Startup Anthology

In this episode of Startup Anthology, we have a special guest, Joseph Kopser, a retired Lt. Col. in the US Army, West Point alum, startup founder, and serial entrepreneur at the July 2025 Military Connected Monthly Mentorship Meetup (MCM3) in Austin at Capital Factory. Joseph shares his journey from the military to entrepreneurship, including founding RideScout while still serving in the Army. He also talks about his leadership experiences, the importance of mentorship, and the upcoming 'Leading to WIN' event aimed at bridging the gap between military and civilian communities. Connect with Joseph Kopser: LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/josephkopser/ Company | https://graylinegroup.com/joseph-kopser/ Personal | https://bit.ly/KopserKeynoteEmCeeFlyer Email | joseph@graylinegroup.com Leading to WIN 2025: Bridging the gap between generations of military service, leadership, and innovation in America's military capital. For more information on 'Leading to WIN 2025', visit https://leading2win.org/. 🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more deep dives into startup leadership and culture. 📍Recorded live at the Military-Connected Mentorship Meetup with support from Command Post Cohort, Texas Veteran Chambers Coalition, and sponsors including, Syracuse University D'Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families [https://ivmf.syracuse.edu/], Combined Arms | Texas Veterans Network [https://www.combinedarms.us/texasveteransnetwork], Capital Factory [https://capitalfactory.com/], and JP Morgan Chase [https://www.jpmorganchase.com/]. 00:00 Introduction and Event Overview 00:45 Introducing Joseph Kopser 01:19 Joseph's Military Journey 07:17 Founding Ride Scout 14:46 Balancing Military and Entrepreneurship 17:54 Meeting Entrepreneurs at Gabriel's 19:01 Reflecting on the Journey 20:00 Discussing the Book 'Catalyst' 21:16 The Kodak Story and Innovation 23:58 Leadership and Creating a Moat 27:38 The Xerox Missed Opportunity 31:51 Leading to Win Conference https://commandpostcohort.com/ https://texasveteranschambers.org/ https://ivmf.syracuse.edu/ https://www.combinedarms.us/ https://capitalfactory.com/ https://www.jpmorganchase.com/ Descript - If you're a podcaster or videographer, you know how tedious editing can be. Descript makes editing audio and video in your browser easy, saving you time and effort! Join me and get a free trial with my affiliate link: https://get.descript.com/StartupAnthology #militarymentorship #veteranstories #startupjourney #networking #communitybuilding #entrepreneurship #veteransupport #militarylife #usarmy #startups #startupanthology

In this episode of Startup Anthology, I sit down with Dmitri Julius and Nathan Wang, the first hires at ICON, to unravel the intriguing debate of who truly holds the title of employee number one. Together, we explore the early days of ICON, recounting the chaos and camaraderie that fueled our groundbreaking mission to revolutionize housing through 3D printing. From humorous anecdotes about our unconventional hiring practices and operational challenges to heartfelt reflections on the lasting impact of company culture, we share the lessons learned from our unique journeys. Join us as we dive into the stories that shaped ICON and the friendships that remain a cornerstone of our experiences. #podcast #startupanthology #inspiration #startupculture #story #startupsuccess #icon #3dprinting #AppleTV #NewStory 00:00 Introduction to Startup Anthology 00:47 Meet Dmitri Julius 02:59 Nathan Wang's Journey to ICON 06:21 Defining Employee Number One at ICON 08:37 The Early Days and Challenges at ICON 19:47 ICON's First International Project 25:17 The Culture and Camaraderie at ICON 39:12 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Early Struggles 48:12 Imperial vs Metric: A Practical Choice 50:43 The Legacy of Humor in Company Culture 51:51 Building a Team: The Key to Success 58:17 Navigating Company Growth and Change 01:05:09 Reflections on Personal and Professional Growth 01:13:12 The Journey of Founding and Leaving ICON 01:25:11 New Ventures and Future Aspirations 01:29:32 Acknowledging the Team Behind the Success DISCLAIMER: "The opinions and views expressed in this podcast are those of the host/guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency or company, including Icon Technology, Inc."

