Ep. 325 | From Service to Startup: Maxine Reyes Empowers Veterans Through Entrepreneurship

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred sits down with Maxine Reyes, veteran entrepreneur and founder of With Courage and Grace. Recorded live at the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitches, this conversation explores Maxine’s inspiring transition from 22 years of military service in the Air Force and Army to launching a brand that uplifts and motivates others, especially women veterans.

Maxine discusses her entrepreneurial journey and the creation of ventures like Maxine Reyes Live, focused on motivational speaking and event hosting, and Happily Joined, a joint initiative with her husband supporting military couples. She emphasizes the value of utilizing resources such as Veterans Florida and Action Zone, offers candid insight into building a personal brand, and shares the challenges and rewards of turning motivation into a business. Her story is a testament to the power of purpose, resilience, and community in the world of veteran entrepreneurship.

This podcast episode was recorded live at the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitches hosted at the Hilton Tampa Airport Westshore. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital. 

 

Connect with Our Guest:

https://www.maxinereyes.com | https://www.couragegrace.org/