Meeting Purpose

Kevin K, owner of Bombed Out Barbecue, about his journey from military service to competitive barbecue and entrepreneurship.

Key Takeaways

•Kevin's passion for cooking, especially barbecue, was cultivated through his military upbringing and international experiences

•Military experience provided Kevin with discipline, attention to detail, and patience that translate well to barbecue

•Kevin is pursuing competitive barbecue as a path to eventual restaurant ownership, balancing passion with pragmatic business growth

•Barbecue competitions offer a mix of skill development, networking, and potential for brand exposure

Topics

Kevin's Background and Culinary Journey

•Grew up in a military family, moving frequently (Turkey, Germany, US)

•Learned to cook out of necessity and curiosity for diverse cuisines

•Joined Air Force after 9/11, transitioned to intelligence work

•Four-year deployment to Afghanistan (2009-2013) solidified interest in cooking as a coping mechanism and passion

Transition to Barbecue Focus

•Mentored by Aaron Franklin (Franklin Barbecue, Austin) around 2014

•Started competing in local barbecue competitions

•Launched Bombed Out Barbecue brand, focusing on competition circuit

•Plans to compete in 12+ events in 2024, including major competitions like Memphis in May and Kansas City Royal

Barbecue Competition Insights

•Competitions typically run Friday-Sunday

•Meat prep takes about an hour per cut (e.g., brisket)

•Cooking process for brisket takes about 12 hours plus resting time

•Judging based on appearance, taste, and tenderness

•Competitions offer networking, skill development, and brand exposure opportunities

Business Development Strategy

•Currently focused on competitions and catering

•Building brand recognition through social media and competitions

•Long-term goal of opening a brick-and-mortar restaurant

•Balancing passion for barbecue with pragmatic business growth

Barbecue Techniques and Tips

•Uses 3-2-1 method for ribs (3 hours smoke, 2 hours wrapped, 1 hour unwrapped)

•Achieves glaze on ribs without sauce using butter, maple syrup, and brown sugar during wrap phase

•Emphasizes importance of meat quality and proper temperature control

•Recommends patience and practice to perfect barbecue skills

Next Steps

•Kevin to focus on upcoming barbecue competitions in 2024

•Expand social media presence and brand awareness

•Pursue opportunities for TV appearances on barbecue competition shows

•Continue refining barbecue techniques and recipes

•Evaluate long-term plans for potential brick-and-mortar restaurant

Summary

Childhood and early influences

Paul Volpe grew up in a working-class Italian immigrant

family in Cleveland, Ohio and later Appleton, Wisconsin. His father and foster

father, both military veterans, were influential role models who instilled in

him the values of hard work, discipline, and service. As a shy, introverted

youth, Paul transformed into an extroverted, athletic young man through his

involvement in sports and community activities.

Military journey and leadership development @ 7:09

Paul joined the Army Reserves while in college, initially

serving as an armor crewman. He excelled in the military, becoming a drill

sergeant, master fitness trainer, and recruiter. Paul's military experience

taught him the value of adaptability, teamwork, and servant leadership. He held

leadership roles like Sergeant Major and was selected to attend the prestigious

Sergeant Major's Academy, which further honed his skills.

Transition to entrepreneurship @ 23:36

As Paul neared retirement from the Army, he began

exploring entrepreneurial opportunities that would allow him to continue

serving the military community. He leveraged his experience in the Army's PACE

program, which connected employers with military talent, to start his own

company, Forward March Inc. (FMI), in 2013. FMI's mission is to help employers

build effective military hiring and retention programs.

Building and evolving the business @ 29:09

In the early years, Paul partnered with two others to

launch FMI, navigating challenges like defining roles, ownership, and funding.

The company initially had multiple service lines but later streamlined to focus

on talent solutions, elite leadership training, and custom Humvee sales. FMI

has weathered storms like the COVID-19 pandemic by adapting its offerings and

operations. Paul emphasizes the importance of maintaining a clear mission,

empowering his team, and continuously evolving the business.

