Service Academy Business Mastermind

Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/

Want to join us in San Antonio, TX on June 11th & 12th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events

____

Mike Brumagin is a U.S. Army veteran, West Point graduate, and co-founder of Battle Monument Group, a private real estate investment firm specializing in single-tenant net lease properties. After earning the Bronze Star for his leadership during Operation Desert Storm, Mike spent over a decade building and managing national restaurant franchises before shifting his focus to real estate.

At Battle Monument Group, he has led the acquisition of more than 100 properties across 20 states, primarily focused on mission-critical retail tenants like Dollar General. Through eight successful fundraises—entirely through relationships with veterans, advisors, and private investors—Mike has built a model centered on trust, long-term value, and predictable cash flow.

His approach reflects a disciplined commitment to stable, income-producing assets in underserved markets, with a long-term vision to scale the portfolio beyond 500 properties. Mike and his team are positioning BMG for a strategic REIT exit while continuing to support investors who value transparency, alignment, and operational excellence.

In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Mike about:

• From Army to Arby's: Mike's path from West Point and Desert Storm to leading major restaurant franchises.
• Real Estate Pivot: Co-founded Battle Monument Group, focusing on single-tenant net lease properties like Dollar General.
• Predictable Profits: Built a niche strategy around stable, high-yield corporate leases in rural America.
• Investor-Led Growth: Raised eight funds through trusted relationships with veterans and advisors—no institutional capital.
• Scaling for Exit: Targeting 500+ properties to position BMG for REIT acquisition or strategic sale.

Timestamps:

• 01:03 Mike's Background and Career Journey
• 02:38 Transition to Real Estate: Battle Monument Group
• 03:18 Franchise Ventures and Personal Anecdotes
• 04:25 Battle Monument Group's Strategy and Growth
• 08:16 Fundraising and Investor Relations
• 12:35 Wealth Advisory Groups and Investment Strategies
• 24:30 Delaware Statutory Trusts (DSTs) Explained

Connect with Mike:

• LinkedIn
• Email: [email protected]
• Battle Monument Group

If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today.

Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show:

• Apple Podcasts
• Spotify
• Leave us a 5-star review!

A special thank you to Mike for joining me this week. Until next time!

-Scott Mackes, USNA '01

Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/

Want to join us in San Antonio, TX on June 11th & 12th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events

____

Patrick E. Alcorn is a business strategist, veteran, and leadership coach committed to empowering entrepreneurs and organizations. As Director of the Veterans Business Outreach Center, he supports military-connected business owners at every stage of growth.

A former combat engineer and West Point graduate, Patrick applies strategic thinking and leadership to drive economic development and innovation. He founded Business Beyond the Battlefield Conference to foster community and provide resources for veteran entrepreneurs navigating business ownership. As a Maxwell Leadership Certified Coach, he mentors executives and emerging leaders, helping them advance into senior roles. Through his work, Patrick is reshaping perceptions of veteran entrepreneurship and highlighting the impact of veteran-led businesses on the economy and local communities.

In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Patrick about:

• Empowering Military Entrepreneurs: Business Beyond the Battlefield Conference provides education, inspiration, and networking for veteran business owners.

• Expanding Veteran Business Outreach: Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC) offers free business resources to veterans across Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Nevada.

• Changing the Narrative: Advocating for veterans as leaders, innovators, and economic drivers beyond their military service.

• Scaling Through Sponsorship: Seeking a title sponsor to expand Business Beyond the Battlefield.

• Coaching Future Leaders: Maxwell Leadership-certified coaching helps professionals transition into executive roles.

• Building a Lasting Legacy: Positioning Business Beyond the Battlefield for long-term success under a nonprofit.

Timestamps:

• 01:06 Military Background and Family

• 01:53 Entrepreneurial Journey

• 02:11 Business Beyond the Battlefield Conference

• 05:28 Conference Evolution and Impact

• 12:48 Changing the Veteran Narrative

• 19:17 Coaching and John Maxwell Affiliation

• 22:45 Goals and Future Plans

Connect with Patrick:

• LinkedIn

• Email: [email protected]

• Change the Narrative video: (HERE)

• Business Beyond the Battlefield Conference (BBBC)

• BBBC Sponsorship Opportunities

• Veterans Business Outreach Center Program

• Patrick E Alcorn Executive Coaching

If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today.

Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show:

• Apple Podcasts

• Spotify

• Leave us a 5-star review!

A special thank you to Patrick for joining me this week. Until next time!

-Scott Mackes, USNA '01

Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/

Want to join us in San Antonio, TX on June 11th & 12th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events

____

Schuyler Williamson is an accomplished leader with a background in business, real estate, and mentorship. A West Point graduate and former college baseball player, he brings a competitive mindset and strategic approach to every endeavor. As the founder of Williamson Group Real Estate, he has built a thriving business as a real estate professional, investor, and entrepreneur.

As the author of The Steady Leader, Schuyler shares his expertise in leadership and personal development. Passionate about mentorship, he volunteers with SCORE Mentors to guide entrepreneurs and supports individuals with cognitive disabilities at Marbridge. He also speaks on leadership, business strategy, and resilience, helping others navigate challenges with confidence. Today, Schuyler is focused on expanding his business, mentoring the next generation of leaders, and continuing to make an impact.

In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Schuyler about:

• From West Point to Real Estate Leader: Schuyler's journey from baseball player and military officer to building a thriving real estate business.
• The Power of Letting Go: Why handing off operations to the right leaders is key to business growth and personal freedom.
• Leading with Stability: The Steady Leader—Schuyler's book on leadership models that drive long-term success in business.
• Scaling with Strategy: How EOS, Profit First, and 90-day planning drive success in his businesses.
• Turning Problems into Opportunities: How a vacant retail space led to launching a thriving laundromat franchise.

Timestamps:

• 01:28 Entrepreneurial Ventures in Austin
• 03:28 The Laundromat Business Model
• 06:09 Leadership and Delegation
• 09:54 Vision and Planning for Growth
• 15:21 The Steady Leader: Book Inspiration
• 21:57 The Essence of Brotherhood and Purpose
• 22:22 Spiritual Health and Leadership
• 22:56 Writing as a Gift to the World
• 23:25 A Leader's Journey: From Military to Business
• 25:57 The Transition to Real Estate
• 28:57 Learning the Math of Real Estate
• 29:35 Starting a Real Estate Team
• 31:07 The Entrepreneurial Model
• 32:59 Vision and Execution
• 36:54 The Importance of Vision and Planning

Connect with Schuyler:

• LinkedIn
• Email: [email protected]
• https://www.wgrouprealestate.com/

If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today.

Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show:

• Apple Podcasts
• Spotify
• Leave us a 5-star review!

A special thank you to Schuyler for joining me this week. Until next time!

-Scott Mackes, USNA '01

Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/

Want to join us in San Antonio, TX on June 11th & 12th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events

____

Claude Burns is a visionary entrepreneur, veteran, and startup founder transforming the workplace food and beverage industry. A former Navy Officer, he brings a mission-driven approach to leadership, strategy, and innovation.

As the Founder and CEO of Office Libations, he is redefining B2B food service with a tech-driven model that optimizes inventory, reduces costs, and enhances service. Competing with industry giants, Office Libations has rapidly expanded operations across multiple markets, serving Fortune 500 firms and high-growth startups with a seamless, scalable solution. By combining technology with hospitality, Claude has built a company that delivers both efficiency and exceptional service, reshaping how businesses approach workplace amenities.

With a strong foundation in operations and business growth, he is leading Office Libations toward national expansion, setting a new standard in workplace hospitality and industry innovation.

In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Claude about:

• Revolutionizing Office Hospitality: Blending technology, efficiency, and premium service to transform workplace perks.
• Thriving Through Uncertainty: Overcoming the loss of 95% of revenue and staff, making tough decisions, and rebuilding through resilience and innovation.
• Taking on Industry Giants: Competing with legacy providers by delivering smarter, tech-driven solutions.
• Fueling Fortune 500 Workplaces: Providing top-tier coffee, snacks, and drinks to leading companies.
• Scaling for Impact: Expanding into new markets and redefining the future of workplace amenities.

