Ice Cream Social

The Struggle for the Soul of Ben & Jerry's

By: Brad Edmondson, Jeff Furman - epilogue, Annie Leonard - foreword

Narrated by: Brad Edmondson

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

Great insight into the history of Ben and Jerry's

Also a very good introduction to the concept of "Linked Prosperity."

Thumbs up! Now it's time to go grab some ice cream haha :)

Behind The Scenes

Interestingly insightful behind the scenes for one of the world's most beloved brands. The growing pains and struggles of the founder's, management team from the early years, the sale, and post sale struggle to keep the brand true to its original 3 part mission. The book is a worthy read for any cause related brand.

The only business book I’ve ever been able to read

This was a required reading for my class. I went in with low hopes that it would be any better than other business books I’ve had to read. I was wrong!! I’ve sent this book to family and friends begging them to read about this version of david versus Goliath. I’ve pestered these same people into discussions surrounding capitalism, corporate social responsibility and linked prosperity. Great book that gets your activist side ready to fight big corps and support the under dogs!!