Mark Harper isn’t your average Veteran leader. He’s gone from leading combat camera teams in the heart of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom to steering the helm of major military media platforms like We Are The Mighty.
In this Veteran-Led Podcast episode, we discuss his journey and the unique blend of skills and adaptability that Veterans bring to the table — a story that resonates with anyone who’s ever wondered, “What’s next after the military?”
Harper’s military career took an unexpected turn when the Twin Towers fell on September 11, 2001. Overnight, he went from a communications officer in the Air Force to a critical component of the war effort.
As he explains, “I went from overnight being, you know, communications guy in the Air Force to part of the warfighting mission, like real fast.”
This sudden shift highlights a fundamental truth about military service: adaptability is key. The ability to pivot, learn new skills, and lead under immense pressure is something Veterans excel at, whether it’s on the battlefield or in the boardroom.
In Harper’s case, those leadership qualities were put to the test as he helped establish crucial communications infrastructure in active war zones.
After his time in the military, Harper made a bold move into the entertainment industry, leveraging his experience leading Combat Camera teams. These teams serve as the eyes and ears of the military, documenting everything from military exercises to humanitarian missions. This unique role honed Harper’s storytelling skills and gave him a deep understanding of the power of visual communication.
In Hollywood, those skills translated seamlessly. Working at Paramount Pictures, Harper was at the forefront of the digital marketing revolution, running social media campaigns for blockbuster franchises like Transformers, G.I. Joe, and Star Trek. His military background not only gave him a unique perspective but also equipped him with the leadership and communication skills needed to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
Recognizing a gap in the market for authentic military storytelling, Harper teamed up with David Gale, the former head of MTV Films, to create We Are The Mighty. This digital platform quickly became a go-to source for news, entertainment, and community for veterans and active-duty service members alike.
Building a brand from the ground up is no easy feat, but Harper’s experience in both the military and entertainment industries gave him the know-how to create a successful media platform. More importantly, We Are The Mighty became a powerful tool for Veteran empowerment, giving voice to the military community and providing a space for them to share their stories and experiences.
While Harper’s journey showcases the incredible adaptability and resilience of Veterans, it also underscores the importance of having a strong support system. Transitioning from the military to civilian life can be challenging, and having a network of mentors, peers, and resources can make all the difference.
In Harper’s case, his connections within the military and entertainment industries opened doors and guided him as he navigated new career paths. He also emphasizes the value of veterans helping Veterans, citing the Military Influencer Conference as a prime example of how a supportive community can empower individuals and drive positive change.
Mark Harper’s leadership journey didn’t end when he left the military. In fact, it evolved as he observed and learned from both positive and negative leadership styles in his civilian career. Reflecting on a leader he admired, Harper emphasizes the importance of staying “calm, cool, and collected” even under immense pressure – a trait many Veterans develop in the crucible of combat.
Conversely, he also witnessed the pitfalls of micromanagement, noting how a leader’s desire to see “faces in seats” can stifle creativity and harm team morale. This resonates with the experience of many Veterans who have experienced both empowering and demoralizing leadership.
The takeaway? Effective Veteran leadership involves finding a balance between providing clear direction and fostering an environment where individuals can thrive and take ownership.
Creating a positive culture is also crucial, as Harper emphasizes. This means fostering an atmosphere of trust, respect, and mutual support – values that are deeply ingrained in military culture. When Veteran leaders prioritize these values, they create teams that are not only high-performing but also genuinely invested in the mission at hand.
Harper’s dedication to empowering Veterans extends beyond his work in the media industry. As a key figure in the Military Influencer Conference (MIC), he’s helping to create a platform for Veterans to connect, collaborate, and share their unique perspectives.
“The Military Influencer Conference is about bringing people from our community together to help each other,” Harper explains. It’s a place where Veterans can learn from one another, network, and explore opportunities for growth and impact. The conference has grown significantly since its inception, reflecting the increasing recognition of Veteran voices and the desire for connection within the veteran community.
The MIC is just one example of how Veteran leaders are shaping the future. By leveraging their skills, experience, and networks, they’re making a positive impact in various fields – from entrepreneurship to media to public service.
Mark Harper’s journey is a testament to the versatility of veteran leadership. From documenting wars to building brands and empowering fellow Veterans, he’s consistently demonstrated the ability to adapt, lead, and make a difference.
Interested in connecting with other Veteran leaders and exploring your own potential? Consider attending the next Military Influencer Conference or reaching out to Mark Harper on LinkedIn.
His story is a reminder that with the right mindset and a willingness to embrace new challenges, the possibilities for Veterans are limitless.
Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. The Veteran Led community is here to support you every step of the way.
Don’t hesitate to share your own experiences or reach out if you need guidance. Together, we can empower Veterans to thrive in their post-military lives. Tune in to the Veteran Led Podcast to learn more powerful and inspiring stories for Veterans and how they keep improving and contributing to our community.
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