Synopsis
The Service Academy Business Mastermind is a transformational program for Service Academy graduates who are building businesses.Our members include entrepreneurs in real estate, healthcare, manufacturing, e-commerce and more. This is the group youve been waiting for! The podcast is where we showcase entrepreneurial success stories from the Service Academy community: West Point, Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, Coast Guard Academy, and Merchant Marine Academy.
Episodes
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#326: Helping Entrepreneurs Break Into Franchising with Josh Emison, USNA ‘14
07/06/2025 Duration: 39minJoshua Emison is the founder of Tracer Franchising, where he helps individuals identify proven, scalable franchise opportunities tailored to their financial and lifestyle goals. With a background in business development and a sharp eye for operational models, he simplifies what’s often a crowded and confusing process in franchising. Josh works across industries to guide clients toward sustainable, long-term ownership—whether they’re exploring their first opportunity or expanding an existing portfolio. A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and former Marine Corps Infantry Officer, Josh approaches business ownership with the same focus and structure that defined his military career. He’s also the co-founder of Sans Bank, a fintech company using blockchain to make alternative investments more accessible through asset tokenization. Across both ventures, Josh is focused on helping others take ownership of their future through smart, strategic decisions. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Joshua
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#325: Inspiring Change Through Filmmaking with Zachary Guerra, USNA ‘00
31/05/2025 Duration: 34minNeed financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/ Want to join us in San Antonio, TX on June 11th & 12th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events ____ Zachary Guerra is a powerful force in storytelling, making the leap from Naval Aviator flying S-3B Vikings to directing multi-million-dollar productions for some of the world’s biggest brands. Over the past decade, Zachary has directed and produced more than 25 high-impact campaigns for global brands such as Apple and ESPN, managing more than $34 million in production budgets. As a Director, Writer, and Producer, Zachary has written 15+ screenplays and directed over 20 commercials, all while actively developing feature films with both major studios and independent teams. Beyond his commercial success, Zachary is deeply invested in the next generation of creatives. He mentors aspiring filmmakers and imparts his knowledge of Editing, Cinematography, and Producing at esteemed institutions. His dedication to education reflects
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#324: From Free Help to General Partner: How a Young Grad Earned His Seat at the Table with Rob Pekarek, USNA ‘21
24/05/2025 Duration: 34minNeed financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/ Want to join us in San Antonio, TX on June 11th & 12th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events ____ Rob Pekarek is an Operations Research Analyst at Air Combat Command and a General Partner in multifamily real estate. On active duty, he serves on the staff of the four-star General commanding ACC, where he leads teams that solve operational challenges across the Air Force using tools like Python, Excel, and PowerPoint automation. His work has improved aircraft scheduling, streamlined data systems, and delivered practical solutions to commanders on base. Rob previously completed a fully funded research fellowship at Purdue University, where he modeled climate adaptation strategies and infrastructure investment. His work informed a $5 billion coastal protection plan for Louisiana and supported the Naval Academy’s Sea Level Rise action plan. Now active in real estate investing, Rob helped acquire a 24-unit apartment complex i
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#323: Leveraging Untapped Talent in Indonesia with Jason Williscroft, USNA ‘95
17/05/2025 Duration: 37minNeed financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/ Want to join us in San Antonio, TX on June 11th & 12th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events ____ Jason is the founder of John Galt Services, a Bali-based outsourcing company that connects businesses with high-performing, multilingual talent across Indonesia. With a focus on quality, training, and long-term impact, his team works in person from Bali to deliver reliable, professional support at global standards. A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and former Navy Surface Warfare Officer, Jason has spent over two decades leading product development and building enterprise software systems for startups and major financial institutions. He previously founded a data systems firm that served clients like Invesco and Bridgewater Associates. Today, he also serves as a lead developer and technical leader at VeteranCrowd. Fluent in Bahasa Indonesia and deeply embedded in the local community, Jason is passionate about creating
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#322: Helping Companies Expand into Panama, Latin America, and Beyond with Mario Cortizo, USMA ‘13
04/05/2025 Duration: 21minNeed financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/ Want to join us in San Antonio, TX on June 11th & 12th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events ____ Mario Cortizo is the Founder and President of Maerco Consulting, helping companies expand into Panama and Latin America through strategic market entry, partnerships, and business development support. A West Point graduate and seasoned entrepreneur, Mario combines disciplined leadership with a deep understanding of regional growth opportunities. His career highlights include leading business development for companies with over 200 million users, managing $2 billion infrastructure initiatives, and representing Panama in the 2022 Young Leaders of the Americas Entrepreneurship Program. At Maerco Consulting, Mario specializes in diagnosing challenges, identifying new markets, and building partnerships that drive long-term success. With multicultural experience and fluency in four languages, he is uniquely positioned to help comp
