Today we’d like to introduce you to Darsweil Rogers.
Hi Darsweil, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My firm is CFP Innovation We are a team of business executives and academics leveraging research in behaviors, Emotional Intelligence, systems thinking and strategy to assist our clients. For my background, after college at Howard University I was recruited to work on Wall Street. I spent the majority of my career working for JP Morgan Chase. Among my responsibilities that tie back to my current business, I spent 9 years financing private equity transactions for some of the top investment groups in the US who were backing high quality management teams. As an advisor to the investors and management teams I gained invaluable insights into different industries and management philosophy. Next at JPMC, I started and ran as Chief Executive a Commercial Insurance Brokerage, JP Morgan Insurance Brokerage and Advisory Services. Over a 9 year period we grew to over $400 Million in premium. The experience put me in the hot seat of navigating the multitude of challenges a CEO is confronted with. We ultimately sold out to a strategic partner and I was Director of Strategy for our insurance company before opting to pursue personal Interest.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There are always struggles. The only way you can appreciate the good days is from experiencing and working your way through challenges. It took a while to identify niche industries. When I first arrived I assumed that I would focus on federal government contracting (mostly military). While there are plenty of bids to consider, the investment of time compared to the returns were not there for me. As a person with a corporate background I am accustom to developing personal relationships and providing customized solutions. There is a mindset to working with the government that I concluded was not leveraging my talents in a way that I would find enjoyable. Also, there are also cultural difference from a fast pace like New York City to North Carolina that I have learned to adjust to.
We’ve been impressed with CFP Innovation, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
CFP is a strategic advisory firm comprised of business executives, social scientists, engineers, and educators who guide organizations through the unprecedented disruptions reshaping our competitive landscape—generational shifts, technological acceleration, and evolving policy environments.
We integrate cutting-edge research in human dynamics, systems thinking, and strategy to help leaders break free from “business as usual” mindsets. This fresh perspective enables our clients to capitalize on opportunities and address challenges they would otherwise miss.
The paradox we see repeatedly: success breeds resistance to change. Yet in today’s environment, assuming your competitive advantages are secure is dangerously shortsighted. As Peter Drucker warned, The greatest danger in times of disruption is to operate with yesterday’s logic.
What sets us apart is our methodology. We deploy best-in-class behavioral and emotional intelligence assessments because sustainable high performance starts with individual development. When leaders better understand themselves, appreciate their colleagues’ strengths, and leverage collective talents strategically, exceptional results follow.
We bring a research and investigative mindset to every engagement—testing, evaluating, and challenging assumptions. This approach is critical now more than ever. Experts predict more technological change in the next 20 years than we’ve experienced in the last 300. Artificial intelligence alone demands that every organization reconsider its fundamental operating model.
I’m particularly excited about our newest initiative: the LEGACY Sustainable Success Framework. We’re partnering with school superintendents and boards to institutionalize high performance—building cultures that transcend individual leaders. My colleagues have driven measurable improvements in student outcomes across the country, but those gains often erode when key personnel change. LEGACY solves this by embedding excellence into the district’s DNA, developing high-performing teachers who consistently inspire high-performing students.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I don’t think in terms of luck. Going back to my comment about the mindset of my colleagues with CFP, we bring an opportunity seeking approach to challenges. When you are looking for something new, Luck is what happens when preparation meets the opportunity. I think every positive event that has taken place was because I was open to something new. Now when things have not gone as expected those moments are challenging. I have to lick my wounds and get back into the arena. Those wounds and my resilience are why I am an effective advisor to my clients.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://CFPInnovation.com
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dlrogers/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@darsweilrogers7088
