Startup Therapy
Episodes
Founders Need Finish Lines
06 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Ever feel like you hit a milestone in your startup and immediately get handed the next problem? The episode explores why startup work rarely delivers ...
What Should My Expectations Be?
23 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Ever feel like you’re working nonstop and still falling behind? The discussion argues founder happiness and decision-making improve fastest by recal...
What Actually Happens When A Founder Runs Out of Gas?
02 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
What do you think really happens if you burn out and step away for a minute? The conversation breaks down how founders often imagine an apocalyptic ch...
The Value of Distraction
23 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
What if the thing that looks like a distraction is actually the move that saves your startup? This episode breaks down why the “stay focused at all ...
Master Failure
16 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
What if failure isn’t something to avoid, but a skill to master? This episode breaks down why startups can’t be built on certainty—new markets, ...
We Can't Predict the Future Anymore
09 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Is AI truly the game-changer for startups, or does it bring unexpected chaos? This episode dives into how AI is transforming forecasting, marketing, p...
We wanted efficiency. We got isolation.
02 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
How has the relentless pursuit of efficiency, aided by tools like remote work, Zoom, Slack, and AI, affected our human connections? In this episode, w...
Are startups the future of employment?
03 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
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 job...
The Founder Hard Reset
25 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
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 bur...
Is there a line between Founder optimism and delusion?
17 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Can founders turn delusion into success? In this episode, Ryan and Will discuss the essential role of optimism in startups. Drawing parallels between ...
Prioritize Productivity Over Popularity
07 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
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 li...
Better is Better than Bigger
27 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
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...
Founder Authenticity: Use with Caution
22 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Ever wonder if being your authentic self at work might sometimes do more harm than good? The delicate balance of authenticity and diplomacy in leaders...
Founders, Embrace Your Flaws
14 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
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 de...
Is Remote Culture, Actually Culture?
06 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
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 evo...
Can I Hand Off My Startup?
29 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
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 o...
Did I Just Get Promoted or Fired?
22 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
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, explor...
Burnout is a Treatable Injury
15 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Ever felt like burnout is inevitable in your startup journey? You're not alone. Burnout can feel like a silent co-founder, but it doesn't have to sign...
Stop Pretending You Don't Have Enough Time!
10 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Ever feel like you need more hours in the day? Turns out, you don't. In this episode, we dive deep into time management for founders, starting with a ...
Are Founders Aligned with Those Around Them?
02 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
The complexities of alignment among founders, employees, and even spouses. They debunk the notion that perfect alignment exists, emphasizing that ofte...
Will the Payout be Worth the Sacrifice?
25 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
The challenging question of whether the sacrifices made in pursuit of entrepreneurial success are ultimately worth the payoff. Will retells his person...
How Founders Blow Their Fortunes
19 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
The critical do's and don’ts after a big financial win as a startup founder. They emphasize the importance of not oversharing about your wealth, shi...
When is Enough, Enough?
11 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Ryan and will talks about a critical issue many founders face: knowing when to say 'enough is enough.' They explore the constant pursuit of growth bot...
Can Entrepreneurship Alleviate Poverty?
04 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
How entrepreneurship can transform lives and communities? Will shares his personal journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a successful entre...
Should Startups Be a Family?
28 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Startup Therapy Podcast, Ryan and Will discuss the challenges and dynamics of blending friendship and professionalism in startu...
Can Founders be Replaced by AI?
21 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Ryan and Will talk about the growing role of AI in startups. They explore how AI is automating traditional founder tasks like writing, coding, and ana...
What if we run out of goals?
30 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Startup Therapy Podcast, Ryan and Will talk about what happens when you hit all your big goals and realize there might not be a...
Founders, Reinvention IS your Constant!
23 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Will and Ryan talk about the fascinating and often overlooked journey of reinventing oneself. Will shares his diverse background, from being an ad guy...
Founder Isolation is Getting Worse
16 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Ryan and Will talk about the growing isolation that founders are feeling despite having more ways to connect. They delve into how the shift to remote ...
