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In Episode 46 of DogTags to Ownership, Julie and Matt sit down for a rapid-fire recap of Episodes 43–45—three conversations packed with wisdom, grit, and real-world strategies for turning service into success. We revisit the game-changing insights from Waza Media, the powerful story behind the Trauma Brace App, and the practical lessons, tips, and entrepreneurial takeaways that every veteran business owner can use today.

Julie and Matt also look ahead to what’s next for DogTags to Ownership, including the partnerships, sponsorships, and strategic vision that will shape 2026 and beyond. If you’re a veteran, military spouse, supporter, or aspiring entrepreneur, this episode connects the dots and sets the tone for the next chapter of our mission.

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In this episode of DogTags to Ownership, Julie and Matt sit down with Air Force navigator turned serial entrepreneur Vivek Shah — a powerhouse behind multiple successful ventures. From owning three Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids franchises to co-founding the Trauma Brace app, serving as a franchise advisor for Franzy, and launching Trajectory Holdings, Vivek’s entrepreneurial journey is nothing short of inspiring.

Vivek shares how his father, who immigrated from Kenya to South Carolina and built multiple businesses from the ground up, sparked his passion for entrepreneurship. He dives into how lessons in networking, communication, and community connection shaped his approach to leadership and business growth.

If you’re a transitioning service member, a veteran entrepreneur, or simply someone looking to turn your experience into ownership, this episode is packed with insight on how to take flight beyond the uniform and chart your own trajectory.

Looking to get into Franchising look no further than Franzy - https://franzy.com/

Suffer from trauma or know someone that does check out the Trauma Brace app - https://www.traumabrace.com/

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In this episode, Army veteran Chas Sampson, founder and CEO of Seven Principles, shares how his own experiences inspired him to create a company dedicated to helping veterans receive the benefits they’ve earned through service.

In this engaging conversation, Chas Sampson, a US Army veteran and NFL agent, shares his journey from military service to entrepreneurship. He discusses the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, the influence of family on his career choices, and the founding of Seven Principles, a company dedicated to helping veterans navigate the VA claims process. Chas elaborates on the growth of his business, the importance of marketing strategies, and the evolving role of VSOs in supporting veterans. He also touches on his philanthropic efforts, his recent venture into sports management, and the innovative 7Principles app designed to assist veterans. Throughout the discussion, Chas emphasizes the significance of personal values, work-life balance, and the need for more representation of women in sports management.

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In this episode of DogTags to Ownership, we sit down with Alex Milner and J.R. Arce, founders of Waza Media, to explore their journey from serving as Public Affairs Officers in the military to becoming the driving force behind one of the most data-driven marketing agencies in the game.

Alex and J.R. share how their time in uniform shaped their leadership and communication skills — and how they now use that experience to help businesses grow through strategic, analytics-backed marketing. From crafting high-quality lead funnels to boosting conversions and maximizing ROI, Waza Media is proving that the precision and discipline of military service can redefine success in the business world.

Whether you’re a veteran entrepreneur looking to scale your brand or a business owner ready to turn your marketing into measurable results, this conversation delivers insights, strategy, and inspiration.

 Tune in and learn how to apply mission-driven leadership to your marketing strategy — and why data, storytelling, and purpose are the new keys to growth.

Check out Waza Media at https://waza.media/

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In this episode of Dog Tags to Ownership, hosts Matt Cain and Julie Austin recap episodes 39 to 41, highlighting the journeys of veterans who transitioned from military service to entrepreneurship. They discuss the insights shared by guests Greg Povenski, Eva Fulton, and Jeff McCabe, focusing on themes of leadership, resilience, and the importance of community support in navigating the challenges of starting a business after service. The conversation emphasizes the value of military experience in entrepreneurship and the significance of owning one's narrative in the journey of personal and professional growth. 

This episode also includes bonus content with Giuseppe Grammatico who shares his insights on franchise ownership, particularly for veterans transitioning to civilian life. He discusses his personal journey into franchising, the unique advantages veterans have in this field, and the importance of understanding risk and community support. Giuseppe emphasizes the need for aspiring franchise owners to find the right fit and navigate the franchise process with informed decisions. He also highlights the significance of having a strong 'why' behind entrepreneurship and the value of open communication with family during this journey.

You can reach out to Giuseppe at https://ggthefranchiseguide.com/ for more information on finding the right franchise for you.

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In this episode Matt and Julie sit down with Jeff McCabe - U.S. Naval Academy graduate, Navy Pilot, and owner of BWQOHT, INC. Jeff shares how the precision, pressure, and purpose of military aviation shaped his path into entrepreneurship. 

From leadingin the skies to building a business on the ground, Jeff breaks down the mindset, mistakes, and mission focus that fuel his success. 

He dives into:

- Transitioning from military service to business ownership

- Building BWQOHT, INC with intent and integrity

- Lessons Learned from risk, resilience, and responsibility

If you're navigating your next chapter or looking for an edge in leadership and ownership, Jeff's story delivers the inspiration and insights you need.

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In this powerful episode of DogTags to Ownership, Julie and Matt sit down with Eva Fulton - U.S. Army Desert Storm Veteran, entrepreneur, author, filmmaker, songwriter, and podcast host. Eva shares how her military experience shaped her resilience and creativity, and how she now uses her voice to uplift and connect others through storytelling. From building businesses to creating films and hosting multiple podcasts, including one with the Military Broadcasting Radio, Eva reveals how she turned her diverse passions into impactful platforms. Tune in for inspiration on transforming military lessons into entrepreneurial success and leaving a legacy through art, media, and service. 

Check out My People Garden at: https://www.amazon.com/Welcome-People-Garden-Exploring-Relationships-ebook/dp/B0F9TZCPN8?ref_=ast_author_mpb

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In this conversation, Gregory Povenski, a US Army Special Forces veteran, shares his journey from military service to entrepreneurship through acquisition (ETA). He discusses his military background, the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, and the importance of education in his career. Gregory emphasizes the value of military experience in business, particularly in leadership roles, and explores the growing field of ETA, offering insights and advice for veterans interested in pursuing this path. He also highlights resources available for learning about ETA and the importance of networking within the community.

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In Episode 38 of DogTags to Ownership, Julie and Matt sit down to recap the powerful lessons shared in Episodes 35–37. From Gerry of RedBeard Solutions and his blueprint for building a “Destination Employer,” to Dan Clare of Disabled American Veterans highlighting resources and opportunities for veterans, to Leroy Brown’s inspiring journey from Marine to therapeutic artist—this recap ties it all together.

But that’s not all—this episode also brings bonus content with Charity Brown, founder of The Happy CEO. Charity shares her mission of helping leaders align business growth with personal fulfillment, offering actionable tips for veterans and entrepreneurs ready to thrive in both life and business.

Tune in for a mix of reflection, strategy, and inspiration that will keep you motivated on your path from dog tags to ownership.

Find more information on Charity Brown and the Happy CEO at https://charitybrown.biz/

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In this episode of DogTags to Ownership, we sit down with retired U.S. Marine Leroy Brown, the creative force behind Leroy Brown Art. Leroy shares how he leveraged his military benefits to earn a degree in entrepreneurship and how he transformed his love of painting into both a passion and a business.

From the discipline of the Corps to the freedom of the canvas, Leroy opens up about the therapeutic power of art, the lessons he carried over from service into entrepreneurship, and how creativity can become a path to healing and purpose.

 Tune in for inspiration, practical insights, and a story that proves your second chapter can be your most colorful one yet.

Check out Leroy Brown Art at https://leroybrownart.com/

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