Episodes

  • Ownership Matters: Designing Trust and Participation in Online Communities

    Ownership Matters: Designing Trust and Participation in Online Communities
    Aug 22 2025
    Meet Nathan Schneider (Assistant Professor, University of Colorado Boulder; Board Member, Start.coop). In this episode, we dig into how small business owners can make employee ownership (EO) a realistic exit path—and why Zolidar is designing a Wikipedia-inspired EO community to keep fragmented information fresh, accurate, and community-owned. We talk frankly about the hard parts of building participatory spaces and multi-sided commons: the need for clear early scaffolding (sometimes top-down) so participation matters from day one, and how the right software becomes an “Iron Man suit” for owners, advisors, and employees moving from curiosity to transaction.Some takeaways:Why a Wikipedia-style knowledge layer is key for EO: freshness, accuracy, and shared ownership of informationParticipation is hard: pragmatic scaffolding early on so people actually contribute and benefitTech as a thought partner: a platform layer that speeds trust, widens reach, and supports real transactionsDay-one value design: seed content and peer owner stories so first visits create momentumRight-sized governance for SMBs: don’t rewrite every rule—shift accountability and keep participation lightweightWhere the numbers work: tools that surface financially sound EO deals and run them on familiar professional railsClick here to watch this episode on the Zolidar YouTube Channel. MAILBAG | GET IN TOUCH WITH US We'd love to feature your voice in an upcoming mailbag episode! Have a question for us? Leave a voicemail at 650-203-6565, or send an email to social@zolidar.com. Remember, voicemails make for more engaging episodes—we want to hear your actual voice!ZOLIDAR LINKS:https://zolidar.comhttps://zolidar.com/podcasthttps://zolidar.com/bloghttps://zolidar.com/grid/person/allZOLIDAR FEATURES:https://zolidar.com/exit-plan-guidehttps://zolidar.com/exit-financial-planhttps://zolidar.com/dashboard?zolidai=trueZOLIDAR SOCIAL MEDIA:https://www.linkedin.com/company/zolidar/https://www.youtube.com/@zolidarhttps://x.com/zolidarhttps://www.instagram.com/zolidar_comhttps://www.facebook.com/zolidarioCHAPTERS (00:00) - Introduction to Nathan Schneider (00:24) - Exploring the Intersection of Technology & Social Change (02:07) - The Twitter Campaign and Platform Cooperativism (03:34) - Building New Digital Communities: The Case of Social.coop (05:02) - Cultivating Community in Online Spaces (06:49) - Diversity in Shared Ownership Models (08:28) - The Challenge of Stakeholder Ownership (09:47) - Shifting Accountability: From Shareholders to Stakeholders (10:25) - Aligning Incentives in Cooperative Structures (12:36) - High Fidelity Democracy: Liquid Democracy and Citizen Assemblies (14:42) - Designing Participatory Spaces for Community Engagement (16:22) - Success Metrics in Shared Ownership Models (20:01) - The Power of Ownership and Participation (23:14) - Navigating Fragmentation in Employee Ownership (25:37) - Scaling Employee Ownership Awareness (27:29) - Policy and Technology: A Dual Approach (30:14) - Building Trust in Online Communities (35:10) - The Importance of Governance in Online Spaces (37:38) - Podcast Outro CONNECT WITH NATHAN SCHNEIDERNathan SchneiderREFERENCED IN THIS EPISODE:Namaste SolarStart.coopClick here to view the episode transcript. © Copyright 2025 Zolidar, Inc.Note: This podcast is not investment advice and is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host or Zolidar.LISTEN ON YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST APP:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2605NdSV35dhgtuB6cETBo?si=v9EdSd4iTDa7GDp4cxISTQ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ownership-matters-designing-trust-and-participation/id1793273251?i=1000723116922 YouTube: https://youtu.be/d3hvknFTTMQ Audible/Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/e9fe6479-8499-4a29-9b51-cc164d686d79/episodes/6844010c-769e-48b1-8abd-fbbc4273db8c/bicycle-for-the-eo-mind-ownership-matters-designing-trust-and-participation-in-online-communities YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/watch?v=d3hvknFTTMQ&si=wcgh0GNzH5LnX3eb Pandora: https://www.pandora.com/podcast/bicycle-for-the-eo-mind/ownership-matters-designing-trust-and-participation-in-online-communities/PE:1319560595?part=ug-desktop&corr=210763187052618403 PocketCasts: https://pocketcasts.com/podcasts/62832590-c704-013d-7d6f-0affcdcd4ef3/459eb03f-cc06-4f34-aa14-64ed0db0fbd6
