Veteran Business Community Podcast

✈️ Ready for Take-off!S03E39 | Paul Brackley – Jet Flight Simulators: Creating a business that runs without you to build an asset and passive income.Paul Brackley joined the RAAF at just 17, serving for six years before moving into the Melbourne Fire Brigade and eventually building and owning businesses throughout his working career.Now semi-retired, Paul is involved in Jet Flight Simulators, which has expanded from Melbourne into Adelaide and Brisbane. In this episode, Paul shares how the business gives people the opportunity to experience flying for themselves—whether for entertainment or as the first step towards a career as a pilot.Paul also discusses building a business that can operate without relying on its owner every day, creating a valuable asset and a source of passive income. A great listen for veterans, aspiring entrepreneurs and anyone interested in aviation or building a more sustainable business.🌐 Learn more: 👉 https://jetflightsimulatoradelaide.com.au/🌐 Join the VBC Community: 👉 https://veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #VBCPodcast #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranBusiness #Aviation #FlightSimulator #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #PassiveIncome #RAAF #PilotCareer

🔥 Built for the Fireground!S03E38 | Mike Taylor - Fair Air Fire Masks. Classic business conundrums - see problem, fix it. How a practical observation led the the development of a world class solution.Mike Taylor is an Australian Army Reserve veteran, former Infantry officer and the inventor of the Fair Air fire mask—a reusable respirator designed to provide greater comfort and protection in demanding, smoke-filled environments.In this episode, Mike shares the practical observation that inspired Fair Air Masks, the problems he identified with existing respiratory protection and how he set about creating a better solution. Today, Fair Air masks are used by nearly 1,000 brigades across Australia, as well as users in New Zealand, Canada, Brunei, the United States, South Africa and Afghanistan.Mike also discusses the persistence required to turn an idea into a world-class product, and how the masks are now helping not only firefighters but also farmers, builders, tradespeople and others working in dusty or hazardous environments.A fascinating conversation about innovation, problem-solving and building a practical solution that protects people when it matters most.🌐 Learn more:👉 https://www.fairairmasks.com/🌐 Join the VBC Community:👉 https://veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #VBCPodcast #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranBusiness #FairAirMasks #FirefighterSafety #RespiratoryProtection #AustralianInnovation #BushfireSafety #ArmyVeteran #StillServing

New Pod DropS03E37 | Zian Meredith and Chris Phillis - MarchOut. Plenty of support getting you into the military - but what happens when you get out?? Why we need MarchOut to bridge the gap between two worldsChris and Zian have each transitioned from military service in different ways, but they share a common mission today: ensuring veterans don't have to navigate life after Defence alone. Through MarchOut, they're helping bridge one of the biggest gaps in the veteran journey by connecting transitioning service members with the support, networks, and opportunities they need to succeed beyond the uniform.In this episode, Chris and Zian discuss why Defence invests so much in preparing people to serve, yet many veterans still find transitioning out to be one of the hardest missions they'll face. They share lessons from their own military careers and transitions, why asking for help is a strength, and the importance of building a community that supports veterans long after they leave service. Zian also explains why veterans need to back themselves more in business, while Chris reflects on the military mindset of never stepping outside the wire without the right preparation, equipment, and team. If you're preparing to transition, have already left Defence, or want to support those making the move into civilian life, this is an important conversation you won't want to miss.🌐 Learn more about MarchOut:https://marchout.com.au/🌐 Join the VBC Community:https://veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #VBCPodcast #VeteranBusinessCommunity #MarchOut #ADFTransition #VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #Leadership #Veterans #Business #CareerTransition #Community #StillServing

New Pod Drop!S03E36 | Karl Schwantes - Serial entrepreneur - artilleryman - master of customer experience. Listen to Karl's journey from Xennox Diamonds to Reputable to The Curated Circle. Karl Schwantes has built a career around understanding what customers really value and helping businesses stand out in increasingly competitive markets. A former artilleryman, Karl transitioned from military service into entrepreneurship, building and scaling multiple successful ventures including Xennox Diamonds, Reputable, and The Curated Circle. Along the way, he developed a reputation for delivering exceptional customer experiences and helping business owners turn trust, reputation, and relationships into sustainable growth.In this episode, Karl shares his journey from the Army to business ownership, the lessons learned through both successes and setbacks, and why customer experience remains one of the most powerful competitive advantages available to any business. We discuss the importance of reputation in the digital age, how businesses can leverage reviews and social proof to attract ideal clients, and why authentic relationships continue to outperform traditional marketing tactics. Karl also explains the mission behind Reputable and The Curated Circle, and how helping others succeed has become a core part of his own business philosophy.🌐 Learn more:• Xennox Diamonds: https://www.xennoxdiamonds.com.au/ • Reputable: https://reputable.global/• The Curated Circle: https://thecuratedcircle.com/🌐 Join the VBC Community:https://veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #VBCPodcast #VeteranBusinessCommunity #Entrepreneurship #CustomerExperience #Leadership #BusinessGrowth #Marketing #ReputationManagement #SmallBusiness #VeteranOwnedBusiness #KarlSchwantes #Reputable #TheCuratedCircle

