Stay ConnectedThe After Action Review (AAR) is all about Veteran entrepreneurs!
These Veterans are making their mark on the world by taking a chance at owning their own business or running a non-profit for some terrific causes. They share their experiences and lessons learned from the military and how they’re bringing all of that to their entrepreneurial endeavors. These are their stories, from military service to entrepreneurship.
Email me at rodrodriguez@theaarpodcast.com
Copyright: © Copyright 2016 The After Action Review Podcast
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service.
Go to www.HivesforHeroes.com for more information!
Andrew Beltran started Original Grain from his barracks room while still it the Marines. We talk about the long journey to where they are today, how raising money's changed, and what to do when you made a bad call.
Links www.originalgrain.com Andrew Beltran's Email: andrew@orginialgrain.com Rod's Email: rod@clearcommo.com www.connectingvets.com www.stripes.com
Chris McPhee is the founder of Green Beret Media, PMP expert, and the most honest straight shooter I know. I invited him to be on what is most likely the last episode of this podcast.
Chris and I talk about the state of Veteran culture, Veteran entrepreneurship, and what I consider personally to be some shady business tactics we've both seen.
Join me perhaps one last time for an After Action Review of my own journey through business.
To learn more about Green Beret Media go to https://greenberetmedia.com/
Heads up! NSFW (NOT SAFE FOR WORK)
Jennifer Marshall is a Navy Veteran, accomplished actress, model, and super mom. We talk about her start in showbiz, what you should know before you decide to take on Hollywood, and how do you keep a secret identity exactly? All that and more!
Official Website: http://www.jennifermarshall.com Twitter: @jenn13jenn13 Instagram: @jenn13jenn13 Facebook: www.facebook.com/actressjennifermarshall
-----
Sponsors Clear Commo for all your podcast and audio book recording needs! www.clearcommo.com The Java Can, an all in one ruggedized coffee brewing solution! www.thejavacan.com
365 Days of Survival https://amzn.to/2RXXWMJ
Chris Coker is a prior service Army Officer and Airborne Ranger, business consultant, podcaster and entrepreneur. After transitioning from service and getting into Healthcare Consulting, he realized he needed to get back to his roots and launched Suit Soldier. Suit Soldier helps people understand how to take military expertise and inject it into business. Chris also produces the Suit Soldier Podcast, which helps veterans deal with transition challenges by showing them how to translate military excellence into success after service. Chris is an agent of change that has coached countless veterans and spoken at conferences to help veterans find their purpose and thrive once they take off the uniform.
The Suit Soldier Podcast - https://suitsoldier.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/suit-soldier/about/ FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/suitsoldier/ Instagram: @suitsoldier
Available everywhere you get your favorite podcasts!
-----
Sponsors Clear Commo for all your podcast and audio book recording needs! www.clearcommo.com The Java Can, an all in one ruggedized coffee brewing solution! www.thejavacan.com
365 Days of Survival https://amzn.to/2RXXWMJ
Jim White an Army Veteran and a professional consultant with decades of experience. In this episode we talked about the increasing abuse of the word "consultant", what you need to know about the profession, and how to tell the fakes from the real deal.
All that and more!
Jim White's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimwhiterdu/
Harbor Pilots LLC: http://harbor-pilots.com/ ___
Sponsors Clear Commo for all your podcast and audio book recording needs! www.clearcommo.com The Java Can, an all in one ruggedized coffee brewing solution! www.thejavacan.com
365 Days of Survival https://amzn.to/2RXXWMJ
Every year we are proud to attend and document Bunker Lab's Muster DC! This year we talked to just a handful of the business owners and pitch competitors who attended. Folks if you haven't been to one of these Musters you're in luck! A Bunker Lab's Muster is headed to a town near you!
Go to www.bunkerlabs.org to find out when and where the Muster will be in your state!
Franklin Consulting https://www.franklinconsultingllc.com
Critical Mass https://www.thecriticalmass.com
Badges United https://badgesunitedfoundation.org/
Off Duty Blue https://www.offdutyblue.com
Skylark Media https://www.skylarkmedia.com
___
Sponsors Clear Commo for all your podcast and audio book recording needs! www.clearcommo.com The Java Can, an all in one ruggedized coffee brewing solution! www.thejavacan.com
365 Days of Survival https://amzn.to/2RXXWMJ
I had a chance to talk with Michael Broderick, a US Marine Corps Veteran and noted actor. I'm a huge of the True Detective series so having a chance to talk with Mike was an awesome experience.
In this episode we talk about his journey to becoming an actor, how he's developed in his art, and the steps you should take if this is something you want to do as well. All that and more!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/actormichaelbroderick/
Twitter: @m_broderick
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1970374/
And go see True Detective Season 3 on HBO!
___
Sponsors Clear Commo for all your podcast and audio book recording needs! www.clearcommo.com The Java Can, an all in one ruggedized coffee brewing solution! www.thejavacan.com
365 Days of Survival https://amzn.to/2RXXWMJ
Erik Prince is one of the most controversial figures in the world of Veteran Business. The former CEO of Blackwater, a company that gained notoriety in the early 2000’s for its role in the war in Iraq, Erik has continuously been in the spotlight as the face of what some have called “privatized war”. But Erik would argue that those folks are misrepresenting him and his endeavors.
