Business Isn't Hard

Business Isn't Hard

di Oliver Howard

How to Find the Next Billion-Dollar Idea with Paul Fiore

From Idea to $1.3 Billion: Paul Fiore’s Fintech Playbook Paul Fiore didn’t wait for the perfect idea — he built it. In this episode, the founder of Digital Insight shares how he spotted a breakthrough technology (the web browser), combined it with a lagging industry (credit unions), and transformed online banking forever — eventually leading to a $1.3B acquisition by Intuit. We dive into his framework for generating great startup ideas, building mission-driven teams, and leading through explosive growth. Whether you’re an aspiring founder or just exploring big opportunities, Paul’s story is packed with practical insight, startup mindset, and hard-earned wisdom.

Leading a Billion Dollar Company with Karl Sanft

From Store Manager to CEO: Leadership Lessons with Karl Sanft, CEO of 24 Hour Fitness What does it take to go from a fresh college graduate to the CEO of one of America’s largest fitness brands? In this episode of Business Isn’t Hard, I sit down with Karl Sanft, President and CEO of 24 Hour Fitness, to explore his journey from his first management job at age 22 to leading thousands of employees nationwide. Karl shares practical leadership advice for young professionals and recent grads, including why early patience pays off, how to think in terms of a career lattice (not just a ladder), and what it really takes to inspire (not just instruct) your team. We talk about: Why slowing down early in your career can help you grow faster later How to prepare for promotions before they happen The difference between compliance and commitment in leadership How to motivate people to give their best—not just do the bare minimum Why creating your own path matters more than copying someone else’s Tune in now!

Building a Brewery with Sue Rigler

In this episode, we dive deep into the inspiring journey of Sue Rigler (Tempe Business Woman of the Year), a passionate entrepreneur who built Hundred Mile Brewing Co. from the ground up. You’ll learn how everything she did - from her early experiences to securing funding and building the right team - was a step-by-step process fueled by relentless passion and hard work. Discover why having a team that truly fits your company culture is critical, how mastering delegation instead of micromanaging can transform your business, and why community involvement is at the heart of lasting success. Whether you’re starting your own business or looking to grow, this episode offers actionable insights and lessons from a real business leader who knows what it takes to go from dream to reality.

Building an International Business with Jason Quagliata

In this episode of Business Isn’t Hard, I sit down with Jason Quagliata, founder of Q Logistics Group, to unpack what it really takes to go from employee to entrepreneur. Jason’s journey started with years of international experience - living abroad, learning the industry from the inside out, and building authentic relationships that would later become the foundation of his business. We talk about why working within an industry before launching your own venture gives you a real competitive edge, how to develop and actually execute a business plan, and the mindset required to spot opportunities others miss. Jason also shares insights on going solo versus having partners, how to build cross-functional experience early in your career, and what it takes to earn trust in international markets. Whether you’re a college student, aspiring founder, or early-career professional, this episode is full of actionable takeaways for building something that lasts.

How to Thrive in a Startup with Bill Binch

In this episode, I sit down with Bill Binch, an early team member at Marketo and current operating partner at Battery Ventures. Bill shares his journey of working inside high-growth startups—what it takes, what most people get wrong, and how to stand out when the pace is relentless. You’ll learn the difference between founders and operators, why being an “A player” is essential in a startup environment, and how to bring real value from day one. Bill also dives into the power of simply asking, how to land mentors who can change your trajectory, and why cultural fit is just as important as skillset. If you're a student, recent grad, or someone curious about breaking into startups, this episode is packed with practical insight and real-world perspective from someone who’s been in the trenches.

The Simple Keys to Success with Dave McLurg

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.

Finding your Passion with Kurt Watkins

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.

What does a CEO actually do? with Brandon Wilson

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.

Finding your Passion with Brandon Clarke

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/

How to Get Anyone to Like You with Tom Behan

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.

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