The Journey to Entrepreneurship: A Female Veteran's Story

Send us Fan MailCindy Connor, an Air Force veteran and entrepreneur, shares her journey of transitioning from military service to entrepreneurship. She discusses her reasons for joining the military, her nursing career, and the impact of 9/11 on her military service. Cindy also talks about the challenges she faced as a female officer and how her military experiences have contributed to her success as an entrepreneur. She shares the pivotal moment that inspired her to start her own business and the challenges she encountered along the way. Cindy emphasizes the importance of networking, seeking resources, and adapting to overcome obstacles in business. In this conversation, Cindee Conner shares her experiences as a female veteran and entrepreneur. She emphasizes the importance of not assuming gender roles in the military and encourages support for female veterans. Cindee provides advice for fellow female veterans aspiring to start their own businesses, highlighting the need for self-reflection and exploration of interests. She also mentions the value of podcasts and networking organizations as resources. The key takeaways include getting to know oneself, taking care of oneself, and pursuing passions in the post-military life. Cindee shares her contact information for those interested in connecting and supporting her business.ABOUT CINDEE: HOW IT STARTED: Registered Nurse: Being a registered nurse was my first professional calling.  My career expanded over 30 years in multiple healthcare disciplines with experience in clinical and leadership roles. Throughout my tenure, I have spent much of my time collaborating with executive leadership and diverse multi-disciplinary teams in both normal and high-stress situations. I also have a proven track record and have garnered multiple awards. My passion for caring for the sick led me to my next professional calling…HOW IT WENT: Air Force Veteran: Serving my country.  As a combat veteran with over 20 years of experience, I provided lifesaving care to soldiers both stateside and overseas.  I led and executed multiple complex missions while dealing with high-pressure situations.  I served honorably and retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in 2014 after 22+ years of service.  Serving in the military has been one of my most rewarding life accomplishments and the experiences I gained gave me the courage to pursue my next professional goal and passion… WHAT I'M DOING NOW: Entrepreneurship: Owning my own business! As a catering and food hobbyist, I’ve always wanted to own my own catering company.  So, I decided to embark on my newest adventure, opening a charcuterie store named Graze Craze in North Boca Raton, Florida. Graze Craze is the national leader in customizable charcuterie boards.  Our mission is to create memorable experiences through beautifully curated culinary delights using farm-fresh products and house-made ingredients.I'm also a spouse to another Air Force Veteran turned entrepreneur in the environmental industry, a mom to an amazing college student daughter studying at Auburn University and a full-time caretaker for a parent with Alzheimer's.LINKS:https://www.facebook.com/groups/grazecrazenorthbocalinkedin.com/in/cynthiaaconnerSupport the showSUBSCRIBE and SHARE!Women Serve Too Merch (10% of Profits Benefits Female Veterans): https://www.etsy.com/shop/WomenServeToo