Through the Door

Michael Crome's journey to the Las Vegas Raiders wasn't part of his original game plan. Megan Comfort sits down with the Raiders' CFO to discuss the mentors, experiences and lessons that shaped his path from humble beginnings in Ohio to the C-suite of one of the NFL's most iconic franchises. As a modern CFO+, Crome shares insights on building high-performing teams, creating strong organizational cultures and extending his impact far beyond finance. From career-defining decisions to running marathons on all seven continents, this conversation explores resilience, continuous learning and what it takes to succeed at the highest levels.

What if healthcare worked more like a membership service than an insurance claim? Megan Comfort sits down with Dr. Ati Hakimi, founder of Vegas Direct Primary Care, to explore a model that is challenging conventional healthcare. Hakimi discusses why she left corporate medicine, how direct primary care is helping patients access affordable and personalized care, and why she believes Nevada has an opportunity to rethink its healthcare future. From physician shortages and rising costs to entrepreneurship and advocacy, this episode offers a fresh perspective on one of the most important issues facing Nevada families and businesses today.

In the latest episode of “Through the Door,” Megan Comfort sits down with Steve Krystek, CEO of the PFC Group of Companies, a Las Vegas-based security and training firm and multi-company enterprise serving clients across the country. With more than 30 years in military, law enforcement, and protective services, Krystek shares how he built PFC from a side venture into a multi company enterprise rooted in discipline, trust, and adaptability. He opens up about scaling a business the right way, navigating a major internal fraud crisis, and why reputation over revenue remains his guiding principle as he leads a company where the stakes, and the expectations, are always high.

Megan Comfort sits down with Jeremy Aguero, Principal Analyst with Applied Analysis, for a wide‑ranging discussion on Nevada’s economic outlook and key findings from Nevada State Bank’s 13th Annual Small Business Survey. The episode takes listeners inside what small business owners are seeing on the ground and what it reveals about broader economic shifts. Aguero highlights rising optimism amid uncertainty, from easing workforce pressures to rapid AI adoption, and reframes resilience as a competitive advantage. His concept of “weaponized optimism” offers a sharp take on how businesses move forward by acting boldly, even when the path is unclear.

Megan Comfort 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.

Megan Comfort 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. 

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.

Megan Comfort 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.

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.

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.

Megan Comfort 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.

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.

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.

In “Episode Ten: Unlocking Business Potential with the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS),” host Megan Comfort sits down with Shelley Woodrow, a third-generation entrepreneur and Certified Implementer of the Entrepreneurial Operating System® (EOS®)—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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. For more information, visit truebookscpa.com.

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."

Carlos Gonzalez, Founder and President of C-Los Industries, began his career in skilled trades at 18. Determined to run his own business, he learned all aspects of company operations, from scalability to partnerships. In this episode, Carlos shares his journey from tradesman to successful entrepreneur, offering insights on financial prudence, the importance of a support system, and his commitment to financial education in his employee-owned business. For more information, visit closdesignsolutions.com. 

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. 

In the premiere episode of "Through the Door," host Megan Comfort is joined by Hayim Mizrachi, CCIM, to discuss overcoming challenges, resiliency, and business contingency planning. Hayim is CEO, Principal & Broker at MDL Group, Southern Nevada’s leading commercial real estate services provider, focusing on commercial property management, brokerage sales and leasing, investment advisory, and development services. For more information visit mdlgroup.com and hayim.com.

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