Service Academy Business Mastermind

The Service Academy Business Mastermind (SABM) is filled with U.S. Service Academy graduates on an entrepreneurial-, career- and business-building adventure. We are a community of Academy grads who create exponential value for each other through new learning, collaboration and connections. Our core purpose is to help Service Academy graduates achieve freedom of time, money, happiness and purpose through entrepreneurship and business ownership. There are lots of programs out there to help Service Academy graduates transition from a military to a civilian career. But how about a program to help Academy grads transition into entrepreneurship? Or to take their business to a 10X level? The podcast is where we showcase entrepreneurial success stories from the community. The podcast is produced by the SABM Group, LLC, a private organization that is not affiliated with the U.S. Service Academies or their respective alumni associations.

#353: Modernizing Capital Raising with Jesse Prince, USMA ‘04 03/26/2026

#353: Modernizing Capital Raising with Jesse Prince, USMA ‘04 Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: Want to join us in Charleston, SC on June 1st & 2nd? Visit: ____ Jesse Prince is an Army veteran who served nearly six years on active duty, including two combat tours to Iraq. After transitioning from the military, he built a career in commercial real estate brokerage while earning his Master’s in Real Estate Finance from NYU, graduating near the top of his class and deepening his expertise in institutional-level real estate. Today, Jesse is the founder of IncrediVer, an AI-powered accredited investor verification and qualification platform for private fund managers and capital raisers. An engineer by training with years of experience in securities offerings and real estate technology, he helps issuers streamline compliance, reduce onboarding friction, and move serious investors from interest to investment more efficiently. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Jesse about: From Platoon Leader to Principal: How Jesse bridged a decade of military service with institutional real estate knowledge to compete with seasoned professionals. Building IncrediVer from Scratch: How Jesse identified a broken accreditation process and built an AI-powered tool that reduces 5–7 day verifications to under two minutes. Turning Your Website into a Conversion Engine: How IncrediVer transforms a static marketing page into an active lead scoring and qualification system for issuers. 506(b) vs. 506(c), Breaking It Down: The key differences between private and publicly solicited offerings and how IncrediVer removes the biggest barrier to going 506(c). The Billion-Dollar One-Man Company: Jesse's long-term vision of building a technology-driven, AI-powered capital markets company through warm introductions and strategic growth. Timestamps: 00:52 Jesse’s Military Background 02:04 Real Estate Pivot and NYU 03:52 Low Minimum Investing Idea 05:43 Problem with Accreditation Verification 07:52 Building IncrediVer Fast 14:08 How the Funnel Works 21:47 Beyond Compliance Differentiation 23:11 Goals and Moonshot Vision 25:58 506B vs 506C Deep Dive Connect with Jesse: If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode subscribe now and help support the show: Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Jesse for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01 /episode/index/show/sabmgroup/id/40633260

#352: Building Workforce Housing to Close Supply Gaps in Growing Markets with Tom O’Hare, USNA ’01 03/19/2026

#352: Building Workforce Housing to Close Supply Gaps in Growing Markets with Tom O’Hare, USNA ’01 Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: Want to join us in Charleston, SC on June 1st & 2nd? Visit: ____ Tom O’Hare is a U.S. Navy veteran and the founder of Keel Capital and Keel Home Development, where he leads multifamily and infill residential projects across the Midwest and Northern Virginia. Before starting his own companies, Tom spent 17 years in real estate investment banking and later served as CIO and COO of a national single-family rental platform. During that time, he worked on large institutional portfolios and gained firsthand experience in how deals are evaluated, financed, and executed at scale. He now brings that perspective into his own development work. Today, Tom focuses on workforce housing and ground-up projects that help close supply gaps in growing markets. He partners with investors, local governments, and community stakeholders to move projects from concept to completion and deliver housing that meets real community needs. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Tom about: Stepping Into Entrepreneurship: What it took for Tom to leave a corporate executive role and “turn pro” as a full-time developer Midwest Multifamily Strategy: Why markets like Michigan and Ohio offer strong demand, supply gaps, and favorable development incentives Urban Infill Development: How shorter-cycle projects in Northern Virginia complement long-term multifamily developments The Brixton Project: A 148-unit workforce housing development backed by tax increment financing and strong rent fundamentals Deal Sourcing Through Relationships: Why Tom finds the best opportunities through networks, direct outreach, and boots-on-the-ground insights. Timestamps: 00:28 Tom's Real Estate Journey 01:20 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 04:46 Types of Real Estate Projects 07:57 Current Projects and Market Focus 10:12 Future Goals and Plans 14:31 Sourcing Deals and Partnerships Connect with Tom: If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode subscribe now and help support the show: Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Tom for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01 /episode/index/show/sabmgroup/id/40544495

#351: Building a Multi-Billion-Dollar Real Estate Platform Through Disciplined Investing with Tim Siemer, USAFA ‘06 & Mike Siemer 03/16/2026

#351: Building a Multi-Billion-Dollar Real Estate Platform Through Disciplined Investing with Tim Siemer, USAFA ‘06 & Mike Siemer Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: Want to join us in Charleston, SC on June 1st & 2nd? Visit: ____ Tim Siemer is an Air Force veteran, aviator, and partner at SMB Equity, a real estate private equity firm investing in stabilized and development projects nationwide. At SMB, Tim focuses on evaluating new opportunities and managing investor relationships, applying a disciplined risk management approach shaped by years in military and commercial aviation. He works alongside his father, Mike Siemer, who transitioned into real estate investing after a career as a CPA and corporate CFO for both public and private companies. Over the past 24 years, Mike has helped lead SMB Equity through more than $3 billion in transactions, scaling the firm through long-term partnerships, disciplined underwriting, and a focus on tangible, value-driven assets. Together, they combine generational experience, financial expertise, and risk discipline to offer individual investors access to institutional real estate opportunities. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Mike and Tim about: Scaling a Multi-Billion-Dollar Real Estate Platform: Mike’s transition from CPA and corporate CFO to leading more than $3 billion in real estate transactions over the past two decades. Choosing Ownership Early: Tim investing his Academy loan into real estate instead of spending it, reinforcing a long-term asset-based wealth strategy. Risk Management in Real Estate: Applying aviation discipline to deal evaluation, downside protection, and structured decision making. The Power of Relationships: SMB’s emphasis on trusted operators, repeat partnerships, and character as the first filter in any investment. Alternative Investments with Discipline: Positioning private real estate as a complementary asset class within a diversified portfolio. Timestamps: 01:02 SMB Equity Overview 01:45 Origins And Early Deals 05:35 Selling Before The 2008 Crash 06:54 Post Recession Pivot 09:24 Investor Base And Tax Edge 11:36 Tim Joins The Business 17:53 Deal Sniff Test Framework 24:27 Deal Types And Structure 30:45 2026 Goals And Investor Mindset Connect with Mike and Tim: If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode subscribe now and help support the show: Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Tim for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01 /episode/index/show/sabmgroup/id/40495690

#350: The One-Stop Platform Helping Financial Advisors Work Smarter with Ryan Dau, USAFA ‘17 03/08/2026

