• Haley transitioned from Army cook to successful business owner, overcoming challenges through discipline and adaptability
• She built and sold a thriving indoor playground business (Nido) focused on supporting mothers and children
• Now working with Southern Comfort Tiny Homes to create veteran support communities and healing spaces
• Emphasizes importance of self-care, mentorship, and community for veteran entrepreneurs

• Grew up in upstate New York, joined Army in 2012 as a cook (92G)
• Deployed to Afghanistan shortly after marrying fellow soldier
• Medically discharged in 2015 due to fish allergy and deployment impacts
• Used GI Bill for health/wellness and nutrition science education

• Started Nido, an indoor playground business, to fill need for baby/toddler spaces
• Implemented Montessori-style approach and created supportive community for mothers
• Grew quickly, considered franchising before health issues prompted sale
• Leveraged SBA resources, Pathway Lending support, and industry-specific Facebook groups

• Relationship coordinator role, focusing on veteran support initiatives
• Partnering with Warrior Homestead to create transitional living communities for veterans
• Aims to provide 6-12 month stays with comprehensive support services (financial, mental health, career guidance)

• Location is crucial for brick-and-mortar businesses
• Double expected startup costs to account for unexpected expenses

Joe was born in Memphis, Tennessee and grew up in Chicago. His grandfather, a WWII veteran, was a major influence and role model for him. Joe was a quiet, introverted youth who got involved in journalism and the military cadet program, which helped him become more extroverted and develop leadership skills.

Joe joined the Navy as a journalist, serving on ships, in Iceland, and in San Francisco. He covered major events like the San Francisco earthquake and the Iran Air Flight 655 incident. Joe's military experience taught him resilience, adaptability, and the importance of service to others.

After leaving the Navy, Joe struggled to find his footing, going bankrupt and becoming briefly homeless. He eventually started a resume writing business for veterans, but it was not sustainable. This led him to take on various training and facilitation roles, including with the military's base realignment and closure process.

Joe founded Camp Liberty, a 75-acre patriotic training venue and military summer camp. He discusses the challenges of running a facility like this without government funding, the importance of passionate staff, and the impact the camp has on young people, with 68% of repeat campers going on to serve.

Joe's passion is serving those who have worn the uniform, whether through the camp programs or other outreach. He is driven by the positive impact he can have on young people and veterans, and his belief in service to country and community.

1. Guest Background:

Yamil is the founder of Leaders Make Leaders, a business centered around leadership development and financial services. He helps individuals and families create financial plans, focusing on investments, insurance, and mortgages. Yamil's business goes beyond typical financial advising by offering free financial planning and charging for products and services only when needed, fostering trust and long-term relationships. His vision is to grow an organization of leaders, providing opportunities for others to build their own teams and agencies. Through his business model, Yamil emphasizes leadership, not just salesmanship, and seeks to create a strong culture of mentorship and growth.

2. Key Points Discussed:

• Transition Planning: Yamil stresses the importance of planning at least a year ahead of time for a smooth transition from military to civilian life.
• Building an Agency vs. Salesperson Role: In his industry, Yamil highlights the value of building an agency with a team rather than being just a salesperson. By developing a group of agents, it's possible to create a sustainable, scalable business model that generates consistent income.
• Steps to Start in Financial Services: Yamil walks through the process of becoming licensed in the financial industry—either by self-funding the licensing or finding an organization that will sponsor it. He encourages aspiring financial professionals to take action, even if unsure at first, as the experience will be valuable regardless of the outcome.
• Leadership in Business: At the core of his business is the principle of leadership development. Yamil's goal is to help his team members grow into leadership roles and build their own teams, leading to financial success for everyone involved.

3. Takeaways for the Audience:

• Preparation is Key: Starting early and preparing for the transition from military to civilian life is essential for success.
• Mentorship Matters: Finding a mentor who has been successful in the field can significantly accelerate personal growth and understanding.
• Go All In: Committing to your passion and taking the necessary steps—whether through formal education or hands-on experience—is the best way to discover if it’s the right path for you.
• Dream Big: Set ambitious goals that not only drive personal success but also impact others positively.

4. Way Ahead for Leaders Make Leaders:

Yamil’s vision is to build an organization where 43 people are earning at least $1 million per year. This goal is driven by his desire to not only generate wealth but also to use it to support charitable causes, such as foster care, and create a lasting impact in the world. He sees financial success as a tool to make a difference, with the ultimate goal being to have his business transform lives both professionally and personally.

Find Yamil:

Social Media: @LeadersMakeLeaders

Website: LeadersMakeLeaders.org

This episode is a powerful example of how passions can evolve and how with the right mindset and preparation, anyone—especially veterans—can transition into a thriving business, no matter when they start. Yamil's leadership-driven approach offers valuable insights for anyone looking to create meaningful change in their own lives and businesses.