Navigating the Fog of Change™: How a Small Company Fights Its Dragons

In this episode of Focus on Growth, I speak with Tom and Monica Rogan, founders of Goodnow Farms Chocolate, about the realities of leading a small business through today’s fog of change — where uncertainty, volatility, and disruption test every assumption.

From Hollywood and real estate to handcrafting award-winning chocolate on their Massachusetts farm, the Rogans share how their “brand mindset” drives quality, transparency, and purpose — from bean to bar. Their story is one of resilience and relationships: direct ties with cacao farmers, constant adaptation to climate and supply shocks, and a deep commitment to craft and community.

We explore how a small company can face “dragons” like climate change, tariffs, and economic instability — not with scale or capital, but with clarity of purpose, flexibility, and courage. Their journey offers lessons for every leader navigating uncertainty:

Build a brand from the inside out.

Invest in trusted relationships that endure disruption.

Stay flexible — move forward in small, deliberate steps.

Keep the mission alive, even when the path ahead is unclear.

As Monica says, “We’re food, not candy.” And that distinction — of meaning, integrity, and intent — is what defines lasting brands in the fog of change.To learn more about Goodnow Farms Chocolate and to try some for yourself, visit: https://goodnowfarms.comNavigating The Fog of Change™ is presented by Sage Partners. This podcast is hosted by Tom Doorley and edited and produced by Rei Haycraft.