#350: The One-Stop Platform Helping Financial Advisors Work Smarter with Ryan Dau, USAFA ‘17 Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: Want to join us in Charleston, SC on June 1st & 2nd? Visit: ____ Ryan Dau is a former Air Force officer, and founder of ReframeRIA, a consultancy that helps financial advisors streamline their operations, refine their client experience, and optimize their technology stack. Through ReframeRIA, Ryan partners with advisory firms to improve their workflows, refine their client experience, and implement technology that truly supports their businesses. His mission is simple: remove the operational chaos that slows advisors down so they can spend more time serving clients and growing their firms with confidence. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Ryan about: The Nonlinear Career Path: Ryan’s Military, software, and advisory experience shaped his transition into consulting. Serving the Advisor, Not the Tech: Work begins with clarifying an advisor’s ideal client and core processes before any tech is added. Fixing Operational Chaos: Streamlined onboarding, workflows, and service calendars help advisors reclaim time. The Rise of AI Note-Taking Tools: AI tools like Jump AI simplify communication and sync data across essential systems. Building Partnerships & Scaling Smart: Ryan’s 2026 goals center on advisor partnerships and exploring a future fractional C-Suite Model. Mindset Shifts After Military Service: Adjusting from mission-first service to revenue driven entrepreneurship remains an ongoing mission. Timestamps: 00:41 Ryan’s Path to Reframe 03:41 Advisor Pain Points 05:51 Workflow Before Tools 09:01 2026 Goals and Growth 11:42 Fractional C Suite Vision 17:12 Partnerships to Build 19:02 Challenges and Mindset Shift 24:44 Moonshot Be Better Brand 28:37 Connect and Wrap Up Connect with Ryan: If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode subscribe now and help support the show: Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Ryan for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01 /episode/index/show/sabmgroup/id/40358565

#349: Helping Veterans Break Into Tech Sales with Andrew Garcia, USNA ‘10 02/26/2026

#349: Helping Veterans Break Into Tech Sales with Andrew Garcia, USNA ‘10 Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: Want to join us in Charleston, SC on June 1st & 2nd? Visit: ____ Andrew Garcia is a U.S. Navy veteran and founder of and , two businesses focused on helping veterans and transitioning professionals break into the tech industry. After a successful career in tech sales at Salesforce, Andrew launched The Arena to provide veteran-friendly recruiting services for defense tech startups. He later expanded his mission through Pursuit, a career training platform designed to help aspiring tech sales professionals land their first role. Today, The Arena partners with growing companies to place high-performing sales talent, while Pursuit offers coaching, community, and an online platform that helps job seekers prepare for interviews, build professional habits, and stay accountable. With a long-term vision to build a full career pipeline, Andrew combines mentorship, training, and recruiting to help veterans succeed in high-growth industries. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Andrew about: Building a Dual Business Model: How The Arena and Pursuit work together to serve job seekers and hiring managers across the full tech sales career journey. From Salesforce to Startup Founder: Why Andrew left a stable career to test his skills and pursue entrepreneurship full time. The Pursuit Platform: What makes Pursuit training cohorts different, and how the platform helps veterans land roles faster with more confidence. Lifetime Value: Why Andrew created a lifetime membership program that helps graduates land jobs not just once, but throughout their careers. Data-Driven Recruiting: How The Arena is building a defense-tech talent insights platform to help startups hire smarter and faster. Timestamps: 00:08 Joining the Chess Team and Soccer at the Academy 02:04 Founding The Arena and Pursuit 05:01 Challenges and Successes in Entrepreneurship 11:40 Goals and Future Plans 22:17 Marketing and Business DevelopmentTimestamps: Connect with Andrew: | If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode subscribe now and help support the show: Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Andrew for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01 /episode/index/show/sabmgroup/id/40238670

#348: Revolutionizing TDY: How Furniture and Tech Are Solving a $10B Problem with Steve Buchanan, USMA ‘99 02/15/2026

#348: Revolutionizing TDY: How Furniture and Tech Are Solving a $10B Problem with Steve Buchanan, USMA ‘99 Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: Want to join us in Charleston, SC on June 1st & 2nd? Visit: ____ Steve Buchanan is a U.S Army Veteran and the CEO of TDY Rentals, a company on a mission to transform the way government travelers experience temporary duty assignments. What started as a frustrating personal experience with TDY housing, turned into a purpose-driven venture to make extended stays feel less like deployments, and more like home. At TDY Rentals, Steve and his team provide fully furnished tech-enabled housing solutions tailored for government agencies, defense contractors, and active-duty personnel. With a focus on comfort, reliability and logistics, the company helps clients reduce cost, streamline coordination, and vastly improve the TDY experience. As a veteran entrepreneur, Steve is not just building a business, he’s reshaping the standard for federal travel. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Steve about: From One Unit to Nationwide Reach: How a single TDY rental turned into a multi-million dollar business built by veterans, for veterans. Logistics at Scale: The behind-the-scenes systems that allow TDY Rentals to furnish, service, and manage properties across the country. Government Travel, Reimagined: What federal travelers really need, and why traditional lodging options fall short. Lessons in Leadership: How military experience shaped Steve’s entrepreneurial journey and management style. A Mission to Serve: How TDY Rentals is creating long-term opportunities for veterans through hiring, partnerships, and purpose. Timestamps: 00:07 First Impressions of 10X Vets & Value of In-Person Connections 02:21 Introduction to TDY Rentals & Steve's Background 08:08 How TDY Rentals Started and Gained Traction 13:37 How the Business Works + Customer Experience 22:32 Lodging, Furnishing, and Creative Budgeting for TDY 24:07 2026 Goals, Revenue Growth, and Property Expansion Connect with Steve: If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode subscribe now and help support the show: Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Steve for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01 /episode/index/show/sabmgroup/id/40115185

#347: Scaling Businesses 10X in 3 Years with Jeff Evenson, USMA ‘90 02/06/2026

#347: Scaling Businesses 10X in 3 Years with Jeff Evenson, USMA ‘90 Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: Want to join us in Charleston, SC on June 1st & 2nd? Visit: ____ Jeff Evenson is an experienced business leader and scaling strategist at scaling.com, where he works with founders who are ready to move from early traction to sustained growth. Alongside Blake Erickson and Dr. Benjamin Hardy, he helps entrepreneurs shift from being day-to-day operators to becoming strategic leaders who design companies that scale. Over the last two decades, Jeff built and exited multiple businesses, including a $3.5M hair salon operation, a manufacturing firm, and a machine shop. He formally entered the coaching space in 2021 and recently joined scaling.com after an introduction from fellow West Point graduate Freddie Kim. Today, his work centers on helping business owners grow with clarity and discipline through three guiding principles: raising frame, raising floor, and sharpening focus. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Jeff about: From West Point to Multiple Exits: Jeff’s journey through the Army, corporate finance, business ownership, and the lessons learned from exiting companies through divorce and partnership dissolution. The Three Pillars of 10X Growth: How a simple, proven framework turns seemingly impossible goals into achievable ones in three years or less. The Print Shop Case Study: How one business owner went from $850K to a path toward $10M by eliminating sub-$5k clients and acquiring a $3M company with a built-in sales team. Operator to Architect: Why the biggest transformation isn’t in your business model, it’s in who you need to become to lead a 10x company. The Big Vision: Scaling.com’s goal to help 5,000 businesses scale simultaneously in the next two years. Timestamps: 01:02 Jeff's Journey from West Point to Scaling.com 05:02 Why 10X is Easier Than 2X 09:07 The Three Pillars: Frame, Floor, and Focus 12:34 Case Study: Scaling a Print Shop from $850K to $10M 26:57 Transformation Required, Operator to Architect 34:19 Scaling.com's Vision and How to Get Involved Connect with Jeff: If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode subscribe now and help support the show: Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Jeff for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01 /episode/index/show/sabmgroup/id/40015495

#346: How EOS Helps Founders Get Their Life Back with Kurt Greene, USMA ‘87 01/16/2026

