Summary

In this week’s episode of Startup Junkies, hosts Daniel Koonce, Caleb Talley, and Jeff Amerine are joined by Steve Toth, CEO of Crestline Leaders, a company helping high-capacity leaders move their enterprises forward. Steve’s entrepreneurial journey is as hands-on as it gets. He chronicled his early days rebuilding Volkswagen motors before discussing his role in co-founding Tango Press, a corrugated packaging startup that he grew and successfully exited.

One standout insight was Steve’s emphasis on integrating people and culture strategies from the beginning. He argues that no business can thrive or be successfully exited unless it’s built on trust, documented systems, and well-defined accountability. Steve explains how risk management, strategy, and a focus on enterprise value need to be front and center, no matter your stage of growth. 

Additionally, he shared advice for entrepreneurs: think about succession and exit from day one. If your business cannot thrive without you, then there’s work to be done. For anyone building a business with an eye toward value creation and longevity, Steve’s blend of practical, people-first advice and battlefield-tested experience makes this episode a must-listen!

Show Notes

(00:00 ) Introduction

(04:27 ) Building Transferable Business Value

(12:06 ) A Prioritized Risk Management Approach

(18:00 ) The Importance of Enterprise Value in Exiting

(25:33 ) Utilizing a Hands-On Leadership Transition

(30:00 ) Rethinking Work-Life Balance

(38:01 ) Focusing on a Growth Mindset

(40:36 ) Closing Thoughts

Links

Daniel Koonce

Caleb Talley

Jeff Amerine

Startup Junkie

Startup Junkie YouTube

Steve Toth

Crestline Leaders