Let us know what you thought of this episode and any other comments you may have.

In this episode, I sit down with Adreana Alvarez, founder of Love Her Shop, and her son Adrian, founder of Eras Shorts—their story is the kind that reminds you why family businesses really are unique.

Adreana started with a problem every active mom recognizes: leggings that were overpriced, see-through, or constantly sliding down mid-workout. With encouragement (and engineering-minded problem-solving) from her husband, she built a better option—then built a movement around it. What began as pop-ups at gyms and farmers markets became an online explosion during COVID… and before she fully realized it, she’d sold over $1M out of her garage.

But this isn’t just a “quick growth” story. It’s a community-first story—rooted in her dad’s journey from a third-grade education to building restaurants that became gathering places, and carried forward through Adreana’s decision to create a brand that is high quality, affordable, and purpose-driven. The name Love Her came from a moment outside an ER that reframed everything: this business wasn’t just a brand—it was a mission to give back to women.

Then there’s Adrian—watching his mom print labels, pack orders, and make post office runs—and realizing, “If she can do it, I can learn it.” He takes what he learned in the warehouse and on sourcing trips and applies it to his own niche: affordable team shorts that help underfunded teams look and feel unified. And yes—he shares how Eras Shorts has been successful enough to help him pay for college while he still pursues broader business experience.

We also get real about what it’s like to work with family: the code-switching, the boundaries, the respect, the conflict, and the pride. Three generations deep, the common threads are clear: fearlessness, values, and the decision to put people at the center—without losing the business fundamentals.

You can find Love Her Shop on line by visiting the website, www.lovehershop.com

00:00 – The garage-to-growth moment
Orders explode overnight, and Adriana realizes the side hustle is turning into something real.

02:05 – Meet Adreana + Adrian: three generations of entrepreneurship
Introductions, family-business roots, and how entrepreneurship was “normal” in their household.

10:05 – The origin stories: restaurants → promo business → Coca-Cola lessons
Adriana’s dad builds community through restaurants, Adriana builds and sells her first business, then learns distribution and operations at Coca-Cola.

28:25 – The COVID pivot: severance gamble → online launch → $1M wake-up call
Bootstrapping the website, community activation, and the surprise discovery that sales crossed a million.

40:20 – Purpose + product: engineered leggings, accessible pricing, giving back
Stitching-as-contour, high-quality/low-price commitment, tariff transparency, and the “Love Her” mission moment.

54:10 – Eras Shorts + working with family: building a brand, boundaries, values
Adrian’s team-short niche, funding and growth, paying for college, and how they code-switch between family and business.

To learn more about the Capital Region Family Business Center visit our website HERE. To learn more about River City Bank and how they can benefit your family business, visit www.rivercitybank.com

Let us know what you thought of this episode and any other comments you may have.

This episode I'm speaking with Roz Van Auker, wife of Ken Endelman, the founder of Balanced Body. The story begins with an unexpected twist of fate and the touch of skilled craftsmanship. Imagine Ken with hands expertly shaping the first Pilates machine, with Roz, his wife, orchestrating logistics while nurturing a young family. This episode invites you to witness the evolution of a humble family business into a global leader, with over 400 employees championing Pilates education worldwide through initiatives like Pilates on Tour. Roz and Ken embody the harmonious blend of family and business, weaving a tapestry of support and inclusivity that extends beyond blood relations to a vibrant community of Pilates professionals.

Community is the heart that beats within Balanced Body, and this episode uncovers how the company stands as a connector in both personal and professional spheres. We explore the value of instilling generosity and community service in younger generations, fostering a culture where giving back becomes second nature. Discover how Balanced Body's dedication to building a supportive network has created unexpected avenues for growth, transforming the simple act of connecting studio owners and teachers into a business philosophy steeped in meaningful relationships and shared success.