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#321: Building the Future of Technology Consulting with C Infinity Solutions and Chris Coughlan, USNA ‘05
04/05/2025 Duration: 30minNeed financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/ Want to join us in San Antonio, TX on June 11th & 12th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events ____ Chris Coughlan is the Founder and CEO of C Infinity Solutions, a digital consultancy helping companies turn big ideas into scalable, AI-powered products. A Naval Academy graduate and former intelligence officer, Chris blends military precision with business innovation to drive real results. After leadership roles at IBM, Wizeline, and Atrium, he launched C Infinity to rethink how businesses build technology — faster, smarter, and with fewer barriers. His team specializes in helping founders and enterprises bring new products to market, modernize operations, and scale with confidence. Known for his hands-on leadership and focus on execution, Chris is helping redefine what technology partnerships can achieve. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Chris about: The Start of C Infinity Solutions: Combining mili
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#320: From Navy Command to Executive Coaching: Building Transformative Teams with Jeff Servello, USNA ‘02
24/04/2025 Duration: 34minNeed financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/ Want to join us in San Antonio, TX on June 11th & 12th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events ____ Jeff Servello is a seasoned leader and trusted Principal Advisor specializing in executive coaching, leadership development, and crisis response. A U.S. Naval Academy graduate, he also holds a Master of Professional Studies in Leadership, Education, and Development from the University of Maryland. Over the past 20 years, Jeff has led award-winning teams, managed billion-dollar resources, and coached cross-functional units to high performance in complex environments. He piloted multi-functional operations supporting global missions, oversaw $5M budgets, and directed the professional development of over 700 emerging leaders. As chief architect of an enterprise-wide talent plan, he increased retention rates by 12% and streamlined candidate screening for 800+ individuals annually. Today, Jeff partners with new and emerging lea
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#319: How LCAB Holdings Is Redefining Commercial Construction with Jeff Tegman, USMA ‘07
19/04/2025 Duration: 39minNeed financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/ Want to join us in San Antonio, TX on June 11th & 12th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events ____ Jeff Tegman is the Vice President of LCAB Holdings, a veteran-owned holding company redefining how the commercial construction industry attracts talent, maintains quality, and drives operational excellence. An Army veteran with an MBA in Engineering Management, Jeff leads LCAB’s strategy of acquiring specialized construction companies, building a resilient network that addresses industry fragmentation and labor shortages while raising the standard for subcontractor performance. With a disciplined, long-term approach to leadership and growth, Jeff is committed to shaping a more efficient and sustainable future for commercial construction. He also mentors veterans and military spouses through American Corporate Partners (ACP) and serves as a Parent Advisory Group Member for DC Public Schools. In this episode of the SABM podca
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#318: From Billion Dollar Success to Redemption: The Journey of Jeff Martinovich, USAFA ‘88
06/04/2025 Duration: 42minNeed financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/ Want to join us in San Antonio, TX on June 11th & 12th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events ____ Jeff Martinovich is a seasoned business advisor, entrepreneur, and U.S. Air Force veteran with a background in finance, leadership, and strategic growth. A former Gulf War officer, he went on to build a billion-dollar investment firm, gaining firsthand experience in high-performance leadership and navigating complexity under pressure. After a highly public legal battle that reshaped his views on resilience and integrity, Jeff now channels his experience into helping leaders grow with purpose and clarity. As a partner at ASH Business Advisory, he works alongside fellow Air Force Academy grads to support early-stage and mid-market companies through capital, executive support, and operational strategy. He’s the author of When Not If, a Forbes Books bestseller on leading through adversity, and speaks nationally on business grow
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#317: Scaling Success: From Restaurants to Real Estate with Mike Brumagin, USMA ‘89
05/04/2025 Duration: 40minNeed financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/ Want to join us in San Antonio, TX on June 11th & 12th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events ____ Mike Brumagin is a U.S. Army veteran, West Point graduate, and co-founder of Battle Monument Group, a private real estate investment firm specializing in single-tenant net lease properties. After earning the Bronze Star for his leadership during Operation Desert Storm, Mike spent over a decade building and managing national restaurant franchises before shifting his focus to real estate. At Battle Monument Group, he has led the acquisition of more than 100 properties across 20 states, primarily focused on mission-critical retail tenants like Dollar General. Through eight successful fundraises—entirely through relationships with veterans, advisors, and private investors—Mike has built a model centered on trust, long-term value, and predictable cash flow. His approach reflects a disciplined commitment to stable, income-produci
