Podcasts about employee stock ownership plan esop

What does it take to go from the courtroom to the oilfield? On this episode of Oilfield 360, hosts David De Roode and James Wicklund talk with Lucas Jovi, President & CEO of Go Wireline.From his start as a lawyer in Las Vegas to leading a wireline company in North Dakota, Lucas shares key insights on technology, industry challenges, and the impact of Go Wireline's move to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).A must-listen for anyone in the energy space!00:00 Introduction and Host Banter00:18 OTC Week in Houston01:53 Guest Introduction: Lucas Jovi02:38 Lucas Jovi's Background and Career Journey03:34 The Boom in Williston, North Dakota06:24 Starting Go Wireline15:35 Family Life and Moving to Williston18:48 Curling and Oil Field Technology26:50 Raising the Bar: Achieving NASA-Level Standards27:20 Scaling Up: From Small Business to Industry Competitor28:05 Challenges in the Wireline Sector29:10 Maintaining High Standards in a Competitive Market30:02 Expanding Operations and Infrastructure31:39 Employee Motivation and Retention34:12 The ESOP Transition: Empowering Employees40:29 Navigating Market Challenges and Opportunities44:16 The Role of Bankruptcy in the Oilfield Service Sector50:10 Strategic Growth and Equipment Management57:03 Final Thoughts and Words of Wisdom

Ever thought about using an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) as a way to transition your business? In this episode, Adam Hill sits down with ESOP expert Kelly Finnell to break down how these plans work, why they're the best move for some family-owned businesses, and what it really takes to put one in place.They'll cover how ESOPs can protect your company's culture, reward your team, and offer a meaningful path to succession—all while keeping the heart of the business intact.0:00 Intro5:37 Kelly's journey as an ESOP pioneer19:22 Tax benefits and "losers" in ESOP transactions25:52 Minimum requirements for ESOP candidates31:43 ESOPs in different industries and cultures36:32 Governance structures in ESOP companies40:11 The concept of compassionate capitalism43:42 How owners can prepare for ESOPsResources Mentioned:The ESOP Coach by Kelly FinnellEFS ESOP ConsultantsEmail: adam.hill@eosworldwide.comFollow Adam:IG: @theadamchillYouTube: @adamchillLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamchill

SummaryIn this episode of the Restaurant Owners Uncorked podcast, Wil chats with Justin Cucci, a seasoned restaurateur from Denver. They discuss Justin's early experiences in hospitality, the importance of passion in the industry, and the distinction between hospitality and service. Justin shares insights on implementing an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) in his restaurant group, highlighting its benefits for employee engagement and business sustainability. The conversation also touches on the current challenges facing the restaurant industry, including rising costs, labor shortages, and the impact of technology. Justin emphasizes the collaborative spirit among Denver restaurateurs and the resilience of the industry in the face of adversity. In this conversation, the speakers explore the profound impact of food on community and individual well-being, emphasizing the responsibility of restaurateurs to provide access to healthy food. They discuss innovative dining concepts like 'stealth health' that prioritize delicious yet nutritious meals. The dialogue shifts to personal dietary experiences, including the keto diet, and the importance of adapting to health needs as one ages. Music, particularly the Grateful Dead, is highlighted as a source of inspiration and philosophy in life and business. The speakers also reflect on the challenges faced in the restaurant industry, advocating for a positive mindset and the value of constructive criticism as a means of growth. Takeaways Justin grew up in a hospitality family, which shaped his career. Passion is essential for success in the restaurant industry. Hospitality is about making people feel welcome, not just providing service. An ESOP allows employees to have ownership and share in profits. The restaurant industry is facing significant challenges, including rising costs and labor shortages. Collaboration among restaurant owners is crucial for navigating challenges. The importance of community and local support for restaurants cannot be overstated. Technology can enhance efficiency but should not replace authentic hospitality. The restaurant industry is resilient and adaptive, often stepping up in times of crisis. Long-term commitment is necessary for success in the restaurant business. Don't underestimate the value of restaurants in a community. Food has a healing power that brings people together. Restaurateurs have a responsibility to provide healthy food access. 'Stealth health' allows for delicious yet nutritious dining options. Dietary choices can evolve with personal health needs. Music can influence creativity and business philosophy. Leadership can be informed by storytelling and character development. Challenges in the restaurant industry require a positive mindset. Constructive criticism is essential for growth and improvement. Embracing challenges can lead to resilience and innovation.

What if the path to successful entrepreneurship isn't just about finding a compelling market idea, but also about crafting an intentional exit strategy that benefits an entire community? On this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, we dive into an unconventional exit strategy that prioritizes employees and community sustainability. Marcia, our host, welcomes Gina Schaefer, a pioneering entrepreneur who transitioned her successful hardware store chain to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), ensuring her legacy and providing her team with a stake in the business – not to mention a nice payout for her and her family.Gina Schaefer, along with her husband Mark, founded what began as a single hardware store in a once-struggling neighborhood in Washington, D.C., and expanded it to a 13-store enterprise under the Ace Hardware cooperative. Her entrepreneurial journey, defined by community revitalization, culminated in a unique exit strategy that included selling a 30% stake of the company to its employees through an ESOP, with plans to eventually transition to 100% employee ownership. Gina's commitment to her team and community shines through, highlighting her innovative approach to succession planning.In this must-listen episode, Gina unravels the process of establishing an ESOP, discussing the transformation it brings to company culture, employee ownership, and wealth generation. Listeners will gain insights into the benefits and complexities of ESOPs, as well as the broader impacts on community and economic structure. By highlighting this thoughtful and community-oriented exit strategy, Gina's story offers a fresh perspective on how entrepreneurship can go beyond personal success to foster community growth and empowerment. To get the latest from Gina Schaefer, you can follow her below!https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginaschaefer-speaker/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing!Website: www.marciadawood.comLearn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.comAnd don't forget to follow us wherever you are!Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.appleSpotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotifyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood

Welcome to Industry Spotlight—a focused series hosted by Sam D'Arc, highlighting standout dealerships and innovative companies, and exploring the trends driving success in today's automotive market. Today, Sam sits down with Jennica Krebsbach, Controller at Van Horn Auto Group, and Julie Douglas, CEO of Dealer Pay. This episode of the Car Dealership Guy Podcast is brought to you by Dealer Pay: 1. Dealer Pay – Designed to increase productivity and customer retention, Dealer Pay is a dealer-specific payment acceptance solution with over 25 years of experience as a trusted payments partner for dealerships across the U.S. Contact Julie today - julie@dealer-pay.com or 636-442-4901

Are you a business owner considering an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) or exploring succession strategies? In this episode of the Finish Big Podcast, Mark Dorman delves into ESOP financing, discussing how bank and seller financing typically work together, and the potential advantages of mezzanine loans. Gain insights into tax implications, the role of ESOP trustees, and how these plans can benefit both the business and the community. This week's guest, Kelly Finnell, President of Executive Financial Services Inc., offers his expertise on ESOPs. He covers essential topics such as the process, timeline, and personal satisfaction involved in executing a successful business transition. Tune into this episode for a comprehensive guide to ESOPs and succession planning. Discover how to navigate these complex transactions and ensure your business's legacy thrives. Don't miss out—listen now! Mark and Kelly discuss: Combining bank and seller financing, and the use of mezzanine loans. Differences in taxation for current pay interest and warrants in seller debt. Ensuring fair market value and commercially reasonable terms in ESOP transactions. The typical changes in the business owner's role, salary, and benefits. The steps and time required for feasibility analysis and transaction implementation. Connect with Mark Dorman: Succession Plus US LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus Connect with Kelly Finnell: LinkedIn: Kelly Finnell About our guest: Kelly Finnell is a leading ESOP consultant and president of Executive Financial Services Inc. Based in Memphis, Tennessee, Kelly specializes in ownership succession planning and has authored “The ESOP Coach.” With extensive expertise in ESOP transactions, Kelly guides businesses through financing, taxation, and trustee responsibilities.

Are you a business owner considering an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) or exploring succession strategies? In this episode of the Finish Big Podcast, Mark Gorman delves into ESOP financing, discussing how bank and seller financing typically work together, and the potential advantages of mezzanine loans. Gain insights into tax implications, the role of ESOP trustees, and how these plans can benefit both the business and the community. This week's guest, Kelly Finnell, President of Executive Financial Services Inc., offers his expertise on ESOPs. He covers essential topics such as the process, timeline, and personal satisfaction involved in executing a successful business transition. Tune into this episode for a comprehensive guide to ESOPs and succession planning. Discover how to navigate these complex transactions and ensure your business's legacy thrives. Don't miss out—listen now! Mark and John discuss: Combining bank and seller financing, and the use of mezzanine loans. Differences in taxation for current pay interest and warrants in seller debt. Ensuring fair market value and commercially reasonable terms in ESOP transactions. The typical changes in the business owner's role, salary, and benefits. The steps and time required for feasibility analysis and transaction implementation. Connect with Mark Dorman: Succession Plus US LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus Connect with Kelli Finnell: LinkedIn: Kelly Finnell About our guest: Kelli Finnell l is a leading ESOP consultant and president of Executive Financial Services Inc. Based in Memphis, Tennessee, Kelli specializes in ownership succession planning and has authored "The ESOP Coach." With extensive expertise in ESOP transactions, Kelli guides businesses through financing, taxation, and trustee responsibilities.

In this episode with Dan O'Hare, CPA, CGMA, Principal at Glenn Burdette, we explore why CPA firms might choose to implement an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). With O'Hare's insights and expertise, we explore how ESOPs can facilitate smooth succession planning, boost employee retention and engagement and offer significant tax benefits. Additionally, we discuss how this alternative practice structure can improve performance and make the firm more attractive to potential hires. This conversation will help you understand the potential power of ESOPs in reshaping your firm's future.   Want more? Dive into our business model transformation resources. To get more insights on business model transformation and access new podcast episodes automatically and free, follow our show via our podcast homepage. This is a podcast from AICPA & CIMA, together as the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. To enjoy more conversations from our global community of accounting and finance professionals, explore our network of free shows here. Your feedback and comments welcomed at podcast@aicpa-cima.com  

In honor of Employee Ownership Month in October, Mathematica's On the Evidence podcast features a special episode with Paul Decker, Mathematica's president and chief executive officer, and Jim Bonham, the president and chief executive officer of The ESOP Association. On the episode, Decker and Bonham discuss the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) as an evidence-based tool that benefits employees, consumers, and communities across the nation. An ESOP is a retirement vehicle for employees that many companies use to increase employee engagement and retain talent over time. As Decker and Bonham discuss on the episode, an ESOP can be more than a nice perk companies offer their employees. Business leaders and policymakers across the political spectrum have applauded the potential of ESOPs to strengthen the middle class and keep jobs in local communities. Research even shows ESOPs help reduce gender and racial wealth gaps. On the episode, Decker and Bonham discuss the benefits of ESOPs and challenges facing ESOPs going forward. A full transcript of the episode is available at https://www.mathematica.org/blogs/supporting-workers-and-strengthening-communities-through-employee-ownership Read the study from Institute for the Study of Employee Ownership and Profit Sharing within the School of Management and Labor Relations at Rutgers University that found ESOPs help narrow gender and racial wealth gaps: https://smlr.rutgers.edu/sites/smlr/files/Documents/News/rutgerskelloggreport_april2019.pdf Read an article in The Star-Ledger about the benefits of employee stock ownership plans for reducing wealth inequality and ensuring the longevity of a business, which describes Mathematica's experience with becoming an ESOP and quotes Paul Decker: https://www.nj.com/opinion/2024/09/nj-business-owners-need-a-succession-plan-and-workers-need-savings-we-can-solve-both-problems-opinion.html Learn more about Mathematica's history as an employee-owned company: https://mathematica.org/blogs/employee-ownership-is-at-the-heart-of-mathematica

