It’s a Family Affair

Don’t get to spend enough time with your kids? Work with them. That’s what these dads do. Here, they share the secrets of doing so—with great success.

TOM ANGELO & KASSIDY ANGELO
Founder and Director, Gioia Hospitality Group

“When the opportunity presented itself to open Daniel’s in Fort Lauderdale, we happened to be at our favorite spot together, in the region of Puglia, where hospitality reigns supreme,” Tom recalls. “I presented the opportunity to Kassidy to create a brand and bring a world-class dining experience to Fort Lauderdale, the town where she grew up. She was working at J.P. Morgan at the time in the Private Bank, and after she gave it some thought, decided to see if we could make it work together.”

And make it work, they have. Daniel’s was just recognized as a Michelin-recommended restaurant and has had customers raving since it opened its doors. Behind the scenes, the two have mastered the art of working in harmony. “Kassidy keeps me on a very short leash!” Tom jokes, then adds, “In all seriousness, it is sometimes not easy, but we try to set boundaries, as there are lots of stresses incumbent to running the business.”

“I admire my dad’s grit and the unwavering perseverance he’s shown throughout his life,” Kassidy says. “It’s both moving and motivating to witness the dedication and love he invests in our business, along with the countless sacrifices he’s made for our family.”

JULIO CABRERA & ANDY CABRERA
Maestro Cantinero, co-owner and founder, and Head Cantinero, Café La Trova

Julio and Andy’s teamwork started way back—”when I was just about 4 years old,” Andy says. “My father would teach me flair and I’d make appearances at his competitions. Later, I decided to dedicate myself to this profession, and we’ve been working together ever since the opening of Café La Trova.”

Today, Andy is his father’s “right hand man—in the morning, I help him with any emails or new projects, and in the evening, I run the bar so he can focus on being a host to the guests.”

Together, they have enjoyed stunning success—Café La Trova was ranked 13th on the list of The World’s 50 Best Bars List in 2024, the only Florida bar to earn a spot that year—and overcome troubled times. “The 2020 COVID Pandemic was one of the toughest challenges we’ve ever faced,” Andy says. “We were struck with the fear of the possibility of never opening again.” But they pivoted, starting a Happy Hour video series on Instagram where they would post a classic cocktail every day until they were able to open Café La Trova’s doors again. 

“Working with family is tough — it is not for everybody,” Andy notes. “You will get tested, you will get demoralized, but you cannot give up. Once you understand that it’s all give and take and you learn to harmoniously work together, you will create a beautiful bond.”

BILL FEINBERG & KARA FEINBERG
President and Director of Marketing, Allied Kitchen & Bath

“I remember going to work with my dad on ‘take your child to work’ days and I was always so excited to spend the day with him and see what he did,” Kara Feinberg Cohen fondly recalls. “I can say that what inspired me to work with my dad as I got older was that exact reason: a chance to spend every day together. I have had other jobs throughout the years and since I returned to Allied after taking some time off to have my kids, I feel that, professionally, I have learned the most from him.”

Their typical workday starts with a meeting to review the day’s priorities and job details. “We spend a lot of time coaching our team together and thinking about how we can support and strengthen our employees,” Kara says. “My dad’s usually juggling a bit of everything, while I focus more on marketing. We collaborate often on ads, social media content, and ideas for the website—it’s a creative rhythm we’ve developed together.”

But differences will come up. “We’re both passionate and have strong ideas,” Kara says. “But my dad gives me a lot of freedom to explore my own path, which has been empowering andsparked a lot of creativity. At the same time, I never take for granted the wisdom he brings. Itrust his perspective and genuinely value his feedback. It’s a balance, but one built on mutual respect.”

CRAIG ZINN & ZACHARY ZINN
President & CEO and Corporate Officer, Craig Zinn Automotive Group

“I grew up very involved in the industry—my father was Florida’s first Toyota dealer,” says Craig Zinn, founder of Craig Zinn Automotive Group. “In 1981, I took that foundation and started what is now our family business.” His son, Zachary, followed suit early on. “I started in the parts department at Acura of Pembroke Pines when I was in middle school,” Zachary recalls. “I always looked up to my dad and admired how much he devoted to the business and the community.”

