Our advisors recommended adopting "Best Practices" for family business, which included establishing a board of advisors and a family council. We started this journey in 2013, shortly after purchasing the company. One of our new board members had personal experience managing his own family business, so we turned to him for guidance to kick things off. After reviewing various topics and resources, we decided to begin with the help of a facilitator. However, even with that support, our start was not as smooth as we had hoped.

A Harsh Welcome to America

A bystander sneered as Narcyz Snarski disembarked, "There's another 'DP' right off the boat." Narcyz ignored the insult, fully aware of his worn appearance after his harrowing escape from Russia. Though unfamiliar with the term "DP," he sensed its derogatory nature. In his homeland, he had been labeled a White Russian—a term signifying the complex heritage of those from the region straddling Poland and Russia, now known as Belarus. Raised as a Polish nobleman, Narcyz carried the weight of history; Poland was a nation erased from maps back in 1795, and still didn’t exist when he arrived in Boston, MA, in 1912.

Introduction

Susan Hammet Tyler served as the First Lady of Virginia from 1898 to 1902 during her husband's governorship, James Hoge Tyler. A gracious hostess and devoted civic leader, Susan exemplified the role of a political partner in an era when women did not hold office themselves. Her influence, though subtle, was significant, spanning state functions in the Executive Mansion to grassroots efforts in Radford and beyond.

Early Life and Marriage

Born into the respected Hammet family, Susan’s upbringing prepared her for a life of leadership and service. She married James Hoge Tyler, a fellow Presbyterian and political figure, creating a partnership that would define much of her public and private identity. Before James assumed office, the couple lived on their estate, Belle Hampton, where Susan demonstrated her household and community management skills.

For years, I wasn’t merely relegated to the kids’ table — I was the family's baby, the last one considered and the first to be overlooked. As my sisters strategized their way to the adult table, I watched their diplomatic maneuvers with a mix of amusement and resignation, fully aware that no matter my efforts, I would never attain the privilege of sitting at that esteemed table.

At every holiday gathering, the “kids’ table” is a rite of passage — a symbol of unpreparedness for the grown-up conversations. However, in the context of a family business, that table can become a metaphor for the long journey from junior roles to executive leadership. Eventually, the children grow up, gain experience, and prepare to lead. And when the time comes to move from the kids’ table to the head of the table, a well-crafted succession plan becomes essential.

Smart, fiercely opinionated, and irresistibly tenacious — these three powerful words encapsulate the extraordinary essence of Aunt Kathryn, a remarkable woman whose petite 4 feet 3 inches stature belied the monumental legacy she forged. Whether you were a vendor proudly showcasing your goods, a customer in search of a familiar smile, a relative sharing cherished family tales, or one of the countless children wandering through the vibrant aisles of the family’s beloved store, her presence was a beacon, amplifying the values she embodied. Her relentless drive, charming quirks, and unwavering sense of purpose radiated in every interaction and endeavor, leaving an unforgettable imprint on every heart she touched.

A personal purpose statement is a powerful mission statement that aligns your actions with your fundamental values and aspirations. Crafting this statement involves understanding what truly matters to you and articulating it in a way that inspires and directs your choices with clarity and intention.

For the past decade, we have journeyed alongside families, exploring their values and aspirations. But everything transformed when we introduced the powerful concept of crafting a purpose statement. Goals evolved into grand visions, bold and inspiring. They became avenues for meaningful impact, fueled by a newfound clarity in their direction, life’s mission, and legacy. Let’s dive into how you, too, can formulate your North Star.

In 1910, Mary (Maryanna) Ratajczak, a 32-year-old Polish immigrant, was already laying the foundation for a family business that would define generations. She lived in North Chicago, Illinois, with her husband, Adam, and their five children in a modest rental home. Though she was born in Poland, the census listed her native tongue as English, a testament to her swift adaptation to her new country. A literate and resourceful woman, she was officially recorded as a homemaker—but in reality, she was so much more.

Eliza Jane Johnston Hoge was a woman of remarkable heritage and social standing in 19th-century Virginia. As the daughter of an influential early settler and the wife of a distinguished lawyer, she lived through a transformative period in Southern history, from the antebellum era through the Civil War and Reconstruction. Her life intertwined with some of Virginia’s most notable families, and her legacy endures through historical records and genealogical accounts.

You have to hand it to my family: surviving for seventy years in business, they have certainly witnessed their fair share of ups and downs when it comes to the goodies they sell. When life hands you lemons (or outdated merchandise), business plans often get a makeover. But let's delve into my family’s drama and explore this transition by flipping through some obituaries and prayer cards because nothing captures 'business strategy' quite like a good old family funeral!

