Épisodes

  • Lanitra Howell - Reaffirm Vibes
    Feb 11 2025

    🎙️ Immerse yourself in the soothing world of fragrance as the Veteran's Growing America Podcast hosts Donnell Johns and R.L. Simmons sit down with an Army Veteran and entrepreneur, the visionary behind Reaffirm Vibes. This unique business specializes in creating fragrance products like candles and perfumes, each designed to enhance well-being and bring positive vibes into everyday life. Tune in to hear how military discipline and commitment to service have translated into crafting products that uplift and inspire.

    🌟 Episode Highlights:

    • From Army to Aromas: Discover the journey from serving in the military to launching a business focused on fragrances, and how the values learned in service influence business practices.
    • The Essence of Reaffirm Vibes: Explore the mission and inspiration behind Reaffirm Vibes, and how the products are crafted to foster positivity and relaxation for customers.
    • Entrepreneurial Challenges: Delve into the challenges faced while establishing a niche business in the competitive world of fragrances and how these obstacles were transformed into opportunities for growth.
    • Impact of Fragrance on Well-being: Learn about the psychological and emotional benefits of scents, and why Reaffirm Vibes focuses on creating fragrances that do more than just smell good—they rejuvenate the spirit.
    • Future Aspirations: Hear about the future goals for Reaffirm Vibes, including new product lines and initiatives to expand the reach of positive vibes through fragrance.

    🔊 Whether you’re interested in entrepreneurship, the therapeutic power of fragrance, or stories of veterans who continue to serve their communities in unique ways, this episode offers a refreshing perspective on how passion and purpose can create a successful business.

    🔗 Links:

    • Veteran's Growing America: https://veteransgrowingamerica.com/
    • Learn more about Reaffirm Vibes and their products: https://reaffirmvibes.com/
    • Connect with Donnell Johns on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnelljohns
    • Follow Coach R.L. Simmons on all platforms: @coachrlsimmons

    👉 Be sure to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes that delve into the entrepreneurial journeys of veterans and the innovative ways they contribute to enhancing our daily lives. Drop a comment below and share how fragrances have impacted your mood and environment!

    #VeteransGrowingAmerica #ReaffirmVibes #FragranceEntrepreneur #VeteranOwnedBusiness #PositiveVibes #WellbeingThroughScents #EntrepreneurialJourney

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    29 min
  • Ryan Hunt- 10th Mountain Recruiting
    Feb 10 2025

    🎙️ On this episode of the Veteran's Growing America Podcast, hosts Donnell Johns and R.L. Simmons welcome Ryan Hunt, an Army veteran and the entrepreneurial force behind 10th Mountain LLC and 10th Mountain Recruiting. Inspired by the storied 10th Mountain Division, Ryan has channeled his military experiences into founding and leading successful ventures that focus on delivering top-tier business and recruiting services. Tune in as Ryan shares his journey from the Army to entrepreneurship, and how his military values continue to influence his approach to business and leadership.

    🌟 Episode Highlights:

    • Military Roots: Explore Ryan's time in the Army and how his experiences have shaped his business philosophy and leadership style.
    • Founding 10th Mountain LLC: Delve into the origins and mission of 10th Mountain LLC, a company dedicated to excellence and innovation in the service sector.
    • Launch of 10th Mountain Recruiting: Learn about Ryan's expansion into the recruiting industry, aiming to connect talented veterans with opportunities that match their skills and aspirations.
    • Leadership Lessons: Hear Ryan discuss the key lessons from his military service that have been instrumental in navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship.
    • Impact and Vision: Discover the broader impact of Ryan's work on the veteran community and his future goals for his businesses.

    🔊 Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a veteran seeking new opportunities, or simply interested in stories of successful post-military careers, this episode offers a compelling look at how discipline and determination can lead to significant achievements in the business world.

    🔗 Links:

    • Veteran's Growing America: https://veteransgrowingamerica.com/
    • Learn more about 10th Mountain LLC and 10th Mountain Recruiting: https://tenthmountainrecruiting.com/
    • Connect with Donnell Johns on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnelljohns
    • Follow Coach R.L. Simmons on all platforms: @coachrlsimmons

    👉 Be sure to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes that spotlight the entrepreneurial spirit of veterans who are making a mark in the business world. Join the conversation below and share your thoughts on the transition from military service to business leadership!

