In this episode of the Leadership Loading Podcast, host Jason McClaren sits down with Steve White, President of PuroClean, a U.S. Army veteran, and franchising expert. Steve shares his inspiring journey from serving in mechanized infantry to building a thriving career in franchising, with nearly 39 years of experience, including his leadership role at PuroClean. Steve discusses the transition from military service to the corporate world, the unique qualities military veterans bring to leadership roles, and the impact of organizations like VetFran.org in connecting veterans to entrepreneurial opportunities. He also highlights the importance of leading from the front, fostering teamwork, and modeling servant leadership. Explore the resources mentioned in this episode: Learn about PuroClean: www.puroclean.com Franchising opportunities for veterans: www.purovet.com Veteran franchising resources: www.vetfran.org Tune in to learn how veterans can excel in business, explore franchising opportunities, and find purpose in serving local communities through industries like property restoration.

In this episode of the Leadership Loading Podcast, host Jason McClaren welcomes Jason Holden, Chief Operating Officer at Joni and Friends and retired Navy Chief Master Chief. They discuss Jason’s inspiring journey from military service to leading impactful nonprofit initiatives. Jason shares insights into his 20-year Navy career, where he managed global construction projects and honed leadership skills that seamlessly transitioned into his current role at Joni and Friends—a ministry dedicated to serving individuals with disabilities. They dive into the organization's vital work, including evacuations during the Ukraine crisis, and its unique warrior programs supporting veterans and their families. Tune in to hear Jason’s powerful advice for leaders: embracing continuous learning, adjusting to new challenges, and leveraging experiences to outpace competition. Whether you’re a military professional, nonprofit leader, or aspiring executive, this episode offers practical wisdom for leading with purpose and compassion.

In this episode of the Leadership Loading Podcast, host Jason McClaren welcomes Mark Fava, retired Navy Captain, author, and seasoned aviation lawyer. Mark shares his journey from earning an ROTC scholarship to commanding a P-3 squadron and how his military experiences laid the foundation for his career in aviation law and corporate leadership. Mark dives into his book, Lessons from the Admiral: Naval Wisdom and Sea Stories for Leaders, revealing timeless leadership lessons from his time in the Navy. Whether you're a veteran, a business leader, or someone striving to hone their leadership skills, this episode is packed with actionable advice on team building, decision-making, and leading with integrity. Don't miss Mark’s powerful insights on listening to senior mentors, taking care of your team, and why investing in yourself is the best decision you can make. Mark's Book: https://amzn.to/4gzjXst

In this episode of the Leadership Loading Podcast, host Jason McClaren speaks with Kevin Damoa, a military veteran and entrepreneur making waves in the logistics and technology industries. Kevin shares his journey from joining the Army after 9/11 to becoming an innovator with his company, Glide, which is transforming the road-to-rail cargo process with cutting-edge autonomous technology. Topics Covered: Kevin’s military journey: Serving in both the Army and Air Force, and his transition into civilian life. The founding of Glide: Solving real-world logistics challenges with autonomous, environmentally friendly road-to-rail solutions. The importance of lean methodology and Six Sigma in optimizing operations. Insights on leadership: The value of servant leadership and leading with integrity. Challenges and rewards of starting a tech-focused logistics company. 📌 Key Takeaways: Military discipline and adaptability translate directly to entrepreneurial success. Lean processes and innovation drive operational efficiency and environmental sustainability. Leadership is about serving your team, making thoughtful decisions, and fostering trust. 🎙️ Connect with Kevin Damoa: Glide website: www.gliderail.com Email Kevin directly: kevin@glidetech.us 🎧 Subscribe to Leadership Loading: Weekly episodes featuring inspiring leaders, veterans, and innovators from around the globe. Topics include leadership, entrepreneurship, and actionable tips for career growth. Kevin’s story is a testament to the power of grit, innovation, and leadership, proving that veterans have the skills and mindset to lead in any field. Tune in for insights on entrepreneurship, logistics, and servant leadership. #LeadershipLoading #VeteranOwned #Entrepreneurship #LeanManagement #ServantLeadership #LogisticsInnovation

In this episode of the Leadership Loading Podcast, Jason McClaren chats with Robert Lomonaco, a retired Air Force captain and logistics expert with a diverse career in military service and civilian industries. Robert shares his journey from ROTC to leading large-scale logistics operations and his transition to a thriving career in the private sector, including roles at Zipcar and Verizon. Topics Covered: Robert’s military background as a logistics readiness officer, managing supply chains, warehousing, and transportation across the globe. Transitioning from military to civilian careers: lessons learned and leveraging military experience in the corporate world. Implementing lean principles and Kaizen practices to drive organizational efficiency. The importance of leadership presence: engaging with teams and solving problems by being on the ground. How logistics parallels in the military and civilian sectors can build a seamless career path. 📌 Key Takeaways: The military is a great training ground for skills transferable to many industries. Leadership is about being present, connecting with your team, and driving change from within. Lean processes and continuous improvement are essential for logistics and business success. 🎙️ Connect with Robert Lomonaco: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roblomonaco/ 🎧 Subscribe to Leadership Loading Don’t miss weekly insights from inspiring leaders and veterans who are making an impact in their fields. Stay tuned for tips on leadership, career transitions, and operational excellence. Robert’s journey exemplifies how a career in the military can lead to success in civilian industries through resilience, adaptability, and a passion for improvement. Tune in for his inspiring story! #LeadershipLoading #AirForce #Logistics #LeanManagement #Kaizen #Leadership

