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Summary:

In this Special Episode of Season 2, Episode 11, Julie sits down with members of the DAV Patriot Bootcamp Winter Cohort to explore the journeys of veteran entrepreneurs and military connect entrepreneurs at different stages of building their businesses.

From entrepreneurs with Brand-New ideas to Seasoned Founders continuing to sharpen their skills, this episode highlights the power of community, mentorship, and lifelong learning within the Veteran Entrepreneur Ecosystem. The conversations reveal how programs like DAV Patriot Bootcamp help veterans turn mission-driven ideas into thriving businesses while building lasting connections with fellow founders.

If you're a veteran, military connected, active duty entrepreneur or a veteran with a business idea, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at why so many veterans say the Bootcamp experience is truly transformative--and why joining a future cohort may be one of the best investments you can make in yourself and your business.

This episode is also part of Podcasthon 2026, supporting efforts to raise awareness and funds for DAV Patriot Bootcamp and their mission to empower veterans and military families through entrepreneurship.

Tune in to hear inspiring stories, valuable insights, and why this community continues to grow stronger with every cohort.

Check out Podcasthon 2026 to donate now to DAV Patriot Boot Camp

Interested in DAV Patriot Bootcamp check out https://patriotbootcamp.org/

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Summary

In this episode, U.S. Army veteran and security expert Nick Lawless shares his inspiring journey from humble beginnings and military service to founding successful security companies. Discover insights on leadership, entrepreneurship, and the importance of resilience and networking.

Chapters

1. 00:00 From Humble Beginnings to Military Service
2. 10:13 Transitioning from Military to Federal Government
3. 19:12 Entrepreneurship and Acquiring Security Companies
4. 26:45 Navigating Challenges in the Security Industry
5. 28:55 Networking: Building Connections for Success
6. 30:17 Vision for the Future: Business Growth and Expansion
7. 32:01 The Power of Networking in the Military Community
8. 32:01 Leadership and the Impact of Lawless Leadership
9. 32:01 Lessons from Military Strategy and Leadership
10. 34:31 Discipline and Daily Habits for Success
11. 35:56 Introduction to Dog Tags to Ownership
12. 35:56 Building a Supportive Community
13. 36:13 Invitation for Engagement and Future Guests

Key Topics

• Military transition to entrepreneurship
• Security industry evolution and AI integration
• Leadership and resilience in business
• Acquisition strategies for security companies

Resources

Lawless Leadership Book

CPS1 Security Company
White House Security Protocols
Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council
Thomas Ricks' Book on Military Strategy

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Summary:

Veteran Jason Ambrosino shares his inspiring journey from military service to successful entrepreneurship in the cannabis industry. Learn about his military transition, business strategies, resilience, and insights for veterans considering business ownership.

Key Topics:

• Military transition and entrepreneurship
• Building a veteran-focused cannabis brand
• Business scaling and industry cycles
• Resilience through financial and personal challenges
• Legal and regulatory landscape in cannabis industry

Chapters:

1. 00:00 Introduction to Jason Ambrosino
2. 02:01 Military Background and Service
3. 05:29 Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life
4. 07:05 Struggles with Medication and Mental Health
5. 09:15 Exploring Alternative Therapies
6. 10:32 Founding American Veteran Enterprise Team
7. 13:49 First Contracting Experience
8. 16:32 Navigating Government Contracts
9. 17:52 Resilience in Business
10. 19:41 Establishing Veterans Holdings
11. 20:58 The Rise of Veterans Holdings
12. 25:12 Scaling Challenges and Strategies
13. 31:14 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
14. 35:39 Unique Opportunities for Veterans
15. 38:18 Building a Supportive Community for Veterans

Resources

VeteransChoiceCreations
Book Recommendation: How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie

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Summary

This episode features inspiring stories from our three February guest who have turned their DogTags into Ownership. This recap episode focuses on momentum, resilience, and community support. Matt and Julie recap Episode 5 with Nicole founder and owner of Wreaths by Nicole P., Episode 6 with Kamar Perkins founder and owner of Protect Consulting Group, and Jeremy Stalnecker co-founder of Mighty Oaks Foundation, each sharing their journeys of overcoming adversity and building impactful businesses.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction to Dog Tags to Ownership
2. 01:21 Celebrating Community and Networking
3. 01:55 Momentum in Entrepreneurship
4. 02:24 Nicole's Journey with Reese by Nicole P
5. 05:16 Kamara Perkins: A Serial Entrepreneur
6. 08:42 Jeremy Stahlnecker and the Mighty Oaks Foundation
7. 13:09 The Importance of Moving Forward
8. 14:58 Recap and Call to Action

Resources

Mighty Oaks Foundation
Wreaths by Nicole P.
ProTech Consulting Group

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

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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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