DogTags to Ownership

Summary:

Lieutenant General (Retired) Donna Martin discusses her military career, her transition to civilian life, and her current work with Securing Our Children's Future. She emphasizes the importance of mentorship, resilience, and faith in overcoming challenges throughout her journey. The conversation explores the journey of LTG (R) Donna Martin, focusing on her experiences in the Army, the challenges of leadership, and her transition to nonprofit work addressing food insecurity among children. It highlights her insights on organizational change, the importance of mentorship, and the correlation between nutrition and learning outcomes for children.

Takeaways:

• Importance of mentorship
• Resilience through challenges Leadership in challenging times
• Impact of nutrition on learning

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction to LTG(R) Donna Martin
• 02:54 Journey into the Army
• 06:06 Becoming a Military Police Officer
• 09:07 Leadership and Command Experience
• 12:06 Pivotal Moments in Career
• 14:47 Navigating Challenges as a Leader
• 17:50 The Role of Faith in Leadership
• 21:09 Embracing Change and Responsibility
• 24:13 Reflections on Military Service and Legacy
• 33:50 Perceptions and Leadership Challenges
• 40:55 Transitioning from Military to Nonprofit
• 44:42 Closing

Resources:

• Support our community and purchase from an amazing businesses on https://forcesbrands-usa.com/ for the #ReplaceOneChallenge
• We are a proud member of Heroes Media Group 
• Check us out on Wreaths Across America Radio on Thursday mornings at 7 am.

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

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Summary:

In this conversation, Jimmy Burroughes shares his journey from being a UK Army officer to becoming a leadership consultant and founder of JBL High Performance. He discusses the challenges of transitioning from military to civilian life, the importance of transferable skills, and his experiences in the digital nomad lifestyle. In this conversation, Jimmy Burroughes discusses his consulting methodology, 'Simplify to Amplify,' which aims to help organizations overcome business friction and improve performance. He emphasizes the importance of diagnosing underlying issues rather than simply providing training, and shares insights on his experiences working with various companies globally.

Takeaways:

• Transitioning requires transferable skills
• Burnout can lead to new opportunities Simplify to Amplify methodology
• Focus on diagnosing issues

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction to Jimmy Burroughes
• 02:12 Military Experience and Transition
• 10:09 Navigating Civilian Life
• 16:28 Burnout and the Digital Nomad Lifestyle
• 23:02 Advice for Veterans and JBL Overview
• 26:09 Rowing in Different Directions
• 29:13 Targeting Mid-Sized Businesses
• 32:43 Advisory vs. Training Approach
• 36:15 Engagement Structure and Delivery
• 40:34 Advice for Transitioning Entrepreneurs
• 43:42 The Importance of Reflection
• 45:00 Voices of Freedom 250 founder Sir Billy Doresy Jr.

Resources:

• Support our community and purchase from an amazing businesses on https://forcesbrands-usa.com/ for the #ReplaceOneChallenge
• We are a proud member of Heroes Media Group 
• Check us out on Wreaths Across America Radio on Thursday mornings at 7 am.

Support the show

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

Follow us on Social Media 

Instagram/Facebook/Threads: @dogtags_to_ownership

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Matt and Julie recap the month of October and discuss what we learned from our amazing guest this month!

The episode also includes the amazing Trish Leto and she discusses UGC and marketing strategy for businesses.

Summary:

In this episode, Jose shares his inspiring journey from overcoming trauma and addiction to creating Warrior Dog Spirits, a brand that honors service dogs and supports veterans. Discover how storytelling, resilience, and community impact are woven into his mission.

Takeaways:

• Storytelling can be a powerful tool for healing and connection.
• Service dogs play a crucial role in veteran recovery.
• Creating meaningful brands involves personal stories and symbolism.
• Entrepreneurship can be a form of therapy and purpose.

Chapters:

1. Introduction to Jose's Journey and Warrior Dog Spirits
2. The Impact of Trauma and the Role of Service Dogs
3. Storytelling as a Healing Tool and Brand Foundation
4. Innovative Use of Technology to Share Service Dog Stories
5. The Whiskey Distilling Process and Product Development
6. Symbolism in the Whiskey Bottle and Brand Design
7. Distribution, Sales, and Community Support
8. The Foundation's Mission and Future Goals
9. Reflections on Help, Resilience, and Giving Back

Resources:

• Support our community and purchase from an amazing businesses on https://forcesbrands-usa.com/ for the #ReplaceOneChallenge
• We are a proud member of Heroes Media Group 
• Check us out on Wreaths Across America Radio on Thursday mornings at 7 am.

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

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Summary:

Leadership, transition, and building AI systems that actually help veterans

Julie Austin and Matt Cain talk with Adam Peters, former Army infantryman, host of the Strategic Veteran Podcast, and founder of Studio Zero. The conversation centers on military transition, identity loss after service, and how Adam is using AI to build business systems and create new opportunities without adding payroll. In this episode, Adam shares the hard lessons from combat, medical retirement, a painful post-service reset, and the pivot that followed a transformational plant medicine experience in Peru. He also explains why he believes the future of veteran transition is entrepreneurship, mentorship, and practical AI tools.

