INcorporate: A podcast for business owners

Succession planning is one of the most critical—and often most neglected—parts of running a business. In this episode of INcorporate, hosts Susan Steffan and Jordan Lema explore the real-world challenges and strategies behind leadership transition in family businesses.

Joining Susan and Jordan in the studio are two guests with firsthand experience: Kathleen Chiavetta, Core '20, COO of Chiavetta's Catering, a third-generation owner navigating the legacy of her family business, and Shawn Buffum, Core '24, CEO of Orville's Home Appliances, a non-family CEO who stepped in to lead through a major transition.

Together, they unpack what succession looks like in practice. From navigating expectations and preserving culture, to building a formal plan. If you're a business owner thinking about the future, this episode is packed with candid insights, actionable advice, and stories you don’t want to miss.

Topics include:

• What they wish they knew earlier in the process
• How to prepare for leadership transitions
• Balancing tradition with innovation
• The role of communication and advisors

Don’t leave your legacy to chance—tune in and learn how to pass the torch with confidence.