DogTags to Ownership

Julie Austin and Matthew Cain
  • 5.0 (15)
  • Business
  • Updated Weekly

DogTags to Ownership is the podcast designed for military members and veterans ready to transition from service to success in business. Whether you’re considering entrepreneurship for the first time or are already on the path to business ownership, this show provides the tools, insights, and inspiration you need to thrive. Hosted by U.S. Army Officers Julie Austin and Matthew Cain, we explore the unique strengths veterans bring to the entrepreneurial world, share actionable advice from experts, and feature inspiring stories of those who’ve successfully made the leap. Tune in to transform your military experience into a foundation for innovation, resilience, and business leadership. #DogTagsToOwnership #VeteranEntrepreneurs #MilitaryToBusiness #VeteranOwnedBusiness

  1. 1d ago

    S2:E33: Why Wearing Your Service Is a Competitive Advantage in Business with Team JDog

    Send us Fan Mail  Summary: In this episode, Jerry "JDog" and Tracy "Mrs. JDog" Flanagan share their inspiring journey from military service to successful veteran franchise owners. They discuss the creation of the JDog brand, its impact on the veteran community, and insights into entrepreneurship, franchising, and branding strategies. Key  Topics: The origin of the J Dog brand and its military rootsThe importance of branding and community connection in franchisingChallenges and lessons learned in scaling a franchiseThe role of veteran identity in business successInsights into marketing, storytelling, and organic growth strategiesThe impact of media, including TV and podcasts, on brand visibilityAdvice for service members and veterans considering entrepreneurshipTakeaways: Military service instills values that translate into business success.Branding around veteran identity creates trust and loyalty.Scaling a franchise requires patience, resilience, and community engagement.Authentic storytelling and media exposure boost brand recognition.Veterans bring soft skills that are highly valuable in entrepreneurship.Chapters: (0:03) Introducing Jerry “J Dog” and Tracy “Mrs. J Dog” Flanagan (1:06) Jerry’s Army service and the origin of the “J Dog” nickname (3:09) Tracy on becoming a veteran spouse and joining the military community (4:54) Why Jerry left active duty and how he tried to rebuild after service (7:59) The post-military hustle - multiple jobs and learning the work ethic (8:47) From Halloween retail to entrepreneurship and seeing the money gap (10:09) Tracy joins the business journey and the 2008 crash leads to junk removal (12:15) J Dog starts as a side hustle, then a customer changes everything (14:39) Turning veteran identity into a real competitive advantage (16:17) What the J Dog model is and why it resonates nationwide (19:30) Why Tracy pushed franchising as a way to create opportunities for veterans (21:54) Growing to 88 franchises and building national momentum (22:59) The J Dog TV show and how it helped tell the brand story (25:34) How Tactical Treasures became a podcast and grew organically (28:26) Tracy on episode 200 and the emotional power of veteran stories (31:52) The realities of scaling a franchise and why execution is hard (37:59) Advice for veterans considering entrepreneurship Support the show Visit our website: https://www.dogtags-to-ownership.com/ Follow us on Social Media  Instagram/Facebook/Threads: @dogtags_to_ownership X: @DTO_Podcast TikTok: @dogtags_to_ownership

    S2:E33: Why Wearing Your Service Is a Competitive Advantage in Business with Team JDog

  2. Aug 11

    S2:E32: How Podcast Interviews Can Transform Your Business with Tom Schwab

    Send us Fan Mail Summary: In this episode, Tom Schwab shares his journey from military service to entrepreneurship, highlighting the power of podcast interview marketing for building trust and growing a brand. Discover how his insights can help military veterans and entrepreneurs leverage conversations for meaningful business success. Key Topics: Tom Schwab's military background and transition to entrepreneurshipThe evolution of podcast interview marketing since 2014How to use podcasts to reach ideal clients and grow your businessThe importance of authentic conversations and storytelling in marketingStrategies for military veterans to turn their skills into business ownership Takeaways: Listening to your customers provides invaluable insights for business growth.Taking action quickly and learning from experience accelerates success.Celebrating small wins builds momentum and motivation.Authenticity and clarity attract the right clients and opportunities.Podcast interview marketing is a powerful tool for micro-fame and valuation growth.Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Tom Schwab and His Journey02:43 Military Background and Transition to Civilian Life05:31 First Steps into Entrepreneurship08:11 Building Goodbye Crutches and Lessons Learned10:55 The Evolution of Interview Valet13:43 Navigating the Podcasting Landscape16:41 Defining the Target Audience and Clientele19:25 Refining Focus and Growth Strategies21:58 The Value of Micro Fame in Business22:55 Identifying and Targeting Ideal Clients24:39 Feedback and Engagement through Podcasting25:32 The Evolution of Podcasts and Social Media28:00 Repurposing Content for Maximum Reach29:33 The Power of Genuine Conversations31:48 The Importance of Patience in Entrepreneurship36:02 Recognizing Your Unique Value37:50 Encouragement to Share Your Voice39:11 Recommended Resources for Growth Resources: Interview Valet - https://interviewvalet.com Forces Brands USA - https://forcesbrands-usa.com/ Support the show Visit our website: https://www.dogtags-to-ownership.com/ Follow us on Social Media  Instagram/Facebook/Threads: @dogtags_to_ownership X: @DTO_Podcast TikTok: @dogtags_to_ownership

