🍎 Episode 4: Rooted in Tradition with Matt McAdam of McDougal Orchards

In this debut episode of Chit Chat with Derek and Cat, we visit the rolling hills of Southern Maine to talk with Matt McAdam, seventh-generation owner and orchard manager of McDougal Orchards—a family farm that’s been thriving for nearly eight generations.

Matt shares the story behind his family's deep agricultural roots, what it means to run a modern-day pick-your-own orchard, and how McDougal Orchards invites families to slow down, reconnect with nature, and appreciate the beauty of small-scale farming in Springvale, Maine.

🌳 From high-quality fruit production to creating low-impact, meaningful experiences for visitors, this episode celebrates the heart and hard work of Maine’s farming heritage.

🎙️ Meet Your Hosts:

• Catherine Wygant Fossett is the Executive Director of the Institute for Family-Owned Business (IFOB), a nonprofit dedicated to supporting and empowering family businesses across Maine. With years of experience guiding multigenerational enterprises, Cat brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep passion for family business dynamics to the conversation.

• Derek Volk is the CEO of Volk Packaging Corporation, a third-generation, family-owned corrugated box manufacturer based in Biddeford, Maine. Under Derek's leadership, the company has expanded its services and maintained a strong commitment to community and employee well-being. Derek also advocates for inclusive hiring practices, inspired by his personal experiences as a parent.

Together, Cat and Derek bring heart, humor, and deep curiosity to every chat—starting with this apple-sweet kickoff to the series.

In this special kickoff episode of Chit Chat with Derek and Cat, your hosts—Catherine Wygant Fossett and Derek Volk—turn the mic on each other to share their own family business journeys, the inspiration behind the podcast, and what you can expect from future episodes.

Catherine, Executive Director of the Institute for Family-Owned Business (IFOB), and Derek, CEO of Volk Packaging Corporation, have worked with and within family businesses for decades. Now, they're teaming up to explore the stories behind Maine’s most fascinating family-run companies.

Together, they chat about:

• Why family businesses are the backbone of our economy—making up over 80% of businesses nationwide

• The unique dynamics, values, and legacy that make family-run companies so resilient

• The joys and challenges of working with loved ones

• How businesses navigate succession, growth, and generational change

• And what listeners can learn from real families building real businesses

Whether you’re in a family business, love small business stories, or just enjoy authentic conversations, this episode sets the stage for a podcast full of insight, inspiration, and a whole lot of heart.

🎙️ Real conversations. Real families. Real business.

Show notes:

Visit www.fambusiness.org

https://volkboxes.com

On this enlightening episode of Chit Chat with Derek & Cat, we sit down with Dr. John Austin—Dean of the Honors College at the University of New England and a partner at Dynamic Foresight. Dr. Austin is renowned for his expertise in human performance and leadership, and he brings a wealth of knowledge on how businesses can navigate uncertainty through strategic foresight.

We delve into the distinction between forecasting and foresight, exploring how organizations can move beyond reactive change management to proactive future planning. Dr. Austin shares insights on building resilience, embracing uncertainty, and integrating foresight into organizational strategy to better prepare for what's ahead.

Whether you're leading a family business or part of a larger organization, this conversation offers valuable perspectives on anticipating change and positioning your business for long-term success.

Show notes:

Visit www.fambusiness.org

https://volkboxes.com

In this episode of Chit Chat with Derek & Cat, we sit down with Stacy Stitham, Managing Partner at Brann & Isaacson ⚖️, to explore the intersection of law and family business. As a fifth-generation Maine attorney, Stacy shares her journey from growing up in a small-town law practice to leading a nationally recognized firm.

We dive into the unique legal challenges that family-owned businesses face—from succession planning to protecting intellectual property 💼. Stacy offers practical insights on how Brann & Isaacson supports these enterprises, ensuring they thrive across generations. Her experience in civil and commercial litigation, as well as leadership roles in organizations like the Maine State Bar Association, brings valuable perspective to the evolving family business landscape.

🎙️ Tune in to hear Stacy’s inspiring story of leadership, legacy, and legal savvy—and walk away with tools to help your family business flourish.

Show notes:

Visit www.fambusiness.org

https://volkboxes.com