Episode 11 - Justin Brown: Nonprofit Founder, Entrepreneur, and U.S. Navy Veteran

Justin Brown: Nonprofit Founder, Entrepreneur, and U.S. Navy Veteran

In this episode of Tipping Spears with Hannah Becker, we welcome Justin Brown—U.S. Navy veteran, founder of the HillVets Foundation, and CEO of The Nimitz Group, a leading consulting and lobbying firm focused on technology, healthcare, and veteran policy. With nearly two decades of experience across the VA, VFW, American Legion, and Capitol Hill, Justin has shaped national conversations around military and veteran affairs while empowering the next generation of veteran leaders. Through HillVets, Justin has created a unique fellowship program, placing veterans, military spouses, and surviving spouses family in meaningful policy, legislative, and advocacy roles on Capitol Hill.

In this episode, Justin Brown shares:

• How his family’s military legacy and mentorship from veterans inspired his service

• His transition from the U.S. Navy into government, nonprofit and business sectors

• The importance of commitment to excellence and attention to detail in everyday life

• Obstacles he encountered and overcame as an entrepreneur

• Lessons learned through trial and error from starting new organizations

• The critical role mentorship plays in shaping personal and professional growth—how guidance from seasoned leaders can open doors, build confidence, and accelerate success

Justin’s impact is far-reaching, from placing veterans, military spouses, and surviving spouses in high-impact roles to helping shape policies that affect millions. His journey is a powerful reminder of the importance of community, leadership, and purpose beyond the uniform!

Catch the podcast episode on the following streaming channels:

• YouTube - click here to listen

• Spotify - click here to listen

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About the Guest:

Justin Brown is the Founder of the HillVets Foundation and CEO of The Nimitz Group, a leading consulting and lobbying firm focused on technology, healthcare, and veteran policy. Through HillVets, he has championed efforts to empower veterans and military families, most notably through the foundation’s fellowship program that places veterans in impactful roles across government and advocacy organizations. With nearly 20 years of experience, Justin has held leadership roles at the VA, VFW, and American Legion, and served as Staff Director for multiple Congressional Subcommittees. A U.S. Navy veteran, he completed three deployments and later earned degrees from the University of Utah and the U.S. Naval War College. A native of Utah, Justin is passionate about the outdoors and mentoring the next generation of leaders.