Many veterans struggle to find their place in a world different from the one in active service. However, many skills learned on the military base are valuable and transferable to civilian life. For sales, your military background may even serve you better than someone with a more traditional career trajectory.
Today we are joined by Navy Veteran, Alex Archawski, whose impressive business acumen led to him founding two companies—Greater Philadelphia Veterans Network and Veteran Shark Tank—including being the President of Sales Evolution.
We begin with Alex’s work and home life before learning about the three titles he currently holds and what each role entails. Then, we uncover important sales facts that every business leader needs to know, why there’s a common disconnect between sales and revenue in the industry, skills that easily transfer from military to business, and the importance of teaching the youth about leadership from a young age.
To end, Alex describes how he can maintain consistent levels of high performance, why his life is centered on helping others, and he lays down a (very doable) challenge for all veterans who want to improve their lives.
Key Points From This Episode:
• The ins and outs of the Veteran Shark Tank and the Greater Philadelphia Veterans Network.
• Why a disconnect between sales and revenue is a common industry occurrence.
• Transferable skills that one should lean on when transitioning from the Military to sales.
• Sales tips and tricks to keep in your locker.
Quotes:
“[The Greater Philadelphia Veterans Network] is really about empowering the community to work collectively together in different ways.” — Alex Archawski
“Everybody likes to make more money; I would 100% agree with you. But philosophically, I run into people that are not willing to make the effort.” — Alex Archawski
“Your signature moment [in sales] is influencing somebody to change the way they do things for the better of their business. That’s powerful.” — Alex Archawski
“That’s my motto, ‘So others may live.’ When people say, ‘What do you do for a living?’ I’m always like, ‘I’m a glorified facilitator.’” — Alex Archawski
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
What is Leadership Blueprints?
Leadership Blueprints is a podcast dedicated to helping leaders align teams, navigate chaos, and accomplish the mission. Hosted by BJ Kraemer—West Point graduate, combat veteran, and President & CEO of MCFA—this show dives into the principles, stories, and strategies behind effective leadership.
With a background in military service and experience leading teams in business, infrastructure, and complex projects, BJ understands that success comes down to execution, adaptability, and leading people well. Through in-depth interviews with accomplished leaders across business, sports, the military, and beyond, Leadership Blueprints will help you bring your vision to reality on projects that shape communities and industries.
Whether you’re leading in the boardroom, on the field, in the military, or within your own organization, this podcast is designed to provide the tools and mindset needed to lead with clarity, resilience, and purpose. Subscribe now and start building your Leadership Blueprint.