In this episode of the Leadership Loading Podcast, Jason McClaren interviews Kaj Larsen, a former Navy SEAL, successful entrepreneur, and financial services innovator. Kaj shares his journey from being a water polo athlete and Naval Academy graduate to serving as a Navy SEAL officer and eventually transitioning into the private sector. Topics Covered: - Kaj’s path to the SEAL teams, including his experience at BUD/S during 9/11 - How military service shaped his leadership philosophy and personal growth - The importance of financial education and wealth-building for military members - The Valor Initiative at Seibert Financial and its mission to support veterans, first responders, and military families in building financial security - Leadership lessons from special operations and their application in the private sector 📌 Key Takeaways: - Lead from the front: Never ask someone to do something you wouldn’t do yourself. - Start investing early: Utilize military-specific benefits and opportunities to grow wealth. - Find purpose and mission post-military: Transitioning service members can thrive by combining passion with financial planning. 📘 Connect with Kaj Larsen and Seibert Financial: - Visit the Valor Initiative at https://www.siebert.com/programs/siebert-valor - Explore resources for military members, veterans, and first responders. 🎙️ Stay Connected with Leadership Loading: - Follow the podcast for more leadership insights and practical advice. - Subscribe for episodes featuring veterans, entrepreneurs, and changemakers. Join Kaj as he dives deep into leadership, financial growth, and mission-driven success! #LeadershipLoading #KajLarsen #NavySEAL #FinancialPlanning #Veterans #Leadership #ValorInitiative

In this episode of the Leadership Loading Podcast, Jason McClaren speaks with Jay Wiley, a Navy veteran and the leader behind two impactful organizations: Confidential Recovery and the Veterans Navigation Center. Jay shares his candid journey through the Navy, struggles with perfectionism and stress, and how his experiences shaped his mission to help fellow veterans achieve sobriety and navigate life's challenges. Topics Covered: Jay’s career in the Navy, from ROTC to commanding a guided missile destroyer Struggles with stress, perfectionism, and alcohol, and how they impacted his career The importance of asking for help and transitioning to a life of service for veterans The missions of Confidential Recovery and the Veterans Navigation Center How to build trust, provide holistic support, and foster community among veterans 📌 Key Takeaways: Leadership requires calm under pressure and prioritizing your people over admin tasks The dangers of the military drinking culture and the value of seeking help Why veterans often struggle to access available resources and how peer support can make a difference 📘 Connect with Jay Wiley: Veterans Navigation Center - https://veteransnavigationcenter.org/ 🎙️ Stay Connected with Leadership Loading: Follow the podcast for more inspiring conversations with leaders and changemakers. Subscribe to explore leadership topics, personal development, and professional growth. Don’t miss Jay’s insightful leadership tips and his powerful story of resilience and service! #LeadershipLoading #JayWiley #Veterans #Leadership #Sobriety #VeteranSupport #Navy

In this episode of the Leadership Loading Podcast, Jason McClaren sits down with Tom Aiello, founder of March Marketing and Operation Good Boy, to discuss entrepreneurship, leadership, and supporting the military and veteran community. Tom shares his journey from a decorated Army officer to building businesses that make a meaningful impact. Topics Covered: Tom’s military career and transition to civilian life Founding March Marketing and serving "Generation V" (Veterans) How Operation Good Boy is revolutionizing the pet industry with premium products and giving back to military working dog charities The importance of pivoting in business and staying mission-focused Insights into effective board leadership and servant leadership principles 📌 Key Takeaways: Leadership lessons from the military that translate into business success The role of strategic thinking in entrepreneurship and nonprofit management How to create brands that connect authentically with niche audiences 📘 Connect with Tom Aiello: March Marketing: www.marchcorp.com Operation Good Boy: www.operationgoodboy.com 🎙️ Stay Connected with Leadership Loading: Follow the podcast for more inspiring conversations with leaders and entrepreneurs. Subscribe and join the community to enhance your leadership journey. Don’t miss this engaging conversation filled with actionable advice and inspiring stories! #LeadershipLoading #TomAiello #MarchMarketing #OperationGoodBoy #Entrepreneurship #VeteransInBusiness #ServantLeadership