Veteran Made with Carey Kight

Reinventing Film Noir: How an Army Veteran Modernized a Classic Genre

In episode 159, I spoke with Ryan Curtis, an Army veteran and the writer, director, and producer of Hollywood Grit. Ryan shares his journey from growing up in a working-class town outside Boston, serving in the Army during the height of the Global War on Terror, and ultimately finding his calling as a storyteller and director. We dive into his path of learning the movie business the hard way — by doing every job on set so that when the time came to direct, he had the tools, taste, and leadership skills needed to succeed. This episode highlights how veteran discipline, adaptability, and problem-solving translate perfectly into the high-pressure world of film production.

We also talk about how Ryan leveraged his military-honed leadership style to build a crew, direct actors, and bring together a creative team capable of producing a full-length Hollywood movie against massive odds, including the pandemic, strikes, funding obstacles, and industry politics. Ryan not only directed and co-wrote Hollywood Grit, a modern neo-noir film set in a jazz club, but he also employed over 50 veterans on set, using his platform to create opportunities for other veterans. We discuss the role of Veterans in Media and Entertainment (VME) in connecting veterans to meaningful work in the movie business and why saying yes to failure is the secret to growth.

In this episode:

•Post-9/11 deployments

•Military to civilian transition and creative career shift

•Importance of learning every role on a film set to build experience

•Veteran skills (leadership, adaptability) powering film production

•Journey to directing and co-writing “Hollywood Grit”

•Overcoming pandemic, strikes, and funding woes in independent film production

•Hiring other veterans

•Value of teamwork, collaboration, and the development of artistic taste

•Veterans in Media and Entertainment (VME) as industry gateway

Episode Sponsors:

• VM Merch
• Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order.
• True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order.

Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9.

SOCIALS:

https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/

https://www.instagram.com/ryan32

https://www.instagram.com/hollywoodgritfilm/

From Netflix to Disney: How an Army Veteran Became an Industry Veteran

In episode 158, we pick up where we left off with Daril Fannin, founder of KINO — the highs and lows of Hollywood, lessons learned from working with icons like Jimmy Kimmel and Matt Damon, and navigating the collapse of promising projects. Daril opens up about personal rock bottom moments, the resilience built in military service, and how those skills power success in the entertainment industry.

This episode breaks down the realities of creative constraints versus total freedom, as Daril shares insights on moving from indie projects to studio environments like Netflix and ABC with practical advice on collaborative writing, pitching ideas, reworking comedy for network TV, and tackling studio notes with humility.

We also spotlight Daril’s latest venture — tech innovations to combat piracy and empower filmmakers with his secure, interactive platform for feedback, review, and global film festival experiences. Discover how the transition from military to creative entrepreneur shapes leadership and how veterans’ unique skills drive scalable businesses in creative fields.

In this episode:

•Navigating Hollywood after the military

•Creative constraints in TV and advertising

•Collaborating with legends like Jimmy Kimmel and Bruce Campbell

•Authentic character development and universal storytelling

•Tackling film industry challenges—piracy, indie finance, and distribution windows

•Building, scaling, and leading organizations with military principles

•Tech solutions for modern filmmakers, featuring Streamkey

Episode Sponsors:

• VM Merch
• Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order.
• True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order.

Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9.

SOCIALS:

https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/

http://x.com/veteranmade.ck

https://www.instagram.com/darilfannin/

https://www.instagram.com/kinomakesmovies/

https://x.com/kinomakesmovies

From a Cult to the Army to Hollywood: How an Army Veteran Landed a Netflix Show in Film School

In episode 157, I sit down with Daril Fannin — Army veteran, award-winning screenwriter, producer, and the founder of KINO — for a raw, energetic conversation about his path from military life to Hollywood and the power of authentic human interaction.

