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In Episode 38 of DogTags to Ownership, Julie and Matt sit down to recap the powerful lessons shared in Episodes 35–37. From Gerry of RedBeard Solutions and his blueprint for building a “Destination Employer,” to Dan Clare of Disabled American Veterans highlighting resources and opportunities for veterans, to Leroy Brown’s inspiring journey from Marine to therapeutic artist—this recap ties it all together.

But that’s not all—this episode also brings bonus content with Charity Brown, founder of The Happy CEO. Charity shares her mission of helping leaders align business growth with personal fulfillment, offering actionable tips for veterans and entrepreneurs ready to thrive in both life and business.

Tune in for a mix of reflection, strategy, and inspiration that will keep you motivated on your path from dog tags to ownership.

Find more information on Charity Brown and the Happy CEO at https://charitybrown.biz/

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In this episode of DogTags to Ownership, we sit down with retired U.S. Marine Leroy Brown, the creative force behind Leroy Brown Art. Leroy shares how he leveraged his military benefits to earn a degree in entrepreneurship and how he transformed his love of painting into both a passion and a business.

From the discipline of the Corps to the freedom of the canvas, Leroy opens up about the therapeutic power of art, the lessons he carried over from service into entrepreneurship, and how creativity can become a path to healing and purpose.

Tune in for inspiration, practical insights, and a story that proves your second chapter can be your most colorful one yet.

Check out Leroy Brown Art at https://leroybrownart.com/

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In this conversation, Dan Clare, Chief Communications and Outreach Officer for the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), discusses the organization's history, mission, and the various services it provides to veterans. He shares insights into the Patriot Boot Camp, a program designed to support veteran entrepreneurs, and highlights the importance of community and mentorship in helping veterans transition to civilian life. The conversation also touches on funding opportunities and the future of DAV's initiatives.

Takeaways

• DAV was founded in 1920 to support veterans returning from war.
• The organization focuses on helping veterans with benefits and healthcare.
• DAV provides transportation services for veterans to medical appointments.
• The Patriot Boot Camp is a program aimed at supporting veteran entrepreneurs.
• Pitch contests are held to help veterans secure funding for their businesses.
• DAV is involved in legislative advocacy for veterans' rights and benefits.
• The organization offers a wide range of services, including career fairs and scholarships.
• Community building is a key aspect of the Patriot Boot Camp experience.
• Mentorship is crucial for veterans transitioning to entrepreneurship.
• Veterans are encouraged to take advantage of the benefits they have earned.

Visit https://patriotbootcamp.org/ for more information on Patriot Boot Camp and https://www.dav.org/ for other resources that DAV offers to the Veteran Community.

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Join us in Episode 35 for an inspiring and strategic conversation with Gerry Gadoury, a former U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant and Signals Intelligence Operator turned recruitment expert and founder of RedBeard Solutions. Drawing on nearly three decades of experience in recruitment, management consulting, leadership, and entrepreneurship—and informed by success scaling startups like Apisero—Gerry has made it his mission to help small and early-stage businesses become Destination Employers, building cohesive pipelines that attract, recruit, and retain world-class teams.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How Gerry’s Marine leadership experience shaped his holistic approach to talent strategy.
• The power and structure of the Destination Employer Methodology—covering attraction, recruitment, and retention phases.
• Why integrating talent acquisition into leadership and HR is critical, and how misalignment can lead to churn.
• Practical strategies for startups and small businesses to empower recruiters, cultivate trust, and build high-performing, long-lasting teams.

Whether you’re a founder, HR leader, or startup enthusiast, Gerry’s grounded insights offer a roadmap to transform your people strategy and build a thriving, people-first organization.

Also check out his book Destination Employer: Attract, Recruit, and Retain the Top Talent in your market.

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In this special recap episode, Julie and Matt sit down to revisit the last three powerful conversations:
• Ep 31 – Brent Bowers, The Landshark 🦈: breaking down how land investing can create freedom and opportunity.
• Ep 32 – Larry Wilson, Deep Blue Dive Therapy 🌊: exploring innovative therapies and the lessons of resilience from the ocean.
• Ep 33 – Chris Wallingford, Metafora Group 🚪: insights on leadership, growth, and pushing through even when the doors keep opening (literally).

But that’s not all — we’ve got bonus content with Don Yurick, franchise owner of Hammer & Nails, the men’s grooming concept designed for comfort, style, and confidence. Don shares why Hammer & Nails is a perfect franchise fit for veterans looking to step into entrepreneurship with a proven model.

Tune in for a mix of reflection, laughs, and fresh insights to fuel your own business journey.

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In this episode, Chris Wallingford, a U.S. Army veteran and owner of Metafora Group, shares his journey from military service to entrepreneurship. He discusses the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, the establishment of his staffing company, and the importance of mentorship and core values in business. Chris also highlights the role of the American Legion in supporting veterans and offers advice for those looking to start their own businesses.

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In this powerful episode, Marine Corps veteran Larry Wilson — founder and CEO of Deep Blue Dive Therapy, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to supporting veterans and first responders suffering from PTSD through therapeutic scuba diving — joins us to share the depths of his mission. As a decorated veteran turned mental health advocate, Larry reveals how underwater immersion can transform trauma, rebuild community, and restore purpose. Tune in as he unpacks his journey from service to service, the founding of Deep Blue Dive Therapy, and how embracing calm beneath the waves has helped countless warriors emerge stronger and more resilient. Discover how this life-changing approach offers peace where hypervigilance once ruled, and learn how we can all support the ripple effect of healing.

Resources & support: Deep Blue Dive Therapy (DBDT) — Deep Blue Dive Therapy Inc is a U.S.-registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Windermere, FL, dedicated to helping active-duty service members, veterans, and first responders suffering from PTSD through scuba therapy and related programs.

Check out Deep Blue Dive Therapy website for more information: https://www.deepbluedivetherapy.org/

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This week on DogTags to Ownership, Matt and Julie sit down with Brent Bowers - a former Army officer turned real estate investor and land flipping expert. Brent shares how he transitioned from active duty to full-time entrepreneur, building The Land Sharks coaching business and amassing passive income through strategic land deals.

Tune in as Brent reveals how military discipline shaped his mindset, the steps he took to replace his active-duty income, and how he now helps others - especially veterans - achieve financial freedom through land investing. Whether you're curious about real estate or looking for your post-service path, this episode is packed with insights and motivation you won't want to miss.

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