In this special kickoff episode of Chit Chat with Derek and Cat, your hosts—Catherine Wygant Fossett and Derek Volk—turn the mic on each other to share their own family business journeys, the inspiration behind the podcast, and what you can expect from future episodes.

Catherine, Executive Director of the Institute for Family-Owned Business (IFOB), and Derek, CEO of Volk Packaging Corporation, have worked with and within family businesses for decades. Now, they're teaming up to explore the stories behind Maine’s most fascinating family-run companies.

Together, they chat about:

• Why family businesses are the backbone of our economy—making up over 80% of businesses nationwide

• The unique dynamics, values, and legacy that make family-run companies so resilient

• The joys and challenges of working with loved ones

• How businesses navigate succession, growth, and generational change

• And what listeners can learn from real families building real businesses

Whether you’re in a family business, love small business stories, or just enjoy authentic conversations, this episode sets the stage for a podcast full of insight, inspiration, and a whole lot of heart.

🎙️ Real conversations. Real families. Real business.

Show notes:

Visit www.fambusiness.org

https://volkboxes.com