Commentary

A Commentary provides thoughtful and insightful opinions or perspectives on events, policies or situations of interest to business owners, startups, educators, investors and policymakers. These should be short, readable, timely, interesting pieces that address current topics of interest, discussion or dispute.

Length: <1,000 words

Reviewed by Senior Editors


Announcing Our 2024-25 Schulze Awards Winners

Each year, the Schulze Publication Awards celebrate the authors of the most impactful articles published on FamilyBusiness.org and EIX, our sister publication. These awards recognize exceptional Read More...

Category: Commentary

Authors: Kimberly Eddleston and Mat Hughes

Congratulations to our 2024-25 Schulze Awards Winners!

Each year, the Schulze Publication Awards celebrate the authors of the most impactful articles published on EIX and FamilyBusiness.org. These awards recognize exceptional thought leadership, clarity Read More...

Category: Commentary

Author: David Townsend

Rom-Coms Can Complicate Your Succession Planning

Unrealistic depictions of the sacrifices and tradeoffs of family business leadership -- streamed repeatedly -- can color younger people’s attitudes towards taking the helm. Popular TV dramas like Read More...

Category: Commentary

Author: Sara E. Miller

Help Improve EIX: Take Our Audience Discovery Survey and Shape Future Content

We are launching a short Audience Discovery Survey to learn what you value most, including the formats you prefer, the topics you rely on, and how EIX can support your goals more effectively. Every Read More...

Category: Commentary

Author: Jennifer Gessner

Exiled Belarus Founders Warn of Global Crackdown on Innovators

The critical thinking, international connectivity, and system-building mindset that make entrepreneurs so valuable can also make them targets of authoritarian regimes. In April 2021, masked men Read More...

Category: Commentary

Authors: Anastasiya Khamiankova and Tania Marinich

What Business Owners Can Learn From World War II Strategic Bombing

Like military strategists, business owners face decisions that must balance vision and resources, courage and caution, innovation and discipline. What can small business owners, family firms, and Read More...

Category: Commentary

Author: Joseph Giglio

Addressing Substance Use Disorders in a Family Enterprise

When a family member struggles with addiction, the consequences can ripple throughout the firm and increase its risks. Scott, a seasoned executive in a multigenerational family business, approached Read More...

Category: Commentary

Author: Diana Clark

Remembering and Learning from FedEx Founder Fred Smith

Smith died June 21, but the 11 management practices he encouraged at FedEx provide timeless wisdom for entrepreneurs and their ventures. EDITOR’S NOTE: FedEx Founder and Executive Chairman Read More...

Category: Commentary

Author: James C Wetherbe

5 Practical Tips for Making Business Decisions With Family Members

Running a family business doesn’t mean always seeing eye to eye, but you can still overcome challenges, resolve conflicts, and evolve as a team. At 13, I unknowingly took part in my first serious Read More...

Category: Commentary

Author: Rostyslav Vovk

The Role of the Champion: Practical Guidance for Venture Managers

At its core, a champion is the individual within the organization who takes personal responsibility for making the alliance succeed. For venture managers, understanding the champion’s role and how Read More...

Category: Commentary

Author: David Deeds