• Mark Reilly- The Washington Tattoo
    Nov 5 2024

    🎙️ On this episode of the Veteran's Growing America Podcast, hosts Donnell Johns and R.L. Simmons have the pleasure of speaking with J. "Mark" Reilly, President and CEO of The Washington Tattoo, and an influential figure in the world of military music and international cultural events. With over 20 years of experience, Mark has developed a reputation for building world-class teams and producing flawless performances at prestigious venues around the globe. Tune in as Mark shares insights from his extensive career, his role in enhancing global cultural understanding through music, and his commitment to supporting veterans and first responders through his work with The Washington Tattoo.

    🌟 Episode Highlights:

    • Global Leadership: Discover Mark's journey through the realms of military music, where he has connected and collaborated with some of the most prestigious bands and cultural institutions worldwide.
    • Iconic Performances: Explore Mark’s experiences producing events at landmark venues like the White House, Royal Albert Hall, and the Vatican, and what it takes to execute such high-profile shows.
    • Educational Contributions: Learn about Mark's role as an educator and speaker at leading music conservatories and universities across the globe, spreading knowledge and fostering talent in the field of music.
    • The Washington Tattoo: Delve into the mission and vision behind The Washington Tattoo, understanding how this organization uses music to bridge cultural gaps and support community heroes.
    • Advocacy for Veterans: Hear how Mark’s initiatives are tailored to not only entertain but also support the welfare of veterans and first responders, aligning musical excellence with philanthropy.

    🔊 Whether you’re a music aficionado, interested in cultural diplomacy, or inspired by veteran support initiatives, this episode offers a unique look into how artistic expression can have a profound impact on communities and international relations.

    🔗 Links:

    • Veteran's Growing America: https://veteransgrowingamerica.com/
    • Dive deeper into The Washington Tattoo: https://www.thewashingtontattoo.com/
    • Connect with Donnell Johns on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnelljohns
    • Follow Coach R.L. Simmons on all platforms: @coachrlsimmons

    👉 Be sure to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes that explore the intersections of creativity, culture, and service. We’d love to hear your thoughts on how music and cultural events can impact global understanding and community support in the comments below!

    #VeteransGrowingAmerica #MarkReilly #WashingtonTattoo #MilitaryMusic #CulturalDiplomacy #VeteranSupport #MusicEducation #GlobalPerformances












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    20 mins
  • Jesse Sieff - Harmonizing Creativity and Service at Sieff Studios
    Oct 29 2024

    🎙️ In this episode of the Veteran's Growing America Podcast, hosts Donnell Johns and R.L. Simmons are thrilled to welcome Jesse Sieff, owner and founder of Sieff Studios. A U.S. Marine Corps veteran with a rich background in music and digital media, Jesse has masterfully blended his artistic talents and military discipline into a successful career in video production. Dive into Jesse's journey from the U.S. Marine Drum & Bugle Corps to founding Sieff Studios, where he and his team provide top-notch digital assets for businesses in the DMV area and beyond.

    🌟 Episode Highlights:

    • Musical Beginnings to Marine Excellence: Explore Jesse's transition from professional musician to a leading role in the Marine Corps' public affairs office, where he significantly enhanced their digital media operations.
    • Honors and Education: Learn about the accolades Jesse received for his impact in the Marines, and his educational pursuits that furthered his expertise in business and digital media.
    • Founding Sieff Studios: Discover the inspiration behind Sieff Studios and how Jesse’s vision for creative excellence and client-focused service was realized.
    • Consultative Business Model: Delve into the unique business approach at Sieff Studios, which prioritizes client goals and crafts customized, scalable solutions for video production and digital content.
    • Community Impact: Hear how Jesse's commitment to service guides his interactions and projects, fostering strong relationships and delivering exceptional value to his clients.

    🔊 Whether you're interested in the synergy of creativity and leadership, or seeking insights into building a client-centered creative business, this episode offers a compelling look at how one veteran is making a significant impact in the creative industry.

    🔗 Links:

    • Veteran's Growing America: https://veteransgrowingamerica.com/
    • Explore the creative world of Sieff Studios: https://www.sieffstudios.com/
    • Connect with Donnell Johns on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnelljohns
    • Follow Coach R.L. Simmons on all platforms: @coachrlsimmons

    👉 Be sure to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes that showcase the diverse talents and entrepreneurial spirit of veterans. Join the conversation below and share your thoughts on how creativity and service can combine to create a thriving business!

    #VeteransGrowingAmerica #JesseSieff #SieffStudios #MarineCorpsVeteran #DigitalMedia #CreativeEntrepreneurship #ClientFocused #BusinessInnovation

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    31 mins
  • Arthur Toole III - Revolutionizing Pain Relief with Meg Relief
    Oct 22 2024

    Arthur Toole - Revolutionizing Pain Relief with Grenada Nut Company

    🎙️ Step into the world of natural health solutions on this episode of the Veteran's Growing America Podcast, where hosts Donnell Johns and R.L. Simmons sit down with Arthur Toole, a U.S. Army veteran and the innovative CEO of Grenada Nut Company. Discover how Arthur's personal struggle with knee pain led to the creation of MegRelief, a natural pain relief solution that's changing lives. Join us as Arthur shares his journey from military service to entrepreneurship, and how he's committed to helping others live pain-free lives through the wonders of natural remedies.

    🌟 Episode Highlights:

    • From Soldier to CEO: Learn about Arthur’s transition from the U.S. Army to founding a company dedicated to natural health solutions.
    • Birth of MegRelief: Hear the inspiring story behind MegRelief, created after conventional treatments failed to alleviate Arthur's knee pain, leading him and his wife to explore natural alternatives.
    • Impact of Natural Remedies: Explore the benefits and science behind the natural ingredients used in MegRelief and how these products offer a safer, effective alternative to traditional pain medications.
    • Entrepreneurial Challenges: Gain insights into the hurdles Arthur faced while developing and marketing a new product in the competitive health and wellness industry.
    • Vision for the Future: Discover Arthur's goals for Grenada Nut Company and how he plans to expand his product line to support a broader range of health and wellness needs.

    🔊 Whether you're interested in veteran-led businesses, natural health products, or entrepreneurial journeys, this episode offers a compelling look at how personal challenges can lead to groundbreaking solutions.

    🔗 Links:

    • Veteran's Growing America: https://veteransgrowingamerica.com/
    • Learn more about Grenada Nut Company and MegRelief: https://www.megrelief.com/
    • Connect with Donnell Johns on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnelljohns
    • Follow Coach R.L. Simmons on all platforms: @coachrlsimmons

    👉 Be sure to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes that delve into the unique stories of veterans making a significant impact in diverse sectors. Join the conversation below and share how natural remedies have impacted your health and lifestyle!

    #VeteransGrowingAmerica #ArthurToole #NaturalHealth #PainRelief #VeteranEntrepreneur #GrenadaNutCompany #HealthInnovation #MilitaryTransition

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    23 mins
  • Michelle Gardner-Ince - Empowering Veteran Entrepreneurs
    Oct 3 2024

    🎙️ In this empowering episode of the Veteran's Growing America Podcast, hosts Donnell Johns and R.L. Simmons are honored to feature Michelle Gardner-Ince, known affectionately as "G-I." A retired Air Force Colonel and a stalwart advocate for veteran entrepreneurs, Ms. Gardner-Ince has dedicated over two decades to supporting veterans, military troops, and their families. Join us as she shares insights from her illustrious career, her passionate advocacy for socio-economic communities, and her mission to empower veteran entrepreneurs through strategic partnerships and community engagement.

    🌟 Episode Highlights:

    • Veteran Support and Advocacy: Explore Ms. Gardner-Ince's extensive background in supporting the military community and her transition into a role that champions veteran entrepreneurs.
    • Leadership in Business: Delve into her experience leading complex global operations and her impact on driving success for small businesses and startups.
    • Champion for Women Veterans: Discover how Ms. "G-I" uses her platform to support and elevate women veterans, making significant strides in leadership and entrepreneurship.
    • Recognition and Influence: Learn about her accolades, including being named one of LinkedIn's "Top Voices" for the Military Veteran Community in 2021, and her ongoing influence in the veteran business sector.
    • Vision for the Future: Hear Ms. Gardner-Ince’s strategies for fostering growth and success among underserved veteran entrepreneurs through innovative partnerships and programs.

    🔊 Whether you are a veteran entrepreneur, a supporter of military communities, or interested in effective leadership, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration from one of the most influential figures in the veteran business landscape.

    🔗 Links:

    • Veteran's Growing America: https://veteransgrowingamerica.com/
    • Connect with Michelle Gardner-Ince: LinkedIn
    • Connect with Donnell Johns on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnelljohns
    • Follow Coach R.L. Simmons on all platforms: @coachrlsimmons

    👉 Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes that spotlight the exceptional journeys of veterans and their contributions to communities and industries. Share your thoughts on how veteran leaders like Ms. "G-I" inspire your professional aspirations in the comments below!