    #VeteransGrowingAmerica #RyanHunt #10thMountainLLC #VeteranEntrepreneur #BusinessLeadership #MilitaryTransition #VeteranRecruiting

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    33 min
  • Dr. Keith Castille- C2H Business and Leadership Development
    Feb 6 2025

    🎙️ Dive into a captivating episode of the Veteran's Growing America Podcast where hosts Donnell Johns chat with Dr. Keith Castille, USAF Veteran and visionary founder of C2H, a pioneering business and leadership consulting firm. With a rich three-decade background in the United States Air Force and human resources, Dr. Castille brings a wealth of knowledge in transformational leadership and organizational culture to the forefront. Join us as he shares how C2H is redefining leadership development by integrating emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and authentic communication to mold leaders who lead with both their head and heart.

    🌟 Episode Highlights:

    • Military Foundations: Explore Dr. Castille's extensive career in the Air Force, where he honed his leadership and human resource skills across critical programs for a massive workforce.
    • C2H's Mission: Delve into how C2H transforms conventional leadership development, focusing on the core elements that empower leaders to truly inspire and drive their teams.
    • Leadership Philosophy: Understand Dr. Castille’s unique approach to leadership that combines rigorous skill development with a deep focus on emotional intelligence and authenticity.
    • Global Impact: Learn about Dr. Castille’s influence on over 250 organizations worldwide, reaching over 220,000 senior executives and managers through his transformative programs and workshops.
    • Personal Drive and Vision: Hear about the values that motivate Dr. Castille daily—teamwork, grit, integrity, excellence, and innovation—and how these shape his professional engagements and personal commitments.

    🔊 Whether you're a leader, a professional in human resources, or someone interested in the art of effective leadership, this episode offers invaluable insights into creating impactful leadership through a blend of technical skill and emotional wisdom.

    🔗 Links:

    • Veteran's Growing America: https://veteransgrowingamerica.com/
    • Discover more about C2H and Dr. Keith Castille: https://c2htransform.com/
    • Connect with Donnell Johns on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnelljohns
    • Follow Coach R.L. Simmons on all platforms: @coachrlsimmons

    👉 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes that delve into the transformative journeys of veterans who are making a significant impact in various industries. Drop a comment below to share how leadership has influenced your professional or personal life!

    #VeteransGrowingAmerica #DrKeithCastille #LeadershipDevelopment #USAFVeteran #EmotionalIntelligence #AuthenticLeadership #CorporateTraining #ExecutiveCoaching

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    33 min
  • Dan Clare - DAV Chief of Communication & Outreach
    Jan 20 2025

    🎙️ Dive into a compelling episode of the Veteran's Growing America Podcast as hosts Donnell Johns and R.L. Simmons engage with Dan Clare, Chief Communications & Outreach Officer at DAV (Disabled American Veterans). Dan, a seasoned Marine Corps and Air Force veteran, sheds light on DAV's crucial programs designed to empower disabled veterans and support veteran entrepreneurs. Learn about the impactful benefits of DAV membership and how the organization fosters a supportive community for nearly one million members.

    🌟 Episode Highlights:

    • Support for Disabled Veterans: Explore the specialized programs DAV offers to assist disabled veterans, enhancing their quality of life and ensuring access to all the benefits they deserve.
    • Entrepreneurial Support: Delve into initiatives that uplift veteran entrepreneurs, providing them with the tools and resources needed to succeed in the business world.
    • Importance of DAV Membership: Understand the significant advantages of being a DAV member, including advocacy, support, and community, and why it's vital for veterans to join.
    • Dan's Personal Journey: Hear about Dan's own experiences transitioning from military service to a leadership role at DAV, and how his background has shaped his commitment to veteran advocacy.
    • DAV’s Impact: Gain insights into how DAV’s outreach and communications strategies under Dan's leadership have fostered greater awareness and engagement within the veteran community.

    🔊 Whether you're a veteran, an advocate, or simply interested in learning more about supporting our nation's heroes, this episode offers an in-depth look at the crucial work being done at DAV to improve veterans' lives.

    🔗 Links:

    • Veteran's Growing America: https://veteransgrowingamerica.com/
    • Learn more about DAV and how to become a member: https://www.dav.org/dan-clare/
    • Connect with Donnell Johns on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnelljohns
    • Follow Coach R.L. Simmons on all platforms: @coachrlsimmons

    👉 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes that spotlight the incredible efforts and programs dedicated to veterans. We encourage you to comment below and share how organizations like DAV have impacted your life or the lives of veterans you know!