Advice and reflections @ 1:29:40

Paul shares advice for other veteran entrepreneurs,

including the value of internship/work-study programs, building an advisory

board, and maintaining a positive, servant-leadership mindset even in difficult

times. He reflects on the importance of work-life balance, leveraging his

military experience, and finding fulfillment in making a difference for the

veteran community and FMI's clients.

Meeting Purpose

To interview Frank Manteau, a Marine Corps veteran and entrepreneur, about his life experiences and business journey with Mil Treats.

Key Takeaways

Frank overcame a challenging upbringing to join the Marines, which provided structure and purpose. After leaving the military, Frank struggled to find direction but eventually founded Mil Treats, creating edible chocolate crayons and other military-themed products. Frank's entrepreneurial journey has been driven by resilience, adaptability, and a desire to educate others about military culture. Key success factors include embracing failure, maintaining passion, and focusing on creating a positive legacy.

Topics

Early Life and Military Service

Grew up in small-town Flushing, Ohio with limited opportunities. Joined Marines directly after high school despite having a full art school scholarship. Served 7.5 years before medical discharge due to back injury. Military provided structure, purpose, and transferable skills.

Transition to Civilian Life

Initially struggled to find direction after leaving military

Worked various jobs while raising two children as a single father

Moved family to California for a fresh start. Gradually rediscovered passion for creativity through woodworking.

Founding of Mil Treats

Inspired by social media jokes about Marines eating crayons

Created world's first edible, colorable chocolate crayons in 2017

Expanded product line to include military-themed coffee, salt/pepper shakers

Focus on educating civilians about military culture through products

Business Challenges and Growth

Overcame initial regulatory hurdles ($10k in violations)

Secured $20k grant from Warrior Rising for business development

Currently facing supply chain issues due to global chocolate shortage

Exploring new product ideas like "MilitaryLabs" storytelling game

Entrepreneurial Mindset

Emphasizes importance of passion and willingness to work for free

Views setbacks as opportunities for growth and problem-solving

Focuses on creating a positive legacy for his children and grandchildren

Advocates for empathy and understanding different perspectives

Next Steps

Explore new manufacturing options to address chocolate supply issues

Launch planned new products like dog tag chocolates and "Military Labs" game

Increase participation in live events to connect directly with customers

Consider developing speaking/coaching career to share entrepreneurial insights

Meeting Purpose

Podcast interview with veteran entrepreneur Bob Hildreth about his journey and business Two Homeless Vets

• Bob founded Two Homeless Vets to help transition homeless veterans into stable housing and employment through community support, skills training, and entrepreneurship opportunities
• The organization uses a dual non-profit/for-profit model to provide services and generate revenue through house flipping and fencing projects
• Bob emphasizes the importance of identity, community, and healing for veterans transitioning to civilian life
• The business aims to create a large-scale "heroes village" in North Carolina to support 5,000-7,500 homeless veterans

• Served in U.S. Army and Army Reserve from 1986-1994
• Originally trained as an 18D (Special Forces Medic) but became an airborne medic due to injury
• Influenced by early mentor who was one of the original Green Berets
• Experienced homelessness and PTSD after leaving the military

• Lack of structured plan and support when leaving military
• Loss of identity tied to military service
• Need for community and purpose in civilian life
• Difficulty adapting to less regimented civilian environment

• For-profit arm provides job training and employment through fencing and house flipping projects
• Non-profit arm (Healing Crayons) allows for land acquisition and grant funding
• Plans to develop food truck program to provide entrepreneurship opportunities for veterans
• Offers up to 2-year residency in transition centers for veterans to heal and develop skills

Summary

Amanda's background and upbringing @ 0:00

Amanda was born and raised in Houston, Texas, the

only girl in a family of three brothers. She had a challenging upbringing,

with an absent father who was a convicted felon. Her grandparents and a

supportive high school teacher, Miss Foster, were influential in her life and

inspired her to want to help others. Amanda was initially

interested in becoming a doctor, but later pursued firefighting and joined

the Army, though her military service was cut short due to injury.

