In Episode 20 of the Finish Big Podcast, host Mark Dorman welcomes Laura Bonnet, Founding Director of the Center for Family Business at the Weatherhead School of Management at Case Western Reserve University. Established in 2023, the Center for Family Business was created to connect and equip multi-generational family enterprises to build stronger legacies. Laura brings a powerful blend of strategy, corporate leadership, and advisory experience to the role — having held executive positions at American Greetings and advisory roles at McKinsey & Company, as well as experience with General Motors and Disney. In this episode, Mark and Laura explore the unique dynamics of family enterprises, the challenges of multi-generational transition, governance, strategy, and the importance of intentional legacy building. This is a must-listen for family business owners navigating succession, leadership development, and long-term continuity. Mark and Laura Discuss: The Birth of the Center for Family Business – Why Case Western launched it in 2023. Family Business Complexity – Why governance and relationships matter as much as performance. Multi-Generational Transition – Preparing next-gen leaders early. Strategic Discipline – Lessons from McKinsey applied to family enterprises. Corporate vs Family Culture – Key differences in decision-making. Legacy Thinking – Moving from wealth creation to legacy stewardship. Emotional Capital – The unseen driver of family business success. Board Structures & Governance Models – Professionalising the family enterprise. Education & Community – The role of universities in supporting family firms. Balancing Growth & Harmony – Keeping business and family aligned. Connect with Mark Dorman: Succession Plus US LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 [email protected] About the Guest: Laura Bonnet is the Founding Director of the Center for Family Business at the Weatherhead School of Management at Case Western Reserve University. Prior to launching the Center in 2023, she served in executive leadership roles at American Greetings and worked at McKinsey & Company advising clients across industries. Her career also includes experience with General Motors and the Walt Disney Company. Laura combines strategic expertise with a deep understanding of multi-generational enterprise to help family businesses build governance, leadership continuity, and sustainable legacies.