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#316: Building the Business Beyond the Battlefield Conference with Patrick Alcorn, USMA
21/03/2025 Duration: 35minNeed financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/ Want to join us in San Antonio, TX on June 11th & 12th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events ____ Patrick E. Alcorn is a business strategist, veteran, and leadership coach committed to empowering entrepreneurs and organizations. As Director of the Veterans Business Outreach Center, he supports military-connected business owners at every stage of growth. A former combat engineer and West Point graduate, Patrick applies strategic thinking and leadership to drive economic development and innovation. He founded Business Beyond the Battlefield Conference to foster community and provide resources for veteran entrepreneurs navigating business ownership. As a Maxwell Leadership Certified Coach, he mentors executives and emerging leaders, helping them advance into senior roles. Through his work, Patrick is reshaping perceptions of veteran entrepreneurship and highlighting the impact of veteran-led businesses on the economy and
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#315: The Steady Leader: The Entrepreneurial Balancing Act with Schuyler Williamson, USMA ‘05
21/03/2025 Duration: 48minNeed financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/ Want to join us in San Antonio, TX on June 11th & 12th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events ____ Schuyler Williamson is an accomplished leader with a background in business, real estate, and mentorship. A West Point graduate and former college baseball player, he brings a competitive mindset and strategic approach to every endeavor. As the founder of Williamson Group Real Estate, he has built a thriving business as a real estate professional, investor, and entrepreneur. As the author of The Steady Leader, Schuyler shares his expertise in leadership and personal development. Passionate about mentorship, he volunteers with SCORE Mentors to guide entrepreneurs and supports individuals with cognitive disabilities at Marbridge. He also speaks on leadership, business strategy, and resilience, helping others navigate challenges with confidence. Today, Schuyler is focused on expanding his business, mentoring the next generati
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#314: Scaling an Office Snack Business Nationwide with Claude Burns, USNA ‘06
14/03/2025 Duration: 31minNeed financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/ Want to join us in San Antonio, TX on June 11th & 12th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events ____ Claude Burns is a visionary entrepreneur, veteran, and startup founder transforming the workplace food and beverage industry. A former Navy Officer, he brings a mission-driven approach to leadership, strategy, and innovation. As the Founder and CEO of Office Libations, he is redefining B2B food service with a tech-driven model that optimizes inventory, reduces costs, and enhances service. Competing with industry giants, Office Libations has rapidly expanded operations across multiple markets, serving Fortune 500 firms and high-growth startups with a seamless, scalable solution. By combining technology with hospitality, Claude has built a company that delivers both efficiency and exceptional service, reshaping how businesses approach workplace amenities. With a strong foundation in operations and business growth, he is leadi
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#313: Leveraging AI and the ‘Grit Factor’ to Turn Your Dreams into Reality with Corey Reiser, USMA ‘11
24/02/2025 Duration: 41minNeed financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/ Want to join us in San Antonio, TX on June 11th & 12th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events ____ Corey Reiser is a former Army Artillery Officer, real estate investor, and founder of School of Grit. A Division I lacrosse player at the U.S. Military Academy, he built the discipline and resilience that shaped his career. After leaving the military, Corey applied those same principles to real estate, creating a successful portfolio and achieving financial freedom at a young age. Through School of Grit, he shares hard-earned lessons on mental toughness, self-reliance, and overcoming obstacles. Whether leading in the Army, competing on the field, or navigating business challenges, he believes in pushing limits and learning through experience. Outside of work, Corey enjoys traveling and seeking out new challenges that expand his perspective. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Corey about: From Military
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#312: Creating a Print on Demand Apparel Business for Schools, Sports, and the Military with David Baska, USAFA ’13
20/02/2025 Duration: 24minNeed financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/ Want to join us in San Antonio, TX on June 11th & 12th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events ____ David Baska is a dynamic leader with expertise in operations, finance, and strategic planning. As Chief Operating Officer at Swift Brands, he spearheads the company’s mission to revolutionize military-branded apparel and the broader apparel industry through innovative technology and U.S.-based on-demand manufacturing. A former officer in the U.S. Air Force, David served in space and military operations, earning honors such as the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, and later contributed as a program manager in the U.S. Space Force. An academy graduate and former collegiate baseball player, he brings a strong foundation in leadership and teamwork to his professional endeavors. David’s passion for innovation and dedication to excellence continue to drive meaningful advancements across industries, leaving a lasting impact. In
