Family Business/Business Family Episode 39: Leading Through Loss | Father-Son Transitions | A Legacy Built One Client at a Time
Mar 17, 2026
Danni Dikes, daughter helping run Weston Jewelers who preserves personal customer ties while scaling. Mitchell Kaneff, third-generation CEO of RK, who steered global packaging growth through a tough succession. They discuss maintaining a family feel during expansion, leading through sudden loss, long succession struggles, governance and mentoring the next generation.
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Scale Without Losing The Family Feel
- Ed and Danni explained growth doesn't have to erase a small-business feel because staff treated like family will treat clients like family.
- They keep owners present in stores so customers feel personal continuity across locations and generations.
Werner Bus Shifted From Casino Runs To Charter Work
- Heath described Werner Bus's origin in 1929 and his father's 1979 acquisition that turned into a decades-long family ownership.
- He explained the business shift from Atlantic City casino runs to an exclusive charter focus after his father's passing.
Coming Back To Run The Family Bus Business
- Heath recounted returning from a hospitality career to help his father in 2005 after being asked to try running the bus company.
- He stayed eight years before his father died, then leaned on loyal employees to steady the company through transition.