Veteran Led

What does it take for Veterans to transition from service into building a successful business?In this episode of Veteran Led, John S. Berry is joined by co-host Freddie Kim of MilSpec Talent to speak with Nick Ripplinger about Veteran entrepreneurship, leadership, and building a business after service.Nick shares his journey from military service into the business world and breaks down the mindset required to succeed as an entrepreneur. He discusses the realities of building a company from the ground up, navigating uncertainty, and developing the discipline needed to move forward even when outcomes are unclear.The conversation explores leadership, decision-making, and why taking action — even imperfect action — is critical to growth. Nick also highlights how Veterans can leverage their experience to create value, build strong teams, and pursue opportunities that align with their long-term goals.Guest Links:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-ripplinger-14160823 Website: https://nickripplinger.com Email: [email protected] more at ptsdlawyers.com

How do organizations unlock the full potential of Veteran talent — and why do so many still get it wrong?In this episode of Veteran Led, John S. Berry is joined by co-host Freddie Kim of MilSpec Talent to speak with Ryan Kuo about Veteran talent, workforce development, and building high-performing teams.Ryan shares his perspective on the gap between military leadership experience and corporate hiring practices, and why many organizations struggle to properly identify and utilize Veteran talent. He explains how Veterans bring discipline, adaptability, and mission focus — but often face challenges translating those strengths into corporate environments.The conversation explores leadership, hiring, and talent pipelines, along with practical ways organizations can build stronger teams by recognizing the value Veterans already bring. Ryan also discusses how Veterans can better communicate their experience, position their skills, and navigate career transitions more effectively.Guest Links:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankuoLearn more at ptsdlawyers.com

What does it take to build a business while raising a family, navigating military life, and refusing to lose yourself in the process?In this episode of Veteran Led, John S. Berry speaks with Andrea Singsaas, founder and CEO of The Tyne Group, about leadership, boundaries, and building a business that can move with military life. A longtime military spouse and mother of three, Andrea shares how she built her executive coaching company from a master bedroom closet, one client at a time, while moving around the world and back again.The conversation explores burnout, accountability, decision-making, and why so many leaders struggle to protect their time. Andrea explains how leaders can clarify what matters most, set non-negotiables, and stop saying yes to everything. She also breaks down the difference between chaotic leadership and effective leadership, and why candid communication, strong boundaries, and the right support system matter in both business and family life.This episode is a practical guide for Veterans, military spouses, and leaders who want to build something meaningful without losing themselves along the way.Guest Links:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreasingsaas/ Website: https://www.thetynegroup.com Instagram: @andreasingsaas Learn more at ptsdlawyers.com

What does it take to go from a family idea to Shark Tank — and keep growing after the cameras stop rolling?In this episode of Veteran Led, John S. Berry is joined by co-host Freddie Kim of Milspec to speak with Barbara Kent and Joanna Serra, the sister founders of Fundraiser Blankets. Barbara, a West Point graduate, Army Veteran, and military spouse, and Joanna, a former teacher, share how their immigrant upbringing, commitment to education, and willingness to say yes to opportunity helped them build a fast-growing company serving schools and sports teams nationwide.The conversation explores entrepreneurship, family business dynamics, fundraising innovation, and the mindset required to keep moving forward. Barbara and Joanna explain how Fundraiser Blankets disrupted a stale fundraising model by giving schools more flexibility, more value, and more profit potential. They also share the long road to Shark Tank, the power of manifestation, and why action matters more than waiting for the perfect plan.This episode is a practical reminder for Veterans and entrepreneurs alike: try everything, make the decision, and keep going.Learn more about Fundraiser Blankets:https://fundraiserblankets.comWatch Shark Tank Season 17, Episode 3 on Hulu or ABC.Learn more at ptsdlawyers.com

How can technology help families care for aging parents, disabled Veterans, or loved ones living far away?In this episode of Veteran Led, John S. Berry speaks with Chad Lacek, Marine Corps Veteran and CEO of Aging In Place Monitoring. Chad shares how his company uses modern monitoring technology to help families ensure the safety and well-being of loved ones who want to remain in their homes as they age.The conversation explores the concept of “aging in place,” the emotional and logistical challenges families face when caring for elderly parents, and how new tools can provide real-time insight into health, safety, and daily habits without being intrusive. Chad explains how these systems can help families monitor sleep patterns, medication adherence, movement, and health indicators while maintaining dignity and independence for those being cared for.Chad also reflects on leadership lessons from the Marine Corps, why respect and admiration define real leadership, and how Veterans can apply those lessons when building businesses and serving their communities.Learn more about Aging In Place Monitoring: https://aipmonitoring.comLearn more at ptsdlawyers.com