You're invited to a nostalgic journey through the joys of hospitality, where simple gestures like hosting a dinner can spark genuine connections. Reflecting on the enduring marriage of Roz and Ken, the episode shares insights into the magic of understanding and mutual support that fuels family unity and business success. With laughter, shared experiences, and a supportive community, we reveal how these elements intertwine to craft a fulfilling life and a resilient family business. Join us in celebrating the power of family, community, and the joy of giving back, as we share stories that inspire and unite.

To learn more about Balanced Body, visit the website: https://www.pilates.com/

To learn more about the Capital Region Family Business Center visit our website HERE. To learn more about River City Bank and how they can benefit your family business, visit www.rivercitybank.com

Let us know what you thought of this episode and any other comments you may have.

In this episode your host Natalie Kling sits down with Andrew and Allie Taylor—spouses, co-CEOs, and founders behind Conveyance Solutions (ERP implementations for industrial distributors) and Orange Kiwi (family-business consulting). They unpack Andrew’s shift from sole CEO to sharing the reins with Allie—what it cost in control and “relational equity,” and what it unlocked in scale and systems. You’ll hear their simple but powerful shorthand—“squiggly line vs. straight line”—for balancing entrepreneurial improvisation with operational discipline, and how a family “safe word” (“albatross”) protects home life from shop talk. Allie frames why emotional intelligence (self-awareness, other-awareness, self-regulation) is a core performance driver in family firms, while Andrew illustrates how “rational” debates (like upgrading an ERP) often mask identity and control concerns. They share candid lessons on working with three of their six kids in the business, the dangers of enablement and artificial harmony, and why embracing community and grace—for yourself and each other—keeps a multigenerational enterprise healthy. Yes, you'll recognize the practiced sense of "therapy" in their personal and professional structure and that's no wonder. It's quite intentional, actually. "Allie" is Dr. Allie Taylor and holds a PhD in psychology. Enjoy the episode.

To learn more about Orange Kiwi, you can visit the website: www.ockiwi.com

If you would like more information about Conveyance Soutions, visit: www.conveyance365.com

Chapter Summaries

(00:00) Navigating Challenges in Family Businesses
Andrew and Allie share their experience as co-CEOs of their family business, discussing the challenges of scaling and balancing spontaneity with necessary systems.
(10:03) Navigating Emotions in Family Businesses
Balancing family dynamics and business operations in family-run enterprises, using "albatross" as a safe word, and the importance of emotional intelligence.
(18:25) Navigating Family Business Dynamics
Family businesses face challenges blending dynamics, navigating conflict, and adapting to generational resistance.
(28:32) Balancing Family Dynamics in Business
Family businesses led by first-generation founders struggle with transitioning to modern systems and balancing family involvement with individual aspirations.
(38:45) Family Business Challenges With Grace
Entrepreneurial families face mental health challenges, coping behaviors, and the role of luck in achieving success.

To learn more about the Capital Region Family Business Center visit our website HERE. To learn more about River City Bank and how they can benefit your family business, visit www.rivercitybank.com

Let us know what you thought of this episode and any other comments you may have.

What if you could transform a fledgling family venture into a thriving business legacy? Join us for an engaging conversation with the Bozzuto brothers—Tony, Allen, and Bryan—as they recount their individual and collective journeys in growing Bozzuto Insurance from their father’s solo endeavor into a successful brokerage. Tony, the CEO, Allen, the Chief Business Development Officer, and Bryan, the CFO, share their unique paths and pivotal experiences that led them to embrace the family legacy, highlighting the importance of retention and sales in cementing the agency's foundation.

What role does family dynamics play in business success, and how does one balance personal and professional relationships? These are the questions we tackle with the brothers as they navigate the nuances of working alongside family. Candid conversations bring to light both the perks and challenges of blending familial bonds with business, offering insight into maintaining harmony amid disagreements. Discover how they keep the business talk in check during family gatherings and how the strength of their relationships helps sustain their business growth.

In the final segment, we focus on the future, reflecting on the hurdles of expanding a family business and the strategies for building a lasting legacy. The Bozzuto brothers discuss the importance of nurturing a strong company culture and recruiting new talent to fill the shoes of the retiring generation. They share their aspirations for the next wave of family members, underscoring the need for passion and dedication to carry the torch forward. Through their experiences, they provide valuable lessons for other family-run businesses looking to leave a meaningful impact.

