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/

In a world where unanswered questions often accompany stories of those who have vanished, Melissa Twardowski stands as a beacon of perseverance and hope. For 35 long years, Melissa has been fighting to keep the memory and story of her sister, Deanna Maryfield, alive—a battle as much about seeking justice as it is about honoring Deanna’s life.Watch our interview with Melissa as we dive into what happened to Deanna. Go to www.findingdeanna.com to stay updated on the search efforts.

Susan Haring is a woman of deep faith and unwavering dedication to serving others. While raising her children, Susan also loved volunteering to help those in need. She supported women at a local pregnancy center, advocated for vulnerable youth as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (C.A.S.A.), and mentored high school students. By God’s grace, she has devoted her life to encouraging and uplifting those in need.

Susan also served on a Women’s Ministry Board at her church, a further reflection of her passion for fostering community and faith.

Writing My Faithful Savior is another extension of that calling-a powerful testimony of God’s miraculous hand in her son’s life and His boundless love for all His children. Susan prays that this true story will inspire and strengthen the faith of those who read it.

When she's not writing or serving others, Susan appreciates the simple joys of life-sipping coffee with friends, offering a listening ear to those who are hurting, snuggling with her grandchildren, and baking their often requested chocolate cake.

One childhood joy Susan has never outgrown is searching for seashell treasures on every beach she visits! Soaking up sunny days, reading inspirational true stories and vacationing with family are also delightful to her soul.

Married over 40 years, she loves quiet evenings and dinners with her husband.

Follow her:

www.authorsusanharing.com

Purchase her book:

https://a.co/d/1LrjCOC