Shows
DogTags to OwnershipEpisode 29 - From Operations to Ownership: Christopher McKinney's Mission Beyond the UniformSend us a textIn Episode 29 of DogTags to Ownership, Matt and Julie sit down with Christopher Mckinney - Retired U.S. Army Veteran and Founder of OpSynergy - to dive into his powerful journey from the frontlines to founding his own business. Christopher shares how the core principles of project management, strategic certification, and strong mentorship helped shaped his path to entrepreneurship. This episode is packed with valuable insights for veterans navigating their transition to civilian life. From leveraging programs like Army ignited, to building networks that matter, Christopher offers a...2025-07-2237 minDogTags to OwnershipEpisode 28 - From Infantry to Industry: How Sean Loosen Is Transforming Optical SolutionsSend us a textIn this episode of DogTags to Ownership, we sit down with Sean Loosen, a U.S. Army veteran and West Point graduate who took the lessons of leadership, discipline, and grit from the infantry field to the forefront of the optical industry.As the Owner and CEO of PDS Optical, Sean shares how his military background shaped his entrepreneurial mindset, the challenges of scaling a specialized manufacturing company, and why serving others—whether in uniform or through business—remains his driving purpose.From combat boots to custom lenses, Sean’s stor...2025-07-1542 minDogTags to OwnershipEpisode 27 - From the Gunny to the Grain: Wesley Hutchinson's Journey with Whiskey Run CustomsSend us a textIn this episode, Wesley Hutchinson shares his inspiring journey from being a United States Marine Corps veteran to becoming a successful entrepreneur with his business, Whiskey Run Customs. He discusses the challenges of transitioning from military life to civilian life, the importance of community support, and the growth of his woodworking business. Wesley emphasizes the significance of pursuing one's passion and the lessons learned along the way, including the impact of COVID-19 on small businesses and the importance of maintaining a work-life balance.If you've ever wondered how to channel your...2025-07-0841 minDogTags to OwnershipEpisode 26 - Turning Service into Impact: How Veterans Lead Through Ownership and PurposeSend us a textIn this special recap episode, Julie and Matt connect the dots across Episodes 23 to 25, highlighting how each guest embodies the power of transforming service into impact. From Leroy Roberts, Founder & CEO of Team Worth Solutions, to Kimberly Jung, CEO of Blanchard House, and Patrick Flood, Founder & CEO of Owners in Honor of — these veterans are leading with purpose, building businesses, and creating real-world change.Plus, stay tuned for bonus content with Joshua I. Altman, Founder & CEO of Beltway Media. Josh shares why businesses require effective storytelling is critical for veterans to be...2025-07-0135 minDogTags to OwnershipEpisode 25 - From Combat Boots to Company Ownership: Patrick Flood’s Mission to Empower Veteran OwnersSend us a textIn this episode of DogTags to Ownership, hosts Julie and Matt sit down with U.S. Army veteran and the visionary Founder and CEO of Owners in Honor. Patrick shares his remarkable journey from serving in the Army Reserves to answering the call to active duty after 9/11—and how those formative experiences ignited his passion for service beyond the uniform.Now, through Owners in Honor, Patrick is on a mission to help veterans turn their DogTags into deeds of ownership by guiding them through entrepreneurship through acquisition (ETA). Learn how Patrick’s pr...2025-06-2451 minDogTags to OwnershipEpisode 24 - Purpose in Action: From West Point to the World with Kimberly JungSend us a textIn Episode 24 of DogTags to Ownership, Julie and Matt sit down with the incredible Kimberly Jung — West Point graduate, Army veteran, Harvard Business School alum, and serial entrepreneur. Kimberly shares her remarkable journey from leading convoys in Afghanistan to co-founding Rumi Spice, a company that empowers Afghan farmers and women by bringing premium saffron to the global market.She also reflects on her time as a board member of Bunker Labs, where she helped build pathways for veteran entrepreneurs, and