EP327 Rethinking Succession - Why Employee Ownership Might Be your Legacy Move

With over $2 trillion in business assets at stake and 91% of Canadian business owners without a succession plan, we’re facing a real crisis. In this episode, host Colleen O’Connell-Campbell chats with Charlie Iscoe, whose venture - CommonShares - is flipping the script on business exits.

 

Charlie brings Wall Street investment experience and a mission to keep Canadian businesses local by transitioning ownership to employees. He explains how their model allows retiring owners to receive fair market value while protecting their teams and communities.

 

If you’re a founder who says, “I’ll deal with it eventually” - this episode is your wake-up call.

 

🔑 Key Highlights

 

The succession gap in Canada: 91% of business owners have no plan in place.

The CommonShares model: Founders get paid a fair price, and ownership transitions gradually to employees.

Why it matters: Preserves legacy, protects jobs, and keeps Canadian companies Canadian.

Types of businesses they acquire: Light manufacturing, professional services (architecture, engineering, accounting), property services, etc.

The people factor: How a bench of 100+ operators helps ensure continuity post-exit.

What founders can do now: Start documenting what matters - financial goals, legacy values, level of future involvement.

💬 Fun, Frank Advice from Charlie

 

“If you’re listening to this, it’s probably because you’ve built something remarkable. So don’t let your exit be an afterthought. Take time. Get it right. This isn’t just a transaction - it’s your legacy.”

 

Want to explore your own succession plan?

Colleen offers a complimentary 1:1 Wealth Gap Analysis - to bridge the gap between your business success and personal financial freedom.
👉 Connect on LinkedIn - Colleen O’Connell-Campbell - or email to book your session.

 

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The Cash Rich Exit Podcast is brought to you by O’Connell-Campbell Wealth Management at RBC Dominion Securities.

 

All opinions expressed by the host, Colleen O’Connell-Campbell, and podcast guests are solely their own opinions and do not reflect the opinion of RBC Dominion Securities.

 

This podcast is for informational purposes only before taking any action based on information in this podcast you should consult with a qualified professional.

 

Colleen O’Connell-Campbell is a Wealth Advisor at RBC Dominion Securities, a member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund.