The Veterans Growing America Podcast

Hosted by Donnell Johns & Coach R.L. Simmons

Business EntrepreneurshipInterviews guests

Website RSS feed

Episodes

Latest episode

Apr 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

Welcome to "The Veterans Growing America Podcast," hosted by the insightful duo, Donnell Johns and R.L. Simmons. This engaging podcast is dedicated to showcasing the entrepreneurial journeys of veterans, active service members, and their dependents who have bravely ventured into the world of business. In collaboration with Veterans Growing America (VGA), an organization committed to fostering the growth of veteran-owned businesses, our hosts bring to life the stories of those who have served their country and are now serving their communities through entrepreneurship. Each episode invites a new guest to share not only the unique proposition of their business but also their personal narrative as a veteran or a family member of a veteran.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

April 27, 202631 min

Jacobo Laya Jr. | Jac and Mac Photography LLC | Veterans Growing America

In this powerful episode of the Veterans Growing America Podcast , hosts Coach RL Simmons and Donnell Johns sit down with Jacobo “Jacob” Laya Jr. , Navy veteran, entrepreneur, and the co-founder of Jac and Mac Photography LLC . Jacob shares his inspiring journey from 20 years of service in the U.S. Navy to building a family-centered photography business rooted in storytelling, legacy, and purpose. Born in Philadelphia, raised in Venezuela, and inspired by both his father’s naval service and his uncle’s photography career, Jacob reveals how his military experiences and passion for capturing life’s moments shaped his entrepreneurial path. From photographing Gulf War missions and ship formations from helicopters to preserving weddings, family milestones, and generational memories, Jacob explains why photography is far more than pictures—it’s legacy. This episode dives deep into military transition, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, multiple streams of income, and the importance of starting your business while still in uniform . Jacob also shares how losing jobs after retirement reinforced the need for resilience, backup plans, and building businesses that protect your family’s future. In this episode, you’ll hear about: Jacob’s 20-year Navy career as an Operations Specialist The origin story behind Jac and Mac Photography Why photography is about capturing legacy, not just images The importance of family, marriage, and shared entrepreneurship Lessons on transition from military to civilian life Why multiple streams of income are essential How Rich Dad Poor Dad changed Jacob’s financial mindset The role Veterans Growing America played in his business journey Whether you’re a veteran, creative entrepreneur, photographer, or someone building a family business, this conversation is filled with wisdom, heart, and practical lessons on building something meaningful. Connect with Jacobo “Jacob” Laya Jr.: Instagram: Jac and Mac Photography Facebook: Jac and Mac Photography LinkedIn: Jacobo Laya Jr. Support Veterans Growing America: Visit veteransgrowingamerica.com to discover veteran-owned businesses, join the directory, and support entrepreneurs creating impact in their communities. Work with Coach RL Simmons: Visit yourmoneygoat.com to simplify your finances, business strategy, and legacy planning. Like, comment, and subscribe for more stories from veterans who continue to serve through business, creativity, and leadership. #VeteransGrowingAmerica #JacoboLaya #JackAndMacPhotography #NavyVeteran #VeteranEntrepreneur #PhotographyBusiness #MilitaryTransition #CoachRLSimmons #DonnellJohns #LegacyThroughPhotography #FinancialLiteracy #Entrepreneurship