#346: How EOS Helps Founders Get Their Life Back with Kurt Greene, USMA ‘87 Kurt Greene is a certified EOS Implementer at EOS Worldwide, where he helps leadership teams build stronger, more scalable companies. A graduate of West Point and an Army veteran, Kurt brings a unique mix of Fortune 500 leadership, HR expertise, and peer-group facilitation experience through Vistage Worldwide, Inc. He works with founders and executive teams to implement practical tools that cut through complexity so they can regain control, align their teams, and get back to their visionary role. Whether partnering with veteran-owned businesses or mission-driven entrepreneurs, Kurt’s work is grounded in service: helping leaders lead better, build healthier teams, and create workplaces people actually want to be part of. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Kurt about: The EOS Framework: Kurt explains how EOS equips overwhelmed business owners with tools to get out of the weeds and back to thinking big. Right People, Right Seat: The “right people, right seats” approach brings clarity to hiring and retention, helping teams align on values, roles, and performance. Visionaries vs. Integrators: Founders can’t keep straddling roles forever. Defining the integrator role frees up leaders to lead, and keeps the trains running on time. EOS Life: A business should work for you, not the other way around. EOS makes space for leaders to do what they love, with people they enjoy, and get paid fairly for it, Veteran-Led Goals: With a service-driven mission, more veteran-led businesses are using EOS to create healthy, well-led teams and long-term growth. Timestamps: 00:31 Kurt's Journey to Becoming an EOS Implementer 03:28 Common Challenges Faced by Business Owners 06:40 The EOS Life and Its Benefits 07:22 The EOS Implementation Process 10:58 Key EOS Tools and Frameworks 16:47 Structuring the Leadership Team 27:05 Kurt's Business Goals and Vision 32:37 Conclusion and Contact Information Connect with Kurt: (865) 407-0703 If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode subscribe now and help support the show: Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Kurt for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01 /episode/index/show/sabmgroup/id/39762320

#345: Helping Veterans Thrive Through Wild Bill’s Franchise with Michael Quilty, USNA ‘88 01/08/2026

#345: Helping Veterans Thrive Through Wild Bill’s Franchise with Michael Quilty, USNA ‘88 Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: ____ Michael Quilty (USNA '88) is a Navy veteran and franchise development leader who's built his career around creating opportunities for others. After years leading growth and strategy across multiple industries, he's now focused on helping fellow veterans transition to entrepreneurship through franchising. At Wild Bill’s, he plays a key role in growing the company’s franchise footprint, and expanding the presence of their nostalgic craft soda brand across the country. Michael’s work focuses on identifying the right partners, particularly military veterans for opportunities that combine operational excellence with community engagement. His leadership is driven by purpose: helping others succeed while scaling a mission-led business. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Michael about: The Wild Bill’s Franchise Model: A turnkey opportunity centered on events, nostalgia, and customer engagement. Veteran Empowerment: How franchising provides a path to ownership and autonomy after military service. Business Expansion: The challenges and rewards of scaling a product-driven brand through national events and local franchises. Leadership and Mindset: Why teamwork, resilience, and adaptability matter most in business. Looking Ahead: The future of Wild Bill’s and how others can get involved. Timestamps: 00:26 Surviving the COVID-19 Pandemic 04:43 The Origin Story of Wild Bill's Soda 07:40 The Business Model and Franchise Expansion 12:23 A Day in the Life of a Franchisee 18:00 Future Goals and Opportunities 28:18 Conclusion and Contact Information Connect with Michael: If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode subscribe now and help support the show: Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Michael for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01 /episode/index/show/sabmgroup/id/39661115

#344: Helping High School Students Navigate the Service Academy Admissions Journey with Travis Wittick, USAFA ‘07 01/05/2026

#344: Helping High School Students Navigate the Service Academy Admissions Journey with Travis Wittick, USAFA ‘07 Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: Want to join us in Tampa, FL on January 26th & 27th? Visit: ____ Travis Wittick is the founder of Academy Endeavors, a coaching company that helps high school students navigate the competitive and complex admissions process for U.S. Service Academies and ROTC scholarships. A graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy and former Air Force hospital administrator, Travis first discovered his passion for mentorship as an Academy Liaison Officer helping students prepare their applications while still on active duty. After transitioning to the civilian sector and earning his MBA from Duke, Travis launched Academy Endeavors in 2020 leaving his corporate job and betting on his vision full-time. Since then, the company has grown steadily, with an 85% success rate and 40–50% year-over-year growth. Travis and his growing team of Academy graduate coaches now support families across the country with application strategy, essay development, interview prep, and ongoing guidance from freshman year to appointment day. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Travis about: The Mission Behind Academy Endeavors: Helping families gain clarity, confidence, and strategic support throughout the service academy admissions journey. From Side Hustle to Full-Time Impact: How Travis made the leap from corporate America to founder and gained traction during COVID. A Coach’s Perspective: Why application success starts with storytelling, mentorship, and early preparation. Growing a Values-Driven Team: His vision for hiring Academy grads as assistant coaches and culture carriers. Academy vs. ROTC Options: Helping students and families make informed decisions that lead to service and scholarship opportunities even outside the academy path. Timestamps: 00:36 Travis’s Background and Academy Experience 08:06 Launching Academy Endeavors 11:17 Early Success and COVID-19 Impact 13:46 Ideal Start Time for Academy Preparation 23:45 Indirect Benefits for College Applications 34:25 Hiring and Team Expansion Connect with Travis: If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode subscribe now and help support the show: Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Travis for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01 /episode/index/show/sabmgroup/id/39610725

#343: Leveraging AI to Close Real Estate Loans Faster with Zach Farkas, Army Veteran 12/15/2025

#343: Leveraging AI to Close Real Estate Loans Faster with Zach Farkas, Army Veteran Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: Want to join us in Tampa, FL on January 26th & 27th? Visit: ____ Speaker Bio: Zach Farkas is the founder of Relos, a proptech company automating real estate workflows to streamline transaction coordination and reduce hours of manual work. Before launching Relos, Zach was the #4 ranked VA lender in the nation, a career he built by focusing not on volume, but on educating veterans about how to leverage their VA home loan benefits. A former Army officer, Zach built his lending business by combining his personal mission with practical insight, and carried that same energy into Relos. Frustrated by the inefficiencies in real estate operations. He created a system that uses AI to extract contract data, assign stakeholder tasks, and help lenders save up to 12 hours per transaction. Now, Zach’s focused on scaling Relos into a category-defining platform. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Zach about: From Lender to Founder: How Zach built a top lending career by educating veterans before shifting into proptech. The Problem with Real Estate Ops: Why outdated workflows are still the norm, and what Relos is doing about it. AI-Powered Contract Automation: How Relos reads real estate contracts and turns them into stakeholder action plans. User Experience is Everything: Why customer success is more important than sales for long-term adoption. Big Vision, Big Surface Area: Zach’s plan to build the next proptech unicorn by owning the transaction workflow. Timestamps: 00:41 Zach's Journey to Becoming a Top VA Lender 04:08 Transitioning from Lending to Real Estate Technology 08:32 How REOs Works: Streamlining Real Estate Transactions 11:51 Goals and Future Vision for REOs 14:01 Challenges and How You Can Help 15:21 Conclusion and Contact Information Connect with Zach: If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode subscribe now and help support the show: Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Zach for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01 /episode/index/show/sabmgroup/id/39410050

#342: Strengthening the Backbone of Business (and Self) with Omar Ritter, USMA ‘00 11/30/2025

