Another Way: Building Companies That Last…and Last…and Last

by Dave Whorton, Mitch Crawford (narrator), Bo Burlingham

Dave Whorton was John Doerr's associate partner at high-flying Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers during Silicon Valley's big shift. After Netscape's IPO, he witnessed the VC industry pivot from a proven forty-year playbook of managing risk to something much more Get big fast. Don't worry about profitability. Cash out and find another venture.

And for a while, Whorton took part in this whirlwind as he pursued his dream of becoming the next Hewlett or Packard. It wasn't long, though, before it all got to be too much. Whorton recognized that if "get big fast" was the formula for building a great technology company in the twenty-first century, he was happy to let someone else do it. It just wasn't for him.

Whorton went on a journey to find a better way to build a way focused on long-term stability and steady growth, funded through profitability; a way in which leaders were committed to a Purpose greater than personal wealth generation, to being People First, and making their companies endure. He calls these companies "Evergreen."

Whorton's story, combined with his Evergreen 7Ps framework, offers practical steps to create and lead enduring businesses.

Genres: Business

Audible Audio

Published May 6, 2025

Reviews

[Ron Scheese · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a proud member of the Tugboat Institute and a strong advocate for the Evergreen movement, I am thrilled by the publication of "Another Way: Building Companies That Last" by Dave Whorton and Bo Burlingham.

Dave captures the heart and soul of Evergreen principles—purpose, people-first, and perseverance—by weaving together insights, stories, and practical wisdom from leaders who have embraced this transformative way of building businesses. For CEOs like myself, who believe in sustainable growth, enduring values, and long-term thinking, Another Way feels like both a roadmap and a source of affirmation.

Dave’s ability to articulate the “why” behind Evergreen companies is inspiring, but his exploration of the “how” is what truly sets this book apart. Whether you're navigating generational succession, fostering a people-first culture, or balancing profitability with purpose, this book provides the guidance and encouragement needed to stay the course.

I am encouraged that some universities and business schools are engaging with the Tugboat Institute to position this model in the classroom and it wouldn't surprise me to see  "Another Way" work it's way into several business curriculums. For leaders committed to building companies that endure and thrive—not just for today, but for decades to come— "Another Way" is a powerful reminder that pursuing values-driven leadership and financial sustainability isn’t just possible; it’s necessary.

"Another Way" will inspire and equip you to lead with intention and resilience. Check it out and let’s continue to grow the Evergreen movement together!

[Nathan Hardt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Author’s story of life as a VC investor who then pivoted to a very different business worldview was interesting to me. Enjoyable with lessons worth reflection.

[Mae B · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yes to this whole book. Would give it 10 stars if I could.

[Darya · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Refreshing Alternative to Silicon Valley's Winner-Take-All Playbook
★★★★★
In an era when Silicon Valley's "move fast and break things" ethos has left a trail of burnt-out founders, abandoned employees, and imploded unicorns, this book arrives as a much-needed antidote. This isn't just another business book—it's a manifesto for sustainable capitalism written by someone who saw the system from the inside and chose to build something better.
The author's credentials are impeccable. As John Doerr's associate partner at the legendary Kleiner Perkins, he had a front-row seat to Silicon Valley's transformation from methodical risk management to the frenzied "get-big-fast" model that has dominated tech entrepreneurship for the past two decades. But rather than simply critiquing the system that made him successful, he offers something far more valuable: a proven alternative framework grounded in real-world experience.
What makes this book exceptional is its combination of personal memoir and practical guidance. The journey from the high-flying world of venture capital to a quest for a more sustainable approach to company building is both honest and inspiring. The author doesn't present himself as having all the answers from the start; instead, we see his evolution as he recognizes the human and financial costs of the growth-at-all-costs mentality.
The heart of the book lies in the "Evergreen 7Ps framework"—a roadmap for building companies focused on long-term stability, profitability-funded growth, and purpose beyond wealth generation. Unlike many business frameworks that feel abstract or theoretical, this one is grounded in extensive work with real companies that have embraced these principles. The practical examples throughout demonstrate that this isn't idealistic fantasy; it's a viable path that numerous businesses are successfully following.
What resonates most powerfully is the emphasis on putting people first and building companies designed to endure rather than exit. In an age of quick flips and founder burnout, this message feels revolutionary precisely because it's so sensible. The book makes a compelling case that you don't have to sacrifice your values, your employees, or your long-term vision to build a successful technology company.
This work will particularly appeal to founders exhausted by VC pressure to scale at unsustainable rates, business leaders seeking alternatives to quarterly capitalism, and anyone disillusioned with the current startup ecosystem. But its lessons extend far beyond tech, offering insights for any entrepreneur or executive interested in building something that lasts.
Written with the authority of experience and the passion of a convert, what could have been a dry business treatise becomes an engaging and thought-provoking read. This is capitalism at its most thoughtful and humane—a vision of business success measured not just in exit multiples but in thriving employees, satisfied customers, and companies built to last.
If you're tired of the Silicon Valley playbook and looking for a better way forward, this book is your roadmap. Highly recommended.