In this episode of Women at WIRC, Candice Rania, president of LEFF Design Build, discusses the transition of the company to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) from a sole ownership model. With LEFF two years into this change, Candice shares insights into the cultural transformation, operational logistics, and goals for the company's future. She also delves into her personal journey from studying interior design to leading a company, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and determination. Additionally, Candice explains the workings of an ESOP, its benefits, and the impact it has had on LEFF's culture and financial transparency. Key challenges and strategies for maintaining growth within a changing market are highlighted, making this episode a valuable listen for those curious about alternative ownership structures in the construction industry. 00:00 Introduction 00:38 Meet Candice Rania 01:52 The Transition to an ESOP 06:12 Cultural and Operational Changes Post-ESOP 12:55 Understanding ESOP Structure and Benefits 18:12 Advice for New ESOP Leaders 20:18 Conclusion and Upcoming Events LEFF: https://leffdesignbuild.com/ WIR+CC: https://www.womensconstructionconference.com/2024/ Custom Builder: https://www.custombuilderonline.com/ Pro Builder: https://www.probuilder.com/ Pro Remodeler: https://www.proremodeler.com/

In this episode of the Private Capital Mastery podcast, host Brian Franco interviews Debra Kaye, CEO of V&A Consulting Engineers. Debra shares her journey from joining the firm to becoming its owner, discussing the challenges and successes along the way. The conversation delves into the acquisition process, the implementation of an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), and the importance of maintaining company culture and employee welfare. Debbie also offers valuable advice for founders and CEOs based on her experiences in the consulting engineering industry. Continue the conversation with Jacob Franco: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jacob's Calendar⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about Brian Franco by visiting: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Email Me⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Debra: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠

Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) are a topic many construction companies consider when planning their business transitions. ESOPs are a proven strategy that allows owners to leverage the wealth they've built through hard work and dedication. Kelly Finnell, J.D., CLU, AIF, is one of the nation's premier Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) consultants. For over four decades, he has been assisting business owners in creating and implementing ESOPs. He has spent decades discussing ESOPs with corporations and groups, giving presentations at over 300 conferences and meetings in the United States and internationally in London and Sydney. His company, Executive Financial Services, is a national ESOP consulting firm founded in 1981 and headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee. Their diverse team of experienced professionals is focused on utilizing Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) for Ownership Succession Planning and possesses deep expertise in this specialized area. He joined us today to talk about the process of building a successful ESOP. We start the conversation with Kelly explaining the biggest challenge in ESOPs: understanding what an ESOP is. Kelly further shares that business owners, especially in the construction industry, need to be patient and prepared for a steep learning curve. An ESOP serves both as a qualified retirement plan and as a liquidity strategy for current owners. Kelly then explains who would best fit ESOPS, saying that it is typically best suited for business owners seeking a gradual exit over five to eight years. For owners wanting to walk away and not look back, a third-party sale would be more appropriate. We then pay attention to the cultural transition that comes with an ESOP. Kelly shares that companies that prioritize maintaining their culture after a sale are ideal candidates for an employee stock ownership plan. Unlike third-party sales, which often lead to cultural shifts that can alienate both employees and customers, an ESOP facilitates an internal transition that helps preserve the existing culture. Further into the conversation, we cover the following topics regarding building a successful foundation for ESOP: ESOP failures and how to avoid them, the initial steps of getting familiar with ESOP, how to address the challenges that come with active and inactive children in a family-owned business, how to navigate personal guarantees.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [02.01] Understanding what an ESOP is.  [06.21] Risks to be aware of when building a foundation for ESOP. [08.39] The standard time frame for exiting a company.  [10.50] The importance of effective communication when implementing an ESOP. [15.15] How to keep employees engaged in the ESOP process during the early years? [18.03] Cultural transition and ESOP.  [25.08] Avoiding ESOP failure.  [27.26] The first steps of getting familiar with ESOP. [31.11] Retirement planning.  [33.48] Addressing challenges regarding active and inactive children in a family-owned business.  [38.17] Navigating personal guarantees.   KEY TAKEAWAYS Consider your desired level of involvement post-sale when choosing an exit strategy. Effective communication and education are crucial when implementing an ESOP. Celebrate and Educate Prioritize Company Culture Start with Education and Expert Guidance   Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/ Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me   RESOURCES Connect with Kelly LinkedIn – linkedin.com/in/esopcoach/  Website - execfin.com/ Book: The ESOP Coach - Using ESOPs in Ownership Succession Planning National Center for Employee Ownership  

In this follow-up episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, we continue our conversation with Dave Zrostlik, CEO of Stellar Industries, along with Drew Larson, Partner at BrownWinick. In the first episode, we explored the remarkable legacy of Frances Zrostlik and his pioneering role in shaping Garner, Iowa's economic landscape. Now, we take a closer look at how that legacy has evolved through the strategic transition of Stellar Industries to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/stellar-industries-part-2  

Liza Borches is the President and CEO of Carter Myers Automotive, a family and employee-owned automotive group serving Central Virginia since 1924. As the fourth-generation leader of CMA, she is the first woman to hold this position in the company's history. Liza continues her family's legacy of honesty, integrity, customer service, and community involvement while driving the business forward. Today, Liza Borches opens up about the intricate balancing act of managing motherhood, marriage, and friendship alongside her demanding professional roles, not to mention her significant involvement in non-profit boards. With candid insights, she stresses the vital role of systems, processes, and supportive networks in achieving this balance. During their conversation, Kaylee and Liza delve into the evolving seasons of life, the importance of mentorship, and the power of sharing women's stories. Liza shares her experiences with coaching, defining her company's mission, and the authentic impact it has had both internally and externally. Listeners will also hear about the transformative Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) that instills pride and ownership among her employees, Liza's dedication to the fixed operations side of the automotive industry, and her innovative program designed to empower women in the industry. Join us as Liza takes us through her unexpected yet passion-filled journey in the automotive world, the evolving dynamics of her family business, and her optimistic vision for the future of transportation. Tune in for a conversation brimming with heartfelt stories, invaluable lessons, and inspiring future plans. -------------------------------------------- This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Their strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit

In this episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, Stellar Industries' CEO Dave Zrostlik shares the inspiring story of his father, Frances Zrostlik, a visionary entrepreneur who played a pivotal role in shaping Garner, Iowa's economic landscape. The conversation highlights the lasting impact of Frances, who founded Iowa Mold Tool, IMT Transport, and Stellar Industries. Garner now celebrates his legacy annually with Frances Zrostlik Day on August 14th, a tradition set to continue for generations. This episode is the first of a two-part series that will conclude with a discussion featuring Drew Larson, Partner at BrownWinick, exploring the motivations and advantages of their Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). Through Dave's insights, listeners gain a glimpse into how Frances not only built successful companies but also exemplified leadership by stewarding his family, employees, and community with care and dedication. Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/stellar-industries-part-1 

Send us a Text Message.The top rule from this human resources star? Good vibes only.Bethany Sobczak, Corporate Director of HR at Fitzgerald Auto Mall and 2023 Automotive News 40 Under 40 winner, brings a refreshing perspective to HR in the automotive industry. Her career might have started as car salesperson straight out of high school, but today, Bethany is spearheading Fitzgerald's transition to a 100% employee-owned company. She leverages her love for cars and people to cultivate a workplace culture that emphasizes transparency, trust, and shared success.In this episode, Bethany dives into the cultural shift that comes with an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), the rebranding of HR as a fun and supportive partner rather than just the rule enforcer, and how maintaining an optimistic mindset can transform even the most challenging situations.From her early days selling cars to managing HR for an organization of 4,000+ employees, Bethany shares how she balances the need for policy with a genuine love for people. Her insights into managing egos, encouraging proactive communication, and the importance of maintaining an employee-first culture show practically how to align business goals with employee well-being.Timestamped Takeaways0:00 - Intro with Paul J Daly, Kyle Mountsier and Michael Cirillo04:09 - Bethany shares how her early success in car sales led to a long-lasting passion for the automotive industry.08:00 - Bethany explains the decision behind Fitzgerald Auto Mall's shift to a 100% employee-owned model and how it's transforming company culture.10:07 - The cultural shift: How employee ownership has increased accountability and team cohesion across the organization.13:59 - Bethany discusses how her optimistic approach in HR helps her handle difficult situations and maintain a positive work environment, even when delivering bad news.15:36 - Rebranding HR: Bethany's mission to shift the perception of HR from the office “Grim Reaper” to a supportive, strategic partner in the workplace.17:21 - Bethany highlights why the automotive industry is the best place to be in HR, emphasizing the unique, fun culture that allows HR professionals to be themselves and connect more authentically with employees.19:00 - Managing egos in the car business: Bethany discusses how to leverage ego positively while maintaining a collaborative environment.22:03 - Proactive HR: The importance of training and relationship-building to prevent issues before they arise.Bethany Sobczak is the Corporate Director of Human Resources at Fitzgerald Auto Mall⭐️ Love the podcast? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your LinkedIn or Instagram handle so we can thank you personally! We have a daily email! https://www.asotu.com ✉️ Sign up for our free and fun-to-read daily email for a quick shot of relevant news in automotive retail, media, and pop culture.

In this episode, Erik Seeney, UBS Wealth Planning Strategist, is joined by Nick Francia and Keith Apton, of The Capitol ESOP Group at UBS, who share insights for business owners considering an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) as part of their exit planning strategy. From this episode you will gain a better understanding of: How Employee Stock Ownership Plan works for business owners, their employees, and families. The advantages of an Employee Stock Ownership Plan for flexibility, diversification, and tax strategy. The five characteristics of businesses that are good candidates for an Employee Stock Ownership Plan.

In today's interview, Carolyn talks with Rob Schamberg about his long service on the Community IT Board helping steer the company through the process to become employee-owned through the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) and to his recent retirement from the Board.Rob describes his career from his days as a college grad who loved technology and the outdoors, through teaching and becoming Principal and Superintendent at various California public schools, to joining the Forum for Youth Investment in Washington DC. It was at the Forum that he met Community IT folks, and was asked to serve on the board where he has been over a decade. After moving back to California near Lake Tahoe, he has now founded his own nonprofit to give students in Reno a chance to explore the wilderness activities all around them, Reno Inspiring Connections Outdoors.“The relationships that Community IT has with our customers are top-notch. I was just talking to somebody from another company, I didn't know he was with this company and I didn't know they were Community IT clients, and he said “we will stick with them because they are our partners in this.”” - Rob SchambergJoin us for our series featuring interviews with Community IT employees and board members. In this series, we talk about nonprofit technology career paths, career resources, skills, and certifications. We will also touch on mentoring opportunities as you start out on your career and ways to give back if you are further along. If you are wondering what it is like to work at a place like Community IT, you can learn about it here. https://communityit.com/careers/ _______________________________Start a conversation :) Register to attend a webinar in real time, and find all past transcripts at https://communityit.com/webinars/ email Carolyn at cwoodard@communityit.com on LinkedIn Thanks for listening.

