What does it take to build a business after military service?

Nick Haley, founder of Little Big Tech and military veteran, speaks with entrepreneur Ben Williams about his journey from the military into business. Ben shares how his career began in the Marines, what he learned during a tough tour in Afghanistan, and how those experiences shaped his values and leadership style.

They talk about how Ben made the leap from coaching football teams to founding Loopin, a tech platform designed to help businesses understand and support their people. Ben opens up about the challenges of raising money, learning to sell, and coping with setbacks, while staying true to the mindset he developed in the forces.

If you're leaving the military or building something of your own, this conversation offers practical lessons, honest reflections, and plenty of ideas for what’s possible after service.

Nick Haley sits down with Lewis Manalo, a combat veteran and a creative force behind the blockbuster Tom Clancy video games. Lewis left the military and started writing video games (yes they do have writers), and he shares how he made it on this journey from military service to becoming a lead writer in the gaming industry, along with founding his own game studio, Old Glory Studios. You'll hear:

• Transition from Military to Creative Industry: Lewis discusses his emotional response to 9/11, which motivated his enlistment in the Army, and his subsequent transition to civilian life.
• Military Influence on Writing: Insights on how his military background shapes the storytelling in game development.
• The Gaming Industry Journey: His entry into gaming through "Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Wildlands" and role evolution to lead writer for its sequel.
• Founding Old Glory Studios: The structure and philosophy behind setting up the studio akin to an independent film company.
• Veteran Community Engagement: The importance of community and camaraderie for veterans post-service.
• Advice for Veterans Transitioning to Civilian Life: Lewis emphasises patience and the importance of finding the right post-military career path.

Lewis is a former combat engineer in the 82nd Airborne Division with deployments to Afghanistan. Transitioning from his military career, he delved into the creative sector, particularly in film and video games. He became a key writer for Tom Clancy's video game series, eventually leading writing teams for major game titles. Luis is now the co-founder and executive producer at Old Glory Studios, focusing on developing games by leveraging his film and military experience.

Nick Haley chats with Luke Dalton, a former Royal Marines Commando and co-founder of Contact Coffee. They talk about Luke’s journey from military life to launching a successful coffee brand. Luke shares how skills like planning, discipline, and resilience helped him transition into business. He also explains how Contact Coffee started almost by accident and grew into a well-known e-commerce company with its bold, high-caffeine blends (Nick's a big fan).

The episode covers the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, from navigating COVID challenges to expanding into digital marketing. Luke gives practical advice for veterans thinking about life after the military—start early, take risks, and learn from mistakes. Whether you're a coffee lover, a veteran, or someone curious about turning military skills into business success, this episode has something for you.