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    38 mins
  • How a $50M Science Ed Company Used a Perpetual Purpose Trust for Succession

    How a $50M Science Ed Company Used a Perpetual Purpose Trust for Succession
    Jul 31 2025
    Meet David Vernier, founder of Vernier Science Education, a 43-year-old education technology company serving science teachers that transitioned to a Perpetual Purpose Trust (PPT) in January 2024. With over 100 employees and $50M in annual revenue, Vernier's transition offers valuable insights for business owners considering employee ownership alternatives.Some takeaways:How a CEO's retirement announcement after 30 years with the company became the catalyst for exploring various exit optionsWhy the Perpetual Purpose Trust model appealed to Vernier after considering ESOPs, strategic sales, and other optionsThe creative financing structure: founders donated 50% of their shares while creating seller financing for the remainderHow maintaining company culture, including daily sports activities, sustainability initiatives, and a family-like atmosphere was central to their exit planningThe dual challenges of transitioning ownership while navigating post-pandemic supply chain disruptions that affected company valuationClick here to watch this episode on the Zolidar YouTube Channel. MAILBAG | GET IN TOUCH WITH US We'd love to feature your voice in an upcoming mailbag episode! Have a question for us? Leave a voicemail at 650-203-6565, or send an email to social@zolidar.com. Remember, voicemails make for more engaging episodes—we want to hear your actual voice!ZOLIDAR LINKS:https://zolidar.comhttps://zolidar.com/podcasthttps://zolidar.com/bloghttps://zolidar.com/grid/person/allZOLIDAR FEATURES:https://zolidar.com/exit-plan-guidehttps://zolidar.com/exit-financial-planhttps://zolidar.com/dashboard?zolidai=trueZOLIDAR SOCIAL MEDIA:https://www.linkedin.com/company/zolidar/https://www.youtube.com/@zolidarhttps://x.com/zolidarhttps://www.instagram.com/zolidar_comhttps://www.facebook.com/zolidarioCHAPTERS (00:00) - The Journey of Vernier Science Education (05:40) - Exploring Ownership Transitions (10:52) - Understanding Perpetual Purpose Trusts (20:07) - Navigating Financial Challenges (28:09) - Leadership Changes and Future Directions (41:59) - Introduction and Call to Action (42:46) - Podcast Outro CONNECT WITH VERNIER SCIENCE EDUCATIONVernier Science EducationREFERENCED IN THIS EPISODE:David Vernier (Founder)Natalie Reitman-White (Purpose Owned, Purpose Trust Ownership Network)Peter Koehler (Lumo Group)Organically Grown Company (Peer PPT company)Local Ocean Seafoods (PPT restaurant)DAVID'S FAVORITE QUOTE "Life is what happens when you're busy making other plans."Click here to view the episode transcript. © Copyright 2025 Zolidar, Inc.Note: This podcast is not investment advice and is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host or Zolidar.LISTEN ON YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST APP: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2flY9px357tBles6PreW3R?si=6SAkFDemQeCwCf7w478CVA Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-a-%2450m-science-ed-company-used-a/id1793273251?i=1000720145349 YouTube: https://youtu.be/Nx9E-g-mNxE Audible/Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com.mx/podcasts/e9fe6479-8499-4a29-9b51-cc164d686d79/episodes/b3141326-3ce8-41b6-a826-624d5609ad1a/bicycle-for-the-eo-mind-how-a-50m-science-ed-company-used-a-perpetual-purpose-trust-for-succession YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/watch?v=Nx9E-g-mNxE&si=vvHI0hsBhd4cq5hV Pandora: https://pandora.app.link/ocAgTPnJsVb PocketCasts: https://pca.st/tusa7mwk
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    43 mins
  • A Value Driven Exit: How a Financial Advisory Firm Became a Perpetual Purpose Trust

    A Value Driven Exit: How a Financial Advisory Firm Became a Perpetual Purpose Trust
    Jul 30 2025