talks about her latest role as CEO of Blanchard House, a co...2025-06-1742 minDogTags to OwnershipEpisode 23 - Leading with Purpose: Leroy Roberts on Breaking Barriers, Building Teams & BusinessSend us a textIn Episode 23 of DogTags to Ownership, hosts Matt and Julie welcome Leroy Roberts—a dynamic veteran, leadership strategist, coach, author, and non-executive director. With nearly two decades of service spanning the Jamaica Constabulary Force and the British Army, Leroy brings a unique global perspective Leroy dives into:His transition from disciplined military service to becoming a sought-after C‑suite team leadership strategistHow he’s harnessed military values to help organizations build high‑trust, high‑performance teamsHis journey into mentorship and financial inclusion through roles like non‑exec director at London Mutual Credit...2025-06-1043 minDogTags to OwnershipEpisode 22 - Purpose, Identity & Ownership: Recapping Powerful Veteran Voices + Bonus Insight on Franchising with D’Wayne TannerSend us a textIn this powerful recap episode, Julie and Matt reflect on three incredible conversations that brought heart, grit, and strategy to the forefront of veteran transition.They revisit:Episode 19 with Barrett Bogue of Evocati PREpisode 20 with Jerry Arteaga of Valor Exterior PartnersEpisode 21 with Joshua Cantrell of MVMT FinancialJulie and Matt go deeper on two themes that connect all three stories: Purpose and Identity after the military—and how rediscovering both is essential for growth and fulfillment in civilian life.BONUS CONTENT:They’re joined by D’Wa...2025-06-0328 minDogTags to OwnershipEpisode 21 - From Boots to Blueprints: Joshua Cantrell's Mission to Empower Veterans FinanciallySend us a textIn this compelling episode, we sit down with Joshua Cantrell, a retired U.S. Army veteran and the founder of MVMT Financial. With over two decades of military service, Joshua brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the unique financial challenges faced by veterans and their families.Joshua shares his journey from military life to entrepreneurship, highlighting how his passion for service led him to establish MVMT Financial. His firm specializes in strategic financial planning tailored for veterans, focusing on providing alternatives to traditional options like VGLI and...2025-05-2744 minDogTags to OwnershipEpisode 20 - From the Frontlines to Foundations - Building with Purpose w/ Jerry ArteagaSend us a textIn this powerful episode of DogTags to Ownership, we sit down with retired Special Forces Sergeant Major Jerry Arteaga, now CEO of Valor Exterior Partners and board member of Owners in Honor. Jerry shares his journey from leading elite teams in combat to leading crews in construction, showing how the values forged in service—discipline, grit, and honor—translate directly into entrepreneurial success.We explore:How Jerry built Valor Exterior Partners from the ground upHis leadership philosophy shaped by years in Special OperationsHis commitment to supporting veteran business owners through Owne...2025-05-2040 minDogTags to OwnershipEpisode 19 - Purpose-Driven PR with Barrett Bogue: Amplifying Voices Through EvocatiSend us a textIn this episode of DogTags to Ownership, we sit down with Barrett Bogue, former Marine and founder of Evocati PR -- a public relations firm on a mission. Barrett shares how his military background inspired him to build a communications agency that goes beyond the bottom line, offering cost-efficient strategies to activate and inspire underserved communities. From veteran advocacy to social impact storytelling, learn how Evocati empowers organizations to connect with purpose and make real change. Learn more about Barrett's work at https://www.evocatillc.com/S...2025-05-1345 minDogTags to OwnershipEpisode 18 - Real Talk, Reflections & Final SalutesSend us a textRecapping Three Powerful Stories & Matt’s Raw Transition JourneyIn this special recap episode, Matt and Julie reflect on the last three impactful interviews with John & Mitchell of High Country Living, Wendy Brinson of The Goddard School in Stafford, and Zac Staples of Fathom5. Each conversation brought powerful insights on building purpose-driven businesses after military life—and we’re