Startup Anthology

Startup Anthology

By Jeremy WillisSociety & CultureBusinessEntrepreneurship
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Startup Anthology episodes

  • Startup Insights with Joseph Kopser: Leadership Lessons from a Military Veteran
    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
    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
    36 min
  • Who Was ICON's First Hire? The Debate Begins...
    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."
    1 hr 35 min
  • Journey to Japan: The Mission and Vision of Kostya and Bella
    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
    56 min
  • Women Veterans in the Startup World - Leadership Lessons with Johanna Wynne
    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.
    45 min
  • From West Point to Startups: Leadership Lessons from Colonel (Ret.) Jim Orbock
    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.
    30 min
  • 🎥 Reinventing Startup Pitches: More Highlights with ShitPitch & Kent Richeson 🚀

    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

    3 min
  • 🎥 Highlight Reel: Reinventing Startup Pitches with ShitPitch 🚀

    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

    3 min
  • Reinventing Startup Pitches with Kent Richeson and ShitPitch

    🎙️ 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

    1 hr 9 min
  • Highlights From Netflix to Neulight: Jose Moreno’s Journey into EdTech

    🌟 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

    2 min
  • From Netflix to Neulight: How Jose Moreno is Revolutionizing EdTech

    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: [email protected]

    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

      58 min

    About Startup Anthology

    From the publisher's feed

    Startup Anthology is the podcast where startup culture comes to life! Join host Jeremy Willis as he explores the challenges, triumphs, and untold stories of startup employees, founders, and managers.