Krishen Iyer built his career on vision, persistence, and a focus on solving real problems. He studied at San Diego State University, where his interest in business and systems took shape. That foundation prepared him to take on the fast-moving world of insurance and marketing.
After graduation, Krishen launched NMP Insurance Services, a company that quickly grew and earned a place on the Inc. 5000 list. The recognition reflected not just growth but his ability to see opportunities in crowded markets and turn them into lasting results.
Krishen went on to create Managed Benefits Services, where he concentrated on lead generation and marketing platforms that helped businesses connect with customers in smarter ways. His approach was rooted in observing what wasn’t working, listening to frustrations, and building tools that made life easier for clients.
Over time, he expanded into consulting and holding companies like Iyer CRSI and MAIS Consulting, and added real estate investment to his portfolio. Each step showed his adaptability and belief in creating value across different industries.
Beyond business, Krishen has also given time and energy to his community. Through 4 Humans Inc., he supports projects that bring resources and opportunities to those who need them most.
Krishen Iyer’s story reflects a steady path of growth—education, entrepreneurship, innovation, and service. His journey shows how focus and adaptability can turn early curiosity into long-term success.
Q&A with Krishen Iyer:
What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?
I start early and use mornings for strategic work. That’s when I review data, think through challenges, and make key decisions. Afternoons are for collaboration—meetings, brainstorming, and connecting with partners. Evenings, I step back and reflect. Productivity for me isn’t about packing the day full. It’s about protecting time for the tasks that actually move things forward.
How do you bring ideas to life?
Most of my ideas start with observation. I watch how people behave, what frustrates them, and how they try to solve problems on their own. When I noticed professionals struggling to connect with customers in a scalable way, that led to Managed Benefits Services. The key is taking those frustrations and building systems around them. I test ideas small first, then expand if they work.
What’s one trend that excites you?
Personalisation. Whether it’s in marketing, insurance, or even health, people want services that match their exact needs. This excites me because it means consumers are more engaged and businesses have to step up to meet those expectations.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
Every night, I write down three tasks for the next day. That small act clears my head. When I start in the morning, I don’t waste energy figuring out where to begin.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Be patient. Early on, I wanted results immediately. But growth takes time. Building something meaningful is more like running a marathon than a sprint. I would tell myself not to confuse speed with progress.
Tell us something you believe that almost nobody agrees with you on.
I believe boredom is useful. Most people avoid it, but I think it creates space for new ideas. Some of my clearest solutions came while waiting in an airport lounge or sitting without distractions.
What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?
Listen before you respond. In business, there’s pressure to have answers fast. But asking questions and letting people explain often reveals more than you expect. Listening has saved me from costly mistakes more than once.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
I take a short walk. It sounds simple, but movement clears the mind. During a busy quarter a few years back, I blocked ten minutes between meetings for short walks. That small break kept me from burning out and helped me return sharper.
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?
Paying attention to consumer “hacks.” People reveal unmet needs when they create their own workarounds. Early in my career, I noticed insurance agents piecing together clumsy systems to generate leads. That gap inspired me to build platforms that did the work better. Observing hacks has become a habit—it’s often where the best business ideas come from.
What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?
I once overpromised on a timeline for a project. The team worked hard, but the result felt rushed, and trust with the client suffered. I owned the mistake and learned to set more realistic expectations. Today, I’d rather underpromise and deliver strong than push a deadline that can’t be met.
What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?
A marketplace for micro-skills—15-minute lessons that help people pick up practical abilities without committing to full courses. From negotiation to stress management, short lessons fit the way people learn today.
What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?
Trello. It gives me a visual layout of projects. Moving tasks from “To Do” to “Done” seems minor, but it’s motivating and keeps me accountable.
What is the best $100 you recently spent?
A durable backpack. Carrying everything I need—laptop, documents, personal items—in one reliable bag makes daily life smoother. It’s a small change that pays back every day.
Do you have a favorite book or podcast (or both) from which you’ve gotten much value, and why?
Atomic Habits by James Clear. It reinforces the idea that small, steady actions create long-term impact. It fits perfectly with my own belief that success is built brick by brick.
What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?
I enjoyed Chef’s Table. Watching chefs from around the world push boundaries while staying true to their vision reminded me that persistence and creativity are universal.
Key Learnings
- Productivity comes from focus and protecting time for what matters most.
- Observing consumer behaviour and “hacks” can reveal unmet needs and spark innovation.
- Patience and realistic expectations are essential for building long-term trust and results.
- Reflection, listening, and small daily habits create momentum and sustainability.
- Balance through breaks and simplicity helps prevent burnout and keeps ideas fresh.