Journey to Japan: A Conversation with Missionaries Kostya and Bella Tustanovskyis On this episode of Startup Anthology, I'm joined by Brian Henson lead pastor at Trinity Community Church [https://trinitychurchtx.org/] in Cedar Park, TX. Together, we sit down with Kostya and Bella Tustanovskyis delve into their journey as missionaries, church planters and entrepreneurs. Kostya and Bella are both originally from Ukraine, but they met while Kostya was working at Sojourn Church in Uganda. They discuss how they met in Uganda, and their passion for spreading the gospel in Japan. They delve into the calling that led them to one of the world's most unreached nations and talk about the challenges and blessings that come with adapting to a new culture. The episode also covers their vision for building community and planting churches in Tokyo and the vital role of partnerships in their mission. Tune in to hear about their heartfelt journey, the impact of their work, and how they navigate their faith and family life in the mission field. 📍Recorded live at Red Horn Brewery & Roastery [https://redhornbrew.com/] in Leander, TX. To learn more about Kostya and Bella, and to partner with them on their journey to Japan, visit https://forthejoy.city/ 🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more deep dives into startup leadership and culture. If you're a podcaster or videographer, you know how tedious editing can be. Descript makes editing audio and video in your browser easy, saving you time and effort! Join me and get a free trial with my affiliate link: https://get.descript.com/StartupAnthology 00:00 Journey to Japan: The Mission and Vision of Kostya and Bella 00:27 Startup Anthology Intro 01:38 Introduction and Background 02:19 Meeting and Early Life 03:47 Missionary Work in Uganda 07:01 Calling to Japan 22:57 Vision Trip to Japan 28:57 Welcoming Hands and Hearts 29:43 Different Ministry Approaches in Tokyo 31:40 Choosing to Work with Soma 32:06 Choosing Soma Tokyo 32:29 Emphasis on Emotionally Healthy Discipleship 34:46 The Role of Non-Japanese Missionaries 40:11 Long-Term Vision and Patience in Church Planting 48:47 Challenges and Prayer Requests 53:30 Final Thoughts and Farewell #Acts29 #ChurchPlanting #CommunityBuilding #Descript #Discipleship #EmotionalHealth #Entrepreneur #Entrepreneurship #TheGreatCommission #Japan #Missionaries #Missionary #RedHorn Brewery_Roastery #StartupAnthology #Startup Journey

In this episode of Startup Anthology, I sit down with Johanna Wynne, an inspiring Army veteran who transitioned into the startup world. We explore her journey from a military upbringing to her decision to forgo West Point for the University of Vermont, ultimately leading to a 20-year Army career. Johanna shares her experiences at Army Futures Command, likening it to a startup within a major organization, and discusses the challenges of joining a civilian startup post-retirement. We delve into her insights on leadership, risk-taking, and the importance of passion in the entrepreneurial world. Join us for a candid conversation about the lessons Johanna learned from military service and how they apply to the fast-paced startup environment. Whether you're a veteran entrepreneur or simply interested in leadership, this episode offers valuable perspectives on navigating transitions and embracing new opportunities.

Join me, Jeremy Willis, on Startup Anthology as we dive into a riveting conversation with retired Colonel Jim Orbock in our latest episode, From West Point to Startups: Leadership Lessons from Colonel (Ret.) Jim Orbock. Recorded live at the Military Connected Mentorship Meetup, Jim shares his remarkable journey from West Point to leading troops in Afghanistan, and now to entrepreneurship with Spartan Financial. Discover the challenges of transitioning from military leadership to startup culture and how Jim leverages servant leadership to build lasting team dynamics. We explore the importance of narrowing your vision, the value of mentorship, and the art of balancing personal and organizational goals. This episode is packed with insights for anyone navigating the startup world. Tune in to learn how to lead effectively, whether you're managing a team of five or a hundred.