    Meet Michael Kramer from Natural Investments, a financial advisory firm specializing in socially responsible investing that transitioned to a Perpetual Purpose Trust (PPT) in 2023. After joining as the firm's third financial advisor in 2000, Michael served as managing partner from 2007 to 2023 before becoming a trust steward and manager during their innovative ownership transition.Some takeaways:How the growing valuation of their successful firm made traditional succession planning impossible, as younger advisors couldn't afford to buy inWhy they rejected lucrative acquisition offers from larger firms to preserve their mission of "using money as a tool for social change"Their creative financing approach: borrowing from RSF Social Finance for the down payment, with customized promissory notes for each exiting partnerHow they decoupled governance from ownership by creating a Trust Stewardship Committee with 3-year rotating terms to increase diversity in leadershipThe importance of early stakeholder engagement in the transition process to gain buy-in and incorporate diverse perspectivesClick here to watch this episode on the Zolidar YouTube Channel. MAILBAG | GET IN TOUCH WITH US We'd love to feature your voice in an upcoming mailbag episode! Have a question for us? Leave a voicemail at 650-203-6565, or send an email to social@zolidar.com. Remember, voicemails make for more engaging episodes—we want to hear your actual voice!ZOLIDAR LINKS:https://zolidar.comhttps://zolidar.com/podcasthttps://zolidar.com/bloghttps://zolidar.com/grid/person/allZOLIDAR FEATURES:https://zolidar.com/exit-plan-guidehttps://zolidar.com/exit-financial-planhttps://zolidar.com/dashboard?zolidai=trueZOLIDAR SOCIAL MEDIA:https://www.linkedin.com/company/zolidar/https://www.youtube.com/@zolidarhttps://x.com/zolidarhttps://www.instagram.com/zolidar_comhttps://www.facebook.com/zolidarioCHAPTERS (00:00) - Introduction to Natural Investments and Transition Planning (02:53) - Challenges in Business Ownership and Succession (05:27) - Exploring Alternative Ownership Structures (08:09) - Values Alignment in Consulting and Decision Making (11:05) - Maintaining Culture and Legacy During Transition (13:33) - Financial Considerations and Valuation Process (16:34) - Financing the Transition and Community Impact (18:59) - Normalizing Financials and Predicting Growth (21:54) - Aha Moments in Trust Stewardship and Governance (31:15) - Leadership Development and Trust Stewardship (32:30) - Defining Purpose and Objectives (34:15) - Governance Structures and Legal Frameworks (37:02) - Navigating Legal Documentation (38:36) - Financial Planning and Scenario Modeling (39:07) - Preparing for Worst-Case Scenarios (41:45) - Engaging Stakeholders in the Transition (43:47) - Reflections on the Transition Process (46:09) - Future Goals and Technology's Role (48:38) - Advice for Business Owners on Exiting (54:48) - Podcast Outro CONNECT WITH NATURAL INVESTMENTSNatural InvestmentsREFERENCED IN THIS EPISODE:Michael Kramer (Former Managing Partner, Trust Steward)RSF Social Finance (Lender)Organically Grown Company (PPT Pioneer)Lumo Group and Purpose Owned (Consultants)The Resilient Investor (Book)MICHAEL'S FAVORITE QUOTE "It's not what you look at that matters, it's what you see." - Henry David ThoreauClick here to view the episode transcript. © Copyright 2025 Zolidar, Inc.Note: This podcast is not investment advice and is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host or Zolidar.LISTEN ON YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST APP: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/386mgvtP4NU6P4ZWnxccvr?si=FDlB-02ARUao2O9pbnAavg Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-value-driven-exit-how-a-financial-advisory/id1793273251?i=1000719752190YouTube: https://youtu.be/UIzvXfi87VEYouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/watch?v=UIzvXfi87VE&si=T7iH7144yWYgyyvaAudible/Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/e9fe6479-8499-4a29-9b51-cc164d686d79/episodes/b1f123af-56bd-46e5-b847-40e6366c1379/bicycle-for-the-eo-mind-a-value-driven-exit-how-a-financial-advisory-firm-became-a-perpetual-purpose-trustPandora: https://www.pandora.com/podcast/bicycle-for-the-eo-mind/a-value-driven-exit-how-a-financial-advisory-firm-became-a-perpetual-purpose-trust/PE:1319337804?part=ug-desktop&corr=210763187052618403 PocketCasts: https://pca.st/jv9567q0
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    55 mins
  • When Buyers Don't Knock: ShopBot's Profitable EOT Exit