[Cameron · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Way, by Dave Whorton, highlights an often-overlooked segment of businesses in the U.S. called Evergreen Companies. They embody the “7 Ps” of being Evergreen and share common characteristics around being privately owned with no intention of taking on outside capital or selling. Their long-term oriented private ownership manifests in operating differently across every aspect of business – customer service, innovation, treatment of employees, etc.

Whorton details his personal journey from the beginnings of the get-big-fast era of venture capital following the IPO of Netscape. After becoming disillusioned with this mode of company building, he sought out a different type of company, eventually leading to the formation of the Tugboat Institute and focus on Evergreens. Whorton posits that Evergreens are a superior form of capitalism and enable these businesses to do things private-equity and venture-capital owned businesses cannot. For example, deep involvement with a community and philanthropy (Meijer donating more annually than it takes out in dividends) or tying up capital in land ownership (SAS Institute) are key examples highlighted in the book.

Another Way profiles several incredibly successful companies that operate in this manner and have stood the test of time, with 30 companies being over 100 years old. For example, some of the larger more well-known members of the group include:
- SAS Institute (Software),Meijers and Wegmans (grocery stores), Enterprise (car rentals), In N Out Burger (fast food), and the list goes on

One of the more interesting items I did not consider before reading the book is regarding the Pragmatic Innovation principle. Whorton talks about Christensen’s Innovator’s Dilemma and how pursuing the types of innovation that truly disrupts industries can be best pursued by Evergreens rather than a VC-backed company.

I thought the book did include some fluff and some material could be slotted into other chapters, namely chapters 7 and 9. I wish he would have gone deeper on the financial aspect of certain businesses and how they managed to grow despite limited capital. It is one thing for a software company to do so that is naturally capital-light, but diving deeper into the mechanics of a manufacturing business growing with no outside capital would have bene illuminating.

In addition, I wish he spent more time on the compensation of executives at Evergreen companies. This got brief mention alongside some language on Warren Buffett and how he likes to structure compensation plans. For multi-generational businesses or where non-family members must be brought in to the run a company, I imagine properly structuring a compensation package is of the utmost importance and I would have loved to read more on it.

With private equity and venture capital sitting on record amounts of dry powder and AUM, I don’t think it’s ever been harder for business owners to resist the urge to sell. However, this book makes an extremely compelling case for why that never selling the best choice for a certain type of owner.

Favorite quote: “There’s something about being a successful Evergreen CEO that other people will never understand. I’m talking about the way it feels. It’s almost impossible to describe. The guys in venture-backed or private equity-owned companies have no idea what I’m talking about. They’ll never experience it…it’s knowing that your team is operating at a high level and working well together to the point where you can sit back and smile because of how they well they are performing…it’s about seeing your children care about the company’s Purpose…it’s just an incredible feeling of satisfaction and joy.”

[Angie B · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the great pleasure of reading Another Way and joining Dave’s book launch at our local library in Ketchum, ID. Not only is the book a great read but it was inspiring hearing from Dave Whorton live as he shared stories from the book and other inspiring narratives.

