Category Archives: Starting out
Embracing Passion Over Paychecks: A Personal Reflection on Life’s Journey
Over the last few months, I’ve found myself stepping into a role I hadn’t fully anticipated. As the VP for federal sales for a small group of companies that have been serving in transportation, warehousing, and logistics for over a century, I’ve been reflecting on what this decision has meant for me. In sharing these reflections, I hope to offer some insights to others, whether in their professional or personal lives—because, in truth, I no longer see a difference between the two.
It’s worth mentioning that calling this a “decision” seems almost inaccurate. It wasn’t something I fell into by accident, nor was it a clear-cut plan. Instead, I see it as the culmination of a philosophy I’ve only recently embraced: follow your passion, not the money. I’ve come across numerous interviews and stories from people who seem truly content with their lives. A common thread ties them together—don’t chase the paycheck, chase what you love. “You reap what you sow,” after all. I think I’m finally living by that belief.
Looking back, I never imagined I’d be in this position. All I wanted was to help an old friend from 35 years ago with his business. I reached out to him regularly, offering help, driven by a desire to see him succeed. Eventually, he said, “Alright, Lou, I’ll go with you.” I didn’t do it for money; in fact, I would have done it for free. Helping the business grow—and more importantly, helping the people within it—was fulfilling in a way I hadn’t expected.
Of course, most of us need money to survive. But the question that lingered for me was: how much do we really need? I realized that contentment isn’t as tightly tied to finances as I once believed. It was the sense of accomplishment—knowing that something my friend had struggled with for years was finally within reach. We succeeded in months, and from that moment, I was asked to do more. I did, and I loved every minute of it.
For someone who hasn’t been a big risk-taker, the move to working entirely on commission was a leap of faith. I had to trust in myself, in my ability to succeed, and in the joy I found in the work. It felt new, refreshing—even exhilarating. It reminded me of my younger years when I served as an officer and truly loved what I was doing for my country. That feeling of purpose and fulfillment has returned.
I sometimes wonder why I didn’t take this path sooner. But at the same time, I’m grateful that I found it now. I’m not sure where this journey will lead, but what I do know is that embracing this new direction has left me feeling more at peace—with my decisions, with myself, and with my life.
In the end, that’s all we can hope for: to find joy in the work we do and contentment in the life we live. I’m grateful for the path I’m on, and I hope others find their own passions, too—because once you do, everything else seems to fall into place.
A Picture is Worth 1000 Words
We are starting to get a lot of traction around helping founders show potential customers their organizations are being run in accordance with Federal and State legal, financial and business requirements through the awarding of federal certifications. They also demonstrate there past affiliation with the US Armed Services and there pride in the tradition of service and professionalism the Armed Services represent.
They realize as do customers that Federal Certification offered through the GSA have intrinsic values beyond the ability to open another channel for them. Let me help you see that as well.
We want to partner with you and help your organization have an additional tool to be successful. We work to make our services affordable and a true benefit to you.
We would love to help you. Lou Schwartz, founder
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Military Talent Pipeline LLC (MTP) Receives Federally Recognized Entity Designation and Certification, Opens Pathways for Federal Contracting Opportunities
[Atlanta, GA, March 12, 2024] – Military Talent Pipeline LLC (MTP), a company dedicated to recruiting and producing military-connected talent while providing cost-effective solutions for businesses, is proud to announce that it has attained its Federally Recognized Entity Designation, CAGE code, DLA Account, and Certification with the Small Business Administration (SBA) as a Certified Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB).
Led by President George Bernloehr, MTP has solidified its position to compete for Federal Contracts as both a Prime and Subcontractor, participate in Protégé Programs, and pursue sole-source and set-aside contracts at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) under the VA’s Vets First program.
This designation not only reflects MTP’s commitment to supporting military-connected individuals but also opens up significant opportunities for collaboration with federal agencies. The company’s expertise in talent acquisition and its focus on leveraging military experience make it a valuable partner for government agencies seeking to fulfill their contracting needs.
“We are thrilled to have achieved this milestone,” said George Bernloehr, President of MTP. “This designation not only validates our dedication to serving our military community but also allows us to expand our reach and impact by partnering with federal agencies. We look forward to leveraging this certification to further our mission of connecting military talent with meaningful opportunities.”
