From Launching Startups to Serving Veterans: The Big Difference of being an Entrepreneur, a Civilian & a Federal Employee (My Annual Christmas Reflections 2024)

Maligayang Pasko, everyone!  (That's Merry Christmas in Tagalog, for those who don't know. Gotta represent my Filipino roots!)

This Christmas, I'm reflecting on my unconventional journey – from scaling businesses and launching startups to serving veterans and bridging gaps as a Filipino American entrepreneur and federal contractor. It's a challenging transition and journey that goes beyond the bottom line, fueled by a passion for giving back and finding deeper purpose this Christmas season.

Recent Christmas Week 2024 with mom's new home 

As the aroma of lechon, arroz caldo / lugaw (that is my Christmas potluck tomorrow by the way), lumpia (our potluck from last night's Sam Friends and Parent's party - see photo) and pancit fill the air, and the sounds of Jose Mari Chan's Christmas carols (yes enjoy the Original Pilipino English Christmas carol background while you read my blog) waft through the house, I can't help but reflect on this past year. It's been a wild ride, full of twists and turns, culminating today my 1st year anniversary in my official check-in at Bldg U93 Norfolk Naval Base as a Government Contractor.

December 2024 Roadtrip with Mom's from her last home, last Christmas.

Now, you all know I've worn many hats in my life. Navy veteran, entrepreneur, counselor, educator, government contractor and now federal employee. And let me tell you, this transition from the "free-for-all" of the civilian world to the structured environment of federal work has been a difficult but fulfilling experience. It's like stepping back into the military, with the routines, the chain of command, and the leaders together with co-workers who still carry that military aura. But here's the interesting thing: it's not quite the same. There's this undercurrent of "freedom" – you know, "Do what you want," "Let's vote on it" – but it's a bit of an illusion. It's like they give you a taste of freedom, but within a very defined box.

Having navigated both worlds – the military for 23 years, the corporate (both at Amex & Jobmetrix) and and for 12 years - entrepreneurial world, and now the federal government – I've developed a unique perspective. It's like looking at life through a kaleidoscope, seeing the same elements rearranged in different patterns.

And speaking of the entrepreneurial world, I can't help but feel a sense of pride when I think about Mvoss Creation. What started as a dream that my wife, Myla, and I shared has now blossomed into a nationwide success story. Myla's at the helm now, and she's absolutely crushing it! Mvoss Creation has become the go-to source for branded merchandise, not just here in Virginia, but for federal, state, and local organizations and universities across the country. It's incredibly inspiring to see her passion and dedication take the company to new heights.

Of course, I can't forget my other ventures (it is currently on-pause): Fusionmeet, the cultural networking platform that brings people together, and Commercewise by Tony Astro, my consulting company where I get to share my expertise and help businesses thrive. It's been an amazing journey, and I'm grateful for every opportunity I've had to make a difference.

And speaking of perspectives, my experience with the REISIC assessment has really opened my eyes to the challenges veterans face when transitioning to civilian life. It's not always easy to translate military skills and experience into the civilian world, and sometimes, the resources available aren't as up-to-date as they could be.

Here are a few key differences that stand out:

• Structure is King: Just like in the military, the federal government loves its protocols and procedures. Everything is by the book, and there's a process for everything. It reminds me of my time at the Department of Defense Fleet & Family Support Center, where I was managing military data across various systems. It was all about maintaining that structure to ensure smooth operations. (And let's be honest, with a PhD, I appreciate a good system!)
• The Chain of Command is Alive and Well: Hierarchy is important in both the military and the federal government. It's about clear communication and efficient execution. It takes me back to my days as a military chief career counselor, supervising 50 counselors for thousands of personnel. We achieved a 98% career satisfaction rate, and I believe that clear chain of command played a crucial role.
• Job Security is a Priority: One thing I appreciate about federal work is the stability. It's a lot like the military in that sense. You're not constantly worried about layoffs or downsizing. My current role requires a Secret Clearance and access to military personnel records, which adds another layer of security.
• Service is the Common Thread: Both the military and the federal government are driven by a sense of service. It's about contributing to something larger than yourself. At my current federal job, I conduct weekly workshops on transition, benefits, education, and job counseling. It's all about supporting our military personnel, and that resonates deeply with me.
• Benefits are a Blessing: Just like the military, the federal government offers comprehensive benefits. It's definitely a major perk compared to the often unpredictable world of entrepreneurship.

