment at their core, Quinn Stainfield-Bruce and his father, Duncan Bruce, have a unique outlook on the family business world brimming with mantras that'll change your perspective on life itself.Sounds dramatic, but from a business with Humanness in its name, you'd expect nothing less…This episode covers:Whether consciously or unconsciously, parents set their kids up to join the family firmThe formula for purposeQuinn and Duncan's response to the ‘corporate pandemic'Finding real happiness not in pleasure, but contentmentThe role of trust with non-family members in the family businessHumanness: https://wearehumanness.com/https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearehumanness/Duncan Bruce: https://www.linkedin.com/in/duncan-d-bruce-0272975/Quinn Stainfield-Bruce: https://www.linkedin.com/in/quinn-stainfield-bruce-1522454/Liz Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/lizzielean/https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-willingham-09273a3/Leila Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/leilawillingham/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-willingham-821530a1/

Sustainit Solutions exists thanks to the forward-thinking nature of its Founder - no wonder its 2nd gen CEO is just as cognizant of the family firm's future…Pip Stockford is this week's special guest, and as one of the first families to spot the need for sustainability in business, we learn what makes them tick!Join us on ‘It Runs In The Family' to discover how the Stockford family keeps their name alive through the business, the trick to succession planning, and why keeping finances out of the family might be the best decision you ever make…This episode covers:The 2nd generation experience in taking over a business already well-refinedGreat succession planning as a necessity for a business' long lifespanThe highs and lows of working with parents and extended familiesHow Pip's mum inspired her as she grew up by being a powerhousePip's uniquely sage advice for business owners handling the financial sideSustainit: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sustainit-solutions/https://www.sustainitsolutions.com/Pip Stockford: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pipstockford/Liz Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/lizzielean/https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-willingham-09273a3/Leila Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/leilawillingham/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-willingham-821530a1/

Nothing can test a family bond quite like being in business together, a gauntlet run by the two generations who've helmed Frettens Solicitors.Matthew Fretten is a Managing Partner whose path saw him join his father's firm (the manner of which is a point of contention between the pair…), and the business' journey has been far from simply smooth sailing.Resilience is a quality shared by so many family businesses, and as you'll hear on this fascinating episode of It Runs In The Family, Frettens is no exception.This episode covers:Frettens' inception, based on simple valuesThe weight of taking on what a previous generation has builtThe complicated reality of retiring from a family businessWhy open communication and understanding different perspectives is vital for succession planningFrettens Solicitors: https://www.frettens.co.uk/https://www.linkedin.com/company/frettens-solicitors/https://www.instagram.com/frettens/Matthew Fretten: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-fretten-6952b7/Liz Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/lizzielean/https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-willingham-09273a3/Leila Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/leilawillingham/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-willingham-821530a1/

If you could bottle up the ingredients to entrepreneurship, it'd be best sold in the loving, careful hands of Simon & Gina Duke…The mentality passed down through the Duke family is so key to the success of G&I Spirit Group, a multinational family firm where they still commit to having ‘a little love in every bottle'.Simon & Gina's journey is utterly fascinating, and the lessons bestowed on their family from generations before are gold dust - tune into this week's It Runs In The Family to hear all.This episode covers:The pivots that led Simon to founding G&I Spirits GroupGina's multifaceted training, having done absolutely everything within the businessWhy family members need to work twice as hard for respect from co-workersThe love that sets G&I's dynamic apart from the restHow Gina's commitment to the business balances with being a mother of threeG&I Spirit Group: https://www.gi-spiritgroup.co.uk/https://www.instagram.com/gi_spirit_group/https://www.linkedin.com/company/gi-spiritgroup/Liz Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/lizzielean/https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-willingham-09273a3/Leila Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/leilawillingham/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-willingham-821530a1/

Dyson, DeLonghi, Kenwood - while the adults play with the real thing, Casdon's decades-long mission has been inspiring joy through iconic toys.Role-play is such an inspiring part of kids' childhoods, and at the head of the business bringing these visions to life is 3rd gen Managing Director, Phil Cassidy.Phil joins us on It Runs In The Family for a look behind the licences, the playful family feel of Casdon, and what makes his international expansion so extraordinary!This episode covers:How the ‘Cassidy Brothers' story evolved into an iconic role-play toy brandPhil making his mark on a business that's already three generations strongThe incredible stories that come from making licensed toys from the likes of Dyson and DeLonghiStandout memories and visions of the business' future custodiansCasdon: https://www.casdon.com/https://www.instagram.com/casdontoysukhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/casdon-plc/Phil Cassidy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-cassidy-8b69a715/Liz Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/lizzielean/https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-willingham-09273a3/Leila Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/leilawillingham/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-willingham-821530a1/

