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Alternative Exit #22 | Building a European Future Through Employee Ownership

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Content provided by Andy. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Andy or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://ppacc.player.fm/legal.

Episode Summary:
In this episode of The Alternative Exit Podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Tej Gonza—researcher, author, and co-founder of the Institute for Economic Democracy in Slovenia. Tej is a powerful voice in the global employee ownership movement, leading policy innovation and grassroots change across Europe. He’s also a research fellow at Rutgers University and the co-author of the “European ESOP,” an ambitious model that aims to expand employee ownership through democratic, cooperative structures.

We talk about the real impact of employee ownership on businesses, communities, and economic resilience—especially as Europe braces for a wave of generational business exits. Tej also dives deep into how the European ESOP was designed, what makes it unique, and why he believes participatory ownership is essential for building sustainable enterprises. Whether you're a business owner, policy leader, or just curious about the future of capitalism, this one’s packed with fresh ideas and global insight.

Key Takeaways:

- How Tej discovered employee ownership through academic curiosity and macroeconomic mentorship
- Why employee ownership matters from business, social, and macroeconomic perspectives
- The generational wealth transfer challenge facing Europe—and why employee ownership is a strategic solution
- How Slovenia is setting the pace for employee ownership policy in the EU
- The fundamental differences between employee ownership and employee shareholding
- Why capital access and ownership rights matter in building sustainable employee-owned businesses
- How the European ESOP uses a cooperative SPV and rollover model to tackle liquidity challenges
- The importance of education and financial literacy in making employee ownership work
- Why political will, smart regulation, and scalable models are key to driving broader adoption
About Dr. Tej Gonza
Dr. Tej Gonza is the co-founder and director of the Institute for Economic Democracy in Slovenia. A leading researcher in the field, Tej is a research fellow at Rutgers University’s Institute for the Study of Employee Ownership and Profit Sharing and is actively shaping employee ownership legislation across the European Union. He is the co-author of the European ESOP model and a vocal advocate for democratizing economic systems through broad-based, participatory ownership structures.
Connect with Dr. Tej Gonza
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gonzatej/
Website: https://ied.si/en/
Connect with Andy Farquharson:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyfarquharson/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/andyfarq
Website - https://abettermonday.me/
Email - andy@bettermonday.me

  continue reading

24 episodes

Artwork
iconShare
 
Manage episode 482857218 series 3621108
Content provided by Andy. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Andy or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://ppacc.player.fm/legal.

Episode Summary:
In this episode of The Alternative Exit Podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Tej Gonza—researcher, author, and co-founder of the Institute for Economic Democracy in Slovenia. Tej is a powerful voice in the global employee ownership movement, leading policy innovation and grassroots change across Europe. He’s also a research fellow at Rutgers University and the co-author of the “European ESOP,” an ambitious model that aims to expand employee ownership through democratic, cooperative structures.

We talk about the real impact of employee ownership on businesses, communities, and economic resilience—especially as Europe braces for a wave of generational business exits. Tej also dives deep into how the European ESOP was designed, what makes it unique, and why he believes participatory ownership is essential for building sustainable enterprises. Whether you're a business owner, policy leader, or just curious about the future of capitalism, this one’s packed with fresh ideas and global insight.

Key Takeaways:

- How Tej discovered employee ownership through academic curiosity and macroeconomic mentorship
- Why employee ownership matters from business, social, and macroeconomic perspectives
- The generational wealth transfer challenge facing Europe—and why employee ownership is a strategic solution
- How Slovenia is setting the pace for employee ownership policy in the EU
- The fundamental differences between employee ownership and employee shareholding
- Why capital access and ownership rights matter in building sustainable employee-owned businesses
- How the European ESOP uses a cooperative SPV and rollover model to tackle liquidity challenges
- The importance of education and financial literacy in making employee ownership work
- Why political will, smart regulation, and scalable models are key to driving broader adoption
About Dr. Tej Gonza
Dr. Tej Gonza is the co-founder and director of the Institute for Economic Democracy in Slovenia. A leading researcher in the field, Tej is a research fellow at Rutgers University’s Institute for the Study of Employee Ownership and Profit Sharing and is actively shaping employee ownership legislation across the European Union. He is the co-author of the European ESOP model and a vocal advocate for democratizing economic systems through broad-based, participatory ownership structures.
Connect with Dr. Tej Gonza
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gonzatej/
Website: https://ied.si/en/
Connect with Andy Farquharson:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyfarquharson/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/andyfarq
Website - https://abettermonday.me/
Email - andy@bettermonday.me

