Podcasts about corporate membership

In the premiere episode of our Coaching as a Leader podcast series, host Simone Sweeney talks to coach, supervisor and author Jen Kidby, and AC Head of Corporate Membership and Accreditation, Victoria Leith, to discuss the important topic of leader as coach and the launch of the AC's new book: Coaching as a Leader. Together, they share the inspiration behind the book and explore why coaching skills are now essential for leaders navigating today's complex, people-centred workplaces. Designed to set the stage for the series, this conversation offers a compelling introduction to the evolving role of leadership in driving culture, engagement, and performance through coaching. Jen and Victoria delve into the core themes of Coaching as a Leader, including the shift from directive, top-down management to a more collaborative, coaching-led leadership style. They highlight how key coaching competencies—such as emotional intelligence, active listening, and self-awareness—are crucial for fostering trust, clarity, and resilience within teams. The episode also offers practical guidance for leaders looking to integrate a coaching mindset into their everyday practice. Jen and Victoria emphasize the importance of aligning these skills with organizational values and strategy to create lasting impact, and the growing trend of coaching as an essential component of organizational culture post-pandemic. An inspiring conversation for leaders of any level, as well as the coaches supporting them in our ever-changing world.  You will learn:   ·       Coaching-oriented leadership fosters stronger, more supportive organizational cultures. ·       Core coaching skills—like self-awareness, active listening, and emotional intelligence—are vital for effective modern leadership. ·       Aligning coaching practices with organizational purpose enhances both individual and business performance.   “They're realizing that coaching is becoming a must, with people and strategies. Companies that are focusing on coaching cultures see a higher engagement, for various different things like innovation and retention.”   Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave us a review! Your feedback helps us bring you more valuable content.   For the episode resources and guest bio, please visit:  https://www.associationforcoaching.com/page/dl-hub_podcast-channel-coaching-as-a-leader-coaching-skills-leadership-book

Matthias discusses the new KuppingerCole Membership program with Vanessa Schweihofer and Alexei Balaganski. They explore the various benefits of the Membership, including access to research, networking opportunities, and personalized insights through inquiry calls and workshops. The conversation highlights the technological advancements being integrated into the Membership, such as AI capabilities and a passwordless registration process. The importance of community building and continuous improvement in cybersecurity and identity management is emphasized, along with the advantages of Corporate Membership for teams.

Matthias discusses the new KuppingerCole Membership program with Vanessa Schweihofer and Alexei Balaganski. They explore the various benefits of the Membership, including access to research, networking opportunities, and personalized insights through inquiry calls and workshops. The conversation highlights the technological advancements being integrated into the Membership, such as AI capabilities and a passwordless registration process. The importance of community building and continuous improvement in cybersecurity and identity management is emphasized, along with the advantages of Corporate Membership for teams.

Sherman Williams & Emily McMahan - Academy Investor Network, Helping Service Academy Graduates Invest in Venture-backed Startups Sherman Williams is a Naval Academy graduate. After serving as a Naval Intelligence Officer, he headed to Chicago's Booth School to study finance and landed himself in investment banking. While in banking he started investing and advising startups. This was a perfect segue to co-founding Academy Investor Network. Emily McMahan is a WestPoint Academy graduate. After her time in the Army as a Military Police Officer, she has always been focused around community and working with entrepreneurs. She has a passion to work with startup companies and founded Capitol Post, which taught military veterans how to start and grow businesses, a great foundation for beginning the Academy Investor Network. She is also the Deputy Director at the Common Mission Project, an international platform supporting mission-driven entrepreneurs. Academy Investor Network Academy Investor Network was founded in 2020. From Sherman's and Emily's own academy experience they personally saw the unique population that made up the graduates. They wanted to offer an investment syndicate for U.S. Service Academy graduates to invest in venture-backed startups. “We enable every Service Academy graduate to connect, learn and invest in the venture asset class.”  Learn More Sherman Williams Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherman-williams/ Emily McMahan Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilymcmahan/ Academy Investor Network LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/academy-investor-network/ Website: https://academyinvestor.com/ Twitter:  https://twitter.com/AIN_members   VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you.    by VeteranCrowd Network Why do thousands of merchants put us through a bootcamp to join their loyalty program? Why do they make checkout an obstacle course? It's embarrassing. Time consuming. Intrusive. Cumbersome. Broken. Why? Because no one ever built a simple & secure way to validate our veteran status at checkout. Until now. Want to be recognized at select merchants simply by swiping your existing Visa card? Join our waitlist and be one of the first veterans to have this power in your wallet. About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.  

Entrevista com Karen Ottoni, senior director of ecosystem & strategic iniatives at Hyperledger A newsletter com tudo:

High Reliability, The Healthcare FM Podcast is brought to you by Gosselin/Martin Associates. Our show discusses the issues, challenges, and opportunities within the Healthcare Facilities Management (FM) function.Today, we present two conversations we conducted with Adam Mayle,  Administrative Director of Facilities, Memorial Regional Hospital (Hollywood, FL), and President of the Florida Healthcare Engineering Association (FHEA) and Dann Boyer, Director of Facilities Operations at Sturdy Health (Attleboro, MA) and Membership Chair at the New England Healthcare Engineers Society (NEHES).In this episode, we first hear from Adam. Prior to delivering our presentation "The Healthcare Facility Professional's Toolbox," we sat down to speak with Adam at FHEA's Fall Conference. We covered much ground, including:* Rebuilding membership post-Covid;* How FHEA networking helped to solve a state-wide oxygen issue;* Camaraderie among healthcare facility management professionals;* The impact that heavy employee workloads are having on Engineering Chapters.Then, we hear from Dann, who joins us to discuss the challenges and opportunities of recruiting new members to Affiliated Chapters. Dann describes the benefit of NEHES' new Corporate Membership initiative and details his "big hairy audacious goal" for NEHES.  Contact me if you are in an Engineering Chapter and want to record an episode. The Healthcare Facilities Network is willing and looking to promote the excellent work Chapters perform. As always, thank you for listening.Subscribe to the Healthcare Facilities NetworkCheck us out at https://gosselin-associates.com

What are the competitive advantages of being a digitally enabled organisation? This week on the IMI Talking Leadership podcast, we are joined by Fiona O'Carroll, who recently held a Leadership Webinar as part of IMI's Corporate Membership offering, to take a closer look at the dualities of digital.   Fiona is a globally recognized expert on digital mindset, digital transformation and eCommerce. She is a senior international executive with a 25-year track record of achievement in a variety of leadership roles. This conversation was recorded on July 13th, 2022.

If the digital revolution has well and truly arrived, why are some organisations still living in the past?   This week on the IMI Talking Leadership podcast, we are joined by Professor Alan Brown, who recently held a Mini-Masterclass as part of IMI's Corporate Membership offering, to dive deeper on the dilemmas of digital.   Alan is a university professor, researcher, coach and trusted adviser to start-ups and established organisations across the public and private sector. His work is focused on leading agile approaches to business transformation.  This conversation was recorded on June 29th, 2022.

Monica Fullerton - Creating an Online Market Place for Military & First Responder Families Monica Fullerton got her Masters and planned to pursue a job as a news anchor, but as an Air Force spouse that was not an easy career path to navigate. Instead Monica found work with a logistics company. It provided the ground work for her entrepreneurial journey. Monica has had an entrepreneurial spirit her whole life, but was waiting for the right business idea that provided purpose. She had an epiphany while riding in a car with some fellow spouses about the amount of talent spouses have to offer from things they make to the services they provide. Unfortunately military spouses are often underemployed or can't find employment due to the military lifestyle.  With that motivation, Spouse-ly was born.  Spouse-ly Spouse-ly is an online marketplace where you can shop for products and services all created by military or first responder families. Monica likens it to “Etsy” and“ Angie's List” colliding with a purpose of supporting our nation's heroes. This platform provides a place for spouses to create and earn money in the midst of the demanding lifestyles. Monica has hit the ground running, she was named “a Trailblazer in Tech by Military Spouse Magazine, Forbes Next 1000 List, and recently named on the MIGHTY 25 list as one of the most influential leaders supporting the military community.” Learn More www.spouse-ly.com FB: fb.com/spousely Instagram: @spouse.ly VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you. About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.