Forging Founder Confidence
09 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Ryan and Will discuss the journey of becoming a confident founder. Celebrating their 300th episode, they reflect on how learning to lead and building ...
Is College a Waste of Time for Founders?
02 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of The Startup Therapy Podcast, Ryan and Will discuss the true value of a college education for aspiring entrepreneurs. They explore w...
Are We Preventing Our Startup From Evolving?
26 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
The realities of evolving a startup. Ryan and Will discuss how the first idea is rarely the final solution, sharing insights on how to navigate the pi...
Building a Startup That Loves You Back
19 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Ryan and Will delve into the complexities of maintaining a healthy relationship with your startup. They discuss their personal experiences and challen...
When Our Friends Resent Our Success
12 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Ryan and Will discuss the surprising reactions founders often face when they achieve success. They explore how unexpected resentment from friends and ...
When Our Startup Outgrows Us
10 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Startup Therapy Podcast,Ryan and Will delve into the emotional journey of startup founders who feel out of place in the very co...
When Being in the 1% Feels like Failure
29 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Ryan and Will discuss the psychological challenges founders face by constantly looking ahead and rarely celebrating their achievements. They explore h...
We Need Outside Interests that Consume Us
21 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Dive into the common struggle founders face with burnout and the inability to truly relax. Ryan and Will share their personal experiences and discus...
You probably should be TERRIFIED. At least a bit..
15 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Ryan and Will discuss the prevalent fear in the market due to economic uncertainty in April 2025. They delve into how fear is a constant companion for...
Make Money First - Then Make a Product
07 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Ryan and Will discuss the common misconception that startups need funding before generating revenue. They emphasize that the actual b...
It's really HARD to REPEAT A WIN
01 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Will and Ryan discuss the dangerous mindset founders can fall into after hitting it big with their startups. They reflect on the story of Peter Chesky...
Does LOCATION matter for your startup?
24 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Ryan and Will discuss the evolution of startup location strategies. They reminisce about the bygone era when relocating to major hubs like San Francis...
Are The Sacrifices Worth It?
17 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Startup Therapy Podcast, the guys tackle the big question: was the entrepreneurial journey worth it? They discuss the sacrifice...
Are Founders Forged Over Youth?
11 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Startup Therapy Podcast, Ryan Rutan and Will Schroter discuss how childhood experiences influence the entrepreneurial journey. ...
Assets OVER Exits
03 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of Startup Therapy, Ryan Rutan and Will Schroeter challenge the startup world's focus on big exits and venture capital. They highlight...
You Only Have to Be Right Once
24 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Startup Therapy podcast, Ryan and Will chat about how startup success isn’t always a straight path. They use Mark Cuban’s s...
What Would I do Differently
03 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of The Startup Therapy, Ryan Rutan and Will Schroter explore the 'what if' scenarios that often preoccupy founders. Will shares person...
When Can I Afford to GAMBLE?
27 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Startup Therapy Podcast, Ryan Rutan and Will Schroter dive into an interesting perspective: taking risks in entrepreneurship is...
Can Founders Find Contentment?
21 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Startup Therapy Podcast, Ryan Rutan and Will Schroeter delve into the anxiety surrounding contentment in the startup ecosystem....
Why do Investors FIRE Founders?
14 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Ryan Rutan and Will Schroeter discuss the complexities and challenges faced by startup founders, particularly the frequent occurrence of founders bein...
The Burden of Unrealistic Expectations
02 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode Ryan and Will delve into the intense pressures faced by founders from investors, peers, and the startup community. They discuss how th...
How do I Stay Positive In Tough Times?
25 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Ryan and Will discuss the omnipresent challenges that come with running a startup. They delve into the perpetual 'shit storm' that founders face and s...
Are Investors Trying to Push Us a Cliff?
18 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Startup Therapy Podcast, Ryan and Will delve into the often misunderstood motivations of venture capitalists. They discuss why ...