    #VeteransGrowingAmerica #MichelleGardnerInce #VeteranEntrepreneurship #WomenVeterans #MilitaryLeadership #BusinessInnovation #CommunityEngagement

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    45 mins
  • Miguel Sierra - Miguel Sierra Speaks
    Sep 9 2024

    🎙️ In this powerful episode of the Veteran's Growing America Podcast, hosts Donnell Johns and R.L. Simmons sit down with Miguel Sierra, an Army veteran and renowned Behavioral Health advocate from Cleveland, Ohio. With a decade of experience as a Behavioral Health Specialist and various key roles within the Army, Miguel has dedicated his career to enhancing the well-being of military personnel and civilians alike. Tune in as he shares his journey from active-duty service to becoming a pivotal figure in suicide prevention and mental health advocacy, including his current role at Fort George G. Meade.

    🌟 Episode Highlights:

    • Extensive Military Background: Discover Miguel's impactful military career, including his roles as a Suicide Prevention Coordinator and Sexual Assault Victim Advocate, and how these experiences shaped his approach to mental health advocacy.
    • Transition to Civilian Advocacy: Learn about Miguel's seamless transition to the civilian sector, where he continues to empower and motivate organizations, schools, and communities to support mental wellness and suicide prevention.
    • Frontline Leadership: Explore Miguel's current role as the Suicide Prevention Program Manager at Fort George G. Meade, where he oversees critical training initiatives and strives to foster a supportive military community.
    • Workshops and Impact: Hear about the wide range of workshops Miguel conducts for military units, educational institutions, and community organizations, and the positive changes these initiatives bring.
    • Vision for the Future: Miguel shares his aspirations to create a culture of compassion, support, and connectedness, not just within the military but across all sectors he influences.

    🔊 Whether you're interested in mental health advocacy, military transitions, or community leadership, this episode offers inspiring insights into the power of dedicated service and the impact one individual can have on many.

    🔗 Links:

    • Veteran's Growing America: https://veteransgrowingamerica.com/
    • More on Miguel Sierra's initiatives and speaking engagements: https://miguelsierraspeaks.com/
    • Connect with Donnell Johns on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnelljohns
    • Follow Coach R.L. Simmons on all platforms: @coachrlsimmons

    👉 Be sure to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes that delve into the journeys of veterans who continue to serve their communities in profound ways. Drop a comment below to share how discussions on mental health have influenced or supported your life!

    #VeteransGrowingAmerica #MiguelSierra #MentalHealthAdvocacy #SuicidePrevention #ArmyVeteran #BehavioralHealth #MilitaryTransition #CommunitySupport

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    30 mins
  • Takisha Bauermeister- House of JITB
    Sep 5 2024

    🎙️ Step into the world of accessible fashion on this episode of the Veteran's Growing America Podcast, where hosts Donnell Johns and R.L. Simmons are joined by Takisha Bauermeister, an Army veteran, entrepreneur, and the creative force behind House of JITB. Takisha shares her journey from serving in the military to becoming a "BOSS LADY" in the fashion industry, all while juggling life as a single mom of two. Discover how her passion for affordable fashion drives her business, which specializes in stylish yet budget-friendly jewelry, t-shirts, leggings, and more, each designed to boost self-esteem and bring joy to her customers.

    🌟 Episode Highlights:

    • Military to Fashion Maven: Explore Takisha's transition from her role in the Army to founding House of JITB, highlighting how her military experiences shaped her business acumen.
    • Entrepreneurial Journey: Delve into the challenges and triumphs Takisha faced as a disabled veteran and single mom building a business from the ground up.
    • Affordable Fashion Philosophy: Learn about Takisha’s commitment to providing fashion that is both stylish and accessible, ensuring that looking good doesn’t have to come at a high cost.
    • Impact on Self-Esteem: Hear how Takisha uses her platform to uplift others, focusing on the positive impact that feeling good in what you wear can have on self-confidence.
    • Community Engagement: Discover how House of JITB engages with the community, putting smiles on faces through thoughtful products and empowering messages.

    🔊 Whether you're interested in veteran entrepreneurship, fashion, or stories of personal resilience, this episode offers a wealth of inspiration and practical insights.

    🔗 Links:

    • Veteran's Growing America: https://veteransgrowingamerica.com/
    • Learn more about House of JITB: https://takishabauermeister.com/
    • Connect with Donnell Johns on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnelljohns
    • Follow Coach R.L. Simmons on all platforms: @coachrlsimmons

    👉 Be sure to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes that showcase the diverse talents and entrepreneurial spirit of veterans. Join the conversation below and let us know how fashion influences your confidence and daily life!

