EO has greatly benefited me and my husband, Peter, for the last several years. It is hard to pick what has been most worthwhile— certainly the exposure to world-class speakers and the frequent opportunities to network and enjoy life with other members are at the top of the list.

But the Forum experience alone has been particularly meaningful for us both.

Peter's segue into owning his own business came on the heels of more than a decade in corporate mergers and acquisitions for Nestlé USA in southern California, USA, and with The Loewen Group in Cincinnati, OH, USA. In 1997, after founding The Malibu Group—a mergers and acquisitions consulting firm in Cincinnati—we were able to meet and connect with other Cincinnati-based entrepreneurs through EO. Peter didn't have a history with the local business community, so networking and building relationships with other EOers was imperative.

Forum has enriched Peter's personal and professional life. Sharing challenges and victories with others who understand the unique world of entrepreneurship is invaluable. The chance to present business dilemmas and opportunities with fellow Forum members has greatly broadened his problem solving and creative abilities. And serving on the EO Cincinnati chapter board has enabled Peter to learn from the experiences and leadership styles of others.

But Forum wasn't just for Peter. (Thank goodness!)

When I first learned about Spousal Forum, I admit I was skeptical. I didn't want to be part of a group whose primary purpose was mutual grousing about how many hours their spouses worked! But I was pleased to be placed in a group with other women who have a variety of careers and are as involved in the growth of their spouses' companies as I am.

I just returned from our third Spousal Forum retreat. We are continually amazed at the unity of our group despite our very different backgrounds, beliefs and interests. A confidential place in which to discuss work challenges as well as child-rearing experiences has been a great blessing for me.

Like other entrepreneurs with a growing business and a family to raise, Peter and I have limited time. But being involved with EO has become a priority for us both. Our involvement in our Forums and attendance at various meetings and activities is an enriching experience that we value enormously.

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Check out this Web page on EOnetwork for more information on Spousal Forums.