Why do good companies lose their humanity? In this episode of Passion Struck, John R. Miles sits down with entrepreneur, author, and Lean Startup creator Eric Ries to explore a growing crisis hiding in plain sight: why so many people no longer trust the institutions that shape their lives. From global corporations and banks to everyday organizations, many entities begin with a clear mission to serve but gradually drift away from the core values that made them meaningful in the first place.

Drawing from his groundbreaking new book, Incorruptible: Why Good Companies Go Bad and How Great Companies Stay Great, Eric explains how mission-driven organizations become vulnerable to "financial gravity"—the powerful systemic force that slowly pulls leaders away from long-term value creation and toward short-term extraction. Together, John and Eric examine why trust is the most valuable asset an organization can possess, how successful companies lose their soul, and what leaders can do to build institutions that remain aligned with their purpose for generations.

Through the lens of real-world stories involving Costco, HEB, FedMart, Silicon Valley Bank, Walmart, Microsoft, and Amazon, this conversation reveals why organizational trust is eroding across society and what it takes to create companies that people genuinely believe in.

In this episode, you will learn:

• The hidden force of financial gravity and how it quietly reshapes organizational behavior.
• Why organizations routinely lose their humanity as they become more successful.
• The tragic story of Sol Price, FedMart, and the governance secrets that protect Costco today.
• The critical operational difference between shareholder primacy and mission primacy.
• Why Silicon Valley Bank’s collapse offers vital lessons about corporate purpose and integrity.
• The concept of the invisible leader and why shared purpose shapes behavior more powerfully than hierarchy. Practical blueprints for founders, executives, entrepreneurs, and leaders who want to build organizations that endure without losing their soul.

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Full Show Notes

Download the companion Substack Article and Workbook

Learn More About Eric Ries: https://www.ericries.com

Get Eric's New Book: Incorruptible: Why Good Companies Go Bad and How Great Companies Stay Great

Connect with John

• Pre-Order The Mattering Effect: https://matteringeffect.com/
• Book John to Speak: https://johnrmiles.com/speaking/
• Keynotes, books, podcast, and resources: https://linktr.ee/John_R_Miles
• Children’s Book — You Matter, Luma: https://youmatterluma.com/
• Substack: https://www.theignitedlife.net/

Support the Movement: https://startmattering.com/. Every human deserves to feel seen, valued, and like they matter. Wear it. Live it. Show it.

Disclaimer

The Passion Struck podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of Passion Struck or its affiliates. This podcast is not a substitute for professional medical or psychological advice.