Besides being an Educator & Counselor, FFSC also do outreach
during career week at Naval Station Norfolk, marketing our life skills programs.

Now, let's talk about entrepreneurship. It's a whole different ball game.

The Upsides:

• Freedom to Fly: You're the captain of your own ship. You make the decisions, you set the course. When I was the Marketing Director at Mvoss Creation, I had the freedom to create and execute innovative marketing plans, resulting in a 30% increase in client acquisition.
• Earning Potential Unleashed: Entrepreneurship offers the potential for unlimited financial growth. I've collaborated with non-profits to create 12 new brands, and the financial rewards were significant.
• Creativity Knows No Bounds: No bureaucratic red tape to stifle your innovation. You can bring your ideas to life without jumping through hoops. I remember pioneering social media campaigns that resulted in a 50% increase in online engagement. That's the power of creative freedom.
• Flexibility is Your Friend: You set your own hours, you create your own work-life balance. I've managed to juggle my time to help over 150 business owners achieve success, all while maintaining a flexible schedule.
• Satisfaction Beyond Measure: There's nothing quite like building something from the ground up and watching it thrive. I've engineered marketing strategies that boosted client revenue by 25%, and that sense of accomplishment is priceless.

The Downsides:

• Risk is Your Constant Companion: Entrepreneurship is inherently risky. You could lose it all. Even with my successes, the financial risks were always present.
• Long Hours are the Norm: Be prepared to put in the time, especially in the beginning. When I was striving for that 30% increase in client acquisition, it meant a lot of late nights and long hours.
• Uncertainty Can Be a Rollercoaster: Income can be unpredictable, and there's no guaranteed paycheck. I remember the ups and downs of client engagements and the financial uncertainty that came with it.
• You're the Jack of All Trades: As an entrepreneur, you wear all the hats. You're the manager, the accountant, the HR department, and everything in between. Managing contracts and staying compliant with all the rules and regulations can be overwhelming.
• Stress Can Be Your Shadow: The pressure to succeed can be intense. I remember balancing the needs of 35 new local businesses and 10 government agencies during social media campaigns. Talk about stress!

So, why the shift to the federal government?

Well, after 12 years of witnessing veterans struggle after leaving the military, I felt a calling to serve. Many veterans have a tough time transitioning to civilian life, especially if they don't have a pension, disability, or a federal job. I want to make a difference. I want to use my experience, my education, and my passion to help those veterans find their footing and build a successful future.

This federal role gives me the stability and the platform to do just that. I'm grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this dedicated team, and I'm excited to see what we can accomplish together.

My Team with FFSC teaches Life Skills in Transition and then Giving them a One on Once Counseling before they leave the military.  Here again with some outreach to our active-duty family members.

However, in my humble opinion as an entrepreneur and recently reinstated Global Career Development Facilitator (GCDF), Certified Master of Career Services (CMCS), Certified Career Services Provider (CCSP), I've noticed that some of the programs are a bit behind the times. It's understandable, given the bureaucracy involved, but it does concern me that some veterans might be getting outdated ways of delivering the good information they need and educators not inspiring them to move forward successfully. For example, the latest DODTAP program curriculum is from 2019, and it doesn't fully address some of the latest trends and innovations in the civilian job market. This means that after their workshop, some veterans might find themselves with slightly obsolete information BUT it is up to the educator to inspire them not like those I've met from 2014-2023, they don't remember and was not inspired by their "forgettable" uninspired educator. It's ALL up to the qualified Educators who experienced an actual military to civilian transition (no matter how good they deliver it with perfect information, how they deliver is what matters) and I'm hoping to contribute to bridging that gap and ensuring our veterans have access to the most current and relevant information possible.

But here's the thing: my entrepreneurial spirit is still burning bright. Once I've made a tangible impact on the lives of some of the veterans I'm working with (hopefully in the next 2-4 years as counselor and life skills coach / educator), I plan to dive back into the entrepreneurial world. I have big dreams, but ultimately, I leave it all in the hands of God. This Christmas season, I'm celebrating His resurrection with joy, gratitude, and a deep appreciation for the journey that has led me here.

Maligayang Pasko and a prosperous New Year to you all!