A TV series about a dysfunctional family dynasty at war over succession is mirrored (but not as dramatically) in many small family businesses up and down the land.

With virtually every dealership or supplier in the agri-turf sector being a private family business, the challenges associated with deciding who is best equipped to take the business forward in a changing world are very real.

In the latest episode of the Inside Agri-Turf podcast, Chris Biddle talks to Stephen Shortt, a leading small business strategist about the tensions, the planning, the dynamics, and the personal ambitions that come into to play when deciding on succession issues.

Each family set up is different. Sometimes succession is a straightforward matter. At other times when several family members are involved, damaging conflicts can arise that can spread from the boardroom, to dining room and even the bedroom.

Speaking from personal experience, Stephen outlines how potentially serious family disagreements, often as a result of dogmatic attitudes, can be diffused to the benefit of all concerned when deciding on succession planning.

Listen to episode.