This highlight reel captures the candid insights and creative wisdom of Kent Richeson as he delves into the world of startups, innovation, and embracing imperfection. From quirky ideas like language-translating gum to finding inspiration from Spider-Man, this reel showcases the human side of entrepreneurship and the power of bold, imperfect thinking. 🌟 What You’ll Learn: • [00:00:00] The spark behind absurd ideas—like chewing gum that translates languages—and how imagination fuels innovation. 🧠 • [00:00:18] The 24/7 nature of startup life—beyond the 9-to-5 mindset. 💼 • [00:00:25] How even Spider-Man can inspire entrepreneurial thinking. 🕸️ • [00:00:38] The importance of vulnerability and human connection in business. 🤝 • [00:01:00] Building businesses that uplift communities and sustain others. 🌍 • [00:01:09] Why imperfection and experimentation are essential for growth. 🎯 • [00:01:36] Creating a culture where “bad ideas” are stepping stones to breakthroughs. 💬 • [00:01:50] Taking control of your narrative while balancing priorities like family and well-being. ❤️ Whether you’re an aspiring founder, a seasoned entrepreneur, or simply curious about the startup journey, this reel is packed with actionable takeaways and thought-provoking moments. 🎬✨ 🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more highlights and inspiration from ShitPitch! #Startups #Entrepreneurship #ShitPitch #KentRicheson #Innovation #ImperfectIdeas #StartupCulture

Get ready to laugh, learn, and be inspired! In this highlight reel, Kent Richeson, founder of ShitPitch, shares how he’s turning the traditional startup pitch on its head. From “pigeon messaging” to “silent karaoke,” ShitPitch challenges founders to think on their feet, show their personalities, and embrace creativity in ways no pitch deck ever could. 💡 What’s Inside: • Why investors are tired of the same old pitch decks 📊 • The magic of experimenting and letting vulnerability shine ✨ • Memorable moments like “pigeon messaging” and heartfelt takes on “silent karaoke” 🎭 • How ShitPitch encourages founders to embrace failure and be their authentic selves 🌟 • Stories of engaging pitch events from New York to beyond 🗽 If you’re a founder, investor, or just love hearing innovative ideas (and hilarious pitches), this is for YOU! 👉 Watch the full episode for even more insights and stories: https://youtu.be/vHUxZsDSm60 💬 What’s your favorite highlight? Let us know in the comments! #ShitPitch #StartupLife #FounderJourney #CreativePitches #Entrepreneurship #Innovation #StartupStories

