russell-phillips-the-rawls-group-family-business-succession-plannerRussell Phillips

Associate

Succession Advisor

russphillips@rawlsgroup.com

407.578.4455

Orlando, FL

Articles by Russ

A member of The Rawls Group since 1995, Russ’ primary focus is working with business owners, key managers and family members on the varying relational issues that impact the business legacy and their pivotal relationships. In addition to his work with The Rawls Group, Russ has been privately practicing counseling since 1988 and currently supervises counselors in a masters training program at Reformed Theological Seminary. Russ holds a master’s degree in counseling from the University of West Florida and an MBA from the University of Phoenix.

All Articles

Communication Overhaul

As a therapist, my most frequent request is to “Improve Communication.” The family will express they, “don’t communicate well,” however, what I find is that they do communicate well; they just don’t use appropriate communication techniques. The following are common scenarios: - I think you are mad at me, so I withdraw and quit talking to you, the message is clear- I am going to avoid you. - I am angry with you and tell other coworkers and you find out; you confront me in anger or retaliate by saying things to others about me, the communication is clear- I [...]

How Do You Fill The Room?

There is an unconscious quality that some call “presence,” others call “attitude,” and all of which try to explain “what is it that you fill the room with?” We all have leaders and we usually judge them by asking “what kind of leader is he or she?” and “must I respect them?” This starts very early on. For example, in the movie Kindergarten Cop, tough man Arnold Schwarzenegger gets pushed around by a bunch of kindergarteners. By high school, however; we quickly ascertain whether this teacher is one you have to respect or one that let’s you slide by. As [...]

How to Deal With Addiction in the Family Business

Addiction is an unfortunate but common issue that many families have to deal with, and families in business together are no exception. When a family member has an addiction—be it drugs, sex, gambling, or alcohol—the issue must be addressed in order to have long-term family harmony and stability. This is especially critical if the addict is the anticipated successor. Un-addressed, addiction can wreak havoc on a succession plan.  As a succession planner and family therapist, I've seen the results and consequences of addiction on families. The addict places a huge burden on the family; their erratic and irrational behavior takes [...]

Family Dynamics – The Different Child

What happens to the child who was different from the rest of the family and was ignored and neglected during childhood? This is a family dynamic that deserves attention. Children need to be noticed, comforted and nurtured to help them find their way in the world. Some children are an easy fit for their parents while other children are much harder for the parents to understand and manage.  In some unfortunate situations, parents are unavailable (reasons may include having a demanding job, battling addiction, or personal issues) to provide the child with the needs mentioned above. In these cases, the [...]

Title

What is Changing In the Areas of Estate Tax?

family-business-succession-planning

Planning Opportunities To Take Advantage of Now

family-business-succession-planning

Leadership in Uncertain Times

family-business-succession-planning
Go to Top