In this interview Erik Prince shares some of his lessons learned in business, the qualities an entrepreneur needs to be successful, and offers some real insight into the controversy around him and his former company.
Frontier Services Group: http://www.fsgroup.com/en/index.html Wars of Waste: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aHICAXzQ474 Blackwater Ammunition: https://www.blackwaterammo.com
From The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon my guest is the amazing and hilarious Dion Flynn! I met Dion Flynn at a storytelling workshop in Washington D.C. courtesy of the Armed Forces Arts Partnership. An amazing teacher, comedian, and Veteran, Dion was gracious enough to be a guest on the show to talk about how his childhood influenced his comedy, making peace with a colorful military career, and how to do a good Barrack Obama impression. Easily one of my favorite podcast guests!
Armed Forces Arts Partnership http://www.asapasap.org/
Paid Off https://www.trutv.com/shows/paid-off-with-michael-torpey/index.html
Dion Flynn Website https://dionflynn.com/
———
Sponsors Clear Commo for all your podcast and audio book recording needs! www.clearcommo.com The Java Can, an all in one ruggedized coffee brewing solution! www.thejavacan.com
365 Days of Survival https://amzn.to/2RXXWMJ
Rachel served in the US Navy as a Healthcare Administrator from 2012-2017.She is the founder of the Empowered Women Brunch group in Washington D.C., which connects and inspires future female entrepreneurs. Additionally Rachel volunteers with Veterati and ACP to provide one-on-one mentoring and guidance to military members who are either transitioning or struggling to find meaningful work. She also serves on the Board of Directors for Rescue, a 501(c)(3) working to connect veterans with social services. Rachel is an advocate for the 1.5M unemployed and underemployed veterans and she is actively developing innovative solutions to address this issue.
She is currently a senior consultant for Deloitte where she utilizes her military medical experience to leverage resources and reduce medical spending under the Presidential Category Management Initiative for Health Affairs and for the Government of Puerto Rico.
Get LinkedIn with Rachel at https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-kozy/
Combat veteran founded and operated, Semper K9’s mission is to enhance the quality of life for wounded, critically ill and injured members of the U.S. Armed Forces and their families by providing them assistance dogs. Using rescued and donated dogs they provide service dogs for psychiatric alert and mobility challenges free of charge to wounded service members.
To learn more about Semper K9 go to: http://www.semperk9.org
-----
Sponsors Clear Commo for all your podcast and audio book recording needs! www.clearcommo.com The Java Can, an all in one ruggedized coffee brewing solution! www.thejavacan.com
In this episode I visit Assault Forward at their Veterans in Residence office in Washington D.C. to find out how they plan to impact a crowded Veteran apparel market. We also talk about the challenges of having three co-founders and share stories about our holiday meals overseas. All that and more on this episode of The After Action Review!
To learn more about Assault Forward go to: https://assaultforward.us Use Promo code "AAR" and save 10% on your purchase! Merry Christmas!
-----
Sponsors Clear Commo for all your podcast and audio book recording needs! www.clearcommo.com The Java Can, an all in one ruggedized coffee brewing solution! www.thejavacan.com
Warfighter Hemp is comprised of veterans and non-veterans who believe in providing an alternative to the reality that many veterans are faced with – a cocktail of prescription painkillers and zombie dope. Their mission is to provide veterans and non-veterans with a holistic and natural alternative to those “drugs.” Steve Danyluk is a retired Marine and founder of Warfighter Hemp.
OFFER CODE! Use offer code "AAR" and get 50% off your purchase till the end of December!
Go to www.warfighterhemp.com
-----
Sponsors Clear Commo for all your podcast and audio book recording needs! www.clearcommo.com The Java Can, an all in one ruggedized coffee brewing solution! www.thejavacan.com
Thanks to the popularity of the UFC, BJJ is one of Americas fastest growing sports which means there are opportunities for entrepreneurs who are brave enough to jump into the not so proverbial ring.
My guest is a former Army Ranger and Special Forces Officer who shot in on the BJJ market. His school, United Martial Arts Academy in Fort Washington Maryland is carving out its own niche in the world of BJJ. Ladies and Gent, Steve Hopkins.
Website: https://www.unitedmartialartsmd.com Facebook: @UnitedMAAcademy Email: umaafortwashington@gmail.com
--- Sponsors Clear Commo for all your podcast and audio book recording needs! www.clearcommo.com The Java Can, an all in one ruggedized coffee brewing solution! www.thejavacan.com
RWB's Executive Director JJ Pinter is no stranger to the world of non-profits. In this episode we get into some of the nitty gritty that comes with starting a non-prof and it gets into some real talk folks. We also talk about the importance of community when it comes to fitness.
