Early careers do not grow strong in perfect conditions. In this episode of the Executive Forum at Purdue University’s Daniels School of Business, Steven Emch, President of the Orr Fellowship, explains why your career needs resistance to build real strength. Using the story of trees inside Biosphere 2 that grew fast but fell over without wind, Steven reframes discomfort, feedback and stretch assignments as essential to early career development. He challenges students to think in career seasons, invest deeply when they have flexibility and make choices that create options for “future you.” Steven also shares what separates high potential professionals from the rest, including humility, coachability, discipline and personal agency. This conversation offers a practical blueprint for career stretch goals and long-term growth that lasts. Subscribe to stay inspired by industry leaders shaping the future of business. Discover more from this speaker on our blog: https://business.purdue.edu/daniels-insights/