Meet Eric Hylick

We recently connected with Eric Hylick and have shared our conversation below.

Eric, thank you so much for joining us today and appreciate you talking about a sensitive topic. It’s unfortunately relevant to so many in the community as layoffs have been on the rise recently, and so we’d appreciate hearing your story and how you overcame being let go?

I’ve experienced both sides of the coin when it comes to career setbacks—an unexpected layoff despite being a top performer with awards and recognition, and working in a hostile environment that eventually forced me to move on.

The first experience was humbling. I had the numbers, the accolades, the respect of my peers—yet one day the decision came down that had nothing to do with performance. That taught me that sometimes business decisions are simply bigger than the individual, and it’s not a reflection of your value.

The second was tougher in a different way. Thriving in a toxic environment takes a toll on your mental, emotional, and even physical well-being. I had to make a choice: stay and slowly diminish, or leave and rebuild. Choosing myself was the best decision I ever made.

Here’s what helped me overcome both:

Reframing the setback: Instead of asking “Why me?”, I asked “What’s next for me?” That shifted my mindset from victimhood to ownership.

Doubling down on growth: I used the time to expand my skills, network strategically, and align myself with opportunities that matched my values.

Turning pain into purpose: Those seasons gave me the resilience and perspective to launch new ventures and pour into others facing similar challenges.

Looking back, those “losses” became some of my greatest wins. They pushed me out of comfort zones I might never have left on my own and gave me the fuel to build something bigger than a paycheck—legacy.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

At my core, I’ve always been a builder. Not just of businesses or platforms, but of people, families, and legacies. My professional journey has taken me through corporate highs and lows—earning awards and recognition on one hand, while also facing layoffs and even hostile environments on the other. Those experiences taught me something invaluable: titles and accolades may come and go, but the ability to create something lasting—to build—is where true fulfillment lies. That realization became the heartbeat of my current work.

Today, I serve as the Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Build Network TV (BNTV), a streaming media company that lives on platforms like Roku, Amazon Fire Stick, Apple TV, Google TV, iOS, Android and Samsung. But BNTV isn’t just “another channel.” It’s a digital legacy platform built on the belief that media should do more than entertain—it should educate, empower, and equip people to thrive.

What excites me most about BNTV is the transformation it sparks. Traditional networks tell stories; we deliver impact. Our award-winning flagship show, Becoming a Millionaire Power Couple, shines a light on couples who are rewriting the rules of marriage and money. Our mental health programming, like Mind Matters, breaks stigmas and opens up real conversations. Our expanding catalog of original dramas and family programming brings together entertainment with purpose, reminding audiences that what you consume shapes how you live.

But BNTV isn’t only about what happens on screen—it’s also about building opportunities behind it. We’re actively creating pathways for producers, creators, and entrepreneurs to launch projects, tell their stories, and reach global audiences through our platform. In that sense, BNTV doubles as both a stage and a school: a place where people can showcase their vision and learn how to build with excellence.

Right now, we’re in one of our most exciting growth phases. We’ve launched new BUILD Training Programs—curriculums and coaching experiences designed to help individuals, couples, and families strengthen identity, financial literacy, and purpose. We’re preparing to debut the BNTV Film Festival, which will give filmmakers a chance to showcase their creativity to a worldwide audience. And we’re expanding into Web3 technologies—with tokenization, gamified engagement, and metaverse experiences—so viewers aren’t just watching, they’re participating and benefiting in brand-new ways.

If there’s one thing I want readers to know about my brand, it’s this: BNTV is not just a network—it’s a movement. Our tagline says it best: Where Purpose Meets Opportunity. Every show, every partnership, every event is designed to leave people better than we found them. For me, that’s the ultimate reward: building without breaking what matters most, and helping others do the same.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Looking back over my journey, I’d say three qualities stand out as the most impactful: resilience, vision, and relational intelligence.

Resilience was non-negotiable. I’ve faced situations that could have broken me—unexpected layoffs, toxic work environments, doors slammed shut just when I thought I was gaining momentum. What got me through wasn’t avoiding challenges, but choosing to rise after them. My advice to those early in their journey is this: expect setbacks, but don’t let them define you. Build your resilience like a muscle—by leaning into the tough seasons and reminding yourself that temporary obstacles don’t cancel permanent purpose.

Vision gave me direction when the road wasn’t clear. It’s one thing to set goals; it’s another to see beyond the immediate and build for the future. When I started BNTV, I wasn’t just creating a streaming channel—I was designing a legacy platform. My advice? Train yourself to think bigger than the job title, the paycheck, or even the current season you’re in. Ask yourself often, What impact do I want to leave behind? That question will guide you when the details feel overwhelming.

Relational intelligence has been the hidden engine behind so much of my success. Knowing how to build authentic relationships, communicate across differences, and bring people together has opened doors that talent alone never could. For those starting out, I’d say: invest in people as much as you invest in skills. Your network isn’t just who you know—it’s how you show up, how you serve, and how you create win-wins.

If I could leave one piece of advice, it would be this: focus less on being impressive and more on being impactful. Skills get you in the room, but qualities like resilience, vision, and relational intelligence are what keep you there—and eventually, put you at the head of the table.

What is the number one obstacle or challenge you are currently facing and what are you doing to try to resolve or overcome this challenge?

The number one challenge I’m currently facing is the balancing act of scaling a fast-growing vision while staying grounded personally and spiritually. When you get a vision and a blueprint from God, there’s nothing more exciting than stepping into it. You want to share it with others, anticipating their support and partnership. But one of the most disappointing realities is when people give you lip service—nodding in agreement, making promises—but take no real action. At times, it feels like you’re walking the journey alone.

What keeps me grounded is my faith. Honestly, if it had not been for my relationship with Jesus, I don’t know where I would be. There are moments when strategy, experience, and even accolades aren’t enough—when the discouragement or the weight of responsibility could easily overwhelm me. It’s in those moments that I lean on prayer, scripture, and the reminder that God’s timing is perfect. I’m learning daily that the vision he gives me isn’t dependent on human approval; it’s sustained by his provision.

And in that space, I can’t overlook my wife—my biggest and truest support. She’s authentic, sincere, and unwavering in her belief in both me and the vision God has given us. She proves the point that it matters deeply who you choose to build life, love, and legacy with. Her partnership reminds me that while the journey may feel lonely at times, I’m never truly alone.

So, I approach this challenge by keeping my eyes on God, walking in faith, and cherishing the rare, genuine support systems He’s placed in my life. That combination helps me push through lip service and lean into lasting purpose.

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