Timestamps:

• 00:17 Reflecting on the Past: January 24th, 2020
• 01:13 Introduction to Office Libations
• 02:30 Impact of the Pandemic on Business
• 03:35 Surviving the Gauntlet: Strategies and Adaptations
• 08:16 Rebuilding and Innovating Post-Pandemic
• 14:11 Future Goals and Expansion Plans
• 23:51 Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

Connect with Claude Burns:

• LinkedIn
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: https://officelibations.com/about-us/

If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today.

Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show:

• Apple Podcasts
• Spotify
• Leave us a 5-star review!

A special thank you to Claude Burns for joining me this week. Until next time!

-Scott Mackes, USNA '01

Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/

Want to join us in San Antonio, TX on June 11th & 12th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events

____

Corey Reiser is a former Army Artillery Officer, real estate investor, and founder of School of Grit. A Division I lacrosse player at the U.S. Military Academy, he built the discipline and resilience that shaped his career. After leaving the military, Corey applied those same principles to real estate, creating a successful portfolio and achieving financial freedom at a young age.

Through School of Grit, he shares hard-earned lessons on mental toughness, self-reliance, and overcoming obstacles. Whether leading in the Army, competing on the field, or navigating business challenges, he believes in pushing limits and learning through experience. Outside of work, Corey enjoys traveling and seeking out new challenges that expand his perspective.

In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Corey about:

• From Military to Mission: Corey's transition from a 10-year military career to founding the School of Grit.

• Fixing a Critical Gap: How the lack of financial education in the military inspired a mission to empower veterans.

• More Than Just Money: Teaching financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and the power of living with purpose.

• AI Meets Ambition: How ChatGPT and visualization techniques helped turn dreams into reality.

• Manifesting the Dream: The incredible story of how Corey's vision led him to buy the perfect farm.

• The Grit Factor: How mindset, resilience, and education pave the way to financial freedom and fulfillment.

Timestamps:

• 00:32 Corey's Background and Journey

• 01:46 Founding the School of Grit

• 08:22 Core Values and Pillars of School of Grit

• 13:09 Leveraging AI for Goal Setting

• 16:21 Visualization and Achieving Goals

• 35:42 Connecting and Learning More

Connect with Corey Reiser:

• LinkedIn - Corey Reiser

• Email: [email protected]

If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today.

Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show:

• Apple Podcasts

• Spotify

• Leave us a 5-star review!

A special thank you to Corey for joining me this week. Until next time!

-Scott Mackes, USNA '01

Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/

Want to join us in San Antonio, TX on June 11th & 12th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events

____

David Baska is a dynamic leader with expertise in operations, finance, and strategic planning. As Chief Operating Officer at Swift Brands, he spearheads the company's mission to revolutionize military-branded apparel and the broader apparel industry through innovative technology and U.S.-based on-demand manufacturing. A former officer in the U.S. Air Force, David served in space and military operations, earning honors such as the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, and later contributed as a program manager in the U.S. Space Force. An academy graduate and former collegiate baseball player, he brings a strong foundation in leadership and teamwork to his professional endeavors. David's passion for innovation and dedication to excellence continue to drive meaningful advancements across industries, leaving a lasting impact.

In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with David about:

• The Vision for Swift Brands: Revolutionizing apparel with a vertically integrated tech and e-commerce platform.

• Innovative Solutions: Addressing supply chain issues with U.S.-based on-demand manufacturing for youth sports, schools, and military sectors.

• David's Journey: From academy grad and baseball player to leader of Swift Brands and MadeinVSA.com.

• Simplifying Customization: Empowering schools, military units, and affinity groups to create and manage custom apparel lines effortlessly.

• Challenges and Future Goals: Tackling industry obstacles and aiming for impactful milestones in 2025.

• Ways to Collaborate: Opportunities to partner with Swift Brands and connect with David for support.

Timestamps:

• 00:25 Overview of Swift Brands

• 03:23 Understanding VSA and Its Market

• 09:46 Military Market and Vision

• 18:06 Future Goals and Challenges

Connect with David :

• LinkedIn - David B.