To learn more about Bozzuto Insurance Services, visit the website HERE.

Chapter Summaries:

(00:00) Three Bozzuto Brothers Discuss Family Business
The Bozzuto brothers share their journey in managing Bizzuto Insurance, specializing in commercial insurance and expanding into personal lines and group health.

(13:54) Journey of Family Members in Business
Growing up in a family business, siblings share memories and paths to eventually embracing the insurance industry.

(27:40) Balancing Family and Business Relationships
Family-run businesses have benefits and challenges, including candid communication and balancing work and personal relationships.

(36:21) Challenges in Family Business Growth
Family-owned insurance business faces growth challenges, recruitment struggles, and the need to educate about insurance as a career.

(42:53) Building a Family Business Legacy
Culture's role in retaining employees in family businesses, emphasizing values, maintaining a family-like atmosphere, planning for the future, and acknowledging previous generation's support.

(48:54) Lessons Learned From Family Business Legacy
Growing up in a resilient family, acknowledging unique contributions, and the success of Bozzuto Insurance through hard work and dedication.

To learn more about the Capital Region Family Business Center visit our website HERE. To learn more about River City Bank and how they can benefit your family business, visit www.rivercitybank.com

Let us know what you thought of this episode and any other comments you may have.

Picture this: a family business spanning three generations, rooted in the heart of Sacramento, where empathy and integrity have been the guiding lights since 1979. That's the Padilla family for you, as we sit down with three generations of service to our community. Greg, Topo, and Brandon Padilla unravel the rich tapestry of their bail bond legacy. Topo sheds light on a misunderstood profession, correcting the myths and underscoring that bail bonds function as insurance policies designed to ensure court appearances. The Padillas' steadfast adherence to integrity and regulatory compliance shines through, creating a legacy built on trust and respect.

Our conversation takes a journey through time, tracing the evolution of a customer-centric business in an era before digital convenience. Discover how operating 24/7 in downtown Sacramento became a hallmark of their success, and hear personal reflections on connecting with clients and the unexpected familiarity of bailing out peers. Brandon shares poignant family values that infuse their work, emphasizing empathy at times when people need it the most. We explore the intricacies of their profession, including the important roles of indemnitors and the delicate balance of ensuring public safety while holding onto humanity.

As the episode unfolds, we navigate the challenges and triumphs of a generational transition in the business. From resisting a corporate takeover to rekindling their roots and embracing radio advertising, the Padillas' resilience stands out. Greg, Topo, and Brandon illuminate the strengths and challenges inherent in a family-run enterprise, reflecting on the power of legacy and the indelible imprint of compassion on their journey. Through their insights, we see a portrait of a family committed to building a legacy of empathy and respect, challenging misconceptions and fostering a deeper understanding of their profession.

To learn more about Greg Padilla Bail Bonds visit their website HERE.

To learn more about The Capital Region Family Business Center, click on their website HERE.

To learn more about the Capital Region Family Business Center visit our website HERE. To learn more about River City Bank and how they can benefit your family business, visit www.rivercitybank.com

Let us know what you thought of this episode and any other comments you may have.

Family Business Tour + Ice Cream Social
Leatherby’s Family Creamery, 2455 Iron Point Road, Folsom 95630
Wednesday, July 23 | 3:00–5:00 PM
Space is limited, so be sure to sign up soon and bring the whole family! Visit the website to register HERE.

Join your host, Natalie Mariani-Kling, for an inspiring journey as she recounts the remarkable transformation of Dave Leatherby Sr. and his wife Sally, who transitioned from a small farming town in Iowa to a life of profound faith and generosity on the West Coast. She'll explore how Dave Sr.'s career with Safeway, and his mentorship under Bert Bride, led to a life-altering experience through the reading of Catholic saints' lives and his eventual baptism into Catholicism. This newfound faith not only redefined their personal lives but also reshaped their family dynamics and charitable endeavors. As the eldest of ten children, Dave Leatherby Jr. shares his unique perspective on how his parents' commitment to their faith influenced their family and community, despite facing challenges and anti-Catholic sentiment in their Midwest roots.