bringing the highlights.They also share behind-the-scenes thoughts on their guest appearance on the Triple Threat Vets podcast, and Matt opens up about his final days in uniform. From shifting priori...2025-05-0630 minDogTags to OwnershipEpisode 17 - Navigating Innovation: From Naval Officer to Tech Founder with Zac StaplesSend us a textIn this episode of DogTags to Ownership, Matt and Julie sit down with Zac Staples, founder and CEO of Fathom5, a company at the cutting edge of cybersecurity and advanced manufacturing for critical infrastructure. Zac shares his journey from a career in the Navy to launching and scaling a tech-driven business, the lessons learned in leadership, and how military skills translate into building high-performance teams in the civilian world.Tune in as we dive deep into entrepreneurship, innovation, and how Zac’s mission-first mindset continues to make waves far beyond his ti...2025-04-2949 min
Triple Threat Vets PodcastEpisode 97: Matt Cain & Julie AustinCheck out their Podcast here:https://open.spotify.com/show/1w037Ym674JlgYHaeT1ZlY?si=0e9c2406fde54b18Julie is an active-duty Army officer, currently serving as a lieutenant colonel and battalion commander. Beyond her military career, she is a dynamic entrepreneur, founding three impactful ventures: DogTags to Ownership LLC, ANA Consulting Company LLC, and Austin’s Sandcastles LLC.With a deep passion for leadership, Julie is dedicated to empowering others to grow professionally and achieve their goals and dreams. Her mission is to inspire success through guidance, me...2025-04-251h 44DogTags to OwnershipEpisode 16 - From Service to Success - Wendy Brinson's Mission to EducateSend us a textIn this inspiring episode, Matt and Julie sit down with Wendy Brinson, retired Army veteran and powerhouse entrepreneur, who now owns and operates one of the top-performing Goddard Schools in the country, located in Stafford, VA. Wendy shares her incredible journey from military service to building a thriving early childhood education center, the lessons she’s carried over from the Army, and how she’s creating a lasting impact in her community.Tune in to hear how discipline, leadership, and heart have made Wendy’s Goddard School a national standout—and how you...2025-04-2234 minDogTags to OwnershipEpisode 15 - Rooted in Service, Growing in the High Country: John & Michele Swart’s Entrepreneurial JourneySend us a textIn this episode, we sit down with John and Michele Swart — a powerhouse duo redefining what life after service looks like. From John’s distinguished career as the NC National Guard’s Command Sergeant Major to the couple’s thriving ventures in real estate, short-term rentals, a tree farm, and their High Country Living YouTube channel — they’ve built a life rooted in purpose, family, and community.We talk about:Transitioning from military leadership to entrepreneurshipThe story behind their real estate business and mountain lifestyle brandLessons from running a tree farm...2025-04-1535 minDogTags to OwnershipEpisode 14 - Lessons from the Frontlines: Recapping Powerful Stories + Bonus Financial Tips for VetsSend us a textIn Episode 14, Matt and Julie sit down to reflect on the powerful insights and inspiring journeys shared in our last three episodes. We revisit key takeaways from Helen Perry of Dust Off Global, Kristen Kavanaugh of the Agency Initiative, and Freddy “Showbiz” McDuffy of K-FY Productions—each a force in their own space, bringing passion, purpose, and drive to their ventures after military service.But that’s not all—this episode also includes exclusive bonus content with financial advisor Michael Beardi, who delivers practical, must-know tips for service members and veterans looking to...2025-04-0830 minDogTags to OwnershipEpisode 13 - From Center Stage to Center Command: Freddy "Showbiz" McDuffy's Journey to Leadership and EntrepreneurshipSend us a textIn this episode of DogTags to Ownership, Matt and Julie sit down with Freddy "Showbiz" McDuffy, whose story is a testament to reseilience, leadership, and passion. Freddy shares his journey from serving in the Army Entertainment Detachment to achieving his goal of becoming a company First Sergenat. He opens up about his mental health struggles along the