I would recommend reading Another Way if you are an inspiring entrepreneur, a veteran business owner, a student wondering where your career journey should start or take you, or you’re just looking for a great narrative that will inspire you to make changes in your life to impact the world around you.

Thank you, Dave, for starting the Evergreen movement and giving a name to these wonderful businesses and leaders that are truly impacting the lives of the people they work with and the communities they operate. I’ve owned several businesses over the course of my career and have always led with the Evergreen 7Ps Principles without having a name for it. Thanks for defining these foundational values that so many of us in the business world have been living and breathing for decades and even 100s of years in many cases.

For Students – Considering the current state of our economic environment and the job market, I would highly recommend this book to any college student and soon to be graduate. I would encourage you to seek out Evergreen businesses to work for if you are looking to make a dent in the universe and be part of a company making an impact in the lives of their teammates, customers, and communities. May you find inspiration in Dave Whorton’s words, the Evergreen movement, and may you join what I believe to be the best part of capitalism.

[Jocelyn Reilly · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Another Way” by Dave Whorton was a fantastic and interesting read. The book is written as a story, which immediately pulled me in. It follows Dave’s journey working at a top VC firm and his involvement in discovering the “next Netscape” and being in the same room as early big tech leaders like Google, to founding successful companies (Drugstore.com!), and ultimately realizing that businesses don’t have to be built to sell. Instead, they can be built to last! What stood out the most to me is how clearly the book shows that companies CAN thrive long-term while staying true to their purpose and taking care of their people (alongside the other 7 P’s).

I recommend this book to anyone interested in business, but even those who may be unfamiliar with business but are considering their next career move and want to work for a company that has “Evergreen” principles that aligns with their individual values. A quick and fascinating read that can change your perspective in the world of companies getting acquired left and right.

[Chauncy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a unique business book in that it is accessible and compelling for business leaders and laypeople alike. If you ask yourself the question, what kind of society do I want to live in? And if you consider the power businesses have to shape that society, here is a fantastic, real, and inspiring look at what we need more of - Evergreen businesses. I have always vaguely felt that it was important to support business that support good causes and behave like they care about people, but here is a clear, readable, inspiring explanation of what exactly that could look like - and it has a name! I will look for Evergreen businesses specifically from here on out, and will advise the students I teach to consider them as preferred, future employers as well. Thank you for writing this book, Dave Whorton! I hope this idea takes our society by storm - we need it badly!

[john griffith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Way offers great insight on how to build a business that lasts.
Dave’s experience in venture capital gives him the perfect contrast to the evergreen principles outlined in this book.
Mixed in with great stories are practical examples that bring these principles to life. This is a great book for anyone looking to understand building businesses via a road less taken. Growing profitable private companies that last while empowering and rewarding employee is a concept whose time has come. Anyone looking to do this should read this book.

[Greg · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book will take the readers through the journey of Dave Whorton, the author from the time he started his career, his stint in Kleiner Perkins to his founding of Tugboat Institute. Throughout his story he teaches the reader the business lessons he learned all these years.

Entrepreneurs will surely benefit from his wonderful stories and advice.

[Chantal Hayashi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read this for work purposes. it's good and interesting since the company I work for is a Living Company who has a mission statement and values that align with Evergreen companies. It didn't necessarily feel groundbreaking reading this novel.. but a lot of AHA moments because of the alignment and common philosophies described.

[Ethan J · Rating 5 out of 5]

really enjoyed this book, eye-opening

[Jacks Loves Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Way is a refreshing take on what building a business can look like when it’s driven by purpose, not just profit. Dave Whorton shares his journey from the fast-paced VC world to discovering a better, more sustainable way to grow companies—what he calls “Evergreen” businesses.

I loved how easy this book was to read, how many interesting stories it told, and how much I learned about companies doing things differently or actually the "old" way. It’s full of practical insights without ever feeling preachy. Super inspiring and definitely worth a read if you care about long-term thinking in business and how capitalism can benefit communities.