Unlocking Resilience: A Combat Veteran's Journey from Battle to Business

In this gripping episode of "From Battle to Business," host Dean Van Dyke sits down with Will Yeske, a combat veteran with 11 years of service in the United States Army and a serial entrepreneur. Their conversation takes us through Will's military service, his transition to civilian life, and how the discipline and resilience forged in combat have shaped his approach to entrepreneurship.

Why This Episode Is a Must-Listen:

As someone deeply entrenched in leadership and personal development, I found Will's story inspiring and incredibly valuable for anyone looking to understand the power of resilience. His experiences, from the adrenaline-fueled days in the 82nd Airborne to the creation of his book "Damn the Valley," offer profound insights into overcoming adversity and finding purpose beyond the battlefield.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Call to Serve: Will's journey began with a deep-seated desire to serve, leading him to the military and the 82nd Airborne.
2. Lessons from the Frontline: His combat experiences, particularly in Afghanistan's Helmand province and the Arghandab River Valley, taught him invaluable lessons in leadership, teamwork, and the importance of adaptability.
3. Transitioning to Civilian Life: Will discusses the challenges and opportunities of transitioning from military to civilian life, emphasizing the role of discipline and resilience.
4. Entrepreneurship as a Battlefield: Drawing parallels between his military service and entrepreneurship, Will shares how the skills acquired in the army have fueled his business ventures.
5. The Power of Storytelling: Through his book, "Damn the Valley," Will aims to bridge the gap between military and civilian worlds, sharing stories of courage, sacrifice, and the complex nature of war.

Quotes to Remember:

• "Every day is a holiday, and every meal is a banquet."
• "One of the lessons I learned was to listen to what your intuition is telling you."
• "It's up to you to take that sort of thing to your community and show them."

Resources Mentioned:

• "Damn the Valley" by Will Yeske: A book that captures the essence of combat experience and its impact on soldiers and their families.
• 82nd Airborne Division: An airborne infantry division of the United States Army specializing in parachute assault operations.

Personal Best Advice:

Remember that resilience is crucial to anyone facing challenges, whether in one's personal life or career or transitioning from military to civilian roles. Embrace the discipline and adaptability you've developed, and apply these principles to overcome obstacles and pursue your goals.

FAQ:

• What inspired you to join the military? The desire to serve and make a difference was my primary motivation.
• How did your military experience influence your approach to business? It instilled in me a sense of discipline, resilience, and the importance of teamwork.
• What challenges did you face when transitioning to civilian life? Adapting to a less structured environment and finding new ways to apply my skills and experiences.
• Why did you decide to write "Damn the Valley?" To share the untold stories of bravery and the realities of war, bridging the gap between military and civilian perceptions.
• What advice do you have for veterans transitioning to civilian careers? Leverage your unique skills and experiences, stay resilient, and don't be afraid to seek support and resources.

Connect with Will at:

Damn the Valley

Connect with Dean Van Dyke | Business Coaching Guaranteed Results | Seattle WA

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