Host Laurie Barkman, The Business Transition Sherpa®, interviews Maryann Bell, a partner at Wingspan Legacy Partners, about the common myths and challenges facing next generation successors in family businesses. Maryann shares insights on the importance of communication, education, and bringing in outside expertise to navigate the delicate dynamics of family business transitions.  Listen in as they discuss strategies for stair-stepping next gens into the business, assessing fit, and managing the transfer of ownership and authority.  This episode provides valuable guidance for family business leaders and successors looking to ensure a smooth and successful succession.   Show Notes: - Common myths facing next generation successors in family businesses - Challenges family business advisors face, including uncertainty and communication issues - Advice for families on embracing succession planning and bringing in outside expertise - Importance of engagement, education, and clear employment policies for next gen successors - Navigating the balance between leadership and ownership succession - Strategies for assessing fit and managing non-operating family members - Transferring ownership and authority, and the shift from owner-operator to owner-investor   Connect with Maryann Bell: Wingspan Legacy Partners Maryann Bell LinkedIn   What’s your entrepreneurial endgame? If you want your business to be ready to sell at maximum value, now is the best time to start planning.  Join the Endgame Entrepreneurship Masterclass at https://thebusinesstransitionsherpa.com/course/. Get a 15% discount at checkout with code: successionstories15 _______________________________________ 📘 THE BUSINESS TRANSITION HANDBOOK: Get a free digital copy of "The Business Transition Handbook: How To Avoid Succession Pitfalls and Create Valuable Exit Options" by author Laurie Barkman:  https://thebusinesstransitionhandbook.com _______________________________________ ❤️  Write a Review on Rate This Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/successionstories