🎙️ Welcome to another episode of the Startup Anthology Podcast! Join me and Kent Richeson, the entrepreneur behind ShitPitch, as we explore his innovative approach to startup pitches. Discover how he's reimagining the traditional pitch deck, emphasizing founder personality and vision. Kent also shares insights from his unique startup journey. 💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The story behind ShitPitch and its mission to highlight the person behind the pitch. Why most traditional startup pitch events fall flat and how Kent’s approach changes the game. The challenges of building Shit Pitch from scratch—experimenting with formats, engaging investors, and scaling globally. How founders can improve their communication and self-awareness to build better teams and secure investments. Why experimenting, being curious, and embracing vulnerability are keys to entrepreneurial success. 🎥 Plus, Kent talks about Shit Pitch’s plans for the future, including hosting events in over 20 locations next year, collaborating with Expert Dojo and Google HQ in India, and exploring possibilities for a TV show to bring the unique ShitPitch experience to a global audience. 📌 Key Highlights: [00:01:35] The inspiration for Shit Pitch—showcasing founders’ authenticity. [00:06:10] The evolution of pitch formats—how impromptu “bad ideas” reveal a founder’s true strengths. [00:12:22] Silent karaoke, pigeon messaging, and the surprising depth behind humorous pitches. [00:18:00] Expanding globally: From Utah to New Delhi and beyond. [00:28:00] Sponsorship strategy and building lasting relationships with partners. [00:37:16] Balancing startup life and family—Kent’s take on involving his kids in his entrepreneurial journey. [00:45:53] Lessons learned: Being open to new ideas, taking risks, and learning through experimentation. 🔥 Whether you’re a founder, an aspiring entrepreneur, or just curious about the future of startups, this episode is packed with insights, humor, and inspiration. Don’t miss it! 👉 Connect with Kent Richeson and learn more about Shit Pitch: Website: https://shitpitch.com/ LinkedIn [Kent Richeson]: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kentricheson/ LinkedIn [ShitPitch]: https://www.linkedin.com/company/shit-pitch/ Instagram [Kent Richeson]: @KentRicheson Instagram [ShitPitch]: @ShitPitch 👍 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more startup stories and founder insights. 00:00 Welcome to Startup Anthology 00:52 Introducing Kent Richeson 01:35 The Concept of Shitpitch 05:26 Challenges and Early Stages 08:10 Experimenting with Pitch Formats 19:28 Expanding to New Territories 27:06 Sponsorship and Transparency 35:16 Balancing Family and Career 38:01 Mentorship and Lessons Learned 39:35 The Importance of Curiosity and Vulnerability 45:53 Taking Risks and Experimentation 48:59 Employee Mindset and Entrepreneurial Thinking 53:02 Advice to My Younger Self 55:43 Future Vision for ShitPitch 58:27 Connecting and Networking in Startups 01:03:00 Final Thoughts and How to Connect #StartupAnthology #ShitPitch #Entrepreneurship #StartupPitches #FoundersJourney #StartupPodcast #Podcast #Descript #StartupLife

🌟 What does it take to leave a secure job at Netflix and start your own EdTech company? Dive into this inspiring highlight reel of Jose Moreno’s journey to founding Neulight, where he’s revolutionizing education with world-class software inspired by Netflix principles.🔗 Connect with Startup Anthology: 🌟 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/startupanthology 👍 Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/StartupAntholo/ 🎵 TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@startupanthology 💼 LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/startupanthologyllc/ 🐦 X (Twitter):https://www.twitter.com/StartupAntholo 00:00 Creating Value at Netflix 00:12 Applying Netflix Principles to Neulight 00:27 Personal Touch in Customer Service 00:38 Learning from Failure 00:48 Inspiring Leadership 01:13 Persistence and Discipline 01:31 Progress and Patience #startup #edtech #innovation #inspiration #StartupJourney #FromNetflixToStartup #EdTechInnovation #NeulightAI #EntrepreneurshipStories #StartupSuccess #AIInEducation #MTSSFramework #JoseMorenoStory #StartupAnthology

From Netflix to revolutionizing education! Join us for an inspiring episode of Startup Anthology featuring Jose Moreno, former Netflix engineer and founder of groundbreaking ed-tech startup, Neulight. Jose shares his incredible journey, the challenges of building a tech company, and the lessons learned along the way. Whether you're an entrepreneur, tech enthusiast, or educator, this episode is packed with actionable insights to inspire your own path. Don't miss it!  🔗 Connect with Joes and Neulight: Neulight Website: Neulight.io Neulight Email: info@neulight.io Neulight YouTube: @Neulight_Tech LinkedIn (Neulight): linkedin.com/company/neulight/ LinkedIn (Jose): linkedin.com/in/joseneulight/ Instagram: @neulight.io Facebook: Neulight 📌 Highlights: Jose’s transformative roles at Microsoft and Netflix. The genesis of Neulight and its mission to revolutionize education. Insights into the MTSS framework and AI-driven student support systems. Overcoming challenges, building intuitive software, and fostering positive societal impact. 🔗 Connect with Startup Anthology: 🌟 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/startupanthology 👍 Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/StartupAntholo/ 🎵 TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@startupanthology 💼 LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/startupanthologyllc/ 🐦 X (Twitter):https://www.twitter.com/StartupAntholo 0:00 Introduction and Welcome 0:45 Jose’s Journey: From Netflix to Neulight 2:22 Why Start a Company? The Birth of Neulight 4:00 Spotting a Problem in EdTech 4:26 Understanding MTSS: A Framework for Student Support 7:25 Making Education Software UserFriendly 16:30 Demo Disaster: Overcoming a Startup Hiccup 18:20 Onboarding Schools and Gathering Feedback 35:32 Building a Complementary Team 38:38 The Power of Networking 39:36 Dealing with Imposter Syndrome 43:00 The Importance of Persistence 47:44 The Hippo Effect: Avoiding the Highest Paid Person’s Opinion 50:28 Managing Growth vs. Clean Code in a Startup 53:00 Final Words of Wisdom and Encouragement #startup #edtech #innovation #inspiration #StartupJourney #FromNetflixToStartup #EdTechInnovation #NeulightAI #EntrepreneurshipStories #StartupSuccess #AIInEducation #MTSSFramework #JoseMorenoStory #StartupAnthology

