The Veterans Growing America Podcast

Donnell Johns & Coach R.L. Simmons
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Welcome to "The Veterans Growing America Podcast," hosted by the insightful duo, Donnell Johns and R.L. Simmons. This engaging podcast is dedicated to showcasing the entrepreneurial journeys of veterans, active service members, and their dependents who have bravely ventured into the world of business. In collaboration with Veterans Growing America (VGA), an organization committed to fostering the growth of veteran-owned businesses, our hosts bring to life the stories of those who have served their country and are now serving their communities through entrepreneurship. Each episode invites a new guest to share not only the unique proposition of their business but also their personal narrative as a veteran or a family member of a veteran.

  1. 12H AGO

    Alex Sebby | Words of Veterans | Veterans Growing America

    In this episode of the Veterans Growing America Podcast, Coach R.L. Simmons and Donnell Johns sit down with Alex K. Sebby, a Marine Corps veteran (1999–2003) and the founder of Words of Veterans—an online platform helping veterans preserve their military story in a tangible, family-ready legacy format. Alex shares a rare side of service you don’t hear often: his MOS as a combat illustrator, his post-service path through digital media and journalism, and the long, honest grind of entrepreneurship—multiple attempts, hard lessons, and learning how to “fail forward” without quitting on the mission. Most importantly, Alex breaks down how Words of Veterans works and why it matters: veterans can answer guided questions, add photos, and create a hardcover book that documents their service—something their children and loved ones can hold onto for generations. He also shares a major milestone: Words of Veterans received a grant from the Virginia Department of Veterans Services, allowing eligible veterans in Virginia to create their book at no cost. Topics covered: Marine Corps service, stop-loss, and what it means to carry your story forwardThe difference between running a business vs. starting a business“Failing forward,” acceptable loss, and entrepreneurship as a long gameWhy feedback is everything: how VGA helped Alex improve his platformTurning service history into a hardcover legacy bookVeteran community, consistency, and building something that outlives youHow to create your Words of Veterans book: Go to wordsofveterans.comSign up + verify your emailAnswer guided questions (short responses) + upload photosBuild your book without the intimidation of “writing a book”Connect with Alex / Words of Veterans: Website: wordsofveterans.comContact + socials are available directly on the siteYou can also connect through the Veterans Growing America directoryConnect with the hosts: Coach R.L. Simmons: yourmoneygoat.comVeterans Growing America: veteransgrowingamerica.com (Directory + events + marketplace)If you’re looking for a meaningful way to preserve your service, build legacy for your family, or learn what veteran entrepreneurship really looks like behind the scenes—this episode is for you.  Like, Subscribe, and Share And as always… Shop, baby.

    33 min

  2. 19H AGO

    Evie Waite | ELW Initiative | Veterans Growing America

    In this powerful and heartfelt episode of the Veterans Growing America Podcast, hosts Coach RL Simmons and Donnell Johns sit down with Evie Waite, Air Force veteran, law enforcement professional, and founder of ELW Initiative (Empower. Love. Win.). Evie shares her raw journey from military service and civilian law enforcement into entrepreneurship — revealing how stress, mindset, and lived experience led her to create a mission-driven brand rooted in self-empowerment, love of self and community, and winning from the inside out. This episode dives deep into: Transitioning from military & law enforcement into entrepreneurshipMental health, mindset shifts, and identity after serviceBetting on yourself when entrepreneurship “wasn’t the plan”Why how you treat people is the real business strategyScarcity vs. growth mindset in work, life, and leadershipBuilding community-centered businesses that feel like familyEvie also shares her experience as a member of Veterans Growing America, explaining why culture, energy, and community matter just as much as capital. Whether you’re a veteran, entrepreneur, creative, or someone searching for purpose beyond the paycheck — this conversation will resonate.  Connect with Evie & ELW Initiative Instagram: @elwinitiativeFacebook: ELW InitiativeFounder: Evie WaitPrograms: 30-Day Reset + Empowerment Initiatives Connect with the Hosts & VGA Coach RL Simmons: https://yourmoneygoat.comVeterans Growing America: https://veteransgrowingamerica.comVGA Directory & Veteran Marketplace: Shop veteran-owned businesses nationwide or visit the physical marketplace in Woodbridge, VA (Open 7 days a week, 12–6 PM) Quote Worth Remembering “People may forget what you say, but they will never forget how you made them feel.” Subscribe, listen, and share this episode with someone who needs permission to bet on themselves. Veterans Growing America Podcast — where service meets ownership, and community fuels growth.

    32 min

  3. 4D AGO

    TK Pryor | Master Wealth Builders LLC. | Veterans Growing America

    In this episode of the Veterans Growing America Podcast, hosts Coach RL Simmons and Donnell Johns welcome TK Pryor, U.S. Army Veteran and Founder of Master Wealth Builders LLC. TK brings over two decades of IT and military communications experience to his mission of teaching financial literacy to working families, veterans, and entrepreneurs.  From honor guard drills to annuities and asset protection, TK shares his powerful journey from active duty to building a business focused on financial education, generational wealth, and trust-based legacy planning. You’ll hear how his late mother’s financial foresight became the blueprint for his company—and how he's now helping others master their money mindset.

