On this episode of The Other Side of Service, Brian Basham sits down with Army veteran and entrepreneur Aaron Barnes, founder of Compact Care.

After serving in the U.S. Army from 2009 to 2017 in communications and intelligence roles, Aaron experienced firsthand the challenges soldiers face in tough environments where even basic hygiene can be difficult. Instead of accepting the problem, he turned it into a solution.

Aaron shares the story behind Compact Care, a veteran-owned company creating portable hygiene products designed for soldiers, first responders, outdoor workers, and anyone operating in rugged conditions.

In this conversation, Aaron and Brian talk about military service, the transition to civilian life, the challenges of starting a business, and how the lessons learned in uniform can fuel innovation and purpose long after service ends.

It’s a powerful reminder that sometimes the next mission begins after the uniform comes off.