    #VeteransGrowingAmerica #TakishaBauermeister #HouseofJITB #AffordableFashion #VeteranEntrepreneur #FashionEntrepreneur #EmpoweringFashion #MilitaryTransition

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    33 mins
  • David Piatek- VA Housing Education
    Aug 12 2024

    Tune into a crucial episode of the Veteran's Growing America Podcast, where hosts Donnell Johns and R.L. Simmons welcome David Piatek, a distinguished VA Loan Expert and Army Service Member. David is the driving force behind VA Housing Education, a platform dedicated to assisting service members and veterans in navigating the intricacies of VA Home Loans. In this episode, David shares expert insights and tips on how veterans can fully utilize their VA Home Loan benefits, fostering a smoother path to homeownership. Episode Highlights:

    • Introduction to VA Housing Education: Discover how David's professional journey and personal experiences inspired him to create VA Housing Education, aiming to empower veterans with essential knowledge and resources.
    • Benefits of VA Loans Explained: Learn the significant advantages of VA Home Loans directly from an expert, including unique aspects that can make homeownership more accessible and affordable for veterans.
    • Overcoming Common Challenges: David addresses typical hurdles and misconceptions that veterans encounter when applying for VA Loans and provides strategies to navigate these challenges effectively.
    • Educational Resources: Explore the variety of educational tools and videos available through VA Housing Education, designed to guide veterans step-by-step through the home buying process.
    • Veteran Success Stories: Be inspired by testimonials and success stories from veterans who have achieved their homeownership dreams through the guidance and support of VA Housing Education.

    Whether you are a veteran planning to buy a home or a service member curious about your housing benefits, this episode is packed with actionable advice and supportive insights. Links:

    • Veteran's Growing America: https://veteransgrowingamerica.com/
    • VA Housing Education YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@vahousingeducation
    • Connect with Donnell Johns on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnelljohns
    • Follow Coach R.L. Simmons on all platforms: @coachrlsimmons

    Be sure to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes that spotlight educational resources and transformative stories within the veteran community. We invite you to share your thoughts or questions about VA Home Loans in the comments below!

    #VeteransGrowingAmerica #DavidPiatek #VAHousingEducation #VAHomeLoans #ArmyService #VeteranHomeownership #MilitaryBenefits #HomeLoanEducation

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    24 mins
  • Dial Burum - All Assured Solutions
    Aug 5 2024

    In this informative episode of the Veteran's Growing America Podcast, hosts Donnell Johns and R.L. Simmons sit down with Dial Burum, an Army veteran and the founder of All Assured Solutions. Dial shares his journey from his time in the Army to becoming a leading expert in the insurance industry. Tune in as we delve into how Dial's military experiences shaped his approach to business and client service, and discover the strategies he uses to secure the best insurance deals for his clients across various types of coverage. Episode Highlights:

    • Military Foundations: Explore Dial’s experiences in the Army, discussing the skills and values he developed during his service and how these have influenced his career in insurance.
    • Transition to Insurance: Learn about Dial’s transition from military service to the insurance industry, including the challenges he faced and the successes he has achieved.
    • Inside All Assured Solutions: Get an insider’s look at how Dial founded All Assured Solutions and what sets his agency apart from others in the market.
    • Expert Insurance Tips: Dial shares his top strategies for navigating the complex world of insurance, helping clients understand and choose the best options for their needs.
    • Client-Centric Approach: Discover how Dial prioritizes client needs and fosters long-term relationships, ensuring that each client receives tailored advice and optimal coverage.

    Whether you're a veteran interested in entering the insurance industry, looking for tips on securing better insurance deals, or simply inspired by successful post-military careers, this episode is packed with valuable insights and advice. Links:

    • Veteran's Growing America: https://veteransgrowingamerica.com/
    • Learn more about Dial Burum and All Assured Solutions: https://www.allassuredsolutions.com/
    • Connect with Donnell Johns on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnelljohns
    • Follow Coach R.L. Simmons on all platforms: @coachrlsimmons

    Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes that showcase the journeys of veterans who have made a significant impact in various industries. Drop a comment below to share your own experiences with insurance or transitioning from military to civilian careers!

    #VeteransGrowingAmerica #DialBurum #InsuranceExpert #ArmyVeteran #BusinessSuccess #InsuranceTips #VeteranEntrepreneur #ClientService

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    26 mins