Ronald Steptoe, CMR, DABDA’s Post

Our next article in our "Breaking into Private Equity: A Veteran's Guide", has just been published!

I'm excited to share a new insight piece from Swaney Group, "Breaking into Private Equity: A Veteran's Guide," where we embark on the first chapter of a comprehensive twelve-part series. In this initial exploration, part 1a, we delve into the intrinsic connection between the demanding realms of military service and private equity, highlighting four fundamental attributes: Discipline, Strategic Thinking, Leadership, and Accountability. This article, featuring real-world applications and including reflections from how we have staffed veterans in meaningful situations, emphasizes the seamless transition veterans can make, thanks to the skills honed from rigorous military experiences. It's not about veterans reinventing theirselves, but recognizing how their unique experiences are not just transferable but essential for transformative success in private equity. Join us in this insightful discussion and discover the depth of potential that veterans bring to the private equity landscape. And remember, this is just the beginning — we're eager to introduce part 1b soon, where we'll continue to bridge the world of military excellence with the dynamic sphere of private markets. Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/e4nSB_n2 #veteran #privateequity #pepathways #peveterns

In military service, one understands the incredible power of a cohesive unit. It's no different in the civilian world of business and entrepreneurship. Going it alone is tempting, yet it can stifle growth. Collaboration, strategic partnerships, and leveraging collective strengths can propel us toward exponential growth. Let's connect, build, and GROW together. #Synergy #BusinessGrowth #NetworkingProfessionals

Hey #Bankreadycommunity, I wanted to share my thoughts briefly on the significance of Veterans and how you can honor their service & sacrifice by supporting Veteran-Owned businesses. Veterans will always hold a special place in the fabric of society. Their service, regardless of background, often at immense personal sacrifice, is a testament to their dedication to their country & its values.. One of the ways in which many veterans channel their skills and leadership abilities post-service is through entrepreneurship. Veteran-owned businesses contribute significantly to the economy, bringing in unique perspectives shaped by military experiences. These businesses range from small startups to large corporations, spanning various industries. Supporting veteran-owned businesses is more than a gesture of gratitude; it's an investment in a community that has already invested so much in us. It's a way to acknowledge their service while empowering them in their civilian endeavors. As consumers, entrepreneurs, and citizens, we can all play a role in ensuring that the transition from military to civilian life is not just a challenge to be overcome, but an opportunity for growth and success. Again, thank you for your service. #veterans #veteransday #vosb #militarytransition

Dear United States Department of Defense, As a decorated, disabled US Army combat veteran and the CEO of Veterans Intellectual Property, I view the inclusion of Section 529B in the National Defense Authorization Act (#NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024 with deep concern. This section, which restricts the establishment of new diversity, equity, and inclusion (#DEI) roles within the #DoD, represents a step back from our nation's commitment to inclusive excellence. In the military, I learned the value of unity amidst diversity. Our strength on the battlefield came from the amalgamation of varied backgrounds and perspectives. It's disheartening to see Section 529B potentially undermining this ethos by placing limitations on DEI roles—positions that are critical for ensuring that our defense strategies and practices reflect our nation's rich diversity. Moreover, as a leader committed to empowering #veterans, I understand the importance of inclusive opportunities in both military and civilian life. Many veterans, including those from minority communities, transition to #entrepreneurship, often finding opportunities in defense contracts. The freeze on DEI roles could indirectly impact these veteran-owned businesses, particularly those run by Black veterans, by limiting their access to equal opportunities in the defense procurement process. The DEI initiatives within the DoD are not just symbolic gestures; they are crucial for fostering an environment where every service member, veteran, and defense contractor feels valued and included. These initiatives also play a key role in ensuring that the defense supply chain, including thousands of Black-owned businesses, is robust and representative of America's diversity. As a nation, we must remember that diversity and inclusion are not just societal values; they are strategic assets. The progress we've made in integrating these values into our military and defense policies must not be undone. It's imperative that we continue to champion policies that embrace diversity, ensuring that every veteran, every entrepreneur, and every American has an equal opportunity to contribute to our nation's defense and prosperity.

In honor of #VeteransDay, we're helping to highlight the enormous impact Veterans make in business, as well as the challenges they face in transition and entrepreneurship. This week the House Committee on Veterans Affairs held a hearing on “Veterans Serving Veterans: The Impact of America’s Businesses on Veteran Employment and Opportunity.” Joe Gelardi, Vectrona CEO had the privilege of representing Veteran Small Businesses with testimony before the Committee highlighting, "Veteran entrepreneurs employ nearly 6 million American workers, and their businesses small and large generate about $1.2 trillion in annual revenue. Veterans represent just 2.3% of the workforce but Veteran businesses account for an oversized 7.3% of the U.S. private sector economy. This isn't just a statistic; it's a testament to their indomitable spirit and the value they add post-service, including the experienced mission insight they critically provide to the Department of Defense." The full video and information about the hearing can be found here: https://lnkd.in/ehGPW3tr #veteranownedbusiness #sdvosb #houseofrepresentatives #veteransaffairs

In honor of Veteran's Day, in our latest blog post, we talked with Sean Campbell, a veteran and the founder of Mountain Top Candle Shop. Discover how his military experience shaped his entrepreneurial journey! Read the blog now: https://lnkd.in/gFCuK5kB #VeteransDay #ThankYouVeterans #VeteranEntrepreneurs

I attended an event last week hosted by the incomparable Amy Porterfield. She challenged us to #DSD (do something different). Today, I reflect on a different type of entrepreneurial spirit. It’s the 76th birthday of the United States Air Force. A thought struck me - the USAF didn't exist during WWII but emerged from the National Security Act of 1947, a true testament to the power of #DSD.  The audacity to change, to adapt, to evolve - that's what separates the ordinary from the extraordinary. I marveled at the courage it took to make such a monumental shift. What conversations and debates must have filled the rooms of the US Army and the US Army Air Forces before this decision? This introspection was a wake-up call, a reminder that we too often get caught in the monotony of repetitions. How many times have I, or you, done the same thing the 2nd, 20th, or 100th time, expecting different results? The answer hit me like a bolt of lightning - it's time to #DSD. So, to all the business leaders and storytellers out there, I pose this question: What's your Do Something Different opportunity? Let's dare to disrupt and create. The world didn't change by staying the same. As we celebrate the USAF's birthday, let's also celebrate the power of transformation. Here's to doing something different and making a difference! #DSD #USAFBirthday #EntrepreneurLife