Nearly 150 Years Strong | Rob Everist of L. G. Everist, Inc.

Rob Everist of L. G. Everist, Inc. shares lessons from 150 years of family business, dynasty trusts, governance, and preparing next-gen leaders. Rob Everist, a fourth-generation leader at L. G. Everist, Inc., reflects on 150 years of family business resilience, growth, and adaptation. Founded in 1876 as a coal supplier, L. G. Everist has evolved into a diversified enterprise in aggregates, concrete, asphalt, rail, and land development. Rob shares his earliest memories working in the sand and gravel pits as a teenager and how those experiences shaped his view of family business responsibility. He explains the company’s approach to next-generation entry, which requires education, outside work experience, and earned credibility before joining. [00:07:50] “Everybody’s gotta realize that you gotta bring something to the table. You just can’t show up with the right last name and think that’s gonna be enough.” A key part of LG Everist’s long-term stability has been its dynasty trust ownership structure, established decades ago to enable generational continuity while avoiding common transfer hurdles. Rob emphasizes how this structure, combined with strong governance through a board with non-family members, positions the company for long-term success. Though certainly intertwined, Rob stresses that outside perspectives help both the family and business attain balance. [00:16:57] “Treat the business as a business and treat your family as a family.” Rob’s insightful reflections provide a roadmap for navigating the challenges and opportunities of sustaining a family enterprise into its next century and beyond. Links Rob Everist | LinkedIn L. G. Everist, Inc.’s Website Prairie Family Business Association’s Website