Through the Door: The Insider's Perspective on Running a Business

Livin' on the Edge

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 08:00:00 -0700

Megan Comfort, Director of Business Banking at Nevada State Bank, welcomes Matthew McMurry, Director of Operations at Leading Edge Scaffold, for an in‑depth conversation on leadership, entrepreneurship, and managing large‑scale construction operations. McMurry reflects on his career in the trades and how hands‑on field experience influences his approach to safety, problem‑solving, and team development. He discusses leading high‑risk projects, including complex infrastructure and event builds, scaling a national business without losing culture, and knowing when to empower others to lead. Throughout the episode, McMurry emphasizes humility, accountability, and disciplined decision‑making as cornerstones of effective leadership and long‑term business success.

All price references and market forecasts correspond to the date of this recording. This podcast should not be copied, distributed, published or reproduced in whole or in part. The information contained in this podcast does not constitute research, recommendations, representations or warranties as to the accuracy or completeness of the statements of any information contained in this podcast and any liability from Zions Bancorporation, N.A or its divisions (including direct, indirect, or consequential loss or damage) is expressly disclaimed. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of Zions Bancorporation, N.A. or any of its divisions. Zions Bancorporation, N.A. is not providing any financial, economic, legal, accounting or tax advice or recommendations in this podcast. In addition, the receipt of this podcast by any listener is not to be taken as constituting the giving of advice, investment or otherwise, by Zions Bancorporation, N.A. to that listener, nor to constitute such person a client of Zions Bancorporation, N.A. Copyright reserved by Zions Bancorporation, N.A. Nevada State Bank is a division of Zions Bancorporation, N.A. Member FDIC

Leading by Example with Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0800

Megan Comfort, Small Business Manager at Nevada State Bank, sits down with Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo for a focused conversation about leading the state as its chief executive, the principles shaped by a lifetime of public service, and his outlook for Nevada’s economic future. Governor Lombardo reflects on lessons from the military and law enforcement, explains how clear communication and systems thinking guide his approach to decision making, and shares how streamlining regulations, improving efficiency, and strengthening education contribute to long‑term economic resilience. He also discusses the importance of trust, collaboration, and accountability in leadership, along with the guiding principle that continues to shape his work.

Making Waves With Katie Grimes

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 12:00:00 -0800

Host Megan Comfort sits down with Olympic medalist and world champion swimmer Katie Grimes to talk discipline, joy, mental resilience, and the mindset required to perform at the highest level. Katie traces her path from swimming for fun at age six to qualifying for the Games at 15, competing in COVID‑restricted Tokyo, and the friendships and team culture that shaped her growth. She reflects on balancing school and training at the University of Virginia, the pressures and privileges of representing the United States, and how she stays authentic while navigating sponsorships and building her personal brand. She also dives into journaling, energy and motivation, supporting teammates, and why “the grass is greener where you water it” guides her as she looks ahead.

The Art of Scaling Up and Scaling Out

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 08:00:00 -0800

Megan Comfort, Small Business Manager at Nevada State Bank, sits down with Lisa Sutton Gunderson—Entrepreneur, Real Estate Investor, and Venture Capitalist—for an in-depth conversation about building and scaling businesses across multiple industries. Sutton Gunderson shares her journey from attorney to multi-business owner, starting with an alcohol-infused cupcake company that grew into a national brand, and later expanding into real estate, e-commerce, and shipping retail. She discusses lessons learned from partnerships, diversification, and selling a business, as well as the importance of mindset, outsourcing expertise, and leveraging social media as a powerful marketing tool. Sutton Gunderson also highlights her work with The Veteran Fund and her commitment to fostering community and collaboration among entrepreneurs nationwide.

The Business of HELPing People: Leading a Nonprofit in Nevada

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0800

Megan Comfort sits down with Fuilala Riley, President and CEO of HELP of Southern Nevada, to explore how the nonprofit grew from a small team into a 160-employee organization tackling homelessness and poverty in Southern Nevada. Riley shares her journey from volunteer to CEO, the organization’s holistic approach to supporting individuals and families, and the vital role businesses and community collaborations play in sustaining services. She highlights programs that prevent and end homelessness, workforce development initiatives, and the impact of efforts like the KLUC Toy Drive. Riley also offers insight into navigating economic challenges, advocating for systemic change, and why listening to and understanding people is at the heart of HELP’s mission.