The latest episode of THE EXIT Podcast, titled "Building Generational Wealth Through ESOPs," features host Brett Dearing, Certified Exit Planning Advisor and guest David Jasmund, Managing Director at PCE Investment Bank discussing the intricacies and advantages of selling a business to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). They delve into the benefits for shareholders, employees, and the company, highlighting tax advantages, stability, and potential generational wealth transfer. They explain the flexible nature of ESOP transactions, the financing options available, and the role of ERISA legislation in enabling these transitions.  The episode also emphasizes the governance of ESOP-owned companies and the financial incentives for both selling shareholders and employee participants. With 7,000 ESOP plans impacting 28 million employees in the U.S., the discussion provides crucial insights for business owners planning their succession.   Timestamp Overview: 00:00 Introduction: David Jasmund, Managing Director at PCE 04:56 Management buys out ownership, discusses employee stock ownership. 07:19 Succession planning for business ownership and factors. 11:03 ESOPs: wealth transfer, confidentiality, leadership, liquidity, secrecy. 16:28 ESOP transactions occur at fair market value. 18:35 ESOP trustee evaluates cash flows, distributes ownership. 22:27 ESOP trustee represents employee interest in company. 26:56 Sell shares to ESOP, defer tax, avoid gains. 29:53 Specialized lenders help structure ESOP financing. Private equity also participates in funding ESOPs. 31:23 Webinar covered key points on ESOP benefits. 37:23 ESOPs offer advantages for both employers, employees. 38:30 Open to discussing alternative business transaction options.   Want to learn more about the readiness of your business? Click on the link and begin maximizing business value:  https://www.busownxchange.com/THE-EXIT-Access-Attractiveness-Assessment   Apple iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-exit-podcast/id1308750295    

Get ready to uncover the secrets behind successful automotive recycling as Doug Williams, General Manager of Eagle Auto Parts, joins us to share his remarkable journey. From an 18-wheeler driver to the owner of an established yard, Doug recounts the rich history of Eagle Auto Parts, founded by Tom and Marie Beam in 1978. Discover how Doug transformed the business from a two-person operation to an 18-member team, even navigating the hurdles of COVID-19 with innovative hiring strategies and employee referrals.Learn how leveraging industry expertise can propel your business to new heights. Doug dives into the invaluable insights provided by consultants like DJ, Rob Rainwater, and Larry Leger, which helped train his sales team and optimize operations. He emphasizes the importance of strategic hiring and surrounding yourself with the right people to build a thriving enterprise. This episode is packed with practical advice for entrepreneurs, highlighting the dedication and passion needed to succeed in the automotive recycling industry.Finally, explore the transformative impact of Eagle Auto Parts' Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) and the URG Scholarship Foundation. Doug explains how the ESOP has fostered employee loyalty by making long-term staff part-owners, while the URG Scholarship Foundation supports the educational goals of employees and their families. With insights from recent industry conferences and conventions, Doug shares the benefits of networking, continuous learning, and staying updated on industry advancements. Tune in for a wealth of knowledge and inspiring stories from a leader committed to growth and innovation.

In this episode of What The Tech, VP of Client Services, Becky Cross, sits down with CEO, Adam Tubbs. Adam takes us behind the scenes of FIT's incredible journey to becoming an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) company. Discover how this transformative decision is empowering #TeamFIT, driving innovation, and fostering a culture of ownership and collaboration.

Herb, Eric, and Tasha gather in the Flywheel Studio to jump start Sargent ESOP Month with Price-Is-Right and discussions about owning the work you do as an employee-owner. Stay tuned to the On-Track Podcast all month long in May for opportunities to win prizes and educate yourself on the Sargent ESOP!Sargent's Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UnjywjsfMMAIf you liked this week's episode and are interested in becoming an Employee-Owner at Sargent, please visit our careers page on the Sargent website. https://sargent.us/apply/If you have an episode suggestion, please send your idea to:sbennage@sargent.us

Introduction:Welcome to our podcast focused on the latest trends, regulatory changes, and technological advancements shaping the furniture industry. This episode offers a comprehensive analysis from fluctuating interest rates impacting furniture sales to significant policy changes like the FTC's ban on non-compete agreements.Key Discussions:Interest Rates and Consumer Behavior:Discuss the profound effect of mortgage rates on furniture purchasing, highlighting divergent reactions among different age groups. Key data from Consumer Insights Now research illustrates how high interest rates are particularly influencing younger buyers like Gen Z and Millennials.FTC Regulation Changes:Explore the FTC's new rule prohibiting non-compete agreements, emphasizing its potential to foster job mobility and innovation within the furniture industry. Examine the criticism and potential challenges surrounding this landmark decision.Technological Innovations at Canton Fair:Highlight cutting-edge products showcased at the 135th China Import and Export Fair, emphasizing advancements in kitchen cabinet designs by Oppein Home Group and AI-integrated mattresses by Shenzhen Zhongshen Bedding Technology.Upholstery Trends at High Point Market:Analyze the evolution in upholstery, noting the transition from bouclé to other fabrics like mohair and faux fur. Discuss the trend towards more durable and versatile fabric options in furniture design.Product Safety and Recall:Address the recall of GhostBed mattresses due to flammability standards violations, underscoring the industry's focus on consumer safety and compliance with federal regulations.Employee Ownership at Room & Board:Delve into Room & Board's transition to a 100% Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), discussing its implications for corporate culture and employee engagement in the furniture sector.Leadership Changes at AndMore:Discuss the strategic executive shifts at AndMore, with a focus on new CEO Jonathan Pertchik's vision and the implications for the company's future direction.Preview of Proposte 2024:Preview the upcoming Proposte trade show dedicated to upholstery fabrics, highlighting its significance as a bellwether for industry trends and innovation.E-Commerce Strategies and Way Day Promotions:Evaluate the impact of Wayfair's annual Way Day event on the e-commerce landscape and consumer spending patterns, emphasizing aggressive discounting and promotional strategies.Industry Financial Performance:Analyze the financial downturns experienced by companies like Sleep Number and Ethan Allen Interiors, reflecting on the broader economic challenges impacting the furniture market.Conclusion:Recap the dynamic changes and innovative developments discussed in this episode, emphasizing how these elements contribute to the continuous adaptation and growth of the furniture industry. Encourage listeners to stay engaged with emerging trends that shape market opportunities and consumer preferences.

This week on In The Growth Space, David is Joined by Dan Zugell to discuss the topic of Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) which can bring enormous benefits to all parts of a company, especially when implemented correctly. Dan is a Senior Vice president at Business Transition Advisors, which is dedicated to assisting owners of closely held businesses with their business succession & liquidity planning objectives. Dan's experience includes the formation of MetLife's ESOP program and as a Director of MetLife's Institutional Specialized Benefit Resources division. Since 1998, Dan has emerged as a national presence on ESOP matters as a frequently published author and featured speaker.   In this episode, you'll hear David & Dan discuss: Understanding & Exploring ESOPs Leveraging ESOPs as an Exit Strategy The Community and Legacy Influence of ESOPs Empowering Family Businesses Connect with Dan the ESOP man here! Or call him - (724) 766-3998 Click here for access to my free ebook Check out https://www.davidmcglennen.com/podcasts/in-the-growth-space-2 for links, transcript, and more details  

In this episode of the Oilfield 360 Podcast, Wayne Cutrer, CEO of Downhole Chemical Solutions, shares his journey from growing up in Louisiana with deep family ties in oil and gas to founding and leading a pioneering chemical solutions company in the industry. Recorded at the Thrive Energy Conference in Houston, Texas, Wayne discusses the inception of Downhole Chemical Solutions during the challenging oil price crash of 2015, alongside his business partner, Chase Copeland. He highlights their innovative approach to slick water fluid systems and the development of proprietary dry friction reducer technology. Wayne also delves into the company's strategic decision to become employee-owned through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), fostering a transformative corporate culture of shared success and resilience. The episode illuminates Wayne's belief in the importance of people, teamwork, and the potential for future growth and consolidation in the oilfield chemical sector.

We discuss the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with Shawn Ely of Lazear.

From hiring previously incarcerated folks and those in addiction recovery to implementing an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), Gina Schaefer's story of entrepreneurship demonstrates what it can look like to understand and support the community you serve.When Gina moved into a forlorn neighborhood that needed a hardware store, she built one. When she thought the recovery community needed businesses to believe in them, she became one, and when she suggested that inequality could be helped with business ownership, she began selling hers to her team.Gina Schaefer is the Founder and Co-Owner of 13 hardware stores located in Washington, D.C., Baltimore, MD, and their suburbs. She and her team of 300 have helped millions of customers shop right where they live, in their urban communities, despite continuous pressure from bigger, stronger competitors.In her book, Recovery Hardware, Gina chronicles her experiences building a business while learning from non-traditional teachers like folks from the recovery community and returning citizens. She serves as an advocate and spokesperson for causes directly related to raising wages, anti-monopoly legislation and small business development.Gina serves as board chair for the Institute for Local Self-Reliance and is a member of CCA Global Partners' Board of Directors. She spent 9 years on the corporate board of Ace Hardware and 12 with the House of Ruth. Gina's guiding principle comes from a treasured quote “I always wondered when somebody would do something about that. Then I realized I was somebody”. Join Julie and Gina for a masterclass in resilience, adaptability, and community-centric business strategies.Identifying a Market Need and the Challenges of Business Growth (00:01:18)Gina's motivation for starting a hardware store, her role in supporting the recovery community, and the challenges of being a woman in the hardware store industry and having locations not succeed.The First Hardware Store (00:04:20)The process of bringing the idea of a hardware store to fruition, merchandising in a small store, and adapting to neighborhood needs..Scaling and Process Efficiency (00:12:00)The process of opening new stores and the learning curve in optimizing operations with each new location, as well as maintaining focus while expanding the business.Empowering store managers and ESOP structure (00:17:59)Empowering store managers to act as owners and the process and benefits of ESOP.Empathy and Inclusivity in Hiring (00:26:06)Gina shares her approach to hiring individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences.Philanthropy and Impact Investing (00:36:09)Gina explores her philanthropic efforts, impact investing initiatives, and her role in supporting causes and young entrepreneurs.Management lessons (00:37:49)Gina reflects on not asking enough questions about HR and finance, and her desire to help others avoid similar mistakes.You can connect with Gina on her website, LinkedIn and Instagram.You can connect with Julie on LinkedIn or Instagram. Find Julie's writing at her blog or by ordering Big Gorgeous Goals. What did you think of this conversation? We'd love if you'd rate or review our show!

Navigating the intricate journey of dental practice transition requires thoughtful planning and expert insight. In this compelling episode of The Dental Wealth Nation Show, host Tim McNeely welcomes Cary Fry, a seasoned transition planning strategist from Callamath Consulting Group, to delve into the crucial steps of transitioning your dental practice on your own terms. Cary Fry brings his extensive experience to the table, discussing the emotional, financial, and strategic facets of creating a successful exit plan. He highlights the significance of aligning personal goals, such as family time, with your practice exit strategy, rather than being swayed solely by unpredictable market conditions. Throughout the episode, Cary emphasizes the value of having a cohesive, elite team of professionals to streamline the business transition process. He shares his unique 7-step framework, tailored specifically for dental professionals looking to retire or transition their practice to new ownership, whether it's to family members, internal buyers, or through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). Listeners will gain insight into how market trends, economic fluctuations, and dental industry specific factors can influence their transition strategies. Cary and Tim touch on the importance of understanding your practice's valuation, reinforcing its attractiveness through value drivers such as motivated leadership, and building effective incentive structures for key employees. Moreover, Cary Fry addresses the hesitations and common challenges faced by dental practice owners, providing actionable advice on how to approach transition planning holistically. Discover why time is your ally in planning a successful exit and learn about the resources available to help you prepare for the future of your dental practice.   Discussion Questions: How can a dentist emotionally and mentally prepare for the significant change that comes with exiting their practice? In what ways do personal goals factor into the timing and methodology of transitioning out of a dental practice? Cary Fry highlights the importance of a coordinated team of professionals in the transition process. What are the key roles in such a team, and how do they collaborate effectively? Based on Cary Fry's 7-step framework for business transition, what are the initial steps a dentist should take when considering selling their practice? What challenges might a dental practice owner face when transitioning their business to insiders, such as family members or key employees, versus an outside buyer? Cary Fry talks about building incentive structures for key employees. What types of incentives should dental practice owners consider to enhance the value and attractiveness of their practice for a successful transition? Considering that many dentists lack a transition plan, what barriers might be preventing them from engaging in this critical planning? How can they be encouraged to take action? Given that economic conditions and market trends can impact a practice's transition strategy, how can a dentist stay informed and adapt their plans accordingly? What are some strategies for ensuring the continuity and stability of a dental practice post-sale, to protect the legacy and maintain the culture of the practice? How can a dental practice owner determine the right timing and approach for conducting a business valuation, and what steps should they take to close any identified value gaps?   Don't miss this insightful conversation if you're a dental professional aiming to maximize your practice's net worth, understand the intricate details of practice transition, or simply seeking guidance on how to begin the succession planning process. Tune in to transition on your terms and secure your Dental Wealth Nation legacy.

