Carlos Sirgo is the founder of Gopher Case, which produces a unique product  that allows customers to accessorize their phone case through a unique clip feature.

How did you get started ?

I created Gopher Case early 2015 while employed with Carnival Cruise Lines. It was unfamiliar territory and a risk for me to pursue with no background or experience in the product world. Because of this, I always remained confident in my ability to learn and stayed open-minded throughout the process. Although unnerving, I ended up quitting my job in order to further pursue my goals full time and haven’t looked back since!

 What has been the most challenging moment in your career?

The most challenging chapter in my career was last year. I was still with my previous employer while attempting to plan the launch of Gopher Case. Not only was I juggling two full time jobs but was also in the midst of making family changes. Still, I always kept my goals in sight and tried never let difficulties get in the way.

 What was the most braggable moment?

I always try stay humble and never look for an opportunity to brag but if I were to choose this moment, it might have been at the launch of Gopher last year. It sunk in when I realized I created, designed, engineered and developed a new product that I was able to launch successfully, all while stating it was first to market. This only motivated and propelled me for the next chapter in Gopher.

 What would you say is your biggest weakness?

I believe my biggest weakness may be that I’m never satisfied. Although I leverage this mentality as motivation, I definitely could stop and look around at the accomplishments more often.

 And your greatest strength?

I pride myself on work ethic and the willingness to learn and adapt in all situations. The mobile industry is a forever-evolving industry and you’re always at the mercy of the big companies. This forces you to constantly remain on your toes and always be ready for change.

What was the greatest lesson you’ve learned from a mistake?

In entrepreneurship, I believe in failing forward and that “mistakes” are free lessons learned. If I were to consider a lesson learned, it was that I didn’t search for mentorship earlier on in Gopher. I believe that mentorships are not only extremely helpful but also resourceful and can provide much more than just advice

 What do you love most about what you do?

What I love the most about what I do is being able to talk about what I do! Any chance given, I love to explain Gopher and the story behind it. I feel as though, through exchanging my story with others, it allows a new opportunity to teach but also to learn. I love feedback from anyone and Gopher allows this exchange.

 What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

“Embrace competition” Many people are intimidated from their competitor or are even afraid to learn about the competition. Being told to embrace the rival at early stage with Gopher, gave me a different vision throughout the project. I will always want to learn about my competitors and their trends in hopes to stay ahead.

How do you define happiness? 

I believe happiness is defined by balance. First, being able to recognize what your passion and love is; then being able to balance that within your life. Too much of anything is unhealthy and in my eyes, happiness is more of learning about yourself and finding that perfect median between life and love.

 What book are you currently reading?

I just started listening to “Zero to One” by Peter Thiel, the founder of PayPal. Great read and suggest it to anyone starting their company or entrepreneur !

 What’s a personal habit that you believe contributes to your success?

One habit I continue to practice since the start of Gopher is consistently setting both small and large goals. With the larger goal always in mind, I believe in setting small attainable goals first. Once achieved, it gives a great sense of accomplishment, which in turn motivates and makes larger goals more attainable. Setting goals creates structure and allows a clear path to success.

 Have you collaborated with another business/artist in the past

I launched Gopher Case alongside 2 accessories but with many more in the pipeline. Even though Gopher is currently engineering several other accessories, I do have many thoughts on collaboration for these products. I think timing and the status of Gopher is crucial when approaching other companies and brands but it would be amazing if the collaboration were successfully reached!

Connect with Carlos Sirgo

website

instagram