Fresh Drop!S03E35 | Michelle Creevey - Purpose Procurement. Tendering and RFQ's - it's always a big effort - so get the basics right to empower your success.Michelle Creevey is the Founder and CEO of Purpose Procurement and a procurement leader with nearly two decades of experience across defence, infrastructure, advanced manufacturing, and technology. In this episode, Michelle shares practical insights into tenders, RFQs, supplier relationships, and why so many businesses make the mistake of rushing submissions without fully understanding what the customer is actually asking for.Drawing on her experience at Boeing Defence Australia and now through Purpose Procurement, Michelle explains how businesses can improve their chances of success by getting the fundamentals right, building strong relationships, and creating value beyond simply submitting a bid. A must-listen for any business looking to win more work and navigate procurement with greater confidence.🌐 Learn more:👉 purposeprocurement.com.au🌐 Join the VBC Community:👉 veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #VBCPodcast #VeteranBusinessCommunity #Procurement #Tendering #RFQ #BusinessGrowth #SupplyChain #DefenceIndustry #SovereignCapability #Leadership

New Pod Drop! S03E34 | James Moody - Shire Pool Care. The power of businesses that actually 'do things' - don't underestimate how successful practical businesses can be.James Moody served in the Australian Army from 2010 to 2024, spending time with 6RAR, the School of Infantry, and 2RAR (Amphibious), where he was promoted to Sergeant in 2020. Following operational service in Afghanistan and deployments across the Indo-Pacific region, James made the difficult decision to leave Defence, prioritising his health, family, and a desire to build something of his own. What followed was a journey of uncertainty, self-discovery, and ultimately the creation of Shire Pool Care.In this episode, James shares the realities of transitioning from military service, why he deliberately chose a practical trade-based business instead of a defence-adjacent career, and how military planning, systems, and discipline have helped him build a growing business from the ground up. He discusses the importance of identifying genuine customer needs, embracing hard work, being willing to start again from the bottom, and why veterans should never underestimate the opportunities available in service-based businesses. This is a valuable conversation about family, resilience, entrepreneurship, and the power of simply saying yes and finding a solution.🌐 Learn more:👉 shirepoolcare.com 🌐 Join the VBC Community:👉 veteranbc.com/join-our-community #VBC #VBCPodcast #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranOwnedBusiness #Entrepreneurship #BusinessOwnership #Transition #Leadership #SmallBusiness #TradesBusiness #ServiceBusiness #ShirePoolCare

S03E33 | VetCon26 - Veteran Business Conference and Awards Night - Why you need to be thereRebecca Plant is a Performance and Accountability Partner, co-author of the international bestselling book Lead-the-Ship, founder of The Business League, and the MC for VetCon26. In this episode, Rebecca joins Pete to unpack everything attendees can expect from VetCon26 and why the event has quickly become one of the most anticipated gatherings on the veteran business calendar.Together, they discuss the purpose behind VetCon26, the calibre of speakers, the networking opportunities, the Veteran Business Awards, and why bringing veterans, business owners, leaders, and supporters into the same room creates opportunities that simply can't be replicated online. Rebecca shares her perspective on what makes events like VetCon so powerful, the value of building genuine relationships, and why investing time in your personal and professional network can be one of the best business decisions you make. If you're considering attending VetCon26, this episode provides an insider's look at what's in store and exactly why you need to be there.🎟️ Get your VetCon26 tickets:👉 veteranbc.com/vetcon26🌐 Join the VBC Community:👉 veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VetCon26 #VBC #VBCPodcast #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranBusiness #VeteranOwnedBusiness #Leadership #Networking #BusinessGrowth #Community #VeteranBusinessAwards #Entrepreneurship

