Summary:

Melissa Washington returns to Dog Tag Diaries for a powerful refresher conversation that blends reflection with real-world strategy. Since her first appearance in Episode 9, her organizations have grown into nationally recognized platforms supporting women veteran entrepreneurs, leaders, and changemakers.

In this episode, Melissa shares how Women Veterans Alliance has evolved, why Women Veterans Giving was created, and what she has learned about building sustainable nonprofit and business ecosystems. We also reflect on the Melissa Washington Small Business Award, our shared experience at the Veterans in Business Network National Conference, and the importance of intentional collaboration.

This conversation is for women veterans who are thinking long term but building in real time.

In this episode, we cover:

1. The evolution of Women Veterans Alliance since Season 1
2. Why women veteran entrepreneurs need both community and infrastructure
3. The purpose and impact of the Melissa Washington Small Business Award
4. Key takeaways from the Veterans in Business Network National Conference
5. New collaborations and ventures Melissa is developing
6. Practical lessons for women veterans building businesses and nonprofits now

Notable Quotes & Moments:

1. “You miss 100% of the shots you never take.” – Melissa on taking risks and starting before you feel ready [00:13:42]
2. “I was flying the plane and building it at the same time.” – On launching without a business plan [00:11:02]
3. “If I can kick in the door for others, that’s what I’m going to keep doing.” – Melissa on legacy and leadership [00:28:52]
4. “Do it, sister. Do it.” – Her advice to women sitting on an idea [00:43:51]

Timestamps:

1. 00:03:28 – How Women Veterans Alliance started
2. 00:06:18 – When growth required structure
3. 00:14:42 – Inside the Women Veterans Alliance website and resources
4. 00:21:33 – Women Veterans Engaged Conference explained
5. 00:30:25 – The Melissa Washington Small Business Award
6. 00:36:30 – The power of funding and community support
7. 00:42:14 – Advice for women building something new

Connect with Melissa:

Women Veterans Alliance: https://www.womenveteransalliance.com

Women Veterans Giving: https://www.womenveteransgiving.org

Melissawashington.com

http://Www.Veteran.Events

Melissa Washington is an award-winning advocate, speaker, author, entrepreneur, CEO, publisher, Radio Show Host, and proud Navy veteran. She wears many hats. Yet woven throughout her diverse pursuits is a mission of service and a passion to empower her fellow women veterans. The daughter of a Bronze Star Army Vietnam War veteran, Melissa grew up in San Francisco’s East Bay. Fiercely independent as a child, she spent many afternoons in her family’s video store, developing an early sense of business acumen.

Outside of work, Melissa enjoys spending quality time with her husband, Jarrod, and daughter, Maya. In addition to being an avid genealogist, Melissa loves vacationing with her family, particularly trips that involve a beach.

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