How does someone rise from stacking pallets in a Pepsi warehouse to leading a billion-dollar brand?

 

In this episode, I sit down with Scott Miller, former Essentia Water CEO and author of Summit Mindset, to unpack the philosophy that turns relentless ambition into meaningful success.  

 

Scott brings his book’s principles to life as he shares the four pillars that ground him Faith, Family, Business, and Others, proving that sustainable achievement begins when people come before profit.

 

He walks us through his Failure → Reflection → Persistence cycle, the daily rituals that fuel high performance, and the game-changing question he asks his team every week: "What did we suck at this time?" because real growth starts with honest reflection.  

 

The conversation turns deeply personal as Scott revisits a heart-to-heart with his father on his deathbed, a moment that still shapes his leadership today. At the core of it all? The idea of a North Star, a guiding light that cuts through the noise when data and pressure cloud judgment. Scott challenges us to define ours, lean on our own pillars, and keep climbing, especially when the summit feels out of reach.  

 

We wrap up with practical ways to build cultures where vulnerability fuels strength, ambition goes hand in hand with kindness, and true leadership starts within.  

 

If you’re ready to rise without leaving your values behind press play and let Summit Mindset show you the way.  

 

Meet Our Guest: Scott Miller

Scott Miller is a seasoned executive and author renowned for his transformative leadership in the global beverage industry. Now the Co-founder & CEO of YESLY Water, Scott began his career on the warehouse floor at Pepsi, gaining firsthand experience that propelled him through the ranks to executive leadership roles.

 

Miller's people-first approach to business has been a hallmark of his career, emphasizing innovation, corporate social responsibility, and community involvement. Notably, he led the growth and acquisition of Essentia, a national bottled water brand, culminating in its sale to global food and beverage leader Nestlé.

 

In his debut book, The Summit Mindset: Winning the Battle of You Versus You, co-authored with James C. Moore, Miller shares insights drawn from his personal and professional journey.

 

The book serves as a guide for individuals seeking to overcome internal obstacles and achieve personal and professional growth. Miller introduces concepts like identifying one's "North Star" and emphasizes the importance of self-reflection, consistency, and embracing change to reach one's full potential.

 

Miller's philosophy centers on the belief that by confronting our internal challenges and maintaining a commitment to continuous improvement, we can attain both personal fulfillment and professional success.

 

What You’ll Learn in this Episode:

• The story behind The Summit Mindset and the four pillars that guide Scott’s life
• Why adversity is the greatest teacher—and how to build consistency through it
• The power of asking, “What did we suck at?” in high-performance cultures
• How vulnerability and humility foster stronger, more accountable teams
• Why protecting your “sense of self” is the most important leadership asset
• The difference between success that lasts and success that fades
• How habits create confidence, and confidence creates transformation
• What it means to serve others while fiercely competing at the highest level
• How Scott’s health challenges and personal losses shaped his leadership style

Resources & Links Scott Miller

• Book: The Summit Mindset on Amazon
• Instagram: @ScottMillerYouVsYou
• LinkedIn: Scott Miller

 

Ed Molitor

• LinkedIn: Ed Molitor
• Website: www.themolitorgroup.com
• YouTube Channel: The Athletics of Business
• Join us at the 2025 Coaching Effect Summit in Kansas City, June 11–12.  Email the word “summit” to  [email protected] Click here to learn more!