More Than a Cup of Coffee-Pillars of Valor

The essence of community and transformation is at the heart of every veteran's journey in entrepreneurship, a theme vividly brought to life through the experiences of Zach Husted , owner and operator of Pillars of Valor . Highlighting his recent participation in the Iowa Business Hour 2024, Zach's story is a testament to the profound impact of Warrior Rising on veterans embarking on entrepreneurial paths.

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From the outset, Zach's enthusiasm is palpable. Reflecting on his connection with Warrior Rising, he recounts, "Transformational is the word that I would use to describe it." This single word encapsulates the essence of his experience—one that not only provided him with invaluable business insights but also a sense of belonging and support from a network of like-minded individuals. Warrior Rising, for Zach, was more than a program; it was a transformative journey that reshaped his perspective and approach to business.

Warrior Rising's influence on Zach was profound. He candidly admits, "I didn't really know what I got into... I met Ken Venera through networking... and got connected with it, went through the program." This connection opened doors to a wealth of knowledge and resources that Zach, a seasoned business professional, found crucial. The program's ability to facilitate learning in a simplistic yet impactful manner, combined with the camaraderie and mutual support among participants, created an environment where veterans could thrive and grow.

A significant takeaway for Zach was the sense of community—what he describes as a "tribe." This community provided him with a network he could "wholeheartedly lean into, ask questions, tap into networks, resources... to really help level up." Contrary to misconceptions about handouts, Warrior Rising offered "a hand up" by equipping veterans with the tools and resources necessary to accelerate their growth and success. Zach emphasizes, "I tell every veteran that I come across to go sign up, dig in, and learn how to accelerate growth and your network for whatever you're doing."

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The experience of Warrior Rising was not just educational but also deeply emotional and inspiring. Zach shares, "I was blown away. The people that come to it, the show, the experience, and just like, the goosebumps you get from it... the feeling of camaraderie and the connectedness." Such experiences underscored the unique and powerful atmosphere fostered by Warrior Rising, one that Zach hadn't encountered elsewhere.

Transitioning to his entrepreneurial journey, Zach's creation of Pillars of Valor stands as a beacon of resilience and purpose. The inception of his coffee company is rooted in personal struggles and a desire to offer support to others. "Pillars of Valor is a personal mission for me," he explains. It’s about "overcoming moments in life that really define you and helps give people resilience." The veteran community, often grappling with mental health challenges, finds solace and strength in such initiatives. Zach himself experienced dark times, and his ability to seek help and support became the foundation of his business.

Pillars of Valor, at its core, aims to "slow down, take a deep breath, collect your thoughts, and invite someone to have a conversation with you or... a cup of coffee." This simple yet profound mission encapsulates the essence of connection and support. Zach's goal is to use coffee as a medium to foster conversations and build a sense of community, raising funds to pay it forward to fellow veterans. "It's all about connecting communities and veterans through coffee," he emphasizes, illustrating the noble cause behind his enterprise.

Zach's vision extends beyond coffee; it's about creating a movement. He dreams of Pillars of Valor being a symbol of unity and support, with its elegant design and meaningful mission making it a proud addition to any home. "How many homes can I build for people? That's my inspiration," he declares, highlighting his commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of veterans.

The journey of entrepreneurship is fraught with challenges, particularly in balancing personal life and business demands. Zach candidly admits his struggles, "Balance is hard to fully achieve... You have to stop, you have to make intentional decisions at it." He underscores the importance of prioritizing and having a supportive network that understands the demands of entrepreneurship.

For aspiring veteran entrepreneurs, Zach offers valuable advice. "First thing you have to do is write it out. What is it? Then... what does the exit strategy look like?" This forward-thinking approach, often overlooked, is crucial in planning for the future. He also advises using personal funds as a last resort, encouraging veterans to seek funding through other means. Moreover, he emphasizes the importance of community engagement and giving more than one takes. "Learn how to give in the community more than you take," he advises, stressing the value of building relationships and supporting others.

Looking ahead, Zach is excited about potential collaborations and community work. His proactive approach in engaging with the community has opened doors to unique opportunities and partnerships. One such initiative involves strategic partnerships with nonprofits, where specific coffee roasts support particular causes.

"Every bag that is sold with the Warrior Rising brand on it... would have a direct dollar value go to Warrior Rising," he explains, highlighting a model that benefits both his business and the supported nonprofits.

Zach’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact of support and community on veteran entrepreneurs. Warrior Rising has played a pivotal role in his journey, providing the tools, resources, and network necessary to succeed. His advice to fellow veterans is clear: believe in your vision, engage with your community, and don't be afraid to seek help and support. As Zach continues to grow Pillars of Valor, his mission remains unwavering—to connect communities and veterans through coffee, raising funds to support those who have served.

In closing, Zach's journey is a testament to the power of community, resilience, and purpose. His work with Pillars of Valor and his engagement with Warrior Rising exemplify the positive impact of veteran entrepreneurship. For those inspired by Zach's story, Warrior Rising offers a unique opportunity to support and empower veteran entrepreneurs, fostering a community where they can thrive and make a lasting difference.

Warrior Rising invites you to join this mission. Whether through financial contributions, volunteering, or simply sharing their story, every action helps create a brighter future for veterans.

"We can’t do this alone," Zach Husted reminds us. "But together, we can achieve great things."

Get involved with Warrior Rising today!