It Runs In The Family
Hello! We're Liz & Leila Willingham and welcome to "It Runs In The Family". We're the mother and daughter duo working within the public relations and communications agency, Liz Lean PR. Running a business is hard - really hard. Every business has its challenges and it's own ups and downs - but in a family business, this is often exaggerated by the willingness to speak your mind. But it also has some huge advantages that the corporate cultures just can't compete with. In this podcast, featuring a different family business guest in each episode, we're going to be digging into the stories, values and traditions of other family and multi-generational businesses. We'll explore their history, learnings and how they've developed through the generations and the unique advantages they've had over their competitors. We discover where human relationship migrates into business; the ups, downs, twists, turns and landmark moments that seal the fate of these fascinating organisations. You’ll get to hear some brilliant life stories too; some to make you laugh and others that’ll warm your heart. Many of our clients are family businesses who we've worked very closely with over a number of years - we've heard brilliant stories that reveal true values and fun operating as a family business. We want you to feel inspired by stories of others, find their honesty relatable and reach out to us with your own experiences. If you have any questions for future guests, have a story of your own or have any feedback please do feel free to get in touch on our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itrunsinthefamilypodcast/
It Runs In The Family
Gaelic Roots & Grand Ambitions: Inside the Sonas Hotel Collection with Anne Gracie Gunn and Jennifer Gracie #120
The Sonas Hotel Collection’s story spans three generations, and a blend of spontaneity, resilience, and family values have transformed a single guesthouse into a beloved group of hotels.
From the very first purchase with Anne’s late husband Ken, to the latest ambitious renovations, the Gracie family’s journey is filled with unexpected turns, laughter, and a deep sense of purpose.
Anne and Jennifer are this week’s very special guests, as they open up about the joys and challenges of working side by side as mother and daughter, and how their different personalities and skills have become the perfect balance for their business.
The episode delves into the emotional moments that shaped their path, and the strength they found in each other during difficult times. This behind-the-scenes look at the Sonas Hotel Collection uncovers the heart, humour, and hope that drive this extraordinary family forward.
🔑 Key Themes
- Family Legacy and Generational Involvement
- Resilience and Adaptability
- The Unique Dynamics of Family Business
- Heritage, Culture, and Sense of Place
- The Warmth and Philosophy of Hospitality
🔗 Connect with us
- Sonas Hotel Collection: https://sonascollection.com/
- Sonas Hotel Collection (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/sonas-hospitality-limited/
- Anne Gracie Gunn (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/anne-gracie-gunn-6a253624/
- Jennifer Gracie (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-gracie-626063158/
Liz Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/lizzielean/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-willingham-09273a3/
Leila Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/leilawillingham/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-willingham-821530a1/
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