Matt Butler - Air Force Veteran, Inventor of Rollors, an Award Winning Outdoor Yard Game  Matt didn't plan to spend a career in the Air Force, but after 9-11, he felt called to continue serving past his initial 4 year commitment. He spent his career flying surveillance aircraft all over the world. It was during one of his many deployments that the idea for Rollors was sparked. Often during deployments you think of home, family and friends. Matt was thinking of Minnesota and his desire for friends and family to hang out and socialize. When he got back state-side he began working on a prototype and people started to get interested. He sold his first 50 sets and realized he might have started something. Matt would tell you his experience in the Air Force has helped him as an entrepreneur and when he has time he loves to pass that knowledge along to other veteran entrepreneurs. Rollors Started with a desire to get people together, off their phones and enjoying the outdoors, Rollors has done that and more. Rollors is a mash up of other traditional games like Bocce Ball, Bowling and Horseshoes. It takes the best parts of those and adds in easy transport and set up. Rollors is an award-winning and unique game that is sure to be a hit at your next outdoor gathering or family event.  Get one today! Check out who else has stepped into the Veteran Crowd Spotlight.  Learn More www.rollors.com FB: fb.com/rollors Instagram: @rollors VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you. About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.

Cameron Cruse - Cofounder of R. Riveter, Making Handbags to Hire Military Spouses Due to her husband's military orders, Cameron Cruse landed herself in the middle of nowhere Georgia in 2011. She had just graduated with her Master's in architecture but the hopes of building that career slowly faded. Soon after, Cameron met Lisa Bradley, her now business partner. Together they realized the challenge that they faced, finding meaningful employment as a military spouse. They knew this challenge was not unique to them.  They set out to build a company that would first provide some kind of income opportunity to military spouses, R. Riveter was born. R. Riveter The mission came first and the product was decided afterwards. And today R. Riveter has grown its network of spouses or “Riveters” that are employed across the United States. Together they started created handbags, but that has grown to candles, gifts and more. They even offer an “heirloom” collection to transform your old military uniform, blanket or something else into a beautiful memory bag. In 2015 they opened a storefront in North Carolina. Shortly after they were featured on Shark Tank where they were able to gain an investor. The company continues to scale and grow to ultimately hire more military spouses.  Check out who else has stepped into the Veteran Crowd Spotlight.   Learn More www.rriveter.com FB: @rriveterbags Instagram: @rriveterbags   VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you.   About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.

Don Bentley - New Book Release...Former Apache Helicopter Pilot, Now New York Times Best Selling Author Don Bentley was previously a guest on the VeteranCrowd spotlight, but is back to share the releases of two new books. Don Bentley has loved writing since he was a little kid. He started working on his first book in 3rd grade. In high school, his English teacher told him he had talent, but he wasn't quite ready to pursue writing full-time. Instead he landed himself at Ohio State working on an Electrical Engineering degree. Winning an Army ROTC scholarship, Don commissioned and became an Army Apache helicopter pilot, following his family's legacy of serving. This was just the first of many careers. Following his time in the military Don worked as an FBI Special Agent and eventually was a member of the Dallas Office Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team. After law enforcement Don continued to work with several companies that develop technology for the U.S. Special Operations Community. Author Don's entire career helped shape and mold him into the writer he is today. His characters are born out of his own experiences and those he served with. He is the author of the Matt Drake thriller series, including Without Sanction and The Outside Man. The most recent one, Hostile Intent was just released this month.  Don was also asked to write a Tom Clancy Jr. book, Target Acquired landing himself on the New York Times best selling list. The next in this series, Zero Hour, comes out the first week of June. Newest Books Hostile Intent, available now.  Zero Hour, coming June 7th                                          Check out who else has stepped into the Veteran Crowd Spotlight.  Learn More Twitter: https://twitter.com/bentleydonb FB:https://www.facebook.com/bentleydonb https://donbentleybooks.com/ VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you. About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.

Emily Miller and Kim Jung went to the West Point Military Academy, they were eventually connected to Keith Alaniz, a Texas A&M graduate while stationed at Ft. Leonard Wood. They served in Afghanistan together as Combat Engineers and eventually their friendships led to to founding Rumi Spice. Their time in Afghanistan and working with the Afghan people, gave them an idea for creating “sustainable rural economic development in Afghanistan and providing countless jobs to Afghan farmers and women who harvest and process the spice.” Rumi Spice Founded in 2014, Rumi Spice hit the ground running with their mission of providing a market for Afghan saffron. They work directly with close to 1000 Afghan farmers to provide the world's highest quality saffron. Three years after their inception they appeared on Shark Tank, which opened doors to continue grow and expand their market. They are currently sold nationwide and are the first nationally distributed product from Afghanistan. Interested in trying out some spices?  Check them out below. Learn More Website:  https://www.rumispice.com Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/rumispiceco Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/rumi_spice VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you. About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.  

Daniel started his military service in the Army. After over 28 years serving he retired from the United States Marine Corps. During the transition into the civilian world, he knew he wanted to “chart his own course”. He utilized the program boots to business, an entrepreneurial education program for transitioning service members.  At the time popcorn wasn't on the horizon. He was looking to use his experience as a combat cameraman to launch a real estate photographer business, but as he pursued this he knew it wasn't the right path.  In the meantime some close friends encouraged both he and his wife, Priscilla to contact a fellow veteran, who owned a popcorn store owner in Fredericksburg, VA. It was through this mentorship they were able to launch Popcorn Friday.  Between Daniel's passion and Priscilla's, personal finance background and BS in Business Management they have continued to persevere through the challenges of being entrepreneurs and found great success. Popcorn Friday The name was inspired by a PTA event at Crossroads Elementary on Marine Corps Base, Quantico. Priscilla had volunteered when the kids were young and the name stuck in her head. So when the business was launched there was no question what it would be named. Popcorn Friday opened its doors in 2014 in Spring Branch, Texas. Just a few years it began being sold online, which paved the way for the success they have achieved today. They offer a wide variety or popcorn flavors from savory to sweet and anything in between. Interested in trying some out for your own popcorn Friday, fundraising need or your next corporate event. Check them out below. Learn More Website: https://www.popcornfriday.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PopcornFridaySanAntonio Instagram:  @popcorn_friday VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you. About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.

Lynn was serving overseas, in the Army when he first began writing. He had travelled to Greece for fun and decided to write an article about his time there. He submitted it to the military newspaper, Stars and Stripes. They decided to publish it. He continued to write about his travels while overseas but decided he didn't want to stop as he was transitioning out of active duty.  Now over 40 years later, Lynn continues to travel with his wife, Cele. Together they have now co-authored two books. Lynn began to delve into writing fiction not too long ago and just signed a deal for the sequel to his first fiction novel. Books & Articles Lynn and Cele Seldon have published hundreds of articles in magazines such as Cruise Travel, Southern Living and Trailblazer and continue to do so. Lynn published his first novel, Virginia's Ring in 2014 and the sequel, Carolina's Ring is in the works. In addition together Lynn and Cele have written 100 Things to Do in Charleston Before You Die and 100 Things to Do in Savannah Before you Die. If you are traveling soon, check out their website and publications! Learn More Website: SeldonInk.com LinkIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynnseldon/ VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you. About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.  

Robert Garland grew up listening to his dad tell stories and knew he wanted to follow in his footsteps serving as a police officer and then detective. Robert spent 14 years in the NYPD retiring as a decorated detective. He started Fund the First in 2020 when he wanted to help a close friend with medical expenses from his daughter's rare illness. This experience showed him there were problems with the current crowdfunding sites and Robert wanted to build a better one. Fund the First Fund the First has a unique partnership with ID.Me. This allows donors to know that their money is going to a true, honest and verified source. Fund the First has launched 350 fundraisers and their campaigns have raised almost four million dollars in donations. Learn More Website: fundthefirst.com Robert Garland: rgarland@fundthefirst.com; 201-431-5685 LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertgarland27/ VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you. About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.  

Mike Cantwell is a United States Naval Academy graduate. After serving in the Navy, he has continued his career of service as a federal government employee at the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency. It was the presidential elections of 2016 that led Mike to dive into politics and ultimately begin his journey as a political reformist. He has even thrown his hat in the ring of candidates and ran for the Arlington County Board.   He knows that our political system is broken and the way to fix it is at the state level. Two key components he feels are vital; Rank Choice Voting and Final Five Voting. These issues are multi-partisan and can help create better elections across the whole system. Mike has been involved with Fair Vote Virginia and also Veterans for Political Innovation. Both these organizations have a passion for political reform at the grassroots level. Fair Vote Virginia "We're a single issue, local chapter of the national FairVote movement, a non-partisan, non-profit champion of ranked choice voting. Our members cover the entire political spectrum and come together from across the Commonwealth, united by a shared mission to revive real, representative democracy." Veterans for Political Innovation Their mission is to “make our political system less toxic and more competitive by mobilizing military veterans to fight to preserve democracy through election innovations.”  Learn More LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/michael-cantwell-9bb5282/ Campaign Website:  www.cantwell4countyboard.com Fair Vote Virginia:  www.fairvoitvirginia.org Veterans for Political Innovation:  www.veteransforpoliticalinnovation.org VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you. About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.  