#342: Strengthening the Backbone of Business (and Self) with Omar Ritter, USMA ‘00 Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: Want to join us in Tampa, FL on January 26th & 27th? Visit: ____ Omar Ritter is a West Point graduate, fractional CFO, and the author of West Point to Wall Street: My Journey to Mental Wellness. Currently serving as an Area President at FocusCFO, he helps small and mid-sized businesses improve their financial visibility and achieve sustainable growth. With a career spanning financial leadership, entrepreneurship, and military service, Omar works to strengthen the backbone of small business communities through expert financial guidance and genuine care. At FocusCFO, Omar provides business owners with fractional CFO support, helping them clarify their financials, structure operations, and prepare for strategic exits or growth opportunities. Beyond numbers, Omar is an advocate for mental wellness in high-performing communities, openly sharing his own journey through burnout, healing, and growth. His work bridges financial strategy and personal resilience, empowering others to succeed in business and life. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Omar about: FocusCFO’s Model: How fractional CFO services help business owners regain clarity and control. Mental Health Advocacy: Why high performers need to prioritize emotional and psychological well-being. The Power of Structure: How Omar helps businesses build financial systems that drive growth. Lessons from Burnout: Personal insights from Omar’s journey through mental health challenges and healing. From Book to Mission: The story behind West Point to Wall Street and the message it carries for fellow leaders. Timestamps: 00:54 Omar's Background and Focus CFO 02:24 Services Offered by Focus CFO 05:54 When to Hire a Fractional CFO 08:57 Case Study: Transforming a Business 18:13 The Importance of Mental Wellness 30:14 Conclusion and Contact Information Connect with Omar: If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode subscribe now and help support the show: Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Omar for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01 /episode/index/show/sabmgroup/id/39207235

#341: Helping Defense Contractors Work Smarter with AI, Anthony Pinto USNA ‘14 11/03/2025

#341: Helping Defense Contractors Work Smarter with AI, Anthony Pinto USNA ‘14 Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: ____ Anthony Pinto is the founder of Veteran Vectors, an AI consulting and automation company serving defense and government contractors. A former submarine officer with nine years of service, Anthony previously appeared on the SABM podcast in April 2020 while still on active duty, managing real estate deals from overseas. After leaving the Navy and navigating the challenges of military spouse life, Anthony pivoted from real estate to launch Veteran Vectors in 2025. His company helps small and medium-sized defense tech companies compete with prime contractors by automating manual processes, streamlining compliance audits, and building custom AI solutions. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Anthony about: Veteran Vectors Mission: Helping defense and government contractors use AI to automate manual processes in HR, compliance, and backend operations. The RAPID Framework: Identifying tasks for automation using criteria like repetitive, accuracy-driven, process-driven, input-heavy, and digitized workflows. Real-World Applications: Examples include payroll automation, job search tools, and CMMC compliance audits that save hundreds of hours and thousands of dollars. Military Spouse Entrepreneurship: Building a remote business that provides flexibility during frequent relocations and duty station changes. Family First Philosophy: Taking a six-month break from real estate to focus on family after his first daughter's NICU stay and finding clarity in the process. Timestamps: 00:31 Catching Up: Life Changes and Career Shifts 01:32 Introducing Veteran Vectors 02:02 The Mission of Veteran Vectors 03:47 From Real Estate to AI: A Personal Journey 09:37 AI Solutions for Business Efficiency 17:05 Future Goals and Vision 23:01 Balancing Family and Career Connect with Anthony: If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode subscribe now and help support the show: Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Anthony for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01 /episode/index/show/sabmgroup/id/38889525

#340: Building a National Real Estate Brand for Veterans with Travis Winfield, USN Ret.‘16 10/24/2025

#340: Building a National Real Estate Brand for Veterans with Travis Winfield, USN Ret.‘16 Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: ____ Travis Winfield is the founder of Military Operated Real Estate, and author of the upcoming book Military Money and More. A retired Navy Command Senior Chief with 24 years of service, Travis founded the Winfield Group in Southern California, successfully helping 100-150 military families per year before passing the business to his son in 2024. Recognizing that less than 12% of the nearly 20 million active duty and veteran population has used their VA home loan benefit, Travis launched MORE to create the first national real estate brand exclusively serving the military community. With military-affiliated certified agents, SkillBridge integration, and VA-approved education benefits for real estate training, MORE aims to become the trusted resource for veterans coast to coast, the "USAA of real estate." In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Travis about: Military Operated Real Estate (MORE): Creating a national brand connecting veterans with military-affiliated certified agents. Mission Before Commission: Training agents as resource managers who understand veteran benefits beyond transactions. SkillBridge and Ambassador Programs: Leveraging VA benefits to create opportunities for transitioning members and military spouses. Financial Literacy Crisis: Addressing the education gap affecting military families through his book Military Money and More. Long-Term Vision: Making MORE the trusted real estate brand synonymous with USAA and Navy Federal. Timestamps: 00:37 Travis's Journey into Real Estate 01:43 Building the Winfield Group 02:10 Mission Before Commission 03:46 The Vision for Military Operated Real Estate 06:27 Financial Literacy and the New Book 07:39 Future Goals and Challenges 11:42 How the Platform Works Connect with Travis: If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode subscribe now and help support the show: Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Travis for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01 /episode/index/show/sabmgroup/id/38771445

#339: Growing America’s Padel Community with Dan Fitzgerald, Army Veteran 10/05/2025

#339: Growing America’s Padel Community with Dan Fitzgerald, Army Veteran Dan Fitzgerald is the Founder of the 40Forty Padel Club, a company bringing one of the world’s fastest growing sports to South Carolina and beyond. A Citadel graduate and former Army Infantry Officer, Dan went on to serve as a TAC officer at West Point, teach leadership, and build executive teams as a recruiter before discovering padel during his travels to South America. Hooked from the very first game, Dan saw an opportunity to introduce the sport to the U.S. market in a way that was both affordable and community-driven. Today, he leads 40Forty Padel Club with the mission to make padel accessible, grow the sport across universities and population centers, and create spaces where people connect through play, fitness, and community. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Dan about: The Rise of Padel: Why this international sport is exploding worldwide and how it differs from tennis, pickleball, and racquetball. Founding 40Forty Padel Club: Dan’s journey from Citadel cadet to Army officer, to entrepreneur building the first designated paddle club in South Carolina. Building Community: How paddle brings together men and women of all ages, fostering friendships, fitness, and healthy competition. Scaling Strategy: Starting with two courts at the Pickle Yard in Malden this fall, then expanding to a flagship six-to-eight-court facility. Long-Term Vision: Positioning paddle as an NCAA and Olympic sport, while growing clubs regionally and nationally through partnerships and creative land use. Timestamps: 00:31 The Correct Pronunciation: Paddle or Padel? 02:24 Founding 40 40 Paddle Club 04:02 Discovering Paddle: A Personal Journey 05:29 What is Paddle? 07:44 The Growth and Popularity of Paddle 10:19 Launching 40 40 Paddle Club 16:15 Future Plans and Expansion 29:03 Community Building and Health Benefits 32:08 Challenges and Opportunities 37:32 Conclusion and Contact InformationConnect with Dan: | If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode subscribe now and help support the show: Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Dan for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01 /episode/index/show/sabmgroup/id/38467980

#338: Building Affordable Survival Communities at Fortitude Ranch with Drew Miller, USAFA ‘80 09/29/2025