    29 min

  4. 4D AGO

    Ted Adair | Oath and Oaks | Veterans Growing America

    In this episode of the Veterans Growing America Podcast, hosts Coach RL Simmons and Donnell Johns welcome Ted Adair, U.S. Army Veteran and Founder of The Oath and Oak, a purpose-driven organization helping veterans transition through community, storytelling, and upskilling for the AI economy. Ted shares how four generations of military service shaped his values, how networking changed his post-military career trajectory, and why he launched The Oath and Oak to help veterans “stay rooted and find their outpost.” With a mission to empower veterans through mentorship, local connection, and emerging tech, Ted outlines how The Oath and Oak is bridging the gap between service and civilian life.  Key Takeaways: Ted is a 4th-generation Army veteran who served as a field artillery officer after commissioning from Villanova ROTC.The Oath and Oak is a Leesburg-based veteran-owned business helping veterans transition through storytelling, entrepreneurship, and AI upskilling.The program offers three tracks: entrepreneurship support, operational leadership training, and AI skill-building for workforce reintegration.Community, mentorship, and networking are crucial for a successful military-to-civilian transition.The future of veteran work involves adapting to and integrating AI tools—without losing the human connection.Veterans need to shed rigid military norms and embrace curiosity, flexibility, and relationship-building in the business world. “The military gave me everything I have—but transitioning was tough. The Oath and Oak is my way of giving back.” — Ted Adair Learn more about Ted and The Oath and Oak: https://www.theoathandoak.com Instagram: @theoathandoak Join the waitlist for 2026 workshops and AI cohorts. Want to grow with VGA? veteransgrowingamerica.com → Click Directory to hire and support a veteran-owned business. Register for Coach RL’s Kwanzaa Financial Reset: yourmoneygoat.com/events #TheOathAndOak #VeteransGrowingAmerica #TedAdair #VeteranEntrepreneurship #MilitaryTransition #AIforVeterans #LeesburgBusiness #YourMoneyGOAT #CoachRLSimmons #DonnellJohns #VGApodcast #MilitaryLegacy #VeteranCommunity #FinancialFreedom #AIUpskilling #ShopVeteran

    36 min

  5. 6D AGO

    Kenya Langford | GeaVance Energi Solutions | Veterans Growing America

    In this episode of the Veterans Growing America Podcast, co-hosts Coach R.L. Simmons and Donnell Johns sit down with Kenya Langford, a trailblazing Army veteran and the Founder & CEO of GeaVance Energi Solutions. From growing up in a small South Carolina town to becoming a petroleum supply specialist in the U.S. Army—and now leading innovative energy solutions globally—Kenya shares her incredible entrepreneurial journey. Discover how she transitioned from military service to managing aviation fuel terminals and building her own energy company that blends traditional and renewable solutions.  Topics Covered: Kenya’s early motivations for entrepreneurshipBreaking into the energy sector as a veteranBuilding infrastructure for EVs, solar, and biofuelsNavigating challenges in funding, time management, and business alignmentWhy solar power and energy independence matter more than everAdvice for new entrepreneurs entering the energy space Kenya’s Business Superpower? Vision. Her forward-thinking leadership is shaping the future of energy with innovation, environmental awareness, and global strategy. Tune in to hear Kenya’s perspective on: Why networking with purpose mattersThe importance of veteran business communities like VGAHow to stay rooted in your values while scaling your mission Connect with Kenya Langford on LinkedIn Explore more veteran-owned businesses at: www.veteransgrowingamerica.com Follow & Subscribe to stay updated on inspiring veteran entrepreneurs building wealth, impact, and legacy. #VeteransGrowingAmerica #KenyaLangford #GeaVanceEnergiSolutions #VeteranEntrepreneur #CleanEnergy #MilitaryToCEO #VeteranPodcast #SolarPower #EVInfrastructure #VGApodcast #YourMoneyGOAT #CoachRLSimmons #DonnellJohns #WomenInEnergy #VeteransInBusiness

