Startup Therapy
The "No BS" version of how startups are really built, taught by actual startup Founders who have lived through all of it. Hosts Wil Schroter and Ryan Rutan talk candidly about the intense struggles Founders face both personally and professionally as they try to turn their idea into something that will change the world.
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Are startups the future of employment?
<p>What will AI do to everything? In this episode, we explore how AI is set to create a surge in new startups, reshaping employment as we know it. As jobs get displaced, the concept of big employment shifts, giving rise to smaller, more agile companies using AI tools. Drawing parallels with past technological revolutions, we highlight the opportunities that lower costs and new market demands present for founders. We discuss the transformation in various sectors, from customer service to content creation, and emphasize how AI can democratize entrepreneurship globally. Finally, we delve into the exciting potential for startup growth...
The Founder Hard Reset
<p>Ever felt like vacations just aren't cutting it when it comes to startup burnout? In this episode, Ryan Rutan and Will Schroter dive deep into why burnout is inevitable for founders and how quick fixes like vacations often fail to address the root of the issue. They explore how to truly recover and maintain that all-important spark in your work. Learn why it's crucial to inventory what drains and fuels your energy, and how making meaningful changes—not just taking time off—can lead to sustainable recovery. Real-life examples and practical advice make this a must-listen for any founder feel...
Is there a line between Founder optimism and delusion?
<p>Can founders turn delusion into success? In this episode, Ryan and Will discuss the essential role of optimism in startups. Drawing parallels between founders and firefighters, the duo explores how belief against all odds drives entrepreneurs forward. They explain how maintaining optimism is not just about having a positive outlook but about creating momentum from minor wins and leveraging chaos as an opportunity. The hosts also address the fine line between optimism and dishonesty, emphasizing the importance of an 'educated wish.' Whether you're battling to raise funds or struggling to maintain morale, this episode delves into why a...
Prioritize Productivity Over Popularity
<p>Ever find yourself caught in the trap of confusing visibility with progress? In this episode, we'll delve into why seeking attention can often feel like momentum but doesn't necessarily translate to business traction. Will Schroter shares a cautionary tale from his own experience, revealing how his focus on brand-building and networking kept him from truly building his company. We explore the fine line between personal branding and productivity, and why many founders need to prioritize the latter to achieve real success. It's a reminder that until your product and business are fully developed, every external interaction could be costing...
Better is Better than Bigger
<p>Is getting bigger always better for startups? This episode dives into the hidden costs of scaling up and how growth can sometimes make a company worse, not better. Ryan and Will discuss the trade-offs between size and quality, using examples like Google and PayPal. They explore how rapid growth can diminish company culture, slow down decision-making, and introduce inefficiencies. The conversation also covers personal experiences in startup growth, emphasizing the importance of optimizing for better rather than just bigger. Whether it's adding more staff or raising capital, they advocate for making decisions that enhance company quality and founder life...
Founder Authenticity: Use with Caution
<p>Ever wonder if being your authentic self at work might sometimes do more harm than good? The delicate balance of authenticity and diplomacy in leadership. From discussing the rare contexts where pure honesty works, to sharing personal anecdotes about navigating the consequences of unfiltered truth, this episode unpacks how transparency can impact your team, brand, and personal relationships. Find out why being your true self might only be great advice 6% of the time and how effective communication can save you from unintended fallout.</p><p>Resources:<br>Startup Therapy Podcast<br>https://www.startups.com/community/startup-therapy<br>Website<...
Founders, Embrace Your Flaws
<p>Are you convinced that you need to fix all your flaws as a founder? In this episode, we explore why that's not necessarily true. Ryan and Will dive deep into the idea that both startups and their founders are loaded with problems, some of which aren't really 'problems' at all but hidden superpowers. From obsessive tendencies to ADHD, they discuss how to harness these traits for success rather than trying to fix them. Drawing from personal experiences and industry insights, they touch on the influence of pharmaceutical marketing, the role of social media in shaping perceptions, and the importance...
Is Remote Culture, Actually Culture?
<p>Have you ever wondered if remote work is better than being in the office? Ryan and Will dive into their experiences and how their work culture has evolved over 20 years. They discuss the pros and cons of remote work, the importance of autonomy, and how remote setups have stripped away some of the overhead, revealing who truly thrives in this environment. They also explore whether it's possible to create a strong company culture remotely and how the shift has amplified the best and worst in employees. Tune in as they break down their journey from being die-hard office goers...
Can I Hand Off My Startup?
<p>Ever dreamt of handing off your startup to a killer operator and sipping margaritas while the money keeps rolling in? It sounds perfect, but reality often has other plans. In this episode, we break down why passing on the reins isn't as smooth as it seems—from the slow degradation of everyday tasks to the irreplaceable instinct and urgency a founder brings. Discover why certain roles and tasks can be handed off successfully while others, like maintaining culture and strategic vision, often falter without the founder's unique touch. Tune in for practical advice on what you can actually hand of...
Did I Just Get Promoted or Fired?
<p>Ever wonder what happens when a founder gets 'promoted' out of the CEO role? Ryan and Will dive into the tricky terrain of founder transitions, exploring how it feels to be nudged into roles like Chief Vision Officer or Chairman—positions that often come when a new CEO is brought in. They discuss the emotions involved, the motivations of investors, and the strategies for turning this awkward moment into an opportunity. Whether you're in the thick of this situation or just want to be prepared, this episode provides valuable insights on maintaining dignity, negotiating effectively, and leveraging a graceful ex...