  continue reading

24 episodes

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Episode Summary: In today’s episode of The Alternative Exit, I’m joined by Erinch Sahan, Business and Enterprise Lead at the Donut Economics Action Lab. Erinch brings a bold new lens to our conversations on ownership, rooted in his work with the Donut Economics framework – a model that calls for businesses to operate within ecological limits while meeting social needs. Erinch and I dive into how enterprise design and ownership models like employee ownership can transform businesses into vehicles for long-term sustainability, fairness, and resilience. We explore why now is the perfect moment for retiring business owners to reimagine the future of their companies, and how structures that give employees a real stake in decision-making and outcomes can help get us into the “donut” – a safe, just space for humanity. Key Takeaways: What is Donut Economics and how it redefines the role of business Why ownership and governance models matter for sustainable transformation The connection between employee ownership and long-term ecological resilience How local ownership leads to more responsible decision-making Challenges owners face when transitioning to alternative ownership models Why fear of change – from employees or advisors – is often misplaced The role of enterprise design in unlocking innovation and employee engagement Why the transition to employee ownership isn’t binary and doesn’t mean giving up all control About Erinch Sahan Erinch Sahan is the Business and Enterprise Lead at the Donut Economics Action Lab. Prior to this, he served as the Chief Executive of the World Fair Trade Organization, worked at Oxfam, and taught at the Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership. With over 900 businesses engaged in his work, Erinch brings deep insight into how to redesign businesses to serve both people and planet. Connect with Erinch Sahan: Website: https://doughnuteconomics.org LinkedIn: Erinch Sahan Connect with Andy Farquharson: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyfarquharson/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/andyfarq Website - https://abettermonday.me/ Email - andy@bettermonday.me…
 
Episode Summary: Today’s episode offers a fresh perspective—from the employee’s seat. I’m joined by the brilliant and energetic Sam Moles, who brings a front-line view into what employee ownership actually looks like day-to-day. As a Trustee Representative and marketing lead at Stephens Scown, Sam unpacks how ownership changes mindsets, motivates innovation, and transforms how people show up at work. We dive into practical systems, cultural shifts, and leadership traits that make employee ownership real. We dive into what it really means to be an employee owner—from developing commercial awareness and mindset shifts, to creating structured systems for employee voice and innovation. Sam shares how Stephens Scown is empowering their people through initiatives like their "Ideas from Sconers" portal and parishes forum, and what leadership looks like in a democratically governed, employee-driven business. If you're wondering how to unlock engagement, transparency, and entrepreneurial thinking in your own business, this is an episode you’ll want to take notes on. Key Takeaways: What it means to serve as an elected trustee in an employee-owned firm How Stephens Scown created employee voice at the strategy table The shift from employee to owner—and how it unlocks commercial thinking How the "Ideas from Sconers" system works and the business case behind it The role of trust boards, parishes, and peer-to-peer coaching in EO cultures Why great EO leaders coach, challenge, and encourage entrepreneurial risk-taking How employee ownership can drive better businesses and better societies Why open feedback loops and transparency build real trust How employees can grow their EO knowledge through community sharing About Sam Moles Sam Moles is the Digital Marketing Manager and Trustee Representative at Stephens Scown, a leading employee-owned law firm in the UK. Named the Employee Owner of the Year in 2023, Sam has played a key role in shaping how employee voice is embedded at a strategic level within the firm. Known for his boundless energy and passion for EO, Sam also leads peer-learning initiatives across employee-owned businesses and champions practical tools that help shift mindsets from employee to owner. Connect with Sam Moles: LinkedIn: Sam Moles – Stephens Scown Website: https://www.stephens-scown.co.uk Connect with Andy Farquharson: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyfarquharson/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/andyfarq Website - https://abettermonday.me/ Email - andy@bettermonday.me…
 
