The Welsh Wire: Managing Business Growth and Family Dynamics ft. Michelle Timmerman of Direct Supply Inc.

Many family-owned businesses struggle with managing growth and family dynamics. To get some insights into how to successfully navigate that process, Sheri Welsh talks this week on the Welsh Wire with Michelle Timmerman, Vice President and General Manager of Grand Rapids-based Direct Supply Inc. This episode is sponsored by the Family Business Alliance.

Timmerman’s firm distributes products for both residential and commercial construction including products that are used to finish spaces and to build countertops and cabinetry.

She tells Sheri about the importance of flexibility, support, succession planning, and open communication – but also the need for adaptation, technology adoption, peer support to drive change and growth, and seeking outside assistance to stay focused on the bigger picture.

“As we grew, our problems grew and the challenges got bigger and they got harder and harder to talk about,” Timmerman said. “Really staying focused and unified together on our mission, which was doing what was best for the company and doing what was best for the family, was a challenge but staying focused helps in all of those conversations and implementations, and trying to figure out where we need to go.”

Timmerman adds that women business owners need to emphasize the importance of prioritizing personal well-being, recognizing that it can be challenging to balance family and work responsibilities.

Learn more as Timmerman talks with Sheri Welsh on this week’s Welsh Wire podcast, sponsored by the Family Business Alliance. Subscribe to the Welsh Wire on iTunes for additional informative, entertaining interviews with west Michigan business leaders.