Family Ethics, Culture & Discipline. Respect for Elders | Making Sense of Family Business

Cause #25

In this episode, I explore how morals, ethics, culture, discipline, and respect for elders intersect to either strengthen or destabilise family businesses. I explain the differences between personal morals and shared ethical standards, how culture reflects what families actually do rather than what they claim to value, and why misalignment across generations often fuels conflict- especially during succession. I also discuss how changing roles of elders, lack of clear rules, and weak governance can erode trust and respect, and why open communication, explicit guidelines, and professional family governance are essential to managing conflict early and keeping both the family and the business healthy.