Safe Space with Francesco Lombardo

How do you protect a family legacy across generations? Val Montagnana-Wallace reveals how authentic storytelling and shared family narratives solve deep succession challenges and foster connection. Building a multi-generational legacy requires more than a flawless estate plan—it requires a shared identity. When family businesses transition to the next generation, facts and figures are easily forgotten, but the emotional narratives and foundational stories endure. Without a clear internal narrative, successors often struggle with their place in the family history, leading to succession friction and a lost sense of purpose. In this episode of Safe Space, host Francesco Lombardo sits down with Val Montagnana-Wallace, CEO of the family-owned creative agency Hyphen – Stories, Well Told. Val transitioned from a primary school teacher to leading a business founded by her husband and brother, giving her a uniquely human perspective on managing complex family dynamics. She explains why uncovering and sharing your family's authentic history is the ultimate tool for emotional governance and lasting unity. We explore how the stories we tell ourselves—both internally and externally—shape the future of the family enterprise. Val shares how leaning into vulnerability allows families to bridge generational divides, heal unspoken conflicts, and foster genuine connection. By crafting meaningful narratives, founders can pass down their true legacy, ensuring the next generation feels anchored in their roots rather than burdened by rigid expectations. Whether you are navigating a difficult generational transition or simply want to document your family's journey before it fades, this conversation provides an actionable roadmap. Learn how authentic storytelling transforms family business transitions from purely structural handoffs into deeply connected, purpose-driven 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

How do we prepare the next generation to handle family legacy? Scott Feld reveals how to reprogram default beliefs and build inner confidence in future family business stewards. Building a lasting multi-generational legacy isn't just about financial inheritance or structural governance—it starts with the emotional health of the children who will one day carry it. Without genuine self-worth and resilience, even the most pristine estate plan can collapse under the weight of self-doubt, fear of failure, and the intense anxiety of stepping into big shoes. In this episode of Safe Space, host Francesco Lombardo sits down with youth mindset expert, award-winning author, and founder of The Power-UP Experiences, Scott Feld. Drawing from over 30 years of coaching kids, teachers, and young entrepreneurs, Scott reveals how family business owners can help the next generation unlock their inner superpowers before they ever step into the boardroom. We tackle the core root of succession anxiety: default beliefs. Scott explains how the subconscious programming formed in early childhood shapes how future leaders handle high-pressure responsibility, personal failure, and internal pressure. Through practical visualization tools, positive self-talk, and purpose-driven parenting, Scott demonstrates how to protect young successors from imposter syndrome and help them build lasting confidence from the inside out. Whether you are a founder preparing your children for future leadership or a parent wanting to cultivate emotional governance in your family system, this conversation delivers human-centered tools to align personal growth with generational continuity. Learn how shifting focus from external performance to internal empowerment transforms anxious heirs into grounded, self-aware stewards capable of thriving on their own terms. 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

Protect your generational wealth by building a stronger foundation. Author Buddy Thomas shares his 50-year roadmap for holistic planning and active family estate planning that unites your legacy. Leaving an inheritance is easy. Passing on a sustainable, thriving legacy is incredibly difficult. Most wealthy and aspirational families spend millions on legal structures and tax loopholes, yet completely neglect the emotional and relational capital required to keep that wealth from dissolving across generations. In this episode of Safe Space, we are joined by veteran wealth strategist and author of Love Wisdom Money, Buddy Thomas. With over five decades of hands-on experience working directly with trustors, trustees, and beneficiaries, Buddy has witnessed firsthand why traditional financial planning fails. He reveals why placing love and wisdom ahead of the actual currency is the only way to meet both your legal and moral responsibilities as a family fiduciary. In this conversation, we solve for: The Currency Disconnect: Why passing down money without passing down the family values that gave it meaning creates a destructive legacy. The Power of Holistic Planning: How to engage in deep financial and estate planning that actively protects your family's relational health. Continuous Family Engagement: Practical frameworks to keep the next generation involved in ongoing conversations about wealth, fostering true alignment and cohesion. If you are a "Family Champion" or a leader managing a family office, Buddy's grounded, story-driven guidance provides a blueprint for true succession planning. It's time to stop looking at your legacy as a math problem and start building a generative ecosystem that safeguards your family's true wealth for decades to come. 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

Stop letting self-criticism ruin your family business dynamics. Leadership coach Massimo Backus explains how self-compassion and emotional intelligence create a more resilient succession plan. Why do so many family business leaders feel like they have to choose between being a "strong boss" and a "loving family member"? Often, the pressure to maintain a multi-generational legacy leads to a culture of overcontrol and self-pressure that actually stifles growth. In this episode of Safe Space, we sit down with leadership strategist and author of Human First, Leader Second, Massimo Backus. With a deep background in organizational psychology, Massimo helps us dismantle the internal narratives and inherited behaviors that often plague family enterprises. We move past the technical side of governance to look at the "inner work" required to sustain a healthy family office. In this conversation, we solve for: The "Overcontrol" Trap: Why founders struggle to delegate and how to shift from controlling the work to developing the people. Emotional Resilience: Using mindfulness and self-awareness to navigate high-stakes family dynamics without burning out. Building a Flourishing Culture: How replacing self-criticism with self-trust allows the next generation to step into their own leadership with confidence. Whether you are navigating a difficult succession or simply trying to improve family relationships within the business, Massimo's story-driven approach offers a practical roadmap. It's time to stop doing the work for your people and start leading with the clarity and humanity that your legacy deserves. 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

Stop letting procrastination stall your family business succession. Dr. Moira Somers explains the neuroscience of avoidance and how to master emotional regulation for better family governance. Why do the smartest families avoid the most important conversations? Whether it's succession planning, wealth transition, or conflict resolution, the "fault lines" in a family business usually aren't financial—they're neurological. In this episode of Safe Space, we sit down with neuropsychologist and family wealth consultant Dr. Moira Somers. As the author of Advice that Sticks, Moira has spent her career studying why high-net-worth families often know what to do, yet fail to do it. We dive deep into the psychology of procrastination and avoidance, moving past the "just do it" advice to understand the fear and anxiety that keep families stuck. We solve three core problems in this conversation: The Avoidance Trap: Why your family "forgets" to talk about the future and how to break the cycle of procrastination. Facilitating the Hard Stuff: A pragmatic roadmap for hosting difficult family conversations without ending in emotional shutdowns. The Trust Factor: How emotional regulation and behavioral economics can be used to build a stronger foundation for family enterprise governance. If you are a "Family Champion" or a leader in a family office struggling with a stalled transition, Moira's grounded approach offers a way to bring about positive change. It's time to move from "misconduct" and "fault lines" to a future built on trust and strategic clarity. 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

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, award-winning entrepreneur and second-generation CEO of South Post Oak Recycling Center, shares her journey from leading teams at Fortune 100 companies — including Target, Northrop Grumman, and Disney — to stepping into her family business. Brandi reflects on her decision to pursue an MBA while working full-time at Disney, and how education and real-world experience gave her the tools to navigate the complexities of joining a family enterprise. She also discusses the importance of preparation, financial literacy, and purpose-driven leadership — lessons that continue to guide her at the helm of SPORC, where she leads with a philosophy of taking care of your people and positively impacting the community. 🎧 Listen now to hear Brandi's insights on growth, courage, and redefining what leadership looks like in the next generation of family business. 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