    S2:E32: How Podcast Interviews Can Transform Your Business with Tom Schwab

  3. Aug 4

    S2:E31: Building a Brand through Authenticity with Malyri Ryan

    Send us Fan Mail Summary: In this episode, Malyri Ryan shares her inspiring journey from Marine veteran to successful social media influencer and entrepreneur. She discusses the importance of authenticity, balancing family and passion, and how her platform has impacted lives. Key Topics: Military transition and entrepreneurshipBuilding an authentic social media brandBalancing family life with online businessCollaborations with Walmart and other brandsImpact of social media on personal and professional lifeChapters: 00:00 Introduction of Malyri Ryan and her background01:20 Malyri's military service and transition to civilian life03:00 Starting her blog and social media journey06:46 First brand collaboration and growth of her platform10:55 Building her website and brand identity15:52 Balancing family life and social media career20:49 Challenges and highs of being an influencer25:54 Winning the veteran media fashion award29:59 Reflections on authenticity and purpose in social media35:05 Impact stories and community connection39:48 Advice for transitioning military members into entrepreneurshipResources: Forces Brands USA - https://forcesbrands-usa.com/ Cheap Chic Finds - https://www.cheapchicfinds.com/ Hero's Media Group - https://heroesmediagroup.com/ Support the show Visit our website: https://www.dogtags-to-ownership.com/ Follow us on Social Media  Instagram/Facebook/Threads: @dogtags_to_ownership X: @DTO_Podcast TikTok: @dogtags_to_ownership

    S2:E31: Building a Brand through Authenticity with Malyri Ryan

  4. Jul 28

    S2:E30: July Recap: Building Impactful Businesses

    Send us Fan Mail Summary: In this episode, Julie and Matt explore inspiring stories of military veterans turned entrepreneurs, highlighting their journeys of resilience, innovation, and purpose. We recap our month of July guests Tony Medrano, Travis Partington, and Lee Stuckey who all shared lessons on leadership, overcoming adversity, and building impactful businesses. We also discuss what we have in store for the next couple of months.  Key Topics: Veteran entrepreneurship journeyLessons in resilience and leadershipInnovative health tech startupsBuilding community through businessPodcasting as a platform for impactOvercoming adversity and mental health challengesThe role of purpose in business successSupporting veteran-owned businesses through Forces Brands USAChapters: 00:00 Introduction to Veteran Entrepreneur Stories180:29:37 Recap of July's Highlights and Launch of Forces Brands10166:36:45 Interview with Tony Madrano: Harvard Graduate and Tech Innovator14722:10:29 Tony Madrano's Journey in Tech and Healthcare19388:50:41 Celebrating Travis Partington's 500th Podcast Episode236111:04:32 Travis's Impact in Podcasting and Voiceover Work306111:05:07 Lee Stuckey: Overcoming Adversity and Inspiring Others382222:12:33 Lee's Mission to Save Lives and Support Veterans389999:59:17 Upcoming Events and Community Engagement461666:39:52 Forces Brands USA Business of the Week: Allegiant Custom Products Resources: Forces Brands USA - https://forcesbrands-usa.comC.R.A.F.T. Frontline Tasting - https://supportcraft.org/event/frontline-tastings-mic2026Team Addo September Event - https://www.teamaddo.org/events/ Support the show Visit our website: https://www.dogtags-to-ownership.com/ Follow us on Social Media  Instagram/Facebook/Threads: @dogtags_to_ownership X: @DTO_Podcast TikTok: @dogtags_to_ownership

