Intro

Listen, then read!

Welcome to the First-Time Founder Circle!

For many aspiring entrepreneurs, the startup world is filled with excitement and uncertainty. Where do you begin? How do you turn an idea into something tangible? These questions inspired me to create the First-Time Founder Circle, a podcast and course designed to empower first-time founders with the tools, knowledge, and connections they need to succeed.

As a San Jose State University graduate student, I developed this project as the culmination of my academic journey. But the First-Time Founder Circle isn’t just an academic exercise—it’s a project rooted in personal experiences as an engineer, innovator, and entrepreneur.

Meet me, Max Rothe
My entrepreneurial journey began at the College of San Mateo and Skyline College, where I discovered a love for innovation. After transferring to San Jose State University in 2021, I thrived in the Silicon Valley Innovation Challenge, winning three consecutive years with different projects. One standout achievement was developing an electric vehicle (EV) conversion kit, capable of transforming a 1998 F-250 truck into an electric powerhouse. While my EV project didn’t evolve into a startup, it became a turning point for me. I realized the importance of validating ideas early and gaining hands-on experience to complement theoretical knowledge.

Beyond academics, I honed leadership skills during the pandemic as an Operations Manager for a food distribution service paid for by Facebook. Overseeing a 5,000-square-foot warehouse in Redwood City, I managed a team of 22 people and distributed 30,000 pounds of food weekly to schools, nonprofits, and senior centers. These experiences shaped my vision of empowering others to succeed in challenging environments. I am now a full-time R&D engineer at Inquis Medical, an exciting cardiovascular solutions startup in Menlo Park.

What is the First-Time Founder Circle?
The First-Time Founder Circle podcast is for anyone curious about entrepreneurship. Whether you’re an aspiring founder or just someone exploring opportunities, this series offers insights to help you navigate the startup world confidently. Each episode blends real-world stories with actionable advice, featuring guest experts who share their lessons and experiences.

From ideation to building a network, the podcast provides more than inspiration—it equips you with practical takeaways. I also incorporates elements of experiential learning, offering guidance that bridges the gap between academic concepts and real-world application.

A digital learning resource with a purpose
Launching January 20, 2025, the First-Time Founder Circle aims to turn entrepreneurial dreams into reality. Each weekly episode builds on the last, creating a roadmap to help founders take their first steps with clarity and confidence. If you’re ready to learn, connect, and grow as a first-time founder, join the journey. Subscribe to the newsletter, follow the podcast, and discover the tools you need to succeed. Together, let’s build a community where first-time founders thrive!