Wagstaff Watches' Founder was many things; a countryman, farmer, and to the custodians over 100 years later, a passionate and inspiring watchmaker.Albert Wagstaff's legacy is one which remains in safe hands, thanks to his grandson and great-grandsons, and it's a joy to share a glimpse into this fascinating dynamic as we're joined this week by Peter Foster on It Runs In The Family.This episode covers:The unique circumstances behind Peter's involvement in the businessWhy arguments are actually a good signThe emotional thread running through Wagstaff Watches right from Albert's original designsPeter's long-term view on Wagstaff's legacy over making a quick buckWagstaff Watches: https://wagstaffwatches.com/https://www.instagram.com/wagstaff_watches/Liz Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/lizzielean/https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-willingham-09273a3/Leila Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/leilawillingham/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-willingham-821530a1/

When you take charge of your parents' business, validation comes in many forms - few are quite as strong as winning ‘International Winemaker of the Year', the first English wine to do so…Despite the heartfelt challenges of the mid-2010s, Ridgeview Wine Estate's Simon & Tamara Roberts took the helm of a product that's been served to royalty… literally!Discover their story, and the unique challenges of 2nd generation ownership in this week's episode of It Runs In The Family!This episode covers:Tamara and Simon's tips for taking on a 2nd generation business successfullyHow the Roberts family, and subsequently the business, overcame a tough period of medical challenges & griefThe value of industry validation in celebrating your achievementsHighlights from the journey so far, from international award wins to selection for the Queen's Diamond JubileeRidgeview Wine Estates: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ridgeviewwineuk/Simon Roberts: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simon-roberts-b97a024b/Tamara Roberts: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tamara-roberts-ab635133/Liz Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/lizzielean/https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-willingham-09273a3/Leila Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/leilawillingham/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-willingham-821530a1/

2020 put the events space in jeopardy; One pivot, and Pow Food found its feet in style.Ali & Emily Warburton's business story starts with a mission to revolutionise workplace food, and has evolved into a home range that embodies the duo's relentless progression!Join Ali & Emily on It Runs In The Family as the mother-daughter pair shares how their alignment is a blessing and a curse, the blueprint to pivoting swiftly, and how they balance their polar opposite skill sets.This episode covers:The catalyst for Emily's involvement in Pow Foods, and the pivot from the events spaceThe perfect combination of polar opposite skill setsWhy having a joint mission and alignment is both a blessing and a curseThe family roots of Ali and Emily's ambitious valuesPow Food: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pow-food/https://powfood.co.uk/https://www.instagram.com/pow.food/Ali Warburton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ali-warburton-b9908ba/Emily Warburton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-warburton-adams-1b625373/Liz Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/lizzielean/https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-willingham-09273a3/Leila Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/leilawillingham/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-willingham-821530a1/

Around 70% of businesses start off at home, and from humble beginnings in Adi Meintjes' kitchen, the deliciously captivating Banhoek Chilli Oil was born.He and his brother-in-law, Ken Kinsey-Quick, have global aspirations for a brand that's survived early pandemic setbacks in bringing a family recipe to life!The duo join us on It Runs In The Family to share their unique dynamic, how business bonds them as if they were brothers by blood, and what makes Adi the ‘Walter White' of chilli oil…This episode covers:The family dinners that sparked a stunning original recipeHow the brothers-in-law have worked together, combining strengths and aligning to solve challengesBanhoek's tough start in early-2020, and how they thrived in the wake of CovidWhy their celebrations of success are muted until they reach their ‘ultimate goal'Banhoek Chilli Oil: https://banhoekchillioil.com/https://www.instagram.com/banhoekchillioil/https://www.linkedin.com/company/banhoek-chilli-oil-company/Ken Kinsey-Quick: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ken-kinsey-quick-56508918b/Adi Meintjes: https://www.instagram.com/adimeintjes/https://www.linkedin.com/in/adi-meintjes-68a2231b8/Liz Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/lizzielean/https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-willingham-09273a3/Leila Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/leilawillingham/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-willingham-821530a1/

Every episode of our podcast has posed the same three questions, hoping to track trends across businesses - after 82 episodes, it's about time we took a look back…In a very special episode of It Runs In The Family, join us for a journey through some of our favourite answers from the likes of Cook, Thatcher's and Cornishware among many others, with hilarity, practical advice and heartfelt emotions in equal measure.This episode covers:The very first memories that tend to implant themselves into family business owners at an early ageWhat, if anything, people would do differently - and whether any regrets lingerInvaluable advice for any business leader from those who have worked with family Liz Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/lizzielean/https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-willingham-09273a3/Leila Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/leilawillingham/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-willingham-821530a1/

