Service Academy Business Mastermind

Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/ [https://www.academyfund.com/] Want to join us in San Antonio, TX on June 11th & 12th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events [https://www.10xvets.com/events] ____ Zachary Guerra is a powerful force in storytelling, making the leap from Naval Aviator flying S-3B Vikings to directing multi-million-dollar productions for some of the world’s biggest brands. Over the past decade, Zachary has directed and produced more than 25 high-impact campaigns for global brands such as Apple and ESPN, managing more than $34 million in production budgets. As a Director, Writer, and Producer, Zachary has written 15+ screenplays and directed over 20 commercials, all while actively developing feature films with both major studios and independent teams. Beyond his commercial success, Zachary is deeply invested in the next generation of creatives. He mentors aspiring filmmakers and imparts his knowledge of Editing, Cinematography, and Producing at esteemed institutions. His dedication to education reflects his belief in storytelling as a transformative tool. Zachary's approach to filmmaking is characterized by a relentless pursuit of compelling narratives and a commitment to excellence. Each project he undertakes is infused with a unique blend of strategic insight and creative vision, making him a distinctive voice in contemporary cinema. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Zachary about: * Post-Navy Pivot: After flying jets, Zachary turned to filmmaking to follow his creative drive. * Turning Points: He lost equipment and faced shutdowns but stayed focused on real, human stories. * Canon Shot: His new documentary that captures the croquet rivalry between Navy and St. John’s, spotlighting cultural gaps. The film reveals how two schools in the same town rarely engage with each other. * Real-World Impact: How his documentary helped spark new partnerships, with midshipmen now taking classes at St. John’s. Timestamps: * 00:31 Zach's Journey into Filmmaking * 01:55 Early Wins and Challenges * 03:36 The Concept of 'Dance for Your Dinner' * 09:52 The Making of 'Canon Shot' * 16:12 Surprising Discoveries and Reflections * 22:35 Current Status and Support Needed * 30:01 Conclusion and Contact Information   Connect with Zachary: * LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachary-guerra-usna2000/] * Contact Page [https://www.zacharyguerra.com/contact]   If you found value in today’s episode, don’t keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you’re a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we’d love for you to join our community and get started today.   Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show: * Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/service-academy-business-mastermind/id1233995120] * Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/3vhLcvE3Qng7TnrVfDH9tn] * Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Zachary for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA ’01

Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/ [https://www.academyfund.com/] Want to join us in San Antonio, TX on June 11th & 12th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events [https://www.10xvets.com/events] ____ Rob Pekarek is an Operations Research Analyst at Air Combat Command and a General Partner in multifamily real estate. On active duty, he serves on the staff of the four-star General commanding ACC, where he leads teams that solve operational challenges across the Air Force using tools like Python, Excel, and PowerPoint automation. His work has improved aircraft scheduling, streamlined data systems, and delivered practical solutions to commanders on base. Rob previously completed a fully funded research fellowship at Purdue University, where he modeled climate adaptation strategies and infrastructure investment. His work informed a $5 billion coastal protection plan for Louisiana and supported the Naval Academy’s Sea Level Rise action plan. Now active in real estate investing, Rob helped acquire a 24-unit apartment complex in 2024 and led investor outreach, raising over $500,000. He continues to manage investor communications and is passionate about building long-term value through data, real estate, and veteran collaboration. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Rob about:   * Real Estate at Full Speed: While on active duty, Rob became a general partner in two multifamily deals totaling over 50 units. * Helping First Pays Off: He earned his first GP role by offering free support and adding value to the team. * Lead Gen That Works: Rob uses content and clear qualifiers to attract the right investors. * His Three Pillars: He focuses on fitness, wealth building, and creating purpose through community. * Mindset for Growth: Rob believes in taking action, learning through failure, and building real relationships.   Timestamps: * 01:02 Guest Background and Early Career * 03:05 Real Estate Ventures and Side Hustles * 10:25 Lead Generation Strategies * 20:45 Three Pillars of a Successful Life   Connect with Rob: * LinkedIn [https://linktr.ee/robthepek] * LinkTree | Rob Pekarek [https://linktr.ee/robthepek?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=6265611f-c704-47b4-a3f2-c50457518fe8] If you found value in today’s episode, don’t keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you’re a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we’d love for you to join our community and get started today.   Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show: * Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/service-academy-business-mastermind/id1233995120] * Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/3vhLcvE3Qng7TnrVfDH9tn] * Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Rob for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA ’01

Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/ [https://www.academyfund.com/] Want to join us in San Antonio, TX on June 11th & 12th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events [https://www.10xvets.com/events] ____ Jason is the founder of John Galt Services, a Bali-based outsourcing company that connects businesses with high-performing, multilingual talent across Indonesia. With a focus on quality, training, and long-term impact, his team works in person from Bali to deliver reliable, professional support at global standards.  A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and former Navy Surface Warfare Officer, Jason has spent over two decades leading product development and building enterprise software systems for startups and major financial institutions. He previously founded a data systems firm that served clients like Invesco and Bridgewater Associates.  Today, he also serves as a lead developer and technical leader at VeteranCrowd. Fluent in Bahasa Indonesia and deeply embedded in the local community, Jason is passionate about creating meaningful opportunities through global collaboration. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Jason about:   * The Spark Behind John Galt Services: Bridging global opportunity with untapped talent in Indonesia. * What Sets It Apart: High-caliber, multilingual professionals trained and managed locally in Bali. * Jason’s Path: From Navy officer and software developer to founder building impact abroad. * Early Lessons: Navigating a competitive outsourcing market while prioritizing quality and purpose. * What’s Next: Growing one placement at a time toward full-service managed teams. Timestamps: * 00:13 Reflecting on the Past Four Years * 00:27 The End of Ring Knocker * 01:19 Introducing John Galt Services * 02:15 Discovering Indonesian Talent * 04:06 The Business Proposition * 08:37 The Start of a New Venture * 15:45 Recruitment and Skill Matching * 17:43 Goals and Future Plans * 19:06 Expanding Services and Competitive Landscape * 22:43 Journey to Indonesia and Life in Bali * 24:52 Creating Opportunities and Making a Difference * 26:36 Future Plans and Business Connections * 28:03 A Story of Barbecue and Cultural Fusion   Connect with Jason: * LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jscroft?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BTMhDDcOETL6om4sMOXjv0w%3D%3D]   If you found value in today’s episode, don’t keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you’re a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we’d love for you to join our community and get started today.   Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show: * Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/service-academy-business-mastermind/id1233995120] * Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/3vhLcvE3Qng7TnrVfDH9tn] * Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Jason for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA ’01

Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/ [https://www.academyfund.com/] Want to join us in San Antonio, TX on June 11th & 12th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events [https://www.10xvets.com/events] ____ Mario Cortizo is the Founder and President of Maerco Consulting, helping companies expand into Panama and Latin America through strategic market entry, partnerships, and business development support. A West Point graduate and seasoned entrepreneur, Mario combines disciplined leadership with a deep understanding of regional growth opportunities. His career highlights include leading business development for companies with over 200 million users, managing $2 billion infrastructure initiatives, and representing Panama in the 2022 Young Leaders of the Americas Entrepreneurship Program. At Maerco Consulting, Mario specializes in diagnosing challenges, identifying new markets, and building partnerships that drive long-term success. With multicultural experience and fluency in four languages, he is uniquely positioned to help companies navigate the Latin American landscape. Known for his hands-on leadership and commitment to innovation, Mario is focused on helping businesses expand, thrive, and create meaningful impact across borders. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Mario about: * West Point Legacy: Mario is the first Panamanian West Point grad since 1987, continuing his father's legacy. * Founder of MI Consulting: He helps U.S. companies enter the Panama and Latin America markets. * Strategic Panama Advantage: Panama offers tax incentives, U.S. dollar stability, and top-tier infrastructure to global businesses. * Clients from Startups to Multinationals: His firm supports companies ranging from early-stage brands to tech giants with 600M+ users. * Actively Seeking U.S. Partners: He's building the brand and welcomes referrals from businesses interested in expanding to Latin America. Timestamps: * 01:39 Journey to West Point * 03:41 Starting MI Consulting * 05:52 Why Panama is a Business Hub * 11:31 Future Goals and Vision Connect with Mario: * LinkedIn [https://pa.linkedin.com/in/mario-cortizo] * Email: mariocortizo@hotmail.com [mariocortizo@hotmail.com] If you found value in today’s episode, don’t keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you’re a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we’d love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show: * Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/service-academy-business-mastermind/id1233995120] * Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/3vhLcvE3Qng7TnrVfDH9tn] * Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Mario for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA ’01

Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/ [https://www.academyfund.com/] Want to join us in San Antonio, TX on June 11th & 12th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events [https://www.10xvets.com/events] ____ Chris Coughlan is the Founder and CEO of C Infinity Solutions, a digital consultancy helping companies turn big ideas into scalable, AI-powered products. A Naval Academy graduate and former intelligence officer, Chris blends military precision with business innovation to drive real results. After leadership roles at IBM, Wizeline, and Atrium, he launched C Infinity to rethink how businesses build technology — faster, smarter, and with fewer barriers. His team specializes in helping founders and enterprises bring new products to market, modernize operations, and scale with confidence. Known for his hands-on leadership and focus on execution, Chris is helping redefine what technology partnerships can achieve. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Chris about: * The Start of C Infinity Solutions: Combining military experience and business strategy to help companies build scalable digital products. * How They Stand Out: Speeding up product development by turning ideas into full engineering specs in just four hours. * Chris’s Path: From Navy leadership to IBM sales and strategy, then founding a digital consultancy focused on growth through technology. * Lessons Learned: Bridging the gap between business goals and tech execution, while using AI to streamline and scale. * What’s Next: Growing C Infinity’s client base, launching a SaaS product, and building a portfolio of tech-enabled companies. Timestamps: * 00:39 Chris's Journey from Military to Tech * 01:23 Overview of C Infinity Solutions * 02:28 Exciting Projects and Use Cases * 08:01 Team Composition and Skills * 11:25 Innovative AI Tools and Methodologies * 18:27 Future Goals and Vision * 22:56 Connecting with Founders and Veterans Connect with Chris: * LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/christophercoughlan] * Email: chris@cinfinitysolutions.com [chris@cinfinitysolutions.com]  If you found value in today’s episode, don’t keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you’re a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we’d love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show: * Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/service-academy-business-mastermind/id1233995120] * Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/3vhLcvE3Qng7TnrVfDH9tn] * Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Chris for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA ’01