From college studies in Automotive Marketing and Finance to an internship at Spyker in the Netherlands, Zachary was deliberate in his preparation. “It’s been important to me to understand every aspect of the business before stepping into leadership,” he says.

Their father-son dynamic is rooted in mutual respect. “In the office, we are colleagues who happen to be family,” says Craig. “That clarity allows us to make decisions based on what’s best for the company.” Zachary adds, “We communicate often and keep our focus on shared goals.”

Craig’s formula for success starts by defining each other’s roles. “Let your kids earn their place and allow them the space to lead.” Zach adds, “Be intentional about the culture you want to build. For us, giving back is part of that. Through Subaru’s Share the Love program, we’ve donated more than $1.6 million to partners like Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, including funding an Animal-Assisted Therapy endowment. We also support the Humane Society of Broward County and host adoption events year-round. When your business reflects your values, success becomes about more than just numbers.

TOM MCCAWLEY & MARK MCCAWLEY
Periodontists, McCawley Center for Laser Periodontics

“Mark worked in the office from a very early age and in the second grade he told his teacher that he wanted to be a periodontist like his dad,” Tom McCauley proudly replies when asked how the father-son duo ended up in business together at McCauley Dental. 

Blood ties them together, but a shared commitment to their patients’ dental health brings a synergy to their professional partnership. Tom, who has practiced in Fort Lauderdale for over 50 years, brings focus and commitment, which, combined with Mark’s conscientiousness and honesty for a formula that works.

When it comes to challenges, they know to expect them, so they overcome those by taking them in stride. Respecting each other’s point of view and talking out their differences also helps keep things working smoothly. When asked what he would advise to those thinking of working alongside family members, Mark says, “Make sure you get along before you start working together professionally and be sure to celebrate each other’s strengths and overlook their weaknesses.”

RAY CHEHATA AND SONS DAVID & ANDREW CHEHATA

Tri-County Sweeping Services

“Our father’s always been an entrepreneur,” says David Chehata of his father, Ray, owner of Tri-County Services, which has been in business for more than 30 years. “Every business he had, he tried to incorporate us as best as he could so we could learn from a young age.” That early exposure shaped their path, but everything changed in 2020. “Ray was placed in a coma due to COVID and was on the brink of death,” Andrew recalls. “Once he woke up, it lit a spark in him. He wanted to reach his goal of teaching his kids business.”

In 2021, that vision became reality with the family’s acquisition of Tri-County. “He had the opportunity to reunite his boys and teach them everything from his past experiences,” says David.

Balancing personal and professional lives comes naturally to the trio. “We were always great at separating the two,” Andrew explains. “From a disagreement in a meeting to ‘see you later for dinner.’”

Their personalities complement each other. “Ray is the fighter,” says David. “David’s the voice of reason,” adds Ray. “And Andrew sees issues at face value.”

Their proudest moment? “Owning our building,” Andrew says. “Ray navigated the deal and guided us every step of the way.”

Ray’s rule remains clear: “Business is business and personal is personal. Never let one destroy the other.”

 

You May Also Like
Marc Falsetto Bets on a New Era of Luxury on Las Olas

As founder and CEO of Falsetto Hospitality, he has a restaurant portfolio that includes Tacocraft, Pizza Craft, and Apothecary 330. In addition, Falsetto is also a partner in the iconic Runway 84. Now, the restaurateur is preparing to open Caviar Club on Las Olas Boulevard this fall. For Falsetto, the ambitious restaurant and nightlife concept represents more than another opening. It is a bet

Read More
A man in a suit leans against a bar, holding a glass of wine in a dimly lit, luxury restaurant on Las Olas, with framed photos on the wall and warm ambient lighting, evoking the sophisticated atmosphere inspired by Marc Falsetto. Lifestyle
Pilates Powerhouse

When Elena Duni hears the phrase “Pilates princess,” she winces.  The founder of SQLPT, a boutique mat-based Pilates studio with locations in Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton and Brickell, wants to dismantle the stereotype that Pilates is simply a fashionable workout for influencers in matching sets.  “Pilates is for everybody,” Duni says. “But it’s not for every mindset.”  For