In an industry that builds for the present, it takes the care of kinship to build for the future - such is the strategy for Michael and Damien Wynne.These brothers have always been destined to work together, and as Co-Founders of property development company Q New Homes, they're not afraid to pass up on profit for the benefit of the planet.Learn more about these siblings and how they bring their climate-first homes to life in this week's It Runs In The Family!This episode covers:The early dreams of working together as kidsWhy Q New Homes do things differently from the rest of their industryThe roster of trusted support that Michael and Damien can call uponHow the brothers deal with disagreementsSupporting each other without question during their times of needQ New Homes: https://www.qnewhomes.co.uk/https://www.instagram.com/qnewhomes/https://www.linkedin.com/company/qnewhomes-ltd/Michael Wynne: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-wynne-b04a28291/Damien Wynne: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damien-wynne-a8aa61225/Liz Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/lizzielean/https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-willingham-09273a3/Leila Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/leilawillingham/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-willingham-821530a1/

Despite the world of estate agency evolving dramatically the Tailor Made approach remains true 25 years on from its inception.Now led primarily by 2nd generation siblings Robert and Adrian, it's a business bleeding true family values throughout as they build trust selling on some of the most coveted land in the country - Sandbanks.Join the duo for lessons and laughs in abundance, as their personality seeps into this fantastic episode of It Runs In The Family!This episode covers:How the duo came to work together within Tailor MadeDiffering strengths and skill sets between siblingsValues passed down from the previous generation that serve the business immensely todayStandout memories working as a family, particularly with some star-studded clientsTailor Made Estate Agency https://www.tailormadeestateagency.co.uk/https://www.linkedin.com/company/tailor-made-estate-agents-ltd/https://www.instagram.com/tailormadesandbanks/Adrian Dunford https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrian-dunford-4500b911/Robert Dunford https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-dunford-32542111/Liz Willingham https://www.instagram.com/lizzielean/https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-willingham-09273a3/Leila Willingham https://www.instagram.com/leilawillingham/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-willingham-821530a1/

Jim De'Ath grew up with the great outdoors central to his childhood. Now it's at the heart of his entire family and its business: Valley and Peak.Becoming the 2nd generation to work within the business, Jim's sights are set on carrying a torch that'll last for many generations to come…The way that the family has influenced the business is just as fascinating as the inverse, seeing the family dynamic evolve with the brand - we learn more about the fabulous family behind Valley and Peak on this week's ‘It Runs In The Family'!This episode covers:How outdoor activity in Jim's childhood fed into his business journeyNavigating huge life events alongside business demandsHow working with family alters your dynamics and time togetherThe invaluable benefits of having trust in those leading around you

From our family business to yours: Happy Valentine's Day! What better day for us to celebrate all that we love about the people behind the show's family business guests, and beyond.This week, the Willingham family takes centre stage as we look back on our unbelievable roster of guests, and share our adoration for the traits that they've exhibited which you just won't find outside of the wonderful world of family business!This episode covers:How 2024 has kicked off, and what family businesses can expect from the year aheadCommon touching points for most family businessesThe innate connection between kin within a family firmOur appreciation for the candid honesty from all the guests that have joined us to dateOpportunities that family businesses create for their own next generations

Since its inception in 1980, the humble Glaswegian beginnings of Pagazzi Lighting have bloomed into a leading lighting retailer, with the delightful Pagan family at the helm.Founded by Alan and Laura Pagan, they're now joined in the business by daughter Rebecca - it's the mother-daughter duo joining us on the podcast this week to share the charming stories, back-to-the-wall moments and family spirit that lights their way…This episode covers:The story behind Pagazzi's bold, naive beginningsHow the family dynamic works with work-life balance & handling disagreementsTheir feeling of responsibility for team members, and the extra drive that gives youThe importance of non-family members in the team's growthPagazzi's admirable ambitions to continue expanding further south

When Mark Hamblin's parents rented a single van out throughout the weekdays, little did they know they were laying the simple groundwork for a thriving vehicle hire business.U-Drive's fleet might be strong, with over four thousand vehicles, but it's the strength and convictions of the Hamblin family members within the business that one simply can't help but admire.Mark and Lauren, father and daughter, join us live in the studio this week for a charming episode of It Runs In The Family.This episode covers:How the 42 year old business grew its huge, 4,000+ vehicle fleetStandout moments with the family throughout U-Drive's illustrious historyHow Lauren formed her connection with the business at a particularly early agePutting the family's needs ahead of the business