Packed with key takeaways, this video is perfect for anyone looking for quick, actionable advice on navigating job searches and the startup world. Watch the best moments from our first video episode, “The Struggle is REAL,” https://youtu.be/vZi-tGhkuEo featuring Cameron Owens’ inspiring journey of perseverance and growth during his career transition. 💡 What’s in This Highlight Reel? Finding Passion Early: Cameron’s journey into robotics, inspired by 90s anime and a dream of working with humanoid robots. Overcoming Setbacks: The challenges of job hunting during mass layoffs in the tech industry. Key Career Lessons: Why continuous learning, taking risks, and sharpening skills are essential for professional growth. Company Culture Matters: How to research potential employers and gauge if they’re the right fit for you. 🌟 Why Watch? Hear lessons on resilience, strategy, and growth, perfect for viewers short on time but hungry for inspiration. 🌐 Connect with us on Social Media: 🌟 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/startupanthology 👍 Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/StartupAntholo/ 🎵 TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@startupanthology 💼 LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/startupanthologyllc/ 🐦 X (Twitter):https://www.twitter.com/StartupAntholo 📌 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to Startup Anthology for more empowering stories and strategies for success in the startup world! #StartupAnthology #JobSearchMotivation #StartupSuccess #CareerTips StartupAnthology, JobSearchMotivation, StartupSuccess, CareerTips, EpisodeHighlights 00:00 Growing Up with a Passion for Robotics 00:33 Facing Job Market Challenges 01:10 Persistence in Job Applications 01:37 Landing an Internship 02:06 Taking Risks and Moving Forward 02:21 Continuous Learning and Adaptation 03:22 Interview Strategies and Company Research 03:38 Encouragement for Job Seekers

Cameron Owens discusses how Startup Anthology highlights shared struggles in the startup world. It’s a reminder that you’re not alone in taking risks and navigating challenges. Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/vZi-tGhkuEo or on Spotify: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/startupanthology/episodes/The-Struggle-is-REAL--Practical-tips-for-your-job-search-e2rvuhi #StartupLife #Entrepreneurship #SharedChallenges

