Jenna Johnson, President of Patagonia Inc, discusses the groundbreaking decision to make Earth the company's sole shareholder, marking a revolutionary shift in corporate responsibility. She delves into the philosophical and economic implications of this bold move on capitalism. The conversation highlights Patagonia's journey toward sustainability, the establishment of the Patagonia Purpose Trust, and the innovative Holdfast Collective for philanthropic initiatives. Jenna also emphasizes the necessity of rethinking capitalism to prioritize environmental sustainability and community well-being.
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insights INSIGHT
Patagonia's Activism and Evolution
Patagonia's evolution involved pioneering recycled materials and the "Don't Buy This Jacket" campaign.
Their activism influenced the outdoor and fashion industries, leading to B Corp status and a purpose statement focused on saving the planet.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Chouinard's Unintentional Business Success
Yvon Chouinard, Patagonia's founder, never wanted to be a businessman but became a successful one.
He built Patagonia into a $3 billion company, a substantial amount to give away.
insights INSIGHT
Patagonia's Three-Entity Structure
Patagonia's new structure involves three entities: the Purpose Trust, Holdfast Collective, and Patagonia Inc.
This setup aims to maintain the company's values, distribute profits for environmental causes, and continue business operations.
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This book delves into Patagonia's unique approach to business, emphasizing environmental and social responsibility. It explores the company's values, decision-making processes, and commitment to creating a positive impact. The authors share their experiences and insights, offering valuable lessons for other organizations seeking to integrate purpose into their operations. The book highlights Patagonia's journey, from a small climbing equipment company to a global brand, showcasing how a strong culture can drive both business success and positive change. It emphasizes the importance of aligning business practices with core values and the long-term benefits of prioritizing sustainability and social responsibility.
Let my people go surfing
The Education of a Reluctant Businessman
Yvon Chouinard
This book tells the story of Yvon Chouinard, who brought doing good and having grand adventures into the heart of his business life. It details his journey from his youth as the son of a French Canadian handyman to his ambitious climbing expeditions that inspired his innovative designs for climbing equipment. The book also explores how Chouinard built Patagonia into one of the most respected and environmentally responsible companies, emphasizing the importance of sustainability, personal growth, and unconventional business practices.
Donut Economics
Seven Ways to Think Like a 21st-Century Economist
Kate Raworth
Kate Raworth's "Doughnut Economics" proposes a new economic model that prioritizes social and ecological well-being. It challenges the traditional focus on GDP growth, advocating for a system that operates within planetary boundaries while ensuring a minimum standard of living for all. The model is visualized as a doughnut, with an inner ring representing social needs and an outer ring representing ecological limits. Raworth's work has gained significant attention, influencing discussions on sustainable development and economic justice. The book offers a compelling alternative to conventional economic thinking, emphasizing the interconnectedness of social and environmental issues.
“Going purpose, not going public.”
Patagonia’s September 2022 decisions to make ‘Earth’ the company’s only shareholder was huge news, particularly in the worlds of climate activism, business, philanthropy, the outdoors, and action sports.
Here was the most influential company in the outdoor world, and one of the most influential businesses on the planet per se, relinquishing control of their profits for the greater good.
But … what did this actually mean? Why did the company do it? How was the decision made? Who was involved?
And is this really a critical moment in the history of capitalism, as Patagonia believe?
The Announcement is a new three-part podcast documentary series from Looking Sideways, hosted by Matt Barr.
Episode 2 will be released on Monday January 20th.
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