Episode 21 Category Education and Training Paul Volpe

Summary Childhood and early influences Paul Volpe grew up in a working-class Italian immigrant family in Cleveland, Ohio and later Appleton, Wisconsin. His father and foster father, both military veterans, were influential role models who instilled in him the values of hard work, discipline, and service. As a shy, introverted youth, Paul transformed into an extroverted, athletic young man through his involvement in sports and community activities. Military journey and leadership development @ 7:09 Paul joined the Army Reserves while in college, initially serving as an armor crewman. He excelled in the military, becoming a drill sergeant, master fitness trainer, and recruiter. Paul's military experience taught him the value of adaptability, teamwork, and servant leadership. He held leadership roles like Sergeant Major and was selected to attend the prestigious Sergeant Major's Academy, which further honed his skills. Transition to entrepreneurship @ 23:36 As Paul neared retirement from the Army, he began exploring entrepreneurial opportunities that would allow him to continue serving the military community. He leveraged his experience in the Army's PACE program, which connected employers with military talent, to start his own company, Forward March Inc. (FMI), in 2013. FMI's mission is to help employers build effective military hiring and retention programs. Building and evolving the business @ 29:09 In the early years, Paul partnered with two others to launch FMI, navigating challenges like defining roles, ownership, and funding. The company initially had multiple service lines but later streamlined to focus on talent solutions, elite leadership training, and custom Humvee sales. FMI has weathered storms like the COVID-19 pandemic by adapting its offerings and operations. Paul emphasizes the importance of maintaining a clear mission, empowering his team, and continuously evolving the business. Advice and reflections @ 1:29:40 Paul shares advice for other veteran entrepreneurs, including the value of internship/work-study programs, building an advisory board, and maintaining a positive, servant-leadership mindset even in difficult times. He reflects on the importance of work-life balance, leveraging his military experience, and finding fulfillment in making a difference for the veteran community and FMI's clients.