Owen Waits has a long family history of military service. It was a natural choice to attend West Point. Upon graduating he was commissioned and served for more than eight years in the Army before joining J.P. Morgan. He is currently an Associate Banker in the Atlanta, Georgia office of J.P. Morgan Private Bank, where he serves high net worth individuals across their entire balance sheets and provide “boutique white glove” service. He especially likes working with veterans who have transitioned into business leadership. Veteran Advocate When transitioning from the Army to a the civilian sector Owen realized the challenges of translating his time in the service to civilian related work. He attended the UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School which provided a great network to help with this transition as he earned his MBA. He has a passion to help others transition smoothly from service to a civilian job. J.P. Morgan has their own forum to connect service members; “Voices of Employees That Served (VETS) which Owen is a part of. J.P. Morgan has hired over 16,000 since 2011. He also volunteers as a transition coach with the Four Block Foundation. Learn More LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/owen-waits/ Email: owen.c.waits@jpmorgan.com Carry the Load event in Georgia: https://www.carrytheload.org/site/DocServer/Georgia_NC_2022.docx__2_.pdf Four Block Foundation: https://fourblock.org/ VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you. About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.  

How can an effective storytelling strategy bolster an organisation's position in the market and deliver positive returns for the bottom line? Eric Fitzpatrick is a business storytelling coach who helps clients to shorten, sharpen and strengthen their message and increase their chances of getting clients to act on or buy into that message. In this week's episode, Eric joins us to explain how leaders can make their story stand out in a crowded and rapidly evolving business landscape. This past year, as part of our Corporate Membership offering, Eric delivered a Webinar session on 'Storytelling - Rules for Exceptional Communication'. This conversation was recorded on February 18th, 2022.

Joshua Hood grew up loving books. Some of his earliest memories were listening to his dad read, “The Hobbit”. He remembers the pictures he would paint in his head as the words were read. Joshua graduated college with an English degree, but didn't immediately put that degree to use. He decided to serve in the 82nd Airborne Division. It was during a deployment that the ideas for a book were beginning to form, but he pushed the idea of becoming an author away. It took a former fellow solider he served with publishing his own book that compelled Joshua to do the same. After the Army, Joshua continued serving on the SWAT team in Memphis, Tennessee. It wasn't until about five years ago, after his son was born, that he become a full-time author. Both his combat and SWAT experiences have laid the groundwork for the stories he continues to write. Books Joshua Hood is the USA Today and Publishers Weekly Bestselling Author of The Treadstone Series, Clear by Fire and Warning Order. The latest Treadstone book, The Treadstone Transgression is set to release 4/5.  You won't want to miss this international thriller. Find at your local bookstore or online at Amazon. Learn More Website: www.joshuahoodbooks.com Facebook:  www.facebook.com/joshuahoodbook VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you. About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.

Carl and Lori met while Carl was serving in the U.S. Army. He enlisted at the age of 17 and retired in 2006 as a Lieutenant Colonel after serving 21 years. Not long after retirement, Lori was running a successful corporate massage therapy business and Carl was a partner in the tech world. They both already had an entrepreneurial spirit and they wanted to do something different. Carl was driven to build a company that could give back specifically to the veteran community but also beyond. They were inspired by their brother-in-law. At the time he had recently won “roaster of the year” in his hometown in Washington state. Being avid coffee drinkers Carl tossed the idea out to start a coffee business. Lori agreed and they dove right into growing an online coffee business out of their basement in 2010 and Alpha Coffee was born. Alpha Coffee Awesome coffee that gives back! One of Alpha Coffee's primary focus is giving back. It gives back at least 10% of all profits to non-profits focused on veterans, the planet, and community.  They regularly donate coffee to troops with over 20,000 bags of coffee sent to date. Alpha Coffee has grown from $17k in revenues its first year to over $2.4M this past year. It has two brick and mortar locations in Utah, Big Cottonwood Canyon and West Jordan, with a third coming to downtown Salt Lake City.  They are also currently working on building a distribution center. Looking to support this amazing veteran owned business? Alpha Coffee is available online for subscription or individual purchase. It also is available via Amazon Prime and will soon be on Walmart.com.   Learn More Website:  www.alpha.coffee Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bejetclean/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6-y2wMNk24Fi-J2qbTTYQA VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you. About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.

  Ryan grew up watching his dad fly fighter jets. At the time he didn't know that he'd end up following in his footsteps, but the events of 9-11 solidified his desire to serve. Ryan flew the F-15E, but also spent a tour flying the Thunderbirds. He traveled the world to showcase the Air Force's “pride, precision and professionalism” through air shows and flyovers. Even during his active duty career Ryan was pursuing entrepreneurship. Originally he helped found, Flying Scarfs, a nonprofit offering an online market for Afghan products to help women in Afghanistan create an income in 2011.  This endeavor also gave him the passion to make sure all “profits had purpose”. Be Jet Clean Be Jet Clean was originally thought of during a deployment to Afghanistan. His fellow flight-mates had the same dislike for their current grooming products. Ryan didn't like that his research showed him that “mainstream soaps have the same ingredients as car wash soaps.” Upon returning from this deployment he set to work creating over 2,000 products in his kitchen with the help of his now, co-owner, Dale Wood. When those items sold in just 3 months they knew they were on to something. Be Jet Clean continues to have the mindset of “profits for purpose” as they give 10% to help support and empower other veterans and veteran service organizations. If you listened to the podcast and are curious about Ryan's call-sign of “Neo”, check out the origins here. Learn More Website: www.bejetclean.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bejetclean/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6-y2wMNk24Fi-J2qbTTYQA VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you. About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.

As organisations and their HR functions reach a critical juncture, how can leaders bring purpose and meaning to their employees and create a human-centered business that generates lasting results? Ben Whitter, an international keynote speaker and one of the world's top management thinkers by Thinkers50, joins us this week on the podcast to chat through the dilemmas leaders face and what practical steps they can take to adjust to the new world of work. This year, as part of our Corporate Membership offering at Transform level, Ben delivered a People Strategy Network session on 'Co-Creating the Future of Work and HR Through the Holistic Employee Experience'. This conversation was recorded on March 2nd, 2022.

Eric graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1997. He served eight years as a Naval Flight Officer. After service he built a successful real estate business. But, in early 2019 Eric served as board president for “Show Me Integrity”, a political reform organization. This became the springboard to combine his interest in politics and military service to found the nonprofit, Veterans for Political Innovation in 2021. Veterans for Political Innovation Their mission is to “make our political system less toxic and more competitive by mobilizing military veterans to fight to preserve democracy through election innovations.” To accomplish this, VPI is focused on supporting the following nonpartisan innovations: Top Five Open Primaries, Ranked Choice Voting, and Final Five Voting. “Veterans for Political Innovation will mobilize one of America's most trusted institutions, veterans, to help restore one of our least-trusted institutions, the politics industry." Learn More Website: https://www.veteransforpoliticalinnovation.org Upcoming Events:  March 16th; Nevada Launch March 30th; Cape Girardeau Roundtable and Happy Hour VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you. About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.

Billy's earliest memory as a kid was tagging along with his dad while golfing. He really doesn't ever remember not loving the game. His dad taught him how to play and it became a passion growing up. He remembers getting his first par at the age of 11.  He doesn't remember what triggered the decision, but he decided to he wanted to attend the United States Naval Academy. In 2004 he graduated and continued serving for five years as a Surface Warfare Officer. After leaving the Navy, Billy has played golf as a professional career. He is currently the only veteran playing on the PGA tour. Billy Hurley III Foundation About five years ago he and his wife decided to found the Billy Hurley III Foundation. Its sole purpose is to "support, honor, and enhance the lives of military families; serving those who serve along side." Check out their upcoming fundraising event:   The Brave Golf Tournament, May 16th at the Naval Academy Golf Course.   Learn More Website: www.billyhurley3.com Brave Golf Tournament: www.bh3.golf VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you. About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.

