From Marine Corps to Building a Scalable Business with Grit with Dominick Blue

In this episode of the M&A Launchpad Podcast, hosts Feras Moussa and Casey Minshew are joined by Dominick Blue, a former Marine turned software engineer and acquisition entrepreneur. Dominick shares his inspiring journey—launching Nostra Group, buying two businesses in under a year, and building an AI company to automate operations in home services. He opens up about transitioning from a military background to entrepreneurship, the importance of having a thesis during your search, how he structured his deals, the pitfalls of cash flow management post-close, and how leadership and grit are essential for success.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or building a holding company, Dominick’s story offers actionable advice, strategy, and serious motivation.

In this podcast episode, we discuss:

· Dominick's path from the Marine Corps to launching Nostra Group

· Lessons from acquiring two companies in 2024 (including HVAC and air duct cleaning businesses)

· How to develop an effective acquisition thesis

· The realities of SDE modeling and cash flow post-close

· Navigating licensing and staffing challenges

· How military leadership skills translate into business operations

· The power of grit and persistence in entrepreneurial success

· Using AI to build digital workforces and streamline operations

· Why automation should be prioritized in lower-middle-market businesses

· Personal reflections on balancing family, business, and growth

Guest Contact Info:

· LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/Dominickblue/

· Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/Dominick_blue

· Email: Dominick@nostragroup.com

· Company: https://www.nostragroup.com

Additional Resources:

Sponsored by O’Connell Advisory Group – Work with a trusted Quality of Earnings and Financial Diligence partner who focuses solely on business acquisitions. Visit: https://www.oconnelladvisorygroup.com

Attend the M&A Launchpad Conference – May 3rd in Houston. Premier event for entrepreneurs, investors, and dealmakers in the lower-middle market. Get your ticket at https://www.malaunchpad.com and use code LAUNCH for $200 off.

M&A Launchpad Hosts Contact – info@equitylaunchpad.com

Explore more at: https://www.equity-launchpad.com

About The M&A Launchpad:   

The M&A Launchpad provides insights into acquiring, investing in, and selling profitable businesses in the lower to middle market. Whether you are a business owner, investor, or aspiring entrepreneur,  we will provide you with the knowledge, guidance, and capital to navigate the world of mergers and acquisitions.

The M&A Launchpad presents a series of weekly podcast episodes and hosts an annual M&A Launchpad Conference tailored to the M&A community.

Connect with M&A Launchpad: 

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🎧 Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/m-a-launchpad/id1740382586
🎟️ Attend Upcoming M&A Launchpad Conference: http://malaunchpad.com/