
Welcome to "Morgan Entrepreneur Spotlight," our bi-monthly showcase where we shine a light on Northeast Ohio's entrepreneurial superstars. Each feature delves into the journeys of individuals who have participated in our programs and have harnessed their learnings to fuel impressive growth and innovation.
Kirk Lintern was a member of the fifth cohort of Scalerator NEO. He also participated in the Big Rock Valley Leadership Retreat and CEO Roundtables, provided at no cost through a partnership between Burton D. Morgan Foundation and the Edward Lowe Foundation (ELF).
Tell us a little about your business.
“Lintern Corporation was established in 1892 by William Lintern in Berea, Ohio. It remains a privately held firm, with the fifth generation of Linterns as President. Lintern pioneered the severe-duty air conditioning industry over 85 years ago and continues to lead the industry worldwide. Still headquartered outside of Cleveland, Ohio, we have sales offices in the United States and in several countries around the world. All Lintern products are engineered to ensure efficient operation and long-term reliability in applications subjected to intense heat, heavy dirt loading, vibration and corrosive environments. More can be found at Lintern.com.”
Can you share your thoughts and key takeaways about the foundation-sponsored entrepreneurship programming you have participated in?
“I thought they were great, and I was happy to help with the interview process for vetting new Scalerator applicants. At the Edward Lowe Foundation retreat, it was great to see how many companies are in the same place as you are and how everyone is always willing to help each other where they can. The key takeaways are that you need a plan, and everyone needs to buy in to make it work.”
Please tell us about any benefits, growth, or key wins you've experienced since participating in these programs.
“Our sales have increased, and our market share has increased. I think the employees at Lintern are working together better. We have more focus. Everyone at Lintern has a better understanding of who I am as well as what the goals are.”
What are your goals for the next twelve months?
“My goals for Lintern are to ship 335 units in a year, find a new line of business, and do over $12 million in sales.”
What is your favorite quote?
“’Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the face.’ – Mike Tyson.”
What is the last book you read?
“I’m not much of a book reader but I love podcasts.”
Could you name a few of your favorite podcasts?
“A few? You have asked the wrong guy! It’s all that I listen to, so there is no way that I could list only a few. I listen to about 20 different podcasts regularly. The only group I don’t listen to is true crime; everything else I am up for. I will say that I try and listen to every podcast that someone I know is on, so that makes for an eclectic list. Here you go, just to name a ‘few’:
99% invisible
The Press Box
Hang up and Listen
The Indicator from Planet Money
Real Dictators
The Rewatchables
The Daily Dad
Revisionist History
Hit Parade
American Elections: Wicked Game
Plain English with Derek Thompson
Today in Ohio
Disgraceland
What advice do you have for budding entrepreneurs?
“Don't let the business die. Keep your business going as long as you can, you don't know when a big order will happen. All it takes is a little wind shift, and the wind in your face becomes the wind at your back. At the same time, you have to be smart and not become homeless because your business didn’t work out.”
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
“I love the programs that you offer and the increased visibility around Morgan Foundation.”
To learn more about Morgan Foundation sponsored programs and opportunities for second stage entrepreneurs, contact Michal Marcus.
If you have participated in Morgan Foundation sponsored programs and are interested in being featured in the Spotlight, contact Gina Dotson.