Nicole began her work in broadcasting and film almost 20 years ago, volunteering with the local National Public Radio. She has a passion for it and received her Master's Degree in Journalism and Public Relations in 2013. It was her experience as a military spouse that brought her the desire to highlight the struggles that the service members go through. Finishing up in 2018, she filmed, directed and produced the documentary, “The Journey Back to Normal - A Look at Complementary Therapies to Combat PTSD”. This was her second documentary but first sharing about the military experience.  She is continuing this journey as she is currently working on; “HiddenWounds: The Documentary”. Nate Brookshire is an active duty Provost Marshall with over 31 years of service in the Army . He has been a longtime advocate for facilitating long-term mental health care for veterans and their families and has been brought onboard to assist in the production of the documentary, “Hidden Wounds.”  In 2010, he co-authored the book, “Hidden Wounds: A Soldier's Burden”. “Its fictional characters discuss the complex topics of suicide, survivor's guilt, addiction and moral injury.” The book has been instrumental in sharing about the non-profit Hidden Wounds, whose soul mission is to help reduce barriers to accessing mental health care. Hidden Wounds: The Documentary is set to release early 2023. Its purpose is to highlight the “raw story of life after combat.” The trailer is available to preview, and has currently be nominated for; “Best Trailer at the Raleigh Film and Arts Festival” in October 2021.  Production is still in the fundraising stages and you can check out how to support it below.   Learn More Watch the Trailer   Website: https://www.hiddenwoundsdocumentary.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hiddenwoundsdoc/?hl=en Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/Amelio-Media-LLC-presents-Hidden-Wounds-The-Documentary-100722049020490/  VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you. About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.  

Sean Lanier is a veteran Army helicopter pilot. About 8 years ago he realized there was a problem. ROTC scholarships were seeing just over half of their recipients graduate and commission.  How can the armed services find the right candidates, get them matched with a college that fits them and have their success rate improve?  Sean found building relationships with high school guidance and career counselings was the perfect place to start. Helping graduating high schoolers find a school that fits their personality and still offers an ROTC program has allowed the success rate to improve dramatically. This coupled with continued coaching and mentoring in the transition process. Resolve Solutions Resolve Solutions, founded in 2018, has dedicated its mission to placing talented candidates in schools that fit with ROTC scholarships. They also are committed to “providing educational and financial support along with early college preparation.”  That is honestly just the beginning. They hope to help students create generational wealth by capitalizing on coming out of college with little to no debt, learning the benefits of the GI bill for furthering their education, the VA loans to become home owners and more. It will have a life long impact. Learn More Sean LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/e-sean-lanier-297ab87/ Resolve Solutions Website:  https://resolvesolutions.org/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/resolvesolutionsinc/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/resolvesolutio2?lang=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ResolveSolutionsInc/ VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you. About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.  

Todd Connor, is a Navy Veteran, small business owner and cofounder of Veterans for Political Innovation. Todd has a passion for entrepreneurs, especially veterans. He founded Bunker Labs in 2014. Bunker Labs helps veteran entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses. Todd owns his own business, the Emerson House and recently set his sights on political office. Veterans for Political Innovation Todd has a passion to help change the political playing field. He found most people are dissatisfied with the current political system but are unsure of the solution. His experience as a business owner and veteran has given him a unique perspective on the two party system. A solution he found, states should go to a "final five" voting system and much of the current frustrations would be eliminated. He is looking to his fellow veterans to help spark this political innovation. With over half of veterans registered as Independents, most miss out on voting in a primary. The "final five" voting system would remedy this problem.  Veterans for Political Innovation's mission is to “make our political system less toxic and more competitive by mobilizing military veterans to fight to preserve democracy through election innovations.” Learn More Website: www.veteransforpoliticalinnovation.org Todd's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toddconnor/ VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you. About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.  

Sports have been a major part of Will Huff's life. Growing up playing football and lacrosse, he was recruited to play for West Point Military Academy.  After graduation Will served for over 23 years as an Army Officer. He learned life long lessons from serving in the military but also from his coaches. After his Army career, Will returned to athletics working in the Towson University Athletic Department and then also for the Chesapeake Bayhawks, a Major League lacrosse team.  With his background and experience he decided to join Soldiers to Sidelines in June 2020. He felt it was the perfect combination helping veterans and military spouses find a passion and opportunity in the athletic coaching world. Soldiers to Sidelines Soldiers to Sidelines was founded in 2014 by Harrison Bernstein, who had been coaching high school, NCAA, and NFL football for over 14 years. He was coaching high school football at the time and decided to invite a few veterans to practice. This was the small seed that has grown into Soldiers to Sidelines. They offer service members and military spouses a pathway to coaching athletics, from the community level all the way up to the professional level. This past year it has seen exponential grown when they leveraged the aspect of virtual courses. This has allowed them to reach service members and spouses around the globe, some still active duty.     Learn More Website: https://soldierstosidelines.org/ Will Huff's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-huff-3a699593/ VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you. About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.

Mike Morgan launched Flags of the Fallen on Veterans Day this past year. After the tragic losses of 13 military members in the Afghan withdrawal of August 2021, Mike had an idea. Mike made a connection with 13 service members lost and the 13 stripes on the American flag that these brave men and women were defending. He thought, “How can I show my gratitude?” Not being a veteran himself, Mike consulted several veteran friends to make sure he created these 13 flags with proper protocols and insignia. During those conversations it was impressed on Mike to create these for others too. He found that every veteran he spoke with knew someone that gave that ultimate sacrifice. This was a way to honor and remember them and show gratitude to their families. Flags of the Fallen Flags of the Fallen was founded to “remember those we lost by caring for those they left behind by building wooden flags for their families and loved ones.” They build wooden flags for the families of both fallen military members or first responders. You can visit Flags of the Fallen website to donate to the cause or nominate a family. Learn More Website: https://www.flagsofthefallen.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flagsofthefallen Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flagsofthefallen/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Flagsof_Fallen VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you. About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.

Drew Everett and Nick Wyatt have known each other since grade school. As they got older they knew they wanted to go into business as a team. Nick headed to the Marine Corps and Drew went to the Army. After both serving in their respective branches it was time to take the next step toward entrepreneurship. Nick's dad was about to retire and had a shoe insole business. It seemed like a natural handoff. That is where Apex Gear Co. started. As they learned about e-commerce and web development there came a time when someone approached them about adding a product to their website. Long story short they essentially wanted to create and “Amazon experience” but featuring all Veteran made products. They have worked hard on getting this process automated and have since added over 80 veteran brands.  They are continuing to grow and are looking for new vendors to be added. It's a marketplace featuring all veteran companies and goods, most made right here in the United States. Learn More Website: www.apexgearcompany.com Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/apexgearcompany Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apexgearcompany/ VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you. About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.

Jay Jackson spent 15 year serving in the Air Force. He started out in security forces and ended up in air traffic control. His transition out was not what he planned, but took the challenge head on harnessing his entrepreneurial spirit. He first started, Serve, Impact and Prosper, a consulting agency and later was introduced to buying businesses. This led to the launch of Galaxy Group. He would tell you he's always had entrepreneurship in his bones. Even while on active duty he had a food truck and a lawn care business. Once hanging up the uniform it was a natural path to continue to follow.  Serve, Impact and Prosper helps coaches and consultants scale their business without the complicated ads and sales funnels. Jay's experience of 15 years starting, buying and growing businesses will help you in your own business. He is looking to grow his community in the Tampa, FL area. Galaxy Group has acquired three different companies over the last two years and they're not stopping there. Their goal is to have over 20 million dollars in revenue. In addition Jay is on a mission to transform 1 billion lives. Learn More Website:  tableofceos.com LinkedIn:  http://www.linkedin.com/li/jay-jackson-coaching VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you. About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.

Marjorie K. Eastman, Army Veteran, Running for U.S. Senate in North Carolina Marjorie, compelled by the events of 9-11 enlisted in the Army Reserves. After just two years she received a direct commission and continued her service as an intelligence officer and commander. She had two combat tours. Her 10 years of military service laid the ground work for her desire to serve this country. It was recent events this past August, the fall and withdrawal out of Afghanistan that made her decide to run for North Carolina's U.S. Senate seat. Marjorie shares, “We're not going to get different results if we don't send different people.” She feels the career politicians are no longer serving the American people. She is looking to the people of North Carolina to send her to Washington to make a difference. From veteran, to military spouse, to mom, to author, her titles are many and her list of accomplishments are even more, but ultimately Marjorie just wants to continue serving the constituents of North Carolina and make a positive impact in their lives. Learn More Website: https://marjoriekeastman.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marjoriekeastman/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marjoriekeastman Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marjoriekeastman/  VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you.   About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.