To learn more about RWB go: www.teamrwb.org
---
Folks don’t forget to checkout the sponsors and affiliates who make the show possible. And leave us a review on iTunes! The Java Can: www.thejavacan.com Use promo code "AAR" and get 10% off your purchase. Live Life Charged
Onnit's Alpha Brain!: www.onnit.com and use coupon code "AAR" to get 10% off your purchase!
Clear Commo: Let us help your business join the podcast revolution! www.clearcommo.com
Matt Sapaula is the Money Smart Guy! He's a former Marine turned insurance agent for PHP Agency. He's all over social media promoting his brand of entrepreneurship, inspiring others to take charge of their success. We sat down to talk at one of the newest PHP offices in Virginia. Also CONGRATS to Matt and his wife who recently announced, they're having a baby!
LINKS
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MoneySmartGuyMattSapaula
Instagram - @moneysmartguy
Website - www.phpagency.com
Katelyn Miller is making waves in the world of fitness through her social media platforms and encouraging women to take charge of their lives after sexual assault. This Navy Veteran and I talked about her own experience being the victim of sexual assault and how she's used fitness to put her life back together.
To learn more about Katelyn Miller check her out on Instagram and Twitter @bodybykatelyn
---
Folks don’t forget to checkout the sponsors and affiliates who make the show possible. The Java Can, a ruggedized coffee brewing system designed by a Green Beret so that you can make a fresh cup of coffee anywhere life takes you. www.thejavacan.com Use promo code "AAR" and get 10% off your purchase. Live Life Charged
And Onnit's Alpha Brain! Clinically proven to enhance memory, attention, and focus. Go to www.onnit.com and use coupon code "AAR" to get 10% off your purchase!
Few athletes have been able to do what Colton Smith has done. Balance a professional athletic career, a full time military career, business ownership, and family. I had a chance to talk with this remarkable Soldier Athlete about his business Enlisted Nine Fight Co, his career off and on the mat, and how he does it all.
Links Enlisted Nine Fight Co
My guest today is Bennet Tanton. He’s a former recon Marine and Army Infantryman. He's the host of the Change your POV podcast and Monday Motivation. He’s also Vice President of Battlesite Technologies and chief editor at the Change your POV Network! His new book Motivation Monday Volume 1 is now available from Amazon, the link is below!
Click here for Change your POV Network
Click here for Monday Motivation!
---
Folks don’t forget to checkout the sponsors and affiliates who make the show possible. Seabag Locker Coffee, roast to your cup in as little as four days! www.seabaglocker.com use promo code AAR and get 10% off your purchase
The Java Can, a ruggedized coffee brewing system designed by a Green Beret so that you can make a fresh cup of coffee anywhere life takes you. www.thejavacan.com Use promo code AAR and get 10% off your purchase. Live Life Charged
And Onnits Alpha Brain! Clinically proven to enhance memory, attention, and focus. Go to www.onnit.com and use coupon code AAR to get 10% off your purchase!
Happy 4th of July!
In this episode I talk to Levi Rodgers, a former Green Beret who has become a leader in the real estate market. Levi has led RE/MAX Military City to the top of the Ranks, gaining National recognition from RE/MAX and National Real Estate leaders in the Industry. He has done all of this with his Mission in mind: to show the world that his fellow Veterans, his People, can accomplish amazing things in Civilian life. In fact, Levi's multi-million dollar company is run predominantly by ex-service members and their spouses.
For more information on RE/MAX Miltary City visit them on Facebook by clicking HERE or call his office at (210) 331-7000
----
This episode of the The After Action Review Podcast is brought to you by Seabag Locker Coffee. Go to www.seabaglocker.com use promo code "AAR" and get 10% off your purchase
This episode is also brought to you by The Java Can, an all in one ruggedized coffee brewing system. Go to the www.thejavacan.com use promo code AAR and get 10% off your purchase.
Leadership means something different to every leader. I talked to the leaders at Bunker Labs about what leadership meant to them during their Leadership Summit right here in Washington D.C. Then I talk to the man that helped make all those interviews possible, US Army Green Beret turned entrepreneur Joshua Wathen. We talk about transitioning from Special Forces to becoming a Freshmen in college, the world of entrepreneurship, and of course Bunker Labs.
To learn more about Bunker Labs go to www.bunkerlabs.org
You can reach Joshua Wathen at joshua.wathen@bunkerlabs.org
---
This episode of the The After Action Review Podcast is brought to you by Seabag Locker Coffee. Go to www.seabaglocker.com use promo code "AAR" and get 10% off your purchase
This episode is also brought to you by The Java Can, an all in one ruggedized coffee brewing system. Go to the www.thejavacan.com use promo code AAR and get 10% off your purchase.
Tom Smoot is the CEO of Lift and Shift, a foundation dedicated to helping Veterans with PTSD through alternative therapies based in science and technology. Tom joins me in perhaps the loudest Starbucks in Maryland to talk with me about challenges of starting a non-profit and how his passion for engineering lead him to this innovative approach to tackling the problem of PTSD.
To learn more go to www.weliftandshift.com and be sure to visit them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/weliftandshift
We all hit hard times, don't give up and don't give in. If you feel like your considering suicide call 1-800-273-8255 You can always DM me on Facebook @theaarpodcast
This episode is brought to you by The Java Can and The Seabag Locker Coffee, go to www.theseabaglocker.com and www.thejavacan.com.
