In the bustling world of the spirits industry, one brand stands out as a true beacon of patriotism and purpose – Heroes Vodka. Founded by Travis McVeigh, a Marine Corps veteran, this unique vodka brand is more than just a delicious spirit; it's a testament to the sacrifices and service of those who have dedicated their lives to protecting our nation.

Travis shared his remarkable journey, from growing up in a small town in Indiana to becoming a decorated Marine and ultimately, an entrepreneur driven by a deep sense of duty and camaraderie.

Travis' story is one of resilience and determination. Facing the challenges of his parents' divorce at a young age, he found solace and discipline in the military, joining the Army Reserves at just 16 and later transitioning to the Marine Corps. It was during his time at the prestigious Marine Barracks 8th and I in Washington, D.C., that Travis forged unbreakable bonds with two fellow Marines, Richard and Tommy, who would later become the inspiration behind Heroes Vodka.

Tragically, both Richard and Tommy lost their lives in the line of duty – Richard as an Indiana state trooper and Tommy in Afghanistan. It was in the wake of these devastating losses that Travis found his true calling, determined to honor their memory and the sacrifices of all service members through his entrepreneurial endeavor.

With a passion for service and a drive to succeed, Travis set out to create a vodka brand that would not only be a high-quality spirit but also a vehicle for giving back to the veteran community. The journey was not without its challenges, as Travis navigated the complexities of the spirits industry as a newcomer.

However, through perseverance and a willingness to learn, Travis partnered with industry veteran Robert Lippmann. Together, they leveraged the buying power and expertise of industry giants like Buffalo Trace to create a product that could compete with established brands while maintaining an affordable price point.

What sets Heroes Vodka apart is not just its exceptional taste, but the ethos that underpins the brand. Crafted from 100% American corn and free of gluten and glycerin, the vodka is a pure, high-quality spirit that can be enjoyed straight or in a variety of cocktails.

Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Heroes Vodka has continued to grow, expanding its distribution to several states and garnering recognition for its quality, with the brand winning multiple gold and silver medals.

As the brand prepares to unveil a fresh, new look in the new year, Travis encourages supporters to reach out to their local retailers and request Heroes Vodka.

Throughout the interview, Travis' resilience and compassion shone through.

His message of "post-traumatic growth" – the idea that we can emerge from tragedy as better, more empathetic individuals – is a powerful testament to the human spirit. Travis' willingness to be vulnerable and share his own struggles serves as an inspiration to others who may be facing their own challenges, reminding us that even in the darkest of times, there is the potential for growth and triumph.

The story of Heroes Vodka is one that transcends the boundaries of the spirits industry. It is a tale of friendship, sacrifice, and the unwavering determination of a veteran-turned-entrepreneur who is committed to honoring those who have served. Through his brand, Travis McVeigh is not only creating a high-quality product but also building a community that celebrates the unsung heroes of our nation.

As we raise a glass to Heroes Vodka, we are also raising a glass to the men and women who have dedicated their lives to protecting our freedom. It is a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of community, and the transformative potential of turning tragedy into triumph.

In this episode of the Wake Up with Patti Katter podcast, host Patti Katter sat down with Mike Roger, executive director of the Patriot Chamber, to discuss how this non-profit organization is transforming the lives of veterans transitioning into the civilian workforce.

The Patriot Chamber, founded during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, was created by civilians to address the unique challenges many veterans face when re-entering the job market. Mike, a military veteran himself, explained that the Chamber’s mission is to build a supportive community of businesses eager to welcome veterans and help them thrive as entrepreneurs, executives, or in other leadership roles.

A flagship initiative of the Patriot Chamber is the Veterans Transition and Leadership Conference (VTLC). This full-day event equips senior military leaders with the tools needed to mentally and professionally transition into private-sector leadership roles.

What sets the VTLC apart is its emphasis on civilian-led sessions. Instead of veterans presenting, the conference features civilian speakers who provide insights into what employers expect from veteran hires. According to Mike, this approach is essential because many civilian employers lack experience working with veterans and don’t fully understand the value they bring, such as unmatched leadership and operational efficiency.

Supporting this effort, expert Christopher Hayes from Service Academy offers tailored guidance and specialized training during these sessions, ensuring veterans are prepared for the transition. Patti Katter, host of Wake Up with Patti Katter and a longtime advocate for military families, also lends her expertise by assisting with training and providing leadership insights.

The US Patriot Chamber of Commerce offers more than conferences. Veterans, military members, first responders, and other heroes can access free resume review services, helping translate military experience into language that resonates with civilian employers.

Although headquartered in Florida, the Chamber has a national strategic expansion plan.

Mike emphasized that the US Patriot Chamber of Commerce operates with a collaborative spirit, not a competitive one. The organization partners with other veteran-focused groups to share resources and maximize its reach, ensuring more veterans successfully transition into civilian careers.

Those interested in learning more or supporting the Patriot Chamber can visit their website at patriotchamber.org or follow them on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. For additional training and expertise, explore Service Academy, where Christopher Hayes and Patti Katter continue to serve.

The US Patriot Chamber of Commerce, with the help of dedicated individuals, is bridging the gap between the military and civilian worlds. Together, they are creating meaningful opportunities and empowering veterans to thrive in their post-service careers. Their commitment and collaboration are a testament to the strength and potential of our nation’s heroes.

Adam Johnson, Drill Sergeant in the U.S. Army and co-host of the "Whiskey and Windage" podcast - Adam shares his journey of joining the Army later in life at age 29 after working as a personal trainer. He discusses the role of a drill sergeant and the unique challenges of training new soldiers. - Adam talks about his passion for the 2nd Amendment and how he co-founded the "Whiskey and Windage" podcast, which covers gun culture, companies, and influencers. The podcast has grown significantly and was nominated for a "Gundy Award" this year (go give him your support!)

Adam opens up about overcoming alcohol addiction and taking personal responsibility for his life, emphasizing that it's crucial not to make excuses or blame others. - Advice for those considering joining the military: Treat it as a serious career choice, not just something to do. Use the benefits like education assistance to set yourself up for success. - Find Adam on Instagram @AdamJ_Official and check out the "Whiskey and Windage" podcast at whiskeyanwindage.com.