In this inaugural video episode, The Struggle is REAL, we dive into the raw, unfiltered realities of the job search journey. Join Jeremy Willis and Cameron Owens as they share valuable insights, from employment to unemployment to rediscovering purpose and sharpening skills. Cameron recounts his experiences as an engineer in startups and his eventual transition to working on cutting-edge humanoid robotics.🔗 Connect with Cameron Owens:🐙 GitHub:https://github.com/candidcypher💼 LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameron-owens-80128a64/Whether you’re a seasoned professional, startup enthusiast, or someone currently job hunting, this episode is packed with practical tips, relatable stories, and actionable advice on:✅ Staying motivated during tough times✅ A/B testing your resume for success✅ Leveraging personal and professional networks✅ Maintaining balance and sharpening skills during career transitions🌟 Why Watch? You’ll gain inspiration, tools, and strategies to navigate career uncertainties and come out stronger—especially in the competitive startup world.🌐 Connect with us on Social Media:🌟 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/startupanthology👍 Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/StartupAntholo/🎵 TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@startupanthology💼 LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/startupanthologyllc/🐦 X (Twitter):https://www.twitter.com/StartupAntholo📌 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to Startup Anthology for more real stories and actionable advice from startup experts and enthusiasts.#StartupAnthology #JobSearchTips #CareerGrowth #EngineeringJourney #StartupLifeStartupAnthology, JobSearchTips, CareerGrowth, EngineeringJourney, StartupLife00:00 Introduction to the Startup Anthology01:12 Cameron's Background and Passion for Robotics02:08 The Decision to Leave and Pursue New Opportunities03:54 Navigating Job Search Challenges05:02 Support from Family and Network08:52 The Emotional Toll of Job Hunting16:18 First Steps into the Startup World22:25 Transitioning to Corporate Life26:13 Returning to Startups and Landing at Apptronic29:58 Disassociating Identity from Resume30:39 Navigating the Job Market32:12 Lessons Learned from Job Search32:42 Maintaining Perspective and Balance35:11 Adapting to Different Work Environments38:42 Showcasing Skills and Personal Projects44:18 Evaluating Company Culture50:43 Mentorship and Personal Growth53:12 Advice for Younger Self55:01 Life on the Hobby Farm01:00:04 Book Recommendations and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Startup Anthology host Jeremy engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Ross Miller, an accomplished entrepreneur and consultant with extensive experience in advertising, tech commercialization, and startup management. Ross recounts his journey from his early consulting days at Bradley University to leading ventures like RV Air and Natural Fiber Welding. Key topics of discussion include how to effectively balance risk and reward in startups, understanding the 'HiPPO Effect,' achieving career fulfillment, and strategic insights on exits and hiring. Ross also emphasizes the significance of a well-defined exit strategy and the critical roles employees play throughout a startup's lifecycle. Don't miss out on Ross's valuable advice for thriving in the dynamic world of startups. Quick Takeaways: Startup employees should carefully evaluate their risk tolerance to align their career choices with long-term goals and exit strategies. Leaders who promote open-ended questioning can reduce the impact of the HiPPO Effect, fostering a collaborative and innovative environment.

In this episode of Startup Anthology, Eric Sapiens shares his fascinating career journey from working in aerospace in Southern California to Austin, Texas and joining Icon, an automated construction company that 3D prints homes. Eric delves into his early days as a forklift operator, his foray into CMM programming, and his self-taught exploits in metrology and CNC machines. Eric provides insights into the importance of continuous learning, adapting to new roles, and the impact of mentorship. His passion for tinkering and problem-solving paved the way for his role in a high-tech startup, and his encounter with Squishy Brains, a formative influence in his transition to Texas. Join us as Eric recounts his transformations, lessons learned, and the serendipitous twists that shaped his professional path. Chapters & Timestamps [00:00] Startup Anthology Introduction [01:28] Journey to Austin [02:51] Early Career in Aerospace [04:15] Discovering CNC and Metrology [06:19] Learning and Mastering CMM [10:57] Diving into Programming [12:51] Tinkering and Troubleshooting [17:55] Discovering TwinCat and YouTube Tutorials [18:18] The TwinCat Turning Point [20:37] Taking Charge of the Automated Cell [21:16] From Forklift Driver to Controls Engineer [22:07] The Squishy Brain Connection: Moving to Texas [23:59] Joining Icon: The Interview Process [25:07] Learning and Growing with the New Team [27:17] The Importance of Mentorship and Continuous Learning [31:36] Balancing Multitasking and Focus [33:53] Reflecting on Career and Personal Growth [35:53] Wisdom from the Book of Proverbs [38:10] Overcoming Challenges and Finding Fulfillment

