Episode Description: In this episode of The Freedom Experience, I sit down with Peter Koehler, founder of Lumo Group, to explore alternative ownership models that help businesses endure beyond their founders. Peter shares his journey from the startup world to becoming a leader in employee ownership trusts and perpetual purpose trusts. We discuss the risks of traditional venture capital, the challenges of scaling with integrity, and how business owners can transition ownership while preserving their company’s values.

🎥 Watch this conversation on YouTube. And SUBSCRIBE!

🔹 The Pitfalls of Traditional Capital:
Peter shares his experience in a startup where investor expectations clashed with business sustainability, leading him to explore alternative ownership structures.

🔹 Employee Ownership Trusts vs. ESOPs:
He breaks down the differences between ESOPs (Employee Stock Ownership Plans), Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs), and Perpetual Purpose Trusts (PPTs)—and which structure best aligns with different business goals.

🔹 Designing Your Ownership Transition:
What should business owners consider when planning a transition? Peter explains how trust-based models can align business longevity with employee well-being.

🔹 The Leadership and Cultural Shift:
Transitioning to an ownership trust isn’t just about financials—it requires a shift in governance, leadership, and company culture.

🔹 Financing the Transition:
How can businesses fund an ownership transition? Peter discusses self-financing, external debt, and hybrid models that enable a smooth transition.

🔹 Why More Business Owners Are Considering Trust Models:
With millions of business owners over 55 facing succession challenges, Peter explains why more founders are looking at ownership trusts as an alternative to private equity or strategic sales.

💬 “If you don’t design your ownership transition, someone else will do it for you.”
💬 “A trust structure allows a business to exist beyond its founder, preserving its mission and protecting employees.”
💬 “Freedom is about ownership and autonomy—having control over how your day unfolds.”

• Learn more about Lumo Group: Website link
• Peter’s conversation on 21 Hats: Podcast link
• Connect with Peter Koehler on LinkedIn: LinkedIn link

✔️ Start by clarifying your goals—what do you want your business to stand for after you step away?
✔️ Understand the different ownership models and how they impact governance, leadership, and culture.
✔️ If you're considering an ownership transition, engage with an expert early to map out your options.

🎧 If this episode resonated with you, subscribe, share, and leave a review. For more insights on building a purpose-driven business, visit my website at jeanmoncrieff.com.