Starting a business often feels like raising a child—filled with sleepless nights, emotional investment, and a deep sense of identity. But when it’s time for founders to step back, the emotional attachment can make succession challenging. In a recent Find Grow Keep podcast episode, David Werdiger, family enterprise advisor and author, discussed the emotional and strategic journey of letting go.
David likens the business-founder bond to parenting, saying, “It’s you.” But this connection can hinder growth. A blunt client question—“What happens if you get hit by a bus?”—sparked his realization: a business reliant on one person isn’t a real asset. This led David to step out of daily operations, form an advisory board, and reframe his role—from CEO to Chairman, then Chief Evangelist—helping empower his team and ensure sustainability.
Many founders struggle with succession not from lack of knowledge, but emotional resistance. They want to hire a CEO, yet can’t stop intervening. The solution lies in clear structures, accountability, and most importantly, mindset shifts.
Communication, David says, is the foundation. Open, curious conversations build resilience and prevent conflict, especially in family-run ventures. Succession should be viewed not as an event but a process—starting with communication, shared values, and governance structures.
Even if you’re not exiting soon, preparing now strengthens your business. Letting go doesn’t mean losing control—it means setting your business free to grow beyond you.
Catch the full experience — watch the video, listen to the podcast, or read the article.
Podcast (Spotify ,Apple Podcast)
Originally posted at amplifyhr.com.au and Linkedin.