Use Promo Code "AAR" and save 10% at BOTH sites!
My guest is the Founder and CEO of Vital Warrior. He is a 22 year combat Veteran and retired Navy Seal. He has personally walked the tough road from trauma to recovery after suffering a combat-related injury from an exploded IED that went untreated for many years. Through a series of healing modalities that became the basis of his recovery, my guest realized he could help his fellow veterans and their families with this unique system of recovery. Vital Warrior's Mikal Vega!
To learn more about Vital Warrior visit www.vitalwarrior.org Also check out their Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/vitalwarrior.org
This episode is brought to you by The Java Can and The Seabag Locker Coffee, go to www.theseabaglocker.com and www.thejavacan.com.
Use Promo Code "AAR" and save 10% at BOTH sites!
This was recorded in January 2018, so you understand some references to the political atmosphere at the time.
A native of La Paz City, Bolivia, Fernando and his family migrated to Washington D.C. at an early age for the opportunity of achieving the American Dream. Learning from his father the qualities of a self-driven entrepreneur, Fernando founded the highly successful technology firm Nanotech.
Fernando Torrez is an Air Force Veteran, entrepreneur, and local political leader. He is a board member of the Alexandria Sheriff's Office's Correctional Services Advisory Board, the Government Relations Committee for the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce and the first Latino Commissioner to serve in the Alexandria Commission on Employment, Department of Community and Human Services & Center for Economic Support. Fernando is a proud family man, resides in Alexandria with his lovely wife Kamila, his two kids Alexandra and Fernando Jr. and their golden retriever Conan.
For more information on Nanotech or to reach out:
This is episode is a snapshot of a three day event, a Veteran Hackathon put on by Patriot Boot Camp here in Washington D.C. This event was incredible, the amount of time and dedication by these Vets, Vet Spouses, and Civilians was intense.
For more information Patriot Boot Camp and the next Technology Entrepreneurship Boot Camp in Denver Co visit www.patriotbootcamp.org. You can also learn more about the next Hackathon in Seattle, WA October 19-21 at http://vethacks.org.
Participants:
Sam Altman - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-altman-8427384/ Bernhard “Ber” Kirchner - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bernhard-kirchner/ Jameel Matin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jameelmatin/ or learn more about Operation Code at https://operationcode.orgMichael Irtmer - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelertmer/ Kerri Leigh Grady - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerri-leighgrady/ Kimberly McCaffrey - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-m-mccaffrey/ Justin Johnson - https://www.linkedin.com/in/elofjohnson/ Yool-Bin U. - https://www.linkedin.com/in/yool-bin-u-31b0b688/
Eric Mitchell works with the very biggest names in Veteran business so he's seen it all and in this interview he shares some of the most valuable insights into business I've heard in awhile. One look at the list of companies Life Flip Media represents and you know that what Eric shares on this episode is fire!
To learn more about Life Flip Media go to www.lifeflipmedia.com and be sure to follow them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/lifeflipmedia
Be sure to Listen-Like-Subscribe-and Share this episode!
This episode is brought to you by The Java Can and The Seabag Locker Coffee, go to www.theseabaglocker.com and www.thejavacan.com.
Use Promo Code "AAR" and save 10% at BOTH sites!
John Valentine is helping to feed the Fort Hood community, Veterans and servicemembers alike. His nonprofit Operation Phantom Support (OPS) does more though than just feed the community, they support it through a variety of programs that manages to help while maintaining the dignity and respect of those that need assistance. I had an opportunity to talk with John over Skype about how OPSis changing the face of Fort Hood and the city of Killeen.
To learn more about Operation Phantom Support, go to: www.phantomsupport.org
And visit their Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/OPSFortHood
This episode is brought to you by The Java Can, go to www.thejavacan.com and by The Seabag Locker Coffee, go to www.theseabaglocker.com
Use Promo Code "AAR" and save 10% at BOTH sites!
Every day kids go hungry right here in the United States. 1 in 6 children don't know where their next meal is coming from. Former Marine Tim White is tackling that problem right here in Virginia. I sat down and talk with this amazing Veteran who is changing the lives of children every day. This is an interview you don't want to miss!
To learn more go to https://staffordfoodsecurity.org
This episode is brought to you by The Java Can, go to www.thejavacan.com and by The Seabag Locker Coffee, go to www.theseabaglocker.com
Use Promo Code "AAR" and save 10% at BOTH sites!
Episode 39 – Vincent “Rocco” Vargas
You know him from Range 15, the Mat Best crew, and his numerous YouTube videos. This fall he’s looking to conquer the world of television in the new series Mayans MC, a spinoff of the highly popular Sons of Anarchy.
In this episode we get very personal with the man behind the characters we know in film and the internet. Rocco talks about priorities in his life, career, and his family. The ups, the downs, and how it’s all played a part in who he is now. An amazing interview with someone who is truly the future of the Veteran resurgence in the Hollywood scene.