Episode Summary: In this episode of The Alternative Exit Podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Tej Gonza—researcher, author, and co-founder of the Institute for Economic Democracy in Slovenia. Tej is a powerful voice in the global employee ownership movement, leading policy innovation and grassroots change across Europe. He’s also a research fellow at Rutgers University and the co-author of the “European ESOP,” an ambitious model that aims to expand employee ownership through democratic, cooperative structures. We talk about the real impact of employee ownership on businesses, communities, and economic resilience—especially as Europe braces for a wave of generational business exits. Tej also dives deep into how the European ESOP was designed, what makes it unique, and why he believes participatory ownership is essential for building sustainable enterprises. Whether you're a business owner, policy leader, or just curious about the future of capitalism, this one’s packed with fresh ideas and global insight. Key Takeaways: - How Tej discovered employee ownership through academic curiosity and macroeconomic mentorship - Why employee ownership matters from business, social, and macroeconomic perspectives - The generational wealth transfer challenge facing Europe—and why employee ownership is a strategic solution - How Slovenia is setting the pace for employee ownership policy in the EU - The fundamental differences between employee ownership and employee shareholding - Why capital access and ownership rights matter in building sustainable employee-owned businesses - How the European ESOP uses a cooperative SPV and rollover model to tackle liquidity challenges - The importance of education and financial literacy in making employee ownership work - Why political will, smart regulation, and scalable models are key to driving broader adoption About Dr. Tej Gonza Dr. Tej Gonza is the co-founder and director of the Institute for Economic Democracy in Slovenia. A leading researcher in the field, Tej is a research fellow at Rutgers University’s Institute for the Study of Employee Ownership and Profit Sharing and is actively shaping employee ownership legislation across the European Union. He is the co-author of the European ESOP model and a vocal advocate for democratizing economic systems through broad-based, participatory ownership structures. Connect with Dr. Tej Gonza LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gonzatej/ Website: https://ied.si/en/ Connect with Andy Farquharson: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyfarquharson/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/andyfarq Website - https://abettermonday.me/ Email - andy@bettermonday.me…
 
Episode Summary: For today's episode of The Alternative Exit Podcast, I'm joined by Steve Storkan, Executive Director of the Employee Ownership Expansion Network (EOX). With over 25 years of experience in the employee ownership space, Steve has helped shape how businesses and communities embrace ownership models like ESOPs and Employee Ownership Trusts across the U.S. We dive into the cultural and emotional side of employee ownership, the growing network of state centers EOX is building, and what it takes to make ownership more mainstream in America. Steve also shares some of the biggest misconceptions about employee ownership and why capital access and education remain two of the biggest hurdles. Whether you're a business owner considering your next move or someone passionate about inclusive growth, this conversation is packed with perspective and purpose. Key Takeaways: How Steve’s experience in the Marine Corps led to a surprising path into employee ownership The emotional connection and cultural power of ESOPs Why financial literacy is critical to employee engagement The role third-party administrators play in bridging education gaps Common misconceptions that make ESOPs hard to explain—and how to fix that How EOX is scaling state-by-state to increase national awareness Why employee ownership is a retention tool, and not (yet) a recruitment tool The challenge of capital access—and how philanthropy and impact funds are changing that The rise of ESOP-led acquisitions to grow ownership across sectors What’s next for the employee ownership movement About Steve Storkan Steve Storkan is the Executive Director of the Employee Ownership Expansion Network (EOX), a national nonprofit on a mission to grow employee ownership across the United States by supporting the development of state centers. Since joining EOX in 2019, Steve has helped expand the network from 8 to 24 state centers and continues to advocate for inclusive business models that benefit both owners and employees. Connect with Steve Storkan Email: info@eoxnetwork.org LinkedIn: Steve Storkan Website: https://eoxnetwork.org Connect with Andy Farquharson: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyfarquharson/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/andyfarq Website - https://abettermonday.me/ Email - andy@bettermonday.me…
 
