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Summary

In this conversation, Jeremy Stalnecker, a US Marine Corps veteran and co-founder of the Mighty Oaks Foundation, shares his journey from military service to helping veterans transition to civilian life. He discusses the challenges of identity and purpose after leaving the military, the catalysts that led him to find his calling, and the establishment of the Mighty Oaks Foundation, which provides support and resources for veterans and their families. Jeremy emphasizes the importance of community, mentorship, and resilience in overcoming struggles and finding meaning in life after service.

Takeaways

• Jeremy's military service shaped his identity and purpose.
• The transition from military to civilian life can be challenging.
• Common struggles among veterans include identity and purpose.
• Support from family and community is crucial during transitions.
• Mighty Oaks Foundation was created to help veterans find hope.
• The foundation offers programs and resources for veterans and first responders.
• Podcasting serves as a platform to share stories and insights.
• It's important to connect with others who have similar experiences.
• Advice for veterans includes seeking mentorship and support.
• Finding one's purpose often involves helping others.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction to Jeremy Stalnecker
2. 06:05 Military Service and Transition Challenges
3. 11:01 Struggles with Identity Post-Military
4. 15:27 Catalysts for Change and Finding Purpose
5. 20:21 The Birth of Mighty Oaks Foundation
6. 24:56 Mighty Oaks Programs and Resources
7. 27:51 Podcasting Journey and Sharing Stories
8. 31:33 Advice for Transitioning Veterans
9. 35:09 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Check out Mighty Oaks Foundation at https://www.mightyoaksprograms.org/

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Summary
In this episode, Kamar Perkins shares his journey from being a U.S. Army officer to becoming an entrepreneur and founder of ProTech Consulting Group. He discusses the challenges of transitioning from military to civilian life, the importance of building a strong team, and his commitment to supporting veterans and youth in his community. Kamar emphasizes the significance of perseverance, defining success through impact, and the value of doing what makes you happy.

Takeaways

• Kamar Perkins transitioned from military to entrepreneurship.
• He emphasizes the importance of teamwork and leadership.
• Kamar's mission includes supporting veterans and youth.
• He believes in the power of perseverance and not quitting.
• Success is defined by the impact one has on others.
• Kamar advocates for affordable housing for veterans.
• He encourages service members to find their passion post-military.
• The One Thing by Gary Keller is a recommended read.
• Kamar makes his bed every morning as part of his routine.
• He values community and collaboration in business.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction to Kamar Perkins
2. 01:27 Kamar's Military Journey and Transition
3. 04:10 Building a Business with Purpose
4. 06:30 Passion and Impact in Entrepreneurship
5. 09:18 Navigating the Tech Landscape
6. 11:26 Team Building and Leadership Principles
7. 13:57 Community Engagement and Youth Support
8. 21:09 The Artistic Journey: A Love for Art
9. 22:37 Supporting Veterans: Nonprofit Initiatives and Community Impact
10. 24:46 Challenges of Transition: Navigating Life After Military Service
11. 25:51 Defining Success: Impact and Legacy
12. 27:12 Advice for Transitioning Service Members: Finding Your Path
13. 29:04 Perseverance: The Importance of Not Quitting
14. 32:02 Personal Connections: Sports and Community
15. 32:57 Real Estate Insights: Recommendations and Resources
16. 37:02 DogTagstoOwnershipJingle.mp3

To learn more about Kamar and Protect Consulting Group visit their website at https://protechconsultinggroup.com/

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Summary

In this episode, Nicole Zettlemoyer shares her inspiring journey from serving in the military to becoming a successful entrepreneur with her business, Wreaths by Nicole P. She discusses her military background, the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, and how she accidentally started her wreath-making business during the pandemic. Nicole highlights the importance of community support, her experiences with Gold Star families, and the operational challenges she faces as a small business owner. She also shares insights on marketing strategies, product expansion, and the emotional connections her wreaths create for customers.

