Journey to an ESOP & Beyond
ESOPs are gaining traction. In the "Journey to an ESOP & Beyond” podcast, Jason Miller and Makenzie Wirth explain the process of the ESOP transaction and address ESOPs from a business owner's perspective. They illuminate the simplicity of ESOPs and debunk common misconceptions that ESOPs are immensely costly and complicated.
Journey to an ESOP & Beyond
EP1 - Continuity Through Change
Season 7 kicks off with a simple truth: change is inevitable, but being unprepared is a choice. In this premiere episode, Jason sets the stage with Continuity Through Change, diving into what this season has in store: navigating leadership in motion, building foundations that endure through transitions, and uncovering the emotional dynamics that often shape ownership decisions.
H1: Continuity Through Change
Episode Summary
Season 7 kicks off with a simple truth: change is inevitable, but being unprepared is a choice. In this premiere episode, Jason sets the stage with Continuity Through Change, diving into what this season has in store: navigating leadership in motion, building foundations that endure through transitions, and uncovering the emotional dynamics that often shape ownership decisions.
This episode is essential for business owners, leaders, and advisors who want to prepare for change before it forces their hand. Listeners will walk away with actionable insights on succession planning, governance, leadership identity, and employee ownership—helping them make deliberate decisions in uncertain times.
Key Topics Covered
- Preparing for change and ownership transitions
- Leadership identity and responsibility
- Emotional mechanics of ownership decisions
- ESOPs, governance, and succession planning
- Building foundations for long-term continuity
Transcript
Below is the full transcript of this episode, lightly edited for clarity and readability.
H2: Introduction: Continuity Through Change
Jason Miller:
Welcome to Season 7 of the Journey to an ESOP and Beyond podcast. Over the last year, this podcast and the work behind it has evolved—not because the mission changed, but because change is part of the mission. Season 7 is about helping owners think clearly, act deliberately, and prepare for what they can’t fully predict. I’m Jason Miller, and I’m glad you’re here. Let’s get started.
H2: The Reality of Change
Jason Miller:
There’s a phrase you’ve likely heard before: the only constant is change. Most owners nod and go back to building something permanent. But what happens when permanence is an illusion? This season explores what strong owners do instead.
H2: Evolution of the Podcast
Jason Miller:
If you’ve been listening, you may have noticed some changes: weekly releases, a new cadence, and a second consistent voice, McKenzie, joining me alongside Phillip from previous seasons. Change—even positive change—demands something before it gives anything back.
H2: When the Ground Moves
Jason Miller:
Every owner eventually faces moments when the ground shifts before they feel ready. Sometimes it’s operational, personal, or structural—and often, all three at once. This season’s work sits in that space between stability and motion.
H2: Foundations on Transition
Jason Miller:
We’re introducing the Foundations on Transition series. It’s not a checklist; it’s a way of thinking about ownership before decisions are forced. Each piece is released deliberately, so you can engage when it’s relevant—not urgent.
Topics we’ll cover include:
- ESOPs and succession
- Governance and leadership evolution
- Ownership identity and responsibility
- The emotional mechanics behind decisions
H2: Emotional Mechanics
Jason Miller:
We spend time on the part many advisers skip—the emotional mechanics that often cause owners to get stuck.
H2: Our Commitment
Jason Miller:
One thing remains unchanged: this podcast exists to make complex ideas around employee ownership understandable, accessible, and usable. We’ll explain the why, not just the what, staying grounded in real owner experiences. Season 7 is about choosing preparation for a lifetime of transitions.
H2: How to Engage
Jason Miller:
Subscribe and listen weekly. Choose a fellow owner or founder to listen alongside you, share episodes, and extend the conversation beyond the podcast. Change doesn’t pause, and neither should your discussions about it.
H2: Closing
Jason Miller:
Thanks for listening. I’m excited about what Season 7 will bring—not just to you, but to everyone influenced by your decisions. I’ll talk to you next week on Journey to an ESOP and Beyond.
H2: Final Takeaways
- Change is inevitable, but being unprepared is optional.
- Strong owners build foundations that endure through transitions.
- Emotional mechanics often determine whether ownership decisions succeed or stall.
H2: Resources & Next Steps
- Explore upcoming episodes in the Foundations on Transition series.
- Listen to the podcast: 🎧 https://www.journeytoanesop.com/podcast/episode/805d5cdb/ep2-foundations-of-transition-intent-and-ownership-vision