We dive deep into Daril’s upbringing in a fundamentalist Pentecostal cult, his eye-opening introduction to the world of movies, and how storytelling literally changed the course of his life. Daril’s journey from combat medic to making deals with A-list celebrities in the entertainment industry demonstrates exactly what’s possible when we choose to connect with others on a human level to build genuine relationships.

We don’t sugarcoat the grind or the realities of transitioning from the military to an industry as ruthless as entertainment. Authenticity isn’t just a buzzword, it’s a real way of being and a real strategy for building a fulfilling, sustainable career. Cinema is more than escape; it’s communal, foundational, and instructive. It shapes the very way we see the world. Through Daril’s story, we break down the myth that success in Hollywood is about who you know or luck — it’s about being deliberate with your relationships, relentless in your pursuit, and refusing to settle for transactional exchanges when you can build meaningful human connection instead.

Episode Sponsors:

• VM Merch
• Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order.
• True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order.

Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9.

SOCIALS:

https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/

http://x.com/veteranmade.ck

https://www.instagram.com/darilfannin/

https://www.instagram.com/kinomakesmovies/

https://x.com/kinomakesmovies

Make Jeans in America Again: Patriot Jean Co's Mission to Redefine Modern Apparel

In episode 156, I dive deep with Patrick Mate, founder of Patriot Jean Co., exploring what it truly means to be a veteran entrepreneur committed to leadership and building a small business rooted in American values. Patrick shares his journey from military service to civilian life, emphasizing the challenges and rewards of the military to civilian transition and how those skillsets translate to entrepreneurship. Our conversation tackles the realities of sustainability and conservation in the apparel industry, with Patrick outlining his unwavering commitment to a 100% clean American supply chain. We get into the nitty gritty of how U.S.-based manufacturing isn’t just a buzzword — it’s an ethical obligation that strengthens local communities and sets a new environmental standard for what it means to buy American.

We don’t pull punches here: every American consumer and every producer has a direct stake in revitalizing our own supply chain. Supporting veteran-owned businesses like Patriot Jean Co. isn’t just patriotic — it’s a smart economic move that multiplies jobs and brings resilience to our communities. The environmental impact is real, and so are the ripple effects. American jobs mean stronger schools, first responders, and real estate sectors right here at home. Every purchase is a vote for American values. When we build a coalition between conscious consumers and passionate producers, we create a force for good that goes far beyond denim. Our choices matter — not just for our closets but for the future of American industry and the environment.

Episode Sponsors:

• VM Merch
• Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order.
• True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order.

Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9.

SOCIALS:

https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/

http://x.com/veteranmade.ck

https://www.instagram.com/patriotjeanco/

https://x.com/PatriotJeanCo

 

From Tactical to Strategic: Leveraging Military Experience in the Civilian Workforce

In episode 155, I sit down with Rich Comitz, Chief Operating Officer at American Corporate Partners, to have a candid discussion about the realities of the transition from work in the military to work as a civilian.

We explore how making the leap from military service to corporate business environments demands more than just a polished resume — it requires leadership, self-advocacy, and an unrelenting drive to seek mentorship. Rich breaks down how ACP’s year-long mentoring program arms veterans and military spouses with the tools, insights, and authentic relationships needed to translate unique military experiences directly for corporate hiring managers. We dive deep into why veterans must take full ownership of their transition by learning how to market themselves based on their real interests, strengths, and lived experience and not simply rely on a generic “military” brand or expecting someone else to decode their value.

If you’re a veteran hungry for a meaningful business career, this episode is a no-nonsense call to action: it’s on you to get aggressively curious, seek mentorship outside your comfort zone, and do the heavy lifting to articulate what makes you a compelling asset in corporate America. I urge every transitioning service member to remember: the corporate world owes you nothing. It’s your responsibility to bridge the gap. By embracing honest, ongoing mentorship and relentlessly translating your leadership abilities, adaptability, and mission-driven mindset into clear, relevant stories for hiring managers, you will open doors and accelerate your journey beyond underemployment. Don’t wait for opportunity... engineer it through proactive relationship-building and authentic self-advocacy.

