
Startup Anthology
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.
From navigating the chaotic early days to building thriving teams, each episode offers insights, lessons, and inspiration for anyone in the startup ecosystem. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, aspiring employee, or simply curious about startup life, tune in to uncover what it truly means to thrive in a startup.
Latest episodes
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Jun 30, 2025 • 56min
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.
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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
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Jun 18, 2025 • 44min
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.
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May 19, 2025 • 29min
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.

Jan 14, 2025 • 2min
🎥 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

Jan 14, 2025 • 3min
🎥 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

Jan 7, 2025 • 1h 8min
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

Dec 31, 2024 • 1min
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

Dec 24, 2024 • 57min
From Netflix to Neulight: How Jose Moreno is Revolutionizing EdTech
Jose Moreno, a former Netflix engineer and the founder of Neulight, shares his journey from tech giant to ed-tech innovator. He reveals the mission behind Neulight to enhance education using AI-driven support systems. The challenges of educator overwhelm and student-to-teacher ratios are discussed, along with innovative solutions through the MTSS framework. Jose emphasizes the importance of persistence in startup success and overcoming imposter syndrome. His insights not only inspire entrepreneurs but also highlight the transformative power of technology in education.

Dec 17, 2024 • 4min
🎬 Startup Anthology Highlight Reel: The Struggle is REAL 🚀
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

Dec 10, 2024 • 36sec
Startup Anthology: Shared Challenges and Validation
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