Joe was born in Memphis, Tennessee and grew up in Chicago. His grandfather, a WWII veteran, was a major influence and role model for him. Joe was a quiet, introverted youth who got involved in journalism and the military cadet program, which helped him become more extroverted and develop leadership skills.

Joe joined the Navy as a journalist, serving on ships, in Iceland, and in San Francisco. He covered major events like the San Francisco earthquake and the Iran Air Flight 655 incident. Joe's military experience taught him resilience, adaptability, and the importance of service to others.

After leaving the Navy, Joe struggled to find his footing, going bankrupt and becoming briefly homeless. He eventually started a resume writing business for veterans, but it was not sustainable. This led him to take on various training and facilitation roles, including with the military's base realignment and closure process.

Joe founded Camp Liberty, a 75-acre patriotic training venue and military summer camp. He discusses the challenges of running a facility like this without government funding, the importance of passionate staff, and the impact the camp has on young people, with 68% of repeat campers going on to serve.

Joe's passion is serving those who have worn the uniform, whether through the camp programs or other outreach. He is driven by the positive impact he can have on young people and veterans, and his belief in service to country and community.

1. Guest Background:

Yamil is the founder of Leaders Make Leaders, a business centered around leadership development and financial services. He helps individuals and families create financial plans, focusing on investments, insurance, and mortgages. Yamil's business goes beyond typical financial advising by offering free financial planning and charging for products and services only when needed, fostering trust and long-term relationships. His vision is to grow an organization of leaders, providing opportunities for others to build their own teams and agencies. Through his business model, Yamil emphasizes leadership, not just salesmanship, and seeks to create a strong culture of mentorship and growth.

2. Key Points Discussed:

• Transition Planning: Yamil stresses the importance of planning at least a year ahead of time for a smooth transition from military to civilian life.
• Building an Agency vs. Salesperson Role: In his industry, Yamil highlights the value of building an agency with a team rather than being just a salesperson. By developing a group of agents, it's possible to create a sustainable, scalable business model that generates consistent income.
• Steps to Start in Financial Services: Yamil walks through the process of becoming licensed in the financial industry—either by self-funding the licensing or finding an organization that will sponsor it. He encourages aspiring financial professionals to take action, even if unsure at first, as the experience will be valuable regardless of the outcome.
• Leadership in Business: At the core of his business is the principle of leadership development. Yamil's goal is to help his team members grow into leadership roles and build their own teams, leading to financial success for everyone involved.

3. Takeaways for the Audience:

• Preparation is Key: Starting early and preparing for the transition from military to civilian life is essential for success.
• Mentorship Matters: Finding a mentor who has been successful in the field can significantly accelerate personal growth and understanding.
• Go All In: Committing to your passion and taking the necessary steps—whether through formal education or hands-on experience—is the best way to discover if it’s the right path for you.
• Dream Big: Set ambitious goals that not only drive personal success but also impact others positively.

4. Way Ahead for Leaders Make Leaders:

Yamil’s vision is to build an organization where 43 people are earning at least $1 million per year. This goal is driven by his desire to not only generate wealth but also to use it to support charitable causes, such as foster care, and create a lasting impact in the world. He sees financial success as a tool to make a difference, with the ultimate goal being to have his business transform lives both professionally and personally.

Find Yamil:

Social Media: @LeadersMakeLeaders

Website: LeadersMakeLeaders.org

This episode is a powerful example of how passions can evolve and how with the right mindset and preparation, anyone—especially veterans—can transition into a thriving business, no matter when they start. Yamil's leadership-driven approach offers valuable insights for anyone looking to create meaningful change in their own lives and businesses.

• Alan transitioned from Army infantry to entrepreneurship, leveraging skills like leadership, structure, and creativity
• His company, Faction Media IO, helps veteran-owned businesses with marketing and scaling, offering services like web design, CRM, and advertising
• Key challenges: establishing legitimacy as a new company and balancing authenticity with professionalism
• Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs: partner with others, be willing to provide free value, and expect 6-12 months before seeing significant results

• Academically gifted but restless student who joined Army infantry (11B) for 3.5 years
• Chose infantry despite high ASVAB scores, seeking physical and mental challenge
• Military experience taught valuable skills: communication, organization, leadership
• Struggled with frequent moves and forming lasting relationships growing up

• Attempted college and law enforcement career path after military, but found it unfulfilling
• Worked various jobs for 6 years before launching Faction Media IO 4 months ago
• Entrepreneurial spark ignited by multi-level marketing experience, despite skepticism
• Made leap to full-time entrepreneurship due to dissatisfaction with employment and desire for autonomy

• Marketing company specializing in helping veteran-owned businesses scale
• Services: website development, CRM, sales, advertising, social media management
• Offers discounts for veteran-owned businesses
• Generated ~$500k revenue in first 4 months, considered impressive for new company