Startup Anthology

🌟 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.

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)

This week, I will be having a conversation with Connor Nomura and his partner, Maria Salmeron.Connor and Maria met while working at the same startup in Austin, TX. Since then, Maria has started her own business, Riveter Construction, and Connor moved into a role at a second startup, staying there for over four years.Together, they bring a unique perspective and story to Startup Anthology. You’ll hear how they have navigated the rewarding yet stressful and ever-changing startup life. They’ll share their personal experiences, both highs and lows.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)

In this episode of Startup Anthology, the podcast, I’ll speak with Paul Austin.  Paul is originally from Cleveland Heights, OH, and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science from The University of Texas in Austin, TX. Join me on a journey through Paul's 30-year tech career. We will reflect on his time as a former employee of National Instruments and explore various aspects of his career, such as developing testing and data acquisition software, partnering with Lego, and creating educational robotic systems. Along the way, we will discover how Paul emphasizes the importance of learning, taking risks, and nurturing a supportive company culture. I hope you enjoy the episode.

In this episode of Startup Anthology, the podcast, I’ll speak with Sean Peterson. Sean is originally from Davenport, IA, and holds a Bachelor of Science in Electronics Engineering Technology from Hamilton Technical College.Join me as we explore Sean's startup journey from Iowa to Texas. Our conversation covers the challenges of working in start-ups, transitioning between established companies and start-ups, and the critical role of mentorship. We also discuss moving from an individual contributor to a management role and becoming a co-founder of his own business.

In this episode of Startup Anthology, the podcast, I’ll speak with Ehren Coker. Ehren is originally from Corpus Christi, Texas. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Advertising from The University of Texas Austin, Texas.Ehren has worked at three different startups, one of which he co-founded and the other two as an employee. He has held positions such as Director of Web Design and Development, Senior Software Engineer, and other senior development roles. He currently resides in Austin, TX, with his wife and three children. This episode will delve into Ehren's journey through startup life, the valuable lessons he has learned along the way, and his personal story

In this episode of Startup Anthology, the podcast, I’ll be speaking with Justin McCabe. Justin is originally from Rockwall, Texas, a small town near Dallas. He holds a Bachelor's in Organizational Communication and Leadership from St. Edwards University in Austin, Texas. Justin is a Marine who served on Active Duty for 4 years and in the Reserves for 10 years. After coming off Active Duty in 2012, Justin moved to Austin and worked as a security guard while he completed his degree.  This episode will discuss our backgrounds, Justin’s journey from military to startup life, team dynamics, leadership styles, and conflict management.

Welcome to Startup Anthology, a podcast series that shares stories from employees and middle managers, not just the founders, at early and mid-stage startups. These stories showcase the unique experiences and pivotal roles played by employees in creating startup culture. Join me for the first-ever episode of the Startup Anthology podcast, where I will be having a conversation with my friend, mentor, and former boss, Henry Wang. Tune in to hear the stories and experiences from his 20+ year career in the startup world.

Introduction to the show!