His startup, CounterFind, is tackling the $4 billion problem of counterfeit merchandise and is the leading “online police” company that shuts down fake sport and entertainment merchandise ads and product listings in real time. Currently, the platform monitors some major online sites that have millions of users for any illegal activity and alerts the brands. They hope to become a household name and launch more verticals (like beauty and luxury brands) in the coming years. At Techstars Startup Week Dallas powered by Chase for Business, Darren, a three-time Super Bowl champion, five-time Pro Bowl selection, ESPN analyst, and founder of CounterFind, offered his advice to a room filled with small business owners about overcoming challenges and surrounding yourself with good people to keep going.
Your Team Will Keep You Going
Launching a startup has been an eye-opening experience for Woodson. But what keeps him going is his team and his competitive spirit.
Find People Who Hold You Accountable
From the time he was little and playing football, Woodson said that one of the factors that helped him become successful was surrounding himself with family and team members who keep him accountable for his actions and performance.
Take Care of Your Relationships
Whether it’s customers or vendors, one of CounterFind’s core values is building relationships. CounterFind has received an investment from Blue Star Innovation Partners. Woodson attributes their positive relationship to helping them power through challenges.
You’re Going to Take Some Ls
No one likes losing. But in the business world, you’re not always going to score a touchdown. It comes down to how you overcome hurdles.
Entrepreneurship Is a Mental Long Game
Building a business is a long game, and you have to find ways to nurture the mental stamina to deal with the day-to-day fluctuations. “Some of the weaknesses we have to figure out [and] get better. And it never stops, you’re never going to be perfect in this business. [But it’s] overcoming these challenges, that’s the best part of this business.” Read more inspirational interviews on TechCo This article is part of a Techstars Startup Week content series brought to you by CHASE for BUSINESS. Techstars Startup Week is celebration of entrepreneurs in cities around the globe. CHASE for BUSINESS is everything a business needs in one place, from expert advice to valuable products and services. Find business news, stories, insights and expert tips all in one place at Chase.com/forbusiness. Read the rest of our Startup Week series on TechCo.