Transitioning from military to entrepreneurship @ 5:23

After leaving the military, Amanda worked as an

executive assistant at the Houston Boat Show, where she gained valuable

experience in sales, marketing, and entrepreneurship. This experience,

combined with her desire to help veterans, led her to start her own

organization, Veterans Helping Veterans MOCO, in April 2022.

The Veterans Helping Veterans MOCO organization @ 32:14

Veterans Helping Veterans MOCO is a semi-annual event that

provides resources, employment opportunities, and recreational activities for

veterans and their families. The organization aims to help veterans navigate

the transition to civilian life, access benefits and services, and prevent

veteran homelessness. The events feature vendors, live music, food, and

activities for children, all in a secure and comfortable environment for

veterans.

Challenges and lessons learned @ 47:41

Amanda has faced challenges in her entrepreneurial

journey, such as dealing with rejections and learning to accept

"no" responses from potential sponsors or vendors. However, she has

learned to be persistent, network effectively, and adapt her sales pitch to

overcome these obstacles. She emphasizes the importance of learning from

setbacks and maintaining a positive, grateful attitude.

Future plans and event details @ 55:31

Amanda plans

To continue hosting these events twice a year, with the larger fall event

focused on growing the organization and potentially moving to a larger venue

like the Montgomery County Fairgrounds in the future.

Episode: From Marine to Business Owner – Jeff Merkel’s Journey

Meeting Purpose

In this episode of Battlefield to Business, we interview Marine Corps veteran Jeff Merkel about his transition from military service to entrepreneurship, building a thriving garage door business, and leveraging his military background for success.

Key Takeaways

• Jeff transitioned from military service to entrepreneurship, launching Iconic Exteriors in 2020 and rapidly scaling to six figures in six months.
• He emphasizes authenticity, adaptability, and relationship-driven marketing over traditional business plans.
• Veteran entrepreneurs can build clientele through military networks, social media engagement, and local community groups.
• The garage door industry has low barriers to entry but faces challenges from unregulated competition.
• Success requires self-discipline, personal branding, and customer trust, skills many veterans already possess.

Topics Covered

🛠 Jeff’s Military and Business Background

• Grew up in California, faced early struggles before enlisting in the Marine Corps.
• Worked various jobs post-service before gaining industry experience.
• Started Iconic Exteriors leveraging existing industry knowledge and relationships.

📢 Marketing and Client Acquisition for Veteran-Owned Businesses

• Uses Facebook, veteran groups, and neighborhood networks to drive sales.
• Relies on word-of-mouth referrals and military connections for steady growth.
• Prioritizes authenticity, trust, and professionalism over aggressive sales tactics.

🏗 Overcoming Industry Challenges as a Veteran Entrepreneur

• Faces competition from unregulated operators and pricing undercutting.
• Stands out by offering consistent pricing, quality service, and reliability.
• Adapts to market changes with flexibility and faith in the process.

🎖 Business Mindset for Military Veterans

• Encourages veterans considering entrepreneurship to take action despite fear.
• Stresses the importance of military discipline, adaptability, and networking.
• Reminds veterans to use their military background but not be defined by it.

Next Steps

• Connect with Jeff Merkel on TikTok & Instagram: @iconic_merkel
• Veteran entrepreneurs interested in service-based businesses should explore local markets.
• Continue following Battlefield to Business for more insights from veterans turned entrepreneurs.

Meeting Purpose

Conduct a podcast interview with Anthony Griffith about his journey from military service to entrepreneurship in the life insurance industry, showcasing valuable insights for veteran entrepreneurs.

Key Takeaways

• Anthony transitioned from military intelligence to life insurance, driven by a desire for purpose and helping others, making it an inspiring path for veterans exploring entrepreneurship.
• The life insurance industry offers significant opportunities, with only half of Americans currently insured, presenting a lucrative and impactful business sector.
• Success in life insurance requires passion, continuous learning, and a focus on educating clients rather than just selling, making it an ideal field for veterans leveraging their leadership and communication skills.
• Building a team and brokerage allows for greater impact, but requires aligning others with your vision—a challenge and opportunity for veteran entrepreneurs.

Topics

Anthony's Background and Military Career

• Originally from Pomona, California, Anthony moved to Georgia in high school.
• He graduated with a chemistry degree, then enlisted in the military as an intelligence analyst, developing analytical and leadership skills transferable to entrepreneurship.
• Anthony served in various roles, including special operations, reaching the rank of sergeant, before commissioning as an officer in field artillery. After nearly a decade of service, he transitioned into civilian life.

Transition to Entrepreneurship

• Anthony's wife started a life insurance business in 2014, which he joined full-time after leaving the military in 2022.
• He initially considered pursuing a master's degree but instead focused on scaling the existing business, showcasing the entrepreneurial mindset veterans can adopt.
• His military background in analysis and strategy proved invaluable in navigating the financial services industry.

Life Insurance Industry Overview

• The life insurance industry, with approximately 400,000 agents in the U.S., has vast potential as half of Americans remain uninsured.
• Becoming a life insurance agent involves completing an online course, passing a state exam, and obtaining a license, making it an accessible entry point for veterans.
• Average commission rates are 65-70%, with significant growth opportunities for agents willing to invest in team building and client education.

Keys to Success in Life Insurance

• Passion for helping and educating people about financial protection is a cornerstone of success in the life insurance industry.
• Building a strong community and team expands reach and impact, a principle rooted in military teamwork.
• Continuous personal growth and learning ensure long-term success.
• Prioritizing education and value over sales tactics aligns well with veterans' integrity and mission-driven mindset.
• Balancing work and family life, while emphasizing personal fulfillment, resonates with many transitioning service members.

Challenges and Advice for New Agents

• Entrepreneurship requires self-motivation and discipline, traits instilled in military training.
• Building a team with a shared vision can be challenging but is essential for scaling a successful business.
• Overcoming the perception that life insurance is something that must be "sold" is crucial.
• Emphasizing client education and delivering value helps establish trust and long-term relationships.
• Finding personal passion and purpose within the industry is key to thriving as an entrepreneur.

Next...

Guest: David Jones

Background & Military Transition

David, a Marine Corps veteran and drone entrepreneur, shares his journey from military service to running a successful drone business. His transition began with an interest in aviation and drone technology, leading him to obtain his Part 107 commercial drone license. Despite initial uncertainty, he leveraged his military background and networking skills to break into the industry.

Breaking Into the Drone Industry

David’s early days in drones involved content creation—posting aerial footage on YouTube to sharpen his skills and attract potential clients. His breakthrough came when a former military connection offered him an opportunity with a commercial drone services company. This led to consistent contract work and industry exposure.

Finding a Profitable Niche

David experimented with different drone applications, including real estate photography, power line inspections, and insurance claims assessments, before specializing in:

• Roof Inspections
• Construction Progress Documentation
• Drone Mapping & Surveying

He stresses the importance of specializing to avoid being stretched too thin in an industry with numerous opportunities.

Challenges & Growth Strategies

Like many veteran entrepreneurs, David’s biggest challenge was client acquisition. While he secures work through Fly Guys, an independent drone contractor network, he is actively building his own direct client base through social media marketing, LinkedIn networking, and outreach. He also strategizes by targeting services with repeat business potential, such as ongoing construction site documentation and solar panel inspections.

Advice for Veterans Entering the Drone Business

David shares practical tips for veterans looking to enter the drone industry:

• Start with a reliable drone (DJI Mini series for beginners, DJI Mavic or Matrice for professional work).
• Buy used equipment if needed to keep costs down.
• Understand airspace regulations and flight restrictions before taking on commercial clients.
• Leverage military discipline and networking skills to stand out in the market.

Future Goals & Scaling the Business

David is now exploring government contracting opportunities, aiming to leverage veteran-owned business certifications to secure long-term contracts. He encourages fellow veterans to pursue continuous learning and stay ahead of industry trends.

Key Takeaways for Veteran Entrepreneurs

1. Use social media and content marketing to build your brand.
2. Specialize in a profitable niche to maximize efficiency and revenue.
3. Leverage your military network to uncover unexpected opportunities.
4. Think long-term—anticipate recurring client needs for sustained business.
5. Invest smartly in equipment—quality drones make a difference