    When Buyers Don't Knock: ShopBot's Profitable EOT Exit
    Jul 30 2025
    Meet Ted Hall, founder and board chair of ShopBot Tools, and Anne-Claire Broughton, founder of Broughton Consulting and former executive director of the North Carolina Employee Ownership Center. Founded in 1996 in Durham, North Carolina, ShopBot designs, manufactures, and distributes computer numerically controlled (CNC) routers with about 35 employees.Some takeaways:How being an open-book management company with profit sharing perfectly paved the way for their EOT transition.Ted’s innovative earn-out structure as a 70% shareholder—taking 10% every year for 10 years—aligning his incentives with the company’s ability to operate profitably, reinvest, and continue profit sharing throughout the buyout.Why ShopBot’s fluctuating profitability made it less appealing to third-party buyers, even though it was consistently profitable overall, making employee ownership the most sensible exit path.The importance of state trust laws when planning for an EOT transition—North Carolina’s trust law played a key role in ShopBot’s unique governance structure.Click here to watch this episode on the Zolidar YouTube Channel. MAILBAG | GET IN TOUCH WITH US Have a question for us? Leave a voicemail at 650-203-6565, or send an email to social@zolidar.com.CHAPTERS(00:00) - Introduction to ShopBot Tools and Employee Ownership (02:54) - The Challenge of Transitioning from Business Owner to Exiting (08:34) - Common Experiences in Business Succession Planning (09:37) - Family Legacy and Profit Sharing in Business (13:38) - Open Book Management and Employee Engagement (15:49) - Understanding EBITDA and Its Role in Business Transition (16:26) - Realizations About Employee Ownership and ESOPs (17:24) - Discovering the EOT Model and Its Benefits (21:36) - Establishing Governance and Employee Voice in EOT (24:35) - Navigating the Transition Process and Legal Considerations (26:38) - Navigating Funding Challenges for Employee Ownership (31:46) - Transitioning to Employee Ownership: Lessons Learned (35:50) - The Roadmap to Employee Ownership Transition (37:54) - Evaluating Employee Ownership as an Exit Strategy (41:59) - The Role of Technology in Employee Ownership (45:25) - Empowering Employees Through Financial Literacy (47:18) - Podcast Outro ZOLIDAR LINKS:https://zolidar.comhttps://zolidar.com/podcasthttps://zolidar.com/bloghttps://zolidar.com/grid/person/allZOLIDAR FEATURES:https://zolidar.com/exit-plan-guidehttps://zolidar.com/exit-financial-planhttps://zolidar.com/dashboard?zolidai=trueZOLIDAR SOCIAL MEDIA:https://www.linkedin.com/company/zolidar/https://www.youtube.com/@zolidarhttps://x.com/zolidarhttps://www.instagram.com/zolidar_comhttps://www.facebook.com/zolidarioKEY TERMS USED IN THIS EPISODE:EOT (Employee Ownership Trust)ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan)EBITDAOpen Book ManagementClick here to view the episode transcript. REFERENCED IN THIS EPISODE:Chris Michael (EOT Advisors) Purpose Trust Ownership Network (PTON)The Great Game of BusinessNorth Carolina Employee Ownership CenterBroughton ConsultingNational Center for Employee Ownership (NCEO)WHAT TED WANTS TO HEAR FROM AUDIENCE MEMBERSTed wants to hear from other companies or founders considering a transition - especially those who may be interested in learning more about Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs) or are navigating their own transition planning process. Find Ted on the Grid! © Copyright 2025 Zolidar, Inc. Note: This podcast is not investment advice and is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host or Zolidar.LISTEN ON YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST APP:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5xkwye4574eviX5ZdbmR9u?si=925c7ee650da4a1bApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/when-buyers-dont-knock-shopbots-profitable-eot-exit/id1793273251?i=1000714654316Audible/Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/e9fe6479-8499-4a29-9b51-cc164d686d79/episodes/ccaa0f30-7938-4c0e-9686-2c2e4ac5320c/bicycle-for-the-eo-mind-when-buyers-don't-knock-shopbot's-profitable-eot-exitYouTube: https://youtu.be/jeuVvDxvvtoYouTube Music: https://youtu.be/jeuVvDxvvto?si=ufpdyzS0w8oXO9hVPocketCasts: https://pocketcasts.com/podcasts/62832590-c704-013d-7d6f-0affcdcd4ef3/12b211ac-9c18-4e...
