Navy Veteran and Urban Fashion Icon J. Alexander Martin Authors New Book — Veterans Network Club

After working as a radioman, J. had to be medically discharged due to an unfortunate accident. Like many veterans, he also faced the same challenges in transitioning from the military to civilian life. DP noted how many veterans, especially those who are disabled, often feel that it’s the end of the line for them and that there’s nowhere else to go. He went on to say that J.’s success as an entrepreneur proves that there is a bigger world out there that veterans can conquer “if we learn to reinvent ourselves.”

J. went on to share how he used the skills he learned in the military and utilized it to reinvent himself. He explained “Military training taught me to pay attention to detail. I paid attention to my detail, to myself and what I’m good at.” He honed that skill and applied it to his interests and worked from there. “When I design, I look for what people want,” he added.

J. Alexander Martin’s advice to aspiring entrepreneurs: “You can do it if you DO it.” 

Since then, there’s been no stopping J. from achieving the life he always wanted. From being a fashion mogul of one of the most successful urban brands to a published author of two books, J.’s business acumen has kept him going. He revealed that one of his keys to success is having the right mindset and good old-fashioned hard work. He explained that sometimes it’s easy to get motivated by hearing other people’s success stories; but, defining you, will depend on how much effort and hard work you put into achieving your goals. “Veterans like him who get out of service due to medical reasons must not stop pushing themselves on what they can still do and achieve,” said J. 

“Everything happens for a reason but if you don’t utilize it. Nothing. You need to work. If you’re looking at someone’s progress, you are not looking at yourself, “J. said.

J. explained that many get out of the military and become clueless about translating and utilizing their skills. J advised that you look into yourself and know the “inner you” and apply it to do something you’ve always wanted. DP agreed and added that veterans come out of service with different skills set, but it’s vital to find a way to utilize them. “Not just talk, apply your skills,” DP remarked.

The successful entrepreneur also shared some of the skills he learned in the military that contributed to his success in building an empire. One of them is how the military taught him about structure, which he described as his “business mind.” He then applied that with his interest in fashion and creativity. J. said he created a balance which is beneficial in making the right business decisions. Another skill he learned in the military is leadership, leading and assessing the situation even under stressful conditions. 

Creating a business with YOUR rock

For those veterans who are still at odds in finding an opportunity, J. suggested a “work out,” which he described can help build and hone your “business mind.” He said, “Go outside and find a rock. Come back to the house. Turn off your devices, TV, cellphone, radio, everything. Sit there with your rock and create a business with that rock.”

J. stressed how important it is to think outside the box and use the skills and fundamentals you already have. DP added how you must take your rock and be agile to something out of it. He said, “If you put rocks together, you can build boulders and mountains, and you can do more.”

Currently, J. is busy expanding his empire and coping with the industry’s demands amid the ongoing pandemic. While the J. Alexander Martin Consulting LLC is still open for consulting, they are now also working providing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), safety apparel, and helping companies find what they need. J. also revealed they are working on “For Us, Buy Us Network,” a transition from the FUBU brand to reach more people. 

Join the club that veterans are talking about!  

Discussions on entrepreneurial success are just among the many interactions veterans in the Veterans Network Club get to enjoy. The Veterans Network Club is the largest veterans group in Clubhouse, and it continues to grow rapidly every day. With more than 2,700 members, the club has become widely popular for its array of topics and regular meetings that are perfectly suited to the needs and interests of veterans, active-duty military service personnel and even their families. 

If you prefer to connect at your own pace, the Veterans Network is also a website filled with various information and interests, specially made for veterans. We have a video gallery filled with insightful interviews from thought experts (and veterans too!) such as J. Alexander Martin, the founder of the iconic urban brand FUBU Clothing and more. Our blog section is also available to offer you content written by professionals and leaders in their fields. Anything veteran-related, we have it for you!

Veterans Network is a community and content developer for all-things of interest and supporting veterans, military families and spouses, and individuals dedicated to serving the veteran space. Veterans Network is a community and content developer for all-things of interest and supporting veterans, military families and spouses, and individuals dedicated to serving the veteran space. You can find Veterans Network on Facebook, on LinkedIn, on Instagram and on YouTube.