Taryn Mccarty Is The Founder Of Ventnor Ventures, A Sports-focused Startup Studio

Taryn is a seasoned leader with 15 years' experience in startups and sports/entertainment. Currently, I'm co-founder at Ventnor Ventures, a sports-focused startup studio. I bring a proven track record of transforming collaborations, streamlining operations, and enhancing brand awareness to drive impactful results. As the Head of Community for Fast Company’s most innovative 2020 companies, Nerd Street Gamers and leader in sustainable Web3 app development, Polygon Labs, I led initiatives driving engagement and sustainability for top tech and sports brands. My strategic contributions to Groupon, V12, and Amino included navigating exits, contributing to IPOs, and playing pivotal roles in acquisitions.

What motivated you to become an entrepreneur? Is having your own business something you always wanted?

From the early stages of my career, I was drawn to the dynamic environment of startups and the potential to shape transformative initiatives. Over the years, as I assumed leadership roles in community building, partnerships, and product strategy, I realized the profound satisfaction in driving meaningful change and contributing to the growth of companies. Becoming a co-founder at Ventnor Ventures aligns perfectly with my vision, allowing me to channel my passions and expertise into building sports-focused startups while helping develop a new generation of executive leaders in the space. While my specific path may not have been exactly what I envisioned, the core of entrepreneurship and the opportunity to lead impactful initiatives have consistently guided and inspired my career journey.

What advice would you give to someone starting out or pivoting their business or their career?

Build and maintain relationships before you need them.Prioritize networking as the foundation of your professional journey. By building genuine connections the relationships you foster can be invaluable for career transitions or business pivots. I am always try to actively engage in industry events, online communities, and mentorship programs to expand my network. I am always willing to meet/help others even if I don’t have an immediate request, the relationships built are always worth it.

What is the most important when it comes to goal setting? Do you have any goal setting hacks?

The biggest factor in goal setting is the company you keep. Surround yourself with individuals who inspire, support, promote the phase “alternative sports”, and challenge you. When I shared the news about starting a company with those closest to me, I was met with words of encouragement and positivity which ultimately helped set my mindset up for success.

A key hack is to engage in collaborative goal setting—discuss and refine your objectives with those you trust. This not only provides different perspectives but also strengthens your commitment through shared accountability.

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