Episode Summary: In this episode of The Alternative Exit , I’m joined by Daniel Goldstein an experienced executive, former CEO of Foliance, and a dedicated advocate for employee ownership. With a career spanning corporate governance, ESOP advocacy, and organizational transformation, Daniel brings a deeply thoughtful and practical lens to how businesses can embrace employee ownership and thrive. We dive into what happens after the ownership transition — how to ensure long-term sustainability, build buy-in, and drive culture within employee-owned companies. From turning a balance sheet crisis into a holding company opportunity, to creating tangible tools like a "license to act" card that foster true ownership mindset, Daniel shares a masterclass in smart leadership, accountability, and systems that scale. Key Takeaways: The biggest fear in employee ownership isn’t the model — it’s employees undervaluing what they have Why shared services and ESOP holding companies simplify transition and scale The difference between ownership and entitlement (and how education bridges the gap) Why culture change starts with leadership modeling, not employee handbooks The “80,000 hours” mindset that makes work about more than just financial rewards How governance done well empowers decision-making and accountability at every level Why focusing on what’s working — through appreciative inquiry — is more powerful than postmortems What’s next in employee ownership: EOTs, sustainability modeling, and cultural storytelling About Daniel Goldstein: Daniel Goldstein is the former President and CEO of Foliance, a 100% employee-owned holding company based in Iowa. During his tenure, he transformed the organization through innovative acquisitions, thoughtful governance, and deep cultural investment. Today, he serves as an executive fellow at the Rutgers Institute of Employee Ownership and Profit Sharing, and continues to support the EO community as a speaker, board member, and advisor. Connect with Daniel Goldstein: Email: goesopllc@gmail.com LinkedIn: Daniel Goldstein Connect with Andy Farquharson: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyfarquharson/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/andyfarq Website - https://abettermonday.me/ Email - andy@bettermonday.me…
 
Episode Summary: For today's episode of The Alternative Exit Podcast, Andy Farquharson is joined by Deb Oxley, a prominent advocate for employee ownership and the Chair, NED, Mentor, and Specialist in Employee Ownership. She shared stories of how she influenced companies about employee ownership, the need to influence influencers like accountants and lawyers about its importance, and its impacts. They also talked about the 'whoosh' effect on employee ownership and the concept of 'financial freedom day.' Listen to learn more about these. Enjoy the show! Key Takeaways: How Deb found her way into the employee ownership space Big challenges to sharing awareness about employee ownership with companies The pre-transition space of accountants and lawyers What is the ownership 'whoosh' effect? The financial freedom day Employee ownership is a change of ownership, not leadership. Importance of financial literacy in employee ownership Giving a level of personal accountability to employees What is the biggest barrier to growth for employee ownership? About Deb Oxley Deb Oxley is a prominent advocate for employee ownership. She had a tenure from 2015 to 2022 as the CEO of the Employee Ownership Association in the UK. During her time, she had a significant impact on the organization, growing its reach and impact. Deb was awarded an OBE in 2019 for her services to employee ownership and social enterprise. Connect with Deb Oxley X: @DebOxley LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deboxley Email: deb@oxleyworks.co.uk Resources: https://employeeownership.co.uk/ Connect with Andy Farquharson: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyfarquharson/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/andyfarq Website - https://abettermonday.me/ Email - andy@bettermonday.me…
 
Episode Summary: In this episode of The Alternative Exit Podcast, Andy Farquharson interviews Chris Mackin, a luminary in employee ownership who has spent four and a half decades in this field. He is the founder and president of Ownership Associates, a consulting firm based in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Today, he talks about the history of employee ownership in the U.S., the introduction of employee relationships, and the idea of employee ownership in the legal and financial aspects. Listen and enjoy the show! Key Takeaways: The history of employee ownership in the United States Introduction of employee relationship The misconceptions about employee ownership: It is not socialism The vision of an industrial republic Importance of changing organizational culture and employee engagement as part of the transition Creating democratic capitalism ESOP vs EOT The biggest challenge to implementing employee-owned structures in companies Having future committees in ESOP companies The Employee Equity Investment Act About Chris Mackin Chris Mackin is the founder and president of Ownership Associates, a consulting firm based in Cambridge, Massachusetts. He is also a fellow at the Rutgers University School of Management and Labor Relations, where he teaches a course on democratic capitalism and contributes to the Institute for the Study of Employee Ownership and Profit Sharing. He plays an active role in shaping policies that govern employee ownership and participates in employee ownership symposiums around the world. Connect with Chris Mackin -Website: https://ownershipassociates.com/ -LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-mackin-3238723/ Connect with Andy Farquharson: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyfarquharson/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/andyfarq Website - https://abettermonday.me/ Email - andy@bettermonday.me…
 