Gerry Scott chats with Sharon Conrad from Hanson Crossborder Tax about Restricted Stock Units (RSUs), Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) and Crossing Borders and Maximizing Investments: Navigating Your Finances.

 Welcome to The Exit Plan, a podcast for business owners interested in learning more about selling their business.  Doug Austin is the Author of Permission to Win, he spent most of his career building, growing, and selling ad agencies until he founded the Austin Amplifies which specializes in helping independent agencies find their next level.  In this episode, Doug Austin shares how, in 2008, he helped to build a successful agency network  in Missouri supporting the food service industry. It grew into three ad agencies and a product development firm including an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) and acquisition in 2015, Doug left in 2016. He also shares how he decided to be a consultant focusing on growth, innovation, and organizational culture as he enjoys connecting with agency professionals without the pressure of agency leadership. During his leadership, three competing agencies thrived with a strategy that balanced growth and operational independence. Doug also touches on his role in growing three competing agencies that focused on certain verticals which allowed separate leadership teams consisting of creative, account, and digital to lead authentically under a holding company umbrella. He also explains the meaning of The Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP) on which it enables business owners to slowly sell their business to employees. Furthermore, he shares how he does his job as a consultant, where he helps businesses prepare for sale by improving operations through focusing on management instead of selling. Regarding valuation, he assesses the business' financial health, operations, and profitability, and works closely with the client to determine a fair and accurate valuation using industry benchmarks and financial analysis.  Doug shares what he focuses on in his consultant career which are cultural, positioning, and experiential aspects of agencies. He specializes in understanding an agency's true selling proposition, value proposition, and factors influencing loyalty. He provides insights on necessary changes before selling by observing, asking targeted questions, and assessing market presence. Doug also emphasizes the importance of embracing Artificial Intelligence for traditional agencies. Adopting AI is vital for competitiveness, as those lagging behind risk commoditization of their services. Adaptation and collaboration with AI specialists are crucial for agencies to thrive in this evolving landscape. AI-specialized agencies, currently managing tools, could quickly transform into full-fledged agencies with strategic hires, requiring just a few key additions.  Learn more on how to widen your business, making it profitable and how a marketing consultant works.    Sign up to The Exit Plan mailing list: http://eepurl.com/iC8sIY   WHAT YOU WILL LEARN: How a consultant works and processes done in a business industry Understanding Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) How Artificial Intelligence affect businesses in this time era How proper positioning affects selling process Cybersecurity as an evaluation metrics Assessing and evaluating factors before selling   CONNECT WITH DOUG: LinkedIn | www.linkedin.com/in/doug-austin Company LinkedIn | www.linkedin.com/company/austin-amplifies Company Website | www.austinamplifies.com Book | Permission To Win   THE EXIT PLAN The Exit Plan is for business owners that are interested in learning more about how to sell their business. Each episode Barnaby Cook interviews someone who has bought or sold a business - either a creative agency, or a production company. The conversation gets under the skin of why they wanted to sell, or were looking to acquire, how the deal was structured, how they agreed upon a valuation and what lessons they learnt along the way.

Wayne Berson, CEO of BDO USA, joins Blake and guest host, David Leary, to discuss BDO's recent transition to an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP), making it the first major accounting firm to implement an ESOP structure. They discuss how the ESOP aims to attract and retain talent in the accounting profession and provide employees at all levels with an ownership stake in the firm.Chapters (00:44) - Why do an Employee Stock Ownership Plan(ESOP) now? (09:06) - BDO borrowed $1.3 billion - what is that money for? (14:52) - How will ESOP benefit staff? (19:06) - Is there a way to pull money out of the ESOP without leaving? (29:15) - How do you become a partner at BDO? (31:25) - What are my options when I'm a partner at BDO? (35:54) - What are your thoughts on the talent shortage and the 150-hour rule? (47:47) - What advice do you have for other firms thinking of becoming an ESOP? Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcasthttps://earmarkcpe.comDownload the Earmark CPE App Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.appConnect with Our Guest, Wayne BersonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wayneberson/Learn more about BDOWebsite: https://www.bdo.com/Connect with Blake Oliver, CPALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliverTwitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Herb Sargent is a leader who truly exemplifies what it means to run an impact-driven business. In this episode, Herb returns to the podcast to explain how he's built Sargent Corporation into a business focused on “building people.” He shares how creating an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) has allowed him to focus on making sure this business outlives him, and he offers practical advice about developing leaders, avoiding siloing within a large company, and planning your exit strategy. To learn more from Herb, join us in Asheville for our “Leading Leaders” experience this October!  Today we're talking with Herb Sargent, CEO of Sargent Corporation (0:35) How has Path for Growth contributed to your own growth? (5:47) What does it look like to have “building people” as your purpose? (13:57) Why are you so passionate about building people? (23:39) What is an ESOP, and why did you decide to set one up? (29:09) How have you kept the company from being siloed? (38:02) When and how should owners start thinking about their exit strategies? (42:05) What kinds of businesses might be a good fit for an ESOP? (47:41) Join the Path for Growth in-person experience to learn more from Herb (49:01) Helpful Links and Resources Path for Growth Membership Path for Growth One-on-One Coaching Sign up for the Worth It Wednesday Email Learn more about the 2023 Path for Growth Experience – Leading Leaders Download the Free Reading Guide Sargent Corporation Website Sargent: On Track Podcast Listen to Herb's first Path for Growth Episode Join Path for Growth on Instagram for more content.

Today I have the pleasure of speaking with Phillip Hayes, Succession Planning Partner of Berman Hopkins. Phillip joined the Berman Hopkins team in 2000 and became the Succession Planning Partner in 2006. In 2010, he was named Managing Partner. He transitioned his role as Managing Partner in 2020 to pursue his passion as the full-time leader of the firm's Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) practice and launched "The ESOP Guy" podcast, which explains the process of the ESOP transaction from a business owner's perspective.  Phillip has over 30 years of experience in finance and business consulting. In addition to directing Berman Hopkins' strategic efforts, he is a Certified Valuation Analyst through the National Association of Certified Valuators and Analysts. Phillip provides consulting services for a variety of business industries. In this episode, we will be discussing: Why move into the ESOP journey Valuation of an architecture practice How to determine whether an ESOP is for you   To learn more about Phillip join his: Website: https://www.bermanhopkins.com/ Podcast: https://www.journeytoanesop.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bermanhopkins LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bermanhopkinscpas/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/bermanhopkins?lang=en   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/ZLyWqhJ4xURgVuhD0kyN0tv2ZQE?utm_source=copy_url   ► Feedback? Email us at podcast@businessofarchitecture.com   ► Access your free training at http://SmartPracticeMethod.com/   ► If you want to speak directly to our advisors, book a call at https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/call   ► Subscribe to my YouTube Channel for updates:   https://www.youtube.com/c/BusinessofArchitecture   *******   For more free tools and resources for running a profitable, impactful, and fulfilling practice, connect with me on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessofarchitecture Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enoch.sears/ Website: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/BusinessofArch Podcast: http://www.businessofarchitecture.com/podcast iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-architecture-podcast/id588987926 Android Podcast Feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/BusinessofArchitecture-podcast Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9idXNpbmVzc29mYXJjaGl0ZWN0dXJlLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz   *******   Access the FREE Architecture Firm Profit Map video here: http://freearchitectgift.com   Download the FREE Architecture Firm Marketing Process Flowchart video here: http://freearchitectgift.com   Come to my next live, in-person event: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/live   Carpe Diem!

Aug 28, 2023 – As millions of baby boomers retire and sell their businesses, one method is gaining traction: the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). Why? Well, there are a few different benefits but one of the biggest is due to its potential tax...

The podcast episode highlights the significant growth of Wescom's electrical division in the Permian Basin, expanding from a small group to approximately 35 electricians.Success in the division is attributed to structured growth, achieving milestones, and strategically placing the right personnel in key roles.The oil and gas industry's ever-changing nature demands a flexible leadership approach, with adaptability to varying departmental needs being crucial.Wescom's transition to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) is discussed, clarifying that daily operations remain unaffected by the change in ownership structure.Joey Croce receives recognition for his adept leadership, particularly in the growth of the Permian team and his ability to navigate challenges.The episode underscores the importance of asking questions to facilitate learning and effective decision-making throughout the organization.

In this episode, Nathan and Michael discuss an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), which can allow business owners to sell their company in a way that saves on taxes. An ESOP is a very articulate plan that can have benefits for your future generations. Learn more about employee stock ownership plans in this educational and entertaining episode.

Bret Keisling is joined by Jennifer Krieger of Weaver [weaver.com] who shares about Weaver's acquisition of Columbia Financial Advisors, Inc., splitting her time between Oklahoma and Texas, and welcoming (with husband Sean) a baby girl on New Year's Day. Weaver's transaction with Columbia Financial Advisors, Inc. (CFAI), effective February 1, 2023, expands Weaver's presence along the West Coast and continues the emergence of Valuation Services as a national practice. This deal also adds two partners, one managing director and seven other professionals to Weaver's team. Founded in 1992 in Portland, Oregon, CFAI is a nationally recognized business valuation firm with a significant focus on Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)-owned companies. A link to the Weaver-CFAI press release along with a full transcript of this episode are available on our website at https://www.theesoppodcast.com/post/mini-cast-232-jenn-krieger-an-acquisition-a-transition-and-a-baby

Agriculture is the biggest industry in Missouri and its importance to feeding the world is enormous. In addition to growing crops for food and fiber, storage and distribution are vital tasks in the process. Our guest today has been producing for nearly 50 years grain bins that enable farmers to store their produce until they're ready to sell. Bub Caldwell is the President of W. B. Young, Missouri's premier grain handling specialist since 1959. In this episode, Bub shares the story of how W. B. Young was founded, his evolving role over the years, and how he has grown the business by paying attention to what's going on in the world, building relationships and taking care of his customers and employees. He also describes how he is transitioning his business and rewarding his loyal employees through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) and how that works.   

