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Updated: 2 hours ago / 2025 40 Under 40 honorees

40 Under 40: Kate Bielinski lives by the saying, ‘knowledge grows when it is shared’

Photo / Soubanh Phanthay Kate Bielinski, 38: Owner, Kate Bielinski Marketing & Consulting, Co-founder, Growth Factor
Kate Bielinski, 38 Owner, Kate Bielinski Marketing & Consulting, Co-founder, Growth Factor Read all about the 40 Under 40 honorees
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Greatest achievement: It’s difficult to point to just one because my life has been shaped by many milestones. Today, I’m proud of building two businesses that deliver results for clients while also giving them more freedom in their lives. I believe success should mean fulfillment beyond work, with space for family, growth and passions. As a first-generation immigrant and teen mom, I learned early that the traditional path isn’t the only path, and that perspective continues to shape how I lead and help others do the same.

Passion project: One of my greatest passions is learning and teaching. There’s a saying I love: “Knowledge grows when it is shared.” I live that by teaching marketing at Husson University and Eastern Maine Community College, mentoring emerging entrepreneurs and supporting nonprofits and community projects.

Lightbulb moment: I realized my value isn’t just running ads or executing campaigns but being a strategic partner who helps businesses grow intentionally. Shifting from service provider to growth partner transformed my work, the clients I attract, and the impact I make.

Influential book: “The 4-Hour Workweek,” by Tim Ferriss. I first read it after college, and it opened my eyes to lifestyle design. I’ve revisited it many times, and in each season, different ideas guided me closer to creating a life that allows me to travel, work from anywhere and prioritize family, friends and growth.

Favorite shows: I’m a big fan of podcasts and love content that gives me new perspectives. “Hidden Brain,” “Diary of a CEO,” “School of Greatness” and TED Talks are favorites. I also listen to friends’ podcasts, which feels like catching up when they live far away.

Personal hero: I’ve been fortunate to have many role models who influenced me in family, career, health, values and finances. Collectively, they’ve shaped the person I strive to become.

Favorite quote: When my kids were younger and would say, “I’ll try,” my husband and I would answer, “What does Yoda say?” and they’d groan, “Do or do not, there is no try.” I’ve never seen “Star Wars,” but I love this quote because it captures my outlook on life and how powerful our mindset is in shaping outcomes.

Best way to recharge: I follow Jesse Itzler’s “Life Calendar” approach, planning one big goal each year and six mini-adventures. It’s taken me to over 40 countries, watching the sunrise in the Sahara, cold plunging the fjords of Norway, hiking volcanoes across South America, running a half marathon and even logging hours toward my pilot’s license.

Dinner party guests: My first choice would be my grandmother. We immigrated from Poland when I was a child and I didn’t get to know her deeply before she passed, but her resilience and intellect inspire me. I’d also invite my two sisters so we could share that connection together.

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