Episode Summary: In this episode of The Alternative Exit, Andy Farquharson speaks with John Guzek, a researcher and practitioner specializing in Employee Ownership and Organizational Behavior. Recently, he co-authored an article called 'Overcoming the Barriers to Employee Ownership: Insights from a Small and Medium Business.' Today, John will dive into the conversation about the barriers to employee ownership, especially for small and medium business owners, the idea of an ownership operating system, and the difference between ESOP and shared ownership. Listen and enjoy! Key Takeaways: - John's inspiration to research barriers to employee ownership among SMB owners - Reasons why people reject the idea of employee ownership - What is shared ownership and the ownership operating system? - The easiest and toughest thing for owners to do in employee ownership - Turning employees into an innovation engine - Difference between ESOP and shared ownership - The transition towards a shared ownership lifestyle model - John's advice for business owners who want to transition to employee ownership About John Guzek John Guzek is a researcher and practitioner specializing in Employee Ownership and Organizational Behavior. Recently, he has co-authored an article called 'Overcoming the Barriers to Employee Ownership, Insights from a Small and Medium Business.' Connect with John Guzek: - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/guzekjc/ Connect with Andy Farquharson: - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyfarquharson/ - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/andyfarq - Website - https://abettermonday.me/ - Email - andy@bettermonday.me…
 
Episode Summary: For today's episode of The Alternative Exit Podcast, Andy Farquharson is joined by Beth Spong, CEO of Dean's Beans Organic Coffee. She had a career working in a non-profit and a respected leader in employee ownership. In this episode, she shared her journey working with Dean's Beans Organic Coffee and how she helped the company on its transition from being a founder-led company to an employee-owned company via co-op. She also talked about the challenges of leading change in a company, and the response of employees with their transition to employee ownership. Listen and enjoy the show! Key Takeaways: - Helping Dean's Beans' transition from being founder-led to employee-owned via co-op - Preserving the mission and looking after employees in the local community - How to know if a company is ready for the ownership transition? - What do bylaws mean in a co-op? - Periodic opportunities for people to question decisions - The biggest challenge as a leader in supporting and guiding change in a company - Employees' response to their transition to being an owner - Beth's favorite resource on employee ownership About Beth Spong Beth Spong is the CEO of Dean's Beans Organic Coffee. She has a career in non-profits and is a respected leader in employee ownership. Beth has overseen the transition of this business from founder-led to an employee-owned model and as a co-op. As a permanent voice in employee ownership, she contributed to reshaping the narrative of how worker empowerment and shared governance can transform the work environment for her people. Connect with Beth Spong: - Website: https://deansbeans.com/ - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DeansBeansOrganicFairTradeCoffee Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deansbeanscoffee Connect with Andy Farquharson: - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyfarquharson/ - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/andyfarq - Website - https://abettermonday.me/ - Email - andy@bettermonday.me…
 
Episode Summary: For today's episode of The Alternative Exit Podcast, Andy Farquharson is joined by Alex Moss, a pioneer in the field of employee ownership and is currently the president of Praxis Consulting Group. Alex has decades of experience advising employee-owned companies and mission-driven organizations. He served in leadership roles on the boards of multiple ESOPs and has been a key advocate in the employee ownership community. Andy will dive into Alex's journey and his work at Praxis. He also shared in this episode his insights on creating resilient and high-performing organizations through employee ownership. Listen and learn more about these topics, and enjoy the show! Key Takeaways: Alex and his story of forming Praxis Consulting Group. Employee ownership is a great tool to help people succeed Core elements of a great employee ownership model Connecting theory and practice at Praxis How Alex approach organizational change What is business sustainability The value system of ownership vs leadership Why won't employees want ownership? About Alex Moss Alex Moss is the Founding Principal of Praxis Consulting Group. He is a pioneer in the field of employee ownership and has decades of experience advising employee-owned companies and mission-driven organizations. Alex has served in leadership roles on the boards of multiple ESOPs and has been a key advocate in the employee ownership community. Connect with Alex Moss Website: https://www.praxiscg.com/team/alexander-p-moss-mppm Connect with Andy Farquharson: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyfarquharson/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/andyfarq Website - https://abettermonday.me/ Email - andy@bettermonday.me…
 