In this episode of The Power Producers Podcast, David Carothers and guest co-host Josh Gurley interview Micah Salas, Senior Vice President of Christensen Group Insurance, and author of The Business Insurance Playbook. Micah discusses his marketing and educational book for business owners and explains what motivated him to join Christensen Group Insurance, a 100% employee owned agency. Episode Highlights: Micah discusses the history of Christensen Group Insurance and how it functions as an employee owned agency with an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). (3:14) Josh shares that he was surprised to learn that there are only 11,000 ESOP's in the country. (6.:54) Micah talks about his book "The Business Insurance Playbook" which was written with the goal of being a marketing and instructional book for business owners. (12:37) David considers himself to be a walking mashup of insurance knowledge from a variety of people, and the more people he speaks to who are mutually connected, the more sources of that information he identifies. (20:34) Micah believes that there is sometimes a stigma associated with discussing insurance costs. (29:17) Josh mentions that one of the nicest things about the insurance industry is that people can choose their clients. (41:48) David explains why it's important to have a clear idea of your ideal client. (45:21) Micah shares that 95% of his content is geared toward the buyer and that this past year was the first time it monetized for him in terms of real revenue. (53:07) Tweetable Quotes: “If you find yourself in a book that you just don't really love, it's a good opportunity to build back how you want to build it.” - Micah Salas “It's a hard game out there man. People are fighting tooth and nail for new business...But I know in the long run, that if you stick to your method, it is what's best for the buyer and it's just as important. It's what's best for you and your team.” - Micah Salas “If you're going to bank on LinkedIn for getting rich or build a million dollar book, you're probably going to be poor and out of a job, but it's an awesome addition to your arsenal for sure.” - Micah Salas Resources Mentioned: Micah Salas LinkedIn Book: The Business Insurance Playbook Christensen Group Insurance David Carothers Josh Gurley Florida Risk Partners The Extra 2 Minutes

In this episode of The Power Producers Podcast, David Carothers and guest co-host Josh Gurley interview Micah Salas, Senior Vice President of Christensen Group Insurance, and author of The Business Insurance Playbook. Micah discusses his marketing and educational book for business owners and explains what motivated him to join Christensen Group Insurance, a 100% employee-owned agency. Episode Highlights: Micah discusses the history of Christensen Group Insurance and how it functions as an employee-owned agency with an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). (3:14) Josh shares that he was surprised to learn that there are only 11,000 ESOP's in the country. (6.:54) Micah talks about his book "The Business Insurance Playbook" which was written with the goal of being a marketing and instructional book for business owners. (12:37) David considers himself to be a walking mashup of insurance knowledge from a variety of people, and the more people he speaks to who are mutually connected, the more sources of that information he identifies. (20:34) Micah believes that there is sometimes a stigma associated with discussing insurance costs. (29:17) Josh mentions that one of the nicest things about the insurance industry is that people can choose their clients. (41:48) David explains why it's important to have a clear idea of your ideal client. (45:21) Micah shares that 95% of his content is geared toward the buyer and that this past year was the first time it monetized for him in terms of real revenue. (53:07) Tweetable Quotes: “If you find yourself in a book that you just don't really love, it's a good opportunity to build back how you want to build it.” - Micah Salas “It's a hard game out there man. People are fighting tooth and nail for new business...But I know in the long run, that if you stick to your method, it is what's best for the buyer and it's just as important. It's what's best for you and your team.” - Micah Salas “If you're going to bank on LinkedIn for getting rich or build a million dollar book, you're probably going to be poor and out of a job, but it's an awesome addition to your arsenal for sure.” - Micah Salas Resources Mentioned: Micah Salas LinkedIn Book: The Business Insurance Playbook Christensen Group Insurance David Carothers Josh Gurley Florida Risk Partners The Extra 2 Minutes

The next generation of culinary artisans are changing up the industry. These artisans have a whole new approach to reaching and satisfying the next generation consumer. In this podcast we will explore chefs and artisans from around the world diving into their story and passion. In this episode of Chef AF, I chat with Justin Cucci, Chef and Owner of Edible Beats Restaurant Group about being born into the industry, farm-to-table dining and opening a restaurant in an abandoned mid-century gas station. Cucci was introduced to the restaurant industry through his family's restaurant Waverly Inn in New York City. Cucci says, “I was lucky enough to be born into the industry in a way. My grandparents owned a restaurant in New York for about 35 years and my parents worked there, so I really got to be there from the time I could walk.”There was a point in Cucci's culinary career that he felt like he wanted something more, he headed West to Denver and discovered a building while driving through a neighborhood. Cucci shares, it was a mid-century gas station. It had been abandoned for a number of years, but it was just a beautiful core building. And so I approached the landlord, the building owner, and pitched them on the idea. I was literally like a month into town, so nobody knew who I was and he took a risk on me and it became the first restaurant.” Root Down was the first restaurant Cucci opened in Denver. Cucci went on to make his mark in Denver with his local, seasonal and sustainable vegetable-forward menus, opening another five restaurants after Root Down including Linger, El Five, Vital Root, Root Down DIA, and Ophelia's Electric Soapbox all under the Edible Beats Restaurant Group umbrella. Operating a sustainable business is something Cucci is extremely passionate about. In the back of Vital Root restaurant they've installed a shipping container that is a self-sustaining hydroponic farm called the FarmBox. He says, “we're going to be growing food about ten feet behind the restaurant, which to me there's nothing more local and more sustainable than growing food in your backyard.”In February 2022 Cucci implemented a self funded, 100% Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) for his staff, which gives Edible Beats employees an ownership stake in the business. To hear more details on the FarmBox and the employee stock ownership plan plus the details of Cucci's book The Edible Beat: 60 Recipes of Chef Empowerment, Humor & Human Centric Mojo and his top 3 umami flavor bombs check out this episode of Chef AF “It's All Food” or you can listen at Spotify!

Clean Scapes was founded in 2005 and quickly became the fastest-growing company in Central Texas. We have since opened additional locations in San Antonio, Dallas, Houston, and Fort Worth. Our founders were driven by a lifetime working in, and passion for the commercial landscape industry. With a unique understanding of the value of quality labor, we recognize that our employees are critical to the continued success of our clients' projects, and therefore Clean Scapes. As such, in 2021, we transitioned to a 100% employee-owned company through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). Today, we are the largest commercial landscape company based in Texas with nearly $100M in revenue expected in 2022. We are Texas' most trusted commercial landscape partner, working on some of the most high-profile and complex projects in the region.

Leading an employee-owned company doesn't necessarily mean all the employees think like owners. Today's guest, Ken Misiewicz, is the President and CEO of Pleune Service Company, an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) company.  On this episode of The Clarity Advisors Show, Ken and host Ken Trupke talk about the unique challenges of running an employee-owned company, building trust throughout the organization, and staying relevant across multiple generations. They also discuss the importance of conveying important information logically while also connecting emotionally. Episode Highlights: How to build and maintain an employee-owned company.Listening skills are key for making improvements within the company.Building trust is vital for maintaining a cohesive team.Generational changes are important for a leader to consider.Timestamps:[01:02] Ken Misiewicz's rise through the ranks.[02:19]  Ken Misiewicz's  current team structure.[03:56] The challenges of employee-owned companies.[06:37] Having a dedicated safety manager.[08:18]  Ken Misiewicz's  lessons from building a team as CEO.[09:25] The challenge of making changes.[11:00] The importance of leading with the human element.[12:33] How to gather and process negative feedback within the company.[15:33] To improve listening skills, the mindset is continuous improvement.[17:00] Building up trust consistently over time.[18:31] Employee-owned vs. non-employee-owned companies.[20:13]  Ken Misiewicz's  advice for new leaders.[23:13] Encouraging people to push back against conventional thinking about going into the trades.[25:36]  Ken Misiewicz's go-to advice.[27:29]  Ken Misiewicz , the continual learner.Episode Quotes:“The values have to be aligned and the motivators have to be aligned. You can't force people to your way of thinking.” (Ken Misiewicz) “You don't want to get so far out there that there's nobody with you.” (Ken Misiewicz)“Right now, the mindset needs to be more inclusive and not tribal.” (Ken Misiewicz)“You grow as you go.” ( Ken Misiewicz)Episode Resources: Atomic Habits, by James Clear. Follow/Connect with Ken Misiewicz:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenmisiewicz

Local Tucson community advocate and philanthropist Howard N. Stewart is Mark's special guest in this episode. Howard is a recipient of the Tucson Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Legacy Award, Mark discusses what that means to Howard and why.About ~ HOWARD N. STEWART In 1970, AGM was founded by Howard's parents, Roger and Joyce Stewart. The following year, at only 12 years of age, Howard began working at AGM for “the princely sum” of just $1.00 an hour. He continued to work at AGM almost every summer until 1982. In 1989, Howard returned to AGM in the position of “junior purchasing clerk”. In the year 2000, Howard was named AGM's President/CEO. In 2002, the Tucson Metro Chamber named Howard as Tucson's Small Business Leader of the Year. In 2009, under Howard's leadership, AGM was recognized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce as "America's Best Small Business", beating out over 4,500 other contenders for this distinction. To date, AGM remains the only Arizona business to have ever received this distinction from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. In 2018, Howard was named Southern Arizona's CEO of the Year. In 2021, the Arizona Commerce Authority, in concert with the Arizona Technology Council, jointly named Howard as “Arizona's Transformational Leader of the Year. ABOUT AGM CONTAINER CONTROLS INC. Founded in 1970, AGM is a supplier of pressure, moisture, and logistics management hardware that is beneficial to our nation's aerospace & defense industry. As a result of the passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act, in 1992, Ascension, a division of AGM, entered the wheelchair lift market, whereby AGM has become the designer and manufacturer of the world's best wheelchair lifts for the public facilities and commercial space markets. Furthermore, in the year 2022, Ascension, became the exclusive North American distributor for a new product called the Omeo personal mobility (wheelchair) device, which is already beginning to change the way many people with disabilities are leading their lives. As such, the Omeo's unique, self-balancing technology enables its users to reclaim their independence and interact with the world around them in a revolutionary new way. Headquartered in Tucson, Arizona, AGM is a proud, American-owned manufacturing company, which has established an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), such that AGM's employees have become employee-owners who own a significant portion of our organization. In fact, such employee-owners have helped AGM Management to drive up the value of our organization by roughly 2,400% in the last 27 years. Moreover, AGM aspires to be a model, principled company, whereby we do our best to provide for the needs of our employee-owners and their families, as well as to enable such employees to fulfill their personal goals through increasingly rewarding career opportunities and continuing education. Howard N. Stewart President/CEO AGM Container Controls 3544 E Fort Lowell Rd, Tucson, AZ 85716 (520) 462-0912

Retirement, it's something we are all working towards, but something that many throughout the United States are not prepared for. In today's workforce, there's a retirement crisis happening. Too many people throughout our country are not saving what they need to retire comfortably – and this isn't just a problem for employees, it's a problem, it's a problem for employees too. On this episode, we have two great guests, Randy Feenstra and Congresswoman Ashley Hinson, both Representatives from the state of Iowa and both sponsoring the SECURE Act 2.0. Listen in as they talk with host, Gene Marks, about the SECURE Act 1.0, the SECURE Act 2.0, the Mainstreet Tax Certainty Act, and what's on the horizon for retirement planning in the U.S. Topics Include: 01:04 – Introducing Congressman Randy Feenstra 01:42 – SECURE Act 1.0 04:19 – What the SECURE Act from 2019 offers 05:31 – Pooled Employer Plan (PEP) 06:41 – Retirement as an employee benefit 07:51 – Changes in the SECURE Act 2.0 12:22 – Tax credit for military spouses 13:11 – Tax incentives for Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) 16:06 – Expectations for Bipartisan support of SECURE Act 2.0 17:57 – Introducing Congresswoman Ashley Hinson 21:08 – The benefit to employers 22:22 – Automatic enrollment 23:56 – Additional provisions to SECURE Act 2.0 27:19 – Main Street Tax Certainty Act 31:35 – Emergency Savings Account Act Read more information about the SECURE Act 2.0 at www.paychex.com/articles/compliance/secure-act-changes. Get a refresher course in retirement planning at www.paychex.com/articles/employee-benefits/retirement-planning-101-for-business-owners. DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.  