#338: Building Affordable Survival Communities at Fortitude Ranch with Drew Miller, USAFA ‘80 Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: Want to join us in San Francisco, CA on October 7th & 8th? Visit: ____ Drew Miller is the CEO of Fortitude Ranch, a survival and recreational community for disaster preparedness and everyday use. A former Air Force intelligence officer and longtime prepper, Drew founded Fortitude Ranch over a decade ago, creating a network of secure rural compounds supported by professionally organized teams and sustainable resources. With eight locations nationwide, Drew’s mission is to offer members affordable access to well defended, well-supplied communities. These are places to vacation in good times and also survive during societal collapse. Featuring defensive walls, cleared lines of fire, and a blend of staff from military and law enforcement backgrounds, Fortitude Ranch stands out for its depth of planning and national media recognition. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Drew about: Fortitude Ranch’s Mission: Delivering affordable professionally managed survival communities and recreational opportunities for the middle class. Survival Model and Member Experience: Combining secure compounds, armed and organized membership, farming and recreation for both collapse preparedness and yearly vacations. Growth and Expansion: Eight locations nationwide, including NY, WV, TN, WI, CO, NV, TX, with a focus on raising capital to build more sites and support franchise expansion. App Based Preparedness: The Collapse Survivor app provides threat alerts, training exercises, and offline access to Wikipedia and maps for emergencies. Industry Challenges: Operating in a sector unrecognized by traditional financing, countering misinformation, and advocating for civil defense reform. Long Term Vision: Publishing practical resources to change policy, increase government readiness, and protect ordinary Americans, not just elites, in the age of collapse. Timestamps: 00:12 Understanding Fortitude Ranch 01:50 The Concept of Collapse Survival 03:33 Origins of Fortitude Ranch 05:10 Locations and Media Coverage 06:34 Membership and Benefits 10:05 Future Goals and Challenges 18:21 Government and Preparedness Connect with Drew: If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode subscribe now and help support the show: Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Drew for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01 /episode/index/show/sabmgroup/id/38389885

#337: Bringing Institutional Discipline to Multifamily Investing with Curtis Cullen, USMA ‘09 09/12/2025

#337: Bringing Institutional Discipline to Multifamily Investing with Curtis Cullen, USMA ‘09 Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: Want to join us in San Francisco, CA on October 7th & 8th? Visit: ____ Curtis Cullen is the Co-Founder and Managing Principal of Convolo Capital, a real estate investment firm focused on small to mid-size multifamily syndications across the Southeast and Sunbelt markets. A West Point graduate, Curtis served as an Infantry and Aviation officer, including time as a Battalion Operations Officer, before exiting the Army in 2018 to pursue a career in commercial real estate. After the Army, Curtis built his business and finance expertise in corporate roles that included managing multi-million-dollar strategic initiatives, automating enterprise systems, and conducting market research to support executive decision-making. He later earned his MBA from UCLA with a concentration in Real Estate and Finance before co-founding Convolo Capital in 2020. Today, he leads acquisitions and asset management, guiding properties from purchase through stabilization with disciplined, value-add strategies. With operations growing across Georgia and Texas, Curtis remains focused on growth, vertical integration, and building investor partnerships that drive long-term value. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Curtis about: Convolo Capital’s Mission: Bringing professional management and Institutional discipline to smaller multifamily portfolios The Deal Process: How his team finds opportunities, underwrites with rigor, and maintains a disciplined focus on returns. Market Expansion: Scaling beyond Georgia into Texas and considering other Southern states as next steps. Team Building: Adding analysts and partners, and strengthening operator relationships for sustained performance. Capital Raising: Strategies and advice for connecting with investors, plus plans for upcoming breakout sessions. Long Term Vision: Pursuing vertical integration and reaching 1,000 units under management. Timestamps: 00:57 Curtis Cullen's Background and Career Journey 03:12 Current Deals and Market Strategy 11:40 Challenges and Lessons Learned in Real Estate 20:18 Future Goals and Expansion Plans 22:40 Networking and Collaboration Opportunities Connect with Curtis: If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode subscribe now and help support the show: Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Curtis for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01 /episode/index/show/sabmgroup/id/38188615

#336: Finding Opportunity at a Crossroads: Raj Kankaria and Lone Star Attorney Service, USMA ‘13 09/07/2025

#336: Finding Opportunity at a Crossroads: Raj Kankaria and Lone Star Attorney Service, USMA ‘13 Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: Want to join us in San Francisco, CA on October 7th & 8th? Visit: ____ Raj Kankaria is the President of Lone Star Attorney Service, a full-service litigation support firm and the largest process service company in Harris County, Texas. A West Point graduate and former Army engineer officer, Raj went on to hold leadership roles in investment banking and commercial strategy at Citi, Mexico Pacific, and WSI Enterprises. After discovering an overlooked corner of the legal services industry, he rolled up his sleeves, learned the business from the ground up, and eventually acquired the very company he once contracted for. Now, he’s focused on transforming Lone Star into a one-stop shop for litigation support services across Texas and beyond. With a sharp operational mindset and a hands-on approach, Raj is building a scalable platform that delivers speed, reliability, and trust to legal professionals nationwide. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Raj about: Entrepreneurial Journey: Turning a chance encounter into ownership by building trust and deep operational knowledge Business Growth: Scaling the company into a one-stop shop for litigation support services, including process serving, e-filing, videography, records retrieval, and judgement collection. Operational Challenges: Navigating the emotional and practical demands of employee management and implementing systematic processes. Industry Positioning: Seeking to become the leading provider for attorneys in Texas with nationwide service capabilities. Community Building: Actively connecting with other entrepreneurs and business owners for shared learning and growth. Timestamps: 00:09 Raj's Journey to Business Ownership 01:27 Discovering the Opportunity 03:17 Building Relationships and Trust 04:10 Acquiring Lone Star Attorney Service 12:42 Challenges and Goals as a New Business Owner 18:02 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 18:37 Connecting and Growing the BusinessConnect with Raj: If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode subscribe now and help support the show: Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Raj for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01 /episode/index/show/sabmgroup/id/38120080

#335: Transforming Restaurant Efficiency Through Real Time Data with Daniel Bednar, USNA ‘08 08/30/2025

#335: Transforming Restaurant Efficiency Through Real Time Data with Daniel Bednar, USNA ‘08 Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: Want to join us in San Francisco, CA on October 7th & 8th? Visit: ____ Daniel Bednar is an investor and advisor at Curbit, a technology company transforming the restaurant industry with real-time data and operational transparency. A U.S. Naval Academy graduate and former Naval Officer, Daniel led technical operations and intelligence programs on the USS Makin Island, in Afghanistan, and at the Office of Naval Intelligence. After transitioning into finance and strategy, he’s applied that same mission-driven focus to helping startups scale with structure and speed. His partnership with Curbit grew from a collaboration into an active leadership role, where he now drives fundraising, builds strategic partnerships, and helps shape the company’s long-term growth. At Curbit, Daniel is focused on streamlining restaurant operations, delivering accurate wait-time predictions for guests, and equipping regional and mid-sized brands with scalable, data-driven tools for success. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Daniel about: Curbit’s Mission: Solving restaurant capacity management with real time tech solutions. The Problem They’re Solving: Addressing financial crises and credit barriers that threaten small business survival. Platform Functionality: Acting as an air traffic controller for restaurants by integrating kitchen display and point of sale systems. Target Market Strategy: Supporting medium sized and regional restaurant brands looking to sharpen their operations. Growth Goals: Scaling to thousands of locations and achieving profitability while attracting strategic partners like DoorDash. Partnerships: Building strong relationships with technology providers and relying on referrals for expanding reach. Timestamps: 01:25 The Genesis of Curbit 02:27 Curbit's Evolution and Challenges 04:23 Curbit's Real-Time Capacity Management 07:45 Impact and Case Studies 10:08 Market Presence and Growth 15:34 Future Goals and Expansion 24:39 Call to Action and Contact Information Connect with Daniel: If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode subscribe now and help support the show: Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Daniel for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01 /episode/index/show/sabmgroup/id/38031660