    S2:E30: July Recap: Building Impactful Businesses

  5. Jul 21

    S2:E29: From Darkness to Legacy: The Unbreakable Journey of Lee Stuckey

    Send us Fan Mail Summary: This episode hits hard. Lee Stuckey’s story isn’t just about military service—it’s about resilience, overcoming darkness, and transforming pain into purpose that saves lives. Get ready for raw honesty, powerful leadership lessons, and a call to ignite your own legacy. In this episode: Lee shares his harrowing journey from near-suicide to founding AHERO, impacting over 13,000 livesLessons learned from legendary military leaders and how they shaped his leadership philosophyThe critical importance of mental health, faith, and family in overcoming traumaPractical strategies for emotional renewal, including daily spiritual and physical routinesHow transparency and vulnerability can foster healing for yourself and othersBuilding a legacy through service, nonprofit work, and entrepreneurial venturesThe power of making your bed—simple habits that create monumental changeUnlocking your potential with resourceful leadership and disciplineThis episode is a testament: that even in our darkest valleys, there's a way back to meaning, impact, and healing. Lee’s vulnerability is a beacon—reminding us all that sharing our truth is the first step to transforming pain into purpose. Don't wait. Make that bed. Take that first step. Your legacy starts now. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Lee Stuckey's Journey05:29 Military Service and Leadership Lessons08:10 Struggles with Alcohol and Mental Health11:57 Understanding Addiction and Recovery17:30 The Importance of Planning and Discipline23:51 Creating a Healthy Home Environment26:56 The Impact of Alcohol on Health28:23 The Catalyst for Change: Founding A Hero29:09 Personal Struggles and the Fight for Survival32:28 A Life-Saving Call: Turning Points35:13 From Nonprofit to Keynote Speaking37:03 Encouragement for Self-Reflection38:10: Forces Brands USA Business of the Week Resources: America's Heroes Enjoying Recreation Outdoors Forces Brands USA  Support the show Visit our website: https://www.dogtags-to-ownership.com/ Follow us on Social Media  Instagram/Facebook/Threads: @dogtags_to_ownership X: @DTO_Podcast TikTok: @dogtags_to_ownership

    S2:E29: From Darkness to Legacy: The Unbreakable Journey of Lee Stuckey

  6. Jul 14

    S2:E28: Building Community Through Veteran Stories with Travis Partington

    Send us Fan Mail Summary: In this episode, we chat with Travis Partington, founder of Oscar Mike Radio, about his journey of over nine years of podcasting, amplifying veteran voices, and building community. We also highlight Michael Starr, an Air Force veteran and owner of Blazing Star Barbecue, showcasing how veterans continue to serve through entrepreneurship. Key Topics: Travis Partington's 9+ years of podcasting and 500 episodesThe importance of authentic conversations in community buildingHighlighting veteran entrepreneurs like Michael Starr of Blazing Star BarbecueThe role of veteran-owned businesses in local communitiesThe mission of Oscar Mike Radio to amplify veteran voicesThe 'Replace One' challenge to support veteran businessesThe ongoing service of veterans through entrepreneurshipTakeaways: Authentic conversations can create lasting community impact.Veterans continue to serve society through entrepreneurship.Supporting veteran-owned businesses strengthens communities.Long-term dedication, like Travis's 9+ years of podcasting, builds credibility.Every purchase from veteran businesses supports their ongoing mission. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Dog Tags to Ownership and Episode Overview02:10 Celebrating Travis's 500th Podcast Episode02:39 From Military Service to Civilian Life07:49 Navigating the Transition Process12:58 The Birth of Oscar Mike Radio14:56 The Evolution of Oscar Mike Radio18:49 Expanding Horizons: TV and Community Engagement24:20 The Cost of Greeting Cards26:24 Starting a Card Company28:25 Expanding into Voiceover and MC Work30:52 Gratitude and Reflection on Growth32:14 Advice for Transitioning Veterans32:32 The Journey of Recovery and New Podcast36:09 Influential Books and Podcasts37:27 The Importance of Little Things40:25 Supporting Veteran-Owned Businesses via Forces Brands USA42:16 The 'Replace One' Challenge: Supporting Veteran Entrepreneurs42:30 Closing Remarks: Keep Serving and BuildingResources: Oscar Mike Radio - https://oscarmikeradio.com Forces Brands USA - https://forcesbrands-usa.com Support the show Visit our website: https://www.dogtags-to-ownership.com/ Follow us on Social Media  Instagram/Facebook/Threads: @dogtags_to_ownership X: @DTO_Podcast TikTok: @dogtags_to_ownership