Episode Summary: In this episode of The Alternative Exit Podcast , Andy Farquharson is joined by Alison Lingane, a dedicated social entrepreneur who spent her career leveraging the business. She co-founded a non-profit called Project Equity, which promotes employee ownership. She shared her journey with Project Equity and her transition to focus on expanding investment capital for employee ownership through the Ownership Capital Labs, which is advancing shared ownership models. Alison and Andy also talked about the power of employee ownership, the cash collateral program, and the beauty of the employee ownership space. There is a lot of value in this episode; enjoy the show! Key Takeaways: Alison's inspiration to co-found Project Equity The real power of ownership through the lens of employee ownership Impacts of collective groups of employee-owned businesses on the local economy About the cash collateral program Reorder of steps in the process of employee ownership Bridging the gap for employee ownership with Ownership Capital Labs Alison's advice for business owners about employee ownership About Alison Lingane Alison Lingane is a dedicated social entrepreneur who spent her career leveraging business. Ten years ago, she co-founded a non-profit called Project Equity, an organization that has been promoting employee ownership. She also expanded from Project Equity to investment capital for employee ownership through the Ownership Capital Labs. Connect with Alison Lingane Website: https://ownershipcapitallab.capital/ Connect with Andy Farquharson: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyfarquharson/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/andyfarq Website - https://abettermonday.me/ Email - andy@bettermonday.me…
 
Episode Summary: In this episode of The Alternative Exit Podcast , Andy Farquharson interviews Drew Mousetis, the Executive Director of Tandem Centre for Shared Business Success. Drew shares his experience working in Cargas and how the company helped him become an expert in direct employee ownership. He shared the benefits of direct employee ownership and the powerful impact of keeping businesses community-centered. They also talked about the stock grant program, educating employees about the company's financial and operational data, and the five different stages of employee ownership. Listen and hear Drew's inspiring stories and value in this field. Enjoy the show! Key Takeaways: The concept of shared success for all employees Benefits of direct employee ownership to Drew while in Cargas Guiding principles of direct employee ownership Train employees to learn and understand the company's financial and operational data How the Employee Stock Ownership Plan differs from other models of employee ownership The five different stages of employee ownership About Drew Mousetis Drew Mousetis is a leader in the field of employee ownership. He is the Executive Director of Tandem Centre for Shared Business Success, and he previously worked extensively with Cargas. With Cargas, Drew helped the company to transition towards an employee-owned company. Now, at Tandem, his mission is to help companies create lasting legacies through direct employee ownership. Connect with Drew Mousetis Website - https://www.tandemcenter.org/ Connect with Andy Farquharson: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyfarquharson/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/andyfarq Website - https://abettermonday.me/ Email - andy@bettermonday.me…
 
Episode Summary: In this episode of The Alternative Exit Podcast , host Andy Farquharson sits down with Rob Brown, Director of Business Ownership Solutions at the Cooperative Development Institute (CDI), to discuss the transformative power of employee ownership. Rob shares insights into how transitioning businesses to employee-owned cooperatives not only benefits employees but also builds stronger communities and ensures business continuity. From sharing real-world examples to outlining CDI’s comprehensive transition support, Rob explains the key factors that make employee-owned companies thrive. Tune in to hear Rob’s expert take on why employee ownership is more than just a financial decision—it’s a path to lasting legacy and stability. Key Takeaways: The mindset shift required for employees to see themselves as owners. Open-book management to create a culture of trust and engagement. The financial and interpersonal benefits of employee-owned cooperatives. The transition with CDI’s “soup-to-nuts” approach to support and training. The process of turning employees into credible, bankable buyers. Resources Mentioned: Democracy at Work Institute - https://institute.coop/ The Great Game of Business - https://www.greatgame.com/ About Rob Brown: Rob Brown is the director of Business Ownership Solutions at the Cooperative Development Institute. He is a nationally recognized expert in the field of cooperative ownership transitions and transaction development, and has assisted dozens of companies to explore, assess, structure and execute worker cooperative conversions. Rob has developed extensive programs of education, training, coaching and technical assistance for boards, management and members in new worker-owned cooperatives, and leads programs at the local, regional, and national level to educate and advise business owners on the exit planning process and options. Connect with Corey Rosen: Website - https://cdi.coop/ Connect with Andy Farquhason: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyfarquharson/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/andyfarq Website - https://abettermonday.me/ Email - andy@abettermonday.me…
 
