EPISODE 135: The Quarterly Meeting: A Deep Dive into the EOS Framework for Business Success with Forrest Derr

In this episode of The Overlap Podcast, hosts Sid Sexton and Keith Glines are joined by Forrest Derr, an EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) Implementer. They delve into the significance of quarterly meetings in the EOS framework and how they can benefit businesses of all sizes. Forrest explains the structure and purpose of quarterly meetings, emphasizing the importance of getting offsite, reviewing the company’s vision, addressing issues, and setting SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals for the next quarter. The conversation also touches on the role of EOS implementers in guiding businesses through the EOS process and the value of having a structured approach to achieving long-term goals. Forrest also shares how he implements EOS in his personal life, demonstrating the versatility of the framework.

Show Notes:

• The Overlap Podcast: A podcast hosted by Sid Sexton and Keith Glines that explores the overlaps between work, fitness, family, faith, parenting, and leadership.
• EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System): A framework for running businesses effectively, emphasizing vision, traction, and healthy organizations.
• Quarterly Meetings: Regular meetings held every 90 days to review progress, address issues, and set goals for the next quarter.
• VTO (Vision Traction Organizer): A two-page business plan that outlines the company’s vision, goals, and strategies.
• Rocks: 90-day goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound.
• Issues: Challenges or obstacles that need to be identified, discussed, and solved.
• SMART Goals: Goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound.
• EOS Implementer: A professional who guides businesses through the EOS implementation process.
• Energy: An EOS networking and resource group.
• 90 Minute Meetings: Weekly meetings in the EOS framework to address short-term issues.
• Accountability Chart: A chart that outlines the roles and responsibilities within a company.
• People Analyzer: A tool used in EOS to assess whether individuals are in the right seats within a company.
• IDS (Identify, Discuss, Solve): A process for addressing issues in EOS meetings.
• Toolbox Items: Educational topics covered in quarterly meetings to enhance the team’s skills and knowledge.
• Cash Flow Driver: An EOS tool for identifying ways to improve cash flow.
• SWOT Analysis: A tool for assessing a company’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.
• Traction: Gino Wickman
• Get a Grip: Gino Wickman and Mike Paton
• What the Heck is EOS?: Gino Wickman and Don Tinney
• Rocket Fuel: Gino Wickman and Mark C. Winters

Additional Notes:

• Forrest Derr emphasizes the importance of having quarterly meetings offsite to minimize distractions and focus on working on the business, not in the business.
• He highlights the value of celebrating wins and acknowledging both personal and professional achievements during the check-in process.
• The hosts and Forrest discuss the significance of identifying the root cause of issues rather than just addressing surface-level symptoms.
• They also touch upon the importance of having a long-term vision and regularly reviewing and adjusting the VTO to ensure it aligns with the company’s evolving goals.
• The episode concludes with Forrest sharing how EOS principles can be applied to personal life, such as family and relationships.