Check out his website and podcast at https://vinnyroc.com/
He’s also on Facebook @vincentroccovargas
and on Instagram @vinnyroc
Don’t miss Mayans MC this Fall on FX!
This episode is sponsored by The Java Can and Seabag Locker Coffee!
Use Promo Code “AAR” and get 10% off your purchase!
🎙The Marine Rapper (TMR) brings his experience as a combat Veteran to life through a unique blend of rap and rock. Using a variety of rap styles from old school to new, TMR is blazing a trail in the music that is all his own. Now that he's launched Ninja Punch Music, he's helping other Veteran musicians launch their careers.
TMR and I talk about rap, the Marines, and being a different kind of Veteran than what most people expect. Great conversation with a truly talented musician.
⬇LINKS BELOW⬇
Website: www.themarinerapper.com https://ninjapunchmusic.com/about
Download TMR's latest album!
iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/album/id1311772776?ls=1&app=itunes
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/music/artist/The_Marine_Rapper?id=Aliasdoxwqrxwunk6fme7vufwhe&hl=en
Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/themarinerapper
Follow The Marine Rapper on Facebook and Instagram @themarinerapper
The Bunker Labs D.C. Muster 2018 took place on March 8th 2018. It was a one day experience designed to showcase military Veteran and spouse entrepreneurs connecting them to their future investors and customers. The event provided the perfect environment for veterans to share their businesses with local experts, investors, and connectors to get feedback and create relationships with the Washington DC-area's business community and impact the region's economic growth.
If you want to learn more about Bunker Labs visit https://bunkerlabs.org and if you’re in the D.C area be sure to check out https://bunkerlabs.org/washington-dc
Be sure to visit the Veteran and Veteran Spouse businesses featured in this episode.
Their links are below:
Matt Lembright - https://www.enabldsecurity.com
Rennet Dallas - https://www.dallaspopcorn.com
Tina Claflin - https://halcyonreflections.com/
Lily Dagdag and Patricia Talavera https://sytbiz.com
Anda Greeney - https://www.almokha.com
Angela McConnell - www. http://novavets.org
Kyle Chesnut decided to enter a market that has seen a flood of competitors over the last couple of years. What sets him apart from much of his competition is a genuine love of design and a steadfast attitude for success. Although he's relatively new to business he's not letting that slow him down one bit. In this episode we talk about what brought him into the Veteran apparel industry and where he's planning to take it.
Visit Kilo Charlie Clothing at www.kilocharlieclothing.com and at Facebook at www.facebook.com/kilocharlieclothing
Bunker Labs is a national not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization built by Military Veteran entrepreneurs to empower other Military Veterans as leaders in innovation. Through local chapters across the U.S., Bunker Labs provides educational programming, access to resources, and a thriving local network to help military veterans and their spouses start and grow businesses.
Emily McMahan launched Bunker Labs DC and is the Director of Capitol Post. After graduation from West Point, Emily was commissioned as a military police officer, and her military experience includes combat deployments supporting Operations Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, and Noble Eagle. Emily holds a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Virginia’s Darden School of Business and a Bachelor of Science degree from the United States Military Academy at West Point.
Seda Goff is the Director of Bunker Labs D.C. Prior to that, through Seda’s company Lighthouse Global Business, she worked with Bunker Labs companies as a consultant teaching lean startup and helping start founders map out their business ecosystem. Seda is a graduate of the University of Colorado at Boulder and holds an MBA from American University in Washington D.C.
The Muster DC 2018 ($10 off General Admission with Promo Code: AARMuster) https://nvite.com/MusterDC/32dgow Bunker Labs https://bunkerlabs.orgVeterans leaving the military with a desire to enter the world of business often have more motivation than they do starting points. The Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth University have a program that aims to bridge that gap for business minded Veterans leaving the military. Marine Veteran Jack O’Toole has been part of putting that program together and shares his insight into why this program might be a good for you. We also talk about the value of an MBA in today’s market where it seems like not only do many business professionals have one, but there is a vocal set CEO’s, business experts, and educators that are questioning the relevance and value of an MBA. We also talk about how his company, Fresh Air Sensor, is helping to keep the air in our public spaces clean and free of harmful pollutants and nasty irritants.
Cryptocurrency is hitting some serious HIGHS and some devastating LOWS which is bringing out investors and speculators from everywhere to try and make it rich. Some entrepreneurs see an opportunity to score that startup money, but is it an investment or a straight up gamble? Will Bitcoin open the doors of your small business or will it keep them shut?
Bitcoin: How Cryptocurrencies Work: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kubGCSj5y3k
Cryptocurrency White Paper: https://bitcoin.org/bitcoin.pdf
***SUBSCRIBE to The After Action Review Podcast***
Grunt Style was one of the first Veteran apparel companies to break into the mainstream and inspired countless Veterans to pursue their own entrepreneurship. Dan Alarik talks about how it all started, how it almost failed, and what makes Grunt Style the powerhouse it is.