#334: Helping Small Businesses Overcome Financial Challenges and Access Capital with Juan Dominguez, USMA ’89 08/21/2025

#334: Helping Small Businesses Overcome Financial Challenges and Access Capital with Juan Dominguez, USMA ’89 Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: Want to join us in San Francisco, CA on October 7th & 8th? Visit: ____ Juan Dominguez is the founder of Dominguez Advisory Group, specializing in business mediation and access to capital for small to midsize companies facing financial obstacles. Drawing on three decades of business experience, he has built a practice focused on business advocacy for those who have hit a bump in the road. After a successful corporate career, including leading a $1 billion company and managing a team of 600, he launched this consulting venture to fill a vital but underserved niche. His firm helps small business owners resolve creditor disputes and obtain financing when traditional avenues are closed. His approachable and transparent style, combined with a personal mission to give back, inform every client engagement. As a licensed mediator, he is dedicated to negotiating workable solutions, reducing business debt, and serving as a sounding board for owners at difficult crossroads. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Juan about: Dominguez Advisory Group’s mission: Advocating for small and midsize businesses during financial distress. The problem they're solving: Resolving creditor disputes, often when business owners are facing lawsuits or collections, and helping the “forgotten middle” owners access capital with challenging credit. Service functionality: No upfront fees. Business mediation to negotiate down debt by 30 to 70 percent, restructure payments, and free up working capital. Target market strategy: Supporting small business owners, especially those with credit scores between 525 and 650, who have limited financial options, and providing value through trusted referral networks like SABM and 10X Vets. Growth goals: Transitioning to a predominantly referral-based business model and continuing to expand reach within the veteran and academy grad communities. Timestamps: 00:55 The Challenge of Admitting Financial Struggles 01:37 Introduction to Dominguez Advisory Group 01:53 Business Mediation Services 03:20 Helping Businesses with Credit Issues 07:52 Success Stories and Case Studies 11:34 Future Goals and Vision Connect with Juan: If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode subscribe now and help support the show: Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Juan for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01 /episode/index/show/sabmgroup/id/37906810

#333: Revolutionizing Agriculture Through AI-Powered Farm Finance with Ajit Purandare, USMA ’95 08/13/2025

#333: Revolutionizing Agriculture Through AI-Powered Farm Finance with Ajit Purandare, USMA ’95 Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: Want to join us in San Francisco, CA on October 7th & 8th? Visit: ____ Ajit Purandare is the Chief Revenue Officer at Croptell, a FinTech company revolutionizing agricultural finance through artificial intelligence. He brings a unique perspective to the agricultural space, having grown up in farming communities on the eastern shore of Delaware in the heart of "chicken country". A West Point graduate, Ajit joined Croptell after consulting with founder Scott Sartor for two years. What started as a relationship built through duck hunting in the Mississippi Delta evolved into a powerful partnership aimed at disrupting the agricultural finance space. Coming from a family that immigrated from India, Ajit understands firsthand the critical importance of agriculture and the thin margins farmers operate on. Through data science and AI powered insights, Ajit is helping to transform how farmers access capital and manage their operations. His mission is to empower farmers to focus on what they do best while providing lenders with better tools to assess creditworthiness beyond traditional FICO scores. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Ajit about: Croptell's Mission: Revolutionizing crop finance through AI and disrupting the traditional agricultural finance space The Problem They're Solving: How only 18% of farmers actually do budgets and the challenges of relationship-based lending Platform Functionality: 5-8 minute onboarding process with AI-powered insights covering 3,000 major crop-producing counties Target Market Strategy: Focusing on 265,000 Gen Z and millennial farmers taking over family operations through succession planning Growth Goals: Raising capital for the next crop finance cycle and building partnerships with private equity and community banks Timestamps: 00:53 Introduction to Croptell 02:21 The Agricultural Finance Landscape 05:09 How Croptell's Platform Works 08:30 Goals and Future Plans for Croptell 13:23 Challenges and Support Needed 16:39 Personal Connection to Agriculture 17:57 Final Thoughts and Contact InformationConnect with Ajit: (202) 361-7674 If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode subscribe now and help support the show: Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Ajit for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01 /episode/index/show/sabmgroup/id/37801230

#332: He’s 26 and Already Raising His Second Real Estate Fund with Briar Bearss, USMA ‘22 08/03/2025

#332: He’s 26 and Already Raising His Second Real Estate Fund with Briar Bearss, USMA ‘22 Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: Want to join us in San Francisco, CA on October 7th & 8th? Visit: ____ Briar Bearss is the Founder and CEO of Bearss Residential, a real estate company that owns and operates subsidized housing for over 100 families and veterans across the Midwest. He is also an active duty armor officer and mission-driven entrepreneur focused on serving vulnerable communities. A West Point graduate, he built his military career leading scout platoons, with his unit earning recognition as the number one Bradley Scout platoon in the brigade. His entrepreneurial journey began while balancing active duty service, co-founding Bearss Residential with his twin brother and two childhood friends from Michigan. What started as a local investment strategy evolved into a powerful mission to provide quality housing for vulnerable families and veterans through government rental assistance programs. Through strategic real estate investing and strong public-private partnerships, Briar has successfully deployed Fund One, and is now launching Fund Two with goals of raising $3–4M to serve 300–400 families. His mission is to scale impact-driven real estate investing while maintaining the highest standards of military service and community commitment. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Briar about: Fund Two Launch: Scaling from Fund One's success to a $3-4M fund serving 300-400 families Military-Business Balance: How he manages active duty responsibilities while building a real estate empire, keeping military service as top priority Lessons Learned: Key insights on property evaluation, team communication, and building relationships with public housing agencies Team Culture: Working with his twin brother and childhood friends to create a fun, mission-driven work environment Future Vision: Long-term goals to influence housing policy while expanding veteran housing through VASH vouchers Timestamps: 00:29 Dedication and Achievements 00:58 Launching Fund Two 01:37 Background and Business Model 03:30 Fund One Performance and Strategy 07:19 Lessons Learned and Improvements 10:42 Balancing Military and Entrepreneurship 14:49 Keys to Success and Team Dynamics 22:20 Future Goals and Challenges Connect with Briar: If you found value in today’s episode, don’t keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you’re a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we’d love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show: Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Briar for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA ’01 /episode/index/show/sabmgroup/id/37649360

#331: Band of Brothers Legacy: A Journey from D-Day to Today with Chase Millsap, Brett Lea, and Alex Sabga-Brady 07/24/2025

