Storyteller's Breakfast: Direct Employee Ownership – In Their Own Words

Designed for business owners, leaders, and professional service providers who support business owners through growth, succession, and talent challenges, this gathering offers a chance to learn through real stories rather than formal presentations. The session will be a storyteller-style conversation rooted in real-world decisions and authentic perspectives from leaders who have transitioned to, or are actively pursuing, direct employee ownership. What to Expect: • Business owners sharing why they chose direct employee ownership – and what surprised them along the way • Insight into how this model differs from ESOPs and other transition/succession approaches • An open and collaborative dialogue with attendees to ask questions, discuss, and learn more • A complimentary copy of Direct Employee Ownership: Building a Culture and Legacy of Shared Success Storytellers: The conversation will be facilitated by Heather Valudes, President & CEO of the Lancaster Chamber, and will feature: • Ben Mitten, Founder & CEO, Nuclei Data • John Esh, CEO/Co-Owner, Joyland Roofing & Exteriors • Chip Cargas, Founder & Board Chair, Tandem, Founder & Retired CEO, Cargas, and co-author of the NCEO book on direct employee ownership • Drew Mousetis, Executive Director, Tandem, and co-author of the NCEO book on direct employee ownership This is an opportunity to step away from presentations and into conversation. Join fellow leaders for a thoughtful, in-room discussion that encourages curiosity, questions, and shared learning around ownership, people, and legacy. We’d be glad to have you at the table.