April 20, 202632 min

Alfranda “Al” Durr | ALD & Associates | Veterans Growing America

In this episode of the Veterans Growing America Podcast , hosts Coach RL Simmons and Donnell Johns sit down with Alfranda “Al” Durr , Army veteran, former lieutenant colonel, and CEO of ALD & Associates . Al shares his remarkable 28-year military journey, his transition into entrepreneurship, and how he now helps organizations strengthen talent, teams, and leadership. Al talks about serving in both the National Guard and civilian leadership roles, building expertise in recruiting, retention, EEO, sexual assault prevention, suicide prevention, and officer accessions. He explains how those experiences shaped his entrepreneurial mindset and led him to launch ALD & Associates in 2019, with a mission centered on making people and teams better. This conversation dives into the realities of transitioning from military service into business ownership, the importance of discipline, adaptability, and accountability, and why entrepreneurship is about more than profit. Al also shares lessons on resilience, strategic partnerships, community impact, and the value of creating spaces where others can win. In this episode, you’ll hear about: Al’s 28-year Army and Army National Guard career How military leadership shaped his business approach The story behind ALD & Associates Why perfection can hold entrepreneurs back The importance of building a strong village and support system How Veterans Growing America creates opportunities for veteran entrepreneurs Al’s powerful perspective on resilience, service, and giving back If you are a veteran, entrepreneur, leader, or someone navigating transition, this episode is packed with wisdom, encouragement, and practical insight. Connect with Alfranda “Al” Durr: LinkedIn: Alfranda Durr Instagram: @ald_associates Facebook: Alfranda Durr Email: info@aldandassociates.com Support Veterans Growing America: Visit veteransgrowingamerica.com to connect with veteran and military spouse entrepreneurs, explore the directory, and support businesses making an impact. Work with Coach RL Simmons: Visit yourmoneygoat.com to simplify your finances, mindset, business, and legacy planning. Like, comment, and subscribe for more powerful conversations with veterans building businesses, communities, and legacy after service. #VeteransGrowingAmerica #AlfrandaDurr #ALDandAssociates #ArmyVeteran #VeteranEntrepreneur #LeadershipDevelopment #MilitaryTransition #CoachRLSimmons #DonnellJohns #VeteranBusiness #Entrepreneurship #Resilience #TeamBuilding

April 20, 202637 min

Hector & Gia Paz | Gia's Bakery | Veterans Growing America

In this episode of the Veterans Growing America Podcast, Coach R.L. Simmons and Donnell Johns sit down with Hector and Gia Paz , the owners of Gia’s Bakery . Hector is a U.S. Army veteran (30+ years of service, retired Colonel) , and Gia is a military spouse originally from Honduras with a deep entrepreneurial drive and a gift for baking that turned into a fast-growing business. They share a real behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to build something from scratch—especially when you’re learning as you go, operating out of a home kitchen, and still pushing forward even after multiple failures. Gia opens up about learning sourdough the hard way (failed starters, trial-and-error, and patience), and how the first big “yes” from the community became the moment she realized: this wasn’t just a hobby—this was a business. Hector breaks down how military values like determination, discipline, loyalty, and resilience translate directly into entrepreneurship—and why Veterans Growing America became the right community for them to grow in. Episode highlights: Hector’s 30+ year Army career and how he and Gia met overseas Turning repeated failures into consistency and confidence The real sourdough process (26–30 hours per loaf) and why quality takes time Top sellers at Gia’s Bakery: artisan sourdough, flavored loaves, cinnamon rolls, cookies, bagels, and more Building a business from a home kitchen while working through licensing and growth steps Why community matters: the VGA difference and what support really looks like Key lessons for new entrepreneurs: start small, keep moving, don’t rush the “run,” and use fear as fuel Where to find Gia’s Bakery: In-person: Veterans Growing America (VGA) — Saturdays, 12 PM–6 PM (and expanding) Facebook: Gia’s Bakery Instagram: Gia’s Bakery Website: Available via their social pages for menu + pre-orders Connect with the hosts: Coach R.L. Simmons (Your Money GOAT) Free financial audit + simplified money strategy: yourmoneygoat.com Veterans Growing America: Website + vendor directory: veteransgrowingamerica.com Visit the VGA Marketplace (Woodbridge, VA – Stonebridge at Potomac Town Center) If you’re a veteran, spouse, or aspiring entrepreneur trying to turn a skill into a business, this episode is your reminder: you don’t have to start perfect—you just have to keep going. Like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who needs motivation rooted in real experience—and if you’re in the DMV, go taste why Gia’s Bakery is becoming a weekly destination.

