Episode 2 - Category- Business Services- Dawn Naum, Pet Food Supply

Interview Dawn Naum, founder of Koda's Place, for the Battlefield to Business podcast to discuss her entrepreneurial journey as a veteran.Key TakeawaysDawn overcame significant personal challenges (poverty, military medical discharge, car accident, incarceration) to launch Koda's Place, a pet accessory business with a mission to give backThe business, inspired by Dawn's service dog Koda, donates 2% of sales to animal shelters and aims to sponsor service dogs for veteransKey challenges include limited capital and marketing, but community support has been strongDawn emphasizes the importance of taking action on business ideas rather than waiting for perfect conditionsTopicsDawn's Background and ResilienceGrew up in poverty, moving frequently between statesJoined Marine Corps but medically discharged after 2 yearsExperienced severe car accident, incarceration, and personal strugglesUsed these experiences to fuel personal growth and eventually start Koda's PlaceKoda's Place Business OverviewPet accessory business selling leashes, collars, treats, and merchandiseFounded July 2023 in Andrews, North CarolinaMission to donate 2% of sales to local animal sheltersGoal to sponsor service dogs for veterans by 2025 (est. $8,000/dog)Currently operates through local gift shop booth, events, and developing e-commerceBusiness Challenges and StrategiesLimited capital: Bootstrapping with bartending tips, careful budgetingMarketing: Primarily word-of-mouth and business cards; working to improve social mediaProduct development: Experimenting with treat shelf-life, no preservatives usedLogistics: Manually fulfilling orders, researching food safety requirementsTime management: Balancing day jobs with business developmentCommunity Support and GrowthStrong local support from friends and strangersDeveloping website (Kodas.place) for e-commerceLong-term plans include own retail space, grooming services, and training classesMental Health and Resilience AdviceEmphasizes importance of human connection during dark timesRecommends Veterans Crisis Line as a resourceAdvocates for taking small steps (e.g. shower, make a call) to move forwardStresses the impermanence of difficult emotions/situationsNext StepsLaunch website (Kodas.place) to enable e-commerceResearch and comply with food safety requirements for pet treatsImprove social media marketing consistencyPrepare for upcoming Oktoberfest and Welcome Home Veterans eventsContinue developing product line and exploring future expansion opportunities (e.g. grooming services)