Coffee with a Founder Podcast: Jo Phillips and Will Corbera of Payabli

13- Nov-2025

On this episode of Coffee with a Founder, Beck Bamberger welcomes Jo Phillips and Will Corbera, Co-Founders and Co-CEOs of Payabli.

You’ll hear why “running to the fire” is one of their core values, how they approach leadership in a remote world, and what motivates each personally as they navigate the ups and downs of startup life.

show notes:

00:39 - Founders’ friendship origin

06:21 - Forming the business concept

09:07 - Post-exit and new beginnings

11:50 - Shaping remote company culture

15:58 - Defining and earning trust

19:56 - Motivating emotions

Read More About The Episode:

00:39 - Founders’ friendship origin
Joe and Will recount their meeting at a Miami salsa club, a moment that sparked a lasting personal and professional partnership.

06:21 - Forming the business concept
They share how their experiences in payments and software led to the idea behind Payabli, identifying a clear market need.

09:07 - Post-exit and new beginnings
Will describes transitioning from his previous venture, aligning timing with Joe, and the initial launch of Payabli.

11:50 - Shaping remote company culture
Discussion about building a remote-first, trust-based team environment and Payabli’s focus on an entrepreneurial mindset.

15:58 - Defining and earning trust
The founders reflect on their strategies for developing trust among employees and adapting leadership styles.

19:56 - Motivating emotions
Joe and Will explain how gratitude and fear drive them to lead, innovate, and support their teams and customers.