April 17, 202627 min

Avis Savage | ASIC Strategies for Life | Veterans Growing America

In this episode of the Veterans Growing America Podcast, Coach R.L. Simmons and Donnell Johns sit down with Army veteran and financial educator Avis Savage , Founder & CEO of ASIC Strategies for Life . Avis shares her path from serving eight years on active duty to building a mission around helping individuals understand money, eliminate confusion, and prepare for retirement with clarity. She breaks down why so many “successful” and high-income professionals still don’t truly know where their money is going—and why financial confidence starts with awareness, not intimidation. This conversation is practical and straight to the point: tracking cash flow, understanding compounding, leveraging assets, and building a strategy that protects wealth while positioning you to grow it. Avis also explains why insurance can be more than a legacy tool and how certain strategies can create tax-advantaged opportunities when structured correctly. If you’ve ever felt behind, overwhelmed, or unsure about the next financial move, this episode gives you a starting point—and a direction. Topics covered: How military discipline and organization translate into business success Why most people don’t actually know their cash flow (even high earners) Compounding, leveraging, and dual-purpose strategies explained simply Why “not all debt is bad” and how to think in assets vs. liabilities The power of free consultations and asking the right questions early Building retirement readiness and protecting wealth the smart way How Veterans Growing America supports veteran entrepreneurs through community and opportunity Connect with Avis Savage (ASIC Strategies for Life): Instagram: @asicstrategiesforlife Facebook: ASIC Strategies for Life Website: www.asicstrategies4life.com Connect with the hosts: Coach R.L. Simmons (YourMoneyGOAT) Simplifying finances from A to Z: budgeting, protection, strategy, and leverage Website: yourmoneygoat.com (sign up for a free financial audit) Veterans Growing America (VGA) Website: veteransgrowingamerica.com Find veteran-owned businesses in the directory Visit the VGA Marketplace: 14901 Potomac Town Place, Suite 110, Woodbridge, VA (Stonebridge at Potomac Town Center) Like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who needs financial clarity and a real plan

April 13, 202633 min

Joel Griffin | Riphean Group | Veterans Growing America

In this episode, Coach R.L. Simmons and Donnell Johns sit down with Marine Corps veteran and entrepreneur Joel Griffin, Founder & CEO of the Riphean Group . Joel takes us through his journey from joining the Marines straight out of high school (including serving with the Silent Drill Platoon at Marine Barracks Washington, D.C.) to intelligence work in Quantico, to becoming a government contractor—and eventually taking the all-or-nothing leap into entrepreneurship. This conversation goes beyond “business motivation.” Joel breaks down the real grind behind entrepreneurship, why freedom comes with a cost, and how relationships—more than capital—open doors. He also shares how Riphean Group invests in early-stage, mission-driven companies that support the warfighter, and how he became an “accidental restaurateur” with multiple hospitality ventures across Virginia. Most importantly, Joel speaks candidly about purpose and impact: honoring his daughter’s legacy through Gwyneth’s Gift Foundation (free CPR training, AED deployments, and scholarships), and his work supporting the Virginia Department of Veterans Services—funding that directly strengthens veteran programs across the Commonwealth. If you’re a veteran, founder, or future entrepreneur trying to figure out timing, risk, discipline, and legacy—this episode is for you. Key topics in this episode: Marine Corps foundation: Silent Drill Platoon, intel work, and leadership lessons “All or nothing” entrepreneurship: the real risk/reward conversation The baby analogy: why there’s never a “perfect time” to start Riphean Group : investing seed capital + intellectual capital into warfighter-focused companies Hospitality growth: Rebellion (Fredericksburg/Leesburg), Castilla’s, Skybar, The Port, and more Giving back at scale: CPR training, AEDs, scholarships, and veteran support across Virginia Why entrepreneurship can restore purpose for veterans Connect with Joel Griffin: LinkedIn: Joel Griffin Email: jgriffin@ripheangroup.com Connect with the hosts: Coach R.L. Simmons (YourMoneyGOAT) yourmoneygoat.com “Change your mind. Change your money. Change your life.” Veterans Growing America (VGA) veteransgrowingamerica.com Follow on social: @VeteransGrowingAmerica Visit the marketplace in Woodbridge, VA—and… shop, baby. If you got value from this episode, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE it with a veteran or entrepreneur who needs to hear this message.

