Spy School for Sales Teams - Bodysights

Warrior Rising : Empowering Veteran Entrepreneurs

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In the world of veteran entrepreneurship, stories of resilience, innovation, and community abound. Derik Clark MBA, SPHR , a veteran and founder of BodySights , shares his journey and insights gained through Warrior Rising, a premier nonprofit supporting veteran entrepreneurs.

Derik's experience with Warrior Rising began even before he arrived in Iowa for the program. Reflecting on his journey, Derik recalls attending pitch competitions in Utah years ago.

"I realized that if I pitch, it's gotta be something with pizzazz because I'm watching these other people," Derik explains.

His initial exposure to Warrior Rising's Warrior Academy and cohort members sparked a realization: "We actually built a good bond. We still talk to each other on a regular basis outside of that event."

For Derik, Warrior Rising provided invaluable coaching and training, culminating in pitching in front of judges and a live audience for the first time.

"The coaching and training that led up to it, the actual experience of just meeting and getting involved with not only the other competitors, but mentors and investors... it was a full-blooded American experience," he shares.

Reflecting on his military background, Derik explains how it shaped his entrepreneurial journey. "I joined the army and became a counterintelligence agent... I was able to interact and learn a little bit more about people with specific training," Derik recalls. This experience laid the foundation for Bodysights, which he describes as "spy school for sales teams."

Navigating the transition from military service to entrepreneurship, Derek emphasizes the importance of seeking help. "It's okay to ask for help... There are resources available and there are people that want to help you, but sometimes you have to ask for it," he advises.

Imposter syndrome is another challenge many veterans face when starting a business. Derek encourages embracing one's strengths and accepting that mistakes are part of the journey. "If you're perfect all the time, then you're intimidating to other people... It's more endearing actually than perfection," Derik reflects.

One of the most powerful aspects of Warrior Rising, Derek notes, is the network it provides. "Warrior Rising isn't just here's some training, let's start your business. It's here's a very powerful network that will help elevate you and push you," he says.

Regarding his business focus, Derik admits to the ongoing evolution of Bodysights. "I'd like to niche down, but it seems like the more people that I talked to... the more they say, 'But we want this too, can you alter it for us?'" Derik explains. Despite the challenge of finding a niche, Derik finds fulfillment in helping salespeople improve their interactions.

When asked about the most rewarding aspect of his work, Derik emphasizes the impact he makes. "It's hearing the feedback... I've helped someone open up their mind and consciously recognize some things that they would have otherwise ignored," he shares.

Looking ahead, Derik sees endless possibilities for Bodysights, and continues to embrace the journey of entrepreneurship with the support of Warrior Rising and its community.

In conclusion, Derik's story exemplifies the power of resilience, adaptation, and community in the journey of a veteran entrepreneur. Warrior Rising continues to be a guiding light for veterans like Derik as they navigate the path to success in business.

Learn more about Warrior Rising Here