way and how he found strenght through his love for entertainment. Now, as the founder of K-FY Productions and set to graduate from the LA Film School in August, Freddy is turning his dreams in...2025-04-0142 minDogTags to OwnershipEpisode 12 - From the Corps to the Corporate World: Kristen Kavanaugh's Journey of Leadership and ImpactSend us a textIn Episode 12 of DogTags to Ownership, Matt and Julie sit down with Kristen Kavanaugh, a U.S. Naval Academy graduate and former Marine Corps Officer who served five years before transitioning to the corporate world. Kristen quickly rose through the ranks at Tesla, where she honed her leadership skills and made a lasting impact. Today, she is a sought-after advisor, speaker, and author, helping organizations foster inclusive environments and drive meaninful change. Tune in to hear Kristen's inspiring story and gain insights on how her military experience p...2025-03-2544 minDogTags to OwnershipEpisode 11 - From Battlefield to Boardroom: Helen Perry’s Mission with Dust Off GlobalSend us a textIn this episode of DogTags to Ownership, we sit down with Helen Perry, a former Army nurse turned entrepreneur and leader. As the founder of Dust Off Global, Helen has dedicated her post-military career to providing critical healthcare consulting in austere and war-torn environments. But her impact doesn’t stop there. She also served on the board of a nonprofit, leading it from financial distress to stability—all while caring for her disabled husband, who suffers from a severe TBI. Join us as we discuss resilience, leadership, and the power of service-driven entrepreneurship.2025-03-1848 minDogTags to OwnershipEpisode Ten: Crafting your Perfect Pour - The Story Behind Bar Book App with Michael & DollySend us a textIn this episode of DogTags to Ownership, Julie and Matt sit down with Michael and Dolly, retired Army Veterans who served in the Judge Advocate Corps before diving into the world of entrepreneurship. After years of service, they turned their passion for spirits into The Bar Book App, an innovative app that builds users' flavor profiles and connects them with spirits and drinks tailored to their tastes. Join us as we discuss their transitino from military law to tech entrepreneurship, the challenges of breaking into the beverage industry, and how...2025-03-1146 minDogTags to OwnershipEpisode Nine - The Power of the Veteran-Owned Label & Key Takeaways from our GuestSend us a textIn this episode of DogTags to Ownership, Matt and Julie take a look back at the past three episodes featuring inspriring veteran entrepreneurs: Brielle and Cody from UnCaged Fitness, DJ Mike from Mike Solutions Entertainment, and Jenn and Calvin from Always Faithful Coffee. They revisit the key insights shared by each guest, from building a brand with purpose to overcoming the challenges of entrepreneurship. Plus, they dive into the benefits of obtaining the veteran-owned business designation - how to get it, what it means for your business, and the opportunities it u...2025-03-0424 minDogTags to OwnershipEpisode Eight - Brewing Success: Service, Grit, and Always Faithful Coffee with Jenn and Calvin TaylorSend us a textIn this episode of DogTags to Ownership, Matt and Julie sit down with Jenn and Calvin Taylor, the founders of Always Faithful Coffee. Calvin, a newly retired Marine after 20 years of service, and Jenn, an Army child with deep ties to the military community through her work with the USO, child development centers, and mental health support, share their journey of entrepreneurship.Founded in 2021, Always Faithful Coffee is more than just a business—it’s a mission to build community, one sip at a time. As they tran...2025-02-2549 minDogTags to OwnershipEpisode 7: From Service to CEO – DJ Mike’s 25-Year Journey with Mike SolutionsSend us a textIn this episode of DogTags to Ownership, we sit down with retired Army Sergeant Major DJ Mike, the founder of Mike Solutions. With an incredible 25-year track record of entrepreneurship while serving on active duty, DJ Mike shares how he successfully balanced military life and business ownership—eventually transitioning into full-time entrepreneurship after retirement.Join us as we discuss:- The challenges and rewards of running a business while serving - Lessons learned from 25 years of entrepreneurship - Tips for...2025-02-1848 minDogTags to OwnershipEpisode Six - Uncaging Success - How Cody & Brielle Savoy Built a Thriving Fitness CommunitySend us a textIn this episode of DogTags to Ownership, Matt and Julie sit down with Cody & Brielle Savoy, founders of Uncaged Fitness, to talk about how they built a gym that's more than just a place to work out - it's a community. From their entrepreneurial journey to the challenges of starting a business, they share insights on leadership, resilience, and creating a space where members feel like Family!