Key  Topics:

• Veteran transition challenges and solutions
• The role of purpose, identity, and community in military transition
• How AI and automation can empower entrepreneurs
• Adam Peters' journey from military to AI innovator
• The importance of habits and mindset in success

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Adam Peters and his background
02:02 Military journey and transition out of service
09:03 Challenges in veteran transition and finding purpose
16:48 Transformational experience in Peru and spiritual insights
22:24 Reflections on combat deployments and mental health
36:46 Building a new identity and purpose post-military
44:37 AI and automation as tools for entrepreneurship
50:59 Final thoughts and Forces Brands USA Business of the Week 

Action items:

• Identify one skill, interest, or business idea that could become your next path.
• Audit your current routines and environment for clutter, friction, and wasted energy.
• If you are a transitioning service member, seek honest conversations with people who have already walked the path.
• Explore AI as a practical business tool, not just a trend.
• Take ownership of your identity, purpose, and community before chasing the next job.

Resources:

• Support our community and purchase from an amazing businesses on https://forcesbrands-usa.com/ for the #ReplaceOneChallenge
• We are a proud member of Heroes Media Group 
• Check us out on Wreaths Across America Radio on Thursday mornings at 7 am.

Support the show

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

Follow us on Social Media 

Instagram/Facebook/Threads: @dogtags_to_ownership

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Summary:

In this episode, Ramon Preez shares his journey from military service to successful distillery owner, highlighting how military skills translate into entrepreneurship, the challenges of scaling a craft business, and strategies for community engagement and growth.

Key  Topics:

• Military skills translating to entrepreneurship
• Starting and scaling a distillery
• Product development and flavor innovation
• Community engagement and marketing strategies
• Challenges of competing with larger brands
• Resilience and perseverance in business
• Distribution and retail strategies
• Leveraging word-of-mouth marketing
• Balancing production and customer relationships

Chapters:

1. Introduction to Ramon's Military and Entrepreneurial Journey
2. Transition from Military Service to Starting a Distillery
3. Self-Directed Transition and Passion for Spirits
4. Learning the Craft of Vodka Making
5. Choosing Florida for Business and Community Focus
6. Challenges of Competing with Larger Brands
7. Skills from Military Service That Helped in Business
8. Resilience and Owning Your Life After Service
9. Product Range and Distribution Strategy
10. Development of Unique Flavors like Blueberry Vodka
11. Innovative Product Ideas and Unique Liqueurs
12. Creating a Tasting Room Experience
13. Marketing and Customer Engagement Strategies
14. Expansion Plans and Out-of-State Sales
15. Inspiration and Advice for Entrepreneurs
16. The Importance of Perseverance and Resilience
17. Closing Remarks and Support for Local Business

Resources:

• Support our community and purchase from an amazing businesses on https://forcesbrands-usa.com/ for the #ReplaceOneChallenge
• We are a proud member of Heroes Media Group 
• Check us out on Wreaths Across America Radio on Thursday mornings at 7 am.

Support the show

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

Follow us on Social Media 

Instagram/Facebook/Threads: @dogtags_to_ownership

TikTok: @dogtags_to_ownership

Support the show

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

Follow us on Social Media 

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Summary:

Hard Truth Rods, Navy Service, and Building Purpose Through Fishing

Glenn Cook, founder of Hard Truth Rods, shares how a Navy career, a health scare, and a chance connection through a custom fishing rod led him into handmade rod building. Julie Austin and Matt Cain talk with Glenn about military life, small batch craftsmanship, and how fishing became both a creative outlet and the foundation for a new purpose. This episode blends personal story, veteran camaraderie, and entrepreneurship. Glenn also explains how custom rods have supported nonprofit fundraisers, including a Three Rangers Foundation event, and why he believes business should be driven by purpose first.

Key Topics:

• Glenn Cook explains how he went from Iowa to the Navy at age 20, first training as a sonar technician before cross-rating into the Seabees.
• Glenn shares the unusual path that took him from military service to plumbing, pipefitting, and eventually running a transportation program at the Omaha VA.
• The conversation covers a brain health scare that led to medical testing, anxiety medication, and a period of reflection that changed his routine and priorities.
• Glenn describes how a Tenkara fly rod, originally sitting unused in his truck, pulled him back into fishing and gave him a better headspace.
• He explains how he went from fishing with that rod to researching rod building, buying materials, and accidentally launching Hard Truth Rods.
• Glenn recounts building a custom rod for Jeff McCabe of Hard Truth distilling, matching the rod’s epoxy and thread work to the bottle label and branding.
• Julie asks about Glenn’s first customers and nonprofit work, and Glenn explains that his early rods went to himself, his son, friends, and local supporters.
• Glenn shares the story of a Three Rangers Foundation fundraiser where his rod sold for $10,000 and connected him with Medal of Honor recipients and major donors.

