Discover how Evergreen companies build lasting success with purpose, people-first values, and long-term thinking. Insights from Bo Burlingham.
Read time: 4.43 minutes.
Read this on: jeanmoncrieff.com
What's in store for today:
- Building a business that lasts
- Six habits of highly productive CEOs
- Zillow sticks to remote work—and it's paying off
Hey There,
Growth. Profit. Scale.
We hear these words everywhere in the business world—often with the message that bigger is always better.
But what if the real secret to success isn’t about chasing endless growth, but about building something that lasts?
This week on The Freedom Experience, I talk to friend and mentor Bo Burlingham, the author of Small Giants, Finish Big, and the soon-to-be-released Another Way.
Bo has spent decades studying businesses that choose greatness over growth—companies that focus on long-term impact, strong relationships, and a clear sense of purpose.
As Bo puts it:
“Growth for growth's sake isn't the answer. Great companies know what matters most and stick to it”
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🎙️ In this episode, we explore:
- Why some businesses resist the pressure to grow for growth's sake—and thrive because of it.
- The seven principles that define Evergreen businesses and help them last for generations.
- How to create a company culture that retains its magic, even through leadership changes.
🎧 Listen to the full conversation on The Freedom Experience:
Apple Podcasts | Spotify
2. Building a business that lasts
What does it take to build a company that lasts for generations?
In a world fixated on rapid growth and quick exits, Evergreen companies offer a different path—one rooted in long-term thinking and real relationships.
What Are Evergreen Companies?
Evergreen companies are built to last. They reject the chase for short-term gains, choosing instead to focus on enduring success. These companies live by seven principles:
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Purpose: A clear, meaningful reason for existing beyond profit.
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People First: Valuing employees, customers, and partners as essential.
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Perseverance: The grit to stick with it through tough times.
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Private: Staying privately held to make decisions without outside pressure.
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Profit: Seeing profit as a sign of customer satisfaction, not the end goal.
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Paced Growth: Growing at a steady, thoughtful pace.
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Pragmatic Innovation: Innovating based on real customer needs, not hype.
These principles help companies build value that lasts and maintain their mojo—that distinctive energy that makes people want to be part of their story.
Why Mojo Matters
Companies with mojo have a natural draw. Employees want to work there. Customers want to buy from them. Partners want to collaborate.
Mojo is like charisma for a business—it makes people want to be part of your story.” - Bo Burlingham
This isn’t achieved through clever branding—it comes from genuine relationships and a strong identity.
Bo shared examples like Radio Flyer and Springfield Remanufacturing Corp. These companies stay true to what makes them special.
The Role of Ownership in Longevity
Who owns a business matters. Bo pointed out that the companies best at holding onto their mojo are usually family-owned or employee-owned.
Family businesses pass down vision and values across generations.
Employee-owned companies often use open-book management, giving everyone a stake and a sense of responsibility.
Why Evergreen Companies Matter Today
Evergreen companies show a different side of capitalism. In our conversation, Bo explained that the traits people dislike about capitalism—like greed and exploitation—are more common in businesses chasing short-term profits. Evergreen companies, by contrast, build strong communities, treat people well, and still make money.
What You Can Do
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Define Your Purpose: Be clear on why your business exists beyond making money.
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Invest in People: Create an environment where people feel valued.
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Think Long-Term: Resist the urge to chase quick wins.
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Innovate with Care: Improve what matters most to your customers.
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Consider Ownership: Think about how ownership affects your culture.
Evergreen companies show that success doesn’t come from size or speed. It comes from knowing who you are and what you stand for and staying true to your vision.
Build that kind of business, and it just might outlast you.
2. Six habits of highly productive CEOs
In this week’s video, I break down 6 daily habits that the most productive CEOs practice to stay focused, make better decisions, and lead their businesses without burnout.
From time-blocking to using the Eisenhower Matrix to prioritize tasks by urgency and importance, these habits can help you focus on what matters most, protect your time for deep work, and build a high-performing, growth-focused company.
Ready to take control of your time and focus on what truly moves the needle?
Watch the video below to learn how to apply these productivity strategies to your day.
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LIVE in Dublin: Foundation for Business Growth
THIS WEEK: Join me in Dublin for the Metronomics Foundation for Business Growth event; tickets are nearly sold out—bring your leadership team and secure your spot now!
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3. Zillow Sticks to Remote Work—and It's Paying Off
I read this week about Zillow's decision to stay fully remote, even as big names like Amazon and JPMorgan push for a return to the office.
CEO Jeremy Wacksman shared that remote work has been a game-changer for Zillow.
Since going remote-first five years ago, job applications have quadrupled, with talent joining from all 50 states.
Employee engagement has hit new highs, thanks to the flexibility that lets people manage work alongside personal commitments, like school pickups.
Concerns about culture and collaboration?
Zillow tackles this with regular in-person gatherings that foster connections while maintaining the daily freedom of remote work.
Wacksman sees no reason to change what works. The company's bigger mission is to become the go-to platform for real estate transactions—buying, selling, and financing homes—all within their app.
For business owners weighing similar decisions, Zillow's success offers a clear takeaway: flexible work, done right, can attract talent, boost retention, and maintain strong culture.
Read the full article here: Zillow's Remote Work Strategy.
One quote to start the week strong
“Evergreen businesses aren’t afraid to go against the grain. They prioritize people and purpose over short-term profits.” — Bo Burlingham
Evergreen businesses aren’t afraid to go against the grain.
They prioritize people and purpose over short-term profits—and that mindset matters more than ever.
In a world of uncertainty, it's easy to follow the crowd, chase quick wins, or stick to traditional exit paths.
But what if we built companies designed to last?
Companies that outlive us, with teams capable of carrying the purpose forward.
The path less trodden might just lead to something greater: a legacy that stands the test of time.
Have a great week!
- Jean
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