In addition to its own certification, MTP is also proud to announce its partnership with LOUJSWZ Inc., a company specializing in assisting businesses in obtaining Federal certifications. Through this partnership, businesses can access a multitude of credentials, opening up additional avenues for federal contracting and collaboration.
Businesses interested in obtaining certifications and credentials to enhance their federal contracting opportunities are encouraged to reach out to Lou Schwartz of LOUJSWZ INC. at lou@loujswz.com or 706-332-6005.
For more information about Military Talent Pipeline LLC and its services, please contact:
George Bernloehr, President
Military Talent Pipeline LLC
https://www.miltalent.net/
Email: George_Bernloehr@MilTalent.net
Phone: 770-744-0512
About Military Talent Pipeline LLC (MTP):
Military Talent Pipeline LLC (MTP) is a company dedicated to recruiting and producing military-connected talent while providing cost-effective solutions for businesses. With a focus on connecting military talent with meaningful opportunities, MTP aims to bridge the gap between military service and civilian employment. We improve the hiring process for companies and military-connected talent alike. We define military-connected talent as: Transitioning Military Professionals, Veterans with industry experience, Military Spouses, and Men and Women serving in the Guard and Reserve. MTP utilizes recruiting expertise and a new talent networking/pipeline/subscription process to effectively introduce clients/employers to prescreened, qualified, and ready-to-interview diverse candidates.
Employee of the Month LOUJSWZ Inc.
I’m very happy to announce for the 10th month in a row that Louis Schwartz is the Employee of the Month for LOUJSWZ Incorporated.
“At LOUJSWZ we take great pride in our employee. Especially the only one we have”. The President of LOUJSWZ, Lou Schwartz said at the monthly awards pot luck in front of a packed house of family and friends.
Lou is working extra hard to support the Company, his family and those that want to make things easier for themselves.
Maybe you can be the next client to work with the top talent LOUJSWZ Inc. has to offer. Reach out to us at lou@loujswz.com or book some time at https://book.titan.email/loujswz to see how Lou can help.
Where are We Now
It’s been two months
Haven’t found someone that is interested in our services
How do you find a customer?
I know I we can assist and help people.
Thanks enough whine! We are not giving up and we are working to market our abilities, knowledge and skills to help others with programs and projects. We want to help you!
Please reach out you wont be disappointed.
LOUJSWZ Inc is Proud to Offer a New Service
We want to assist your small businesses, including veteran-owned and disabled veteran-owned small businesses, become certified by the Small Business Administration (SBA). These certifications can provide various benefits, including access to government contracts marketing channels and set-aside programs.
Here are a few points to consider why to hire us:
Demand for Certification: Many government agencies, including the SBA, set aside a portion of their contracts for certified small businesses. This creates a strong incentive for small businesses to pursue certifications. Veteran-owned and disabled veteran-owned businesses may also have specific certification programs available to them.
Complex Process: The application process for SBA certifications can be complex and time-consuming. It often involves extensive documentation and adherence to specific requirements. This complexity creates a need for professional services that can guide businesses through the certification process.
Expertise Required: We have a deep and current understanding of SBA regulations, the certification requirements, and the ability to help businesses compile the necessary documentation. They can also assist with appeals if certification is denied.
Market Competition: We standout as we are a dedicated resource with you in mind and we have real life experience beyond an assigned associated to provide you a worklist.
Networking and Government Relationships: Building strong relationships with government agencies, SBA representatives, and other stakeholders can be crucial for gaining credibility and clients in this industry.
Changing Regulations: It’s important to stay updated on changes in certification regulations and requirements, as these can evolve over time. Being informed about the latest updates will help you offer accurate and relevant services to your clients.