What Previously Funded Founders Do Differently
11 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Startup Therapy Podcast, Ryan and Will discuss the daunting realities of raising capital for startups. By sharing insights and ...
Are Startups Easier for Experienced Founders?
04 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Startup Therapy Podcast, Ryan and Will debunk the myth that each startup venture becomes progressively easier with experience. ...
Who's Working for Who?
28 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Ryan Rutan and Will Schroter explore the intricate and often misunderstood relationship between founders and their startups. They tackle the question ...
Let's Get Back to Our WHY
21 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Startup Therapy Podcast, Ryan Rutan and Will Schroter explore the vital importance of maintaining a startup's foundational 'why...
How We Secretly Lose Control of Our Startups
07 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Startup Therapy Podcast, Ryan and Will discuss the complex dynamics of maintaining control in a startup. They explore the misco...
Should Kids Follow in our Founder Footsteps?
16 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Startup Therapy Podcast, Ryan and Will explore the complexities of encouraging their children to become entrepreneurs. With nea...
The Evolution of Entry Level Workers
10 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Startup Therapy Podcast, hosts Ryan Rutan and Will Schroter discuss the evolving landscape of entry-level hiring for startups. ...
Assume Everyone Will Leave in Year One
02 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Startup Therapy Podcast, Ryan and Will discuss the challenges of managing early-stage startup teams, particularly the high like...
Was Mortgaging My Life Worth it?
26 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Startup Therapy Podcast, hosts Ryan Rutan and Will Schroter delve into the sacrifices that come with building startup companies...
What's my Startup Worth in an Acquisition?
19 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Startup Therapy Podcast, Ryan Rutan and Startups.com founder Will Schroter discuss the unrealistic expectations that many start...
Is my AMBITION my ENEMY?
13 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Startup Therapy Podcast, Ryan Rutan and Will Schroter discuss the often overlooked costs of ambition in the startup world. They...
Are Startups in a "Silent Recession"?
05 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode we discuss the current state of the startup ecosystem, which they describe as a 'silent recession.' Despite economic indicators sugges...
Do Founders Deserve Their Profit?
29 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Startup Therapy Podcast, Ryan Rutan and Will Schroeder navigate the complexities founders face regarding success and societal s...
The Utter STUPIDITY of "Risking it All"
22 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode we discuss the myth of the 'bet it all' startup mentality. They highlight the importance of downside risk planning and how successful ...
Why Most Founders Don't Get Rich
15 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Startup Therapy Podcast, we discuss the common struggles of making money in the startup world. They explore the 'noble' but fla...
Investors will be Obsolete, The End of Venture Capital
08 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we discuss the potential obsolescence of venture capital due to advancements in AI technology. We explore how reduced startup costs a...
Why is a Founder so HARD to replace?
01 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
The Irreplaceable Founder. Ryan Rutan and Will Schroter discuss the irreplaceable role of founders in startups. They explore why removing a founder of...
We Can't Grow by Saying "No"
24 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Startup Therapy Podcast, Ryan Rutan (CMO at Startups.com) and Wil Schroter (CEO at Startups.com) discuss the importance of sayi...
This is WHY More Money Means MORE Problems
17 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Why sometimes, less is more? Ryan Rutan and Will Schroeder discuss the misconception that reaching revenue milestones in startups will solve all probl...
Committees are Where Progress Goes to Die
10 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Startup Therapy Podcast, we discuss the inefficiencies and dangers of making decisions by committee. Why committees often fail ...
Giving Up Equity? Press Pause First
03 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Startup Therapy Podcast, we talk about equity distribution in startups. Explore the psychological traps of seeking validation, ...
Why Do 99% of Founders Suck at Asking for Help?
27 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this insightful episode of the Startup Therapy Podcast, Ryan Rutan and Wil Schroter discuss the importance of asking questions as a startup founder...