Pembrokeshire is a stunning stretch of Welsh coastline whose beauty should sell itself, but it's Coastal Cottages' community-building that builds the experience around it.Join us on It Runs In The Family to hear how Matthew and Sophie Evans channel their complementary talents in building a charming holiday cottage agency, all whilst founding one of Wales' biggest sporting exports on the side…This episode covers:The story behind how the duo came to run Coastal CottagesHow they hold onto their wonderful staff Why they're sometimes described as a ‘dating agency for holiday homeowners and holidaymakers'Bringing more family into the businessHow they're bringing attention to the gorgeous area of Pembrokeshire

The story behind Joe & Seph's Gourmet Popcorn begins with a penchant for holiday gifts from the USA, and its latest chapter sees an iconic brand sharing natural flavours like no other.Among 4 family Co-Founders is Adam Sopher, whose role now as CEO sees him reside over a business proud to have secured investment and seen its products in Selfridges.We catch up with Adam on this week's ‘It Runs In The Family' to discover their delightful story.This episode covers:The business' swift inception with the family's appearance at a food show in 2010How securing investment felt like validation of what they'd achieved so farShared family leadership evolving into a more structured approachThe combined skill sets of the family creating something special

Catipilla just celebrated their 6th birthday, and the business' adorable inception draws upon NASA experience and an unbeatable father-son combination.Designing furniture fit for our feline family is a job purrfectly suited to this week's special guest, Andy Sutton, who takes us through the humble beginnings of every cat's favourite furniture brand.This episode covers:Andy's journey as a NASA engineer, before his entrepreneurial careerHow the family dynamic plays into their decision making processThe charming story behind the business' humble beginningsMoments of pride on their journey to international acclaim

A 5 year old Christina Veal wanted ice cream, a simple request that set the wheels in motion on a 40 year legacy in the form of New Forest Ice Cream.Christina and her sister, Niki Jenman, now head up the business whose charm is tangible in every tasty scoop. These siblings have such undeniable chemistry, and it's a joy that they shared it with us in this delicious episode of It Runs In The Family!This episode covers:How the brand has evolved since its charming inception in 1983Standout moments with the family in the businessCarving out time for each otherThe unparalleled role of quality tester for some of the wildest flavoursMaintaining the business' size alongside its lovely family culture

Greenhouses may not be an essential product, but that makes the charm and connection of family values a non-negotiable for the marvellous Alitex.With celebrity clients from Sheeran to Sting and an indomitable presence at Chelsea Flower Show, it's no wonder that Tom and Nelly Hall have such pride in their brand.We join the duo on location this week, sheltering from the elements in one of their very own greenhouses, for a uniquely enlightening episode of It Runs In The Family.This episode covers:The impostor syndrome of being connected to the business through your family relationshipSharing complementary skills and combined valuesHow family life has influenced Tom's approach to business ownershipFamous names on their roster, including David Beckham's unforgettable visit to Alitex's HQ

Some businesses' products you simply can't, or shouldn't, live without - Lyfeguard sets out to make everyone's lives simpler in a way that few other businesses ever can…In the aftermath of a torrid experience handling two late friends' estates, Gary Steward and son Fraser Co-Founded a company with care and heart at its core. Join us to hear their story, how they separate business from family life, and why for them being a family business is a double edged sword of sorts…This episode covers:Separating business and family livesCombining complementary skills between family members and team membersThe emotional pain that Lyfeguard directly aims to alleviateFraser's experiences in Parliament

Forget all you know of a farm shop - Nick and Ash Sinfield have created an iconic location in the business they've Co-Founded together: Teals.The couple have created a remarkable blend of commerce and hospitality with a food market, restaurant, and range of wellness classes to name a selection of factors that make Teals stand out.We're joined by Nick and Ash to share how their family dynamic changed when they became Co-Founders, the value of values, and how to keep the business from becoming all-consuming.This episode covers:Teals' opening three years ago, and bumpy first few yearsThe difference between working together and founding a business togetherCreating a team dynamic where they enable their team, not inhibit themTheir responsibility as a budding B Corp to-beMaintaining a healthy dynamic when the business becomes overwhelming

Sri Lankan food culture brings people together and always lays a space at the table, and that family feel channels into The Coconut Tree's 9 fantastic locations.Rashintha Rodrigo's emotional connection with the business has evolved over its 9 years in rather an interesting way - we catch up with him on It Runs In The Family about the chain's success, and charming ambitions.This episode covers:The strength gained from having multiple Co-FoundersTheir ‘lay an extra spot at the table' ethos funnelling into the businessHow The Coconut Tree expanded their reach to 9 restaurants in 7 yearsAn evolving emotional connection with the business over time

