In this episode, Jason and Makenzie sit down with Steve Thornton and Eric Harris of Monte Sano Research Corporation (MSRC) to discuss the company’s evolution to employee ownership. They reflect on their company’s journey to an ESOP and how succession was intentionally embodied well before the formal transition, and the cultural foundations that made ESOP alignment a natural fit. The conversation also explores how employee ownership can bridge founders to successors, along with candid advice for leaders considering this path, including preparation, key decisions, and lessons learned along the way.

In this episode, Makenzie and Jason explore how anyone, regardless of title or department, can create enterprise value from their seat in the company. In an employee-owned environment, revenue generation isn’t limited to sales roles; it’s a mindset rooted in ownership. They break down how every function contributes to profitability and long-term value, and how both extroverts and introverts can leverage their unique strengths to drive impact. If you’ve ever wondered how your role ties to the bigger financial picture, this conversation will challenge you to think and act like an owner.

In this episode, Jason and Makenzie dive into everyone’s favorite word — equity — and examine what it really means beyond payouts and financial rewards. They explore how equity extends far beyond cash, defining it instead through fairness, ownership value, and property such as home equity. They also explore the responsibilities, risks, and long-term mindset that come with equity ownership, highlighting how equity represents control, alignment, and time horizon. Whether you are a business owner or simply curious about how equity works, this episode delivers a thoughtful perspective on what it truly means to have a stake in something — and why that stake matters.

In this episode, Jason and Makenzie continue “The Foundations of Transition” series by highlighting the courage it takes to transition a company and its leadership. Each workshop-style episode builds on the last, offering practical guidance to help business owners move forward with confidence.

This second foundation explores what should be included in a thoughtful transition plan and how leaders can focus on long-term vision rather than falling into fear. Jason and Makenzie discuss how intentional planning, clear direction, and courageous decision-making can shape a successful future for both owners and their organizations.

In this episode, Jason Miller explores the unsettling feeling of being enrolled in a college class you never signed up for — and suddenly realizing you are expected to know the subject matter. The fear and overwhelm hit hard. For many business owners, that is exactly what business succession planning and ESOP transitions can feel like. He explains how that anxiety often stems from delayed awareness, not a lack of effort or responsibility.

Jason reframes what “readiness” really means — not mastery or having all the answers, but awareness and orientation. By recognizing the “class” early and naming what truly matters, business owners can navigate succession planning, employee stock ownership plan (ESOP) transitions, and long-term exit planning with greater clarity, confidence, and control.

What truly drives a successful ESOP transaction? In this episode, Jason Miller sits down with Pete Schuler, Senior Vice President and Head of Consulting at Blue Ridge, to share insights from more than 30 years of specialized ESOP advisory and consulting experience.

A trusted advisor on ESOP transactions and compliance, Pete has worked with companies across every stage of the ESOP lifecycle. Together, he and Jason explore the key “R’s” of an ESOP transaction, highlighting critical considerations around plan design, compliance, and transaction readiness. Drawing on his experience advising business owners, collaborating with investment banks, and leading complex ESOP projects, Pete offers practical guidance for business owners and advisors navigating ESOP planning and execution.

In this episode, Makenzie Wirth interviews Joe Jones, Audit Partner at Berman Hopkins. As lead of the firm’s Construction Advisory Services Team, Joe shares his perspective on the recent trend of construction companies transitioning ownership to ESOPs. From audit considerations, valuation risks, bonding, backlog quality, governance, and jobsite culture, Makenzie and Joe provide practical advice for construction owners considering employee ownership.

Listen to this episode to understand how ESOPs impact construction businesses and get actionable guidance for your company’s transition.

In this episode of the Journey to an ESOP podcast, Jason Miller and Makenzie Wirth kick off The Foundations of Transition, a monthly series focused on owner readiness. Each workshop-style episode builds on the last, creating a practical framework to guide business owners through a successful ownership transition.

This first foundation explores owner identity and readiness, helping business owners define their vision, align decisions with their values, and plan for a successful ownership transition. Understanding your identity is critical, as it shapes not only who your business is today, but also what it becomes after transition.