For the CEO of Kohler Co., his business' success is all in the family.

Herbert V. Kohler Jr., chairman, CEO and president of Kohler Co., addressed publicly traded and privately owned companies and what each has to offer in a Wednesday speech at the university's Business Leaders Forum.

This company has come a long way from its Sheboygan beginnings. Like most companies, Kohler has seen ups and downs in its long history, and has struggled at times to remain private. Kohler focused on this issue.

Kohler Co., which is 133 years old, was launched in 1873 by Austrian immigrant John Michael Kohler and famous for its plumbing and kitchen products. However, according to kohler.com, Kohler has gone beyond the kitchen and bathroom setting, now offering products including engines, generators, furniture, cabinetry and tile, as well asA