Episode 27: Faith, Family, and Ice Cream: The Legacy of Leatherby's Family Creamery

A Seat at the Table

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Join your host, Natalie Mariani-Kling, for an inspiring journey as she recounts the remarkable transformation of Dave Leatherby Sr. and his wife Sally, who transitioned from a small farming town in Iowa to a life of profound faith and generosity on the West Coast. She'll explore how Dave Sr.'s career with Safeway, and his mentorship under Bert Bride, led to a life-altering experience through the reading of Catholic saints' lives and his eventual baptism into Catholicism. This newfound faith not only redefined their personal lives but also reshaped their family dynamics and charitable endeavors. As the eldest of ten children, Dave Leatherby Jr. shares his unique perspective on how his parents' commitment to their faith influenced their family and community, despite facing challenges and anti-Catholic sentiment in their Midwest roots.
In the conversation, Natalie delves into the establishment of Leatherby's Family Creamery, a family business built on the solid foundation of faith and values. Dave Sr.'s unwavering commitment to his Catholic faith permeated every aspect of their lives, from never missing daily Mass to integrating these values into their business. Listen in as they explore how this faith-driven optimism and joy laid the groundwork for a successful and joyful family enterprise, creating a legacy that continues to inspire and connect people through shared experiences and service.
The journey wasn't without its trials, however. You'll hear stories of overcoming financial struggles, skepticism from banks, and the pivotal moments of support from unexpected places, such as the generous loan from Mr. Ratterman and the transformative feature by the Sacramento Bee. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, the importance of community, perseverance, and divine providence in building and sustaining Leatherby's Family Creamery is clear. This episode is a testament to the power of faith, family, and the enduring impact of generosity and kindness in both personal and business life.
To learn more about Leatherby's Family Creamery visit: https://leatherbys.net/
To learn more about the Capital Region Family Business Center visit:https://capfamilybus.org/
To learn more about our sponsor, River City Bank, visit: https://rivercitybank.com/
Episode Highlights
(01:56 - 03:19) Life-Changing Encounter With Catholic Faith
(12:13 - 13:18) Impact of Positive Spirit and Joy
(15:57 - 17:12) From Salesman to Ice Cream Entrepreneur
(20:14 - 21:05) Legacy of Longstanding Ice Cream Parlor
(22:58 - 24:40) Ice Cream Parlor Business Development
(33:05 - 34:20) Leatherby Family Creamy Business Success
(41:36 - 42:52) Family's Contribution to Business Franchise
(47:27 - 48:55) Family Business Struggles and Resilience
(51:51 - 53:05) Importance of Family Business Communication
(01:04:44 - 01:05:50) Act of Kindness in Community
Chapter Summaries
(00:00) Family Embraces Faith and Generosity
Dave Sr. and Sally's transformative journey to Catholicism reshapes their family dynamics and charitable endeavors.
(09:28) Family Business Built on Faith
My father's unwavering Catholic faith shaped our family and business, inspiring a legacy of joy, service, and connection.
(18:21) Creating a Family Ice Cream Legacy
Successful retail business journey from microwaves to ice cream, with mentorship from Foremost Dairy.
(25:05) Family Ice Cream Business Overcomes Adversity
Family support, faith, and unexpected kindness helped us overcome financial struggles and open a successful ice cream parlor.
(35:04) Family Business Franchising Lessons Learned