The Value of Actually Getting Paid (Avoid This Big Danger)
20 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Startup Therapy Podcast, Ryan Rutan and Wil Schroter, discuss the misconception that startup founders are incredibly wealthy on...
Will Investors Bail Me Out? Brutal Truth About Startup Investments
13 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Startup Therapy Podcast, hosts Ryan Rutan and Wil Schroter talk about sacrifices founders make — accumulating debt and forego...
Is the problem the Player or the Coach? Team Building Hacks
06 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Startup Therapy Podcast, hosts Ryan Rutan and Wil Schroter delve into evaluating startup team and management performance. Find ...
Do people really want me to succeed? Founders vs World
29 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Startup Therapy Podcast, hosts Ryan Rutan and Wil Schroter explore the harsh reality of seeking support as a founder. Surprisin...
You only THINK you work HARD — The Hard Work Illusion
22 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Startup Therapy podcast, hosts Ryan Rutan and Wil Schroter talk about the common misconception around 'working hard' within sta...
SMALL is the New Big - Embracing Efficiency in the Age of AI
15 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Startup Therapy Podcast, hosts Ryan Rutan and Wil Schroter discuss the evolution of startups from the emphasis on scaling and h...
This is BOOTSTRAPPED - 3 Strategies to Build Your Startup Without Funding
18 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the startup therapy podcast, Ryan Rutan and Wil Schroter delve into bootstrapping a startup. They address common misconceptions abo...
The Spectrum of Investor Advice
11 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Startup Therapy Podcast, Ryan Rutan and Wil Schroter discuss the complexities of handling feedback from investors, emphasizing ...
$10K Per Month isn't Just Revenue. It's Life Support
04 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan talks about why earning atleast $10,000 per month is one of the most important milestones in your sta...
Why Do VCs Keep Giving "failed" Founders Money?
26 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan talks about why investors choose to invest on “failed” founders. They debunk the myth that failur...
If It Makes Money, It Makes Sense
19 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan talks about the importance of generating revenue and being willing to do whatever it takes to move a ...
The Hidden Treasure of Failed Startups
12 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan talks about the hidden treasure of failed startups. From redefining valuation to creative acquisiti...
My Competitors Just Raised Funds - Am I Screwed?
05 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan talks about what happens if your competitor got funded. Join as they discuss the common concern of co...
Can Having Zero Experience Be a Huge Asset?
29 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan explore whether lacking prior experience can be a game-changer for startup founders. Having zero expe...
What If I Build a Startup That Just Makes Money?
22 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan talks about whether a founder should focus on building a startup that just makes money. Ever thought ...
How to Get Rockstar Startup Advisors
15 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss how you can get rockstar advisors for your startup. Discover the common mistakes people make ...
Job vs Startup - What Should I Do?
08 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss whether you should get a steady paycheck or start your own startup. Choosing between a regula...
Founders Need a Steady Hand in the Storm
04 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss the idea of managing chaos as a founder. Keeping a startup on track is like steering a ship t...
So You Think You Need a Co-Founder?
20 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss the idea of having a co-founder. A co-founder can offer numerous benefits for a business. It ...
Can I Scale My Impact Without Scaling My Team?
13 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss the concept of scaling without adding or hiring more people. Making a significant impact does...
Grind or Guilt, the Founder Dilemma
06 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss about the grind and guilt dilemma of founders. Founders often struggle with the never-ending ...
Are Founders Driven by Fear or Greed?
30 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss whether founders are driven by fear or greed. In the world of startups, there's a question th...
What if I'm Building the Wrong Product?
23 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss how you as a founder will know if you’re building the right or wrong product. Have you ever...
How Startups Actually Get Bought
16 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss how startups are actually bought and sold. The process of buying and selling startups can be ...
Am I Quitting My Startup, Or Letting Go?
09 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss when to quit or let go of your startup. If your startup has struggled for an extended period ...
How long do we ACTUALLY have?
02 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In today's Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan discuss the challenge of maintaining a long-term vision in the fast-paced world of startups. It's eas...