Safe Space with Francesco Lombardo

How do you modernize a 70-year-old family brand without losing its soul? Marshall Rabil, CEO of Hubs Peanut Company, joins Safe Space to discuss family business succession, co-create a family legacy and innovation strategy. 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, Francesco Lombardo sits down with Karen Alko, a fourth-generation steward of ABC Recycling and her role as a "family champion" for governance and legacy. As a 2025 Transformational Women in Family Business Award recipient, Karen discusses how she integrates core family values into long-term strategy and the importance of next-generation planning. The conversation explores her efforts in fostering community relations and social impact, including her leadership in Indigenous reconciliation and staff education. 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, Francesco Lombardo interviews Anthony Contrucci, a fifth-generation member of a family business, Centier Bank. They discuss the concept of a 'family champion'—a person who plays a crucial role in preserving family legacy and navigating the complexities of family dynamics. Anthony shares his personal journey, the challenges he faced, and the importance of emotional cohesion and governance in family enterprises. He emphasizes the need for passion, support, and continuous learning for those stepping into the role of a family champion. 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, Francesco Lombardo speaks with parenting expert Manu Brune about the complexities of parenting, especially in wealthy families. They discuss the challenges of navigating emotional intelligence, entitlement, and the importance of compassion in parenting. Manu emphasizes the need for parents to teach their children how to handle uncomfortable emotions and the role of grandparents in fostering emotional development. The conversation also touches on reframing guilt and shame in parenting, highlighting that relationships can heal through presence and awareness. 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, Kunal Amalean shares insights on the dynamics of family businesses, emphasizing the importance of closeness among family members. He discusses how his family maintained strong relationships despite geographical distances and the intentional efforts made to ensure emotional intimacy across generations. Kunal highlights the return on investment of fostering closeness, not only in terms of family harmony but also in business success. He concludes with advice for future generations on the significance of understanding oneself and others within the family context. 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, host Francesco Lombardo welcomes Véronique Sanders, the steward of Château Haut-Bailly, a prestigious Bordeaux winery with a rich history dating back 800 years. Véronique shares about the complexity of her family's history with the business, emphasizing the emotional connection she has with the land and the importance of passion in winemaking. She discusses the responsibilities that come with being a custodian of the estate, highlighting the need to preserve its legacy for future generations while adapting to modern challenges such as climate change and shifting consumer habits. Throughout the conversation, Véronique reflects on the evolving landscape of the wine industry, particularly the changing drinking habits of younger generations. She believes that while studies suggest a decline in wine consumption among youth, personal experiences reveal a different narrative. The episode concludes with Véronique offering valuable advice to both current and future generations, urging them to stay curious and authentic while embracing their roles as stewards of their family legacies. 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, Daniel Trimarchi and Francesco explore the often-unspoken complexities of family dynamics, particularly the tendency toward binary thinking (right or wrong, in or out, success or failure) that can quietly limit relationships within enterprising families. Daniel challenges this mindset by inviting families to recognize the "gray space," where nuance, curiosity, and empathy create room for deeper connection, better decision-making, and unexpected opportunities. Drawing on more than 16 years of global experience advising business families, family offices, and high-net-worth individuals, Daniel shares how governance frameworks, clear communication, and accountability can help families navigate complexity without losing trust or emotional safety. As National Lead for Family Dynamics & Governance at KPMG Australia and a member of KPMG's Global Centre of Excellence for Family Business, he brings a rare blend of academic insight and practical application to conversations about change, conflict, and continuity. Throughout the episode, Daniel emphasizes that embracing complexity—rather than avoiding it—can unlock creativity, strengthen relationships, and support more sustainable family enterprises across generations. 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, Marc Kielburger unpacks the difference between happiness and fulfillment, explaining why fulfillment is a deeper state of being that shapes how we experience the world. He reflects on stepping off the "happiness treadmill" and what it means to build a life rooted in purpose. Marc draws on more than 30 years as a social entrepreneur, advising global leaders and co-creating movements that inspire meaningful impact. A Harvard and Oxford graduate and Rhodes Scholar, he has worked with changemakers like Richard Branson, Oprah Winfrey, and Sheryl Sandberg. He is the co-founder of Legacy+ and Realize the Dream, and blends longevity science with emotional wellness through Unlimited Life. As co-host of the My Legacy Podcast and iHeart radio show, Marc continues to explore what it means to live a fulfilled life. 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

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 discusses her decision to pursue an MBA while working full-time at the Walt Disney Company. She reflects on the challenges of entering a family business and the importance of gaining unique perspectives through education. Brandi emphasizes the value of practical experience and preparation in business school, including projects like company valuations and understanding financial statements. 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, host Francesco Lombardo speaks with wealth coach Kelly Willis Green about the emotional and psychological aspects of money. They explore Kelly's journey into wealth coaching, the dynamics of marrying into wealth, and the importance of understanding one's relationship with money. The conversation delves into the impact of childhood beliefs on financial behaviors, the connection between money and relationships, and the significance of curiosity in fostering innovation and personal growth. Kelly shares insights on transforming money history into intentional money management and discusses various money archetypes that influence financial behaviors. Connect with Kelly: • www.kellywillisgreen.com • Serious Coin: Rich Conversations About Wealth Podcast Connect with me here: • www.linkedin.com/in/francesco-lombardo-fea-496a7966/ • www.facebook.com/VeritageFamilyOffice • www.youtube.com/@VeritageInternational • veritage.ca

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 our second episode with Dr. Sandra Primiano, we discuss the nuances of trauma, emphasizing that it is not solely defined by major life events but can also stem from repeated minor experiences. The conversation explores how these traumas shape behaviors and relationships, the importance of self-awareness, and the journey towards transforming learned behaviors. Dr. Primiano highlights the significance of neuroplasticity in changing emotional pathways, the necessity of embracing all emotions, and the power of self-compassion and gratitude in personal development. 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, Dr. Sandra Primiano discusses the complexities of mental health, particularly focusing on burnout within the context of family businesses. She explores the various forms of burnout, its causes, and its impact on individuals and systems. The conversation delves into the importance of emotional awareness, the influence of ancestral traditions, and the necessity of mindfulness in daily life. Dr. Primiano emphasizes the power of choice in emotional responses and the significance of understanding one's values for personal transformation. 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, Jen Risher shares her journey from a middle-class background to sudden wealth due to unimaginable success for her and her husband early in their careers. She discusses the emotional complexities that come with newfound wealth, including feelings of shame and guilt, and the importance of understanding one's money story. Jen emphasizes the need for open conversations about money to foster connection and purpose, and she advocates for using wealth to create equity and support others. The discussion highlights the significance of vulnerability and listening across generations in family businesses. 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, Francesco Lombardo and Dave Specht discuss the dynamics of family businesses, focusing on the importance of empathy, communication, and understanding between generations. They explore how the rising generation is often misunderstood and the need for them to find their own identity separate from family expectations. The conversation emphasizes the significance of relationships over financial capital and the necessity for open dialogue about wealth transfer and family dynamics. They also touch on the evolving landscape of financial advisory services and the importance of catering to the needs of the rising generation. 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, Francesco Lombardo interviews Ana Maria Guerrero Carvajal, a sixth-generation leader of the Carvajal family business in Colombia. They discuss the importance of family values in sustaining a business across generations, the role of innovation in adapting to market changes, and the initiatives taken to foster entrepreneurship within the family. Ana Maria emphasizes the significance of living the values they preach, showcasing how the family actively engages in social responsibility and community development. The conversation concludes with advice for future generations on maintaining integrity and commitment to social prosperity. 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