On recent episodes of the Entrepreneur Intel podcast, three inspiring leaders—Mike Pilkington, Ben Quintana, Kristen Tassielli—shared valuable lessons drawn from their entrepreneurial experiences. Their insights shine a light on how businesses can preserve their culture, embrace innovation, and navigate change in a rapidly shifting landscape.

Let’s explore the key takeaways from their journeys...

Preserving Culture Through Growth: Lessons from Mike Pilkington

When Mike Pilkington joined Death Wish Coffee Company as COO, it was a scrappy startup with a strong sense of culture. Under his guidance, it became one of the top 20 coffee brands in grocery stores and on Amazon. Now, as co-founder of Key Sparkling Water, Mike applies the same principles, proving that growth and authenticity can go hand in hand.

Mike believes culture is the secret ingredient to long-term success. Early on, he prioritized understanding his team’s motivations and the values that defined the company. This foundation shaped his hiring practices, where he sought not just experience but alignment with the company’s scrappy, collaborative spirit. By staying true to the team’s identity, he scaled the business without losing what made it special.

Key Takeaways:

• Culture Fuels Growth: Prioritize preserving what makes your company unique as you expand. Listen Here

• Hire for Mission Fit: Skills can be developed, but passion and alignment with your company’s vision are irreplaceable. Listen Here

Mike’s approach underscores the importance of scaling responsibly, ensuring that growth strengthens, rather than erodes, a company’s identity.

Unlocking AI's Potential: Insights from Ben Quintana

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has transformed the business landscape, and Ben Quintana, principal at KIS Solutions, sees it as an opportunity for businesses to grow smarter, not harder. Drawing on his experience with enterprise clients, Ben views AI as a tool to enhance human efforts, drive innovation, and free up resources for strategic work.

Ben reminds us that AI isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. It works best when used intentionally to tackle specific challenges. Whether summarizing meeting notes, supporting sales training, or improving coding workflows, AI empowers teams to focus on higher-value tasks.

Key Takeaways:

• AI is a Partnership: Use AI to enhance your team’s capabilities—not replace them. Listen Here

• Test and Learn: Experiment with AI tools to discover how they fit your business needs. Trial and error can reveal game-changing applications. Listen Here

By integrating AI into broader business strategies, Ben shows how companies can unlock innovation and prepare for the digital future.

Balancing Innovation and Tradition: Insights from Kristen Tassielli

In the competitive fitness industry, Kristen Tassielli, managing partner at All Pro Fitness Things,  has found success by blending innovation with tradition. As a second-generation leader in her family’s business, Kristen has navigated industry shifts and customer demands while staying true to the values that built the company’s reputation.

Her strategy emphasizes listening to market needs, building strong partnerships, and diversifying revenue streams. By balancing legacy and evolution, Kristen has secured exclusive partnerships and maintained trust with her clients, proving that adaptability doesn’t have to compromise tradition.

Key Takeaways:

• Focus on Value: Growth isn’t about size—it’s about profitability and delivering meaningful results. Listen Here

• Relationships Drive Success: Trust and communication create a foundation for long-term partnerships and resilience. Listen Here

Kristen’s story highlights how honoring your roots while staying agile can sustain success in an ever-changing market.

What Will You Take Away?

Preparing for 2025 is about more than just growth—it’s about building a business that’s resilient, innovative, and aligned with your values. Whether you’re focusing on preserving culture, adopting new technologies, or fostering meaningful relationships, these lesson can provide the guidance you need to succeed.

If refining your marketing strategy is on your to-do list, we’re here to support you. At Stealth Consulting, we craft clear, actionable strategies that deliver real results.

Let’s set you up for success in 2025—schedule a discovery call today: https://calendly.com/stealthconsulting/discovery-socials