Balancing Family and Fame: The Realities of a Life in Show Business with Eric Streit

In this episode of "Neil on Business," host Neil Darling interviews Eric Streit, a Navy veteran who transitioned into a successful career in show business. Eric shares his journey from military service to working in reality television, stunts, and production, highlighting the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and seizing opportunities. The conversation covers his experiences at Disney, working abroad, and producing hit shows like "Little People, Big World." Eric offers insights on the evolving entertainment industry, work-life balance, and encourages listeners to embrace challenges and keep moving forward, making this episode both inspiring and practical for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Eric’s Early Life and Navy Experience (00:02:08) Eric shares his upbringing, joining the Navy at 16, and formative military experiences.

Transition to Show Business (00:03:20) Eric describes his move to Orlando, early entertainment jobs, and entry into stunts and temp work in LA.

Working with Fred Weintraub (00:04:15) Eric details his first big break in Hollywood, working for Fred Weintraub and Tom Kuhn.

Hidden Camera Show and Opportunity Mindset (00:04:48) Eric recounts being set up on a hidden camera show and how volunteering led to a producer role.

Navy Roles and Philosophy of Saying Yes (00:07:11) Eric explains his Navy duties, volunteering for everything, and how that shaped his career approach.

Gator Wrestling and Stunt Work (00:09:03) Eric discusses his experience as a gator wrestler and the skills required for dangerous stunts.

Lithuania and The New Adventures of Robin Hood (00:10:12) Eric talks about being sent to Lithuania for a TV series, his roles, and the unique production environment.

Show Details and Celebrity Encounters (00:11:29) Eric describes the show’s premise, notable cast members, and the excitement of working with icons.

Stunt Career Highlights (00:13:19) Eric shares favorite stunts, techniques, and the physical demands of stunt work.

Life in Lithuania and Post-Soviet Business (00:14:42) Eric reflects on living in Vilnius, old studio equipment, and witnessing rapid entrepreneurship.

Entry into Reality TV (00:17:02) Eric explains his move into reality TV, pitching shows, and early successes with Andrew Salt.

Rise of Reality TV and Little People, Big World (00:20:07) Eric discusses the stigma of reality TV, his work on Little People, Big World, and its cultural impact.

Impact and Legacy of Little People, Big World (00:22:03) Eric explains why the show resonated, its Guinness record, and its global influence.

Subsequent Reality Shows and Dangerous Animals (00:25:03) Eric outlines his work on Mall Cops, Snake Man of Appalachia, Gator Boys, and Naked and Afraid.

Vampires in America Project (00:26:22) Eric describes pitching and producing a vampire-themed reality special and its challenges.

Naked and Afraid: Apocalypse and Production Challenges (00:30:51) Eric previews a new iteration of Naked and Afraid, production difficulties, and the show's evolution.

Career Reflection and Versatility (00:32:40) Eric reflects on his multifaceted career, willingness to do any job, and satisfaction with his achievements.

Handling Failure and Entrepreneurial Advice (00:36:33) Eric shares his approach to failure, the importance of perseverance, and lessons from setbacks.

Industry Shifts and Dangerous Animal Show Downturn (00:39:02) Eric recounts the abrupt end of dangerous animal shows and the struggle to adapt in Hollywood.

AI and the Future of Entertainment (00:41:12)