Misfit Entrepreneur March 2024 - 397: The Warrior's Resilience: Triumph Over Trauma Through Entrepreneurship with Kelsi Sheren

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Dave Lukas Chats with Kelsi Sheren

397: The Warrior's Resilience: Triumph Over Trauma Through Entrepreneurship with Kelsi Sheren

This week’s Misfit Entrepreneur is Kelsi Sheren. Kelsi is an entrepreneur, author, podcast, host, coach and speaker. Even more importantly Kelsi is a decorated veteran who served on the front lines in Afghanistan.

She founded Brass and Unity, a boutique jewelry and apparel brand that incorporates elements of brass from weaponry into its products. The company donates 20% of net profits to help rehabilitate and soldiers and first responders. Kelsi’s story and companies have been featured everywhere from ELLE, Fashion Magazine, Forbes, GMA, the Today Show, Fox, CNN, and even ELLEN.

Kelsi’s story is inspiring not just to those who learn of it, but for her as overcoming her own challenges after years of war gave her the strength and mission to help veterans overcome the side effect of war such as PTSD, homelessness, and preventing suicide. And she is fierce in her efforts.

I asked her to come on to share her journey, entrepreneur lessons learned, and how to overcome the biggest challenges that life brings your way.

https://www.kelsisheren.com/

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Show Notes

Kelsi grew up competing at the highest level in Tai Kwan Do. She quit college at 18 and joined the army, feeling compelled to fight in the war. She was deployed to Afghanistan as an M777 howitzer gunner and also served as a female searcher for the British military. During her time at war, she experienced traumatic events but decided not to let them define her – but they ultimately did affect her. She was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injury (TBI) but refused to let labels dictate her future. She overcame the challenges with support networks, including plant medicine and finding purpose.

What is it that people, the average listener, somebody watching this needs to understand about the veteran community?"

There is a misconception that veterans are broken individuals in need of fixing.
Veterans are strong and resilient people.
It is important though for us to provide space and support for veterans to heal and find purpose.
It is also important to have community involvement and understanding in aiding veterans' transitions.

What are things that people can do that make a difference to help veterans in their everyday efforts? What are the things that we should be thinking about and doing?"

Non-military individuals need to participate in supporting veterans.
Reach out to nonprofits and offer your expertise, volunteering, or lending a listening ear.
Be mindful of how your actions and interactions can positively impact veterans' lives.

How do you view critical thinking in today's society, particularly within the realm of entrepreneurship?

Critical thinking is increasingly rare in our instant society.
Entrepreneurs possess the unique ability to think differently and innovate.
Society's inclination towards instant gratification often hinders deep critical thinking.

How do you believe fear impacts individuals in breaking free from societal systems, and how can entrepreneurs confront this fear?

Fear often prevents individuals from challenging societal systems.
Entrepreneurs must confront fear head-on to innovate and succeed.
Grit is essential for overcoming fear and achieving entrepreneurial goals.

Could you share a personal experience where grit played a significant role in overcoming obstacles, particularly during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic?

During the pandemic, like a lot of entrepreneurs, Kelsi found herself facing the loss of her business overnight due to lockdowns,
She relied on grit to pivot and survive.
She took radical action, obtaining a medical license to manufacture masks for hospitals.
Despite the adversity, she kept going and adapted her business model to ensure survival.

What strategies have you employed to build your brand and business, and what advice would you offer to fellow entrepreneurs seeking success?

Strategic networking and bold actions have been key in building her brand.
Kelsi talks about the importance of being present in influential spaces and making bold moves.
Entrepreneurs should prioritize self-awareness and strategic decision-making to succeed in today's competitive landscape.

Can you share more detail on the importance of self-awareness and authenticity in achieving personal and professional success?

Most people struggle because they lack self-awareness and clarity about their desires.
Understanding oneself, including principles and values, is crucial for growth and success.
Authenticity eliminates impostor syndrome and self-doubt, allowing individuals to embrace their uniqueness confidently.

What are some valuable lessons you've learned from your personal experiences, such as competing in Taekwondo, and how have they influenced your entrepreneurial journey?

Taekwondo taught her accountability and self-reliance from a young age.
We need to embrace out uniqueness and shine brightly despite societal expectations.
Effective leadership involves guiding others through challenges and discomfort, fostering growth and resilience.

Could you shed some light on significant socio-political developments in Canada, and what advice do you have for Canadian business owners navigating these challenges?

Utilize VPN services to circumvent content restrictions and reach international audiences.
Collaborate with like-minded individuals and organizations to advocate for change and protect fundamental rights.
Embrace resilience and adaptability in driving positive societal change and fostering innovation.

Best Quote

There is a misconception that veterans are broken individuals in need of fixing. We're not.

Limit Exposure to Mainstream Media: Disconnect from toxic news sources to alleviate fear and promote mental well-being.

Prioritize Personal Health and Habits: Cultivate mindful habits, including diet, exercise, and sleep, to optimize physical and mental wellness.

Explore Holistic Health Solutions: Evaluate reliance on pharmaceutical interventions and consider alternative approaches, such as holistic or functional medicine, for long-term well-being and healing.

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