Takeaways

• Nicole's journey from military service to entrepreneurship is inspiring.
• She started her wreath business during the pandemic by accident.
• Community support played a crucial role in her business growth.
• Nicole emphasizes the importance of being present for her children.
• Going viral led to a significant increase in demand for her wreaths.
• She faced challenges in setting up her business and managing operations.
• Shipping costs are a significant factor in her business model.
• Nicole is exploring ways to expand her product offerings.
• She connects deeply with Gold Star families through her work.
• Content creation and marketing are ongoing challenges for her.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction to Nicole Zettlemoyer
2. 04:24 Military Journey and Transition
3. 06:05 Starting the Business: Wreaths by Nicole
4. 09:22 Going Viral and Business Growth
5. 12:02 Operational Challenges and Business Setup
6. 14:29 Current Business Operations and Volume
7. 17:30 Marketing Strategies and Community Engagement
8. 20:49 Expanding Product Offerings
9. 23:49 Connecting with Gold Star Families
10. 28:39 Challenges and Lessons Learned
11. 31:31 Recommendations and Final Thoughts

Check out Wreaths by Nicole P. at https://www.wreathsbynicolep.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoqjOD3aRe4JZkfV_7fQf0xs1JOh155rg3DfYcTDl8FuGRTIShGU

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Summary:

In this episode of Dog Tags to Ownership, hosts Julie Austin and Matt Cain discuss the journeys of veterans transitioning into entrepreneurship. They recap the first three episodes of Season Two, highlighting the stories of Rick Franco, Patrick Murphy, and Ash Stafford, who exemplify leadership, community building, and the importance of veteran voices in business. The conversation emphasizes the mindset needed for success and the significance of creating a supportive ecosystem for veteran entrepreneurs.

Bonus Content:

Brian Thompson, a tax attorney and certified financial planner, discusses his journey from tax law to helping LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs with financial planning. He emphasizes the importance of mission-driven business practices and the need for financial literacy among military members transitioning to entrepreneurship. Brian shares insights on the holistic approach to financial planning, the significance of understanding one's mission, vision, and values, and offers advice for aspiring entrepreneurs to take action and start their journey.

Takeaways

• Veterans are not starting over; they are starting from experience.
• Leadership and discipline learned in the military are valuable in business.
• Community support is crucial for transitioning veterans.
• Ownership is a mindset, not just a path.
• Veterans can create purpose-driven brands that resonate with their experiences.
• Daily habits and rituals can set the tone for success.
• Networking is essential for business growth and support.
• Veterans have unique problem-solving skills that benefit society.
• The journey from service to entrepreneurship is ongoing and impactful.
• Collaboration among veteran-owned businesses can amplify their reach and success.
• Brian Thompson specializes in financial planning for LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs.
• He transitioned from being a tax attorney to a financial planner in 2016.
• Brian's passion lies in helping others navigate financial complexities.
• He emphasizes the importance of mission, vision, and values in business.
• Financial literacy is crucial for military members transitioning to entrepreneurship.
• Brian advocates for closing the racial wealth gap through business ownership.
• He believes in a holistic approach to financial planning.
• Entrepreneurship can be both exciting and anxiety-inducing.
• Brian encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to take action and start their journey.
• Community support is vital for success in entrepreneurship.

Want to learn more about Brian Thompson check out his website https://btfinancial.com/

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Summary

In this conversation, Ash, a member of the British Armed Forces and founder of Forces Brand, discusses his journey from military service to entrepreneurship. He shares the inspiration behind Forces Brand, which aims to support veteran-owned businesses through a marketplace and community platform. The discussion covers the challenges of building the brand, the importance of community support, and advice for transitioning veterans looking to start their own businesses. Ash emphasizes the significance of personal development, customer service, and surrounding oneself with positive influences.

Takeaways

• Forces Brand started as a podcast focused on creativity among veterans.
• The app aims to engage users directly with veteran businesses.
• Building an app is challenging, especially for those without a tech background.
• Ash emphasizes the importance of personal development in entrepreneurship.
• Community support is crucial for veteran businesses to thrive.
• Customer service can significantly impact business success.
• Not all support will come from expected sources; strangers can be allies.
• Surrounding oneself with positive people is essential for growth.
• The journey of entrepreneurship requires self-motivation and discipline.
• Ash recommends books that focus on understanding different perspectives.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Forces Brand and Ash's Background
02:39 The Birth of Forces Brand: A Mission to Support Veterans
05:23 Transitioning from Military to Entrepreneur: Challenges and Learning
08:19 Building the Forces Brand App: A New Avenue for Engagement
11:08 The Importance of Community and Networking in Business
13:36 Expanding Forces Brand: Global Aspirations and Collaborations
16:17 The Directory and Verification Process for Veteran Businesses
18:51 Challenges in the Veteran Business Landscape
21:27 Advice for Transitioning Veterans: Building a Supportive Network
23:59 Financial Sustainability and Growth Strategies for Forces Brand
26:52 Personal Challenges and Overcoming Self-Doubt
29:30 Final Thoughts and Recommendations for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Check Forces Brand Website: https://www.forcesbrands.com/

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Summary

In this episode, Patrick Murphy, a veteran and former congressman, shares his journey from military service to entrepreneurship and political leadership. He discusses the importance of veterans transitioning into civilian life, the need for financial literacy, and the role of veterans as civic assets. Murphy emphasizes the significance of networking, community building, and the impact of entrepreneurship on veterans' lives. He also shares personal insights on leadership, daily habits, and future aspirations for veterans in public service.