Fresh Drop!S03E32 | Dr Alexis Badger - With Me With You - life as an Army Doctor and why veteran medicine is so important now more than everDr Alexis Badger is a Specialist General Practitioner and former Australian Army Medical Officer with more than 12 years of experience supporting serving members and veterans across both Defence and civilian healthcare settings. In this episode, Alexis shares her journey through military medicine, the realities of caring for veterans, and why honest, direct communication is critical in a healthcare system that can often feel confusing and overwhelming. She speaks openly about helping veterans better understand the DVA system, access the support they’re entitled to, and regain confidence in managing their health and wellbeing.The conversation also explores Alexis’ broader mission of service through With You Kenya, the international charity she founded to improve education, health, and community wellbeing in rural Kenya. From leadership lessons learned in the Army to advocating for patient-centred care and better outcomes for veterans, this episode is packed with practical insights, genuine conversation, and an important reminder that good care starts with good communication.🌐 Learn more about With Me With You: withmewithyou.com.au🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #VBCPodcast #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranHealthcare #VeteranSupport #ADF #MilitaryMedicine #DVA #Leadership #ArmyDoctor #Transition #MentalHealth #WithMeWithYou

Latest episode out!S03E31 | Glenn Keys - Aspen Medical - Arte et Marte! From test pilot on rotary wing and F18, through to starting the global leader in deployable health care - Aspen Medical. An amazing Australian #stillserving through his business, leadership and Project Independence.From flying rotary wing aircraft and F18s in the Australian Defence Force to founding one of the world’s leading deployable healthcare companies, Glenn Keys AO has built a life around service, leadership, and impact.As Founder of Aspen Medical, Glenn has grown the organisation from a startup in 2003 into a globally respected healthcare provider operating across 21 countries, delivering innovative medical solutions in some of the world’s most remote and challenging environments.But this conversation goes far beyond business success.Glenn shares insights from his military career, the lessons learned leading high-performing teams under pressure, and why social purpose has always been central to Aspen Medical’s mission. We also dive into Project Independence, the charity Glenn founded to help people with intellectual disabilities achieve home ownership, along with his continued support of veterans through Invictus Australia and the Invictus Games Foundation.This is an episode about leadership, purpose, service beyond the uniform, and building organisations that genuinely make a difference.🎧 Listen to the full episode:👉 veteranbc.com/veteran-media 🌐 Learn more:👉 https://www.aspenmedical.com/🌐 Join the VBC Community:👉 veteranbc.com/join-our-community #VBC #VBCPodcast #VeteranBusinessCommunity #AspenMedical #Leadership #ArteEtMarte #StillServing #VeteranLeadership #Healthcare #Entrepreneurship #Invictus #ProjectIndependence

New Episode Drop!Phil Dembon - British Navy veteran now passionate North Queenslander. From Manchester to Mareeba and the Cairns VBC regional chapter starting upFrom the Royal Navy to regional North Queensland, Phil Dembon’s journey spans countries, careers, and a lifelong return to service through community.Born in England, Phil joined the Royal Navy in 1972 and served until 1985. After relocating to Australia in 1986, he built a diverse career across the NSW Prison Service, private security, and eventually ran his own security business in Darwin. Along the way, his work expanded into counselling, massage training, and financial education, helping people navigate debt and rebuild stability.Today, Phil focuses on helping everyday Australians understand digital assets in a clear, practical, and scam-aware way. In a space often driven by hype and confusion, his approach is grounded in education first — slowing things down, highlighting risks, and helping people make informed decisions before they invest.In this episode, Phil also shares his personal journey of rediscovering connection to the veteran community through VBC, and his role in helping grow the Cairns regional chapter in Far North Queensland.This is a conversation about reinvention, lived experience, and why education and community matter more than ever.🎧 Listen to the full episode: 👉 veteranbc.com/veteran-media 🌐 Join the VBC Community: 👉 veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #VBCPodcast #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranOwnedBusiness #VeteranTransition #Community #DigitalAssets #FinancialEducation #MilitaryToCivilian #NorthQueensland

Latest episode out!S03E29 | Andrew Macdonald - From Army Officer to building global brands. Scaling Ringers Western, expanding into the US, and what it really takes to growWhat does it actually take to turn an idea into a globally recognised brand?In this episode, we sit down with Andrew Macdonald — entrepreneur, operator, and former Army Officer — whose career spans military leadership and high-level commercial execution across apparel, footwear, and wellness.As Founder and former CEO of Ringers Western, Andrew took a startup concept and scaled it into a leading apparel brand, growing to 130+ staff, 350+ wholesale accounts globally, and a valuation exceeding $60M.He now leads Genuins USA, driving North American expansion for a $400M+ global footwear business, and is also Co-Founder & CEO of ALIVIA Wellness, a performance-focused health brand built for scale in the digital space.This conversation cuts into the reality of building and scaling businesses — from brand positioning and distribution to leadership, discipline, and commercial decision-making under pressure.🎧 Listen to the full episode: 👉 veteranbc.com/veteran-media🌐 Join the VBC Community: 👉 veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #VBCPodcast #VeteranBusinessCommunity #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #BrandBuilding #Scaling #BusinessGrowth