Can You Really Build a Thriving Business with Family? Here's What No One Tells You

Ever wondered if working with your mom (or any family member) could actually grow your businessor just make the holidays awkward?

In this episode of The Brown Way to Money Podcast, Alejandra Rojas sits down with Vonmarie Thomas, a brilliant NYC-based accountant, fractional CFO, and Afro-Latina powerhouse, to explore the beauty and boundaries of working with family in business. From onboarding her mom as a business partner to setting emotional and contractual boundaries, Vonmarie shares the behind-the-scenes of building generational wealth while keeping relationships strong.

If you’ve ever thought about working with your parents or family—but fear the tension, blurred lines, or cultural hierarchies—this episode is your permission slip and your playbook.

Important Links: Important Links:

Visit The Brown Way to Money – www.brownwaytomoney.com Rate & Review This Podcast – www.brownwaytomoney.com/rate Follow Alejandra Rojas on LinkedIn – www.brownwaytomoney.com/LinkedIN Follow Vonmarie on Instagram – @vonmarie_breakaway_ba Connect with Vonmarie on LinkedIn – linkedin.com/in/vonmariethomas

Key Takeaways:

Business + Family Can Work (If You Set the Rules) Contracts, clear communication, and defined roles are essential—even when you’re hiring your mom.

You Are the Authority—Even in Family Dynamics Vonmarie shares how redefining “authority” helped her lead confidently while maintaining deep respect for her mom.

Soft Skills Are the Secret Sauce Kindness, humility, forgiveness, and emotional awareness are non-negotiables when business meets family.

Generational Wealth is More Than Money From passing on business knowledge to creating travel memories, Vonmarie shows how wealth lives in both assets and experiences.

Don’t Wait for Permission to Lead Learn how to stand in your power—even when you're working with people who raised you.

In This Episode, You’ll Discover:

• How do I set boundaries when working with family in my business?

• What contracts and expectations should I have in place before hiring a parent?

• Can I still be a good daughter/son and also be the boss?

• How do cultural expectations impact our leadership style as women of color?

• What are the emotional and financial benefits of involving family in business?

• How do I prevent business from taking over every personal moment?

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About Our Guest:

Vonmarie Thomas is a skilled accounting professional with expertise in complex bookkeeping, financial reporting, budgeting, cloud technology, and auditing. As a bookkeeper, controller, and fractional CFO, she brings both technical excellence and a bright, approachable personality to her work with small business clients.

She serves a variety of industries including Trust & Estate, social media creators, nonprofits, hospitality, and professional services. Based in NYC, Vonmarie leverages cutting-edge tech to simplify bookkeeping, tax prep, and financial operations for entrepreneurs. Outside the office, you’ll find her vibing at live concerts or jet-setting to tropical destinations with her friends.