Colin Kaepernick, NFL quarterback turned founder, talks about the challenges facing disruptors. – PiEduNews

Former NFL quarterback and civil rights activist Colin Kaepernick took the stage at TechCrunch Disrupts 2024 on Wednesday to talk about the challenges facing those trying to disrupt something both inside and outside of the tech world.

“One of the biggest challenges you’ll face when you try to sabotage something, or when you try to do something you’re passionate about and end up sabotaging something along the way, is that you’re going to run into a lot of resistance. “Kaepernick said. . “There will be difficult times. You want people you can lean on and support you during that time, and that’s what gives you resilience.”

Kaepernick is no stranger to disrupting the status quo, having made national headlines in 2016 by kneeling to protest racial injustice. The former NFL star said he faced a lot of resistance, but also felt committed to creating a better, more equitable future.

“Doing that and seeing such a strong response really gives you perspective and insight,” Kaepernick said. “We have a long way to go. But another thing I learned from that time was that there were many people who wanted to go that far with you, and I think that was the beautiful thing that came out when there was resistance. .Also, a lot of organizing took place.”

Having written thousands of stories about himself, he now wants to help creators take control of their own stories with Rumi. The startup aims to empower creators by helping them create and publish stories and content independently.

For entrepreneurs looking to innovate and explore their passions, Kaepernick offered some advice.

“Do you do your homework and know why you do what you do?” he said. “And number two, once you know that, pursue it passionately, pursue it with everything you’ve got, and bring people with you. I wouldn’t be sitting here today, and none of you would have known me at all without the many people who have helped me along the way. Everyone, from your wife to your family, friends, teammates, and coaches. Some of the investors and advisors I met along the way. So keep those people with you. Because it makes us sustainable in the long term.”