Glenmuir's 130 year legacy stands it in great stead, but Managing Director Mikhel Ruia's constant innovation and tempered approach keeps them moving ever-forwards.We have the rare opportunity to speak with another business within the same family group as last episode's Sock Shop; both being part of the Ruia Group and interestingly sharing an evidently effective family ethos…This episode covers:Receiving business mentorship from within your entrepreneurial familyMikhel's pursuit of breaking the ‘3rd gen, rags-to-riches-to-rags' tropeGrowing up in a culture of commitment and work ethicThe impressive digitisation that Mikhel has brought to the businessFinding extraordinary improvements in the ordinaryHow to have an awareness and tact when handling tense topics

‘Feel good from the feet up' - one simple phrase underpins the decades-long history of the Sockshop brand, and its direction is guided by the keen intuition of Alok Ruia.As Director of the brand, which lies within the Ruia Group, there's a fascinating dynamic between his business and those of his brothers, and a philosophy evident throughout the group.Discover Alok's journey into the family business, the blend of strategy with opportunity recognition, and how Annie Lennox changed the way the world sees socks…This episode covers:The complication of family dynamics in business spacesUnique culture and autonomy being paramountThe fascinating story behind Sockshop's revolutionary Heat HoldersSurprising cultural impacts that have come from celebrity socks

Audrey Githa Goldberg was a health and skincare pioneer, writing two books heralded as ‘bibles' in their field. That legacy lives on and flourishes through Care of the Skin.The mother & daughter-run business takes its name from one of these books, and both Lucy & Hannah Bennett continue to bring this industry-leading history to life. Hear more from this outgoing duo as they join us on episode 66 of ‘It Runs In The Family'.This episode covers:The origins of Care of the Skin, harking from a timeless bookChallenges arising from being mother & daughter at all timesExciting future plans to grow the businessCelebrity clients valuing their integrity and discretion

There's no shortage of hotels offering 5-star experiences, but without the familial touch that's present in Maisons Pariente's resorts, they pail in comparison.Launching all three hotels in the same year is challenging enough, let alone having one recognised as the pinnacle of French hospitality in Travel + Leisure's awards.We dive into the family's charming approach to hospitality with Co-Founder & Artistic Director, Kimberley Cohen, in a rather continental episode of It Runs In The Family.This episode covers:Kimberley's shift from the fashion world in LA to hospitality with her familyThe ambitious opening of their 3 hotels all in the same yearHow their familial touch garnered them awards & global acclaimKnowing when to be heard or be quiet, and setting aside your ego

The appeal of Wookey Hole Caves extends far beyond the titular attraction, and that's thanks to the unrelenting love and ambition of its current custodians.Sarah Ramsay and her daughter Ellen found themselves suddenly helming a beloved legacy, and have brought together their collective creativity to bring the caves to life.It was a delight to speak with Sarah & Ellen on It Runs In The Family, where their passion is a heartwarming spectacle that tops off their incredible story.This episode covers:How the family handled the loss of Sarah's father from CovidBeing the guardian of a historic brandThe recent rebranding of Wookey Hole to refresh their legacyMoments of alignment and pride with the rest of the family

Creating a world-first product is already an admirable feat, but to do so with Audrey Hepburn as your collaborator is almost unimaginable.Philip Kingsley created the ‘Elasticizer' for his eponymous brand, and his passion for haircare & trichology feeds so clearly into his daughter, Brand President Anabel Kingsley.Join us on ‘It Runs In The Family' for a sublime exhibition of values and morals passed through generations, with some star-studded stories along the way…This episode covers:A company built on pure values of ethics and honestyTaking the reins suddenly upon Anabel's father's passingWhether her dad's legacy is consciously followed or simply instinctualHow working with Audrey Hepburn led to the creation of a world-first productPride in what came before and ambition in what's to come

A universally loved product for all generations is a remarkable starting point for a business to go global, and an exciting reality for the Eriksson brothers behind Boxbollen.Jacob & Victor have developed a ‘PlayTech' product earning celebrity endorsements from Khloe Kardashian, Steven Gerrard and Snoop Dogg, building out an infectious, TikTok-able appeal.The product's fun factor is matched by the dynamic shared by this Co-Founding duo, who join us for a delightful episode of It Runs In The Family.This episode covers:The catalyst moment that launched Jacob & Victor's brandAn offence & defence approach between the twoGoing global with little-to-no tailored marketingDeveloping a product with universal appealThe impact of several incredible celebrity endorsementsLayers of strength and trust built on working with family