Redefining the Veteran Narrative: Kevin Schmiegel's Mission Beyond the Uniform

Today, host Richard Taite sits down with Kevin Schmiegel, founder of ZeroMils, a groundbreaking organization dedicated to supporting veterans and bridging the gap between military and civilian life. Coming from a family of service—both his father and mother were called to serve—Kevin’s commitment to the country runs deep. A retired Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel who served 20 years and deployed to over 50 countries across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, Kevin’s experience in leadership and resilience shaped his mission long before ZeroMils came to life. After leaving the Marines, Kevin transitioned into a high-level role at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, where the demands of corporate life eventually led to burnout and depression—a struggle familiar to many veterans navigating life after service. Through that difficult chapter, Kevin rediscovered his purpose and found a new mission: helping his brothers and sisters in uniform successfully transition back into civilian life. Kevin co-founded ZeroMils alongside a fellow Marine brother, with a mission to redefine the veteran narrative. Rather than seeing veterans as “broken,” he believes they embody discipline, leadership, and purpose—qualities that make them exceptional citizens and employees. Through his work, Kevin is helping shift the stigma surrounding veterans while connecting them to jobs, housing, and community resources. With decades of experience in both military and civilian leadership, Kevin has partnered with numerous nonprofits to successfully place dozens of veterans into the workforce. His life’s work is dedicated to bridging the civilian-military divide and ensuring those who served have the tools, recognition, and opportunities they deserve. In this inspiring conversation, Kevin Schmiegel opens up about his journey from military service to personal struggle to renewed purpose. Through ZeroMils, he’s proving that veterans aren’t defined by their hardships—they’re defined by their resilience, leadership, and unwavering commitment to serve. His story is a reminder that while the uniform may come off, the mission to create impact never ends.