    #VeteransGrowingAmerica #DanClare #DAV #DisabledVeterans #VeteranEntrepreneurs #VeteranSupport #MilitaryAdvocacy #CommunityEngagement












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    33 min
  • Dr. Xavier (Dr. X) Bruce - Uplift Your Damn Self
    Jan 16 2025

    🎙️ In this enlightening episode of the Veteran's Growing America Podcast, hosts Donnell Johns and R.L. Simmons are joined by Dr. X, a retired Air Force LTC, educator, and transformative leader. With over two decades of experience in the military, higher education, and professional development, Dr. X has dedicated his career to empowering individuals and organizations to simplify challenges and thrive. Tune in as Dr. X shares his journey from the Air Force to his impactful work as Assistant Vice President for Veterans Programs at UMGC and founder of Uplift Energy Coaching LLC.

    🌟 Episode Highlights:

    • Career Journey: Explore Dr. X’s extensive leadership experience in the Air Force and how it shaped his approach to education and professional coaching.
    • Self-Leadership Development: Discover the transformative self-leadership program Dr. X created for veterans, designed to help them manage stress and transition smoothly into civilian life.
    • Uplift Energy Coaching LLC: Delve into the goals and methods of Dr. X’s coaching practice, focusing on resilience-building and effective leadership to drive personal and organizational success.
    • Personal Insights: Gain insights into Dr. X’s philosophies on simplifying complexity and fostering meaningful connections that inspire growth and success.

    🔊 Whether you are a veteran, a leader in your field, or someone interested in personal development, this episode offers valuable lessons on overcoming challenges and achieving goals with purpose and clarity.

    🔗 Links:

    • Veteran's Growing America: https://veteransgrowingamerica.com/
    • Connect with Dr. X and explore Uplift Energy Coaching LLC: https://www.upliftnrgcoaching.com/
    • Connect with Donnell Johns on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnelljohns
    • Follow Coach R.L. Simmons on all platforms: @coachrlsimmons

    👉 Be sure to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes that bring you closer to leaders and innovators who are making a difference. Join the conversation below and share how leadership and personal development have influenced your journey!

    #VeteransGrowingAmerica #DrX #Leadership #VeteranSupport #PersonalDevelopment #MilitaryTransition #Empowerment #Coaching

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    21 min
  • Robyn Grable - Talents Ascend
    Jan 15 2025

    🎙️ Join hosts Donnell Johns and R.L. Simmons on this inspiring episode of the Veteran's Growing America Podcast as they welcome Robyn Grable, founder and CEO of Talents ASCEND. A US Navy veteran turned talent acquisition expert, Robyn shares her journey from facing career barriers post-military service to revolutionizing how veterans and other underrepresented groups connect with meaningful employment. Discover how her initiatives, including Veterans ASCEND and Talents ASCEND, are changing the landscape of career development and employer-employee matching based on skills, not just resumes.

    🌟 Episode Highlights:

    • Transition Challenges: Hear Robyn's personal experience transitioning from military to civilian life and the challenges she faced translating her military skills into recognized civilian qualifications.
    • Founding Veterans ASCEND: Learn about the inception of Veterans ASCEND and its mission to facilitate better career matches for veterans by focusing on skills alignment rather than traditional job-seeking methods.
    • Expansion to Talents ASCEND: Explore the evolution of her initiative into Talents ASCEND and the formation of The ASCEND Collective, aiming to broaden the impact to include military spouses, people with diverse-abilities, and justice-involved candidates.
    • Empowering Strategies: Discover the innovative strategies Talents ASCEND employs to dismantle employment barriers and ensure that talent and opportunity meet in a marketplace that values skills and diversity.
    • Future Goals: Robyn discusses her vision for the future of Talents ASCEND and how she plans to continue expanding her reach and impact across various communities.

    🔊 Whether you’re a veteran looking to navigate the civilian job market, an employer seeking to diversify your workforce, or someone passionate about social equity, this episode offers valuable insights into transforming challenges into impactful solutions.

    🔗 Links:

    • Veteran's Growing America: https://veteransgrowingamerica.com/
    • Learn more about Talents ASCEND and how you can get involved: https://theascendcollective.org/
    • Connect with Donnell Johns on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnelljohns
    • Follow Coach R.L. Simmons on all platforms: @coachrlsimmons

    👉 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes that highlight the stories of veterans making a difference in the workforce and beyond. Drop a comment below to share how innovative job matching has influenced your career path or hiring practices!