The smell of Bengay, Epsom salt, or baking soda—depending on whether you entered grandma’s house in the morning or evening—invokes memories of our family's dynamic and our never-ending family business responsibilities. I can still picture the plastic on the couches, inviting you to stick to it on a hot day, and the recliners positioned like sentinels in front of the TV, which had a security monitor on top. Those watching could keep an eye on any intruders trying to steal a candy bar or monitor our work ethic; heaven forbid there was any procrastination by a worker, which happened to be all related.

Child labor in a family business is a reality. While child labor laws in the United States protect young workers from unsafe jobs and ensure they do not jeopardize their education, these protections do not apply within the context of a family business. Honestly, I have worked since I could walk, and I would argue that there’s no better education than working in a family business. However, things have not always been ideal. There are some definite drawbacks. Here are some reasons why family businesses can be amazing or not.

Growing up with Great-Depression-era parents and grandparents in a family business was like attending a masterclass in frugality—complete with pop quizzes on who could survive the longest without turning on the heat! I distinctly remember the “don’t touch the thermostat” rule, essentially carving it into stone like a biblical commandment. Sure, there were plenty of valuable lessons tugged into my memory, but they never made it onto a vision board or a motivational poster. Or so I thought...

Culinary tourism is rapidly gaining popularity, with travelers seeking authentic food experiences and local flavors that leave lasting memories. Belle Hampton Farm is a must-visit destination for those searching for a unique and unforgettable culinary adventure. Nestled in the heart of nature, this picturesque farm offers much more than scenic views—it’s home to the exquisite Back Creek Wagyu, a premium beef experience that’s hard to find anywhere else. Belle Hampton Farm is truly a place to gather, connect with others, and savor life’s most delicious moments.

“Rain, rain, go away, come again another day.” This simple nursery rhyme has become my personal mantra over the past few days. The relentless downpour has transformed our farm into a soggy, muddied expanse, turning Back Creek into a raging torrent that overflows into Branch Creek and across our fields. What used to be calm, open land is now home to a newly formed third pond. The water roars like a wild beast, intimidating even the bravest of our dogs—none of whom are eager to dive in for a swim despite their mud-covered coats begging for a rinse.

History has always fascinated me, prompting a deep dive into the genealogical records of my husband’s lineage, tracing his ancestors back to the early days of America. I used to joke that his family came over on the Mayflower, but I discovered it was actually in 1682 when William Hoge arrived on the Caledonia. After publishing my book, "Sleeping in the Valley," I explored my ancestry, mainly focusing on my father, Charles Joseph Szostak. He served in the army during WWII and participated in the Battle of the Bulge, yet he rarely spoke about his wartime experiences, leaving me unaware of his bravery.

Imagine a single document capable of uniting your family, preserving wealth, and fostering harmony for generations — that’s the power of a well-crafted family charter. However, creating such a document is not without its challenges. Avoiding common pitfalls ensures that the family charter remains a meaningful and effective tool.

Who is the legendary Lunsford Richardson? His name is etched in the annals of American pharmaceutical history, celebrated as the innovative mind behind Vicks VapoRub. His entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to creating accessible remedies for common ailments have made him a household name. Yet, his legacy is intertwined with another prominent family—the Hoge family. We will explore the life of Lunsford Richardson, his groundbreaking contributions to medicine, and the intriguing connection to the Hoge family.

Are you thinking about holding family meetings? Perhaps your financial advisor suggested it, or you’ve heard about other families that have found them beneficial. While getting started may seem straightforward, it's important to understand their value, how to conduct them, and the benefits they offer. In our experience, initiating family meetings has significantly improved our lives.

This blog explores the transformative power of generosity during the holiday season, drawing insights from Adam Grant's research on giving in Give and Take and lessons from the classic story of The Grinch Who Stole Christmas. It delves into the benefits of giving, strategies for sustainable generosity, and how a giving mindset can foster success and fulfillment year-round.

This blog presents 14 creative and engaging activities to help you set and achieve your biggest goals. From vision boarding and life wheel assessments to backward planning and accountability systems, these strategies make goal setting practical and inspiring. Activities like bucket list creation and time capsules encourage dreaming big, while tools such as obstacle mapping and goal ladders break ambitions into manageable steps. Whether you’re reflecting during an annual retreat or celebrating milestones with rewards, these methods guide you toward turning aspirations into actionable plans. Start your journey to success with these innovative approaches!