    S2:E28: Building Community Through Veteran Stories with Travis Partington

  7. Jul 7

    S2:E27: From Navy to AI: Tony Medrano’s Journey of Innovation and Leadership

    Send us Fan Mail Summary: In this episode, Tony Medrano shares his remarkable journey from Navy veteran to successful entrepreneur in AI and healthcare. Discover how military leadership, problem-solving, and resilience can translate into civilian success and innovation. Matt and Julie also announce this weeks Forces Brands USA Business of the Week - Exray.  DogTags to Ownership is also a proud member of the Heroes Media Group. Key topics: Military leadership and transition to civilian entrepreneurshipThe role of AI and peptides in health and longevityBuilding and scaling tech startups in Silicon ValleyThe importance of timing and resilience in startupsLeveraging military experience for business successTakeaways: Military leadership and problem-solving are highly transferable to entrepreneurship.Timing and perseverance are crucial in startup success.Combining personal passions like fitness with business can create unique opportunities.Networking and mentorship are vital for entrepreneurial growth.Simplifying life and focusing on core goals are key to success.Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Tony Medrano02:51 Military Journey and Leadership Development08:16 Transitioning to Civilian Life and Education12:16 Entrepreneurial Spirit and Early Ventures17:14 Navigating Challenges in Entrepreneurship19:29 Resilience and Learning from Experience21:19 Transitioning into Healthcare and AI24:13 The Intersection of Fitness and AI24:53 Longevity AI: A Personal Journey30:13 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs35:00 Forces Brands USA Business of the WeekResources: Longevity Plan AI Forces Brands USAExrayHeroes Media Group Support the show Visit our website: https://www.dogtags-to-ownership.com/ Follow us on Social Media  Instagram/Facebook/Threads: @dogtags_to_ownership X: @DTO_Podcast TikTok: @dogtags_to_ownership

    S2:E27: From Navy to AI: Tony Medrano’s Journey of Innovation and Leadership

  8. Jun 30

    S2:E26: Healing, Building, Scaling: June Recap

    Send us Fan Mail Summary: This episode recaps June's key themes of healing, building, and scaling through inspiring stories of veterans and entrepreneurs. We highlight lessons from guests like Keith Cole, Javier Guitron, Scott Lackey, and Jamie J, emphasizing resilience, intentional transition, and system building. We also deep dive into C.R.A.F.T. first frontline tasting and how they are helping veterans in the brewing and distilling industry.  Key  Topics: Healing from trauma and setbacksIntentional transition from military to civilian lifeBuilding and scaling systems for business growthResilience and leadership in veteransCommunity support and veteran entrepreneurshipTakeaways: Heal what holds you backBuild intentionally for the futureCreate systems that scale and sustainLeverage military experience for business successSupport veteran-owned businesses to strengthen communitiesChapters: 00:00 Introduction to Dog Tags the Ownership00:23 Recap of June's Episodes02:05 Healing, Building, and Scaling: Keith Cole's Journey06:14 Ownership and Wealth Creation: Javier Guitron's Insights07:48 Resilience in Entrepreneurship: Scott Lackey's Story11:39 Creating Freedom Through Business: Jamie and Sara Jay's Experience13:07 Three Dog Tags of June14:21 Featured Business of the Week16:52 Replace One Challenge Announcement29:41 Closing Remarks and Call to ActionResources: Burnout Gods Recovery by Keith Cole Wake Up to Die by Scott Lackey Bottleneck Distance Assistants Forces Brands USA  Support the show Visit our website: https://www.dogtags-to-ownership.com/ Follow us on Social Media  Instagram/Facebook/Threads: @dogtags_to_ownership X: @DTO_Podcast TikTok: @dogtags_to_ownership

    S2:E26: Healing, Building, Scaling: June Recap
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5
out of 5
15 Ratings

About

DogTags to Ownership is the podcast designed for military members and veterans ready to transition from service to success in business. Whether you’re considering entrepreneurship for the first time or are already on the path to business ownership, this show provides the tools, insights, and inspiration you need to thrive. Hosted by U.S. Army Officers Julie Austin and Matthew Cain, we explore the unique strengths veterans bring to the entrepreneurial world, share actionable advice from experts, and feature inspiring stories of those who’ve successfully made the leap. Tune in to transform your military experience into a foundation for innovation, resilience, and business leadership. #DogTagsToOwnership #VeteranEntrepreneurs #MilitaryToBusiness #VeteranOwnedBusiness

Information

  • Creator
    Julie Austin and Matthew Cain
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    85
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 DogTags to Ownership
  • Show Website
    DogTags to Ownership

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