On this episode we interview Justine Evirs, Founder & CEO of The Paradigm Switch.

Justine has commitment issues, as in, she continually finds problems that she feels compelled to solve, a mindset which serves as the foundation of her entrepreneurial journey. Justine joined the Navy after High School, an experience which she says was based out of a desire to explore and travel. While in the Navy, she attended college, becoming the first in her family to graduate from college. As a Sailor, she would go on to work in non-classified jobs which allowed her to realize things that she did not want to do. While serving, she unfortunately ran into medical issues which would eventually lead to her discharge. On her way out of the military, she made the important decision of going to school which led her to two things her eventual post military career in education as well as to meeting her significant other. Justine continued her service after her stint in the military by becoming a military spouse. While being a military spouse, and working in Academia, these experiences prompted her to begin her journey towards starting and being involved with organizations that give back to the Veteran community. Specifically, while working in Academia in Silicon Valley, Justine identified that one of the largest contributors has created the Paradigm Switch to offer Military Spouse with skills based scholarships.

Justine discusses that one of the most important things is that if you a problem that is bother you because you feel that you have both the experiences and skillset to solve it, you should go for it. We also talk about breaking out the mold, and how the creative process can allow you to attack a problem as creatively as possible. On a more practical note, aspiring Entrepreneurs should not make the jump too early if they aren't ready. As huge proponent of learning through experience, she says that entrepreneurship is can be best exemplified by the the example that if you think you want to start a bakery but have never worked in a bakery....you should probably go work in a bakery. 

Justine is also the regional director of Bunker Labs for the West Region of the United States. A true believer in the Bunker Labs mission, Justine has found a sense of purpose and community while serving veteran entrepreneurs through connecting them to resources that they need to be successful. We discuss the success of Bunker Labs, and also dissect the world of non-profits and how they work.

Justine's recommended book(s) is: Traction by Gino Wickman (how to handle all of the crazy variables associated with running a company), Social Startup Sucess by Kathleen Janus (how to create a resilient non-profit).

We hope you enjoy this episode. You can find Justine Evirs on LinkedIn as well as https://www.theparadigmswitch.org/.