T.C. Beckett, a retired Chief Petty Officer in the Navy, met a homeless veteran. It was this encounter that wouldn't let T.C. rest knowing there were others like this gentleman out there. Estimates of anywhere from 40-80 thousand veterans are homeless not knowing where their next meal is coming from. T.C. had to do something. He didn't just want to feed homeless veterans, he wanted to empower them. Veterans Produce was founded in 2018. Since they have built a team to help them fulfill their mission. Kenny Smith joined the team as the, Marketing Executive. He is a Navy veteran with a passion for marketing and helping others see and understand what Veterans Produce does. Veterans Produces is a veteran-owned 501(c)(3) non-profit organization created to feed homeless veterans. They help break the cycle of food insecurity by empowering Veterans to provide for themselves. Veterans Produce builds local community gardens, that provides access to healthy food year round. Veterans learn how to farm, growing their own food. They build skills that will allow them future work and contribute to producing Building local community gardens enables 365-day access to healthy organic food. They do this using aquaponic gardens, as they are highly efficient and produce up to 8-10 more food per square foot. This process can be replicated in other communities across the United States. Learn More Website: http://www.veteransproduce.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tangocharlie/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/veteransproduce  VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you.   About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to pros

Brian Andrews and Jeffrey Wilson are a coauthor team of multiple action-adventure thriller series.  They met up the year they both debuted as authors and found the common ground of being veterans in an organization called International Thriller Writers. Both Navy veterans, but coming from very different career paths. Brian was a submarine officer with a psychology degree. Jeffrey on the other hand was a combat surgeon in the US Navy. Each of them continued to add to their resume with a variety of careers before making author a full-time gig.  They love to share their passion for writing books as a business and a career. That has been a mission and career of writing books that are entertaining but also share stories to honor those men and women that have served and are still serving in the military. They have multiple series that are bound to keep you reading. Their most recent release, Rogue Asset, a W.E.B Griffin, Presidential Agent novel, just hit the shelves December 7th. There are so many other books on the horizon. Book two of the the Shepherd Series, Dark Angel comes out in April. Sons of Valor, book two comes out in June. The third book of the Shepherd Series, comes out in October of next year. And for those following the Tier One series. It is not over, book seven is coming next winter. Check out more at their links below. Learn More Website: http://www.andrews-wilson.com Facebook:  http://www.facebook.com/andrewsandwilson Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/andrewsandwilson  VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you.   About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.    

When Aaron decided to enlist in the Navy he knew he wanted to become a chef. After just a few years he had found success and enjoyed a four year stint in Italy, cooking for many senior leaders. It was during this time he wanted to do more to fight the war that was waging in the Middle East. He soon realized the EOD techs had the coolest gear and were often the first to the fight. He transferred to the Army to become an expert Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) technician. During his second deployment his life changed as an IED exploded in his face in Afghanistan. It took years to rehabilitate, but Aaron was motivated. He began running marathons, kayaking, and climbing mountains despite being left blind from his injuries. It was in 2015 he came down with bacterial meningitis, after another brush with death, he was now left deaf. During this entire time Aaron was getting reacquainted with a family friend, McKayla. She soon became his life line, helping him communicate before finally having success with cochlear implants. As Aaron rehabbed, his favorite holiday, Thanksgiving, was coming up. He began preparing a menu and inviting friends. McKayla saw a new spark in Aaron that she knew she had to keep going. It was dessert that Aaron created that launched their successful business. Aaron had made fudge for that Thanksgiving meal and soon people started requesting it. E.O.D. Fudge was born, but this time E.O.D was for Extra Ordinary Delights. Aaron and McKayla have enjoyed the success that E.O.D Fudge has brought as they raise their family of boys and endeavor into another passion, real estate. Check out their famous fudge at the links below, get it before it's gone. Learn More Website: http://www.eodfudge.com Facebook:  http://www.facebook.com/EODconfections Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/EODconfections    VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you.   About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.    

Zach and Tricia were high school sweethearts. Little did they know when they started dating where life would take them.  Zach joined the Air Force and that dictated their lives for 20 years before retiring, just this past year. The military not only let them experience the world, but taught them perseverance. About 5 years before retirement they decided they wanted to start a business. Already handy, Zach had started dabbling in woodworking, matched with Tricia's accounting and business background TFTWood was born. TFTWood TFTWood, which stands for "The Family Tree Woodworking" is an online retailer that specializes in kitchen gifts, gadgets and accessories made of wood. This two-fold business also offers unique customized, luxury furniture and cabinets. The “Herbie”, an herb stripper is currently their most popular product. This little kitchen helper makes using herbs a breeze. Find this and more wood products like cutting boards and ornaments at the link below. Listen to the podcast as they share their journey, what's next for TFTWood and some marketing tips for entrepreneurs and small businesses. Learn More Website:  http://www.tftwood.com Facebook & Instagram:  @tftwoodworking Book Recommendation: Get Different  by Mike Michalowicz  VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you. About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.    

Raised by two Navy veterans, Cutler was destined for the Navy. Their influence led him to the Naval Academy. He thought that he'd go to make his parents happy but could get out if he didn't like it.  Thirty eight years later and he finally retired as a Vice Admiral. Immediately after retirement he worked as the president for Navy Federal Credit Union. Fourteen years he spent transforming Navy Federal into one of the most successful financial institutions in the country, quadrupling its size and making it an industry leader in customer service. It was ranked by Fortune magazine as a Best Place to Work for eight years in a row. Author After encouragement from his wife to share his “sea stories” in a book. Cutler wrote a book in 2019 titled, “From the Sea to the C-Suite: Lessons Learned from the Bridge to the Corner Office”.  He walks his reader through lessons he learned in the Navy that have carried him through his leadership as the president of Navy Federal for fourteen years. Learn More LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/cutler-dawson-732b815/ Find the book on  Amazon    VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you.   About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.          

Dana Spain describes herself as a serial entrepreneur. She gets bored easily and every five years or so is looking for a new endeavor, but the past 10 years she's loved what she's been doing.  Volumetric Building Companies was started over 10 years ago, focused on the construction of residential modular construction. Dana and her family originally started with retail chains before progressing into real estate and development. Dana is currently the director of community relations for Volumetric Building Company. VBC is the “largest and most experienced multifamily modular company in the industry”.  Philanthropy is close to Dana's heart, so the VBC Giving Foundation was a natural overflow for the company. VBC Giving Foundation This nonprofit is dedicated to providing affordable housing for vulnerable populations. Their first project is Veteran Village in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It is a 47 unit new construction, modular building for veterans. Veterans are more likely to suffer homelessness than any other demographic. Veteran Village will provide a place for those veterans coming out of sheltering or transitional environments or really any veteran that needs an affordable place to live. Learn more below. Learn More Website:  www.VBCGivingFoundation.org Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=vbc%20giving%20foundation LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vbc-giving-foundation/?viewAsMember=true Dana Spain's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dana-spain-8a0b6425/    VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you.   About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.  

Phil Capron, served as a Naval Special Warfare Combatant Craft Crewman. Upon getting out of the military, Phil found his passion for real estate. It was during this venture he noticed that he couldn't include his veteran and military brothers and sisters due to regulations surrounding net worth or income. He decided he was going to level the playing field and fix that. Mission First Capital was born. His next mission, is to create 1000 veteran-owned small businesses in the next 10 years. He continues to share his real estate knowledge through his book “Your VA Loan and How it Can Make You a Millionaire”, podcast and conferences.   Mission First Capital Phil founded Mission First Capital earlier this year to allow veterans and military members to invest by partnering with Mission First on real estate deals. He has since acquired over 500 properties and wants to continue to grow.  This is the very first 100% veteran owned and operated fund backed by real estate. Learn More Website: https://missionfirstcapital.com/ LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-capron-mission-first-capital/    VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you.   About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.  

Julie Waters - Voice Actor & JAG Officer in the Army Reserves Julie Waters started her time serving as a military police officer in the Army.  An opportunity to go to law school came and she couldn't pass it up. She continues serving in the Army Reserves now as a JAG officer. Julie will tell you that her time in the Army taught her the attributes needed to be a small business owner. She took her love of acting and drama coupled with her work ethic and discipline to become a voice actor. Voice Actor Starting in 2018, Julie has grown her voice over business exponentially. Julie does voice overs for a variety of companies, from commercials to politics to narration and anything in-between. She will take any copy you give her, bring it to life with the voice and emotion that best fits your business and make it stand out. Learn More Website: www.juliewatersvo.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliewaters_vo/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-waters/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/juliewaters_vo  VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you.   About Your Host  Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.    