Visit www.gruntstyle.com
In this episode we explore what happens when friendship and business mix, and the outcome isn't what was expected. Jimmy Burgess and Paul Volpe talk about their experience parting ways from a mutual business and the toll it had on their relationship. They also offer their advice to Veteran entrepreneurs considering going into business together.
Jimmy Burgess is the founder and director of True North Enterprises (TNE). You can find more information about TNE on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TNEleadership and on Instagram @TNEleadership
Paul Volpe is the founder and director of Forward March Inc. You can learn more about Forward March Inc on Facebook at www.facebook.com/forwardmarchinc
This is the audio version of my written blog post. You can find the original blog at www.medium.com/theaarpodcast
Chuck Luther is the Executive Director of Disposable Warriors, a non-profit organization that exists to help Active-Duty service members, Veterans, Retirees, and Reservists who have been inappropriately, unethically, or illegally discharged from the military under false pretense and without any of their rightfully-earned military benefits so that they may regain these earned benefits and, more importantly, so that they may regain their reputations and their honor. Through their subsidiary programs, they also assist homeless veterans, actively work to reduce veteran and service-member suicides, and we work with local law enforcement to provide resources and train responding officers in how to handle VIC (Veterans in Crisis) calls involving service members or veterans so that they avoid escalation and potential negative outcomes.
In this episode Chuck talks about the personal story that lead to his founding of Disposable Warriors as well as his insight into the murky world of Veteran non-profits.
Links www.disposablewarriors.com www.facebook.com/disposablewarriors www.noapologytees.com
Forward March, Inc. (FMI) is a Service Disabled Veteran-owned small business based in San Antonio, Texas. FMI was formed in 2013 by highly successful retired US Military Members and business professionals. Together they are committed to providing companies with outstanding military talent solutions and military styled leadership training unique in the industry.
Jimmy Burgess and I talk about how the tornado that ravaged Joplin Missouri and doing some heavy soul searching landed him working with FMI, helping bridge the gap between Veterans and industries.
Learn more about Forward March Inc by visiting their website at: www.forwardmarchinc.com or visit their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/forwardmarchinc
Don't forget to leave your comments below or visit The AAR Podcast at www.facebook.com/theaarpodcast
British Soldier and Veteran Entrepreneur Alex Miller joins me on the show to talk about Gen-Kit Exchange. We talk about his business of online kit buying and selling, the common thread of entrepreneurship that runs through Veterans, and his unique perspective on starting your own business.
Gen Kit Exchange is for soldiers and kit enthusiasts who spend too much time browsing kit online, who want a quick, reliable and hassle-free way to buy and sell personally owned military kit.
Visit Gen-Kit Exchange at: https://www.genkit.co.uk
Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to The AAR Podcast! Go to http://bit.ly/2wXEdz6 and subscribe to our YouTube page!
Grant Rogers is a former US Army Intelligence professional who's idea for the book "The Fire Within: Shedding Light on Trauma" is bringing the voice of PTSD right from the people who have lived through it.
In this full interview we explore the process of making an idea into a book, PTSD, and what it takes to overcome hardship.
Order your copy of "The Fire Within: Shedding Light on Trauma"
https://theaarpodcast.com/readinglist/ https://firewithin.online/ https://www.facebook.com/TheFireWithin22/
Also available on Amazon!
Patrick is a Marine Corps Veterans and one of the founders of Bastion Defense Solutions LLC. In this interview we talk about the challenges of starting a security company, overseas contracting, and how you can prepare yourself for a career in contracting if that's something your interested in.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BastionDefenseSolutions/
Patrick Rifino: prifino@bastiondefensesolutions.com
"Bastion Defense is an Evansville, Indiana based company, with zero foreign interest or ownership Bastion Defense is also a Veteran Owned Business (VOB)."
Brad Clark is a US Army Veteran and founder of Via Artisans, a craftsmanship company dedicated to bringing back bringing back the tradition and values of real American craftsmanship.
In this episode we talk about making your passion or hobby into a sustainable business. We also talk about the importance of legacy and how his business is fighting the IKEA trend of disposable furniture.
Visit Via Artisans at http://www.viaartisans.com/ Use Offer Code: "AAR" for 15%off your next purchase!
Combat Flip Flops has been featured on Shark Tank and their CEO's Matthew Griffin delivered one of the most memorable TED Talks in recent history.
One of the most remarkable things about Combat Flip Flops is the way they created a successful business around helping people.
Visit Combat Flip Flops and pick up some really cool flip flops, awesome stuff, and learn how you can help their cause!
https://www.combatflipflops.com
https://www.facebook.com/combatflipflops/
Got Your Six Coffee Co. (GY6CC) is passionate about helping veterans and others who put their lives on the line everyday to serve and protect us. Because of that a portion of all the profits from Got Your Six Coffee go to their non-profit, GY6 Foundation which has a primary mission to ‘serve those who serve’.
https://www.gotyoursixcoffee.com https://www.facebook.com/gotyoursixcoffee
Yves Domingo is a US Marine Corps Veteran and CEO of MYKE Media, a company specializing Internet marketing for the food and beverage industry.
