We had the good fortune of connecting with Brent Casey and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Brent, we’d love for you to start things off by telling us something about your industry that we and others not in the industry might be unaware of?
The fact that we are a Cause-Driven Business. Sure, we are for profit but our “Cause” we support with proceeds is The WOODY WILLIAMS FOUNDATION and Gold Star Families, along with several other military related non-profits such as the Robert Irvine Foundation and Gold Star Mothers of America.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My grandfather was my inspiration for joining the military in 1987. The military gave me the structure, responsibility, discipline and love of country that helped make me who I am today. Unfortunately the combat experience took a heavy toll on me mentally. I attempted to fight those demons on my own for about 15 years until which point I ended up homeless, jobless, and addicted to drugs and alcohol. Needless to say, getting where I am today, did not come easy. Fortunately my family and the VA pulled me out of the hell I was living in and got me headed back the right direction. I went on to get extensive tx for PTSD, went back to school, got my 4 year, Masters and pursued a Doctorate degree in Strategic Mgmt. A few years later I had the vision to start a nonprofit- The Woody Williams Foundation, along with Woody and my brother Bryan. We’ve been recognizing and honoring Gold Star Families since. I served 5 years as CEO and Chair of the BOD, and now the past 5 years, I continue serve on the Board. 5 years ago I decided to start my own business- Valor….
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’m in Louisville Ky so if it happened to be this weekend, we’d be going to the Ky Derby. After that, we’d board a plane for Jamaica- my favorite place on Earth – I’ve been 10 times. We’d eat jerk chicken, hopefully find some sushi, get a couple lobsters from the market and chow down.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Yes, absolutely, everything I own physically and mentally, I owe to my grandfather, Medal of Honor Recipient Hershel Woody Williams, WWII, Battle of Iwo Jima. My grandfather (along with my brother and mother, and then the VA) saved my life and gave me hope which led to where I’m at now.
Website: www.valorcoinsandpins.com