In the conversation, Natalie delves into the establishment of Leatherby's Family Creamery, a family business built on the solid foundation of faith and values. Dave Sr.'s unwavering commitment to his Catholic faith permeated every aspect of their lives, from never missing daily Mass to integrating these values into their business. Listen in as they explore how this faith-driven optimism and joy laid the groundwork for a successful and joyful family enterprise, creating a legacy that continues to inspire and connect people through shared experiences and service.

The journey wasn't without its trials, however. You'll hear stories of overcoming financial struggles, skepticism from banks, and the pivotal moments of support from unexpected places, such as the generous loan from Mr. Ratterman and the transformative feature by the Sacramento Bee. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, the importance of community, perseverance, and divine providence in building and sustaining Leatherby's Family Creamery is clear. This episode is a testament to the power of faith, family, and the enduring impact of generosity and kindness in both personal and business life.

To learn more about Leatherby's Family Creamery visit: https://leatherbys.net/
To learn more about the Capital Region Family Business Center visit:https://capfamilybus.org/
To learn more about our sponsor, River City Bank, visit: https://rivercitybank.com/

Episode Highlights
(01:56 - 03:19) Life-Changing Encounter With Catholic Faith
(12:13 - 13:18) Impact of Positive Spirit and Joy
(15:57 - 17:12) From Salesman to Ice Cream Entrepreneur
(20:14 - 21:05) Legacy of Longstanding Ice Cream Parlor
(22:58 - 24:40) Ice Cream Parlor Business Development
(33:05 - 34:20) Leatherby Family Creamy Business Success
(41:36 - 42:52) Family's Contribution to Business Franchise
(47:27 - 48:55) Family Business Struggles and Resilience
(51:51 - 53:05) Importance of Family Business Communication
(01:04:44 - 01:05:50) Act of Kindness in Community

Chapter Summaries
(00:00) Family Embraces Faith and Generosity
Dave Sr. and Sally's transformative journey to Catholicism resh

To learn more about the Capital Region Family Business Center visit our website HERE. To learn more about River City Bank and how they can benefit your family business, visit www.rivercitybank.com

Let us know what you thought of this episode and any other comments you may have.

Imagine growing up in a family business where your weekends were spent in a rehab clinic, with the promise of "one more minute" being more a mom’s mantra than a reality. This episode brings you into the heartwarming and often hilarious world of the Burger family, the minds behind Burger Rehabilitation Systems. Carol Burger, the pioneering founder, joins us with her sons, Sean and Eric, to share their inspiring journey from a tight-knit family operation to a successful enterprise with over 200 employees. The conversation is rich with nostalgia as they recount tales of childhood antics, unexpected lessons learned alongside a pizza parlor, and even the time the Folsom Zoo called for help with a bear named Ursula.

As the business has evolved, so have the roles and dynamics within the Burger family. Carol reflects on the unplanned path that led her to entrepreneurship and the resilience required to navigate the healthcare industry's shifting landscape. Sean and Eric candidly discuss how they carved out their own niches within the company, balancing individual passions with family expectations. From sports performance clinics to diversifying skill sets beyond clinical roles, the brothers highlight the importance of innovation and respect in transitioning leadership to the second generation. Their story offers valuable insights into the complexities and opportunities of running a family business.

Healthcare industry challenges are numerous, from administrative burdens to high clinician turnover rates, but the Burgers present a hopeful perspective on the future. They tackle tough subjects like work-life balance and the competitive job market while celebrating the profound impact of dedicated care. Personal stories, including that of a long-term client whose life was transformed through therapy, underscore the deep sense of purpose that drives their work. With every triumph and setback, the Burger family exemplifies the power of perseverance, the importance of a supportive network, and the joy of small victories along the road to success.