“This is the company that really changed the access the rest of the United States had to get fresh, leafy greens.”   Lori Taylor (5:28-5:35)   Even though Tanimura & Antle wasn't “officially” launched until 1982, the families that make up this incredible fresh produce team have a legacy that stems from 100 years of growing experience. The Tanimura family and Antle family lived 40 miles apart from each other, with the Tanimura family emigrating from Japan and the Antle family migrating to California from Oklahoma during the Dust Bowl in the 1920's. During World War Two, the Antle family agreed to watch over the Tanimura's land while some of the Tanimura family was placed in internment camps and two of the brothers fought in the war.  When the war was over, the two families had an unmatched partnership and bond and decided to join forces; the Tanimuras growing the lettuce and the Antles marketing and selling it under their brand.     What started as a relationship between two families with a love for produce has now grown into a global company with 30,000 acres on the west coast, 7,000 employees annually, and sales across the Nation and internationally. Brian Antle, who got his start on the farm at the ripe age of 14 when he would get paid to move sprinkler pipes (a vital part of irrigation), jokes that “the plan was to get to 100,000 cases of produce a week.”  The company now sells almost 140,000 boxes a day and about 40 million cases a year!   Tanimura & Antle's core products are iceberg lettuce, romaine, red and green leaf, cauliflower, broccoli and celery. They also have organic produce, greenhouse grown produce, and an Artisan line of products that are uniquely branded for their different taste profiles, colors, qualities and crunchability. The Artisan family of specialty produce includes their Artisan Lettuce, Artisan Romaine, Artisan Sweet Gem, Artisan Baby Iceberg, Artisan Sweet Red Onions and Artisan Sweet Broccoli.   “They were the first company that put iceberg lettuce on a rail car on ice and shipped it from California to New York City and it arrived fresh. From there, as they say, the rest is history.” Lori Taylor (5:45-5:56)   The cool thing about Tanimura & Antle is the many ‘firsts' the company has ignited for the produce industry. Their family was the first to pack and wrap a head of lettuce in cellophane. They were also the first to use cardboard boxes and cool produce in vacuum cooling tubes prior to shipping, allowing the entire produce industry to move away from needing to ice everything and use rail cars.  Speaking of innovation, Tanimura & Antle even breeds their own seed genetics! The company can tailor their lettuce, to have a certain color, size or taste. They can also breed plants to become more resistant to certain disease or mildew pressures. Innovations in seed genetics ultimately allows Tanimura & Antle to harvest more product for consumption and decrease food waste at the field level. This is all done through natural plant breeding, none of these seeds are genetically modified organisms (GMOs).  Tanimura & Antle truly strives to find sustainability in every corner of their operations!     Another innovative practice of the company is the use of automated technology. Tanimura & Antle has a group of diversified businesses, one of those being Stout, a company focused on “smart farm equipment”. With the cost and shortages of skilled agricultural labor, farmers are being challenged with doing more with less every day. Tanimura & Antle is investing in machines that can help supplement these labor shortages, such as machines that eliminate weeds in the field using artificial intelligence and computer vision systems. Machines like this will allow farmers to [AP1] utilize the employees in areas of agricultural production that cannot be automated, such as harvesting or operating these new machines.  While this type of innovation can sometimes be viewed as eliminating jobs, they're not.  Innovations like this allow farmers to supplement the shortages within their work force in order to continue to feed the world.    “The ground is the most valuable asset we have next to our employees. Without either one, there is no sustainability.” Brian Antle (29:16-29:23)   One key to Tanimura & Antle's success is how much they value the ground they grow on. They're constantly rotating their crops and focus on keeping the ground healthy. Without healthy soil, they know they cannot grow a healthy crop. Tanimura & Antle views their employees as their #1 asset.  They ensure their employees are taken care of by providing things like a low cost employee housing complex, access to full health benefits, a matched 401k and one of the their proudest innovations, an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).  They were one of the first major grower shippers to adopt an ESOP in the United States!  In 2017, the Tanimura and Antle families made the decision to make their employees official business partners and sold a portion of the company to the employees, creating the ESOP.  The ESOP allows employees to earn ownership stocks of the company through years of service and loyalty to the company.   When it comes to enjoying their produce, make sure to try one of their Artisan or Greenhouse Grown vegetables. You can find Tanimura & Antle in most major grocery retailers across North America, and if not, be sure to ask your local produce manager to put Tanimura & Antle's branded items on your grocery store shelf!  How to get involved Join The Produce Moms Group on Facebook and continue the discussion every week!  Reach out to us - we'd love to hear more about where you are in life and business! Find out more here.    If you liked this episode, be sure to subscribe and leave a quick review on iTunes. It would mean the world to hear your feedback and we'd love for you to help us spread the word!

This week's podcast is about my discussion with Abel Deng, the CEO of Huawei Thailand. And about how the next generation of digital infrastructure is developing in SE Asia.You can listen to this podcast here or at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is my new book:Moats and Marathons (Part 1): How to Build and Measure Competitive Advantage in Digital Businesses Kindle Edition ———Related articles:Huawei Is Going to Beat Trump with Human Resources, Not Technology (Pt 1 of 3)Huawei's Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) is “Meritocracy Plus Partnership” at Scale in China Tech. (Pt 2 of 3)From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:Role of the StateEconomies of ScaleSMILE Marathon: Sustained InnovationFrom the Company Library, companies for this article are:Huawei———-Support the show (https://jefftowson.com)

The proposed tax provisions in the Biden Administration's American Families Plan could provide substantial incentives for business owners to discuss the creation of an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). In this episode of Taxes in Ten, Joe Bublé is joined by Citrin Cooperman Trust & Estate Practice Leader Howard Klein to learn more about ESOPs, including: An overview of what an ESOP is including financial and non-financial benefits, the common misconceptions about ESOPs, and how the current tax proposals make an ESOP more attractive. Taxes in 10 brought to you by Citrin Cooperman. Learn more Citrin Cooperman at www.citrincooperman.com/ Learn more about our host Joe Bublé here: www.citrincooperman.com/professionals/joe-buble

The company currently has around 150 active projects spread across different regions, each of which has its own Vice President of Finance. A financial reporting group accumulates data from all of these regions each month.Listen in as Kris speaks on the finance side of running a large commercial contractor that she has had the pleasure of working for over the past 15 years. She describes how contracts are negotiated and why she expects field staff to have a high level of financial acumen to run the business that is their construction project. She also explains how McCarthy's employees are able to literally own a part of the company via their ESOP.Finally, Kris shares her experience finding success as a woman in a male-dominated industry and how she balances her immense responsibilities at work with time at home with her husband and six kids.Topics Discussed: [00:44] How often Kris evaluates the company's performance financially[03:46] How McCarthy acquires new projects and negotiates budgets with clients[17:04] The most important metrics to track when looking at the overall balance sheet[19:42] Dealing with slow-paying clients and building those relationships[25:51] Why field staff should have an extensive understanding of the financials[27:59] How incentives for all involved parties are decided on[31:16] Deciding who to assign to different projects[34:58] Monitoring the sweep account[38:02] Managing the complex multi-region company structure from a cash perspective[43:14] The challenges of working with unions[45:03] The purpose of McCarthy's Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)[51:34] Finding success as a woman in the male-dominated industry of construction[56:56] How Kris achieves work-life balance with a demanding career and a large familyConnect with Kristine Newman & McCarthy Building Company:Website Instagram (Kristine Newman) Instagram (McCarthy) Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Connect with Brad Leavitt of AFT Construction:Website Instagram Facebook Houzz Pinterest YouTube Key Quotes from Episode:One of the things that makes us successful is this mindset of continuous improvement and learning from past projects and past situations. They're never identical, but there are always lessons to pull through from various scopes of work.We think of every one of our projects as a small business. We expect our superintendents and project managers to have a high level of financial acumen to run the business, not just build.Every single day, our projects are trying to kill someone. What we do is really, really humbling. We build America, and it's risky; not just financially—it's risky from a safety standpoint as well.Male or female, finding an edge in your career is all about relationships, personalities, and communication.Find someone to emulate, male or female. What characteristics of that leader do you want to become, and how do you go about developing yourself and finding those blind spots within yourself to meet that?

Siapa yang tidak tahu kumparan.com? Sebuah perusahaan platform media kolaboratif pertama yang menerapkan jurnalisme berbasis teknologi di Indonesia. Hanya dalam waktu 1 tahun sejak diluncurkan pada 2017, kumparan melakukan program yang cukup mengejutkan bagi sebuah perusahaan: menawarkan kepemilikan saham untuk Pekerja atau Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) pada April 2018. https://kumparan.com/kumparanbisnis/kumparan-serahkan-porsi-saham-untuk-karyawan Lantas, mengapa kumparan melangsungkan ESOP? Bagaimana proses pelaksanaannya? Apa dampak dari program tersebut? Untuk menjawab pertanyaan diatas, mari simak rekaman DisKo Pekerja #04 berikut antara: - Andrias Ekoyuono, Chief of Corporate Strategy kumparan - M. Bima Luphdika, Moderator dari Gapatma *DisKo Pekerja adalah program diskusi bulanan yang diselenggarakan oleh Gapatma untuk membahas topik seputar koperasi pekerja. Apabila ada topik menarik yang ingin diangkat menjadi sebuah diskusi, silahkan hubungi Mindem di IG ya! #demokrasiekonomi #koperasipekerja #ESOP

On this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Delcie Bean, CEO of Paragus Strategic IT. Delcie Bean started the company that became Paragus when he was only 13 years old. Although he didn't flourish in the traditional school environment, he found great success in entrepreneurship at an incredibly young age. By his high school years, Delcie's business required an office space and employees of its own to meet client demand. Today, Paragus has become one of the most successful, fastest-growing IT firms in the region and was named a 2020 Forbes Small Giant: Best Small Companies in America. Over the years, Delcie has worked hard to build a culture defined by fostering fun for employees and customers, a spirit of transparency, and humility. But that has also meant making tough decisions about transitioning out people who no longer fit the culture, and knowing when the organization has outgrown its talent. Delcie also believes in giving back to his employees: Paragus has a unique Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) structure that puts ownership of 40 percent of the company in the hands of its 50-plus employees.  In this episode, hear Delcie's (very) early experiences in entrepreneurship and how he built the award-winning culture at Paragus today. Plus, hear Paul and Delcie discuss the hardest failure Delcie has ever lived through and what he learned from it.  

Are you thinking about an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) or wondering how they work? Susan Moser, Partner, and John Carpenter, Principal, in Cherry Bekaert’s Government Contractor Services Group discuss ESOPs, including the top 5 reasons an ESOP makes sense, the challenges in becoming an ESOP and common myths and questions asked from government contractors considering an ESOP.

