Think Outside the Aisle—And Beyond Your Own Exit

70% of businesses fail to reach their second generation—learn how to build a legacy that lasts.

When the IDDBA says “Think Outside the Aisle,” they’re challenging dairy, deli, and bakery leaders to break conventional thinking.

When I say “Think Beyond Your Exit,” I’m making the same challenge: What happens when you’re no longer in the driver’s seat?

Both require the same kind of bold, uncomfortable thinking.

On Tuesday, March 24, 11 am CDT/12 noon EDT, it is my honor to collobarate with the IDDBA to present:

“Elephants in the Boardroom: A Succession Planning Kickstart for Founders & Senior Leaders”

I would love for you to attend.

IDDBA’s mission is powerful: to drive innovation, growth, & lasting success.

Notice the words? Lasting success.

Here’s what lasting success is NOT:

>>>>>70% of businesses fail to make it to their second generation of leadership.

Most founders I meet are avoiding the elephants in the boardroom—the conversations about succession.

“Thinking Outside the Aisle” Means Thinking Outside Yourself

IDDBA’s tagline, “Thinking Outside the Aisle,” isn’t just about retail strategy. It’s about challenging convention, honoring tradition while sparking innovation, and building something bigger than today’s bottom line.

Succession planning is the ultimate “outside the aisle” thinking.

It’s not about giving up control. It’s about cultivating community (one of IDDBA’s six guiding influencers) by ensuring your business continues to bless your team, your customers, and your community for generations.

It’s about empowering people (another IDDBA core value) by developing the next generation of leaders who will carry your legacy forward.

The Elephants We Need to Confront

In my 40 years as a CEO in specialty foods and through navigating multiple leadership transitions, I’ve identified seven elephants that derail founder-led companies.

On Tuesday, March 24th, we’ll confront these elephants together and begin building a plan to Finish Well with purpose and momentum.

IDDBA is committed to driving lasting success and shaping the future of the dairy, deli, and bakery industry.

But there’s no lasting success without succession planning. And you can’t shape the future if your business doesn’t survive your departure.

That’s thinking outside the aisle.

Join Me—And Share This With Your Network

If you’re a founder, senior leader, or know someone in any industry who’s built something worth preserving, this session is for you.

📅 Date: March 24, 2026 

⏰ Time: 12 PM EST 

📍 Register: CLICK HERE

Will your business become another statistic? Or will you build a legacy that continues to bless your community for generations?

Let’s think outside the aisle—together.