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In this powerful episode, Marine Corps veteran Larry Wilson — founder and CEO of Deep Blue Dive Therapy, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to supporting veterans and first responders suffering from PTSD through therapeutic scuba diving — joins us to share the depths of his mission. As a decorated veteran turned mental health advocate, Larry reveals how underwater immersion can transform trauma, rebuild community, and restore purpose. Tune in as he unpacks his journey from service to service, the founding of Deep Blue Dive Therapy, and how embracing calm beneath the waves has helped countless warriors emerge stronger and more resilient. Discover how this life-changing approach offers peace where hypervigilance once ruled, and learn how we can all support the ripple effect of healing.

Resources & support: Deep Blue Dive Therapy (DBDT) — Deep Blue Dive Therapy Inc is a U.S.-registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Windermere, FL, dedicated to helping active-duty service members, veterans, and first responders suffering from PTSD through scuba therapy and related programs.

Check out Deep Blue Dive Therapy website for more information: https://www.deepbluedivetherapy.org/

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This week on DogTags to Ownership, Matt and Julie sit down with Brent Bowers - a former Army officer turned real estate investor and land flipping expert. Brent shares how he transitioned from active duty to full-time entrepreneur, building The Land Sharks coaching business and amassing passive income through strategic land deals.

Tune in as Brent reveals how military discipline shaped his mindset, the steps he took to replace his active-duty income, and how he now helps others - especially veterans - achieve financial freedom through land investing. Whether you're curious about real estate or looking for your post-service path, this episode is packed with insights and motivation you won't want to miss.

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In this special milestone episode of DogTags to Ownership, Matt and Julie hit pause to reflect on the journey so far. They recap the inspiring stories and lessons from Episodes 27-29, featuring Wesley Hutchinson of Whiskey Run Customs, Sean Loosen of PDS Optical, and Christopher McKinney of OpSynergy.

From handcrafted woodwork to vision care for veterans to mastering the PMP, these episodes showcase the power of purpose-driven entrepreneurship. Matt and Julie also share behind-the-scenes moments, thank the listeners who've been with them since day one, and talk about what's coming next for the show.

Whether you're just tuning in or have been with us from the beginning -THANK YOU for helping us reach 30 episodes!

Listen noiw and celebrate this milestone with us.

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In Episode 29 of DogTags to Ownership, Matt and Julie sit down with Christopher Mckinney - Retired U.S. Army Veteran and Founder of OpSynergy - to dive into his powerful journey from the frontlines to founding his own business. Christopher shares how the core principles of project management, strategic certification, and strong mentorship helped shaped his path to entrepreneurship.

This episode is packed with valuable insights for veterans navigating their transition to civilian life. From leveraging programs like Army ignited, to building networks that matter, Christopher offers actionable advice and hard-learned lessons that every service member should hear.

Whether you're started your own business or figuring out your next mission post-service, this conversation is a must-listen.

Tap in now to hear how discipline, adaptability, and the right resources can launch your next chapter.

#DogTagstoOwnership #Episode29 #VeteranEntrepreneur #ChristopherMcKinney #OPSSynergy #ArmyIgnited #FromServiceToSuccess #ProjectManagement #TransitionTips #MilitaryToBusiness

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In this episode of DogTags to Ownership, we sit down with Sean Loosen, a U.S. Army veteran and West Point graduate who took the lessons of leadership, discipline, and grit from the infantry field to the forefront of the optical industry.

As the Owner and CEO of PDS Optical, Sean shares how his military background shaped his entrepreneurial mindset, the challenges of scaling a specialized manufacturing company, and why serving others—whether in uniform or through business—remains his driving purpose.

From combat boots to custom lenses, Sean’s story is a powerful example of how veterans can innovate, lead, and thrive in civilian industries.

Learn more about PDS Optical: https://pdsoptical.com Tune in now and be inspired to take your own next step from service to ownership.

#DogTagsToOwnership #VeteranEntrepreneur #SeanLoosen #PDSOptical #WestPointGrad #InfantryToIndustry #VeteranOwned #MilitaryTransition #LeadershipInBusiness

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In this episode, Wesley Hutchinson shares his inspiring journey from being a United States Marine Corps veteran to becoming a successful entrepreneur with his business, Whiskey Run Customs. He discusses the challenges of transitioning from military life to civilian life, the importance of community support, and the growth of his woodworking business. Wesley emphasizes the significance of pursuing one's passion and the lessons learned along the way, including the impact of COVID-19 on small businesses and the importance of maintaining a work-life balance.

If you've ever wondered how to channel your skills, service, and story into something uniquely your own - this episode is for you.

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In this special recap episode, Julie and Matt connect the dots across Episodes 23 to 25, highlighting how each guest embodies the power of transforming service into impact. From Leroy Roberts, Founder & CEO of Team Worth Solutions, to Kimberly Jung, CEO of Blanchard House, and Patrick Flood, Founder & CEO of Owners in Honor of — these veterans are leading with purpose, building businesses, and creating real-world change.

Plus, stay tuned for bonus content with Joshua I. Altman, Founder & CEO of Beltway Media. Josh shares why businesses require effective storytelling is critical for veterans to be successful in entrepreneurship.

Whether you’re in uniform, transitioning, or already navigating the world of entrepreneurship — this episode is packed with real lessons, veteran insight, and inspiration for anyone ready to turn their DogTags into ownership.

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In this episode of DogTags to Ownership, hosts Julie and Matt sit down with U.S. Army veteran and the visionary Founder and CEO of Owners in Honor. Patrick shares his remarkable journey from serving in the Army Reserves to answering the call to active duty after 9/11—and how those formative experiences ignited his passion for service beyond the uniform.

Now, through Owners in Honor, Patrick is on a mission to help veterans turn their DogTags into deeds of ownership by guiding them through entrepreneurship through acquisition (ETA). Learn how Patrick’s program equips veterans with the tools, mentorship, and capital pathways to buy existing businesses and step into the next phase of leadership—as business owners.

Whether you’re a transitioning service member, a veteran entrepreneur, or someone passionate about supporting the veteran community, Patrick’s story will leave you inspired to think bigger, act boldly, and own your future.

Check out Owners in Honor at https://www.ownersinhonor.org/

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