In this episode of the Veteran Lifestyle Magazine Podcast, hosts Annette Whittenberger and Joe Palacios sit down with Dave Rossberg, a former U.S. Navy nuclear submarine officer who transitioned into a successful career as a general contractor and business advisor.

Dave shares his journey from structured military service to the unpredictable world of entrepreneurship, highlighting how leadership, mindset, and community form the foundation of success.

Through candid reflections, he explains how the lessons learned in high-pressure military environments—teamwork, accountability, and adaptability—translate seamlessly into building and running a business.

• Dave’s path shows the value of adaptability—shifting from Navy service to entrepreneurship by finding passion in helping others succeed.

• Military discipline provided the structure, but true fulfillment came from supporting tradespeople and business owners.

• Effective leadership isn’t about control—it’s about empowering people and holding them accountable.

• Just as operating a nuclear submarine requires every individual to contribute, running a business requires relationship-based leadership.

• Success depends on cultivating a growth mindset—viewing challenges as opportunities rather than barriers.

• Both Dave and Joe emphasized that striving for continuous improvement matters more than knowing everything.

• “Finding your tribe” is essential for both veterans and entrepreneurs.

• Events like Veterans Edge demonstrate the importance of collaboration, encouragement, and belonging in business and personal growth.

• Dave’s parting wisdom captures the essence of entrepreneurship: align your work with what truly energizes you.

• Passion, discipline, and community create the bridge from military service to entrepreneurial success

🔑 Key Takeaways

1. Transition with Purpose

2. Leadership as Empowerment

3. Mindset is Everything

4. Community is a Force Multiplier

5. Do What Sets Your Soul on Fire

Connect with Dave:

https://daverossberg.focalpointcoaching.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidrossberg/

https://www.facebook.com/rossberg.dave

https://www.instagram.com/dave.rossberg/