Episode 11 Public Service & Government - Haley Dunkin

Key TakeawaysHaley transitioned from Army cook to successful business owner, overcoming challenges through discipline and adaptabilityShe built and sold a thriving indoor playground business (Nido) focused on supporting mothers and childrenNow working with Southern Comfort Tiny Homes to create veteran support communities and healing spacesEmphasizes importance of self-care, mentorship, and community for veteran entrepreneursTopicsHaley's Background and Military ServiceGrew up in upstate New York, joined Army in 2012 as a cook (92G)Deployed to Afghanistan shortly after marrying fellow soldierMedically discharged in 2015 due to fish allergy and deployment impactsUsed GI Bill for health/wellness and nutrition science educationTransition to EntrepreneurshipStarted Nido, an indoor playground business, to fill need for baby/toddler spacesImplemented Montessori-style approach and created supportive community for mothersGrew quickly, considered franchising before health issues prompted saleLeveraged SBA resources, Pathway Lending support, and industry-specific Facebook groupsCurrent Work with Southern Comfort Tiny HomesRelationship coordinator role, focusing on veteran support initiativesPartnering with Warrior Homestead to create transitional living communities for veteransAims to provide 6-12 month stays with comprehensive support services (financial, mental health, career guidance)Advice for Veteran EntrepreneursLocation is crucial for brick-and-mortar businessesDouble expected startup costs to account for unexpected expensesLeverage community connections and word-of-mouth marketingSeek mentorship and join industry-specific groups for support/advicePrioritize self-care and healing; recommends Big Red Barn Retreat programNext StepsHaley to begin creating content/social media for Southern Comfort Tiny HomesJarvis to follow up about potential collaboration on nonprofit tiny home project in AustinHaley offered to provide guidance on creating meditation trails and retreat spaces