Crusoe Gongbay was born in Rockville, Maryland to Miata and Crusoe Gongbay Sr. His parents emigrated from Liberia in the hopes of providing a better life for their son. They both worked hard to save money and eventually were able to buy green cards and move to America. After 10 years, they became citizens and had Crusoe Jr.
Crusoe was always a hardworking young man with several skills. His mother recalls that he would mend her computer, fix the plumbing, work at a pizza shop, and participate in four different sports – all while playing the clarinet!
Now 29, Crusoe has maintained his work ethic and sense of adventure. He is both an entrepreneur and athlete who played football in Germany for the past two years. He has also invested in flipping real estate and stocks, and is currently co-managing a musical artist.
Crusoe is the creator of CK Investors, a Washington, D.C.-based investment firm that provides courses on stock and cryptocurrency trading as well as real estate investing. The firm also gives credit utilization and loans to a select group of individuals, and it is interested in business ideas for investing.
Furthermore, he is also the CFO of Big Victories LLC, a company that focuses on branding, marketing, and business consulting. The company has done work with multiple businesses and entrepreneurs to help them develop a brand identity, social media presence, and marketing strategy.
They also produce the Big Victories Podcast, which features stories of triumph from people from all walks of life, including athletes, business owners, CEOs, marketing coordinators, and others. The aim is to educate and inspire listeners to achieve their own great personal accomplishments.
Crusoe Gongbay’s love for travel has taken him to over 46 countries, where he enjoys learning about different cultures. In order to balance his work and travel commitments, Crusoe schedules important tasks and prioritizes them.
He attributes much of his success to opportunities and connections that he has been fortunate enough to make and hopes to continue using his platform and resources to help those in need. He is passionate about giving back and has been an active supporter of nonprofit organizations through CK Investors.
Where did the idea for Big Victories and CK Investors come from?
Everything I’ve done as an entrepreneur was motivated by my passion for marketing and money management. I realized there was a need for more accessible, affordable education in these areas, so I decided to create CK Investors as a way to provide that. Big Victories followed suit as a way to help businesses with branding and marketing – two crucial yet often neglected elements of success.
With some help from some great connects and friends, I was able to get the businesses off the ground and running.
What does your typical day look like and how do you make it productive?
I get up early, pray and meditate to clear my thoughts, then go to the gym to maintain my health up and also to get some blood flowing around the brain. To be creative, there’s no better way than that. After dealing with anything for the day, if I’m in season then interviews or practice, and out-of-season meetings or reviewing documents to make sure companies are running smoothly.
How do you bring ideas to life?
I ask my pals and other individuals I trust for their thoughts, and then I look for someone if I don’t already have one to bring the concept into reality. If I wanted to create clothing, for example, I’d have a vision in my head but not a way to draw it so I’d inform an expert in the business. This way, I get a second opinion and also have someone to guide me along the way.
What’s one trend that excites you?
The growing inclination of a more business-oriented generation. More people nowadays want to work for themselves and start their own companies or become independent contractors. I believe that this will pay off in the long run for society as a whole, as it’ll lead to more creativity and innovation.
What is one habit of yours that makes you more productive as an entrepreneur?
I’m very assertive. I like to get things done and I’m always looking for ways to improve efficiency. This means that I’m constantly communicating with my team, setting goals and deadlines, and making sure that everyone is on the same page.
I think this is the best way to stay ahead of the curve because it allows me to quickly adapt to changes and pivot when needed.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Patience and perseverance will pay off. Your time will come if you just keep working.
Tell us something that’s true that almost nobody agrees with you on.
Nobody believes me when I say that I’ve never been drunk in my life because of my bubbly personality.
As an entrepreneur, what is the one thing you do over and over and recommend everyone else do?
Visit the gym and improve your health. My most innovative ideas have emerged during or after a workout. It cleanses your mind, creating space for new ideas while also promoting good health. Health is wealth; therefore, be healthy!
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business? Please explain how.
When you’re starting a company, credit utilization is critical. When you can use the banks, you don’t need to utilize your own money. I opened three to four credit cards, used the bull balance twice, and paid it off in full before my billing date. It boosted my score considerably. I was also diligent about paying all of my tiny bills on time—think cell phones, utilities, etc. When it came to my car note, I was always punctual and eventually paid it off. This looked great to banks because it showed that I could manage different types of credit responsibly and with varying limits.
What is one failure you had as an entrepreneur, and how did you overcome it?
Although I haven’t had any major flops, I would advise you to choose your business partners carefully. Some individuals may not have your best interests at heart.
What is one business idea that you’re willing to give away to our readers? (this should be an actual idea for a business, not business advice)
Create an E-commerce store and drop shipping. In today’s world, more people are going digital. More people are purchasing online than ever before, and it’s a wonderful way to earn money by collaborating with manufacturers rather than paying for inventory. Simply set up your shop, choose the products you wish to sell, and pick a name and manufacturer. There are a number of e-commerce tools available that will even build and market your entire website for you!
What is the best $100 you recently spent? What and why? (personal or professional)
I spent $100 on a variety of vitamins to keep my body functioning great. I find that when I keep my body well nourished, I’m able to think more clearly and have more energy for work. Truly, health is wealth.
What is one piece of software or a web service that helps you be productive? How do you use it?
I use Coinbase to buy, trade, and sell cryptocurrency. When buying and selling at the proper intervals, you may make a lot of money.
What is the one book that you recommend our community should read and why?
I’d suggest “Rich Dad, Poor Dad” since it discusses the need for financial literacy and how to generate money through investing. It will provide you with a business perspective from both sides of the wealth spectrum and how to overcome adversity.
What is your favorite quote?
“The Lord is my savior.”
This is my favorite quote because it reminds me that no matter what happens in life, God is always there for me. Trusting in Him has helped me overcome many challenges and find peace and happiness.
Interviews and PR by Matt Peters and Team.
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