#DogTagstoOwnership #UncagedFitness #VeteranEntrepreneurs #BuildingCommunity #FromServiceToSuccessSupport the showVisit our website: https://www.dogtags-to-ownership...2025-02-1140 minDogTags to OwnershipEpisode Five - Lessons in Taking Action - Lessons from our first three guestSend us a textIn episode 5 of DogTags to Ownership, Matt and Julie take a deep dive into the key insights from our first three guests - David Harrison, Joe Byerly, and Ashley Sankar. From leadership lessons and entrepreneurial strategies to personal growth and transition advice. This recap highlights the most impactful takeaways from their stories. Whether you're a leader, aspiring business owner, or navigating career transitions, this episode is packed with wisdom and actionable advice to help you on your journey. Tune in for a thoughtful discussion on the themes that emerged and how you can...2025-02-0326 minDogTags to OwnershipEpisode Four - From Shark Tank to Sustainable Style: Ashley Sankar's Journey with 1920 FashionSend us a textIn this episode of Dogtags to Ownership, we sit down with Ashley Sankar, the visionary founder of 1920 Fashion, Shark Tank guest, and former Army logistics officer who served for 9 years. Ashely shares how her military experience shaped her approach to leadership, problem-solving, and entrepreneurship. We dive into her journey of launching 1920 Fashion, her bold pitch on Shark Tank, and the challenges and triumphs of building a business rooted in sustainability. Whether you're a vereran, entrepreneur, or fan of powerful success stories, this episode is packed with insights and motivation you won't want to...2025-01-2845 minDogTags to OwnershipEpisode Three - From the Green Notebook to Lifelong Leadership with Joe ByerlySend us a textIn this episode of DogTags to Ownership, we sit down with Joe Byerly, retired Army officer and founder of From the Green Notebook. Joe shares the inspiring story of how he turned a simple idea in 2013 into a powerful platform for leader development and personal growth.Joe also opens up about his decision to retire from the Army at the right time, ensuring he could pursue his next purpose while continuing to impact others. From lessons learned in uniform to helping leaders navigate their own journeys, this conversation is packed with...2025-01-2136 minDogTags to OwnershipEpisode Two - Taking the Lead: Seizing Opportunities with David HarrisonSend us a textIn this inspiring episode of DogTags to Ownership, we’re joined by David Harrison, host of the Locked On Commanders podcast and beat writer for the Washington Commanders. David shares his journey from his early days to becoming a respected voice in sports media, offering valuable insights into what it takes to pursue your dreams.David dives deep into the importance of having the drive to succeed, emphasizing that achieving your goals isn’t just about waiting for opportunities—it’s about creating them. Whether you’re building a business, chasing a passion...2025-01-1430 min
DogTags to OwnershipEpisode One - Meet the HostsSend us a textEpisode 1: Welcome to DogTags to OwnershipIn our premiere episode, we lay the foundation for DogTags to Ownership, the podcast dedicated to empowering military members and veterans on their journey into entrepreneurship.Join us as we discuss the purpose behind the podcast and how it aims to inspire, educate, and connect those who are ready to turn their military discipline and experience into entrepreneurial success.You’ll also meet our incredible hosts, Julie Austin and Matthew Cain, both U.S. Army Officers with firsthand knowledge of the un...2025-01-0718 min