This segment is Veteran Focused; Dave and his guests discuss Veteran leadership, service, stories, and transition. Today, our host, Dave MacCutcheon, spoke with Jose Enrique Melendez.
Jose Enrique Melendez
Co-Founder at S.T.I.X. Academy
Website Address: https://www.stixacademy.org/
Short company description:
STIX Academy is a faith‑centered nonprofit in Jacksonville that restores hope and identity through rhythm, mentorship, and community. We empower youth with discipline and creativity through drumming, while honoring and engaging U.S. veterans as mentors and leaders. Our programs build confidence, character, and connection, creating a safe space where students grow, veterans heal, and families thrive.
What is one question you would like the host to ask you?
How does STIX Academy restore hope and identity for young people and veterans, and why is rhythm such a powerful tool for healing?
What’s one thing we should know that makes your company unique?
One thing that truly makes STIX Academy unique is the way we unite youth and U.S. veterans through rhythm to create healing, discipline, and identity for both groups at the same time.
Most programs serve one population or the other — but STIX is intentionally built as a bridge.
Youth gain mentors who bring discipline, purpose, and lived experience.
Veterans gain a renewed sense of mission, belonging, and emotional restoration.
Rhythm becomes the shared language that connects them.
That dual‑impact model — healing veterans while shaping youth — is rare, powerful, and deeply rooted in your faith‑centered mission.
If you had one message to get across to future customers, what would it be?
When you are in trouble – hire the best.
How do you define success?
For us, success isn’t measured by how many people we serve — it’s measured by who they become and why we do this work. Success is seeing young people grow in discipline, confidence, and character, and watching veterans regain mental strength, belonging, and a renewed sense of purpose. If lives are being shaped and hope is being restored, that’s success for STIX Academy.
How did you get started in your field of work?
I got started in this work because it’s my testimony — I lived it, and I’m still living it today. Rhythm, faith, and community were the tools God used to rebuild my identity after the Army, and that personal healing became the foundation for STIX Academy. I’m not teaching something I read in a book; I’m teaching what saved me.
What was the most impactful moment of your transition out of the military?
Finding a new purpose and community.
How has your business changed in the past 12 months?
ChatGPT is rapidly changing the legal profession
What is your “why”? What drives you to do what you do every day?
TFH1 aims to address the mental health challenges faced by active military, veterans, first responders, and their families. These groups often experience high levels of stress, trauma, and emotional difficulties due to their roles and experiences. TFH1 recognizes the importance of promoting mental well-being and preventing suicide within these communities.
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