Fast Lane to Opportunity with Formula 1

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0800

Megan Comfort sits down with Lori Nelson-Kraft, Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs for the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix. With decades of experience in communications and community engagement, Nelson-Kraft shares how Las Vegas became the flagship U.S. destination for Formula 1 and how the race has grown into a year-round economic and cultural force. She discusses the city's unique appeal, the nearly billion-dollar impact of race week, and how F1 is creating opportunities for small businesses, nonprofits, and students through local partnerships and STEM-focused initiatives.

Takin' Care of Business(es)

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 10:00:00 -0700

Megan Comfort, Small Business Manager at Nevada State Bank, sits down with Steven Snow, Pacific Regional Administrator for the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). A former startup employee and founder of an automotive consulting firm, Snow brings a firsthand perspective on the challenges small business owners face. He shares how those early experiences shaped his mission to expand access, reduce regulatory barriers, and support entrepreneurs through evolving SBA programs. From new tools to emerging trends, Snow offers insights into how the SBA is helping businesses grow, adapt, and lead with resilience.

Take Me to Your Leader

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 08:00:00 -0700

In the latest episode of “Through the Door,” Megan Comfort sits down with Juanny Romero, CEO and founder of Mothership Coffee Roasters—one of the few woman-owned coffee brands in the country. A child of immigrants and a self-made entrepreneur, Romero has spent the past 15 years growing a business that reflects her values.

Romero opens up about scaling with soul, building inclusive spaces, and leading with love, grit, and purpose. She shares her journey from a self-described “professional at failing forward” to running an eight-figure business rooted in community, culture, and connection—guided by principles that prioritize safe spaces, ethical sourcing, and authentic relationships.

Haute Dog Hospitality

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 08:00:00 -0700

Just in time for National Dog Month, the latest episode of “Through the Door” features Megan Comfort, Small Business Manager at Nevada State Bank, in conversation with Lisa Imbesi, owner of Pawsh Palace — an all-suite, state-of-the-art luxury pet care and wellness facility in Las Vegas where the dogs are the VIPs. A former nightlife hostess, Lisa set out in 2015 to create the Ritz-Carlton of pet hotels, offering five-star service to four-legged guests.

In this episode, she shares how she turned her vision into a thriving business in a city known for world-class hospitality. From launching a boutique brand to keeping high-end canine clients (and their humans) happy, Megan and Lisa dig into every detail of what it takes to succeed in the luxury pet care space.

Unlocking Business Potential with the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS)

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0700

In “Episode Ten: Building Businesses Using the Entrepreneurial Operating System,” host Megan Comfort, Small Business Manager at Nevada State Bank, sits down with Shelley Woodrow, a third-generation entrepreneur and Certified Implementer of the Entrepreneurial Operating System® —a business framework designed to help organizations gain clarity, accountability, and traction. Woodrow shares her journey from launching her first business at 19 to leading media companies and ultimately discovering EOS as a transformative framework. She explains how EOS tools like the Accountability Chart and Vision Traction Organizer help leadership teams align, define roles, and execute long-term goals. Through real-world examples, she highlights the importance of culture, core values, and asking the right questions to drive meaningful change and sustainable growth.

How to Become a Brunch Boss

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 08:00:00 -0700

In “Episode Nine: From Busser to Brunch Boss,” host Megan Comfort welcomes Nik Poptchev, Co-Owner of AmeriBrunch Cafe, to share his remarkable journey from Bulgarian immigrant and Chicago busser to successful Las Vegas restaurateur. Poptchev recounts how AmeriBrunch Cafe evolved from a modest coffee shop into a bustling Downtown Las Vegas brunch hotspot, driven by a commitment to authentic hospitality, customer feedback, and hands-on leadership. He opens up about the challenges of renovating a restaurant space, the strategic use of social media storytelling, and his vision for expanding or franchising the beloved local eatery. This episode offers an inspiring look at resilience, entrepreneurship, and the power of community in building a thriving business.

Data to Empower Your Business

Tue, 06 May 2025 08:00:00 -0700

In “Episode Eight: Data to Empower Your Business,” host Megan Comfort sits down with Jeremy Aguero and Brian Gordon, principals of Applied Analysis, to explore the company’s 28-year journey as one of Nevada’s most respected economic consulting firms. Lifelong friends turned business partners, Aguero and Gordon share how they’ve built a values-driven organization rooted in integrity, innovation, and mentorship, while highlighting their role in shaping major economic initiatives across the state—from Allegiant Stadium and the commerce tax to infrastructure planning and fiscal policy. They also break down the results of NSB’s 12th annual Small Business Survey, offering a detailed look at the perspectives of business owners and executives on the key issues impacting Nevada’s small business landscape.

