The ROAR Podcast Series

The First Million is Always the Hardest – From the Marines to the Mats: Marcos Estrada on Veterans, Valor & the Power of Ownership


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Bo Kemp, host of “The First Million is Always the Hardest” podcast and “First Million Mondays” heard on the Wintrust Business Lunch with John Williams on WGN Radio – photos Sara Altwal

In this powerful and purpose-driven episode, host Bo Kemp sits down with Marcos Estrada Sr., U.S. Marine veteran and co-founder of Valor Jiu-Jitsu, to shine a spotlight on one of America’s most undervalued entrepreneurial assets: military veterans. Bo and Marcos explore how the discipline, leadership, and resilience forged in military service uniquely prepare veterans to thrive as entrepreneurs — especially in an economy ripe for generational transition. Together, they unpack an exciting new vision: creating veteran-led cohorts of Entrepreneurs through Acquisition, helping veterans acquire existing small businesses as Baby Boomer owners retire — keeping companies alive, jobs intact, and wealth in motion.

https://serve.castfire.com/audio/7814913/7814913_2025-11-14-170413.64kmono.mp3

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

  • Marcos’ personal story: from his early childhood to the Marine Corps, and ultimately launching Valor Jiu-Jitsu to build confidence and community through martial arts
  • How military skills translate into entrepreneurial advantage
  • The challenges veterans face when transitioning to civilian and corporate life — and why business ownership may be a better fit
  • Bo’s work with the Southland Development Authority (SDA) to develop a veteran-centered business acquisition pipeline
  • The deeper mission behind Valor: to empower people—especially youth—with the mental strength, discipline, and camaraderie found in jiu-jitsu
  • This episode is a tribute to the power of service, strategy, and second acts. If you’re a veteran, builder, investor, or someone passionate about preserving America’s small business backbone — this is a must-listen.

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