In this episode of Startup Anthology, I welcome Olga Pogoda, the Chief Operating Officer of KEF Robotics and a seasoned startup veteran with 15 years of experience. Olga shares her inspiring journey from the corporate world to startups. We discussed her background working for a large bank, moving to a consultant in the startup ecosystem, becoming a co-founder of her own startup, and her current role as COO at KEF Robotics in Pittsburg, PA. Olga emphasizes the cultural and operational differences between corporate and startup culture, the importance of mentorship, and the challenges and joys of the fast-paced startup life. She also touches on her experiences as a woman in the tech and defense industries and the complexities of work-life balance. Throughout the episode, she provides valuable insights into the addictive nature of startup culture and the personal growth that comes from working in such dynamic settings. Chapters/Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Gratitude 00:23 Introduction to Startup Anthology 00:43 Meet Olga Pogoda: A Startup Veteran 02:37 Olga's Journey from Corporate to Startups ​07:12 The Addictive Nature of Startups 09:31 Navigating Startup Culture and Growth ​16:24 Mentorship and Learning in Startups ​20:19 Challenges as a Woman in Defense and Tech ​21:23 Challenges Faced by Women in Tech ​21:59 Positive Changes in the Industry ​22:51 Recruiting Women in Robotics and Defense ​23:03 Join the Startup Anthology Community ​23:38 Becoming a Mentor ​25:59 Balancing Work and Family Life ​30:31 Proudest Career Moments ​32:57 Embarrassing Moments in the Workplace ​35:14 Advice to My Younger Self ​37:22 🙌 Shoutout to the KEF Team 🥳 ​37:51 Closing Remarks and Thank You ​38:09 Episode Outro How to Connect: Olga Pogoda & KEF Robotics: ​LinkedIn [linkedin.com/in/olgapogoda] ​KEF Robotics [https://www.kefrobotics.com/] Startup Anthology [startupanthology.com]: LinkedIn [linkedin.com/company/startup-anthology-llc] ​Instagram [@startupanthology] ​Facebook [StartupAntholo] Jeremy Willis ​LinkedIn [linkedin.com/in/jeremy-startup-anthology]
 #BrutalHonesty #MentorshipMatters #StartupCulture #GrowthMindset #NoSugarCoating #TeamDynamics #Leadership #womenintech #womeninbusiness

Welcome to Startup Anthology, where we uncover the untold stories of startup culture through candid conversations with the people shaping it. In this episode, host Jeremy Willis sits down with entrepreneur Jake Hamann, whose journey takes us from running a banquet facility in Peoria, Illinois, to pioneering innovation in the automotive space in Dallas, Texas. Jake shares his fascinating story of navigating the startup world—from starting a banquet facility to launching Autix, a platform transforming how we track and value specialty modified vehicles. Learn how Jake’s experiences in startups, economic development, and the Dallas-Fort Worth ecosystem have shaped his entrepreneurial mindset and passion for building communities. 💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: • Jake’s journey into entrepreneurship and his early ventures. • The story behind Autix and how it’s revolutionizing the automotive space. • Insights on building regional startup ecosystems in North Texas. • The importance of mentorship and culture fit in startups. • Jake’s candid thoughts on the intersection of mental health and entrepreneurship. 🔑 Key Takeaways for Aspiring Entrepreneurs: • How to overcome challenges when transitioning from services-based to product-based businesses. • The power of mentorship and building a strong advisory board. • Why culture fit is just as important as skill fit when building a team. • Jake’s tips for staying resilient in the face of failure and disruption. 00:00 From Banquets to Startups: The Journey of Jake Hamann 00:23 Episode Intro 01:11 Meet Jake Hamann: Background and Journey 01:18 Jake's Journey to Dallas 02:37 First Entrepreneurial Venture 03:47 The Appeal of Entrepreneurship 04:13 Working in a Startup vs. Being an Entrepreneur 05:22 The Birth of Autix 08:28 Challenges and Opportunities in Dallas 11:07 Regional Ecosystem and Future Plans 11:16 Building a Regional Ecosystem 13:55 Join the Startup Anthology Community 14:32 Defining Moments and Achievements 16:37 Transitioning from Services to Product Business 16:42 Eye-Opening Startup Lessons 17:42 Identifying Target Markets and Strategies 19:29 Building a Advisory Board 21:41 Mentorship 24:28 Mental Health and Entrepreneurship 28:22 Establishing Company Values and Culture 31:51 Conclusion and Personal Reflections 32:33 Startup Anthology Outro 🎧 Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and inspiration. ✨ Get Inspired, Stay Connected: • Visit us at https://startupanthology.com/ for exclusive merch and to join the community. • Follow us on https://www.instagram.com/startupanthology/, https://www.facebook.com/StartupAntholo/, https://www.linkedin.com/company/startup-anthology-llc/, and https://x.com/StartupAntholo for updates and more startup insights. 📌 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to Startup Anthology on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us grow! 🌟 👉 Have a startup story to share? Let us know at https://startupanthology.com/ and you could be featured on an upcoming episode! #StartupCulture #Entrepreneurship #StartupJourney #JakeHamann #DFWStartups #Podcast