Embracing Change: Finding Inspiration in a Banyan Tree’s Resilience
It’s been ten months since I left my stable, high-paying, high-level, yet unfulfilling job. Since then, my journey has been a rollercoaster ride filled with unexpected twists and turns. I’ve worked part-time as a call center agent, started my own business, worked as an independent contractor through my business, been let go once, and quit another job. And now, I find myself working part-time at a giant home improvement store in the inside lawn and garden section while continuing to explore the possibilities of my Company. If you had asked me last year if I would be doing any of these things, I would have emphatically said, “NO WAY.” But here I am, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
I chose the photo above because it reminds me of my youth. It’s an image of a majestic Banyan tree with Seagrapes growing below it. Back in Miami, during my childhood, I used to play under a giant Banyan tree in the park across from my elementary school. It was there that I learned how Bahamians make wine and enjoy the berries from the Seagrape tree. But beyond the personal recollection, there’s a deeper connection that this image brings to my life and my business journey.
The Banyan tree, with its sprawling branches and roots, is an incredible symbol of resilience and adaptability. It expands and increases its likelihood of survival by sending down roots from its branches, serving as both anchors and sources of sustenance. This remarkable ability to adapt and thrive in challenging conditions is something we can all learn from, and it’s a central theme in my entrepreneurial journey.
Of course, just like the Banyan tree, life isn’t without its vulnerabilities. The same Miami where I played beneath that giant Banyan tree was hit by Hurricane Andrew in 1993. One of the casualties of that devastating storm was the Banyan tree across the street from the first home I lived in. This tree was a behemoth, as tall as a three-story house, and when it fell, it was just as imposing on its side. It took two years to remove its hulking body, and the spot where it once stood was left barren.
The lesson here is clear: even the mightiest can face adversity. The Banyan tree, with all its strength and resilience, succumbed to the forces of nature. But what’s remarkable is that the spirit of that tree lives on as a symbol of adaptability and the ability to bounce back from even the most significant setbacks.
In my own journey, I’ve encountered moments of vulnerability and uncertainty. The transition from a stable corporate job to part-time work, entrepreneurship, and various employment changes hasn’t been easy. But like the Banyan tree, I’ve learned to adapt and seek sustenance from unexpected sources. I’ve drawn strength from the belief that embracing change and taking calculated risks can lead to personal and professional growth.
So, if you’re at a crossroads in your life or career, consider the resilience of the Banyan tree and its ability to flourish in diverse conditions. Embrace change, take risks, and remember that in vulnerability, there is room for growth. Just like that Banyan tree in the park across from my childhood school, you too can weather the storms of life and continue to thrive.
Today We Received the News
After dedicating several weeks preparing all the necessary documentation to validate my status as a service-disabled veteran and to establish my business as a legitimate small enterprise, we have successfully obtained our certification as a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB). Throughout this process, we have garnered invaluable insights and experiences, all of which have presented us with another avenue to offer our professional services to other organizations seeking to explore additional work opportunities.
Both Sherri and I eagerly anticipate the prospects that this designation will bring, along with the sense of pride associated with being recognized by the U.S. Small Business Administration. We are excited to embark on new ventures and hope to make substantial contributions in our field of expertise.
Has anyone had to fire yourself?
A few weeks ago I was working part time for two different companies. One required so much time with little reward while the other provided great reward with little time invested.
One supported my entry into being a small business owner and strengthen business skills in AI and writing while the other provided me with a human connection and employee benefits for my family. With both of them it seemed I had a complete business life.
I thought this work situation would be great. After several months of no work and an inability to find it after being let go from a Company I worked for for eleven years at the end of last year it was a great relief. I could turn our cable back on and go out to dinner once and a while.
For a few months this was working out prefect then it wasn’t
The Company I was contracted by wanted me to work full time for them which I thought would be great. Except for the great folks at the other job I would be losing contact with and those employee benefits. Also I had a contract opportunity that I would have to give up as I would not be able to fulfill all of the time commitments between the two contracts.
I resigned from working in a call center with all the great people and great benefits but terrible pay and horrible time requirements and then I let the other Company know I couldn’t be considered for there contract as I was going all in with my full time contract. I would be making more money and have some work life balance I didn’t have working in the call center. Two weeks in they terminated the contract.
Now I am back at square one. But am I? I don’t think so, as I learned more about me and what I truly want. How to start a business, how to get a contract, so many new things and I will keep learning and climbing the mountain of life. On to the next bend in the road as I will need to rehire myself soonest.
