00012. How Shaun Johnson, a Former Associate at Techstars, Built Startup Institute to Provide Immersive Education for the Innovation Economy

On today's episode of Gritty Founder, Kreig Kent talks with Shaun Johnson about how he built and grew Startup Institute. Shaun also shares some advice for people who want to work at early stage startups.

Shaun Johnson is a technologist, early adopter, and helper of people. He is the cofounder of Startup Institute, a program that provides people with the skills, mindset, and network to find a job they love, doing work that matters. His background includes serving as an associate at Techstars and consulting for Booz Allen Hamilton's Strategic Technology and Innovation practice. This, combined with his experience in athletics and acting, allows him to create a competitive and collaborative environment where intelligence and improv conquer all challenges.

Some Questions Kreig Asks Shaun:

- How many projects did you work on before you came up with the idea for Startup Institute? (5:39)

- What do you think is the single most important ingredient that a founder should have? (9:51)

- What's one thing that you agree with that most people would disagree with? (11:30)

- How did you go about getting Startup Institute off the ground and marketing it and selling it to people? (12:58)

- What was the transition like for you from being a founder of Startup Institute to the CEO? (18:19)

- Other than working for yourself, has there been another decision that has contributed to your success? (20:38)

- What does your day look like these days as an advisor and founder of such a large organization? (22:00)

- What is some advice you would give people who are looking to get jobs at startups? (23:33)

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

- About Shaun's experience and why he started Startup Institute (2:28)

- About Shaun's childhood and how he became an entrepreneur (3:57)

- About Startup Institute and how they help people prepare to become startup employees (7:31)

- How Startup Institute created a robust marketing engine (16:38)

- How Shaun manages his priorities to accomplish his goals (20:49)

- The importance of jumping in, getting started, and taking one step at a time (24:08)

Connect with Shaun Johnson:

Twitter

Personal Website

Startup Institute

Also Mentioned on This Show...

Shaun's favorite quote:

"A ship in harbor is safe, but that is not what ships are made for." ―Grace Hopper

Shaun's book recommendation:

The Art of the Start by Guy Kawasaki