Safe Space with Francesco Lombardo

On this episode of Safe Space, Francesco is joined by Brad Scott, Founder and Managing Director of EWM Group in Brisbane, Australia, and a pioneer of the Australian Multi-Family Office industry. The conversation begins with a retrospective on the Family Office field in Australia over the past 20 years, examining how it has changed and what to expect with the next generation. The discussion then delves into the critical role of family offices in managing family dynamics and emotional challenges, emphasizing that while investment strategies are important, the emotional aspect is paramount for the success of family wealth management. Connect with me here: • https://www.linkedin.com/in/francesco-lombardo-fea-496a7966/ • https://www.facebook.com/VeritageFamilyOffice • https://www.youtube.com/@VeritageInternational • https://veritage.ca

In this episode of Safe Space, Francesco sits down with Dr. Megan Gerhardt to explore the power—and complexity—of leading across generations. Megan shares why embracing diverse expertise is essential for building high-performing teams, especially within family businesses where generational dynamics often run deep. While it may feel easier to work with people who think like we do, she explains that true productivity and innovation emerge when families intentionally leverage their unique perspectives, experiences, and strengths. Connect with me here: • https://www.linkedin.com/in/francesco-lombardo-fea-496a7966/ • https://www.facebook.com/VeritageFamilyOffice • https://www.youtube.com/@VeritageInternational • https://veritage.ca

In this episode of Safe Space with Francesco Lombardo, Amanda Challen, CEO of Advance Civil Engineering, shares her journey as a next-generation leader in Australia's construction industry. She opens up about navigating gender dynamics, building self-worth, and the importance of clear boundaries in family business. Amanda's story highlights courage, authenticity, and the power of open communication in leading with integrity and purpose. 🎧 Tune in to hear Amanda's insights on leading with integrity, empowering others, and redefining what it means to be a next-generation leader. Connect with me here: • https://www.linkedin.com/in/francesco-lombardo-fea-496a7966/ • https://www.facebook.com/VeritageFamilyOffice • https://www.youtube.com/@VeritageInternational • https://veritage.ca

In this episode of Safe Space with Francesco Lombardo, Brandi Harleaux, award-winning entrepreneur and second-generation CEO of South Post Oak Recycling Center, shares her journey from leading teams at Fortune 100 companies — including Target, Northrop Grumman, and Disney — to stepping into her family business. Brandi reflects on her decision to pursue an MBA while working full-time at Disney, and how education and real-world experience gave her the tools to navigate the complexities of joining a family enterprise. She also discusses the importance of preparation, financial literacy, and purpose-driven leadership — lessons that continue to guide her at the helm of SPORC, where she leads with a philosophy of taking care of your people and positively impacting the community. 🎧 Listen now to hear Brandi's insights on growth, courage, and redefining what leadership looks like in the next generation of family business. Connect with me here: • https://www.linkedin.com/in/francesco-lombardo-fea-496a7966/ • https://www.facebook.com/VeritageFamilyOffice • https://www.youtube.com/@VeritageInternational • https://veritage.ca

In this engaging conversation, Kelly Willis Green—a certified money coach and host of Serious Coin—shares her journey from private wealth marketing to transforming relationships with money. She discusses the emotional impact of money, including childhood beliefs that influence financial behavior. Kelly highlights how money reflects one’s self-relationship and introduces the concept of money archetypes, exploring their significance in shaping financial habits. She emphasizes curiosity as a driver for personal growth and effective money management.

In this episode, Francesco Lombardo speaks with Robert and Kaylee Fukui about their journey as business consultants who help family businesses thrive while maintaining healthy marriages. They discuss the importance of balancing work and family life, overcoming guilt in parenting, and creating intentional relationships. The Fukuis share personal stories and practical advice on how to foster communication and connection within families, emphasizing the need for emotional security alongside financial stability. Connect with Robert & Kaylee: https://marriedentrepreneur.co/safespace Connect with me here: • https://www.linkedin.com/in/francesco-lombardo-fea-496a7966/ • https://www.facebook.com/VeritageFamilyOffice • https://www.youtube.com/@VeritageInternational • https://veritage.ca

In this episode, Franco interviews James Kerr, author of 'Legacy', exploring the profound lessons on leadership derived from the New Zealand All Blacks rugby team. They discuss the importance of character, culture, and values in leadership, the concept of leaving a legacy, and the intergenerational aspects of family businesses. Kerr emphasizes the significance of vulnerability, the role of external coaching, and the power of language in teams. The conversation also delves into the essential role of love in creating a nurturing environment for growth and performance. Connect with me here: • https://www.linkedin.com/in/francesco-lombardo-fea-496a7966/ • https://www.facebook.com/VeritageFamilyOffice • https://www.youtube.com/@VeritageInternational • https://veritage.ca

In this insightful conversation, Dr. Sandra Primiano, a psychologist and mental health leader specializing in trauma and anxiety, sheds light on how small, repeated experiences can be just as impactful as major life events. She delves into neuroplasticity and the importance of emotional awareness, encouraging listeners to embrace all emotions, even shame. The discussion also includes practical strategies for managing emotional triggers, transforming default identities, and the life-changing power of self-compassion and gratitude in personal growth.

Dr. Sandra Primiano, a seasoned clinical psychologist, dives into mental health complexities, focusing on burnout in family businesses. She discusses how burnout manifests in unique forms, driven by familial pressures. The conversation highlights the importance of emotional awareness and mindfulness in a tech-saturated world. Dr. Primiano emphasizes the transformative power of understanding personal values and offers insights on self-awareness to foster healthier relationships and navigate life's emotional landscape.

Jen Risher, a speaker, philanthropist, and investor, shares her transformative journey from middle-class to sudden wealth. She reveals the emotional complexities of new wealth, including feelings of guilt and isolation. Jen emphasizes the necessity of understanding one's money story and advocates for open dialogues around financial issues to foster connection. The conversation highlights the importance of vulnerability in achieving authenticity and bridging generational gaps in family businesses through mutual understanding and communication.