On with Kara Swisher Lessons on Capitalism from Patagonia’s Reluctant Billionaire
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Oct 30, 2025 In this conversation, David Gelles, a New York Times reporter and author of 'Dirtbag Billionaire,' dives into the remarkable journey of Patagonia's founder, Yvon Chouinard. Gelles discusses how Chouinard redefined capitalism with sustainability in mind, contrasting it with tech billionaires. He explores Patagonia’s struggle between the mission and product development, tackles the pressing issues of greenwashing, and reveals the innovative ownership structure that ensures profits benefit the environment. Plus, hear thoughts on the role of AI in corporate responsibility.
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Ownership Enables Values-First Choices
- Patagonia avoided external shareholders and never took outside funding, which let it act on values instead of quarterly pressures.
- That ownership freedom enabled long-term environmental and labor choices other firms rarely sustain.
Humble Origin In A Tin Shed
- Yvon Chouinard started making climbing gear on an anvil in a junkyard and sold to friends in the climbing community.
- That garage-to-tin-shed origin shaped Patagonia's craftsmanship-first culture and
Radical Product-Level Honesty
- Patagonia embraced radical self-awareness by admitting "everything we make pollutes" in its 1993 catalog.
- That honesty framed a company strategy of continuous incremental improvements rather than greenwashing.