Blue-Collar Principles

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 10:00:00 -0700

In the latest episode of "Through the Door," Jared Lawson, Managing Member of RSP Plumbing, EarthSculpt Landscaping, and Karst Construction, joins host Megan Comfort to discuss his remarkable journey from a young laborer to a thriving entrepreneur. Lawson shares insights into overcoming the challenges of the construction industry, the critical role of transparent communication with employees and clients, and the strategies that have driven his businesses' success. He also offers valuable information for aspiring business owners, emphasizing the importance of passion, resilience, and strategic planning. For more information, visit www.earthsculptnv.com.

Let's Taco 'Bout Branding

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 11:00:00 -0800

Kristen Corral, Co-Founder of Tacotarian and Good Morning Kitchen, joins host Megan Comfort to share her unique journey from Las Vegas performer to successful restaurateur. Kristen reveals her secrets to success, emphasizing the importance of community engagement, impactful marketing, and maintaining an authentic brand. She also discusses business expansion, franchising plans, and a humorous anecdote she calls "Watergate." For more information, visit eattacotarian.com.

Accounting at Scale

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 10:00:00 -0800

In the latest episode of "Through the Door," Megan sits down with Matt Bontrager, CPA and Managing Partner of TrueBooks. Matt launched his accounting and tax services business in January 2020, right before the pandemic hit. Despite the challenges, his firm thrived thanks to their virtual setup, increased demand for financial services, strong online presence, and range of educational products. Tune in to hear Matt share insights on navigating rapid growth, the benefits of a flexible workplace, and the importance of team dynamics.

Building a Multigenerational Legacy

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 09:00:00 -0800

Thomas A. Thomas, Managing Partner of Thomas & Mack Co., joins Megan to share his invaluable tips for enduring business success. Discover how strategic thinking, conservative debt management, and building partnerships based on shared values have driven his remarkable career. With an extensive background in banking, Thomas serves on NSB's Advisory Board. Don't miss out on his insights and experience in this must-listen episode of "Through the Door."

From Tradesman to Businessman

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 14:00:00 -0800

Carlos Gonzalez is the Founder and President of C-Los Industries, a successful construction company based in Las Vegas. With a career spanning several decades, Carlos has worked in the trades since he was 18, gaining extensive experience in manufacturing and construction. His entrepreneurial journey began after years of working for other companies, where he learned the importance of scalability, financial management, and strategic planning. Carlos is known for his commitment to financial education, both for himself and his employees, and for fostering a supportive, family-oriented work environment. He values humility, respect, and empowering his team, which has been integral to his company's growth and success. Carlos is also a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, and a classic car enthusiast.

Day One Energy

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 06:00:00 -0800

Jonathan Jossel, CEO of the Plaza Hotel & Casino, joins Megan to chat about becoming Nevada’s youngest gaming license holder, reimagining a Las Vegas landmark, and maintaining “day one energy.” Since becoming CEO in 2014, Jossel has focused on enhancing the Plaza’s guest experience, recently completing the Main Street Reimagination project with new venues such as the Carousel Bar and Pinkbox Doughnuts. For more information, visit plazahotelcasino.com.

Burning Holes in the Soles of Your Shoes

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 16:00:00 -0700

MDL Group | Hayim Mizrachi, CEO, Principal & Broker:

Hayim Mizrachi, CCIM is a proud Las Vegas Native and graduate from UNLV. He has been practicing commercial real estate since graduating university and obtained his CCIM designation early in his career. Hayim is CEO | Principal | Broker of MDL Group where he oversees all brokerage activity including sales and leasing.

Outside of work, Hayim is involved in many aspects of the Las Vegas Jewish community including volunteer work with The Jewish Federation and Alpha Epsilon Pi fraternity. He is very proud of his award-winning blog and podcast Takeaways, where he shares his Takeaways from events that he attends and people who have influenced him throughout his life.

For more information about MDL group or Hayim, visit www.hayim.com

About Through the Door: The Insider’s Perspective on Running a Business

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 15:00:00 -0700

Join us for our new podcast series, “Through the Door: The Insider’s Perspective on Running a Business,” curated for Nevada business owners and leaders. Each episode features interviews with thought leaders who share stories of their journeys and experiences and provide insights and strategies for growth and success.

Our podcast serves as a source of inspiration for entrepreneurs and executives who are looking for solutions and information to help elevate and open doors for their business.

For more information visit nsbank.com/podcast