250924 | John Abrams

Intro

Welcome to the Alternative Exit

Today we are joined by a visionary entrepreneur and author, who’s book Companies We Keep: has changed the trajectory of my life.

John Abrams is the co-founder and CEO of South Mountain Company, a design/build and renewable energy firm based on Martha’s Vineyard that became employee-owned in 1987.

During that transition he demonstrated that ownership and responsibility can be shared, fostering stronger businesses and healthier communities.

Today, we’ll dive into John’s remarkable journey, the transformative power of workplace democracy and how he is working to reshape business ownership and explore .

John, welcome to the Alternative Exit!

Early Journey and Founding South Mountain Company:

What inspired you to start South Mountain Company, and how did your vision for employee ownership take root in the early years?

(This can lead into his story of how the company evolved from a traditional business to an employee-owned firm.)

What were the key turning points that led South Mountain to transition to employee ownership in 1987?

(Allows him to reflect on the decision-making process and challenges in restructuring the company.)

Themes from Companies We Keep:

What were the biggest challenges

Ownership makes a difference. internatlising the message was a challenge

Bringin peopele up to speed in an adhoc way. They have a path to ownership

In Companies We Keep, you talk about the concept of ‘communities of enterprise.’ Could you explain what this means and how it’s shaped your business philosophy?

Maintin there sense of place.

One of the eight principles you discuss in your book is ‘Thinking Like Cathedral Builders.’ Could you share why you think that is so important today and how long-term thinking has shaped South Mountain’s culture?

From Founder to Future

The story of a particular journey. The 2nd edition is about how it fits into a bigger picture

Full of stories

Directed at the 3 million business in the next 15 years

Broader Impact and Future Outlook:

What do you see as the biggest benefits of employee ownership, not just for employees, but for communities as a whole?

(This opens the conversation to broader societal impacts, beyond just business outcomes.)

30-60s labour. unions increased wages and benefits for people

With so many businesses transitioning ownership in the coming decades, what advice would you give to those considering an employee-owned model?

(A practical question that taps into the relevance of his insights for today’s business environment.)

Reflections and Personal Insights:

Looking back, what has been the most rewarding aspect of building a company centered on shared ownership and democracy?

(Encourages a reflective response on his personal and professional journey.)

Bo BUrlingha,,

Incredible community of people nationwide

Personal side

Fast round

Fast round of questions. I ask you a 3 questions and you offer a quick response. Does that sound ok?

Who is the leader you most admire in EO? Bill McGibbon.

What is your favourite resource on employee ownership. Employee Ownership/workplace democrozcy, Mark Hand

What would you say to an business owner sitting on the fence re: employee ownership

Thank you.

Thank you so much for your time and sharing your thoughts with us today.

Where can people follow you if they would like to learn more?

A monthly blog - companies we keep.com

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