This episode of Family Business Matters dives into the role boundaries play in creating healthier relationships and stronger family enterprises. With host Cooper Biersach, our guest, Melissa Mitchell-Blitch, author and family dynamics expert, shares why boundaries are often misunderstood, why they matter, and how they can transform the way we lead and live. Through real-world examples and practical strategies, you’ll learn how boundaries clarify roles, reduce conflict, and help individuals and organizations thrive. Expect actionable insights you can apply immediately to navigate complexity with confidence.

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In the Company of Family: How to Thrive When Business is Personal

Cooper Biersach

Melissa Mitchell-Blitch

In this episode of Family Business Matters, host Cooper Biersach sits down with Amy Renkert-Thomas, a lawyer, educator, and former president of her family’s fifth-generation manufacturing business. Amy brings decades of experience in family enterprise governance and ownership to the conversation.

Together, they explore what governance really means, why it matters for family businesses, and how it evolves across generations.

Listeners will learn:

• • How family business governance differs from public company governance.
  • Why shared purpose and vision are essential for long-term success.
  • The role of owners and boards in creating clarity and alignment.
  • Practical steps for building governance structures that fit your family enterprise.

Whether you’re a founder wondering if governance is worth the effort or a next-generation leader preparing for the future, this episode offers actionable insights to help your family business thrive.

Featured Notes:

Engaged Ownership by Amy-Renkert Thomas

Building a Successful Family Business Board The Family Enterprise Center

Get Connected

In this special two-guest episode, Lauren Willets Director of UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School’s The Family Enterprise Center, sits down with brothers Frankie Kelly IV (UNC BSBA ’14, UNC MAC '15)

and Stephen Kelly (UNC BSBA '17) to reminisce about their Carolina days as Family Enterprise students and lacrosse champions. They share candid insights on their early career paths, the decision to return to their family business, and the realities of navigating family dynamics. Listeners will enjoy hearing how these two brothers found their way back to Kelly Benefits—and what they’ve learned along the journey.