    28 min

  6. MAR 31

    John Y. Ford | Real Estate | Veterans Growing America

    In this episode of the Veterans Growing America Podcast, hosts Coach RL Simmons and Donnell Johns sit down with John Y. Ford, a U.S. Army veteran and seasoned logistics, security, and real estate professional with over 30 years of global experience. From coordinating military operations across four continents to becoming a trusted Keller Williams real estate agent, John shares his powerful journey of service, strategy, and transition. With a wealth of experience spanning international logistics, law enforcement, and defense contracting, John now helps families—especially veterans—navigate the complex world of home buying. In this episode, we dive into the truth about today’s housing market, uncover underutilized VA housing benefits, and explore how military discipline translates into real estate excellence.  Key Takeaways: He has 20+ years of experience in military and civilian security operations.John now helps veterans and government professionals make smarter real estate decisions.Many veterans still don’t know how to fully use their VA loan benefits.Strategic negotiation and market analysis are part of John’s signature real estate approach.There is a growing need for military-friendly and veteran-informed real estate services. “I don’t just help people buy homes—I help them understand the mission behind their investment.” – John Y. Ford Connect with John Y. Ford]: @JohnYFordRealty  Join the Movement: Veterans Growing America A network for veteran and military spouse entrepreneurs Shop. Connect. Grow. @VeteransGrowingAmerica | www.veteransgrowingamerica.com #VeteranRealEstate #VAHomeLoans #MilitaryHomeBuying #VeteranBenefits #JohnYFord #VeteransGrowingAmerica #ShopVeteran #RealEstateStrategy #VAEntitlement #VeteranRealtor #LogisticsToLuxury

    31 min

  7. MAR 29

    Kim Pollard | Healthy Clarity by Kim Jarena | Veterans Growing America

    In this powerful episode of the Veterans Growing America Podcast, hosts Coach R.L. Simmons and Donnell Johns sit down with Kimberly Pollard, retired Chief Master Sergeant in the U.S. Air Force, and founder of Healthy Clarity by Kimberly Jarena. Kim shares her inspiring journey from military brat to senior leader in the Air Force, and how a deeply personal family challenge led her to the world of resilience training, mental wellness, and ultimately entrepreneurship. She opens up about overcoming burnout, embracing holistic healing, and finding her true calling after military retirement. Now a holistic intuitive coach and independent Arbonne wellness consultant, Kim helps women navigate burnout, confusion, and health challenges with grace, clarity, and purpose.  In this episode, we explore: Her 25-year military career and transition into civilian lifeThe birth of Healthy Clarity and how it blends coaching + wellnessHow she overcame fear, trauma, and a post-retirement car accidentLessons from military leadership that apply to entrepreneurshipHer emotional connection to the VGA community and her first vending experienceWhy doing it scared is better than doing nothing at all Top Quote: “It doesn’t scare me that I can’t see what’s ahead of me. I see that as space and opportunity.” Connect with Kim: Instagram/Facebook: @HealthyClarityByKimberlyJarenaArbonne Store: kimberlypollard.arbonne.comLinkedIn: Kimberly Pollard Want to shop, vend, or join our community? Visit: https://veteransgrowingamerica.com Need financial clarity for your business or family? Book your audit with Coach RL at: https://yourmoneygoat.com/bookings #VeteransGrowingAmerica #HealthyClarity #KimberlyPollard #VeteranEntrepreneur #MilitarySpouse #WomenInBusiness #AirForceVeteran #MentalWellness #ResilienceCoaching #DoItScared #VGACommunity

    44 min

  8. MAR 28

    Kimberly Vega | Zenith Soul | Veterans Growing America

    In this inspiring episode of the Veterans Growing America Podcast, we sit down with Kimberly Vega, founder of Zenith Soul — a brand where energy, music, and mindful fashion meet purpose. A proud U.S. Army Veteran, Kimberly shares her powerful journey from military service to soulful entrepreneurship. What began as a love for music and high-vibrational energy evolved into Zenith Soul, a conscious apparel and wellness brand designed to uplift, inspire, and help individuals express their authentic selves. In this conversation, we explore: How energy frequencies influence mood, creativity, and confidence The connection between rhythm, mindset, and personal growth Kimberly’s vision of fashion as a tool for self-expression and healing Her transition from Army life to building a business rooted in mindfulness and empowerment Whether you’re a veteran, entrepreneur, or creative soul, this episode is a reminder that purpose and passion can coexist—and that alignment with your higher self can transform not only your business, but your life.  Tune in, get inspired, and discover how to live, dress, and move in higher frequency. Learn more about Zenith Soul: https://zenithsoulreiki.com/ Learn more about Veterans Growing America: https://veteransgrowingamerica.com/ #VeteransGrowingAmerica #ZenithSoul #VeteranEntrepreneur #MindfulFashion #EnergyAlignment #WomenVeterans #PurposeDrivenBusiness #HolisticGrowth

    20 min
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About

Welcome to "The Veterans Growing America Podcast," hosted by the insightful duo, Donnell Johns and R.L. Simmons. This engaging podcast is dedicated to showcasing the entrepreneurial journeys of veterans, active service members, and their dependents who have bravely ventured into the world of business. In collaboration with Veterans Growing America (VGA), an organization committed to fostering the growth of veteran-owned businesses, our hosts bring to life the stories of those who have served their country and are now serving their communities through entrepreneurship. Each episode invites a new guest to share not only the unique proposition of their business but also their personal narrative as a veteran or a family member of a veteran.

Information

  • Creator
    Donnell Johns & Coach R.L. Simmons
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    60
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Veterans Growing America Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Veterans Growing America Podcast