Takeaways

• Veterans have a unique perspective that can benefit society.
• Transitioning from military to civilian life requires planning and support.
• Entrepreneurship is a viable path for veterans seeking independence.
• Financial literacy is crucial for successful business ownership.
• Networking is essential for personal and professional growth.
• Veterans should be encouraged to pursue political public service.
• Community engagement can amplify the voices of veterans.
• Daily habits and routines contribute to effective leadership.
• Understanding the importance of civic responsibility is vital for veterans.
• The narrative around veterans should focus on their strengths, not their struggles.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Patrick J. Murphy
01:05 Military Background and Service
03:39 Transitioning to Civilian Life and Politics
07:27 Legislative Achievements and Advocacy
12:05 Entrepreneurship and Supporting Veteran-Owned Businesses
16:31 Leadership and Daily Habits for Success
21:57 Vision for the Future: Empowering Veterans in Politics
24:59 Balancing Act: Managing Time and Priorities
27:25 Financial Responsibility: The Key to Personal and National Stability
30:56 Networking: Your Net Worth is Your Network
34:34 Advice for Success: Living a Purpose-Driven Life
39:08 Final Thoughts: The Importance of Small Habits
41:07 Introduction to Dog Tags to Ownership
41:24 Empowering Veterans in Entrepreneurship
41:46 Building a Community for Success

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In this episode, Rick Franco shares his remarkable journey from military service to entrepreneurship, detailing the challenges and triumphs of transitioning into the bourbon industry with Four Branches Bourbon. He emphasizes the importance of community, resilience, and the mission behind the brand, which aims to honor veterans and promote a positive message around alcohol consumption. The conversation explores the complexities of starting a business in a highly regulated industry and the significance of giving back to the veteran community.

https://www.fourbranches.com/

Chapters

00:00 From Military Service to Entrepreneurship
16:30 The Birth of Four Branches Bourbon
32:49 Navigating the Bourbon Industry
39:59 Sip to Remember: A New Message
47:29 Lessons Learned and Final Thoughts

Takeaways

Rick Franco shares his journey from DogTags to Ownership.

• The transition from military to civilian life can be challenging.
• Four Branches Bourbon was founded to honor veterans and give back to the community.
• The bourbon industry is highly regulated and complex.
• Building a network and seeking mentorship is crucial in business.
• The message of 'Sip to Remember' aims to change how veterans engage with alcohol.
• Rick emphasizes the importance of finding your 'why' in business.
• The company donates 4% of profits to veteran nonprofits.
• Persistence and resilience are key to overcoming challenges in business.
• Making your bed symbolizes discipline and control over your environment.

Support the show

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Episode Summary

In this episode, the Austin and Cain families celebrate the one-year anniversary of 'DogTags to Ownership.' They reflect on the journey of creating the podcast, the lessons learned from various guests, and the importance of building a supportive community for veterans transitioning into entrepreneurship.

The conversation highlights key themes such as persistence, taking action, and finding purpose, while also discussing future plans for the podcast and community engagement.

Key Takeaways

• Persistence is key for entrepreneurs.
• Building a community is essential for success.
• Taking action is more important than perfection.
• Diverse guest perspectives enrich the podcast experience.
• Finding purpose is crucial in transitioning from military to civilian life.
• The podcast has evolved significantly over the year.
• Engaging with listeners creates a ripple effect of inspiration.
• Future plans include virtual meetups and partnerships.
• Celebrating milestones helps reflect on progress.
• Support from family is vital in entrepreneurial journeys.

Episode Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview
03:37 Celebrating Milestones and Guest Highlights
08:39 Themes of Persistence and Community Building
17:18 Future Plans and Expanding the Podcast
22:28 Reflections on Transitioning from Military to Entrepreneurship
27:21 Closing Remarks and Looking Ahead

Support the show

Visit our website: https://www.dogtags-to-ownership.com/

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