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#311: Financial Planning with Private Investments, Tax Loss Harvesting & Charitable Giving with David Chepauskas, USMA ‘77
15/02/2025 Duration: 42minNeed financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/ ____ With 33 years of experience, David Chepauskas specializes in solving problems and maximizing opportunities for senior Wall Street professionals, business owners, executives, and retirees. He is a partner at Summit Financial LLC, a leading independent financial planning firm serving the NJ Tri-State area. David is passionate about working with veterans and service academy graduates, leveraging his network to help them achieve their business goals and build meaningful relationships. His expertise spans retirement, estate, insurance, investment, and income tax planning. David’s goal is to provide tailored financial strategies to meet the unique needs of his clients. He enjoys connecting people and fostering professional connections that lead to growth. David’s deep knowledge and personal approach have made him a trusted advisor in his field. Show Notes: In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with David about
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#310: From West Point to Hollywood: Building a Filmmaking Career with Sean Mullin, USMA ‘97
08/02/2025 Duration: 33minNeed financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/ ____ Sean Mullin is an award-winning filmmaker known for his feature film debut, AMIRA & SAM, which won multiple film festivals and was distributed by Drafthouse Films. He co-wrote and co-produced SEMPER FI with Oscar-nominated director Henry-Alex Rubin, and produced ALLEGIANCE, both of which saw theatrical releases. Sean directed the documentary KINGS OF BEER and IT AIN’T OVER, the highest-grossing theatrical documentary of 2023, about baseball legend Yogi Berra. A former Army officer and first responder on 9/11, Sean holds an MFA from Columbia University and a B.S. from West Point. He is represented by UTA and runs Five By Eight Productions in Los Angeles. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Sean about: Filmmaking with Sean Mullen: From West Point to filmmaking Family Influence: How Sean’s entrepreneurial roots shaped his creative vision. Notable Projects: It Ain’t Over, the West Point rugby doc, and
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#309: Transforming Underutilized Properties in Texas into High Demand Assets with Michael Euperio (USMA ‘03) and Christian Catron (USMA ‘01)
18/01/2025 Duration: 31minNeed financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/ ____ Michael Euperio - Michael is the Chief Operating Officer at Redeem Investments, overseeing operations for a firm specializing in commercial real estate and renewable energy projects. His military background has shaped his leadership style, emphasizing discipline, strategic thinking, and adaptability. Michael values strong teams and strategic partnerships, which are central to his work at Redeem. As a founder and managing principal at K2DM Capital, he focuses on multifamily real estate investment. His approach prioritizes collaboration, integrity, and innovative strategies to achieve shared success. Christian Catron - Christian Catron has over 20 years of healthcare experience and has transitioned into real estate investment, specializing in strategic redevelopments and adaptive reuse projects in high-growth markets. As a co-founder of a visionary real estate firm, he collaborates with Michael, a seasoned professional in
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#307: Building a Faith Based Wealth Advisory Practice for Veterans and Business Owners with Michael Mandarino, USMA ’96
18/01/2025 Duration: 26minNeed financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/ Want to join us in Tampa on January 28th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events ____ Michael Mandarino is a seasoned financial advisor with over 20 years of experience in investment advisory and financial planning. As the owner of 123 Investing LLC and CEO of Soterios LLC, an SDVOSB, he specializes in faith-based investing, tax-advantaged strategies, retirement planning, and charitable giving solutions. Michael is dedicated to serving transitioning military officers, religious organizations, charities, and small businesses, offering expertise in planned giving and biblical-responsible investing. A West Point graduate and former U.S. Army Platoon Leader, Michael collaborates with CPAs and Enrolled Agents to ensure comprehensive financial oversight. His work has been featured in Proactive Advisor Magazine, and he educates others about investing through his YouTube channel. MIchaal Mandarino’s Securities & Investment Adviso
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#308: Combining Military Experience with Pastoral Wisdom to Transform Organizations and Develop Leaders with Gabe Smith, USMA ‘99
18/01/2025 Duration: 30minNeed financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/ ____ Gabe Smith is a leadership strategist and organizational development expert who blends military discipline, pastoral insight, and business acumen to drive transformational growth. As the founder of Altitude Consulting, LLC, he coaches leaders to navigate challenges and achieve strategic clarity. A West Point graduate and Ranger-qualified Infantry Officer, Gabe served eight years in the Army, including leading operations in Mosul, Iraq, and during the 9/11 Pentagon response. Post-military, he held leadership roles at Forest Hill Church, Mesa Global, and New City Church, managing budgets and driving organizational growth. Gabe also co-founded the nonprofit East Mountain in South Africa and Pangea, focusing on leadership development. Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, he is dedicated to helping leaders clarify purpose and create lasting impact. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Gabe about: The Vision B