• www.madeinvsa.com

If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today.

Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show:

• Apple Podcasts

• Spotify

• Leave us a 5-star review!

A special thank you to David for joining me this week. Until next time!

-Scott Mackes, USNA '01

Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/

____

With 33 years of experience, David Chepauskas specializes in solving problems and maximizing opportunities for senior Wall Street professionals, business owners, executives, and retirees. He is a partner at Summit Financial LLC, a leading independent financial planning firm serving the NJ Tri-State area. David is passionate about working with veterans and service academy graduates, leveraging his network to help them achieve their business goals and build meaningful relationships. His expertise spans retirement, estate, insurance, investment, and income tax planning. David's goal is to provide tailored financial strategies to meet the unique needs of his clients. He enjoys connecting people and fostering professional connections that lead to growth. David's deep knowledge and personal approach have made him a trusted advisor in his field.

Show Notes:

In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with David about:

• The Unique Focus of David's Firm: Tailored wealth-building strategies for academy graduates and veterans.

• Private Markets: The benefits of private equity, private credit, and private real estate, including higher returns and lower volatility.

• Portfolio Allocation: Why diversification is key to successful wealth management.

• Advanced Tax Strategies: Insights into tax-loss harvesting and direct indexing.

• Charitable Giving: Using philanthropy as a tool for managing high income and capital gains.

Timestamps:

• 00:49 Introducing the Unique Approach of Summit Financial

• 04:02 Diving into Private Market Investments

• 09:52 Understanding Portfolio Allocation

• 14:42 The Benefits and Drawbacks of Private Investments

• 21:50 Exploring Tax Loss Harvesting Strategies

• 31:15 Charitable Giving and Estate Planning

Connect with David :

• LinkedIn - David C.

• http://www.summitfinancial.com

If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today.

Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show:

• Apple Podcasts

• Spotify

• Leave us a 5-star review!

A special thank you to David for joining me this week. Until next time!

-Scott Mackes, USNA '01

Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/

____

Sean Mullin is an award-winning filmmaker known for his feature film debut, AMIRA & SAM, which won multiple film festivals and was distributed by Drafthouse Films. He co-wrote and co-produced SEMPER FI with Oscar-nominated director Henry-Alex Rubin, and produced ALLEGIANCE, both of which saw theatrical releases. Sean directed the documentary KINGS OF BEER and IT AIN'T OVER, the highest-grossing theatrical documentary of 2023, about baseball legend Yogi Berra. A former Army officer and first responder on 9/11, Sean holds an MFA from Columbia University and a B.S. from West Point. He is represented by UTA and runs Five By Eight Productions in Los Angeles.

In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Sean about:

• Filmmaking with Sean Mullen: From West Point to filmmaking
• Family Influence: How Sean's entrepreneurial roots shaped his creative vision.
• Notable Projects: It Ain't Over, the West Point rugby doc, and working with Buzz Aldrin's family.
• Building Five by Eight Productions: Growing a successful production company.
• Creative Wisdom: Sean's advice on chasing passion and making it in the film world

Timestamps:

• 00:08 Sean's Unique Career Path
• 01:59 Early Influences and Creative Upbringing
• 04:24 Military Service and Transition to Filmmaking
• 08:18 First Feature Film: Amira and Sam
• 10:56 Documentary Journey: Kings of Beer and It Ain't Over
• 15:40 Current Projects and Teaching
• 25:07 Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers

Connect with Sean

• LinkedIn

Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show:

• Apple Podcasts
• Spotify
• Leave us a 5-star review!

A special thank you to Sean Mullin for joining me this week. Until next time!

- Scott Mackes, USNA '01

Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/

____

Michael Euperio - Michael is the Chief Operating Officer at Redeem Investments, overseeing operations for a firm specializing in commercial real estate and renewable energy projects. His military background has shaped his leadership style, emphasizing discipline, strategic thinking, and adaptability. Michael values strong teams and strategic partnerships, which are central to his work at Redeem. As a founder and managing principal at K2DM Capital, he focuses on multifamily real estate investment. His approach prioritizes collaboration, integrity, and innovative strategies to achieve shared success.

