The Pat Kenny Show What are the difficulties of working in a family business?
Nov 10, 2025
Stephanie Regan, a clinical psychotherapist and co-host of the Tough Love podcast, dives into the complexities of working in family businesses. She discusses how blurred boundaries and role confusion can create conflict at home and work. The conversation highlights trust issues and sibling rivalry, alongside the unique benefits of shared values and quick decision-making. Stephanie advises setting clear job descriptions and establishing boundaries to separate family life from business to protect relationships. It’s a balancing act full of challenges and rewards.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Family Ties Multiply Business Complexity
- Family relationships add constant complexity when mixed with business roles.
- Broken trust in family firms damages both company and home life for years.
Public Family Firm Breakups
- Pat cites high-profile Irish examples like the Doyle Hotels and Blarney Woollen Mills.
- These public family splits mirror similar dynamics in smaller firms.
Shared Values Support Long-Term Commitment
- Family firms benefit from shared values and longer-term thinking.
- That loyalty often produces commitment and willingness to invest time for the business.