In this hour we talk about the power of social media, emotional intelligence, and what takes to go from Military mindset to Sales mindset!
www.facebook.com/mykemedia www.mykemedia.com
Jon Santana DELIVERS for you Veteran entrepreneurs who want to get into the comic book industry BUT I have to emphasize here there are GOLDEN NUGGETS of info in this episode for ANYONE interested in starting a business. Do NOT miss this interview because you're not into comics! Trust me on this, you will NOT be disappointed.
Iron Age Comics is an independent comics publisher producing dynamic titles featuring various genres to include super heroes, science fiction, and supernatural thrillers.
Reach out to Jon and Iron Age Comics! Website: https://www.ironagecomics.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/IronAgeProductions Instagram: Iron_Age_CMX Twitter: @Ironageprod
David Bass is the Director of the Veterans Outreach for Texas chapter of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML), a trans-partisan, educational 501c4 nonprofit that focuses on cannabis law reform. Texas NORML’s mission is to change marijuana laws so that it reflects the majority opinion of Texans which is that the responsible use of cannabis by adults and patients should no longer be subject to penalty. Our focus is to increase public awareness of current laws regarding cannabis, as well as the legislative system and legislation regarding cannabis consumers in Texas.
You can reach David at dave@texasnorml.org Website: https://www.texasnorml.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TXNORML
Twitter: @ TexasNORML
Navy Veteran Leinani Davis of Menehune Soaps LLC joins me to talk about Soap, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and the challenges of that come with starting and running a soap business! It's a slippery slope as we talk soap on Episode 19 of The AAR Podcast!
Menehune Soaps will leave you clean and feeling as fresh as the island breeze!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/menehunesoaps/
Squareup: https://squareup.com/store/menehunesoaps
Instagram: Menehune_Soaps
Antonio Ruiz and Stephanie Solton, founders of Regroup 4 Vets join me to talk about some of the amazing changes that their non-profit organization has undergone since last year when I last spoke to them. Visit their links below and stay tuned for their crowdfunding campaign coming soon where you can help support this amazing organization.
ROI for watching this video is learning more about the non-profit process and how Regroup 4 Vets dealt with some of the challenges that arose as not only the organization grew but so did the scope of the mission. We also talk about the value of project management and how that applies to non-profits.
You can learn more about Regroup 4 Vets at:
Website https://www.regroup4vets.com
ReGroup LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/regroup-foundation
ReGroup Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ReGroupFoundation/?fref=ts Instagram https://www.instagram.com/regroup4vets/ ReGroup Twitter https://twitter.com/ReGroup4Vets
Daisson Hickel is an Active Duty US Army Special Forces Soldier and CEO of Java Can. The Java Can is the first all in one espresso kit which fits in a military ammunition can. The idea for The Java Can was conceived of on the dangerous and rugged mountain tops of Afghanistan and now The Java Can can go wherever your adventures take you. In this interview Daisson talks about what The Java Can means to him, his challenges and successes as a small business owner while also being an Active Duty Servicemember, and what lies ahead for his company.
If you want to learn more about The Java Can visit:
and follow the Instagram account at @thejavacan (http://instagram.com/thejavacan)
Facebook comedian Eazy Mac joined me on The After Action Review Podcast to discuss comedy, branding, why he does what he does. All that and more with this very talented and very funny guy!
Be sure to follow Eazy Mac on Instagram: @ilovemccullen and follow him on www.facebook.com/EazyMac12
While you're at it be sure to follow The AAR Podcast on Facebook and YouTube!
Episode 15 - McNeely Roya, Security Expert and CEO of Trishield Integrated Security, LLC joins me on The After Action Review The AAR Podcas to discuss ransom ware, cyber security, and why small business should be concerned
Contact McNeely Royal at: TriShield Integrated Security http://trishieldsecurity.com 1-888-800-3430
Amuse joins me to talk about comedy, branding, and being Facebook Famous
Links: https://www.facebook.com/Amused31 instagram @amuse31 www.shopamuseapparel.com Visit Amuse on YouTube!
Navy Veteran and aspiring writer Bia Brown joins me on The AAR Podcast. We talk about her experience writing her first short book and the lessons she's applying to her burgeoning writer career.
You can find her book "How To Be Charlie One" on Amazon
Be sure to follow Bia on: facebook.com/HowToBeCharlieOne Instagram: @HowToBeCharlieOne Blog: HowToBeCharlieOne.com Email: biabrown951@gmail.com
These amazing Veteran Athletes talk about Sponsorships, Veteran Athletes, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and MMA! Show your support for these Vet Athletes by visiting their Facebook Athlete pages and dropping them a Like! Also be sure to visit their sponsors and let them know you heard about them through their athletes on The After Action Action Review on Facebook!
Mitch Bruner @TheBodyMitchellBruner Erick Rodriguez @www.facebook.com/EricktheRedMMA
Athlete Sponsors Mitch & Erick - Twinwolves Martial Arts Academy Mitch & Erick - Illuminate 24 Hour Gym Mitch - RogueAmerican Apparel Mitch - Complete Nutrition Erick - @GWBOOCH (on Instagram)
Help Our Wounded (HOW) was founded by Rosie Babin in 2009 to help severely wounded service members, and those who care for them by providing direct aid, resources and support. While there are many resources for veterans, the needs of severely wounded veterans and their caregivers are more complex.
