John Costello: Letting Go to Build a Company That Lasts
From Growing with Purpose by Jean Moncrieff
January 14, 2026 · 54 min · Episode 114
About this episode
Jean Moncrieff speaks with John Costello about building a values-driven company and the importance of purpose-driven leadership.
Leading with Purpose. Building a Values-Driven Business. In this episode of Growing With Purpose, Jean Moncrieff speaks with John Costello, owner of Cherry’s Industrial Equipment Corp, about his leadership journey and the evolution of building a values-driven company. John reflects on aligning personal and company values, navigating the emotional challenges of ownership, and learning how to let go in order to empower others. He shares why transparency, gratitude, and employee well-being are foundational to strong business culture, and why running a purpose-driven company is harder, but ultimately more fulfilling. This conversation explores the balance between hard and soft skills, the realities of leadership growth, and the lasting impact businesses can have on their people and communities. Key themes include: Purpose-driven leadership Company values and culture Transparency and trust Employee engagement Community impact Personal growth as a leader A thoughtful and honest conversation for leaders who believe business can be a force for good.
People in this episode
Host: Jean Moncrieff
Guest: John Costello
Topics covered
- Purpose-driven leadership
- Company values and culture
- Transparency and trust
- Employee engagement
- Community impact
Keywords
- leadership journey
- emotional challenges of ownership
- empower others
- gratitude
- employee well-being
- business culture
- hard and soft skills
- leadership growth
- lasting impact
Mentioned in this episode
Products: Cherry’s Industrial Equipment Corp
Books & works: Growing With Purpose
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