Episode Sponsors:

• VM Merch
• Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order.
• True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order.

Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9.

SOCIALS:

https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/

http://x.com/veteranmade.ck

https://www.instagram.com/acpvets/

https://x.com/acpvets

From Collecting Intel to Brewing Coffee: How an Army Veteran Fosters Meaning Through Business

In episode 154, I sit down with Carl Churchill, co-founder of Alpha Coffee and an inspiring veteran entrepreneur, to unpack the realities of leadership, small business ownership, and the transition from the military to civilian life. We dive deep into Carl’s dynamic journey from serving as a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army to building Alpha Coffee from scratch with his wife, leaning on their firsthand experiences and authentic passions. We don’t sugarcoat the pressures — this is a direct conversation on why it’s so important to build the kind of business that truly fits your vision, lifestyle, and values as a veteran transitioning into entrepreneurship. Carl’s story is proof that rejecting the urge to chase someone else’s definition of success is the ultimate power move for any small business owner or aspiring leader.

We get specific about the craft of coffee as more than just a product. It’s about community, connection, and making a deeper impact. Carl breaks down how Alpha Coffee’s entire philosophy revolves around quality beans, intentional roasting, giving back, and fostering meaningful relationships — within the business, among employees, and out in the local community. We dig into how coffee, at its best, becomes a conduit for bringing people together, sparking conversations, and reminding us what real camaraderie looks like after the military.

If you’re a veteran considering entrepreneurship, or someone determined to make your leadership count in small business, this episode is your unapologetic blueprint for building authentically and serving boldly.

Episode Sponsors:

• VM Merch
• Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order.
• True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order.

Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9.

SOCIALS:

https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/

http://x.com/veteranmade.ck

https://www.instagram.com/alpha.coffee/

https://x.com/thealphacoffee

From the Battlefield to the Archery Range: How a TAC-P Veteran Builds Community Through Business

In episode 153, I sat down (again) with my friend, Dan Horgan, USAF TAC-P veteran and founder of Arrow and Honor Co., to talk about what it really takes to build a community-driven business from scratch with our own resources. We talked about how the only thing that keeps us moving forward is the network we build through genuine honesty and real relationships with other human beings.

Arrow and Honor Co. isn’t just about selling t-shirts or archery gear; it’s about forging a tribe where every handshake, every story, every honest conversation matters more than any marketing funnel or digital ad spend. We dove into the reality that creative services and marketing only work when we’re brutally transparent about our challenges, ourr wins, and our failures because that’s what attracts real partners and lifelong friends, not just customers.

I pushed Dan — and myself — to get specific about how community isn’t some abstract buzzword. It is the product. It’s built by showing up, being vulnerable, and leveraging every authentic connection we’ve made, whether it’s a vendor, a client, or a fellow veteran. We talked about the necessity of owning our story, sharing it honestly, and refusing to hide behind corporate polish.

The truth is, business is personal, and the only way to scale anything meaningful is by being aggressively open, direct, and unafraid to ask for help or admit what we don’t know.

Use code: veteranmade10 for 10% a purchase at Arrow and Honor Co.

Episode Sponsors:

• VM Merch
• Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order.
• True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order.

Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9.

SOCIALS:

https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/

http://x.com/veteranmade.ck

https://www.instagram.com/dan_horgan_/

https://www.instagram.com/arrowandhonor.co/

All of Your Friends are Imaginary w/ Gary Stevens

Creativity is not a gentle muse that visits the idle; it’s a relentless force that demands your full engagement, discipline, and honesty. In episode 152, Gary Stevens strips away the romantic myths surrounding creative work and expose its true nature: ideas are raw materials mined from the grind of lived experience, relentless questioning, and the courage to confront failure head-on.

Stevens, a visual artist and the author of All of Your Friends are Imaginary, reveals that creativity flows from the friction of real-world challenges and that the spark of an idea is only the beginning. The real test is in execution: the willingness to distill complex insights into their core components, to pare down the noise, and to shape raw intuition into something others can learn from and use.

