Darnell Smith was working a dead-end job when he first found CrossPurpose. One of Darnell’s long-term goals at the time was to get his Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), but the training and licensing required were prohibitively expensive. With CrossPurpose, Darnell had an opportunity to get his CDL for free by participating in the six-month Leader program.
When he joined, Darnell was surprised and encouraged by CrossPurpose’s holistic training approach.“I kind of figured it was just going to be another little sit down program, you know, figure it out. But no, it felt like they were really trying to get you on board to find your way,” he said. “I had a whole different mindset about things and living right after I graduated.”
After graduating, Darnell felt motivated to keep finding ways to get more out of the work he was doing and decided to enroll in the Legacy program, which was focused on building wealth. He chose to focus on Change Agency specifically, because he was interested in starting his own business. Change Agents work with staff and coaches to create a business plan, then ask for funding for their company from a live audience in a Shark Tank-style event called Pitch Night
“I knew I wanted to be in business for myself, for sure. I was born an entrepreneur,” Darnell said. “You know you have it in you, but they bring it out with structure, consistency, the people pushing you along.”
Darnell pitched the idea for his own trucking company, Grey Goat Transportation, at Pitch Night in 2022. Through the event, he was able to secure enough funding and begin to get his business off the ground with his family.
“It was great just because I had my sons. Then my nephews came along. We wanted to truck six, seven days a week. They’re great memories, just running and having fun, making money. It was just great.” he said.
Besides the benefits of getting to go into business with close friends and family, Darnell also enjoyed the independence and excitement of being a business owner.
Another benefit of Darnell’s business model was the opportunity it gave him to provide support for his kids. Not only was he able to bring family members into his business, but his increased financial freedom opened up even more opportunities for the future.
“I just want them to follow their dreams at the end of the day, and at the same time know I’ll be here for them.” Darnell said.
Darnell’s son, Lafayette, chose to join Grey Goat early on as a business manager. He trained the employees, joined them on their first rides, and was a crucial member of the team in many other ways. After working in the business for a couple years, Lafayette was killed in a car accident—a loss that sent shockwaves through Darnell’s family and company.
“It’s still tough,” he said. “I can just remember the days of us riding around in that truck.I think he would want me to continue anyway.
With Grey Goat Transportation, Darnell and his son have created a legacy that will continue to serve their family. In memory of those Darnell loves and with hopes for the future, Grey Goat Transportation has the potential to grow and thrive for years to come, and Darnell has the support and community that he needs to help it realize that potential.
