From Founder at 13 to Google: Phil Santoro on Building Companies, Taking Risks & Giving Back

What does it really take to build companies — and when should you start? 

In this episode of Bearcats Mean Business, entrepreneur and Lindner alum Phil Santoro shares his journey from founding his first business at 13 to working at Google — and ultimately building and scaling companies as the co-founder of startup studio Wilbur Labs. 

Phil talks candidly about learning by doing, taking calculated risks, and why real-world experience matters more than waiting for the “perfect moment.” He also reflects on how his Lindner education complemented his entrepreneurial mindset, why he now invests in entrepreneurship education, and how giving back has become a core part of his story. 

This episode is packed with practical insights for students, aspiring founders, and anyone thinking about building a career — or a company — on their own terms.

***

Welcome to Bearcats Mean Business, the official podcast of the University of Cincinnati’s Carl H. Lindner College of Business, where inspiring career stories, honest lessons and fresh business perspectives from the people building impact in the real world come together.

***

• Follow Phil Santoro on LinkedIn.
• Learn more about Wilbur Labs.