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Jasmine Paul, inspired by a family history of service members and entrepreneurs, has long been driven to create solutions that address others’ problems. However, when facing her own challenges, she initially hesitated to seek help.
Her breakthrough came when she transformed her struggles into a business and again when she discovered DAV Patriot Boot Camp, a 3-day, in-person program that connects military affiliated entrepreneurs with free education, mentoring and a supportive community.
Paul’s journey to entrepreneurship began during her senior year of college when she was living out of her car and sleeping on friends’ couches. After commissioning into the Air Force, she realized she needed to get her finances under control. She dedicated herself to learning about money management and eventually became a finance officer, helping her fellow service members pay off more than $350,000 in debt for approximately 110 people.
“Everyone kept saying, ‘I wish I learned about money as a kid,’” Paul said. This inspired her to create The Wealth Playground, a youth financial education company offering books and curricula she authored, alongside virtual and in-person programs. She now works with nonprofits, schools and organizations to reach thousands of children.
Despite her success, Paul often felt isolated as an entrepreneur. The mentorship and camaraderie she found at DAV Patriot Boot Camp helped reignite her confidence. She credits the program’s personalized support with giving her a much-needed boost.
“Patriot Boot Camp gave me that hype I needed,” she said.
Since participating, Paul has won first place in her cohort’s pitch competition and went on to compete at the DAV national convention in Phoenix, Ariz., where she showcased her work. Her efforts have led to the addition of new products, recognition from the American Library Association, graduation from a Goldman Sachs accelerator, and over $45,000 in winnings and grants. She’s also forging partnerships with organizations like the Taco Bell Foundation.
Reflecting on her journey, Paul emphasized hope for others facing adversity. After more than a decade of military service and overcoming financial hardships, she wants fellow Veterans to know they’re not alone.
“There’s life after the military,” she said. “There are people who are going to support you and welcome you. There are programs like DAV.”
DAV Patriot Boot Camp
The next DAV Patriot Boot Camp is scheduled for June 10-12, 2026, in Salt Lake City. Applications are open at patriotbootcamp.org and will close once all seats are filled or by May 18, whichever comes first. Participants will have the chance to compete in a pitch contest with $10,000 in no-obligation funding prizes.
For more information about DAV Patriot Boot Camp, visit patriotbootcamp.org.
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Overall trust in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has reached an all-time high. In the first quarter of fiscal year 2026, 82% of Veterans who used VA services — including health care, benefits, burials and memorials — reported that they trust VA to fulfill the nation’s commitment to them.
Who could I talk to in the Chicago area, a Veteran like me, who can give me some ideas about promoting some of the wood products I’ve created? I believe these are excellent ideas, but I don’t seem to be getting any traction/sales right now.
You know Veterans have struggled for years, decades because of lack of i formation and resources and Corporate Capture destroying this country. Not all veterans have the ability and or resources to just have mobility and go anywhere especially to physical locations out of state let alone over an hour away. veterans can’t even get some healthcare needs meet because of all the red tape. Veterans and Americans Struggle every day because the inefficiency and selfishness of our government! Civil Revelation of Reforms! It’s time.
I am proud to be a Veteran and I am happy that the VA is so active.
I don’t know what time it’s costing to plan for maintenance and planning my LLC.
Personal experience story about Jasmine Paul was presumably meant to introduce readers to Patriot Boot Camp. Article focused so much on her that I was left without any clear idea of what Patriot Boot Camp is.
Jeffery Bolling 13 year Veteran Owner of Jeffery B Jewelers for 17 years.
Breaking a clothing line and would like advice and/or funds.
I’m wanting to become an entrepreneur
I’d be happy to speak to you. I also hows classes weekly on Tactical Transition, Build, Buy or Own a business, as well as Personal and Business Finance. DAV is fantastic, if the top you are looking for falls in my classes feel free to join off our site. Its all free. Tommy Retired First Sergeant
I love this but I don’t see where to apply.
Hello, how do we sign up for this Boot Camp for entrepreneur mentorship?
Carman in the article there is a Apply Now Buttom.
I want to speak with an advisor and business.
I’d be happy to speak to you. I also hows classes weekly on Tactical Transition, Build, Buy or Own a business, as well as Personal and Business Finance. DAV is fantastic, if the top you are looking for falls in my classes feel free to join off our site. Its all free. Tommy Retired First Sergeant
I’m in the life insurance industry.
AWESOME STORY. Very Inspirational. I am excited about the prospects of helping Veterans and retired veterans obtain the BEST possible Health coverages.