Service Academy Business Mastermind Podcast

Dave Lam is a seasoned investor, veteran, and strategic operator focused on unlocking value in microcap and lower-middle market companies. A former U.S. Air Force contracting officer, he offers deep expertise on execution, strategy, and operational excellence.

As a Principal at Phalanx Partners, he helps lead independent sponsorship and advisory efforts for growing companies across multiple sectors. He is also a Managing Principal at Oakwood Legacy Partners, a private holding company investing in alternative assets including real estate, cryptocurrency, and private debt.

With a decade of experience managing complex vendor portfolios and leading operational strategy, Dave’s expertise spans procurement, underwriting, and portfolio management. His background includes work with the U.S. Air Force and Coast Guard, where he oversaw projects in medical services, construction, communications, and defense manufacturing.

Dave holds an MS in Finance from Boston College and an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. Whether advising founders or evaluating new investments, he brings a rigorous, data-driven approach to growth, risk management, and long-term value creation.

In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Dave about:

• From Military to Main Street: How Dave’s background as an Air Force contracting officer led him to pursue small business acquisitions.
• The PHX Playbook: A value-driven model where founders sell majority ownership but stay on to scale with strategic support.
• Smart Acquisition Strategy: Why clean financials, low owner dependency, and operational upside are essential for a successful deal.
• Opportunity in the Lower Market: Dave targets $1–3M EBITDA businesses where hands-on improvements can drive major returns.
• The Power of Relationships: Trusted veteran and referral networks are key to finding deals and aligning the right people for growth.

Timestamps:

• 00:41 Dave’s Background and Introduction
• 01:48 The Importance of Due Diligence
• 03:00 Introduction to Phalanx Partners
• 06:02 Opportunities in Business Acquisitions
• 14:19 Pitfalls in Business Acquisitions
• 18:27 Secrets to Finding Deal Flow
• 20:22 Building Your Professional Network
• 21:15 Strategic Referral Partners
• 23:20 Investment and Value Addition
• 27:28 Optimizing Small Businesses
• 33:15 Future Goals and Aspirations
• 38:00 Acquisitions and Exit Circle
• 39:50 Connecting and Contact Information

Connect with Dave:

• LinkedIn
• Email: [email protected]

If you found value in today’s episode, don’t keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you’re a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we’d love for you to join our community and get started today.

Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show:

• Apple Podcasts
• Spotify
• Leave us a 5-star review!

A special thank you to Dave for joining me this week. Until next time!

-Scott Mackes, USNA ’01

Joshua Emison is the founder of Tracer Franchising, where he helps individuals identify proven, scalable franchise opportunities tailored to their financial and lifestyle goals. With a background in business development and a sharp eye for operational models, he simplifies what’s often a crowded and confusing process in franchising. Josh works across industries to guide clients toward sustainable, long-term ownership—whether they’re exploring their first opportunity or expanding an existing portfolio. 

A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and former Marine Corps Infantry Officer, Josh approaches business ownership with the same focus and structure that defined his military career. He’s also the co-founder of Sans Bank, a fintech company using blockchain to make alternative investments more accessible through asset tokenization. Across both ventures, Josh is focused on helping others take ownership of their future through smart, strategic decisions.

In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Joshua about:

• Franchise Education: A clear process to help new owners understand the realities of franchising.

• Matching System: A detailed quiz and vetting method to pair candidates with the right franchises.

• Tippy Toes Model: A lean, mobile business chosen for its strong demand and trusted leadership.

• Startup vs. Franchise: Franchising offers structure and support that startups often lack.

• Owner Mindset: Success requires patience, realistic expectations, and long-term commitment.

Timestamps:

• 00:59 Josh's Background and Career Journey

• 02:29 Introduction to Tracer Franchising

• 03:06 The Franchising Process Explained

• 05:55 Selecting the Right Franchise

• 09:57 Funding Your Franchise

• 11:59 Negotiating Franchise Terms

• 14:51 Choosing Tippy Toes Dance Franchise

• 17:56 Comparing Franchisee Experience with Startups

• 18:36 The Challenges of Starting a Business from Scratch

• 19:25 The Benefits of Franchising

• 20:55 Sales Success Stories

• 24:24 Adapting the Business Model

• 26:35 Future Goals and Vision

• 30:33 Common Challenges in Franchising

Connect with Joshua:

• LinkedIn

• Email: [email protected] 

If you found value in today’s episode, don’t keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you’re a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we’d love for you to join our community and get started today.

Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show:

• Apple Podcasts

• Spotify

• Leave us a 5-star review!

A special thank you to Joshua for joining me this week. Until next time!

-Scott Mackes, USNA ’01

Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/

Want to join us in San Antonio, TX on June 11th & 12th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events

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Zachary Guerra is a powerful force in storytelling, making the leap from Naval Aviator flying S-3B Vikings to directing multi-million-dollar productions for some of the world’s biggest brands.

Over the past decade, Zachary has directed and produced more than 25 high-impact campaigns for global brands such as Apple and ESPN, managing more than $34 million in production budgets. As a Director, Writer, and Producer, Zachary has written 15+ screenplays and directed over 20 commercials, all while actively developing feature films with both major studios and independent teams.

Beyond his commercial success, Zachary is deeply invested in the next generation of creatives. He mentors aspiring filmmakers and imparts his knowledge of Editing, Cinematography, and Producing at esteemed institutions. His dedication to education reflects his belief in storytelling as a transformative tool.

