What do core values, employee ownership, and craft beer have in common? 

Today on the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Dan Kenary, CEO and Co-Founder of Harpoon Brewery, a Boston-based craft brewery. Harpoon Brewery was founded in 1986 on a strong foundation of values and mission. Today, Harpoon Brewery is a shining example of a Small Giant — the company has nearly $60 million in revenue and is employee-owned through an ESOP (employee stock ownership program). For Dan, it all comes down to embracing a principles-first approach that puts people at the center of the business. As Harpoon Brewery sets its sights on achieving a second ESOP transaction, learn the strategies and systems that help keep the business on track and empower employees to feel and act like owners.

In this episode, hear how Harpoon Brewery brings its company motto "Love Beer. Love Life" to life through mission-driven ownership and strategic commitment to core values. Tune into Dan's story below:  

Show Notes 

[2:01] Starting a Company Over Late Night Beers

[5:12] $60 Million in Revenue & Employee-Owned

[12:52] Rejecting the 'Burn and Churn' Model

[15:41] The Secret to Great Partnerships

[19:54] Becoming an ESOP

[24:26] The Politics of Employee Ownership

[29:40] How to Achieve a Second ESOP Transaction

[34:03] The Unexpected Upside of Debt

[36:58] Whatever You Do, Don't Work with Jerks