Read More
A woman in a white suit and gold sandals sits against a black-and-white geometric patterned wall, exuding confidence with her Pilates-inspired poise. She wears large sunglasses and layered gold jewelry, embodying the strength and elegance of the Pilates Powerhouse. Lifestyle
Lifestyle Media Group Announces Ownership Transition to Ray Chehata, Chairman of Chehata Family Holdings

Founder Gary Press to Continue as Chairman of the Board, Ensuring Continuity and Strategic Leadership Lifestyle Media Group (LMG), the parent company of an award-winning portfolio of print, digital, and live-event brands that includes Lifestyle, South Florida Business & Wealth, LUXE, and CHARITABLE magazines, is announcing the transition of ownership from founder Gary Press to

Read More
The image shows the words "MEDIA GROUP lifestyle" in a bold, elegant black font on a light background, representing Lifestyle Media Group, part of Chehata Family Holdings led by Ray Chehata. Lifestyle
Community, Dogs, and Rock & Roll

For Susan Rennisen, vice president of community affairs and special events at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood, a life well lived includes having dogs at her side.   Rennisen first fell in love with poodles more than 40 years ago after moving to Las Vegas to further her career. Far from her home on the East

Read More
A woman in a white dress sits on a black piano, smiling with Rock & Roll flair. Two poodles in bow ties sit in front of her. The room is modern, with blue accents, plants, and framed photos on a side table. Lifestyle
Other Posts
Tower Club Fort Lauderdale Presents “Midnight in the Sanctuary” Benefiting PAWS

Tower Club Fort Lauderdale presents Midnight in the Sanctuary: A PAWSh Society Affair on Friday, September 25, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. Set 28 stories above downtown Fort Lauderdale, the immersive evening will bring together South Florida’s business, civic, and philanthropic communities in support of PAWS—Pets Are Worth Saving, an Auxiliary of the Humane Society of

Read More
A jungle scene at night with an ancient stone temple, surrounded by lush plants, a dog and a cat. Text reads: “Midnight in the Sanctuary” alongside the PAWS and Tower Club Fort Lauderdale logos. Lifestyle
History Fort Lauderdale Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month

Viva Fort Lauderdale Showcases South Florida Artists History Fort Lauderdale will celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with the fifth anniversary of “Viva Fort Lauderdale: Celebrating Hispanic Art & Culture,” a free exhibition showcasing the work of South Florida artists. The exhibit runs Sept. 17 through Oct. 25 at the New River Inn, 231 SW Second Ave.,

Read More
A woman in a colorful dress poses, smiling, next to a vibrant mural of Frida Kahlo with parrots on her shoulders in Fort Lauderdale. Both wear bold patterns and jewelry, celebrating the artistry and spirit of Hispanic Heritage Month. The background features bright, intricate designs that pay homage to history and cultural richness. Lifestyle
Vote For Your Favorite American Humane Society Hero Dog

Five Florida dogs are among 25 semifinalists competing for national recognition in the American Humane Society’s 16th annual Hero Dog Awards. The nationwide competition recognizes dogs whose service, courage and companionship have made an extraordinary impact. This year’s semifinalists compete in five categories: law enforcement and first-responder dogs, service and guide/hearing dogs, therapy dogs, military

Read More
A golden Labrador lies on the floor with a plush snowman toy, a gift box, and a card featuring a dog illustration beside it—evoking the spirit of an American Humane Society Hero Dog. A potted plant is in the background. Lifestyle
At 40,000 Feet, Wellness Is on the Menu

  For nearly three decades, Mike Linder has watched food trends come and go.   The veteran restaurateur and CEO of Silver Lining Inflight Catering has prepared thousands of meals for passengers aboard private jets. Today, he says, one trend stands above the rest: people are eating more mindfully than ever before.  “The younger generation has become much

Read More
A croissant sandwich with bacon, egg, and sprouts, served with sliced avocado, a small bowl of sauce, and a skillet of roasted sweet potatoes and vegetables on a white plate—a delightful option inspired by airline wellness trends to elevate your in-flight dining experience. Lifestyle