We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Tamara Windham a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Tamara, thanks for joining us today. Coming up with the idea is so exciting, but then comes the hard part – executing. Too often the media ignores the execution part and goes from idea to success, skipping over the nitty, gritty details of executing in the early days. We think that’s a disservice both to the entrepreneurs who built something amazing as well as the public who isn’t getting a realistic picture of what it takes to succeed. So, we’d really appreciate if you could open up about your execution story – how did you go from idea to execution?

As the spouse of an Army Veteran, I am dedicated to providing full-time care for my husband. Balancing caregiving with personal aspirations can be challenging. In 2022, I experienced a severe pulmonary embolism, resulting in over 60 blood clots and requiring resuscitation three times. This left me feeling helpless and incapacitated.

In July 2023, I began an educational journey with Dog Tag Bakery, an online business school partnered with Loyola University and Georgetown University, offering a rigorous five-month training program. Initially, my plan was to create dog treats. However, my path evolved into establishing a nonprofit organization focused on supporting spouses and caregivers of disabled veterans.

My nonprofit is now a registered 501(c)(3) entity, committed to securing property and additional funding for a rest and respite center. Although we are currently starting by serving local spouses and caregivers, our ultimate goal is to provide a four-day retreat in the Ozark Mountains. This will include 8 tiny houses so they can relax and unwind. We have already partnered with local nonprofits and business owners to ensure an exceptional experience. The retreat will feature activities such as hiking, mountain biking, rafting, kayaking, facials, counseling, and more.

There are over 5.5 million caregivers registered with the VA, not including the millions who are not registered. Our mission is to offer these dedicated individuals much-needed rest and rejuvenation.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My involvement in this nonprofit was entirely unplanned, yet it has become a profound mission. Our organization supports spouses and caregivers of disabled veterans, providing them with solace and a fellowship that offers a safe, judgment-free space for open communication. We emphasize wellness and self-care, helping these selfless individuals recharge and rejuvenate. Our mission is to breathe life back into the lives of our nation’s caregivers.

Additionally, we have partnered with other nonprofits to assist those affected by the ten tornadoes that recently struck Northwest Arkansas, leaving many without homes and basic necessities.

Being a caregiver or spouse to a disabled veteran can often lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation. Our goal is to ensure these individuals never feel alone, offering support, companionship, and a sense of community. We are also organizing reunions to foster and strengthen this fellowship, ensuring ongoing support and connection for all involved.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

In May 2022, I was in the pre-operative waiting area for a routine knee surgery when I experienced an unexpected and profound moment. I distinctly felt a clear message: “I am going to allow you to go through some rough waters. You will be okay.” This unsettling message made me consider leaving, but I decided to proceed with the surgery.

While the surgery itself was successful, complications arose, and five days later, I was back on the operating table to remove over 60 blood clots from my lungs. This emergency surgery was unforeseen when I returned to the hospital.

After four years and 11 surgeries, I am now pursuing my passion for helping others.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

Recently I was working with a non-profit organization that provided food truck for business. Although, I thought it was a great idea, it added additional stress and ideas that were not a part of the plan for Hold the Fort Down. I was required to create a whole other set of documents and put my nonprofit to the sidelines. I quickly learned that not everyone is beneficial to further my mission. Sometimes it’s more important to keep to your mission and don’t make detours.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.holdthefortdown.org
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/holdthefortdown
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/holdthefortdown
• Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/holdthefortdown