#331: Band of Brothers Legacy: A Journey from D-Day to Today with Chase Millsap, Brett Lea, and Alex Sabga-Brady Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: Want to join us in San Francisco, CA on October 7th & 8th? Visit: ____ This week on the SABM Podcast, we’re joined by Chase Millsap (USNA ’05), Brett Lea, and Alex Sabga-Brady, the producers behind D-Day to Today: The Band of Brothers Legacy, a forthcoming documentary exploring the lasting impact of the HBO miniseries Band of Brothers on modern-day service members and military culture. Chase Millsap is a U.S. Naval Academy graduate, former Marine infantry officer, and Army National Guard Special Forces veteran. After over a decade of service, Chase transitioned into storytelling and documentary filmmaking. He helped launch We Are The Mighty and has spent more than 15 years producing authentic military content in Hollywood. This project brings together his dual passions: military service and meaningful storytelling. Brett Lea is a retired Army Lieutenant Colonel with 22 years of service. A former West Point history instructor and military public affairs officer, Brett led multiple staff rides in Normandy and served as the Army’s official liaison to Hollywood. His personal reverence for Dick Winters and Easy Company fuels his commitment to preserving the legacy of WWII heroes and inspiring today’s soldiers. Alex Sabga-Brady portrayed Corporal Frank Mellet in the original Band of Brothers series and has spent the last two decades as a creative director, production designer, and brand strategist. While originally cast as background support due to his prior cadet training, Alex’s dedication and performance earned him a named role. Today, he remains closely connected with his fellow castmates and is deeply committed to honoring Easy Company’s legacy. Together, they’re bringing this story full circle through reenactments, interviews, and original footage—connecting the heroes of WWII with today’s soldiers of the 101st Airborne and reigniting conversations about courage, leadership, and service. Show Notes: In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Chase, Brett, and Alex about: The Band of Brothers Legacy Project: How a group of veterans and cast members are preserving the legacy of Easy Company From Training to Jump: Reenacting WWII parachute jumps in Normandy with the original cast Impact on Today’s Military: Why Band of Brothers still resonates with the 101st Airborne Military-Civilian Storytelling: Blending authenticity, history, and cinematic power Bringing It Home: The team’s goal to premiere the documentary in Normandy in 2026 Timestamps: 01:10 Chase’s background and transition into storytelling 04:10 The jump that inspired the documentary 07:22 Alex’s perspective on portraying history and maintaining legacy 14:40 Brett’s journey from West Point to the Army’s Hollywood liaison 19:00 Why Band of Brothers still matters 24:16 Production progress and what’s left to do 31:45 How the 101st Airborne is carrying the legacy forward 36:50 The unexpected power of rediscovered footage and interviews 43:00 The impact of Band of Brothers on leadership across generations 49:13 How to support and get involved Connect with Chase: If you found value in today’s episode, don’t keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you’re a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we’d love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show: Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Chase, Alex, and Brett for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA ’01 /episode/index/show/sabmgroup/id/37533660

#330: Leadership, Legacy, and Launching the Total Force Plus Conference with Brian Kelly, CEO of MOAA 07/17/2025

#330: Leadership, Legacy, and Launching the Total Force Plus Conference with Brian Kelly, CEO of MOAA Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: Want to join us in San Francisco, CA on October 7th & 8th? Visit: ____ Brian Kelly is the President and CEO of the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA), a nonprofit organization focused on advocating for military personnel, veterans, and their families. He retired from the U.S. Air Force as a three-star general after more than 33 years of service, most recently serving as the Deputy Chief of Staff for Manpower, Personnel, and Services. A proud graduate of Notre Dame and the Air Command and Staff College (Class of ‘01), Brian now leads MOAA’s efforts to protect earned military benefits and support members through advocacy, education, and strategic initiatives like the Total Force Plus Conference. With decades of leadership experience, Brian is especially committed to improving the transition from military to civilian life, protecting quality-of-life benefits, and ensuring that military voices are represented in national conversations. As MOAA prepares to launch its inaugural Total Force Plus Conference, he’s bringing together leaders from the Department of Defense, the VA, and the private sector to address the full lifecycle of military service and create better outcomes for those who serve. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Brian about: Total Force Plus Conference Launch: A first of its kind event designed to support the full military lifecycle from recruitment to retirement. MOAA’s Mission & Legacy: Advocacy work that protects earned benefits for millions of military families and veterans. Navigating Career Transition: Brian shares insights from his personal transition from a 3 star general to civilian leadership. Supporting the Next Generation: How MOAA is connecting with younger service members to stay relevant and impactful. Charitable Impact: MOAA’s scholarship and crisis support foundation are making a difference for thousands of military families. Timestamps: 00:38 Brian’s Air Force journey and transition to MOAA 04:51 The origin and mission of MOAA 07:45 Launching the Total Force Plus Conference 12:16 Key personas the conference is designed to serve 15:38 Conference agenda and featured speakers 18:34 Storytelling for military service with AJ Bleyer 21:01 Brian’s personal career transition reflections 25:57 MOAA’s charitable efforts: scholarships & crisis support 29:45 Challenges connecting with the next generation 32:30 MOAA’s long-term vision and leadership goals Connect with Brian: Total Force Plus: MOAA.org: MOAA Charities: MOAA Foundation: MOAA Scholarship Fund: If you found value in today’s episode, don’t keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you’re a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we’d love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show: Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Brian for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA ’01 /episode/index/show/sabmgroup/id/37440090

#329: Unlocking the Power of Breathwork with Kevin Raney, USAFA ‘02 07/05/2025

#329: Unlocking the Power of Breathwork with Kevin Raney, USAFA ‘02 Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: Want to join us in San Francisco, CA on October 7th & 8th? Visit: ____ Kevin Rainey is a certified breathwork coach, former Air Force officer, and seasoned project manager with over 20 years of experience leading programs around the world. A graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy, he built his career in Information Technology and Communications, known for bringing camaraderie, community, and grit to every team he led. His journey took a powerful turn during a breathwork and cold plunge session that sparked deep personal transformation. He lost weight, reversed sleep apnea, and found a natural way to manage depression. That experience inspired him to launch a coaching practice dedicated to helping others, especially men and veterans, reconnect with their bodies and strengthen their emotional resilience. Through one-on-one coaching and group cohorts, Kevin teaches breathwork routines that support nervous system regulation, mental clarity, and long-term well-being. His mission is to teach 1 million men how to use breath to improve their lives, families, and communities. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Kevin about: Transformational Start: A powerful breathwork and cold plunge session helped Kevin release years of stored emotional trauma, sparking a complete personal transformation Breath as Self-Empowerment: Kevin teaches techniques that help people build confidence, emotional balance, and inner peace by tapping into their body’s natural rhythm. Coaching Approach: His sessions are practical and customized, focused on breathwork techniques that energize, calm, or balance, depending on client needs. Community-Focused Mission Kevin’s goal is to teach 1 million men how to build daily breathwork practices, creating stronger individuals, families, and communities. Timestamps: 00:52 Discovering Breathwork 03:22 The Power of Breathwork 09:19 Breathwork Techniques and Coaching 15:35 Goals and Challenges Connect with Kevin: https://www.kevinwraney.com/ If you found value in today’s episode, don’t keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you’re a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we’d love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show: Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Kevin for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA ’01 /episode/index/show/sabmgroup/id/37290645

#328: Transforming the Future of Property Valuation with AI with Richard Kenny, USAFA ‘09 07/05/2025

#328: Transforming the Future of Property Valuation with AI with Richard Kenny, USAFA ‘09 Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: Want to join us in San Francisco, CA on October 7th & 8th? Visit: ____ Richard Kenny is the founder of Falcon Capital Real Estate and Valuation Pro, bringing together decades of valuation expertise with a focus on innovation in commercial real estate. At Falcon Capital, he helps partners access institutional-grade deals by providing co-GP capital, underwriting support, and strategic insight on complex transactions. Valuation Pro, his AI-powered platform, delivers fast, accurate property valuations for investors, brokers, and assessors, helping streamline decision-making and reduce turnaround time. A U.S. Air Force Academy graduate and former Contracting Officer, Richard grew up in the appraisal world and has led valuation work across more than 35 states. His experience spans a wide range of asset types, from strip malls and solar farms to subsurface minerals and other complex properties. Now focused on scaling Valuation Pro, Richard brings a rare blend of field expertise and technology-forward thinking to the commercial real estate space. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Richard about: Accessible Real Estate Investing: Falcon Capital lowers entry barriers for real estate investors. Fast, AI Powered Valuations: Valuation pro delivers AI-powered reports in under an hour. Broad, Specialized Appraisal Experience: Appraisal work spans unique assets in 35+ states. Appraiser-Led Underwriting Insight: Appraiser insights lead to stronger investment decisions. Launch-Ready Tech Platform: Valuation Pro is gearing up for a public debut. Timestamps: 0:43 Richard’s Background and Journey into Real Estate. 02:11 Founding Falcon Capital 04:27 Introduction to Valuation Pro 06:50 Appraisal Industry Insights 11:41 Valuation Pro’s Functionality and Target Market 18:04 Future Plans and Goals Connect with Richard: Email: If you found value in today’s episode, don’t keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you’re a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we’d love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show: Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Richard Kenny for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA ’01 /episode/index/show/sabmgroup/id/37290535

