Willow, Alaska — Robert Forto, an outdoor leadership consultant, dog musher, and technology entrepreneur, of Willow, Alaska defended his doctoral project on November 18, 2024 to earn a Doctor of Strategic Leadership from Liberty University.

While at Liberty University, Forto’s research topic was on transgenerational succession in the family firm with the emphasis on the emerging female leader. This qualitative research single case study explored the challenges faced in the family business in transitioning ownership and leadership from one generation to the next. This succession poses significant challenges, risks, and setbacks.

“This project is important on so many levels. Not only will it provide value insight to the organization that I worked with for the study, it will also guide our own family businesses as we plan for succession in the coming years,” says Forto.

Forto plans to continue as the owner of several businesses including First Paw Media and Dog Works Training Company but also plans to expand his Dreamchaser Leadership organization with the aim to help other students in gradate degree programs, and other small businesses that are looking for guidance.

“I have no plans to slow down. This degree program was the product of constant enrollment in school for more than a decade. I do not know what I will do with all of the time on my hands. I do know that I will use my skills to take our family of businesses to the next level,” exclaims Forto.

About Robert Forto

Robert Forto lives in the wilds of Alaska with a pack of sled dogs. He is also a podcaster, and the founder of a half dozen companies including Peak Experience a growth strategy company where he helps individuals and companies map what’s next. His motto: REACH your PEAK.

Forto is an accomplished speaker and author, of A Musher’s Dream (Arctic House Publishing), In 2009 he launched Dog Works Radio and currently coaches independent podcasters on how to develop the right mindset to take their podcast to the next level. Today you will find Robert at RobertForto.com where he writes about his trials and tribulations completing a doctorate degree when most people in life are buying fancy sports cars.

Click here to connect further with Forto

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Media Contact for Robert Forto and First Paw Media:

Michele Forto

Firstpawmedia ( @) gmail.com