Mark Delaney- Founder of The Veteran Professional, Helping You Crush it After the Military Mark joined the Army in 2011. He spent 8 years serving and then decided to get out. It was this transition into the civilian world that laid the groundwork for founding The Veteran Professional. There were an overabundance of resources, all resources focused on just getting a job, and little information about applying to graduate schools. These three frustrations led him to create his website and start his podcast to continue his service to others. The Veteran Professional “While veteran unemployment is for sure an issue, so is veteran underemployment. Veterans have an immense amount to contribute to society and we are leaving some of what we have to offer on the table.” Mark's goal is to help the transitioning service member “access higher education, pursue professional careers, and most importantly find meaning and purpose in your life after the uniform.” Learn More Website:  https://theveteranpro.com/ Podcast: : Social Media:  @theveteranprofessional Email:  mark@theveteranpro.com  VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you.   About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.      

Charlie Moyer - Coast Guard Veteran, Founder & CEO of Badass Beard Care Charlie Moyer went into the Coast Guard straight out of high school. It was an experience that ultimately helped him become an entrepreneur. He learned discipline and how to adapt to whatever job was put before him. This set the groundwork for, Badass Beard Care, founded in 2014 after being medically discharged from the Coast Guard. Charlie started growing his own beard and making beard products for himself. Soon he shared them with his friends while going to school and they quickly wanted more. A website was created and that was just the beginning. Badass Beard Care Badass Beard Care specializes in men's grooming products. Their products use all-natural and organic ingredients. They offer oils, butters, waxes, washes and deodorants. Their mission is simple: “inspire men to unleash their inner Badass by providing inspiring content and premium products that promote healthy skin and beard hair growth.” Learn More Website: https://badassbeardcare.com/ Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/badassbeardcare/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Badassbeardcare/ YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNUo9-b1t7Zk7TeWiMhSPrw VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you.   About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.  

Matt “Griff” Griffin was a 2001 West Point graduate. Like many, his life quickly transformed after September 11th of that year. Little did he know it was that day that would give him the opportunity to later co-found Combat Flip Flops. Griff became an Army Ranger and spent four deployments in the Middle East. His time in Afghanistan really shaped his world-view. Eventually he wanted to take his lessons of teamwork and leadership to the entrepreneurial world. Combat Flip Flops A trip to a combat boot factory in Kabul is what compelled Griff to start Combat Flip Flops. He saw the impact that employment had on a community and wanted to continue to positively impact the country of Afghanistan. Eventually the footwear production had to be moved to Colombia, another war-torn country that could benefit from a manufacturing plant. It is this calling that keeps Combat Flip Flops going. A mission to manufacture products in conflict and post conflict areas, creating jobs, funding women's education and ultimately improving people's lives. Check out who else has stepped into the Veteran Crowd Spotlight.  Listen on Libsyn   Watch on YouTube     Learn More Combat Flip Flops:  https://www.combatflipflops.com Griff's Thoughts on Afghanistan: https://www.combatflipflops.com/blogs/combat-flip-flops/written-in-taliban VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you.   About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.          

Gretchen Pace - Former Army Intelligence Officer & Founder of Goose & Willow Gretchen Pace graduated from the University of Virginia and knew she wanted to serve. She joined the Army as an intelligence officer. She shares “The military changed the trajectory of my life. It was the most incredible thing I've ever done. I'm so glad that it just occurred to me that I needed to serve and, and pursue that for eight and a half”After her service Gretchen wanted to have more ownership in what she was spending her time on. Growing up in a family of entrepreneurs, she decided to make that career pivot. She is currently attending Darden Business School, upon graduation she will a be full-time entrepreneur. She founded Goose & Willow this past summer. It is a Americana-themed home goods startup. Gretchen has a passion for art and America and decided to put those together, taking her own art pieces along with others and printing them on home goods. Her grandmother helped her learn to sew to get started.  At Goose & Willow everything is made in the USA. Its purpose according to Gretchen is to “unify us in a very polarized society against something we can all stand behind. America is a place that we all love and it offers so much opportunity. And I just really want to celebrate the goodness that, that the country brings to so many people.” Learn More Gretchen's LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/gretchen-pace/ Goose & Willow Coupon Code “America” for 10% off Website:  https://gooseandwillow.com/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/goose.and.willow/ Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/the.goose.and.willow VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you.   About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.          

Jason Williscroft - Navy Veteran, Founder of Tribify & RingKnocker Jason Williscroft enlisted in the Marine Corps, but eventually attended the Naval Academy and served in the Navy for five years. His love of engineering developed over that time and set the trajectory for his career. Jason successfully began developing software for data management for global financial institutions. He used these skills to launch Tribify and Ringknocker. Tribify & Ringknocker Jason started a Facebook group to offer a place to mentor active duty Naval Officers transitioning out of the service. There was such overwhelming support to help, Ringknocker was born. It provides a network for active duty and former military officers.  Simultaneously Tribify, an “enterprise-grade, AI-enhanced data management system that leverages the power of the social network to find your future customers, capture their attention, and engage with them at scale” was launched. It helps you find the right people to connect with to build your customer base. Find out more below Learn More Ringknocker Thursday evenings 8:00pm EST 90 minutes of networking https://ringknocker.net/ Tribify https://tribify.me/ Robert Williscroft Podcast https://veterancrowdnetwork.com/2021/01/robert-g-williscroft-retired-submarine-officer-and-real-life-jack-ryan/   VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you.   About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.        

Eli Crane - Navy Seal Veteran, Bottle Breacher CEO & Congressional Candidate Eli has five war time deployments, three of them to the Middle East with SEAL Team 3 and served our country for 13 years. Many of the lessons he learned in the service set him up for success in the entrepreneurial world. It all started when he decided to make a bottle opener out of a 50-caliber shell. As it gained popularity, Eli turned his garage into his studio. After making 500 of them in the garage the company was gaining traction and at a pivotal point. Eli and his wife pitched to Shark Tank and continue to grow, now a multi-million dollar company. Bottle Breacher Bottle Breacher is veteran owned and operated. “We aim to provide the best hand crafted, personalized man-gifts, groomsman gifts and corporate/promotional products on the market." Being a "Made in America" brand is important to Bottle Breacher. It creates local jobs and gives back to the community. Due to their success they donate to over 100 non-profits. Congress Eli now wants to take his veteran and entrepreneurial experience to capitol hill. He's frustrated with the direction of this country and lack of leadership. He wants his kids to grow up with the same freedom and prosperity that he did. “I'm hoping that stepping up, stepping out and being willing to lead, encourages and gives others courage to go do the same thing.” Whether serving on the battlefield, running a business or now running for congress, nothing is done by yourself. Eli is looking for your support in this next election. Learn More Instagram: @EliCrane_CEO www.eliforarizona.com www.bottlebreacher.comt VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you.   About Your Host Bob Louthan - VeteranCrowd[/caption] Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.    

Jay Collins - Army Special Forces Combat Veteran & Congressional Candidate Jay Collins would say he's an average guy that wants to make a difference. He has made that difference, spending more than 20 years of his life serving this nation. He is a highly decorated, purple heart recipient, Army Special Forces combat veteran. Even following the amputation of his leg, he continued to serve on active duty for five years. After the military he stepped into overseeing the distribution of millions of meals to veterans, first responders, and those in need. It was this non-profit work across the country that gave him a glimpse into the hearts of Americans. He saw most Americans want the same things: “they want their families to succeed, their children to have better lives than them, and to improve their communities.” Jay is ready to fight for those things, using his experience in the military and with non-profits to serve the constituents of Florida's 14th district. Learn More Website:  https://www.jaycollinsforcongress.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jarrid-collins-b737aa58/ VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you.   About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.    

Brian Castner - Former EOD Officer, Author and War Crimes Investigator Brian Castner wanted to be an astronaut in the Air Force but landed himself in the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) community. He said he would't trade it for the world. His experience during his multiple deployments shaped him as the writer he is today. He has written two military books, one about his own combat experience in Iraq and the other about a friend who died in Afghanistan. After writing these books Brian wanted to write something different. He loves history and travel and pursued that genre with Disappointment River. A book about Alexander Mackenzie, a fur trader and his attempt to cross North America 14 years before Lewis and Clark. His most recent book, Stampede, gives a glimpse into the true realties of the history of the 1897 Klondike Gold Rush. In addition to an author, Brian is a War Crimes Investigator for Amnesty International. Spending recent time in Afghanistan to investigate civilian casualties. Brian continues to write in both avenues and is currently looking for ideas for his next book. Stay tuned for what's to come. Learn More Website: https://briancastner.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/briancastnerwriter/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brian_castner VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you.   About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.    

