The Transition Playbook: Business School, Startups & Finding Success – Mark Delaney | Ep 29

In this episode of Veteran Ventures, we sit down with Mark Delaney, a veteran who has spent the last five years helping service members transition into the business world.

Mark is the host of the Veteran Semi-Professional Podcast (over 230 episodes!), runs a weekly newsletter packed with resources for veterans, and has built multiple businesses - including acquiring a SaaS company.

But before all of that, he was just like many others leaving the military - uncertain about his future and just trying to get into business school to start his next chapter.

This conversation is packed with insights on:

• The biggest mistakes veterans make during transition
• Why taking time off before jumping into your next career might be the best decision
• How to leverage the veteran network to unlock opportunities
• The world of entrepreneurship through acquisition - why buying a small business might be your best move
• The importance of dreaming bigger and breaking free from others' expectations

Key Takeaways:
✅ Your first job isn’t your last job – Give yourself grace to pivot.
✅ Take a step back before jumping forward – No one regrets taking time off after service.
✅ Leverage your veteran network – People want to help, but you have to ask.
✅ Dream bigger – The military mindset can limit how big you think about your future.
✅ There’s no perfect plan – You’ll adapt, just like you always have.

"You're not behind. You have decades to build your career and wealth. The key is starting in the right direction and staying flexible."

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Connect with Mark: LinkedIn
The Veteran Professional
Business Buyers – Resources for buying small businesses
SBA Lenders – Helping connect borrowers to SBA lenders
[TechStacks](Coming Soon) – A new project highlighting tools used by entrepreneurs

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Connect with Griffin: LinkedIn
Connect with Jack: Instagram

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If this episode resonated with you, share it with a fellow veteran or service member navigating their transition. Your review and rating help inspire more veterans with stories like Mark's.

And as always: Go do the thing. Make that decision. Find your next mission.