Podcast
Podcast
In this episode of A Founder’s Life, Leo Gestetner sits down with Bruce Lipian, co-founder of StoneCreek Capital, to uncover the unexpected key to success in private equity and business—authenticity. Bruce shares how embracing who he is, building lifelong relationships, and overcoming deep personal tragedy shaped his career and life philosophy.
Bruce N. Lipian is a founding principal and Managing Director of StoneCreek Capital. Founded in 1992, StoneCreek is an independent private equity sponsor focused on investing directly in growth-oriented management buyouts and targets transactions ranging from $10 million to $100 million. StoneCreek’s most recent acquisitions include Kova International (www.kovaintl.com), Pinnacle Exhibits (www.pinnacle-exhibits.com), Mob Scene (www.mobscene.com), Rio Ranch Market (www.rioranchmarket.com), Montana Silversmiths (www.montanasilversmiths.com) and ACCESS DMC (www.accessdmc.com). Prior to StoneCreek, Bruce was a Vice President at Kelso & Co., one of the nation’s leading buyout investment firms. Bruce received his BA (Economics) from the University of Washington and his MBA (Finance) from the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania. Bruce is an active member of ACG, a founding member of both the Orange County Private Equity Connection and the Orange County Transaction Network, and has served as an adjunct professor at the Mihaylo College of Business and Economics (California State University Fullerton) and as Vice Chairman of the Board of Kids Connected.
In this episode of A Founder’s Life, Leo Gestetner sits down with Bruce Lipian, co-founder of StoneCreek Capital, to uncover the unexpected key to success in private equity and business—authenticity. Bruce shares how embracing who he is, building lifelong relationships, and overcoming deep personal tragedy shaped his career and life philosophy.
The Secret to Private Equity Success – How Bruce landed his first major job by being completely unfiltered and authentic, proving that personality can matter more than credentials.
From Banking to Building a Legacy – Why Bruce left a stable banking job to co-found StoneCreek Capital and help shape the “Independent Sponsor” model in private equity.
Turning Tragedy into Strength – Bruce shares how losing his entire family at 13 forced him to redefine resilience, gratitude, and success from an early age.
The Business of Relationships – Why long-term friendships, deep trust, and personal integrity are more valuable than any financial strategy.
Leadership Lessons from 30+ Years in Private Equity – The mindset shifts and principles that have kept Bruce successful through multiple market cycles.
Health & Longevity for Business Leaders – After a wake-up call, Bruce dropped 40+ pounds and embraced a lifestyle centered on fitness, nutrition, and daily movement to extend both his career and quality of life.
A 29-Year Tradition of Balance – The story behind Bruce’s annual golf retreat, a reminder that success isn’t just about work—it’s about building a life you love.
Where to Connect – Find Bruce at www.stonecreekcapital.com, where he continues to mentor, invest, and lead with purpose.
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