Pete Fretwell & Taylor Kiland - Co-Authors of "Lessons from the Hanoi Hotel" Pete was doing a some work for his graduate class when he read Good to Great a business management book by James Collins. The book referenced Admiral James Stockdale and his imprisonment as a POW in the Hanoi Hilton. It wasn't until 2005 that Pete saw a discussion panel on C-SPAN that included several POW's and Taylor, a former naval officer and military history author of over 18 books. Pete contacted her and their project started. For seven years the pair researched to create the book; Lessons From the Hanoi Hilton: Six Characteristics of High Performance Teams. It took all that time to answer the question: "Why are so many of those that were imprisoned, abused, and tortured in the North Vietnamese prison camp so resilient and successful in subsequent years?" The answer would be Admiral James Stockdale and his example of leadership. Pete is looking to expand his research to include Stockdale's farming background as a foundation of leadership. Taylor is working on several writing projects. You'll want to keep tabs on both of them for future books. Learn More Pete Fretwell pfretwell@gmail.com Taylor Kiland  LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-kiland-9b4a101/ Website: https://taylorkiland.com/ VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you.   About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.      

Kim Mitchell - Navy Veteran & Nationally Recognized Veteran Advocate Kim would tell you it was her past that has defined her purpose in life. Rescued as a baby from an orphanage in Vietnam by a US Air Force Sergeant, she grew up in Wisconsin. This upbringing shaped Kim's approach to life. She attended the Naval Academy and served 17 years as a Surface Warfare Officer. But her service didn't stop there. She has incredible passion for veterans, military members and their families and has dedicated her entire career serving this community.  She is on the board of numerous nonprofit boards including the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund and Woody Williams Foundation. Kim is currently the Senior Vice President for Military Veteran and Government Affairs for National University. About National University Founded 50 years ago by a retired Navy captain who saw a need for a different model for higher education. He created a 30 day course, which allowed at the time for those deploying to Vietnam the ability to take a class prior to deploying. This is still the model followed today. “National University is among the largest, private, nonprofit universities in California. With more than 180,000 alumni, National University is dedicated to making lifelong learning opportunities accessible, challenging, and relevant to a diverse population of students.” Learn More LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-mitchell-306b0b2b/ National University: https://www.nu.edu/   VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you. About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.  

Valerie Lavin - Retired Army First Sergeant & CEO of Luminary Global An epiphany while watching Private Benjamin originally led Valerie to enlist in the Army.  Little did she know it would turn into a 21 year career. Retiring as a first sergeant, the Army taught her many life lessons and helped her become the entrepreneur she is today. Upon leaving the Army the transition was hard, it was through the struggle that Valerie started working with many organizations that help veteran entrepreneurs.  Valerie's passion led to to co-founding Action Zone, an organization that provides education and advocacy for Veteran entrepreneurs. It doesn't end there, Valerie also works with Bunker Labs, another organization that helps military businesses grow and thrive. Though all of that she started her own entrepreneurial journey with Luminary Global. Luminary Global Luminary Global was founded in 2016 because Valerie saw a need and wanted to continue to serve those that serve. Its mission is “to provide Emergency Medical Service (EMS), Fire Law Enforcement, Military personnel and Citizens with the equipment and supplies they need to save lives at home and abroad”. They provide emergency tactical gear, prepper gear and more to law enforcement, first responders, military and everyday people. Their specialty is in customized kits. Learn More LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerieellis7/ https://luminaryglobal.com/ VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you.   About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.      

Don Bentley - From Apache Helicopter Pilot to NY Times Best Selling Author Don Bentley has loved writing since he was a little kid. He started working on his first book in 3rd grade. In high school, his English teacher told him he had talent, but he wasn't quite ready to pursue writing full-time. Instead he landed himself at Ohio State working on an Electrical Engineering degree. Winning an Army ROTC scholarship, Don commissioned and became an Army Apache helicopter pilot, following his family's legacy of serving.  This was just the first of many careers. Following his time in the military Don worked as an FBI Special Agent and eventually was a member of the Dallas Office Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team. After law enforcement Don continued to work with several companies that develop technology for the U.S. Special Operations Community.  Author Don's entire career helped shape and mold him into the writer he is today. His characters are born out of his own experiences and those he served with. He is the author of the Matt Drake thriller series, including Without Sanction and The Outside Man. Two more Matt Drake books are in the works. Don was also asked to write a Tom Clancy Jr. book, Target Acquired landing himself on the New York Times best selling list. Writing full-time now, you can expect many more books coming from Don. Learn More Twitter: https://twitter.com/bentleydonb FB:https://www.facebook.com/bentleydonb https://donbentleybooks.com/ VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you.   About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.      

Show notes 1-August - Top10 updates and more with Andrew van der Stock TOP10 section notes: We have talked with former Board member, current Executive Director of OWASP and long term big time contributor to the Top 10 project, Andrew van der Stock, about; The past and the present of OWASP Top10. What it is and what it isn't. How it is different to standards or other Top X lists. The data and process behind it and the new Top10! YOU HEAR IT HERE FIRST FOLKS!! Changes to the categories and ordering to Top10 - Andrew goes through the new categories and major changes! Follow the project on twitter @ https://twitter.com/owasptop10 For the process: https://www.owasptopten.org/ For data submission: https://github.com/OWASP/Top10/tree/master/2021/Data 3 new categories in 2021 version: Insecure design (missing, ineffective or redundant designs) Server side request forgery (SSRF) Software and data integrity failures Ordering has changed and multiple previous categories merged. Final order will be revealed at the OWASP 20th Anniversary event on 24th September 2021 https://20thanniversary.owasp.org/ We want to thank all contributors to OWASP Top 10 for creating something which inspired many people to get into security. Extras: For getting involved in the education committee or the two new projects mentioned during the episode [Appsec Curriculum project and How to get into Appsec project ] education-committee slack channel is: https://owasp.slack.com/archives/C016H3FK3D5 Orange Tsai - world-renowned expert of SSRF - https://twitter.com/orange_8361 & https://blog.orange.tw/ Non-Top10 updates: In the spirit of its 20th birthday, we have talked about the story of OWASP. Mark Curphey's post on Veracode blog for the start story of the OWASP: https://www.veracode.com/blog/intro-appsec/start-owasp-true-story New flagship project: Software Bill of Materials (in partnership withCycloneDX) https://owasp.org/www-project-cyclonedx/ Vendor-neutral vs vendor-hostile approach Elections for the Board coming up!! There will be a call for candidates for the Board mid-August!! Watch this space and apply. If you are on OWASP leader list, please contribute to the revamp of Mission Statement. Check your mailbox for instructions. We are at the Black Hat US! Come visit our booth (search for OWASP in the vendor booth list) Corporate Membership structure is reshaped and been published: https://owasp.org/supporters/ trademark licensing for training partners has become much easier and sponsorships become much easily recognised, plus affordability for startups and regions We passed 4600 members and the new individual Membership Portal is launched: https://owasp.org/membership/2021/07/05/MembershipPortal.html (edited)

John Payne - Retired Army, Vietnam Veteran & Mystery Author John Payne was originally set to go to medical school, but decided to commission into the Army Medical Corps. His 20 year career took him all over the world, including serving in Vietnam. He has done many things, including teaching as an adjunct professor in business at several universities, working in the field of health care administration, running three small businesses and before deciding to write. It was during his recovery in a Veterans Affairs hospital from agent orange that he started writing with the encouragement of his wife. Books John has written eight books, two series. He has primarily written mystery books and has used his medical background as a backdrop for many of them. He has also written a historical romance novel, “In Defense of Patch Schubert”. This particular book took many hours of research to accurately depict the Civil War time period set in Texas.  He is currently working on re-editing some previous books to give them new life. Learn More Website: https://www.johncpayne.com VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you.   About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.        

George Wallace - Retired Navy Commander & National Best-Selling Author George Wallace served 22 years in the Navy as an officer on nuclear submarines. It was his time in the service that led him to become a National best-selling author, taking his knowledge and experience to craft submarine stories. During his time in the Navy he commanded the Los Angeles class attack submarine, the USS Houston, working exclusively with the SEAL community. A few years after retirement in 1999, George teamed up with Don Keith to begin writing the Hunter Killer Series. He has written seven books in this series, with more in the works, and independently authored Operation Golden Dawn. Hunter Killer Series The first of the series, Final Bearing became a best-selling novel. It was their next book, Firing Point, that was used to produce the major motion picture, Hunter Killer, staring Gerard Butler and Gary Oldman. There are now six books published in this series, with the seventh, Silent Running coming in 2022, which is currently available for pre-order. Learn More Website:  https://wallace-keith.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WallaceandKeith/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgeawallace/ VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you.   About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.      