    #VeteransGrowingAmerica #RobynGrable #TalentsASCEND #VeteransEmployment #CareerDevelopment #MilitaryTransition #InclusiveHiring

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    21 min
  • Mark Reilly- The Washington Tattoo
    Nov 5 2024

    🎙️ On this episode of the Veteran's Growing America Podcast, hosts Donnell Johns and R.L. Simmons have the pleasure of speaking with J. "Mark" Reilly, President and CEO of The Washington Tattoo, and an influential figure in the world of military music and international cultural events. With over 20 years of experience, Mark has developed a reputation for building world-class teams and producing flawless performances at prestigious venues around the globe. Tune in as Mark shares insights from his extensive career, his role in enhancing global cultural understanding through music, and his commitment to supporting veterans and first responders through his work with The Washington Tattoo.

    🌟 Episode Highlights:

    • Global Leadership: Discover Mark's journey through the realms of military music, where he has connected and collaborated with some of the most prestigious bands and cultural institutions worldwide.
    • Iconic Performances: Explore Mark’s experiences producing events at landmark venues like the White House, Royal Albert Hall, and the Vatican, and what it takes to execute such high-profile shows.
    • Educational Contributions: Learn about Mark's role as an educator and speaker at leading music conservatories and universities across the globe, spreading knowledge and fostering talent in the field of music.
    • The Washington Tattoo: Delve into the mission and vision behind The Washington Tattoo, understanding how this organization uses music to bridge cultural gaps and support community heroes.
    • Advocacy for Veterans: Hear how Mark’s initiatives are tailored to not only entertain but also support the welfare of veterans and first responders, aligning musical excellence with philanthropy.

    🔊 Whether you’re a music aficionado, interested in cultural diplomacy, or inspired by veteran support initiatives, this episode offers a unique look into how artistic expression can have a profound impact on communities and international relations.

    🔗 Links:

    • Veteran's Growing America: https://veteransgrowingamerica.com/
    • Dive deeper into The Washington Tattoo: https://www.thewashingtontattoo.com/
    • Connect with Donnell Johns on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnelljohns
    • Follow Coach R.L. Simmons on all platforms: @coachrlsimmons

    👉 Be sure to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes that explore the intersections of creativity, culture, and service. We’d love to hear your thoughts on how music and cultural events can impact global understanding and community support in the comments below!

    #VeteransGrowingAmerica #MarkReilly #WashingtonTattoo #MilitaryMusic #CulturalDiplomacy #VeteranSupport #MusicEducation #GlobalPerformances












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    20 min
  • Jesse Sieff - Harmonizing Creativity and Service at Sieff Studios
    Oct 29 2024

    🎙️ In this episode of the Veteran's Growing America Podcast, hosts Donnell Johns and R.L. Simmons are thrilled to welcome Jesse Sieff, owner and founder of Sieff Studios. A U.S. Marine Corps veteran with a rich background in music and digital media, Jesse has masterfully blended his artistic talents and military discipline into a successful career in video production. Dive into Jesse's journey from the U.S. Marine Drum & Bugle Corps to founding Sieff Studios, where he and his team provide top-notch digital assets for businesses in the DMV area and beyond.

    🌟 Episode Highlights:

    • Musical Beginnings to Marine Excellence: Explore Jesse's transition from professional musician to a leading role in the Marine Corps' public affairs office, where he significantly enhanced their digital media operations.
    • Honors and Education: Learn about the accolades Jesse received for his impact in the Marines, and his educational pursuits that furthered his expertise in business and digital media.
    • Founding Sieff Studios: Discover the inspiration behind Sieff Studios and how Jesse’s vision for creative excellence and client-focused service was realized.
    • Consultative Business Model: Delve into the unique business approach at Sieff Studios, which prioritizes client goals and crafts customized, scalable solutions for video production and digital content.
    • Community Impact: Hear how Jesse's commitment to service guides his interactions and projects, fostering strong relationships and delivering exceptional value to his clients.

    🔊 Whether you're interested in the synergy of creativity and leadership, or seeking insights into building a client-centered creative business, this episode offers a compelling look at how one veteran is making a significant impact in the creative industry.

    🔗 Links:

    • Veteran's Growing America: https://veteransgrowingamerica.com/
    • Explore the creative world of Sieff Studios: https://www.sieffstudios.com/
    • Connect with Donnell Johns on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnelljohns
    • Follow Coach R.L. Simmons on all platforms: @coachrlsimmons

    👉 Be sure to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes that showcase the diverse talents and entrepreneurial spirit of veterans. Join the conversation below and share your thoughts on how creativity and service can combine to create a thriving business!

    #VeteransGrowingAmerica #JesseSieff #SieffStudios #MarineCorpsVeteran #DigitalMedia #CreativeEntrepreneurship #ClientFocused #BusinessInnovation

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    31 min