Vet to Visionary -Amplifying Veteran Entrepreneurs

Reka Leftridge

This the is the Command Suite for Veteran Entrepreneurs. The uniform may have changed, but the mission of us being CHANGEMAKERS, INNOVATORS, & TRAILBLAZERS continues. Each week will connect you with successful veteran entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and program directors that will empower you to crush your entrepreneurial goals with actionable strategies, real-world tools, and a supportive community.  It’s more than sharing stories—it’s a blueprint for veterans who are ready to level up in business and life.If this sounds like your kind of mission—or you know someone who’d thrive here—let’s connect.  Don't forget to hit subscribe, turn on notifications, and share with your tribe.

Episodes

  1. May 21

    Stop Running Your Business on Feelings — VR Small on Proximity Bias, Access & Advocacy for Women Veterans

    In this episode of the Vet to Visionary podcast, Reka Leftridge interviews VR Small, a Navy veteran and founder of the Veteran Women's Enterprise Center (VWEC). VR shares her journey from military service to becoming a visionary leader in supporting women veterans in entrepreneurship. She discusses the challenges women veterans face in the business world, including proximity bias and the need for community and support. VR emphasizes the importance of creating spaces for women veterans to thrive and the necessity of a global virtual infrastructure to provide resources and mentorship. The conversation highlights the growth of women veteran entrepreneurs and the critical role of integrity and follow-through in professional relationships. In this conversation, VR Small discusses the innovative curriculum designed for women entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of tracking success through revenue and client acquisition. She highlights the need for long-term advisory support, financial readiness, and understanding market dynamics to ensure business viability. The conversation also touches on the challenges women face in accessing capital and the importance of representation and holistic support in entrepreneurship. Stay connected with VR Small & Veteran Women’s Enterprise Center: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veteranwomensec/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/veteranwomensec/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/veteranwomensec/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@veteranwomensec/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@veteranwomensec/ Website: https://veteranwomensec.org/ Substack: https://vrsmall.substack.com/ VR Small LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vrsmall/ Got a Question? Text me and I will answer it on air! Connect with us on Instagram: @vettovisionarypodcast Are you Veteran or Visionary?  We want to amplify you.  Be my next Guest Star www.vettovisionarypod.com Remember" Being Great ain't up for Debate!

    27 min
  2. 06/19/2025

    Javon Burden on Mental Health & Finding Purpose beyond the military

    In this powerful episode of the Vet to Visionary Podcast, host Reka Leftridge sits down with retired Navy Senior Chief turned real estate leader, Javon Burden, for a raw and transparent conversation about life after service. Javon opens up about his mental health journey, navigating geo-batching, and the breakdown that became a breakthrough. Together, they explore the reality many veterans face: self-doubt, isolation, and the search for identity beyond the uniform. Javon shares how he found healing, purpose, and success—and why your circle, your mindset, and your goals matter more than ever. If you’ve ever felt unseen while building something impactful, this episode is for you. Get ready to be inspired by the power of vulnerability, community and bold vision. Stay Connected with Javon  YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@BeyondTheSalewithJavon Personal Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Javonburden Business Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/JBnewhomes Website: https://www.JavonBurden.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/javonburden/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/JavonHomes Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/DroppedPinCreations Got a Question? Text me and I will answer it on air! Connect with us on Instagram: @vettovisionarypodcast Are you Veteran or Visionary?  We want to amplify you.  Be my next Guest Star www.vettovisionarypod.com Remember" Being Great ain't up for Debate!

    34 min
  3. 05/13/2025

    From Service to Sports Media: Terry Spain on Leadership, Mentorship & Making the Transition

    In this episode of Vet to Visionary, Reka sits down with Terry Spain — CEO of Sports First Media and Terry Spain Consulting. A retired U.S. Navy Chief turned global speaker, author, mentor, and seasoned sports commentator, Terry brings decades of leadership experience to the mic. Terry shares his powerful journey from military service to entrepreneurship, offering insights on: The mindset shifts veterans need to thrive as business ownersWhy mentorship is a mission, not a momentThe real challenges of transitioning from uniform to civilian lifeThe discipline, goal-setting, and community support that shape long-term successHe also opens up about his work as an author — the stories behind his books, what drives his message, and what he hopes veterans take away from his words. Whether you're a veteran navigating your next chapter, a founder building from the ground up, or someone looking to lead with more purpose — this conversation is full of wisdom and real talk. Connect with Dr. Terry Spain: LinkedIn:     Terry Spain Instagram:  @TerrySpain21  |  @SportsFirstMedia Facebook:   Terry Spain YouTube:     @TerrySpain21 Website:   TerrySpainConsulting.com Got a Question? Text me and I will answer it on air! Connect with us on Instagram: @vettovisionarypodcast Are you Veteran or Visionary?  We want to amplify you.  Be my next Guest Star www.vettovisionarypod.com Remember" Being Great ain't up for Debate!

    28 min

Ratings & Reviews

About

This the is the Command Suite for Veteran Entrepreneurs. The uniform may have changed, but the mission of us being CHANGEMAKERS, INNOVATORS, & TRAILBLAZERS continues. Each week will connect you with successful veteran entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and program directors that will empower you to crush your entrepreneurial goals with actionable strategies, real-world tools, and a supportive community.  It’s more than sharing stories—it’s a blueprint for veterans who are ready to level up in business and life.If this sounds like your kind of mission—or you know someone who’d thrive here—let’s connect.  Don't forget to hit subscribe, turn on notifications, and share with your tribe.