Joshua Sherman

: BOB STILLER

Bob Stiller is a visionary entrepreneur , best known for founding Green Mountain Coffee Roasters and growing it into an international success . Stiller began his business career in 1971 by founding E-Z Wider cigarette rolling papers . He sold that business in 1981 , and he used part of his earnings to purchase a small coffee shop near his Vermont ski condo . From there , Stiller shifted his focus to manufacturing and roasting coffee on a large scale , ultimately pioneering the success of Green Mountain Coffee Roasters . Under his leadership , the company went public , partnered with Keurig , and became a trailblazer in both business growth and corporate social responsibility . Stiller felt strongly that having a social and environmental focus is one of the key factors that drives financial performance , becoming a leading voice in both business and corporate cultural transformation . In his new book , Better and Better : Creating a Culture of Purpose , Excellence , and Transformative Human Engagement , Stiller outlines the innovative approaches that helped Green Mountain Coffee thrive , ranging from fostering an engaged workforce to prioritizing environmental and social impact . He delves into key lessons on using optimism , self-awareness , and kindness to build a company in which employees feel valued and empowered to make a difference . Stiller sat down with VERMONT Magazine to discuss his journey , the philosophy behind Better and Better , and the vital connection between business development , self-awareness , and personal growth .

44 VERMONT MAGAZINE

STORY BY DR . JOSHUA SHERMAN