The conversation is a masterclass in creative rigor. Stevens describes his process of ruthlessly editing his work, soliciting brutally honest feedback across industries and generations, and refusing to let past failures die unused — salvaging frameworks and lessons from abandoned projects and transforming them into new successes. We emphasize that the work of creativity is not just about having ideas, but about refining them through iteration, feedback, and the humility to recognize what we don’t know. We argue that true creative value comes from making your insights accessible and actionable for others, using our own hard-won lessons as blueprints and warnings. If we want to create work that matters, we must be willing to thicken both our skill and our skin, distill our experience down to their essence, and share it with clarity and conviction.

No shortcuts, no excuses, just relentless execution.

Episode Sponsors:

• VM Merch
• Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order.
• True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order.

Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9.

SOCIALS:

https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/

http://x.com/veteranmade.ck

https://www.instagram.com/gary_stevens_art/

sometimes i go away w/ Steve Callahan | Author at Dead Reckoning Collective

Episode 151 with Steve Callahan, author of sometimes I go away, Dead Reckoning Collective’s latest collection of poetry is a relentless exploration of creativity — not as a gentle muse that occasionally visits, but as a force that demands engagement, discipline, and honest labor.

The conversation explores how ideas arrive, asserting that creativity is a process of dictation and translation: ideas may flash into the mind from mysterious, — even mystical sources — but it is the maker’s responsibility to wrestle them onto the page, to shape and refine them through persistent work. We dissect the mechanics of creativity, drawing parallels between poetry, film, and military service, and emphasizing that the act of making — whether it’s a poem, a screenplay, or a new life after service — requires not just inspiration but the courage to execute, to risk failure, and to keep pushing until the work stands on its own legs.

We challenge listeners to consider the transcendentals — goodness, truth, and beauty — as the pillars that must anchor any creative act. Art is not just self-expression but a responsibility: to communicate with clarity, to wrestle honestly with one’s own moral injuries, and to offer the audience something that is not only aesthetically compelling but ethically resonant. Through candid discussion of military transition, moral injury, and the ongoing challenge of contextualizing painful experiences, the episode insists that our duty as artists is to bridge the gap between the ineffable and the tangible, to translate private wounds into universal language, and to do so with integrity, humility, and a relentless commitment to the good, the true, and the beautiful.

Episode Sponsors:

• VM Merch
• Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order.
• True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order.

Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9.

SOCIALS:

https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/

http://x.com/veteranmade.ck

https://www.instagram.com/uneven_steven03/

https://www.instagram.com/deadreckoningcollective/

Don't Consume, Contribute w/ JC Glick | CEO of The Commit Foundation

Too many veterans make the mistake of dragging every military habit, mindset, and experience into civilian life, expecting the world to adapt to them. That’s unrealistic, and it leads to frustration and irrelevance. The hard truth is, you must aggressively shed the skills and attitudes that no longer serve you as a citizen. Stop clinging to the notion that your past rank entitles you to anything now. Instead, ruthlessly identify which of your skills and experiences — leadership, adaptability, problem-solving, teamwork — are truly valuable and relevant to new operating environment. Translate your experience into language and actions that matter in your workplace, your community, and your family. Don’t expect others to understand or care about your service unless you show them its value through meaningful contribution, not nostalgia or entitlement.

Here’s the line in the sand: civilians consume; citizens contribute. You are not here to take up space, reminisce about the “good old days,” or demand respect for what you did. We are here to make the world around us better. If you want your next chapter to be as meaningful as your service, you must transform, not just transition.

Episode Sponsors:

• VM Merch
• Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order.
• True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order.

Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9.

SOCIALS:

https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/

http://x.com/veteranmade.ck

https://www.instagram.com/jc_glick31/

https://www.instagram.com/thecommitfoundation/

https://x.com/jc_glick

https://x.com/COMMIT2Vets