In this episode, Tommy D sits down with Marie Davis and Matthew Epperson from the Georgia Center for Employee Ownership (GACEO) to unpack how business owners can use succession planning to keep companies, jobs, and legacies in their communities. They outline the three major models of broad-based employee ownership—ESOPs (a regulated retirement trust invested in the company), worker cooperatives (direct ownership with patronage profit sharing), and employee ownership trusts (EOTs) (mission-driven trusts that share value broadly)—and explain when each fits. Key clarifications: employees don’t pay to join an ESOP, governance typically remains with a board, and sellers may access tax advantages such as a §1042 capital-gains rollover (for ESOPs and co-ops). The conversation anchors these ideas in the “silver tsunami” of boomer-owned businesses and why proactive planning preserves local economies.

Marie and Matthew share real-world examples: Clegg Auto’s EOT-backed expansion that kept Augusta’s Regency Auto open with the same team and a new profit-sharing purpose trust; the growth of Love Is Love Cooperative Farm from five founders to 20 employees; and Athens-based JOMA Construction, which went 100% ESOP early, aligning a young workforce around long-term wealth building and retention. Beyond the why and how, they highlight practical on-ramps for owners and advisors—GACEO’s Employee Ownership Ambassador Program and Exit Pro 101—and point to a national ecosystem of state centers (via EOX) that can match companies with experienced legal, accounting, valuation, and financing partners.

If you’re a founder, CFO/CPA, exit planner, or community leader exploring alternatives to traditional M&A, this episode shows how to transition ownership to employees, protect culture, and keep profits local. Learn more at GACEO.org and connect with Tommy D to continue the conversation.

• Discover how Smile Farms connects agriculture with advocacy

• Learn how meaningful employment creates lifelong impact

• Be inspired by Steve’s personal and professional journey—from global brands to grassroots change

🍽️ This Friday on Philanthropy in Phocus with Tommy DiMisa #InTheAttic

We’re planting seeds of purpose and possibility with Steve McDermott, Managing Director of Smile Farms, an organization redefining inclusion through meaningful work opportunities for people with developmental disabilities. 🌱✨

This week, we explore “Harvesting Dignity, Growing Futures.” From his early days at Unilever and PepsiCo to leading strategic impact at Smile Farms, Steve’s journey is rooted in passion, innovation, and purpose. Join us for a conversation about employment, empowerment, and how farms are cultivating more than just crops—they’re cultivating community.

🕙 Tune in Friday, October 24th at 10 AM EST to hear how Smile Farms is transforming lives—one job, one person, one harvest at a time. 🎧

✨ Why listen?

• Learn how QCP supports individuals across all stages of life

• Hear what’s changing—and what must change—in the field of disability services

• Be inspired by a legacy of advocacy, inclusion, and hands-on leadership

🍫 This Friday on Philanthropy in Phocus with Tommy DiMisa #InTheAttic

We’re joined by Terri Ross, Executive Director of Queens Centers for Progress (QCP), a pioneering organization empowering people with developmental disabilities for over 75 years. From preschoolers to older adults, QCP’s programs support more than 1,500 individuals in living full, independent lives. 💼💙

This week’s episode, “Progress with Purpose,” explores the evolving landscape of disability services and what it truly means to foster inclusion, dignity, and joy in our communities.

🕙 Tune in Friday, July 26th at 10 AM EST to hear how QCP continues to lead with compassion, adaptability, and person-centered care.

Organization: Queens Centers for Progress

Website: www.queenscp.org

Facebook: www.facebook.com\Queenscp

Instagram: @QueensCP

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/queenscp

#QueensCentersForProgress #DevelopmentalDisabilities #InclusionMatters #InTheAttic #CommunityEmpowerment #DisabilityRights

Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc