Episode 20 Category Agriculture & Natural Resources Frank Manteau

Meeting Purpose To interview Frank Manteau, a Marine Corps veteran and entrepreneur, about his life experiences and business journey with Mil Treats. Key Takeaways Frank overcame a challenging upbringing to join the Marines, which provided structure and purpose. After leaving the military, Frank struggled to find direction but eventually founded Mil Treats, creating edible chocolate crayons and other military-themed products. Frank's entrepreneurial journey has been driven by resilience, adaptability, and a desire to educate others about military culture. Key success factors include embracing failure, maintaining passion, and focusing on creating a positive legacy. Topics Early Life and Military Service Grew up in small-town Flushing, Ohio with limited opportunities. Joined Marines directly after high school despite having a full art school scholarship. Served 7.5 years before medical discharge due to back injury. Military provided structure, purpose, and transferable skills. Transition to Civilian Life Initially struggled to find direction after leaving military Worked various jobs while raising two children as a single father Moved family to California for a fresh start. Gradually rediscovered passion for creativity through woodworking. Founding of Mil Treats Inspired by social media jokes about Marines eating crayons Created world's first edible, colorable chocolate crayons in 2017 Expanded product line to include military-themed coffee, salt/pepper shakers Focus on educating civilians about military culture through products Business Challenges and Growth Overcame initial regulatory hurdles ($10k in violations) Secured $20k grant from Warrior Rising for business development Currently facing supply chain issues due to global chocolate shortage Exploring new product ideas like "MilitaryLabs" storytelling game Entrepreneurial Mindset Emphasizes importance of passion and willingness to work for free Views setbacks as opportunities for growth and problem-solving Focuses on creating a positive legacy for his children and grandchildren Advocates for empathy and understanding different perspectives Next Steps Explore new manufacturing options to address chocolate supply issues Launch planned new products like dog tag chocolates and "Military Labs" game Increase participation in live events to connect directly with customers Consider developing speaking/coaching career to share entrepreneurial insights