Christian Catron - Christian Catron has over 20 years of healthcare experience and has transitioned into real estate investment, specializing in strategic redevelopments and adaptive reuse projects in high-growth markets. As a co-founder of a visionary real estate firm, he collaborates with Michael, a seasoned professional in high-tech and private equity. Together, they transform underutilized properties in the Texas Triangle into high-demand assets aligned with emerging market trends. Drawing on their backgrounds as West Point graduates and veterans, Christian and Michael emphasize integrity, excellence, and strategic partnerships. Christian's expertise lies in navigating complex transactions and maximizing returns through innovative renovations. He welcomes connections with professionals passionate about real estate innovation, healthcare, or veteran initiatives.

Transforming Real Estate: Michael and Christian's Vision for Purpose-Driven Projects

• Shared Vision: How Michael and Christian's paths crossed at a West Point real estate conference.

• Innovative Strategy: Repurposing vacant offices for medical use based on market trends.

• Notable Projects: Converting an office building into a Marriott and a Best Buy into a medical center.

• Mission-Driven Growth: The role of relationships in their sustainable real estate approach.

• Get Involved: Opportunities for brokers, investors, and developers to join their mission.

Timestamps:

• 00:27 How We Met and Became Business Partners

• 03:50 Our Real Estate Journey and Redeem Investments

• 05:10 Pivoting to New Opportunities

• 07:43 Case Studies and Success Stories

• 21:47 Future Goals and Vision

• 24:32 How You Can Help and Get Involved

Connect with Michael & Chris :

• LinkedIn - Michael E.

• LinkedIn - Christian Catron

• https://redeeminvestments.com/

If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today.

Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show:

• Apple Podcasts

• Spotify

• Leave us a 5-star review!

A special thank you to Michael and Christian for joining me this week. Until next time!

-Scott Mackes, USNA '01

Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/

Want to join us in Tampa on January 28th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events

____

Michael Mandarino is a seasoned financial advisor with over 20 years of experience in investment advisory and financial planning. As the owner of 123 Investing LLC and CEO of Soterios LLC, an SDVOSB, he specializes in faith-based investing, tax-advantaged strategies, retirement planning, and charitable giving solutions. Michael is dedicated to serving transitioning military officers, religious organizations, charities, and small businesses, offering expertise in planned giving and biblical-responsible investing. A West Point graduate and former U.S. Army Platoon Leader, Michael collaborates with CPAs and Enrolled Agents to ensure comprehensive financial oversight. His work has been featured in Proactive Advisor Magazine, and he educates others about investing through his YouTube channel.

MIchaal Mandarino's Securities & Investment Advisory Services are offered through G.A. Repple & Company, a Registered Broker/Dealer & Investment Advisor Member FINRA & SIPC, 101 Normandy Road Casselberry, FL 32707 T. 407-339-9090.

The Vision Behind Faith-Driven Finance: Turning Experience into Purposeful Wealth Strategies

• Michael's Journey: From West Point graduate and Army Platoon Leader to financial advisor in 2002.
• A Faith-Driven Mission: How a pivotal moment in 2012 led to specializing in biblical-responsible investing.
• Serving Veterans: Helping service members navigate military benefits and transitions.
• Expanding Expertise: Assisting high-net-worth clients with complex tax strategies and capital gains planning.
• Educational Impact: Growing a YouTube channel to 55,000+ subscribers with compliant financial content.
• Future Growth: Mentoring junior advisors and acquiring books of business to expand his practice.

Timestamps:

• 00:47 Michael's Background and Career Journey
• 02:37 Finding a Niche in Financial Advising
• 05:35 Faith and Business: A Unique Approach
• 09:48 Short and Long Term Goals
• 13:11 The YouTube Endeavor
• 19:47 Challenges and Support

Connect with Michael

• LinkedIn
• Facebook
• YouTube
• 123-Investing
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone or text: (813) 710 - 4123

If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today.

Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show:

• Apple Podcasts
• Spotify
• Leave us a 5-star review!

A special thank you to Michael Mandarino for joining me this week. Until next time!

-Scott Mackes, USNA '01