What do you do when every door in your life is closed?

In this episode of The Authority Company Podcast, Joe Pardavila sits down with Lintao Lu, known as LT, author of In Through the Window. His story starts in extreme poverty during China’s Cultural Revolution and spans four countries, multiple industries, and decades of leadership.

LT shares what it was like growing up during famine and political upheaval, where education was restricted and books were passed secretly by hand. From studying by a kerosene lamp to earning international scholarships and building a career as a CTO, entrepreneur, and global business leader, his journey challenges how most people think about opportunity.

At the center of his philosophy is a simple idea: when the door is closed, find another way in.

Joe and LT break down how belief shapes reality, why character matters more than circumstance, and how resilience, resourcefulness, and persistence separate those who move forward from those who stay stuck.

If you’ve ever felt blocked, overlooked, or stuck in your career or life, this conversation will change how you approach obstacles.

00:00 Intro, From Poverty to Global Leadership
00:41 Growing Up During China’s Cultural Revolution
01:10 Life During Famine and Political Control
02:32 Falling in Love with Education in a Restricted System
04:39 The Journey Out of China
06:19 Why China Sent Students Abroad
09:18 Stumbling Into a Career in Engineering and HVAC
11:03 From Kerosene Lamp to Entrepreneur
11:47 “Go Through the Window” Philosophy Explained
14:54 Daily Habits for Resilience and Growth
15:31 Why Belief and Character Shape Your Future
17:46 Final Thoughts on Success and Opportunity