How can a cooperative control itself and not be beholden to anyone else? Can it?

What is expected of worker-owners, and what is given to them? What does it mean to "contribute equitably to, and democratically control, the capital" of a cooperative and what is done with surpluses?

Cooperatives must be democratic, but what does that mean? What form of democracy is best, and how do workers transition from mere workers and into democratic owners?

What does it mean to be a voluntary organization, open to all persons able to use their services and willing to accept the responsibilities of membership, without gender, social, racial, political, or religious discrimination?

Who were they, from where did their principles come, and why does it matter?

Are we really built for democracy at work?

What are the different approaches taken around the country and lessons for anyone pursuing cooperative legislation and policy endeavors?

Right to own gives workers the right to purchase business when they are being sold or closed in order to convert the businesses into worker cooperatives. 

A country of around 10 million people, Cuba has more than 5,000 cooperatives. As part of the reform process over the last decade, cooperatives have already achieved a prominent role in the Cuban economy...

In this episode, Kevin speaks with Rodney North, a member of the DC Cooperative Stakeholder Group, a co-op consultant, and a former co-op member for many years...