Are you secretly wondering if you have what it takes to survive your first real business challenge... or if you’ll fumble and flame out like everyone fears? This roundtable episode brings together the boldest voices from the College Works Painting executive team as they pull back the curtain on launching businesses in your 20s, conquering the fear of failure, and learning to own your setbacks (and your victories). You’ll hear real stories of panic, poor decisions, painful learning, and turning chaos into confidence from being terrified of sales, to losing all your employees at a backyard BBQ, to thriving despite every reason not to. If you want battle-tested strategies and truth bombs that rise above cliches, tune in now. Step past the self-doubt and excuses. Get the exclusive mindset secrets, hard-won tactics, and support you can’t find anywhere else... especially when the only thing between you and success is the courage to keep moving. Skip it, and risk making the same painful mistakes without the blueprint to win. This episode delivers candid wisdom forged in the fire, only from leaders who’ve walked it for real. Listen now! Timestamped Highlights00:33 – The surprising truth every new founder ignores (but pays for) 06:39 – The one assessment that saves years of painful missteps 09:59 – When fear of failure nearly stopped them cold and what flipped the script 13:55 – The brutal lesson of losing your entire team at once 19:44 – The painful production disaster that became a turning point 26:25 – The costly mistake every first-time entrepreneur makes and how to fix it 34:07 – The strategy that tripled sales and crushed self-doubt 41:32 – The one mindset shift you need to break through your ceiling About The Guest Sean Phelps, President at College Works Painting, is a leadership-minded entrepreneur who once believed business ownership was only possible in mid-life. Instead, he dove in early, learning to blend hard work with effective organization and team leadership. Sean’s transformation came from realizing leadership is less about personal output and more about enabling others to succeed. He stands out for his ability to assess failures honestly, refine systems, and mentor others on their journey to excellence. 🔗 LinkedIn Jack Kratcha, President at College Works Painting, is proof that you don’t need decades of experience to make an impact in business. Jack began his academic journey studying actuarial science and crunching numbers before pivoting into entrepreneurship, drawn by the opportunity to build something real and lasting. He credits his success to “going all in” channeling his energy into his business and leveraging every learning moment. Jack stands out for his resilience, willingness to take risks, and his ability to keep a level head amid setbacks. 🔗 LinkedIn Brett Apel, Vice President at College Works Painting, is an accomplished young leader with a background shaped by hard work, adaptability, and a deep desire to learn from every challenge. Growing up with a tax accountant father, Brett first considered a traditional business path, but quickly discovered his passion for sales, leadership, and entrepreneurship. He’s known for his willingness to ask questions, leverage networks, and pivot quickly transforming early failures into later success. Brett’s journey showcases how embracing discomfort and seeking mentorship can skyrocket growth. 🔗 LinkedIn Tyler McCullough, Vice President at College Works Painting, approaches every venture with analytical rigor and a commitment to tracking results. Originally set on becoming an engineer, he shifted into business and leadership, moving from a science and math background into the world of entrepreneurship. Tyler learned the power of ownership taking responsibility for both failures and successes and developed a knack for rapid self-improvement through self-reflection and data-driven action. He exemplifies how changing directions and mindsets leads to unexpected achievement. 🔗 LinkedIn Kory Finley, Vice President at College Works Painting, grew up immersed in entrepreneurship from running a cattle business with his brothers in Colby, Kansas, to thriving in fast-paced business environments. Kory brings a pragmatic, coachable spirit to every challenge, never shying away from hard lessons or feedback. He’s motivated by self-reliance, a curiosity about what makes businesses work, and a preference for hands-on leadership. Kory’s drive comes from a desire to continuously learn, grow, and elevate those around him. 🔗 LinkedIn Tyler Schuster, Vice President at College Works Painting, is a former collegiate quarterback who translated the discipline and teamwork of college football into entrepreneurial leadership. With a degree in business administration and a focus on sales and management, Tyler’s journey reflects adaptability and self-belief. Despite uncertainty about his long-term goals at first, he soon discovered a love for real estate development and business-building. Tyler’s story illustrates the importance of persistence, self-confidence, and embracing discomfort to fuel a career of impact. 🔗 LinkedIn Mentioned ResourcesUniversity of Wisconsin-MadisonGrand Valley State UniversityUniversity of Sioux FallsStrengthsFinderDISC personality assessmentThomas Edison (as a frame for failing forward) Important LinksGrow, do great work, and lead the way: National Services Group (NSG)Join our Student Professional Program: Internship ApplicationConnect with Matt on LinkedInWatch full interviews on YouTube The Edge of Excellence is an original podcast hosted by Matthew Stewart. Brought to you by College Works. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.
