Startup Careers Coaching, Events, and Resources

I’ve spent 8+ years working across 7+ startups after beginning my career in traditional corporate roles supporting Fortune 500 companies. I intentionally moved into startups to do more tangible, high-impact work and understand firsthand the challenges of transitioning into fast-moving, unstructured environments. I’ve operated across early-stage and high-growth companies and bring a practical operator’s lens to coaching. I've provided coaching on the below topics: • Working cross-functionally in highly matrixed organizations to drive decisions without clear structure • Operating effectively in companies with under 10 employees, ~200 employees, and 1,000+ employees • Hiring, building, and scaling teams as companies grow • Translating corporate experience into startup-ready impact • Helping candidates identify areas of opportunity in a business/team and add value immediately

Welcome! With over 20 years of experience in leadership roles across top companies like Flowcode and Bluecore, I bring a wealth of knowledge in executive coaching and startup career development. As the Founder of Surko Coaching, I specialize in helping high-potential leaders transition from operational roles to boardroom command, enhancing their executive presence and strategic decision-making skills. My approach is tailored to address self-limiting beliefs and build resilience, ensuring my clients are equipped to thrive in dynamic startup environments. Whether you're looking to refine your leadership style or navigate complex organizational changes, I'm here to guide you every step of the way. Let's connect and chart your path to success!

Hey! I’m Michael, a founder and operator with a track record of building and scaling brands that reach over 25 million people monthly. I’m the Co-Founder and CEO of Famous Media Group, the parent company of AsianFeed, one of the largest Asian-centric digital media brands in the world. Through this work, I’ve partnered with organizations including Netflix, Disney, NBC, Instagram, Sony Pictures, the White House, and the U.S. State Department, and have built teams, hired across functions, and worked closely with operators at every stage of growth. My work has earned recognition on Forbes 30 Under 30 and Fast Company’s World Changing Ideas, and I’ve been featured in outlets including CNN and Vox. After years of building and scaling a company, I earned my MBA from The Wharton School, adding a strong strategic and business lens to my hands-on operating experience. I’ve seen firsthand how startup careers evolve, from early hires wearing many hats to more structured roles as companies scale, and I understand how to position yourself for growth in fast-moving, ambiguous environments. I work with people who want to break into startups, navigate career transitions within the startup ecosystem, or grow into more senior roles as their companies scale. If you’re looking to build a startup career with clarity, confidence, and long-term upside, I’d love to help you think through your next move.

Welcome to my profile! With over 23 years of experience as an entrepreneur, business owner, and college professor, I specialize in guiding aspiring entrepreneurs and business professionals through the intricacies of startup careers. As the Co-Founder of Buy-Scale-Sell and Founder of Crown Consulting, I've successfully led clients in buying, scaling, and preparing for business exits, helping them create legacies they can be proud of. My hands-on experience includes leading the successful exits of Griffco Graphic Solutions and Queen of Wraps, where I implemented innovative marketing strategies and strategic partnerships to drive growth. Whether you're looking to unlock off-market opportunities, accelerate growth, or optimize exit strategies, I'm here to empower you to think boldly and achieve your dreams. Let's connect and take your startup career to the next level!