What does 30 years of service in uniform teach you about leadership — and how does that shape the decision to run for Congress?In this episode of Veteran Led, John S. Berry speaks with Kishla Askins, a Navy Veteran who served 30 years as a Physician Associate, including extensive service with the Marine Corps. A Mustang who began her career enlisted and rose to senior leadership roles at the Pentagon and Department of Veterans Affairs, Kishla shares how her journey from corpsman to senior executive shaped her perspective on service and governance.The conversation explores combat medicine, the burden of command, leadership in large bureaucracies, and the importance of listening before leading. Kishla discusses her time writing legislation in the U.S. Senate, serving as Deputy Assistant Secretary at the VA, and why she believes Veterans bring a critical lens to public service.From battlefield triage to policy reform, this episode highlights how purpose, humility, and constitutional stewardship continue long after the uniform comes off.Guest Links:Kishla Askins for CongressLearn more at ptsdlawyers.com

What happens when the uniform comes off — and the team disappears?In this episode, John S. Berry speaks with Michael “Sully” Sullivan, Army Special Forces Veteran and Executive Director of Team Red, White & Blue (Team RWB), about building community and purpose after military service.Sully shares the origin story of Team RWB, how it grew from a small grassroots effort into a nationwide health and wellness movement, and why physical fitness remains one of the most powerful tools for resilience. He explains how Team RWB creates micro-communities inside local neighborhoods that restore identity, connection, and service for Veterans transitioning into civilian life.The conversation explores leadership lessons from Special Forces, the importance of humility, and why “freedom” is not isolation — it’s choosing to do hard things with people who push you forward. If you are looking for purpose, connection, or simply a reason to get moving again, this episode will resonate.Join Team RWB:Website: https://teamrwb.orgDownload the Team RWB app in the App Store or Google PlayLearn more at ptsdlawyers.com

What happens when a young Veteran is diagnosed with cancer after being misdiagnosed by the system meant to protect him?In this episode, John S. Berry speaks with Ashton and Casey Kroner, Marine Corps Veterans and founders of the Veteran Cancer Network, about the urgent need for earlier cancer detection in the Veteran community. After Casey was misdiagnosed at the VA and later diagnosed with testicular cancer at age 34, they began asking hard questions about age-based screening protocols and toxic exposure risks for post-9/11 Veterans.They discuss increased cancer risk among Veterans, gaps between active-duty and VA medical systems, and the importance of persistent self-advocacy in healthcare. Ashton and Casey also share the mission behind Pedal for Impact, a cycling initiative from Florida to Washington, DC to raise awareness and push for policy change.Support their initiative:https://www.change.org/EarlyDetectionForVeteransLearn more at ptsdlawyers.com

Some of the most critical leadership decisions in modern warfare happen far from the spotlight.In this episode, John S. Berry sits down with Mark Hasara, an Air Force Veteran, tanker pilot, author, and podcast host, to explore leadership lessons learned from the cockpit. Mark shares stories from his career flying the KC-135 Stratotanker, including missions during Desert Storm and later air campaigns where aerial refueling became the linchpin of success or failure.The conversation dives into courage under pressure, logistics as a decisive factor in warfare, and how intuitive expertise is built through training, repetition, and trust. Mark also discusses his book Tanker Pilot, which combines first-hand accounts with rare, color cockpit photography, and how capturing lessons learned ensures they are passed to the next generation. This episode offers perspective for Veterans, leaders, and professionals who want to understand how preparation, adaptability, and humility shape outcomes when the stakes are highest.Guest Links:Book inquiries: [email protected]: https://www.youtube.com/@markhasaraLearn more at ptsdlawyers.com

Why do so many high-performing Veterans struggle in corporate America — and what needs to change?In this episode, John S. Berry sits down with Jason Smith, an Air Force Veteran, business consultant, and nonprofit leader who has worked extensively with Veteran service organizations including FourBlock and Bunker Labs. Jason shares what he has seen over years of helping Veterans transition into corporate roles and why too many are being placed into environments that are not prepared to support them.The conversation explores the cultural gap between military service and corporate America, why Veterans often feel underutilized or misunderstood, and how organizations fail when they treat Veterans as a hiring initiative instead of a performance advantage. Jason also discusses entrepreneurship as a powerful alternative path, the responsibility Veterans have to show up prepared, and the responsibility corporations have to recognize and leverage Veteran leadership. This episode offers clear-eyed insight for Veterans navigating corporate careers, leaders building teams, and organizations seeking to unlock elite performance.Learn more at ptsdlawyers.comGuest Links:Website: https://futurevetconsulting.com