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    47 mins
  • Nature Has a Seat: Biohabitats' Evolution Into a Purpose Trust

    Nature Has a Seat: Biohabitats' Evolution Into a Purpose Trust
    Jul 30 2025
    In this episode of Bicycle for the EO Mind, we speak with Keith Bowers, founder of Biohabitats, an ecological restoration firm that transitioned to a Perpetual Purpose Trust in 2023. Founded in 1982, Biohabitats has spent over 40 years restoring the earth and inspiring ecological stewardship. Their unique transition preserves the company's values and mission for generations to come.Key Takeaways:Keith's deep ecology philosophy that "we are the rocks dancing" reflects Biohabitats' understanding that everything in nature is connected and alive.Unlike selling to private equity or competitors, the Perpetual Purpose Trust model allows Biohabitats to practice capitalism differently - prioritizing purpose over profit maximization.In a groundbreaking move, Biohabitats legally codified nature as having a seat on their Trust Stewardship Committee, with Keith serving as the initial "Nature Guardian".Rather than completely exiting, Keith has transitioned to a role where he can focus on the ecological restoration work he loves while leaving operations to new leadership.Click here to watch this episode on the Zolidar YouTube Channel. MAILBAG | GET IN TOUCH WITH US Have a question for us? Leave a voicemail at 650-203-6565, or send an email to social@zolidar.com.ZOLIDAR LINKS:https://zolidar.comhttps://zolidar.com/podcasthttps://zolidar.com/bloghttps://zolidar.com/grid/person/allZOLIDAR FEATURES:https://zolidar.com/exit-plan-guidehttps://zolidar.com/exit-financial-planhttps://zolidar.com/dashboard?zolidai=trueZOLIDAR SOCIAL MEDIA:https://www.linkedin.com/company/zolidar/https://www.youtube.com/@zolidarhttps://x.com/zolidarhttps://www.instagram.com/zolidar_comhttps://www.facebook.com/zolidarioCHAPTERS (00:00) - Introduction to BioHabitats and Keith Bowers (02:39) - Legacy and Transition Planning (05:24) - Employee Ownership and Governance Structure (08:15) - Valuation and Fairness in Buyout (10:40) - Financing the Transition (13:47) - Education and Stakeholder Engagement (16:14) - Choosing Advisors and the Deal Team (18:51) - Matrix Analysis for Ownership Models (21:50) - Legal Considerations and Trust Formation (24:31) - Celebration of Transition and Future Vision (30:26) - Navigating Legal Complexities in Business Transitions (32:52) - Dismantling and Restructuring: The Case of Biohabitats (36:36) - Purpose-Driven Governance: The Role of Trusts (40:09) - Checks and Balances: Ensuring Accountability in Purpose Trusts (44:03) - Leveraging Technology for Seamless Transitions (48:04) - Post-Transition Reflections: The Impact of Purpose Trusts (51:21) - The Role of Nature in Business Governance (54:45) - Advice for Future Business Exits: Planning for Legacy (56:27) - Connecting with Keith: Resources and Next Steps (58:04) - Introduction and Call to Action (58:50) - Podcast Outro CONNECT WITH BIOHABITATSREFERENCED IN THIS EPISODE:Keith Bowers (Founder)Biohabitats' Leaf Litter JournalKEY TERMS USED IN THIS EPISODE:PPT (Perpetual Purpose Trust)ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan)S CorporationC CorporationAOE (Alternative Ownership Enterprise)Click here to view the episode transcript. © Copyright 2025 Zolidar, Inc. Note: This podcast is not investment advice and is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host or Zolidar.LISTEN ON YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST APP: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6rJeeymjEPwHywDDnSluR0?si=9622cd2c58c44ec4 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nature-has-a-seat-biohabitats-evolution-into/id1793273251?i=1000717523206 Audible/Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/e9fe6479-8499-4a29-9b51-cc164d686d79/episodes/c4b47f45-cb10-4bc5-b231-7c4ec69f6b65/bicycle-for-the-eo-mind-nature-has-a-seat-biohabitats'-evolution-into-a-purpose-trust YouTube: https://youtu.be/5waCQuoAO-0YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/watch?v=5waCQuoAO-0&si=cjTeOfGfu9qDJAK-Audible: https://www.audible.in/pd/B0FHQCZ9ZC?source_code=ASSGB149080119000H&share_location=pdp Pandora: https://pandora.app.link/Mf5o454f3UbPocketCasts: https://pca.st/gtyktuw5
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    59 mins
  • ACE in the Hole: ACE Hardware’s Gina Schaefer on Becoming an ESOP

    ACE in the Hole: ACE Hardware’s Gina Schaefer on Becoming an ESOP
    Mar 27 2025