For more information on Burger Rehabilitation, you can visit the website HERE.

Chapter Summaries

(00:00) Burger Rehabilitation Systems Family Introduction
The Burger family shares their roles and the history of their family-run business, which offers various healthcare services in the Sacramento area.

(09:19) Growing Up in the Family Business
Childhood memories, family involvement, and unique experiences in the early days of the Burger family business.

(18:53) Evolution of Family Business Roles
Family tradition, stability, and diversifying skills shape career paths in healthcare within a family-run company.

(24:12) Navigating Family Business Autonomy and Control
Carol and her sons reflect on their journey in a family business, emphasizing resilience, adaptability, leadership challenges, and mentorship.

(32:14) Navigating Family Business Vision
Transitioning leadership in a family business, balancing personalities and perspectives, generational shift, establishing clear path for second generation's leadership.

(45:02) Challenges and Opportunities in Healthcare
Healthcare industry challenges include high costs, insurance complexities, clinician turnover, and evolving attitudes towards work-life balance.

(53:43) Family Business Encouragement and Support
Persistence, continuous learning,

To learn more about the Capital Region Family Business Center visit our website HERE. To learn more about River City Bank and how they can benefit your family business, visit www.rivercitybank.com

Let us know what you thought of this episode and any other comments you may have.

Can family loyalty coexist with personal fulfillment in a family business? What happens when the family legacy is upended by a choice to leave? And when that choice is made by a woman or daughter vs a son? Join us for a heartfelt conversation with Melissa Ortiz of River Vista Farms as we unravel the emotional complexities of returning to family-run enterprises. Through candid storytelling, we examine the challenges of stepping into roles shaped by generational expectations and how these experiences can lead to the difficult decision to step away. This episode promises to deliver insights on balancing family ties with personal aspirations, offering guidance for those navigating similar paths.

Melissa and I reflect on the wisdom handed down by our family members and the courageous journey of implementing change in traditional business environments. We share stories of embracing modern tools and strategies to breathe new life into family businesses, from digital systems to employee wellness programs. These experiences highlight the importance of aligning one's skills and passions with their professional roles and how this alignment—or lack thereof—can impact personal well-being and relationships as well as the family business itself.

Throughout the episode, we explore the delicate dance of communication and legacy within family enterprises. We touch on the value and power of open dialogues and the courage needed to pursue paths that truly resonate with one's individual dreams. Whether you're part of a family business or simply intrigued by the dynamics of these unique ventures and how a woman's role in them can be difficult, you'll find our discussion underscores the lasting value of prioritizing personal growth and familial harmony over traditional notions of business success.


CHAPTER SUMMARIES
(00:00) Navigating Family Business Challenges
Family business members discuss the emotional journey of returning to and leaving a family business, highlighting the tension between loyalty and personal fulfillment.

(11:36) Returning to Family Business Legacy
Returning to a family business in Colusa, California, reflecting on childhood experiences, navigating dynamics and challenges, and fostering a thriving work environment.

(18:01) Navigating Family Business Leadership
Returning to a family-run agricultural business in California, navigating HR compliance, and balancing personal fulfillment with family loyalty.

(32:13) Implementing Digital Systems for Family Business
Nature's challenges and successes in implementing the H-2A worker visa program on a ranch, utilizing familial connections and transitioning to digital processes.

(42:03) Entrepreneurial Vision in Family Business
Transitioning from traditional to digital marketing, facing resistance, prioritizing employee wellness, and community support in a family business.

(46:56) Navigating Family Business Succession
Returning to hometown, balancing family loyalty and personal fulfillment, facing financial pressures, and transitioning to align with passions.

(54:23) Balancing Family Business and Relationships
Family business complexities, stepping away for improved relationships, challenges of change, prioritizing personal well-being and relationships.

(01:02:20) Family Business Communication and Legacy
Communication, education, work-life balance, and parental expectations in family businesses and t

To learn more about the Capital Region Family Business Center visit our website HERE. To learn more about River City Bank and how they can benefit your family business, visit www.rivercitybank.com