In 'Good to Great,' Jim Collins and his research team investigate why some companies achieve long-term greatness while others do not. The book identifies key concepts such as Level 5 Leadership, the Hedgehog Concept, a Culture of Discipline, and the Flywheel Effect. These principles are derived from a comprehensive study comparing companies that made the leap to greatness with those that did not. The research highlights that greatness is not primarily a function of circumstance but rather a result of conscious choice and discipline. The book provides practical insights and case studies to help businesses and leaders understand and apply these principles to achieve sustained greatness.
Jim Collins and Jerry Porras's "Built to Last" examines the characteristics of visionary companies, those that have sustained exceptional performance over long periods. The authors identify key principles that contribute to long-term success, including a strong core ideology, a focus on innovation, and a commitment to continuous improvement. They analyze a range of companies across various industries, identifying common patterns and best practices. The book provides valuable insights for leaders seeking to build enduring and successful organizations. "Built to Last" has become a classic in the field of business strategy.
Jiro Dreams of Sushi is a documentary film that follows the life and work of Jiro Ono, an 85-year-old sushi chef who owns a Michelin three-star restaurant in Tokyo. The film explores Ono's dedication to his craft, his demanding work ethic, and his close relationship with his family. It also delves into the history and culture of sushi, and the importance of tradition and perfection in Japanese cuisine. The film's intimate portrayal of Ono's life and work has resonated with audiences worldwide, making it a critical and commercial success. It has also inspired many aspiring chefs and food enthusiasts to pursue their passions with the same level of dedication and commitment.
Dave Whorton's book challenges Silicon Valley's 'get big fast' mentality by advocating for Evergreen companies that prioritize long-term stability, profitability, and purpose over rapid scaling. Drawing from his experience as a venture capitalist and entrepreneur, Whorton presents the Evergreen 7Ps® framework to help leaders create businesses that endure through People First principles and mission-driven strategies. The book combines personal narrative with practical advice, featuring real-world examples of companies successfully implementing this approach.
What If You Built a Business That Could Outlive You?
I sit down today with Dave Whorton, and let me tell you—this conversation is one of the most important ones you’ll hear if you’re serious about building something meaningful. We’re living in a time where entrepreneurship looks more like a sprint to an exit than a commitment to lasting impact. Dave’s new book, Another Way: Building Companies That Last and Last and Last, challenges that broken model and reminds us: success isn't just about cashing out—it's about building something worth keeping.
We break down what it really takes to create an "evergreen" company—one that’s not built to flip, but built to matter. Dave shares the 7 P’s that every sustainable business needs: Purpose, Perseverance, People First, Profits, Privately Held, Pace Growth, and Pragmatic Innovation. He hits home the idea that growth doesn’t mean chaos—done right, it compounds over time and actually gets easier, more joyful, and more impactful. You’re not racing to the exit—you’re building a legacy.
One of the biggest mind shifts we talk about: you don’t have to sell your business for it to be valuable. You don't need $100M in funding to be "legit." Some of the strongest companies—Amazon, Microsoft, Apple—started with almost no venture capital compared to today’s standards. Real strength comes from a strong foundation, scrappy innovation, and a relentless commitment to people and purpose over hype.
I walk away from this conversation fired up because this is real entrepreneurship. It’s the quiet work of building families, communities, and lives that stand the test of time. It’s not just about business. It's about living a life you’re proud of—and leaving something behind that’s bigger than you.
Key Takeaways:
You don’t have to follow the crowd. You can build something timeless.
Max out.
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