April 15, 2025
MILCOM Founders Podcast – Episode 8: From Fighter Pilot to Storytelling Expert with Dan Manning
Join host Rod Loges as he speaks with Dan Manning, a former Air Force fighter pilot and military diplomat who now runs Build the Story where he helps founders craft powerful stories that connect with audiences. Dan shares his journey from flying A-10s to negotiating with Russian military officials in Syria, and how he found his niche helping entrepreneurs clearly communicate their vision.
In this episode:
- Dan’s transition from 25-year Air Force veteran to entrepreneur
- How negotiating with Russians in Syria taught him the power of shared understanding
- The pivotal moment when Dan discovered his talent for helping founders tell their stories
- Why storytelling is crucial for founders seeking investment, customers, and team members
- How one client turned a $50 investment in storytelling help into a $10,000 check
Key takeaways:
- Military experience provides invaluable adaptability when entering unfamiliar business situations
- Knowing when to pivot your business model is critical for entrepreneurs
- The power of going deeper in conversations to build authentic connections
- Why “firing” clients who drain your energy is sometimes necessary for growth
- Stories aren’t trophies but gifts that allow others to learn from your experience
Guest: Dan Manning, Founder of Build the Story, 25-year US Air Force veteran (Fighter Pilot and Military Diplomat)
- LinkedIn: Connect with Dan on LinkedIn
- Business Website: Build the Story
Dan Manning spent 25 years in the US Air Force, first as a fighter pilot flying the A-10 and later as a military diplomat. During his final assignment, he led operational negotiations with Russian forces in Syria and managed the hotline between US and Russian military headquarters.
After retiring in 2019, Dan founded Build the Story, where he helps entrepreneurs, executives, and professionals craft compelling narratives that clarify their message and connect with their audience.
To date, he has helped create over 800 stories that have unlocked opportunities for his clients, from securing investments to landing fellowships and winning major contracts.
Looking ahead: Dan plans to create a community specifically for “story stage” founders—entrepreneurs at the very early stage where their story is their most valuable asset for attracting investment, sales, and team members.
The MILCOM Founders Podcast champions and celebrates military community business owners. Each episode brings practical insights and lessons learned from successful veteran entrepreneurs.
Sponsored by: One Degree Financial www.onedegreefinancial.com
Want to support veteran entrepreneurs? Learn about the Dick Loges Veteran Entrepreneur Scholarship Fund at https://www.milcomfounders.com/scholarship/