#327: Unlocking Real Value in Small Business Acquisitions with Dave Lam, USAFA ‘11 06/30/2025

#327: Unlocking Real Value in Small Business Acquisitions with Dave Lam, USAFA ‘11 Dave Lam is a seasoned investor, veteran, and strategic operator focused on unlocking value in microcap and lower-middle market companies. A former U.S. Air Force contracting officer, he offers deep expertise on execution, strategy, and operational excellence. As a Principal at Phalanx Partners, he helps lead independent sponsorship and advisory efforts for growing companies across multiple sectors. He is also a Managing Principal at Oakwood Legacy Partners, a private holding company investing in alternative assets including real estate, cryptocurrency, and private debt. With a decade of experience managing complex vendor portfolios and leading operational strategy, Dave’s expertise spans procurement, underwriting, and portfolio management. His background includes work with the U.S. Air Force and Coast Guard, where he oversaw projects in medical services, construction, communications, and defense manufacturing. Dave holds an MS in Finance from Boston College and an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. Whether advising founders or evaluating new investments, he brings a rigorous, data-driven approach to growth, risk management, and long-term value creation. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Dave about: From Military to Main Street: How Dave’s background as an Air Force contracting officer led him to pursue small business acquisitions. The PHX Playbook: A value-driven model where founders sell majority ownership but stay on to scale with strategic support. Smart Acquisition Strategy: Why clean financials, low owner dependency, and operational upside are essential for a successful deal. Opportunity in the Lower Market: Dave targets $1–3M EBITDA businesses where hands-on improvements can drive major returns. The Power of Relationships: Trusted veteran and referral networks are key to finding deals and aligning the right people for growth. Timestamps: 00:41 Dave’s Background and Introduction 01:48 The Importance of Due Diligence 03:00 Introduction to Phalanx Partners 06:02 Opportunities in Business Acquisitions 14:19 Pitfalls in Business Acquisitions 18:27 Secrets to Finding Deal Flow 20:22 Building Your Professional Network 21:15 Strategic Referral Partners 23:20 Investment and Value Addition 27:28 Optimizing Small Businesses 33:15 Future Goals and Aspirations 38:00 Acquisitions and Exit Circle 39:50 Connecting and Contact Information Connect with Dave: Email: dave.lam@phalanxpart.com If you found value in today’s episode, don’t keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you’re a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we’d love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show: Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Dave for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA ’01 /episode/index/show/sabmgroup/id/37213215

#326: Helping Entrepreneurs Break Into Franchising with Josh Emison, USNA ‘14 06/07/2025

#326: Helping Entrepreneurs Break Into Franchising with Josh Emison, USNA ‘14 Joshua 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 about: Franchise Education: A clear process to help new owners understand the realities of franchising. Matching System: A detailed quiz and vetting method to pair candidates with the right franchises. Tippy Toes Model: A lean, mobile business chosen for its strong demand and trusted leadership. Startup vs. Franchise: Franchising offers structure and support that startups often lack. Owner Mindset: Success requires patience, realistic expectations, and long-term commitment. Timestamps: 00:59 Josh's Background and Career Journey 02:29 Introduction to Tracer Franchising 03:06 The Franchising Process Explained 05:55 Selecting the Right Franchise 09:57 Funding Your Franchise 11:59 Negotiating Franchise Terms 14:51 Choosing Tippy Toes Dance Franchise 17:56 Comparing Franchisee Experience with Startups 18:36 The Challenges of Starting a Business from Scratch 19:25 The Benefits of Franchising 20:55 Sales Success Stories 24:24 Adapting the Business Model 26:35 Future Goals and Vision 30:33 Common Challenges in Franchising Connect with Joshua: Email: If you found value in today’s episode, don’t keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you’re a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we’d love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show: Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Joshua for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA ’01 /episode/index/show/sabmgroup/id/36900275

#325: Inspiring Change Through Filmmaking with Zachary Guerra, USNA ‘00 05/31/2025

#325: Inspiring Change Through Filmmaking with Zachary Guerra, USNA ‘00 Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: Want to join us in San Antonio, TX on June 11th & 12th? Visit: ____ 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 his belief in storytelling as a transformative tool. Zachary's approach to filmmaking is characterized by a relentless pursuit of compelling narratives and a commitment to excellence. Each project he undertakes is infused with a unique blend of strategic insight and creative vision, making him a distinctive voice in contemporary cinema. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Zachary about: Post-Navy Pivot: After flying jets, Zachary turned to filmmaking to follow his creative drive. Turning Points: He lost equipment and faced shutdowns but stayed focused on real, human stories. Canon Shot: His new documentary that captures the croquet rivalry between Navy and St. John’s, spotlighting cultural gaps. The film reveals how two schools in the same town rarely engage with each other. Real-World Impact: How his documentary helped spark new partnerships, with midshipmen now taking classes at St. John’s. Timestamps: 00:31 Zach's Journey into Filmmaking 01:55 Early Wins and Challenges 03:36 The Concept of 'Dance for Your Dinner' 09:52 The Making of 'Canon Shot' 16:12 Surprising Discoveries and Reflections 22:35 Current Status and Support Needed 30:01 Conclusion and Contact Information Connect with Zachary: If you found value in today’s episode, don’t keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you’re a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we’d love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show: Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Zachary for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA ’01 /episode/index/show/sabmgroup/id/36799330

#324: From Free Help to General Partner: How a Young Grad Earned His Seat at the Table with Rob Pekarek, USNA ‘21 05/24/2025

#324: From Free Help to General Partner: How a Young Grad Earned His Seat at the Table with Rob Pekarek, USNA ‘21 Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: Want to join us in San Antonio, TX on June 11th & 12th? Visit: ____ 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 in 2024 and led investor outreach, raising over $500,000. He continues to manage investor communications and is passionate about building long-term value through data, real estate, and veteran collaboration. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Rob about: Real Estate at Full Speed: While on active duty, Rob became a general partner in two multifamily deals totaling over 50 units. Helping First Pays Off: He earned his first GP role by offering free support and adding value to the team. Lead Gen That Works: Rob uses content and clear qualifiers to attract the right investors. His Three Pillars: He focuses on fitness, wealth building, and creating purpose through community. Mindset for Growth: Rob believes in taking action, learning through failure, and building real relationships. Timestamps: 01:02 Guest Background and Early Career 03:05 Real Estate Ventures and Side Hustles 10:25 Lead Generation Strategies 20:45 Three Pillars of a Successful Life Connect with Rob: If you found value in today’s episode, don’t keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you’re a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we’d love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show: Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Rob for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA ’01 /episode/index/show/sabmgroup/id/36698900

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