What does it really take to thrive in business early in your career? In this episode, we break down powerful frameworks for identifying your strengths, managing your energy, and learning the skills that compound over time. Whether you're aiming to lead, build, or simply get unstuck, this one’s packed with clarity and momentum.

In this episode, Kurt Watkins shares insights from his journey as a successful golfer, entrepreneur, and leader. We dive into how finding your passion can unlock new opportunities, why building strong relationships is a game-changer, and how asking open-ended questions can set you apart. Kurt also reminds us that it’s okay — even necessary — to not have everything figured out right away. If you’re looking for practical advice and real-world wisdom to guide your next steps, this conversation is for you.

When Brandon Wilson co-founded SteadyDynamic, he wasn’t chasing some never-before-seen startup idea—he was building on something he already knew really well: software. After years of learning how to sell, lead, and spot real opportunities in the industry, Brandon and his co-founders didn’t invent a brand-new concept—they just knew they could do it better.

In this episode, we dive into how businesses are often born from expertise and necessity, not just innovation. Brandon shares how his experience gave him the confidence to launch, and how the power of a strong co-founding team helped SteadyDynamic grow and double revenue for three straight years.

We also break down what it actually means to be a CEO—turns out, it’s less about making all the decisions and more about staying curious, building relationships, and constantly asking the right questions.

Whether you’re thinking about starting something or just want to level up in your current role, this episode is packed with takeaways you won’t want to miss.

Let’s get into it.

In this episode, I sit down with Brandon Clarke, Co-Founder of StartupAZ and Managing Director at the NAU Venture Studio. Brandon shares a powerful framework for figuring out what you’re meant to do—breaking it down into four key “buckets” to evaluate your career direction. Whether you're a student, a recent grad, or someone navigating your next move, this conversation is packed with practical insights.

We talk about the value of trial and error, the role internships and side projects play in learning, and how modern tools like AI can help you better understand your strengths and passions. Brandon also dives into the importance of aligning what you're good at with what you love—because that's where fulfillment and momentum begin.

And when you find that thing? Show up. Do the work. Keep showing up. Because consistency is often the difference between dreaming and doing.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to take action, find clarity, and move forward with purpose.

Links:

COMING SOON - LaunchStack: https://neon-speculoos-23cade.netlify.app/

Aquired Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/mw/podcast/acquired/id1050462261

Gimlet Startup Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/mw/podcast/startup-podcast/id913805339

Kitchen Confidential by Anthony Bourdain: https://www.amazon.com/Kitchen-Confidential-Updated-Adventures-Underbelly/dp/0060899220/

Pattern Breakers: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CNBFB1PR/

In this episode, Tom shares the journey behind building Alaska’s largest fitness club chain, his transition from banking leadership, and the lessons that shaped his approach to success. He dives into the power of emotional intelligence, the importance of being likable, how to find the right mentors, and why partnerships matter more than trying to do it all yourself. Whether you're building your career or looking to lead more effectively, Tom offers practical, time-tested advice to help you grow.

In this episode, I sit down with Eric Olsen, Founder and CEO of Fasturtle and Refered, to break down the key principles that fueled his success. From going door-to-door to land his first clients to scaling a thriving agency, Eric shares how a simple shift in mindset—How can I help you?—transformed his networking and sales approach.

We also dive into building a strong company culture, the hiring lessons he learned the hard way, and why initiative is the #1 trait he looks for in new hires. Plus, Eric shares his biggest insight into why he's been so successful (hint: it doesn't have to do with him).

Want to level up your career and business? This episode is packed with actionable advice to help you get there.

In this special episode, I’m breaking down the top 10 biggest takeaways from the first 10 episodes of Business Isn’t Hard. After talking with incredible business leaders, entrepreneurs, and experts, I’ve compiled the most valuable lessons—actionable insights that can help students and young professionals level up their careers, mindset, and business skills. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for real-world strategies to succeed, this episode is packed with gold nuggets from the best in the game.

Success doesn’t come to those who wait—it comes to those who take action.

In this episode, Todd Altomare breaks down the key habits that drive real results: being proactive, building valuable skills, and surrounding yourself with the right people. From leveraging LinkedIn for networking to mastering time management, this conversation is packed with insights you can apply today. Plus, we define what makes an effective leader and how you can develop those qualities yourself. If you're serious about growth, this episode is a must-listen.