There are unique challenges and opportunities to running a closely held or family-owned business and having an effective board.

At this year's Pittsburgh Smart Business Dealmakers Conference, four entrepreneurs shared tips and insights on effective board presentations, emphasizing the importance of storytelling, simplicity and prioritizing critical information.

The panelists — serial entrepreneurs Jason Wolfe and Meredith Meyer Grelli, Free Market Health founder Joe Cardosi and Net Health founder Patrick Colletti — also emphasized the importance of diversity, strategic focus and proactive management in effective board governance. 

"I think leaders are often allergic to storytelling," Meredith says. "But if you combine data and storytelling together, you make such a bigger impact."

In this recording of the session, the panelists also delve into the essential steps for getting your management team board-ready, and explore the art of CEO leadership in the boardroom.