HOW acts as a resource for the emotional and medical challenges facing caregivers. In addition, they coach and educate caregivers and soldiers as they navigate the complex rules and paperwork required to obtain help from the DoD and other agencies.
Learn more by visiting www.helpourwounded.org
This episode I talked to Army Veteran Ryan Hunt, CEO of Mountain Up Apparel. Mountain Up is a Veteran apparel company that's redesigning how we view Veteran head gear. Taking it's inspiration from the spirit of the Army's 10th Mountain Division, Ryan's company continues to ascent to new heights from a sticker designed on a cell phone to a warehouse of merchandise and business partnerships. If you're thinking about starting your own line of Veteran apparel, Ryan might have some words of wisdom just for you.
I sat down with Veterans Michael Harris and Kevin McNease, moderators for the Facebook group Drinkin Bros Austin to talk about military humor, the VFW, and how a Facebook Group is bringing Veterans together.
This is definitely NSFW folks, you've been warned!
Click here to find out more about Drinkin Bros Austin
Antonio Ruiz and Stephanie Solton are the founders of the Regroup Foundation which is dedicated to creating self-sustaining ranches where Military Service Members/Veterans can live while they “ReGroup” to successfully reintegrate into civilian life. We talk about the challenges faced by Veterans during their transition period from the military, their organizations efforts to make their vision a reality, and how to come back from life's toughest challenges.
Learn more about the Regroup Foundation at www.regroup4vets.com and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ReGroupFoundation
Jamey Gadoury is a full time graduate level Christian Counseling Student and consultant in both the public and private sectors. He particularly enjoys working with organizations to problem-solve, build healthy teams, and develop leaders.
Jamey’s first career was as an Army infantry officer, where he experienced the challenges of crisis management and operating with ad hoc teams in Iraq and Aghanistan. After leaving the Army Jamey spent six years in the human capital development / talent management industry. He’s worked program management, curriculum development, creation of multi-media case studies, executive coaching, hiring panel consultation, developmental workshops, and longitudinal organizational interventions.
Anna Baker is a Texas native and former US Air Force cryptologist. In 1997, she got her bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Schreiner University and in 2012 received her MBA from Baylor. After 17 years in the corporate world, she co-founded Your Smart Closet with Casilda. Anna is also the Manager of the Women Veterans Program at the Texas Veterans Commission.
Casilda (Casi) Clarich is a Texas native and a University of Texas alum. She received her MBA from Baylor in 2012. With her extensive background in marketing and her life-long entrepreneurial spirit, Casi is the founder and CEO of Your Smart Closet. She also serves as Director of Marketing and Membership for the Greater Austin Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
Visit: www.yoursmartcloset.com
Coming off of National Guard Annual Training, didn't have a guest this week. So its just me for this one talking about my journey so far in business, podcasting, some upcoming projects. Its short...
Steven is a 13 year US Army Infantryman disabled Veteran who’s served as a Jump Master, Long Range Surveillance Team Leader, and Sniper Team Leader. He is the founder of Rescues 4 Warriors, a non-profit organizationthat funds adoption and training of shelter dogs for Veterans as companions and as service dogs. His story of finding his dog Django and their journey through healing is a true inspiriation.
I sat down with Luvina Sabree, US Army Veteran and owner of So Natural Organic Restaurant and Market. Great conversation about growing up in Chicago, the challenges of being a Muslim business owner on top of being a Veteran, and her recent television debut on Kitchen Impossible! It was a great talk despite the audio issues.
Visit: http://www.sonaturalmarket.com
My guest is the founder of Veterans Jiu Jitsu and a Marine Corps Veteran, Joey Zente. For many Veterans trying to find a new purpose is hard enough without the added stress of trying to integrate into civilian life. Joey uses Brazilian Jiu Jitsu to help Veterans find a reason for fitness as well as creating an environment where any Veteran can feel at home. Always FREE and it's come as you are.
I sat down with Mike Allred, owner and head coach at SICFIT Round Rock in Round Rock TX. Mike has been a close friend since we first started working together as contractor for the same company and I've had the privilege of watching this gym grow from an idea to its grand opening. We got to talking about the fitness industry, some of the ways this gym came together and some of the challenges involved with having land lords. Mike is a 10 year Veteran of the United States Marine Corps and his made his passion for fitness into his business.
NOT AN INTERVIEW BUT AN INTRODUCTION TO WHAT THIS PODCAST IS AND WHERE IT'S HOPEFULLY GOING. IT'S NOT A "MUST LISTEN" TO EPISODE SO IF YOU WANT TO SKIP IT YOU CAN...BUT DON'T. MADE RIGHT IN MY KITCHEN JUST FOR YOU, THAT'S WHY YOU HEAR A LITTLE ECHO, SORRY ABOUT THAT. ENJOY!
Our TOPPODCAST Picks 
