Corey Parchman: 5 Things I Like to Watch on TV That Help Me with Business

When I do get a chance to slow down and turn on the TV, I’m intentional about what I watch. I don’t just want entertainment — I want perspective, strategy, and a reminder of how leadership and creativity show up in different forms. These five shows have each given me valuable lessons that apply directly to business, leadership, and entrepreneurship.

1. Shark Tank

Every episode of Shark Tank feels like a masterclass in pitching, valuation, and negotiation. I love watching how entrepreneurs tell their stories, explain their numbers, and handle tough questions. You quickly learn that passion matters, but preparation matters more. Watching the Sharks analyze deals also helps me sharpen how I evaluate real estate projects and investor opportunities — it’s all about knowing your value and being ready to defend it.

2. The Profit

Marcus Lemonis breaks down every business using his “People, Process, and Product” formula, and that structure is gold. It’s a reminder that even the best idea can’t survive without the right people or systems in place. When I watch The Profit, I think about how I can simplify and strengthen CorePar Development’s processes and build teams that can run effectively without me needing to micromanage.

3. Million Dollar Listing

Beyond the luxury homes and big personalities, Million Dollar Listing is all about relationships, branding, and execution. I appreciate how these agents balance client expectations, market data, and emotional intelligence — the same mix that real estate development requires. It reinforces how much presentation, confidence, and follow-through matter when you’re closing big deals or pitching investors.

4. Bar Rescue

Jon Taffer doesn’t just fix bars — he fixes leadership. Watching Bar Rescue reminds me that many problems in business aren’t about the product; they’re about accountability and standards. When a leader starts accepting excuses, the whole culture falls apart. I’ve learned that turning around a struggling business often starts with being brutally honest, rebuilding trust, and leading by example.

5. Undercover Boss

This show hits home for me. Every episode is a reminder that no matter how high up you go, leadership is about people. Undercover Boss shows the importance of empathy, listening, and recognizing the unseen effort of your team. It inspires me to stay connected with the day-to-day work — whether that’s walking a construction site, checking in on training programs, or just having real conversations with the people who make the mission possible.

Final Thoughts

These shows might come from different industries, but they all share a common theme: strong leadership, clear vision, and adaptability. They remind me that success doesn’t happen by accident — it’s built one decision, one relationship, and one lesson at a time.