Tim Bollinger is the CEO of MVE Group which delivers quality electrical, energy, and security solutions to meet the unique needs of its customers (businesses, government agencies, and homeowners). They attribute success to small business roots, where hard work, unique skills, and the creative ideas of their staff have allowed them to develop long-lasting relationships with satisfied customers. The company began in 1973 as Meadow Valley Electric, an electrical contracting firm, and has grown to include ESCO (1984) commercial and home security and fire protection systems; KWReduction (1999) energy-saving lighting solutions; and MVE Solar (2009) solar PV systems. In 2011, the companies united under a single corporation, MVE Group, and their employees became employee-owners through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). Top takeaways:- Defining and developing servant leadership- How to construct a team that works together from the start- Going forward with biblical values Episode Highlights:[00:00] Intro to Tim’s background[03:23] Learning to work together as a team while making transitions[04:45] Servant leadership from a biblical standpoint[06:25] How he devoured tons of business books[07:25] Tips on learning leadership through self-study[08:45] How to overcome difficult times in business[10:53] Ways to pushing the core values out there[12:42] Freedom to make mistakes.[13:56] Applying faith foundation that helped[16:43] Skills needed to run the business for long term[19:46] Identifying what is your purpose for wanting to be a leader[22:15] Why he decided to go to a more traditional model[24:16] Methods to cut back on employees when needed[27:04] Understand the need for leadership potential within that structure Stand-Out Quotes: “Servant leadership is really putting my employees first. And one of our mantras within our core values is after each of the areas we say, do not make the bottom line the most important thing.” [08:19] “My life verse is Galatians 2:20 I've been crucified with Christ. I no longer live, but Christ lives in me and the life that I now live, I live by faith in the son of God. And so, you know, as a surrendered child of God “ [12:23] Connect:https://www.mvegroup.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-bollinger-06347514/

Amid one of the most competitive job markets in history, A/E/C firm leadership are ready to consider any tool that may give them an advantage when it comes to recruitment, retention, and alignment of individual performance with firm performance. As the number of employee stock ownership plans (ESOP) has decreased, and the number of employees covered by them has increased, Bob Jack feels that with the right leadership, ESOP can lead to “a special employee ownership culture.” Author of Increasing Firm Competitive Advantage Through Use of an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), Jack offers insight on how design firms can gain employee commitment, a takeover defense strategy, a plan for succession strategy, and a foundation for a good corporate culture. By attending this podcast, you will learn… -What is it like to go from publicly-traded to employee owned? - How well does worker enterprise and capitalism motivate employees? - Can you gain Millennial commitment through ESOPs? - Communicating the rewards of retirement distributions. We also talk with Jackie Shufelberger of Bartlett & West whose small firm is a successful mature ESOP. About the Presenter: Bob Jack career includes 24 years with global engineering and construction company Parsons Corporation in Pasadena, CA. Jack holds a BA in Economics from California State University at Los Angeles and earned an MBA from Azusa Pacific University and Masters of Science in Advanced Management from Claremont Graduate University’s Drucker School.

Frank Fiume II is a pioneer in the youth sports industry and the founder of i9 Sports—the leading franchise of youth leagues and camps in the U.S. Since 2003, i9 Sports has generated more than $300 million in sales, with 2 million participants in 900 communities across 30 states nationwide. A baseball fanatic and native of Queens, New York, Frank graduated from St. John’s University and began a career as a medical equipment sales rep, though he was determined to pursue his life’s true purpose. So in l995, he created his own adult men’s softball league, ABA Sports. The start-up company quickly grew to over 900 teams in just six years, making it the largest adult sports organization on Long Island. In 2003, Frank sold ABA in order to create i9 Sports, a business that catapulted him to national recognition and that Entrepreneur magazine ranked as the #1 children’s fitness franchise. Frank has been featured on Fox Business News, HBO Real Sports, and in dozens of publications and national news media outlets, including USA Today, Sports Illustrated, and The Wall Street Journal. Frank sold i9 Sports in 2017 to a private equity firm, but remains a minority shareholder and member of the board of directors. In today’s conversation with us, Frank shares how he built the nation’s most successful youth sports franchise and what he learned while creating a movement that has inspired 2 million participants in 30 states nationwide. What We Discuss With Frank Fiume II The power of purpose and following your dream How to overcome the dark days while you’re growing your franchise and movement Why franchising is a powerful model for expanding your movement quickly How to use social media as a franchise How to build wealth for your employees through an ESOP When to know when it’s time to move on to your next venture Key Takeaways I wanted to create something that was all about fun, safety, convenience and brought families together to create great memories. Find mentors who can share their knowledge with you and provide the motivation you need to keep going. You have to have a strong why, especially to get you through those tough dark days of growing your franchise and leading your movement. You’ll always do more for other people than you will for yourself. My wife and I have a mantra, which is to live with no regrets. That means we do what we think is right, even if it’s scary. It shuts off all excuses and you just go for it. I chose franchising because I wasn’t yet comfortable hiring people all over the country and I wanted to expand rapidly. I didn’t have a lot of capital at the time, so using other people’s investment capital as a way of expanding my business was a great vehicle to use. Plus you can grow faster. However the people in your franchise system are not all going to believe in your vision. So you have to constantly gain their buy-in to believe in your vision, and follow your rules, systems and processes. In franchising, you’re also going to be giving up some of the revenue, but you also don’t have the same amount of expenses and issues that occur at the franchise level. You want to have a franchising consultant not just a regular lawyer setting it up. Because you don’t know what you don’t know. Having a franchise attorney is the second piece to the puzzle. There are way too many individual state-specific laws for the franchising industry, and they’re changing so quickly that you want a lawyer who knows what they’re doing. Recruiting franchisees is going to be mostly internet-based, through franchise portals, Facebook ads, franchise boards and other avenues. On recruiting – just because someone like football or played football doesn’t mean they should own a football business. They must be able to apply business acumen to it. We didn’t have social media early on, so the #1 thing we did was to make sure that our employees were at the fields regularly – to feel and remember why we do what we do. When you build your organization, you aspire to have a great management team around you. Fortunately I did that. What nobody told me was that when that happens, I found myself not needed anymore. I started to feel really guilty because I felt i9 Sports was my purpose in life, but I got to the point where it wasn’t as fulfilling as it once was. An Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) is where you sell your company to your employees. They don’t need to have any money for the investment. Your corporation goes out and gets a loan from a bank, which loans the money to you personally, paying you for your stock at a valuation. The benefit of an ESOP is that your employees share in the profits. You still share in the profits and control the company, but they also benefit and get a sense of ownership. Another benefit of an ESOP is that you’re not giving away any information to a competitor. A lot of times if you’re bought out by a competitor, the deal falls through before it closes and they now have your proprietary information. My purpose is to use my creativity and enthusiasm to inspire others. I was mistaken when I thought my purpose was the ABA softball league, then i9 Sports, and then my book. I realize now that it was none of those things and it was all of them. Our life is made up of a series of missions. Episode Resources Running With My Head Down Book Connect With Frank Fiume II and i9 Sports Frank Fiume Website: https://www.frankfiume.com I9 Sports Website: https://www.i9sports.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/i9sports Twitter: https://twitter.com/i9Sports Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/i9_Sports LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/i9-sports

Shawn Burcham is the author of Keeping Score With GRITT: Straight Talk Strategies for Success and Founder & CEO of PFSbrands which he and his wife Julie started out of their home in 1998. PFSbrands has grown to 130+ employee-owners across 18 states and is now 100% employee-owned. Shawn decided to take a major risk in quitting his job and starting a business from the ground floor in 1998. Since starting PFSbrands, Shawn has started and grown over 10 businesses while also investing in other businesses where he feels he can help owners become more successful, including the business coaching company GRITT Business Coaching. It's because of these varied experiences that Shawn truly believes empowering employees to think and act like owners are the recipe for success. Shawn is passionate about helping others become more successful in work and in life. He believes in taking care of employees and providing them with opportunities where they can excel. He has a non-entitlement mentality and a straight-talk approach. He believes that all leaders need to care, have fun, and hold people accountable to high expectations. Shawn is a true entrepreneur that has taken the risks necessary to lead a company to double-digit growth for 20+ years. What you will learn in this episode: Why Shawn took the leap of faith of quitting his job to start his own business with his wife Julie What specific challenges and opportunities Shawn has faced in his career in the high-volume, low-margin foodservice industry How the complex PFSbrands business model has grown to include franchises in 42 states, and why Shawn integrates his past in athletics into his business leadership Why Shawn decided to go with an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) for his company, and what risks and advantages are offered by an ESOP Why Shawn developed his GRITT Business Coaching and decided to write his book Keeping Score With GRITT: Straight Talk Strategies for Success Why Shawn feels his core purpose in life is to help others find success and create opportunities for the people around him Why Shawn and his team offer a game called “Profit and Cash” to help teach financial literacy and dispel misconceptions about how businesses operate How the GRITTrac software that Shawn's team developed works to help CEOs and their teams track and understand their company's systems and progress How Shawn's unique career path and business philosophies have helped him surround himself with business leaders who believe in sharing knowledge and lifting each other up Why the tight labor market is the biggest challenge and greatest complexity Shawn and his business face at every level Resources: Keeping Score with GRITT by Shawn Burcham: https://amzn.to/2No890O Website: www.shawnburcham.com Website: www.GRITTbusinesscoaching.com Website: www.GRITTrac.com Additional Resources: Website: sharonspano.com Book: thetimemoneybook.com Events: sharonspano.com/workshops Contact: sharon@sharonspano.com Twitter: 

Craft Brew News - 12/06/2019(Stories Courtesy of BrewBound – www.brewbound.com)New Belgium to be Acquired by Kirin-Owned Lion Little World BeveragesAnother member of the old guard of craft brewing sold today when Kirin-owned Lion Little World Beverages announced a “definitive agreement” to acquire 100% of New Belgium Brewing Company in an all cash transaction.Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed, although it is expected to close at the end of 2019, pending approval from government regulators, as well as co-owners in New Belgium’s Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).Once closed, the transaction will mark the end of New Belgium’s 100% employee-owned status, which was fully implemented in 2012, and the end of the company’s status as a small and independent craft brewer as defined by national trade group the Brewers Association (BA).Co-founder Kim Jordan will also remain involved in an advisory role and will collaborate with other founders within Lion’s portfolio.Lion’s acquisition of New Belgium, the fourth largest BA-defined domestic craft brewery, will give the Australasian company a foothold in the U.S. market. In 2018, New Belgium produced just under 850,000 barrels of beer, a decline of 11% from 2017 levels.Coca-Cola Files Complaint Against Mark Anthony’s ‘White Claw Hard Seltzer Surge’ Trademark ApplicationCoca-Cola filed a complaint with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office last week claiming that Mark Anthony Brand’s application to register “White Claw Hard Seltzer Surge” infringes on its Surge brand of citrus sodas.Mark Anthony Brands filed an application with the USPTO on May 24 to register the brand name White Claw Hard Seltzer Surge, a product that has not yet been announced.According to Coca-Cola’s complaint filed November 20, White Claw’s proposed use of the Surge name is similar in “sound, appearance, connotation and commercial impression.”Surge soda launched in the 1990s as a competitor to Pepsi’s Mountain Dew brand and was discontinued in 2003. Coca-Cola resurrected the brand in 2014 and filed a trademark application for it on December 31, 2013.TTB Accepts Offer in Compromise From Seven Brides BrewingThe Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) has accepted an offer in compromise from now-shuttered Seven Brides Brewing in Silverton, Oregon.According to the TTB, Seven Brides offered to pay $18,230 of the $132,802.81 it owes in fines for violations that took place from April 2010 to September 2018. Seven Brides has offered to pay $3,630 up front and $1,000 each month for 14 months and the $600 balance in the fifteenth month.Before closing in October 2018, Seven Brides produced 650 barrels of beer, according to the Brewers Association.The TTB has accepted 18 compromise offers from wholesalers and producers this year.FDA Issues Warnings to 15 Companies for CBD Products, Cannot Declare CBD ‘Generally Regarded as Safe’The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced that it cannot yet determine that CBD is safe for consumption and issued warnings to 15 companies for promoting products with it in ways that violate the Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act, according to THCNet.The Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act prohibits companies from adding CBD to food, marketing products for children or infants, and claiming that CBD products can treat diseases, provide any kind of therapeutic relief or serve as a dietary supplement. So far, only one drug with CBD has been approved for use in humans; it treats two forms of pediatric epilepsy, Abernathy noted in the release. In order to declare CBD “generally recognized as safe,” the FDA must conduct more research on the substance’s affect on humans.Craft Beer Storm Website: www.craftbeerstorm.com If your Company, Hotel or Restaurant wants to book a CraftBeer Weekend or Craft Beer Evening for your guests or employees send an email to Michael@craftbeerstorm.com Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craft-beer-storm-podcast-30776075/Subscribe to Craft Beer Storm Podcast iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/craft-beer-storm/id1438117278?mt=2*** A Top 20 Podcast in Food on iTunes ***Michael Potorti is the Host of Craft Beer Storm and Founder/Brewer at Beara Brewing Co. in Portsmouth, NH*** Interested in starting your own brewery? Our Portsmouth, NH TURNKEY facility is for sale! Follow link for more info:https://www.neren.com/Listing/2800-Lafayette-Rd-12A/5cdda2dabf34cb9150a7faebMichael PotortiFounder/BrewerHost of "Craft Beer Storm" Podcastmichael@craftbeerstorm.commichael@bearairishbrew.com*** Come visit our brewery for some delicious local craft brew! ***Beara Brewing Co.2800 Lafayette RoadPortsmouth, NH 03801Tel. (857) 342-3272 www.bearairishbrew.com Like us onInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bearairishbrew/?hl=enFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/BearaIrishBrewingCo Twitter: https://twitter.com/BearaIrishBrew Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beara-brewing-co-30776075/**LISTEN to our Craft Beer Storm Podcast and share with a friend**Craft Beer Storm Podcast iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/craft-beer-storm/id1438117278Craft Beer Storm You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp3PVuCGmywNWlGFh0N0ukg?view_as=subscriberCraft Beer Storm Podcast Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/podcast-center-la-2/craft-beer-stormCraft Beer Storm Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craft-beer-storm-podcast-30776075/Craft Beer Storm Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/craftbeerstorm/Craft Beer Storm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/craftbeerstorm/