Chris Anthony - Army Veteran, Founder & CEO TeamWorx Security Chris Anthony grew up in Texas. He started out as a successful business executive but knew he wanted something different. At the age of 23 he decided to enlist in the Army and attend Ranger School. After 12 years as a communicator and later an analyst in the Army he was medically retired. He started working for the Department of Defense and was later recruited by John Hopkins University Applied Physics Lab. In this job Chris “developed solutions to improve our nation's ability to defend itself from advanced cyber threats”. It was this experience that laid the groundwork for launching, TeamWorx Security. TeamWorx Security It was founded in 2016 by a team that met at the Applied Physics Lab. "TeamWorx Security is a commercial software and technology business helping to integrate people, processes, and technology. We currently work with defense cyber, intelligence, healthcare, and critical infrastructure industries. Simply put, we help organizations streamline their processes, data, tasks, and projects while reducing the cost of your enterprise. We bridge the gap between decision makers at all levels of the organization all at the speed of need.” Check out who else has stepped into the Veteran Crowd Spotlight.  Learn More Website: https://www.teamworxsecurity.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/teamworx-security/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/teamworxsec VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you.   About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.  

Jeff Schloesser -Retired Army Major General, Author of "Marathon War" Jeff Schloesser is a retired Army Major General. Born into an Army family he didn't know if enlisting in the Army would become a career, but it did after serving thirty-four years.  His career has taken him across the globe with his wife and two children. He commanded the 101st Airborne Division for thirty-three months. It was this command, specifically the fourteen months in combat,  that had an instrumental impact on his leadership and understanding of the Afghanistan War. He started journaling his daily tasks and takeaways and knew they needed to be shared.  He wrote Marathon War: Leadership in Combat in Afghanistan, that was published earlier this year. Marathon War: Leadership in Combat in Afghanistan Jeff might not call himself an author, but his book will tell you otherwise. He offers rare insight and reflection on his time as the 101st Airborne Division commander. A candid account of command in combat sharing his thoughts of critical national decision-makers and the leadership lessons he learned. This book will help its reader understand leadership in the toughest of environments and a unique perspective on the complexities of the Afghan War. Learn More Website:  www.jeffschloesser.com VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you. www.veterancrowdnetwork.com   About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.    

Sherman Williams & Emily McMahan - Academy Investor Network, Helping Service Academy Graduates Invest in Venture-backed Startups Sherman Williams is a Naval Academy graduate. After serving as a Naval Intelligence Officer, he headed to Chicago's Booth School to study finance and landed himself in investment banking. While in banking he started investing and advising startups. This was a perfect segue to co-founding Academy Investor Network. Emily McMahan is a WestPoint Academy graduate. After her time in the Army as a Military Police Officer, she has always been focused around community and working with entrepreneurs. She has a passion to work with startup companies and founded Capitol Post, which taught military veterans how to start and grow businesses, a great foundation for beginning the Academy Investor Network. She is also the Deputy Director at the Common Mission Project, an international platform supporting mission-driven entrepreneurs. Academy Investor Network Academy Investor Network was founded in 2020. From Sherman's and Emily's own academy experience they personally saw the unique population that made up the graduates. They wanted to offer an investment syndicate for U.S. Service Academy graduates to invest in venture-backed startups. “We enable every Service Academy graduate to connect, learn and invest in the venture asset class.” Learn More Sherman Williams Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherman-williams/ Emily McMahan Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilymcmahan/ Academy Investor Network  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/academy-investor-network/ Website: https://academyinvestor.com/ Twitter:  https://twitter.com/AIN_members VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you. About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions a

Jose Suarez - Navy Veteran, CEO of JS Consulting, Provides Insight on Electric Cars Jose Suarez graduated from Virginia Military Institute with a civil engineering degree. Upon graduation he commissioned as an officer in the United States Navy. He served seven years before starting his civilian career that varied from engineering and construction to the mining industry.  JS Consulting It was his experience that led him to found JS Consulting in 2019. He consults on a wide range of topics to companies around the world but has a passion about green energy. His knowledge of mining, particularly lithium has made him an expert on electric cars and wind turbines.  Learn More LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josejsuarez/ Articles: The Inconvenient Truth About Electric Cars:  https://twitter.com/Jose38802347/status/1380202814668955657 Lessons in Leadership: What I learned from the US Military from Chief Petty Officers and the Troops:  https://documentcloud.adobe.com/link/review?uri=urn%3Aaaid%3Ascds%3AUS%3A735a574b-c528-4266-b2f9-e20523268404#pageNum=1 VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you. About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.      

Travis Wilson - Retired Green Beret, Founder & CEO of Alpha Elite Performance Travis Wilson served in the Army for 21 years. He spent time as a Green Beret and in the Special Forces. He has always had an interest in health and fitness, but a parachuting accident pushed him to take that a step further.  As he healed from his injury Travis created a muscle performance product that started his entrepreneurial journey in the supplement industry. He eventually founded Alpha Elite Performance, creating his own supplement line. Alpha Elite Perfomance Alpha Elite Performance is a “sports nutrition company focused on supporting the superior performance and recovery of every customer as they pursue their athletic goals”. It was founded in 2015 and has continued to grow. They are continually adding new products and hold all products to strict standards, setting the gold standard for superior quality. Their newest product, Alpha Immune, is coming out soon. It was created with board certified physician, Dr. Lindley to combine eight immunity boosting ingredients to keep you healthy. Learn More Website:  https://alphaeliteperformance.com/ Use code ELITE15 for 15% off your purchase Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/alphaeliteperformance/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/alphaeliteperformance/ Travis LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/traviswilsongreenberet/ VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you. About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.  

Sharee Ashford - Army Reserve Veteran, Mosquito Squad Franchisee in East Atlanta Sharee Ashford was born with an entrepreneurial spirit. Even in her youth, she was always looking for ways to earn extra money, from selling on E-bay to being the candy girl at school. So it's not surprising that after serving in the Army Reserves she is now an owner of a Mosquito Squad franchise in East Atlanta. Her time in the Army helped build resilience and leadership skills that have been essential to her success in launching her Mosquito Squad business. Sharee enjoys building relationships with her customers in East Atlanta and looks forward to continuing to grow her client base. Mosquito Squad Started in 2005, Mosquito Squad is the leading franchise in the mosquito control industry. All are locally owned and operated. Their mission to “provide the locals of the immediate and surrounding areas with the mosquito and tick control services needed”. From regular treatments to be able to enjoy your backyard or just for a big event they have you covered. Learn More Website:  www.mosquitosquad.com/eastatlanta Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoSquadofEastATL The VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community, a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch, or consider if Individual or Corporate Membership in the Network is a fit for you. About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.                        

Driving a race car takes a different kind of athleticism. Just ask Jesse Iwuji, the first active duty US Naval Officer to compete at the national level in NASCAR. Jesse Iwuji grew up in Texas, attended the United States Naval Academy and played football and ran track there for 4 years. Upon graduation with a Bachelors of Science in General Science, Jesse became a Surface Warfare Officer, stationed in San Diego, CA. He served aboard the USS DEXTROUS, USS WARRIOR, USS CHIEF, and USS COMSTOCK, and worked at the Naval Postgraduate School.  Starting in 2015, Jesse became the first person on active duty to compete as a NASCAR driver. He is currently competing in the Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series.  Jesse founded the Red List Group, LLC and served as CEO of JBJE Transportation, owner of THE RED LIST SERIES, and a motivational speaker. The Red List Group is an automobile racing event company that hosts tri-annual events on the west coast. These events bring drag racers together to compete for prizes at race track events. The group also owns JBJE Transportation, which is a trucking/transportation company. We sat down with Jesse on the latest episode of the VeteranCrowd Spotlight. We covered a lot of ground - from attending the Naval Academy and becoming an officer, to the stress of NASCAR, the heat and the wrecks.  Follow Jesse Iwuji on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesse-iwuji-268a6641/ Follow Jesse Iwuiji on Twitter and Instagram @Jesse_Iwuji  Check out his Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/Jesseiwujiracing/ Check out his Youtube   https://bit.ly/jesseiwujiyoutube Subscribe to the VeteranCrowd Network and never miss a thing   https://veterancrowdnetwork.com/ Consider if an Individual or Corporate Membership is right for you. 

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