Veteran Leadership Lasting Impact

James Powers is a U.S. Army veteran and a leading advocate for veterans, known for his bold leadership and dedication to improving the lives of those who have served. Serving 11 years including combat operations in Iraq as a team leader, James had career of challenging leadership positions and intense operational responsibilities, earned him several commendations. James was medically retired in 2016 after  the injuries he sustained in the line of duty became to much.

In his post-military career, James has become a passionate advocate for veterans, working with  multiple organizations across ideologically and political spectrums . His advocacy has led him to organize and lead grassroots efforts, including coordinating a cross-country advocacy road trip to engage with congressional offices, conducting media interviews, and creating impactful social media campaigns. He also played a key role in organizing public demonstrations outside the U.S. Capitol, aimed at improving veteran-related policies.

As the founder of Just A Veteran, James applies his extensive experience in leadership, operations, and advocacy to offer strategic consulting services for businesses and organizations. His work focuses on veteran engagement, leadership development, and team-building strategies, helping organizations integrate the discipline and resilience that veterans bring to the workforce.

James's leadership extends beyond advocacy; he has held key management and administrative positions in the private sector, ranging from security management to inventory and logistics. His multifaceted career, combined with his dedication to veterans, makes him a dynamic and results-driven leader committed to driving impactful change for the veteran community and beyond.

Matt Zeller is a U.S. Army veteran, former CIA officer, and a leading advocate for Afghan and Iraqi interpreters who risked their lives alongside American forces. During his deployment as an embedded combat adviser in Afghanistan, Matt saw firsthand how vital these interpreters were in saving lives and assisting U.S. troops. This experience led him to co-found No One Left Behind, a non-profit dedicated to ensuring these wartime allies are protected and supported. Under his leadership, the organization has helped thousands of interpreters and their families safely resettle in the U.S. after facing threats from insurgent groups.

In his work with Just A Veteran, Matt brings his vast military and intelligence experience to provide consulting services focused on leadership development, crisis management, and veteran engagement. His unique perspective, shaped by his time in both the military and CIA, makes him a trusted advisor for organizations seeking mission-driven strategies. Additionally, Matt serves as a war consultant for film and television, ensuring accuracy and authenticity in the portrayal of military operations.

Matt is also the author of Watches Without Time, a compelling memoir of his time in Afghanistan, offering an intimate look into the challenges of war and the struggles faced by local interpreters. His work has been widely recognized for its impact on both veterans and the broader military community.

He holds a BA in Government from Hamilton College and earned both an MPA and an MA in International Relations from The Maxwell School at Syracuse University. In his spare time, Matt enjoys skiing and is an instructor at Aspen Snowmass. Through Just A Veteran, he continues to help organizations and leaders embrace resilience, teamwork, and purpose-driven leadership.