Last month, Stride partnered with the Albany Black Chamber of Commerce & Social Club for an evening that reminded us why this community exists.
Three family business leaders — each navigating the intersection of family, business, and identity in their own way — sat down for an honest conversation that the room won’t forget quickly.
What our panelists shared
Dawn Abbuhl, who has built Repeat Business Systems alongside her husband John through 17 acquisitions, opened up about something that rarely gets discussed: she wants her son Bryant to call her “Mom” in the business — not by her first name. It’s a small thing that carries enormous weight. Honoring the family inside the business isn’t a soft concern. It’s leadership.
Reina Ciccarone, founder of 3tone Digital, spoke candidly about building a business with her husband Tony Ciccarone while showing up as a mother and wife at the same time. Her take: there’s no single right answer and no formula. You show up, do your best, and carry kindness with you throughout the process.
Jessica Johnson-Cope brought a message that cut to the heart of what Stride is for — that leading a family business doesn’t mean leading alone. Surrounding yourself with others who truly understand the weight of it changes everything. This year, Johnson Security Bureau celebrates 63 years in business. That legacy speaks for itself.
The conversation was guided with skill and warmth by Erica Choi of KeyBank, who also shared her own story about holding boundaries with clients to protect her team’s dignity — a moment that resonated deeply with everyone in the room.
Thank you
This evening came together because of people who showed up. Thank you to Deshanna Wiggins for organizing a wonderful event and for the tour of the Albany Black Chamber. Thank you to Allison Beyer for helping bring this incredible group of families together. And thank you to Reina and Tony at 3tone Digital for capturing the spirit of the evening on video — check out Reina’s LinkedIn for the highlights.
Our sponsors — KeyBank, Hodgson Russ, JPMorgan Chase, and the Albany Black Chamber of Commerce — made this possible. We’re grateful for their continued investment in this community.
This was just the beginning of what Stride has planned for 2026.
Thank you!!