Episode Summary: In this episode of The Alternative Exit Podcast , Andy Farquharson hosts Maureen Conway, Vice President at the Aspen Institute and Executive Director of its Economic Opportunities Program. Together, they delve into the transformative potential of employee ownership, discussing how it addresses economic inequality, enhances job quality, and fosters long-term business competitiveness. Maureen shares her journey advocating for inclusive business models, highlights innovative initiatives from the Aspen Institute, and offers actionable advice for business owners considering transitioning to employee ownership. Packed with insights, this episode is a must-listen for anyone exploring sustainable business models and community impact. Tune in to discover how employee ownership can redefine success for companies and workers alike! Key Takeaways: The transformational power of employee ownership in building equitable economies. Myths about employee-owned companies and showcasing their scalability. Advice for business owners planning a transition to employee ownership. How employee ownership fosters civic engagement and strengthens communities. Systemic barriers that hinder the growth of employee ownership models. About Maureen Conway: Maureen Conway serves as vice president at the Aspen Institute and executive director of the Institute’s Economic Opportunities Program (EOP). EOP works to expand individuals’ opportunities to connect to quality work, start businesses, and build economic stability that provides the freedom to pursue opportunity. Maureen founded EOP’s Workforce Strategies Initiative and has headed up workforce research at the Aspen Institute since 1999. Maureen also curates a public discussion series at the Aspen Institute, Opportunity in America, which brings together voices from business, labor, policy, human services, media, academia, and others to discuss the challenges experienced by many in today’s labor markets and new ideas for addressing these challenges. In addition, Maureen oversees EOP’s leadership development programs, which connect innovators, both within communities and from across the country, to peers working to help low- and moderate-income Americans access opportunity. Connect with Maureen Conway: Website - https://www.aspeninstitute.org/people/maureen-conway/ Connect with Andy Farquharson: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyfarquharson/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/andyfarq Website - https://abettermonday.me/ Email - andy@abettermonday.me…
 
In this episode of The Alternative Exit Podcast , Andy Farquharson sits down with Matt Hancock, a consultant at Praxis Consulting Group and co-founder of Chicago Tech Academy, to explore how organizations can create thriving ownership cultures. Matt shares his journey from Italy’s cooperative economy to working with U.S. employee-owned companies, offering invaluable insights into how leaders can foster innovation, resilience, and inclusivity in employee ownership. He discusses the building blocks of ownership culture, from education and leadership development to continuous improvement practices, and highlights the long-term benefits of investing in people. This episode is packed with actionable advice and thought-provoking stories that will inspire any business owner considering employee ownership. Don’t miss out on this engaging conversation—listen now to unlock the full potential of ownership culture! Key Takeaways: The essential link between rights and responsibilities in ownership culture. How education and leadership are the foundation of successful employee ownership. The transformative impact of continuous improvement practices in employee-owned companies. How transparency and financial literacy empower employees to think and act like owners. How aligning leadership values with organizational goals creates long-term resilience. About Matt Hancock: Matt Hancock helps organizations develop ownership cultures that are inclusive, resilient, and innovative. In addition to employee-owned firms, Matt has extensive experience working with labor-management partnerships and non-profit organizations in the United States and the European Union. Prior to joining Praxis, Matt co-founded Chicago Tech Academy (ChiTech), Chicago’s first technology-focused high school. Matt began his career in Bologna, Italy, where he earned a Master’s in Cooperative Economics from the University of Bologna. He authored a book, Compete to Cooperate, about the cooperative movement there. He holds a BA in history from Skidmore College, a Green Belt in Lean/Six Sigma and is the past Chair of The ESOP Association’s Ownership Culture Committee. Connect with Matt Hancock: Website - https://www.praxiscg.com/team/matthew-hancock-mba Connect with Andy Farquharson: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyfarquharson/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/andyfarq Website - https://abettermonday.me/ Email - andy@abettermonday.me…
 
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