In this episode of the Startup Anthology, I had the pleasure of hosting Jay Margalus, a multifaceted expert and professor at Washington and Lee University. We delved into Jay's diverse career, spanning nonprofit maker spaces, video game development, and mid-stage startups like MapR. Jay shared invaluable insights on the stark contrasts between the fast-paced, collaborative startup environment and the more independent, slower-paced world of academia. We discussed the critical role of mentorship, the importance of aligning with a company's mission, and strategies for preventing burnout. This episode offers profound lessons for navigating both startup and academic landscapes. Topics Jay Margolis' background and expertise in entrepreneurship and academia Jay's experiences in the startup world and academia Challenges and lessons learned in the startup world Influence of the Chicagoland area on startups Transition from early-stage to mid-stage startup Differences between working in academia and at a startup Importance of mentorship and finding a company with a mission that aligns with values Strategies for maintaining mental and physical well-being in high-pressure environments Gratitude for the opportunity to discuss experiences and lessons Timestamps: Episode Introduction (00:00:00) Introduction to Guest (00:00:42) Jay's Background and Early Career (00:01:13) Transition to Academia (00:02:55) Startup Experience (00:04:11) Networking and Relationship-based Approach (00:05:13) Addiction to Startup Culture (00:07:28) Midwest Startup Influence (00:08:59) Challenges of Hard Tech Startups (00:11:13) Lessons Learned in Mid-stage Startups (00:14:00) Networking and Post-Startup Connections (00:17:12) Culture Change: Startup vs. Academia (00:18:38) Working in Academia (00:18:47) Startup Mindset (00:20:32) Navigating Diplomacy (00:21:20) Mentorship Importance (00:30:17) Preventing Burnout (00:35:59) Advice to Younger Self (00:37:27) The importance of mentorship (00:37:40) Belief in the company's mission (00:38:21) Reflection and lessons learned (00:39:25) Seeking help to solve problems (00:40:41) Keywords: Startup Anthology, Jeremy Willis, Jay Margolis, startup employees, startup culture, challenges, lessons learned, mentorship, academia, hard tech startups, mid-stage startup, organizational structure, networking, collaboration, mentorship, work-life balance, burnout prevention, professional development, mission-driven company, support and resources.

Introduction to the show!

This week, I'm talking with James Huizar. We discuss his career journey through visual art, non-profits, and startups.  James, an accomplished visual artist, recently participated in Flat Stock 92 at South by Southwest this year. Listen as we discuss his background in studio art from the University of Texas at Austin, his professional growth through various roles, including stints at the Mexicarte Museum here in Austin and the Douseum in San Antonio, TX, and his pivot to working at a startup.  We talk about the differences between workplace cultures, explore his personal challenges and learning experiences, examine the evolution of his art, and discuss how he successfully balances his passion projects with his other professional obligations. To view James’ portfolio, visit his website at www.jameshuizar.com and follow him on Instagram @jameshuizar. Startup Anthology now has merch! Check out our t-shirts, hoodies, and trucker hats in the merch section of our website. (⁠https://startupanthology.com/merch⁠)