    Meet Gina Schaefer, founder and former CEO of A Few Cool Hardware Stores, and current CEO Craig Smith. Based in the Washington-Baltimore region, they are an ESOP of 13 brick and mortar hardware stores, generating roughly $50M in annual sales, which transitioned in 2021, creating over a hundred employee owners.Some takeaways:How an excited employee owner at New Belgium Brewery, and realizing employees paid $0 to become owners convinced Gina and her CFO husband Marc to choose an ESOP exitThe Hogan leadership assessment helped Gina zero in on change management as a key trait to find in her successor, CraigGina and Craig’s quest to professionalize the neighborhood brick and mortar hardware store retail experience – including building significant wealth for employee ownersGina had to overcome obstacles as a woman in a male-dominated business world, including how she let go of the title “CEO".Click here to watch this episode on the Zolidar YouTube Channel. MAILBAG | GET IN TOUCH WITH USHave a question for us? Leave a voicemail at 650-203-6565, or send an email to social@zolidar.com. ZOLIDAR LINKS:https://zolidar.comhttps://zolidar.com/podcasthttps://zolidar.com/blogZOLIDAR FEATURES:https://zolidar.com/exit-plan-guidehttps://zolidar.com/exit-financial-planhttps://zolidar.com/dashboard?zolidai=trueZOLIDAR SOCIAL MEDIA:https://www.linkedin.com/company/zolidar/https://www.youtube.com/@zolidarhttps://x.com/zolidarhttps://www.instagram.com/zolidar_comhttps://www.facebook.com/zolidarioCHAPTERS(00:00) - Chapter 1(00:00) - Introduction to Employee Ownership (04:35) - The Concept of Recovery Hardware (04:35) - Hiring for Impact: Building Generational Wealth (05:05) - Mentorship and Guidance in Transition (06:06) - The Role of Employee Ownership Exchange Network (06:48) - Craig's Journey into Hardware Ownership (07:42) - Navigating Employee Ownership (08:25) - Learning from Mentors in the ESOP Process (09:22) - Exploring Ownership Options (10:10) - The Value of ESOPs (11:01) - Tools and Resources for ESOPs (11:18) - Financial Considerations in the ESOP Decision (11:54) - Navigating Financial Considerations in Business Transitions (13:19) - The ESOP Advantage: Employee Ownership and Tax Benefits (14:42) - Professionalizing Retail: The Impact of Employee Ownership (16:42) - Building Relationships: The Role of National Cooperative Bank (18:44) - Manifesting Success: The Journey of Business Growth (20:09) - Valuation Insights: Understanding Business Worth (21:20) - Understanding Valuation in ESOPs (22:21) - Transitioning to an ESOP: The Journey Begins (24:59) - Change Management and Leadership Dynamics (29:28) - Documenting Processes for a Smooth Transition (30:35) - Empathy in Leadership During Change (31:10) - Navigating Change and Employee Concerns (33:30) - Understanding ESOPs and Employee Engagement (34:32) - Streamlining the Transition Process (37:50) - Setting Goals and Metrics for Success (38:59) - Emotional Aspects of Transitioning to ESOPs (41:31) - Call to Action (42:16) - Podcast OutroCONNECT WITH A FEW COOL HARDWARE STORES https://acehardwaredc.com/https://zolidar.com/community/organization/bkGWemREFERENCED IN THIS EPISODE:Gina Schaefer (Founder, Former CEO): https://zolidar.com/community/person/ZVQCOTCraig Smith (Current CEO): https://zolidar.com/community/person/ajOKqwMarc Friedman (Former CFO): https://zolidar.com/community/person/-uZdOKuEmployee Ownership Expansion Network (EOX): https://zolidar.com/community/organization/-97slr0Steve Storkan (Executive Director, Employee Ownership Expansion Network): https://zolidar.com/community/person/sw8H2XOne America (ESOP service provider/Third Party Administrator): https://zolidar.com/community/organization/-BDaRBANational Cooperative Bank (Finance): https://zolidar.com/community/organization/qwsW28Click here to view the episode transcript. © Copyright 2025 Zolidar, Inc.Note: This podcast is not investment advice and is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host or Zolidar.LISTEN ON YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST APP:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/756alSrywJ5dAN8BRJoQ62Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ace-in-the-hole-ace-hardwares-gina-schaefer-on/id1793273251?i=1000701114490YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C7AQl8eBpUYAudible/Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/e9fe6479-8499-4a29-9b51-cc164d686d79/episodes/d0ec6c75-4f41-46d9-b6a9-98fde0e3259f/YouTube Music: https://youtu.be/nQb-HcvGh8gPandora: https://www.pandora.com/podcast/bicycle-for-the-eo-mind/ace-in-the-hole-ace-hardwares-gina-schaefer-on-becoming-an-esop/PE:1317598905PocketCasts: https://play.pocketcasts.com/podcasts/6...
