Episode 231 - The Heart Behind His Hustle with Justin Forsett
Jan 3, 2023
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Justin Forsett, a former NFL running back turned entrepreneur, shares his inspiring journey of co-founding HustleClean, a sanitary wipe company for athletes. He discusses the challenges Black entrepreneurs face and how their innovation gained traction on platforms like Shark Tank. Justin emphasizes the importance of faith in overcoming setbacks and navigating partnerships. He also highlights the company’s commitment to social responsibility through sports scholarships for underserved youth, blending personal growth with community impact.
Justin Forsett leveraged his NFL experience to create HustleClean, emphasizing resilience and discipline in entrepreneurship amidst challenges as a Black entrepreneur.
His faith-driven approach not only guides his personal and professional life but also encourages social responsibility through initiatives like a sports scholarship program for underserved youth.
Deep dives
Justin Forsett's Journey from NFL to Entrepreneurship
Justin Forsett, a former NFL running back, leveraged his athletic career into an entrepreneurial endeavor, demonstrating resilience and the importance of faith. After playing for multiple teams, including the Baltimore Ravens, he co-founded Hustle Clean, a personal care brand aimed at aiding athletes with on-the-go hygiene solutions. His journey included the creation of the shower pill, a product that gained traction on platforms like Shark Tank. Justin emphasizes that his experiences in football taught him perseverance and discipline, which have been crucial in navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship.
The Importance of Faith and Personal Identity
In his life and career, Justin underscores the significance of sustaining one's identity rooted in faith rather than in achievements or material success. He shares a pivotal moment from his youth where he found solace in scripture during challenging times, which reinforced his belief that God has a plan for him. This faith-oriented perspective helps Justin navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, reminding him that both success and setbacks are part of a divine purpose. He advocates for staying true to one's values and seeking guidance from faith as a foundation for personal and professional growth.
Lessons Learned Through Adversity
Throughout his life and career, Justin encountered numerous adversities that shaped his character and work ethic. From facing rejection in the NFL to the challenges of starting a business as a black entrepreneur, he emphasizes that overcoming hardship is integral to any journey. He highlights the necessity of discipline and preparation in both sports and business, pointing out that success does not come easily but is often the result of hard work and resilience. Justin believes that enduring difficulties prepares individuals for future opportunities and fosters personal growth.
Community Engagement and Giving Back
Justin's entrepreneurial journey goes beyond business; it includes a commitment to giving back to underserved communities through initiatives like a sports scholarship program. He and his co-founders are dedicated to supporting youth in sports while also responding to crises such as the Flint water crisis and Hurricane Harvey. Through Hustle Clean, they aim to embody a mission-driven approach to entrepreneurship, addressing not only product needs but also community welfare. Justin's journey highlights the vital role of social responsibility in corporate success and personal fulfillment.
Alongside University of California-Berkeley teammates, former NFL running back and Baltimore Ravens Pro Bowler Justin Forsett created a sanitary wipe to help athletes on the go stay hygienic.
Despite the challenges they faced as Black entrepreneurs, Justin and his co-founders encountered immense success, being featured on Shark Tank, Fox, CBS, and NBC, and landing partnerships with Target, Crunch Fitness, and Pharmaca.
After rebranding to HustleClean, the founders devoted their company to doing more than selling products. They established a sports scholarship program to provide opportunities for underserved youth to play sports. Justin and his company also brought support and awareness to communities in need.
He joins the show to share how his faith shapes his heart and pushes his hustle.
Want more great content like this?
Don’t forget to follow the Faith Driven Entrepreneur Podcast on your favorite streaming service.
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