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Ice Cream Social

The Struggle for the Soul of Ben & Jerry's

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Ice Cream Social

By: Brad Edmondson, Jeff Furman - epilogue, Annie Leonard - foreword
Narrated by: Brad Edmondson
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About this listen

Ben & Jerry's has always been committed to an insanely ambitious three-part mission: Making the world's best ice cream, supporting progressive causes, and sharing the company's success with all stakeholders: employees, suppliers, distributors, customers, cows, everybody. But it hasn't been easy.

This is the first book to tell the full, inside story of the inspiring rise, tragic mistakes, devastating fall, determined recovery, and ongoing renewal of one of the most iconic mission-driven companies in the world. No previous book has focused so intently on the challenges presented by staying true to that mission. No other book has explained how the company came to be sold to corporate giant Unilever or how that relationship evolved to allow Ben & Jerry's to pursue its mission on a much larger stage.

Journalist Brad Edmondson tells the story with an eye for details, dramatic moments, and memorable characters. He interviewed dozens of key figures, particularly Jeff Furman, who helped Ben and Jerry write their first business plan in 1978 and became chairman of the board in 2010. It's a funny, sad, surprising, and ultimately hopeful story.

©2014 Brad Edmonson (P)2014 Brad Edmonson Business Development & Entrepreneurship Entrepreneurship Management Management & Leadership Business Inspiring Leadership
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Before I picked up this book all I knew about B&J was that they made VERY nice ice cream, well I was in for a massive surprise.
A social conscious company that has been around for decades and practices what it preaches.
I even sought them out on social media, and what do you know, they are still sticking with their values despite being brought out by a much bigger company (which in itself is a fascinating story that is in the book).
Anyone that wants to have their point of view adjusted on “big corporations” and fancies being pleasantly surprised in a feel good way should listen to this book.
It also delves deep into the usual business of leadership and management but with some surprising strategies and outcomes.
Highly recommend this book.

Ben and Jerry’s = Best in Class!

Enthralling Story About a Unique Company

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it gives a few great insights into the basic economics of the consumer goods industry.

fantastic book

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