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    42 mins
  • Why a Bay Area IT Firm Made the Transition From Owner-Operated to Worker-Owned to Secure Its Future

    Why a Bay Area IT Firm Made the Transition From Owner-Operated to Worker-Owned to Secure Its Future
    Mar 12 2025
    Meet Jerry Skomer, founder of Alternative Technologies, an IT and telecom services company that supports Bay Area nonprofits and progressive businesses. Jerry faced a crucial challenge: how to preserve the company’s values, protect employees’ jobs, and ensure continued community service. His solution? Transforming Alternative Technologies into a worker-owned cooperative. The transition wasn’t easy—COVID-19 included, Jerry financed a third of the sale, structured an earnout over six years, and retained management hiring control for three.In this episode, you’ll hear about:Balancing Agility and Risk AversionTrusting the ProcessThe Role of a Task ForceSharing the RiskClick here to watch this episode on the Zolidar YouTube Channel. MAILBAG | GET IN TOUCH WITH USWe’d love to feature your voice in an upcoming mailbag episode! Have a question for us? Leave a voicemail at 650-203-6565, or send an email to social@zolidar.com. Voicemails make for more engaging episodes—we want to hear your actual voice!ZOLIDAR LINKS:Home Page: https://zolidar.comPodcast: https://zolidar.com/podcastBlog: https://zolidar.com/blogZOLIDAR FEATURES:Day Zero Guide: https://zolidar.com/exit-plan-guideAha! Planner: https://zolidar.com/exit-financial-planZolid AI: https://zolidar.com/dashboard?zolidai=trueZOLIDAR SOCIAL MEDIA:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zolidar/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@zolidarX: https://x.com/zolidarInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/zolidar_comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/zolidarioCHAPTERS(00:00) - - Introduction and Personal Philosophy (04:36) - - Transitioning Out of Business Ownership (07:02) - - Planning the Exit Strategy (08:35) - - Forming the Task Force (10:52) - - Navigating the Pandemic's Impact (13:22) - - Understanding Business Valuation (15:34) - - Exploring Employee Ownership (17:47) - - Financing the Transition (20:10) - - The Role of the Lender (22:12) - - Trusting the Process of Transition (25:56) - - Transitioning to Governance: A New Role (28:51) - - Building a Supportive Team for Transition (32:13) - - Navigating Legal Complexities in Co-op Formation (33:08) - - The Impact of Technology on Transition Processes (39:13) - - Reflections on Employee Ownership as an Exit Strategy (42:06) - - Proud Achievements and Lessons Learned (43:09) - - First Steps for Business Owners Considering Exit (45:19) - - Call to Action (46:03) - - Podcast Outro Key Terms Used in This Episode:EBITDAValuation Multiples EarnoutIndicative ValuationCONNECT WITH ALTERNATIVE TECHNOLOGIESWebsite: https://www.alternativetechs.com/Zolidar's Community: https://zolidar.com/community/organization/alternative-technologies-serviceprovider-TlxChEREFERENCED IN THIS EPISODE:Jerry Skomer (Former Owner & President): https://zolidar.com/community/person/jerry-skomer--tpXKobShared Capital: https://zolidar.com/community/organization/shared-capital-cooperative-capitalprovider-RkCkLVProject Equity: https://zolidar.com/community/organization/project-equity-capitalprovider-JCzVcWClick here to view the episode transcript. © Copyright 2025 Zolidar, Inc.Note: This podcast is not investment advice and is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host or Zolidar.LISTEN ON YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST APP:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5U2Y5MEglF9gORUTm5PoEcApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/why-a-bay-area-it-firm-made-the-transition-from/id1793273251?i=1000698910452YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WhVHuksMGDYAudible/Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/e9fe6479-8499-4a29-9b51-cc164d686d79/episodes/6698256b-be4a-4469-a5ae-dc7edfccb68f/bicycle-for-the-eo-mind-why-a-bay-area-it-firm-made-the-transition-from-owner-operated-to-worker-owned-to-secure-its-futureYouTube Music: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JMPJD1I37uw&list=PL8U8GQPqeIJh_1UfW234RmiPXJ6PYE1o1PocketCasts: https://play.pocketcasts.com/podcasts/62832590-c704-013d-7d6f-0affcdcd4ef3/96b63b6e-5b67-421c-8227-1707c070dd92Pandora:
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    46 mins
  • Austin Consulting Firm becomes a Worker Co-op | How the Business Owner Retired, Got a Fair Valuation & Benefited Employees

    Austin Consulting Firm becomes a Worker Co-op | How the Business Owner Retired, Got a Fair Valuation & Benefited Employees
    Feb 27 2025
