Business Isn't Hard

Finding Your Path with Eric Knott

In this episode of Business Isn’t Hard, I sit down with Professor Eric Knott to break down what early career growth really looks like and why you don’t need to have everything figured out right out of college. Drawing on over 25 years of experience in HR leadership, consulting, and teaching at Arizona State University’s W. P. Carey School of Business, Eric shares practical advice on approaching your first roles, learning what you enjoy, and avoiding analysis paralysis. The conversation explores the power of networking, why students and young professionals often underestimate their advantage, and how relationships can accelerate careers faster than resumes. Eric also explains why business awareness matters and why understanding finance, marketing, and the broader business environment is critical for long-term success. Finally, Eric discusses one of the biggest career derailers he sees in leadership: ego. He breaks down what healthy confidence looks like, how unchecked ego damages careers and culture, and how to lead with humility, empathy, and accountability.

Building an Airline with Mark Beauvais

In this episode of Business Isn’t Hard, Mark Beauvais shares practical insights from decades of experience in leadership, strategy, and real estate. The conversation focuses on data-driven decision making, building strong business models, and staying adaptable in competitive environments. You will also hear lessons on the importance of relationships, disciplined thinking, and perseverance over the course of a long career. This episode offers clear, actionable takeaways for anyone looking to think more strategically and build lasting success in business.

Discipline and Understanding Others with Tony Imperato

In this episode, Tony Imperato shares the mindset and habits that have shaped his career—from the internal drive that pushes great leaders forward to the disciplined routines that create long-term momentum. He breaks down how to recognize real opportunities, build the kind of consistency that compounds, and develop the emotional intelligence needed to lead people effectively. It’s a practical, clear, and motivating look at what actually moves careers and businesses ahead.

Launching Xbox and Leading Teams with Parisa Zander

In this episode, I sit down with Parisa Zander, a global leader in partner experiences whose career spans Microsoft, Samsung, and Meta. Parisa shares the pivotal lessons that shaped her leadership, from operating with a startup mindset inside massive organizations to navigating the difficult transition from peer to manager. She breaks down how real culture is built through consistent actions, not corporate slogans, and why emotional intelligence is the backbone of every high-performing team. Listeners will walk away with insights on setting boundaries, reading team dynamics, and leading with empathy in environments that are constantly evolving. Whether you’re early in your career or stepping into leadership for the first time, this conversation offers a grounded, honest look at what it takes to create meaningful impact inside fast-moving companies. Tune in to learn the principles that help good leaders become great ones.

What is Growth? with Luke Crihfield

In this episode, Luke Crihfield shares lessons from his journey through consulting and startups, from taking ownership early in your career to leading with curiosity and deep listening. He explains how to find environments where your impact matters, bring solutions instead of problems, and build the skills that fuel long-term growth.