At some point, if you're a business owner, you'll have to think about trading your business in for retirement. And when it comes to identifying an exit strategy, you can either liquidate, keep it in the family, sell it to the highest bidder, or get your employees involved.  Ted Lape, a partner with Lazear Capital Partners, joins unsuitable to teach us more about the latter - getting your employees involved. He explains what an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) is, what it isn't, the benefits of starting your own, potential pitfalls, best practices, and more. What Is An ESOP? ESOPs have gained a lot of traction in recent years. Similar to a 401(k), ESOPs are defined contribution plans. However, instead of receiving Apple or IBM stocks as part of the plan, employees receive stock of the company they work for. It gives employees literal ownership over part of the company, which creates a personal vested interest in growing the company and ensuring it remains successful. If you're a business owner — especially if you're starting to think about retirement — listen to this episode to learn: When it makes sense to enter an ESOP — and when it doesn't. How ESOPs benefit employees. Potential pitfalls and best practices associated with starting an ESOP. If you liked this episode of unsuitable on Rea Radio, hit the like button and share it on social media. You can also use https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.google.com_url-3Fq-3Dhttps-3A__www.google.com_url-3Fq-253Dhttps-3A__soundcloud.com_tags_ReaRadio-2526amp-3Bsa-253DD-2526amp-3Bust-253D1495715306637000-2526amp-3Busg-253DAFQjCNEO7cuFlEr4TprDlXnPLFfc9-2Dgibw-26sa-3DD-26ust-3D1495715306647000-26usg-3DAFQjCNEzY2V0AC9u7-5FBmQFuJKyVAvJyQeg&d=DQMGaQ&c=euGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&r=k7LfU80KH4iNnyPfAqQ-rX5QpCf0a3QOjTYt0O4ZNmU&m=T1q209PKwbilMnNtQPiJxrBmabVSEA0vG_jEl1oE1Fg&s=2nQGrmKAd8X40UODzRu5Qf8X4SHKpfADfpIyDje_vsE&e= ( #ReaRadio) to join the conversation on Facebook and Twitter, and you can watch the podcast in action on the https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.youtube.com_channel_UC-5FeV4nJToshDK5yNISpZH1w&d=DQMGaQ&c=euGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&r=k7LfU80KH4iNnyPfAqQ-rX5QpCf0a3QOjTYt0O4ZNmU&m=nPEHxkyMiraiLhboRvg_aol6-fqT9JdWkaDW1OWOlxw&s=HoyT0c7uSAdLfAmwU0Ps8RC4nUbrxhjRpa5Cx18qNlA&e= ( Rea & Associates YouTube channel). We've also included access to additional resources on our website at https://www.reacpa.com (https://www.reacpa.com).

Joe Isom, vice president (former president), California Sheet Metal is featured in this episode of Let’s Talk Shop. Host Angie Simon, president, Western Allied Mechanical, and SMACNA president-elect talks with Joe about his company’s conversion to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). They discuss how this succession strategy has improved the culture of the company and how it has changed the way staff and leadership view their roles at California Sheet Metal.

On this episode, I speak with Phil Coupe, Co-founder of ReVision Energy, a full-service renewable energy contracting company in Maine that was ranked the #1 in New England – and #14 nationally – for rooftop solar in 2016.  Started in 2003 by two guys in a garage, Phil and his partners have grown ReVision to a 250-employee company spanning five locations in three states.  In 2017, Revision sold itself to its employees via an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) so we dive deep into this program, the founders’ reasons for pursuing it, and why they think it will set the company up for the next 100 years.We are taking a short break for the holidays.  The podcast will continue on January 11th.

For the past 25 years, StoneAge has been experimenting with ways to give its employees a stake in the company’s success, a path to personal wealth-building, and more ownership over their individual job performance. What began as a profit-sharing program evolved into a homegrown stock ownership program, and now a federally-regulated Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) that could provide a model for other businesses looking for creative ways to build an inclusive, winning, and productive culture. Kerry Siggins has evolved along with StoneAge as well. On today’s show, we discuss her 11-year rise from general manager all the way up to CEO, and why she believes more businesses should consider forming an ESOP to get employees on board with making BIG happen.

In this episode, we share "Best Practices to Help Trustees Sleep at Night" presented at The ESOP Association PA/DE Chapter & NY/NJ Chapter Multi-State 2018 Conference in Hershey, PA on September 13th, 2018. We start with a brief introduction and some background from presenter Gregory Kniesel, Managing Director at Value Management Inc. VMI is a financial consulting firm specializing in valuing businesses, corporate securities, and professional practices. At the presentation, Greg is joined by: - Drake Nicholas, partner at Barley Snyder. Drake manages the firm's Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) practice. - Rich Heeter, Managing Director at Capital Trustees. (You can learn more about Rich in The ESOP Podcast Episode 42: About Capital Trustees) We then share the audio from the interdisciplinary panel. The panel addressed considerations and issues faced by the trustee, including industry and regulatory guidance and a discussion of how ESOP company financial projections are developed and used. The session also includes a discussion of the fiduciary duties.

In recent decades, workers' paychecks have remained stagnant, despite increases in productivity. At the same time, returns to wealth have increased. Strategies that transform workers into owners, such as employee share ownership strategies, have the potential to give working people a stake in our growing economy and include them in the nation's prosperity. With employee share ownership strategies, employees may hold a majority of shares as participants in an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), be members of a worker cooperative, or have a meaningful stake in a public company or start-up. Business leaders often emphasize the value of employee engagement, and many have found that these strategies contribute to higher levels of worker engagement, relative to that of peer companies. Can employee share ownership strategies help workers to share in the success of their companies, while promoting business success? At this event, we hear about companies that have used employee share ownership models successfully, as well as policymakers who are exploring strategies to support and advance employee share ownership opportunities. This event was jointly hosted by the Economic Opportunities Program and the Financial Security Program. This event features Congressman Erik Paulsen (US Representative for Minnesota's Third Congressional District), Joseph Blasi (Senior Fellow, Aspen Institute Economic Opportunities Program; Director, Institute for the Study of Employee Ownership and Profit Sharing at Rutgers University; J. Robert Beyster Distinguished Professor, Rutgers University's School of Management and Labor Relations), Amy Hall (Vice President, Social Consciousness, EILEEN FISHER), Markita Madden-Puckett (Customer Service Representative, ComSonics, Inc.), Stephen R. Smith (President & CEO, AMSTED Industries), Steven Voigt (Retired President & CEO, King Arthur Flour), and moderator Heather Long (Economics Correspondent, The Washington Post). This event is part of the Working in America series, an ongoing discussion series hosted by the Aspen Institute Economic Opportunities Program that highlights an array of critical issues affecting low- and moderate-income workers in the United States and ideas for improving and expanding economic opportunities for working people. For more information, visit as.pn/workinginamerica. The Economic Opportunities Program advances strategies, policies, and ideas to help low- and moderate-income people thrive in a changing economy. We recognize that race, gender, and place intersect with and intensify the challenge of economic inequality and we address these dynamics by advancing an inclusive vision of economic justice. For over 25 years, EOP has focused on expanding individuals' opportunities to connect to quality work, start businesses, and build economic stability that provides the freedom to pursue opportunity. Learn more at as.pn/eop.

In the previous episode, Dave Phillips joined us to share his recent Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) experience. In today's episode, we look at the technical side of the process – without getting too far into the weeds. Joining us again on unsuitable is Tim McDaniel, a principal and director of valuation services here at Rea, who explains why ESOPs are growing in popularity, how they compare with other succession plan options, and what goes into implementation. Succession Planning: Die at Your Desk, Or… A popular succession plan (or lack thereof) for a surprising number of business owners is to simply die at their desk and let everybody else clean it up. It's not the plan we would recommend or the best way to capitalize on your greatest asset… but it is an option. However, you also have other, better options! You can sell it to an outside party, which maximizes your payout, but the downside is that your business loses its identity (and your employees can lose their jobs). While ESOPs may not have as large of a payout, it gives business owners the opportunity to preserve their legacy, and there are tax benefits to choosing a stock transaction over an assets transaction. It all comes down to what is more important to you: money or legacy? If you are a business owner, you will be interested in these other topics discussed in this episode: Whether you should consider an ESOP for your business The fiscal & emotional considerations of a succession plan How to successfully implement an ESOP If you liked this episode of unsuitable on Rea Radio, let us know by hitting the like button or by sharing it with your followers on social media. You can also use #ReaRadio to join the conversation on Facebook and Twitter, and you can watch the podcast in action on the Rea & Associates YouTube channel. We've also included access to additional resources on our website at www.reacpa.com.

Mary Lou Jacoby, founder of Warehouse1, joins host Kelly Scanlon on this episode to talk about her entrepreneurial journey. Warehouse 1 got its start when Jacoby saw opportunity where others saw trash. When Jacoby approached the owner of an auction company who had a building full of old, used equipment in Kansas City, Jacoby offered to buy the building if the owner would allow Jacoby to finance it by selling the contents of the building. Jacoby thought the retail shelving, storage cabinets, conveyor belts, fork lifts and other items that hadn’t been already sold at auction could be resold to other companies if they were just cleaned up a little. Jacoby sold the used inventory in just 60 days, and repaid the loan in 90 days. Warehouse1 was born, and Jacoby has been turning salvage into success ever since. Recently, Jacoby shared that success with her 49 employees by leading Warehouse1 through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). Listen in as Jacoby shares her story, advice and future plans. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices