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.
