DogTags to Ownership cover art

DogTags to Ownership

DogTags to Ownership

By: Julie Austin and Matthew Cain
Listen for free

LIMITED TIME OFFER | £0.99/mo for the first 3 months

Premium Plus auto-renews at £8.99/mo after 3 months. Terms apply.

About this listen

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

© 2026 DogTags to Ownership
Economics Political Science Politics & Government
Episodes
  • S2:E3: Ash Stafford on Empowering Veterans Through Forces Brand
    Jan 20 2026

    Send us a text

    Summary

    In this conversation, Ash, a member of the British Armed Forces and founder of Forces Brand, discusses his journey from military service to entrepreneurship. He shares the inspiration behind Forces Brand, which aims to support veteran-owned businesses through a marketplace and community platform. The discussion covers the challenges of building the brand, the importance of community support, and advice for transitioning veterans looking to start their own businesses. Ash emphasizes the significance of personal development, customer service, and surrounding oneself with positive influences.

    Takeaways

    • Forces Brand started as a podcast focused on creativity among veterans.
    • The app aims to engage users directly with veteran businesses.
    • Building an app is challenging, especially for those without a tech background.
    • Ash emphasizes the importance of personal development in entrepreneurship.
    • Community support is crucial for veteran businesses to thrive.
    • Customer service can significantly impact business success.
    • Not all support will come from expected sources; strangers can be allies.
    • Surrounding oneself with positive people is essential for growth.
    • The journey of entrepreneurship requires self-motivation and discipline.
    • Ash recommends books that focus on understanding different perspectives.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Forces Brand and Ash's Background
    02:39 The Birth of Forces Brand: A Mission to Support Veterans
    05:23 Transitioning from Military to Entrepreneur: Challenges and Learning
    08:19 Building the Forces Brand App: A New Avenue for Engagement
    11:08 The Importance of Community and Networking in Business
    13:36 Expanding Forces Brand: Global Aspirations and Collaborations
    16:17 The Directory and Verification Process for Veteran Businesses
    18:51 Challenges in the Veteran Business Landscape
    21:27 Advice for Transitioning Veterans: Building a Supportive Network
    23:59 Financial Sustainability and Growth Strategies for Forces Brand
    26:52 Personal Challenges and Overcoming Self-Doubt
    29:30 Final Thoughts and Recommendations for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

    Check Forces Brand Website: https://www.forcesbrands.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

    Show More Show Less
    35 mins
  • S2:E2: From Service to Strategy: Patrick Murphy on Empowering Veterans Through Entrepreneurship
    Jan 13 2026

    Send us a text

    Summary

    In this episode, Patrick Murphy, a veteran and former congressman, shares his journey from military service to entrepreneurship and political leadership. He discusses the importance of veterans transitioning into civilian life, the need for financial literacy, and the role of veterans as civic assets. Murphy emphasizes the significance of networking, community building, and the impact of entrepreneurship on veterans' lives. He also shares personal insights on leadership, daily habits, and future aspirations for veterans in public service.

    Takeaways

    • Veterans have a unique perspective that can benefit society.
    • Transitioning from military to civilian life requires planning and support.
    • Entrepreneurship is a viable path for veterans seeking independence.
    • Financial literacy is crucial for successful business ownership.
    • Networking is essential for personal and professional growth.
    • Veterans should be encouraged to pursue political public service.
    • Community engagement can amplify the voices of veterans.
    • Daily habits and routines contribute to effective leadership.
    • Understanding the importance of civic responsibility is vital for veterans.
    • The narrative around veterans should focus on their strengths, not their struggles.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Patrick J. Murphy
    01:05 Military Background and Service
    03:39 Transitioning to Civilian Life and Politics
    07:27 Legislative Achievements and Advocacy
    12:05 Entrepreneurship and Supporting Veteran-Owned Businesses
    16:31 Leadership and Daily Habits for Success
    21:57 Vision for the Future: Empowering Veterans in Politics
    24:59 Balancing Act: Managing Time and Priorities
    27:25 Financial Responsibility: The Key to Personal and National Stability
    30:56 Networking: Your Net Worth is Your Network
    34:34 Advice for Success: Living a Purpose-Driven Life
    39:08 Final Thoughts: The Importance of Small Habits
    41:07 Introduction to Dog Tags to Ownership
    41:24 Empowering Veterans in Entrepreneurship
    41:46 Building a Community for Success

    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

    Show More Show Less
    37 mins
  • S2:E1: Four Branches Bourbon: A Veteran's Tribute
    Jan 6 2026

    Send us a text

    In this episode, Rick Franco shares his remarkable journey from military service to entrepreneurship, detailing the challenges and triumphs of transitioning into the bourbon industry with Four Branches Bourbon. He emphasizes the importance of community, resilience, and the mission behind the brand, which aims to honor veterans and promote a positive message around alcohol consumption. The conversation explores the complexities of starting a business in a highly regulated industry and the significance of giving back to the veteran community.

    https://www.fourbranches.com/

    Chapters

    00:00 From Military Service to Entrepreneurship
    16:30 The Birth of Four Branches Bourbon
    32:49 Navigating the Bourbon Industry
    39:59 Sip to Remember: A New Message
    47:29 Lessons Learned and Final Thoughts

    Takeaways

    Rick Franco shares his journey from DogTags to Ownership.

    • The transition from military to civilian life can be challenging.
    • Four Branches Bourbon was founded to honor veterans and give back to the community.
    • The bourbon industry is highly regulated and complex.
    • Building a network and seeking mentorship is crucial in business.
    • The message of 'Sip to Remember' aims to change how veterans engage with alcohol.
    • Rick emphasizes the importance of finding your 'why' in business.
    • The company donates 4% of profits to veteran nonprofits.
    • Persistence and resilience are key to overcoming challenges in business.
    • Making your bed symbolizes discipline and control over your environment.






    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

    Show More Show Less
    51 mins
No reviews yet