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.