What happens when leadership is guided by values instead of convenience?In this episode, John S. Berry sits down with Colonel (Ret.) Kevin Miller, founder of Know Power Know Responsibility, to discuss leadership, critical thinking, and the responsibility that comes with personal and professional power. Drawing on more than three decades of military service and a civilian career in education and leadership development, Kevin explains how values-based decision-making shapes stronger individuals, organizations, and communities.The conversation explores critical thinking, accountability, vulnerability in leadership, and why taking responsibility only for what you can control reduces anxiety and strengthens resilience. Kevin also shares insights from his books, including Know Power, Know Responsibility and his upcoming release Superhero Nation, which focuses on helping people live their best lives while strengthening communities and the nation as a whole. This episode offers thoughtful perspective for Veterans, leaders, educators, and anyone seeking clarity, purpose, and integrity after service. Learn more at ptsdlawyers.comGuest Links:Website: https://knowresponsibility.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/knowresponsibility Instagram: @kevinmillerkpkr

Leadership after military service is not about rank or title. It is about purpose, resilience, and continuing to serve in meaningful ways.In this episode, John S. Berry sits down with Jason Dickinson, founder of Veterans on the River and Director of People and Leadership Development at DLB Associates, to discuss how Veterans can build purpose-driven lives after the uniform comes off. Jason shares his journey from combat arms and leadership roles in the Army to building both a civilian career and a Veteran-focused nonprofit.The conversation explores leadership development, resilience, and why creating space for reflection is critical for long-term growth. Jason explains how Veterans on the River uses outdoor experiences and leadership education to help Veterans reconnect with purpose, community, and self-awareness. This episode offers insight for Veterans searching for their next mission, leaders developing others, and anyone seeking to balance career, service, and personal fulfillment.Learn more at ptsdlawyers.com

Military leadership does not disappear after service, but it does require translation.In this episode, John S. Berry sits down with Christopher McKinney, an Army Veteran, founder of OpSynergy, and program manager at Stratevia, to discuss how Veterans can successfully bridge the gap between military experience and civilian careers. Chris shares how earning professional certifications, particularly the Project Management Professional (PMP), helped him transition, advance quickly, and ultimately build a Veteran-focused business.The conversation explores resume translation, professional credibility, leadership in corporate environments, and why Veterans should build base-level civilian skills before launching a business. Chris also explains how OpSynergy was created to ensure transitioning service members can earn certifications without financial barriers, and why doing “just a little more” than peers often sets Veterans apart. This episode offers practical, grounded advice for Veterans navigating transition, career growth, and entrepreneurship.Learn more at ptsdlawyers.comLearn more at https://opsynergy.net

Transitioning from military service to a civilian career is not about losing capability. It is about learning how to translate it.In this episode, John S. Berry sits down with Josh Atkinson, Partner and Chief Strategy Officer of PM ProLearn, to explore how Veterans can build professional credibility while still in uniform. Josh explains why the challenge Veterans face is not a capability gap, but a credibility gap — and how certifications and industry frameworks help bridge that divide.The conversation covers project management, professional certifications, leadership development, and why understanding civilian language, culture, and expectations is critical to long-term success. Josh also shares lessons on identity, trust-based leadership, and why Veterans should invest in themselves early instead of waiting until transition. This episode offers practical insight for active-duty service members, Guard and Reserve members, and Veterans preparing for their next chapter.Learn more at ptsdlawyers.com

What does leadership look like after military service, and how do Veterans continue serving at the national level?In this episode, John S. Berry sits down with Don Bacon, a retired Air Force Brigadier General and U.S. Representative, to discuss leadership, accountability, and public service after the uniform comes off. Congressman Bacon shares how military values shape his approach to decision-making, governance, and representing others.The conversation explores the transition from military command to public office, the responsibility of leadership in high-stakes environments, and why service does not end at retirement. Congressman Bacon reflects on integrity, trust, and the importance of principled leadership in today’s complex political landscape. This episode offers perspective for Veterans considering continued service, leadership roles in their communities, or public office — and for anyone seeking a grounded discussion on duty, responsibility, and country.Learn more at ptsdlawyers.com