Zachary's approach to filmmaking is characterized by a relentless pursuit of compelling narratives and a commitment to excellence. Each project he undertakes is infused with a unique blend of strategic insight and creative vision, making him a distinctive voice in contemporary cinema.

In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Zachary about:

• Post-Navy Pivot: After flying jets, Zachary turned to filmmaking to follow his creative drive.

• Turning Points: He lost equipment and faced shutdowns but stayed focused on real, human stories.

• Canon Shot: His new documentary that captures the croquet rivalry between Navy and St. John’s, spotlighting cultural gaps. The film reveals how two schools in the same town rarely engage with each other.

• Real-World Impact: How his documentary helped spark new partnerships, with midshipmen now taking classes at St. John’s.

Timestamps:

• 00:31 Zach's Journey into Filmmaking

• 01:55 Early Wins and Challenges

• 03:36 The Concept of 'Dance for Your Dinner'

• 09:52 The Making of 'Canon Shot'

• 16:12 Surprising Discoveries and Reflections

• 22:35 Current Status and Support Needed

• 30:01 Conclusion and Contact Information

Connect with Zachary:

• LinkedIn

• Contact Page

If you found value in today’s episode, don’t keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you’re a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we’d love for you to join our community and get started today.

Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show:

• Apple Podcasts

• Spotify

• Leave us a 5-star review!

A special thank you to Zachary for joining me this week. Until next time!

-Scott Mackes, USNA ’01

Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/

Want to join us in San Antonio, TX on June 11th & 12th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events

____

Rob Pekarek is an Operations Research Analyst at Air Combat Command and a General Partner in multifamily real estate. On active duty, he serves on the staff of the four-star General commanding ACC, where he leads teams that solve operational challenges across the Air Force using tools like Python, Excel, and PowerPoint automation. His work has improved aircraft scheduling, streamlined data systems, and delivered practical solutions to commanders on base.

Rob previously completed a fully funded research fellowship at Purdue University, where he modeled climate adaptation strategies and infrastructure investment. His work informed a $5 billion coastal protection plan for Louisiana and supported the Naval Academy’s Sea Level Rise action plan.

Now active in real estate investing, Rob helped acquire a 24-unit apartment complex in 2024 and led investor outreach, raising over $500,000. He continues to manage investor communications and is passionate about building long-term value through data, real estate, and veteran collaboration.

In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Rob about:

• Real Estate at Full Speed: While on active duty, Rob became a general partner in two multifamily deals totaling over 50 units.

• Helping First Pays Off: He earned his first GP role by offering free support and adding value to the team.

• Lead Gen That Works: Rob uses content and clear qualifiers to attract the right investors.

• His Three Pillars: He focuses on fitness, wealth building, and creating purpose through community.

• Mindset for Growth: Rob believes in taking action, learning through failure, and building real relationships.

Timestamps:

• 01:02 Guest Background and Early Career

• 03:05 Real Estate Ventures and Side Hustles

• 10:25 Lead Generation Strategies

• 20:45 Three Pillars of a Successful Life

Connect with Rob:

• LinkedIn

• LinkTree | Rob Pekarek

If you found value in today’s episode, don’t keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you’re a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we’d love for you to join our community and get started today.

Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show:

• Apple Podcasts

• Spotify

• Leave us a 5-star review!

A special thank you to Rob for joining me this week. Until next time!

-Scott Mackes, USNA ’01

Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/

Want to join us in San Antonio, TX on June 11th & 12th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events

____

Jason is the founder of John Galt Services, a Bali-based outsourcing company that connects businesses with high-performing, multilingual talent across Indonesia. With a focus on quality, training, and long-term impact, his team works in person from Bali to deliver reliable, professional support at global standards. 

A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and former Navy Surface Warfare Officer, Jason has spent over two decades leading product development and building enterprise software systems for startups and major financial institutions. He previously founded a data systems firm that served clients like Invesco and Bridgewater Associates. 

Today, he also serves as a lead developer and technical leader at VeteranCrowd. Fluent in Bahasa Indonesia and deeply embedded in the local community, Jason is passionate about creating meaningful opportunities through global collaboration.

In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Jason about:

• The Spark Behind John Galt Services: Bridging global opportunity with untapped talent in Indonesia.

• What Sets It Apart: High-caliber, multilingual professionals trained and managed locally in Bali.

• Jason’s Path: From Navy officer and software developer to founder building impact abroad.

• Early Lessons: Navigating a competitive outsourcing market while prioritizing quality and purpose.

• What’s Next: Growing one placement at a time toward full-service managed teams.

Timestamps:

• 00:13 Reflecting on the Past Four Years

• 00:27 The End of Ring Knocker

• 01:19 Introducing John Galt Services

• 02:15 Discovering Indonesian Talent

• 04:06 The Business Proposition

• 08:37 The Start of a New Venture

• 15:45 Recruitment and Skill Matching

• 17:43 Goals and Future Plans

• 19:06 Expanding Services and Competitive Landscape

• 22:43 Journey to Indonesia and Life in Bali

• 24:52 Creating Opportunities and Making a Difference

• 26:36 Future Plans and Business Connections

• 28:03 A Story of Barbecue and Cultural Fusion

Connect with Jason:

• LinkedIn

If you found value in today’s episode, don’t keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you’re a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we’d love for you to join our community and get started today.

Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show:

• Apple Podcasts

• Spotify

• Leave us a 5-star review!

A special thank you to Jason for joining me this week. Until next time!

-Scott Mackes, USNA ’01