    Meet Linda Wurzbach, who recently retired from a successful 12-person education consultancy using an employee ownership model. Resources for Learning’s path to a worker co-op showcases a successful transition and the win-win for Linda and her employees.In this episode you’ll hear about:Using revenue-based financing to make employee ownership work for their professional services businessLanding the exit - getting fair value while preserving her legacy and teamBringing several advisors together who worked together as a transition team The Resources for Learning team bloomed as they embraced democratic co-op culture and decision-makingClick here to watch this episode on the Zolidar Youtube Channel. MAILBAG | GET IN TOUCH WITH USWe'd love to feature your voice in an upcoming mailbag episode! Maybe you've got a question for us? You can leave us a voicemail at 650-203-6565, or if you prefer, send an email to social@zolidar.com. But remember, voicemails make for more engaging episodes—we want to hear your actual voice!ZOLIDAR LINKS:Home Page: https://zolidar.comPodcast: https://zolidar.com/podcastBlog: https://zolidar.com/blogZOLIDAR FEATURES:Day Zero Guide: https://zolidar.com/exit-plan-guideAha! Planner: https://zolidar.com/exit-financial-planZolid AI: https://zolidar.com/dashboard?zolidai=trueZOLIDAR SOCIAL MEDIA:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zolidar/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@zolidarX: https://x.com/zolidarInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/zolidar_comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/zolidarioCHAPTERS(00:00) - Introduction to Resources for Learning (02:53) - The Journey to Employee Ownership (05:18) - Exploring Co-op Models (07:50) - Valuation and Financial Considerations (10:11) - Building a Support Network (12:35) - Transitioning to a Worker Cooperative (14:19) - Employee Perspectives on Ownership (16:51) - Challenges of Managing Change (19:03) - Finalizing the Transition (21:36) - Looking Ahead: The Future of the Co-op (26:20) - Decision-Making Dynamics in Co-ops (30:03) - Qualities of Effective Advisors (32:39) - Navigating Financing Challenges (35:00) - Building Relationships with Lenders (38:26) - Employee Ownership and Board Dynamics (42:43) - Pain Points in Transitioning to Employee Ownership (46:58) - Encouragement for Future Business Owners (48:17) - Outro and Call to ActionCONNECT WITH RESOURCES FOR LEARNINGWebsite: https://www.resourcesforlearning.net/Zolidar Community: https://zolidar.com/community/organization/resources-for-learning-business-LvlDktREFERENCED IN THIS EPISODE:Linda Wurzbach (Founder, President; https://zolidar.com/community/person/linda-wurzbach-president-HugSzi)Annelies Lottmann (Director of the Texas Rural Cooperative Center at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley; https://zolidar.com/grid/person/annelies-lottmann-director-mj9T46)Allison Curtis (ICA Group; https://zolidar.com/community/person/allison-curtis--WmVglv)Jonathan Ward (Fund for Jobs Worth Owning; https://zolidar.com/community/person/jonathan-ward-director-of-lending-ceSnKw)Jacqueline Radebaugh (Jason Wiener|p.c.; https://zolidar.com/community/person/jacqueline-radebaugh--AxxMlq)Josh Glickenhaus (Local Enterprise Assistance Fund (LEAF); https://zolidar.com/grid/person/josh-glickenhaus-director-of-lending-and-operations-1mSee7)Project Equity (https://project-equity.org/)Click here to view the episode transcript. LINDA'S FAVORITE QUOTE“No one cares how much you know, until they know how much you care”― Theodore Roosevelt© Copyright 2025 Zolidar, Inc.‍Note: This podcast is not investment advice, and is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the guest(s) and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the host or Zolidar.LISTEN ON YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST APP:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/34FzNqj3WYqzTJLnylrb7RApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/austin-consulting-firm-becomes-a-worker-co-op-how/id1793273251?i=1000696575644 YouTube: https://youtu.be/CvrU7gH-0o0 Audible/Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/e9fe6479-8499-4a29-9b51-cc164d686d79/episodes/91167637-9657-4e77-a735-24e0906a385b/bicycle-for-the-eo-mind-austin-consulting-firm-becomes-a-worker-co-op-how-the-business-owner-retired-got-a-fair-valuation-benefited-employees YouTube Music: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T3eGesmSZZk&list=PL8U8GQPqeIJh_1UfW234RmiPXJ6PYE1o1PocketCasts: https://pca.st/episode/66c238aa-95c9-427f-bdf2-42789b855a3bPandora: https://www.pandora.com/podcast/bicycle-for-the-eo-mind/austin-consulting-firm-becomes-a-worker-co-op-how-the-business-owner-retired-got-a-fair-valuation-and-benefited-employees/PE:1317336015
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    49 mins