April 10, 202647 min

Caleb Green | Legacy Shield Rep | Veterans Growing America Podcast

In this episode of the Veterans Growing America Podcast, Coach R.L. Simmons and Donnell Johns sit down with retired U.S. Army Master Sergeant Caleb Green. Caleb shares a powerful, wide-ranging story: 30 years of active-duty service, 14 years as a Signal Soldier, and then a rare pivot into elite ceremonial performance with the United States Army Band (Pershing’s Own), where his voice carried him from field life to some of America’s most historic stages. You’ll hear how discipline, humility, consistency, and faith shaped his journey—along with what meaningful impact looks like after retirement when your gift becomes your lane. Caleb also speaks on leadership, service, raising a family with strong values, and what it really means to build “the ark” before the rain shows up. This episode is part masterclass, part motivation, and all heart—built for veterans, entrepreneurs, and anyone trying to stay the course when the work isn’t “paying off” yet. What you’ll hear in this episode: Caleb’s 30-year Army journey: Signal to Ceremonial + National stages How military communication skills translate into entertainment and leadership Real lessons on discipline, foundation, humility, and consistency Faith, fruit, and building for the future (before the storm hits) Caleb’s work in the DC market and beyond, including major events and audiences Veteran community, mentorship, and why VGA matters Connect with Caleb Green: Instagram: @NoahsArk151 Voices of Service: @VoicesofService Linktree: Voices of Service + Caleb Green (links shared in episode) Connect with the hosts: Coach R.L. Simmons: yourmoneygoat.com Veterans Growing America: veteransgrowingamerica.com Follow VGA on social: @VeteransGrowingAmerica If this episode encouraged you, do three things: Like the video Subscribe for more veteran entrepreneur stories Share it with someone who needs discipline and direction right now And if you’re in the DMV—stop by the store in Woodbridge, VA and… shop, baby.

April 8, 202643 min

Jonathan Thompson | Alpha Six Battalion | Veterans Growing America

In this episode of the Veterans Growing America Podcast , hosts Coach R.L. Simmons and Donnell Johns sit down with Jonathan Thompson , a veteran of the United States Marine Corps and the founder of Alpha Six Battalion . Jonathan shares his journey from serving overseas to navigating life after the military—and why so many veterans struggle not because of a lack of effort, but because they lose the systems, structure, and accountability they once had. Alpha Six Battalion was created as “apparel with purpose,” using clothing as a gateway to something deeper: information, resources, and community for the 6% who serve . This conversation dives into: Life after the Marine Corps and the reality of transition Why entrepreneurship can feel isolating for veterans How Alpha Six Battalion connects vets to real-world resources Missed VA benefits and opportunities most veterans don’t hear about Leadership lessons from the military that apply directly to business Building accountability through structure, systems, and mindset Why “coming back to the pack” matters after service Jonathan also explains the meaning behind the Alpha Wolf character—designed to tell real veteran stories through humor, culture, and lived experience. If you’re a veteran, entrepreneur, or someone thinking about betting on yourself, this episode delivers insight, honesty, and perspective you don’t want to miss. Connect with Jonathan & Alpha Six Battalion Website (Resources): https://alphaVIBattalion.com Store: https://alpha6battalion.store Instagram & TikTok: @alphaVIBattalion Connect with the Hosts Coach R.L. Simmons: https://yourmoneygoat.com Veterans Growing America: https://veteransgrowingamerica.com Visit the Veterans Growing America Marketplace in Woodbridge, VA Support veteran-owned businesses | Build community | Shop with purpose Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with a veteran who needs to hear it. Veterans Growing America Podcast Service. Ownership. Community.

April 7, 202633 min

Alex Sebby | Words of Veterans | Veterans Growing America

In this episode of the Veterans Growing America Podcast, Coach R.L. Simmons and Donnell Johns sit down with Alex K. Sebby, a Marine Corps veteran (1999–2003) and the founder of Words of Veterans—an online platform helping veterans preserve their military story in a tangible, family-ready legacy format. Alex shares a rare side of service you don’t hear often: his MOS as a combat illustrator, his post-service path through digital media and journalism, and the long, honest grind of entrepreneurship—multiple attempts, hard lessons, and learning how to “fail forward” without quitting on the mission. Most importantly, Alex breaks down how Words of Veterans works and why it matters: veterans can answer guided questions, add photos, and create a hardcover book that documents their service—something their children and loved ones can hold onto for generations. He also shares a major milestone: Words of Veterans received a grant from the Virginia Department of Veterans Services, allowing eligible veterans in Virginia to create their book at no cost. Topics covered: Marine Corps service, stop-loss, and what it means to carry your story forward The difference between running a business vs. starting a business “Failing forward,” acceptable loss, and entrepreneurship as a long game Why feedback is everything: how VGA helped Alex improve his platform Turning service history into a hardcover legacy book Veteran community, consistency, and building something that outlives you How to create your Words of Veterans book: Go to wordsofveterans.com Sign up + verify your email Answer guided questions (short responses) + upload photos Build your book without the intimidation of “writing a book” Connect with Alex / Words of Veterans: Website: wordsofveterans.com Contact + socials are available directly on the site You can also connect through the Veterans Growing America directory Connect with the hosts: Coach R.L. Simmons: yourmoneygoat.com Veterans Growing America: veteransgrowingamerica.com (Directory + events + marketplace) If you’re looking for a meaningful way to preserve your service, build legacy for your family, or learn what veteran entrepreneurship really looks like behind the scenes—this episode is for you. Like, Subscribe, and Share And as always… Shop, baby.

April 6, 202631 min

Evie Waite | ELW Initiative | Veterans Growing America

In this powerful and heartfelt episode of the Veterans Growing America Podcast , hosts Coach RL Simmons and Donnell Johns sit down with Evie Waite , Air Force veteran, law enforcement professional, and founder of ELW Initiative (Empower. Love. Win.) . Evie shares her raw journey from military service and civilian law enforcement into entrepreneurship — revealing how stress, mindset, and lived experience led her to create a mission-driven brand rooted in self-empowerment, love of self and community, and winning from the inside out . This episode dives deep into: Transitioning from military & law enforcement into entrepreneurship Mental health, mindset shifts, and identity after service Betting on yourself when entrepreneurship “wasn’t the plan” Why how you treat people is the real business strategy Scarcity vs. growth mindset in work, life, and leadership Building community-centered businesses that feel like family Evie also shares her experience as a member of Veterans Growing America , explaining why culture, energy, and community matter just as much as capital. Whether you’re a veteran, entrepreneur, creative, or someone searching for purpose beyond the paycheck — this conversation will resonate. Connect with Evie & ELW Initiative Instagram: @elwinitiative Facebook: ELW Initiative Founder: Evie Wait Programs: 30-Day Reset + Empowerment Initiatives Connect with the Hosts & VGA Coach RL Simmons: https://yourmoneygoat.com Veterans Growing America: https://veteransgrowingamerica.com VGA Directory & Veteran Marketplace: Shop veteran-owned businesses nationwide or visit the physical marketplace in Woodbridge, VA (Open 7 days a week, 12–6 PM) Quote Worth Remembering “People may forget what you say, but they will never forget how you made them feel.” Subscribe, listen, and share this episode with someone who needs permission to bet on themselves. Veterans Growing America Podcast — where service meets ownership, and community fuels growth.

April 3, 202629 min

TK Pryor | Master Wealth Builders LLC. | Veterans Growing America

In this episode of the Veterans Growing America Podcast , hosts Coach RL Simmons and Donnell Johns welcome TK Pryor , U.S. Army Veteran and Founder of Master Wealth Builders LLC . TK brings over two decades of IT and military communications experience to his mission of teaching financial literacy to working families, veterans, and entrepreneurs. From honor guard drills to annuities and asset protection, TK shares his powerful journey from active duty to building a business focused on financial education, generational wealth, and trust-based legacy planning . You’ll hear how his late mother’s financial foresight became the blueprint for his company—and how he's now helping others master their money mindset.