How can experimentation and relentless curiosity unlock faster growth in private-equity-backed businesses?

In this episode of The Hard Corps Marketing Show, I sat down with Kit Lisle, Founder of Acclaro Growth Partners and The Operators.pe. A former military intelligence officer turned veteran strategy consultant, Kit brings a unique lens to leadership and business transformation. He now helps companies shift from founder-led decision making to value-driven, private-equity-ready growth.

Kit breaks down why leaders should start with experimentation instead of narrowing their focus too soon, how honest customer conversations reveal real needs, and why continuous improvement and humble collaboration are non-negotiable for long-term success. Drawing from his military background, Kit compares the intensity of private equity to a SEAL team mission, where adaptability, rapid learning, and mission clarity are essential.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why a period of experimentation outperforms premature focus
• How to ask open-ended questions that deliver true customer insight
• The cultural shift founder-led businesses must make when PE steps in
• Leveraging strengths and running after-action reviews for constant improvement
• Encouraging a culture of curiosity that sparks innovation

If you’re ready to foster intellectual curiosity, unlock hidden opportunities, and drive value-first growth, this episode is full of actionable insights you won’t want to miss!

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Connect with Kit:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kit-lisle/  
• The Operator’s website: https://theoperators.pe/  
• Acclaro Growth Partners' website: https://acclaropartners.com/ 

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• YouTube: https://youtu.be/jr18uWStLfQ 

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