Chapters:

1. 00:00 - Introduction to Glenn Cook and Hard Truth Rods
2. 01:34 - Joining the Navy at 20 and choosing sonar technician
3. 03:44 - Discovering the Seabees and cross-rating
4. 05:57 - Family Navy history and why he enlisted
5. 10:26 - Returning to Iowa and starting civilian trades work
6. 11:18 - Apprenticeship, VA work, and leading a veteran team
7. 13:27 - The health scare that changed everything
8. 17:01 - Tenkara fishing becomes the turning point
9. 22:19 - First rods, first users, and early confidence
10. 24:06 - The Three Rangers Foundation auction story
11. 30:20 - The meaning behind hidden messages in the epoxy
12. 37:13 - Business advice: follow purpose, ask questions, stay authentic
13. 40:03 - Forces Brands USA Business of the week 

Resources:

• Support our community and purchase from an amazing businesses on https://forcesbrands-usa.com/ for the #ReplaceOneChallenge
• We are a proud member of Heroes Media Group 
• Check us out on Wreaths Across America Radio on Thursday mornings at 7 am.

Support the show

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

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Summary:

This episode recaps the month of September and features a series of insightful interviews with military veterans and entrepreneurs, sharing their journeys, challenges, and successes in business and mental health advocacy. Discover practical lessons on resilience, entrepreneurship, and community impact.

Chapters:

1. 00:00 Introduction to the episode and guest overview
2. 03:04 Recap of Tampa craft spirit event and key takeaways
3. 07:01 Interview with Michael Starr of Blazing Star Barbecue
4. 14:55 Lessons on passion, failure, and pivoting in business
5. 20:11 Discussion with Jeff Bones Bonner on military transition and aviation
6. 25:11 The importance of daily debriefs and habit formation
7. 29:56 Dr. Ariel Jordan on mental health support and her nonprofit work
8. 34:01 Justin and Misty Williams of Bombshell Suds and product collabs

Support the show

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Summary:

Justin and Misty Williams share their journey from military service to founding Bombshell Suds, a handcrafted soap business. They discuss their transition from military to civilian life, building a brand rooted in authenticity, and future growth plans.

Key Topics:

• Military transition and entrepreneurship
• Building an authentic brand
• Product development and expansion
• Grassroots marketing strategies
• Veteran community collaborations
• Future growth and business goals

Chapters:

1. 00:00 Introduction to Justin and Misty Williams
2. 4:45 Military backgrounds and transition stories
3. 5:42 Creating Bombshell Suds and initial product ideas
4. 9:24 Product scents and formulation process
5. 10:11 Collaborations with other veteran and community businesses
6. 17:17 Goals for business expansion and future products
7. 28:24 Advice for veterans considering entrepreneurship
8. 30:14 The importance of small victories and daily routines
9. 33:13 Closing thoughts and future plans

Resources:

• Bombshell Suds Co - https://bombshellsudsco.com/
• Support our community and purchase from an amazing businesses on https://forcesbrands-usa.com/ for the #ReplaceOneChallenge
• We are a proud member of Heroes Media Group 
• Check us out on Wreaths Across America Radio on Thursday mornings at 7 am.

Support the show

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

Follow us on Social Media 

Instagram/Facebook/Threads: @dogtags_to_ownership

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Summary:

In this episode, Dr. Arielle Jordan shares her inspiring journey from military service to mental health advocate and entrepreneur. She discusses her work with veterans, trauma therapy, and founding The Jordyn Effect nonprofit, offering valuable insights into mental wellness and healing.

Key Topics:

• Military transition and mental health challenges
• Trauma therapy and EMDR techniques
• Founding and mission of The Jordan Effect nonprofit
• Resources and programs for veteran mental wellness
• The importance of community and connection in healing

Takeaways:

• Treat people well and focus on genuine connection.
• Find passion in your work and let it fuel your impact.
• Normalize conversations about mental health and seeking help.
• Use resources like vocational rehab to support education and career goals.
• Healing from trauma involves understanding and addressing systemic issues.

Chapters:

1.  Introduction to Dr. Arielle Jordan and her background
2.  Military service and transition out of the Army
3.  Educational journey and shift to psychology
4.  Starting her business and nonprofit ventures
5.  Mental health resources for veterans and systemic challenges
6.  The role of EMDR in trauma healing
7.  Building the Jordan Effect nonprofit and community impact
8. The importance of therapist-client fit and communication
9.  Advice for veterans and entrepreneurs
10.  Final thoughts and resources for mental wellness

 Resources:

• Connect with Dr. Arielle Jordan - https://www.ariellenjordan.com/
• Support our community and purchase from an amazing businesses on https://forcesbrands-usa.com/ for the #ReplaceOneChallenge
• We are a proud member of Heroes Media Group 
• Check us out on Wreaths Across America Radio on Thursday mornings at 7 am.
• Attend the C.R.A.F.T. event in Tampa. 

Support the show

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

Follow us on Social Media 

Instagram/Facebook/Threads: @dogtags_to_ownership

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Support the show

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

Follow us on Social Media 

Instagram/Facebook/Threads: @dogtags_to_ownership

X: @DTO_Podcast

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