A Veteran Entrepreneur Shares Insights on Building a Business from the Ground Up
In October 2022, I had the honor of being interviewed on Amazon’s Seller Stories Podcast, Episode 7 – “How to Start a Business.” This episode featured three diverse entrepreneurs, each with a unique journey, challenges, and lessons on how to build a successful business on Amazon’s marketplace.
As one of only a handful of sellers highlighted nationwide, I shared my perspective as a Marine Corps veteran, manufacturer, and small business leader navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship.
Lessons from Amazon Seller Stories
The podcast brought together three inspiring founders:
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Michael Schmiedicke of Strong Oaks Woodshop, who turned woodworking into a thriving Amazon Handmade business.
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Jamelah Tucker of EasyPeasie, who co-founded a family-owned business to help parents introduce vegetables to picky eaters.
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Sean Brownlee, founder and entrepreneur, who discussed manufacturing, scaling, and keeping a family-centered business thriving.
My Perspective: Scaling with Amazon
When asked about my journey, I explained that one of the fastest ways to build something scalable was to leverage Amazon’s Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) model. By partnering with Amazon’s logistics infrastructure, we could expand quickly while maintaining sustainability.
“I did a number of case studies on how to start and grow a business, and I realized the fastest, easiest way was to use Amazon’s model and services like Fulfillment by Amazon to scale something sustainable.” – Sean Brownlee
I also highlighted the importance of inventory management and supply chain resilience, especially during the holiday season when demand peaks:
“We are focused on managing inventory, ensuring fulfillment is consistent, and keeping supply chains strong so that customers’ needs are met whether it’s last-minute or months in advance.” – Sean Brownlee
Building a Family-Centered Business
For me, entrepreneurship is not only about growth and profit, it’s about people. At our facility, family connections are part of our culture. Spouses, parents and children, even siblings, often work side by side. This sense of shared purpose has created a stable, long-term team that feels more like a family than a workplace.
“We’ve built an environment where family members work together, commute together, and support one another. That sense of family is what keeps us strong.” – Sean Brownlee
Inspiration from Service
At the end of the interview, I reflected on what drives me every day. My inspiration comes from my brothers and sisters in the armed forces, those who have served and those who gave the ultimate sacrifice. Everything I do as an entrepreneur is grounded in honoring their memory and living a life of purpose.
“My inspiration comes from my brothers and sisters in arms. What I do every day is in their honor, to live a rich and fulfilling life of service.” – Sean Brownlee
Watch the Interview
Listen to the Full Episode
You can listen to my full interview and the stories of Michael and Jamelah on the Amazon Seller Stories Podcast:
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Apple Podcasts
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Spotify
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Amazon Music
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Or wherever you get your podcasts