Vision
1) Help minimize the impact of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in the home by building a retreat, safe-place, for veterans to re-group and reintegrate.
2) Expand veterans’ creativity in business by providing the necessary coaching, tools and space for veterans to pursue self-employment out of their newly built veTcave.
Values
Those involved in the veTcave share common values of self-reliance, selfless service and community. We empathize deeply with veterans suffering from PTSD, as many veTcave Members also struggle with PTSD. We aim to raise awareness of PTSD, help veterans become an integral part of their communities, and assist them reach their potential through entrepreneurial endeavors.
For all too many veterans, returning from military service means coping with symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It is important to know that you’re not alone and there are plenty of help and actions you can take to start feeling better.
This is where Leo Oliveira and Matt Bernal, military veterans, found themselves. A life that seemed hopeless, full of anger and blame, shame and guilt. One day, while Matt and Leo hung out in the, back then, called “mancave”, a wood shed built in Leo’s backyard, came the idea of the creation of a reality TV show that would build mini homes for veterans with PTSD and teach fellow comrades how to become entrepreneurs.
After struggling with PTSD, Matt has focused the last three years on regaining his mental health. A long journey for this veteran, but today Matt runs 6-10 miles daily. Matt states, “running changed my life and it’s given me a better grip on reality.” Matt also spends much of his time running veTcave and operating a jewelry business out of his veTcave, a place of meditation, healing and creativity.
Leo has been focused on mindfulness and healing for the last 3 years. Earning an MBA from Westminster College, Leo has been a motivator and influencer of the millennial leaders of Silicon Slopes. While healing from physical and mental injuries has been a priority for this veteran; pursuing entrepreneurial ventures has brought the greatest strength and healing. Currently, Leo runs two businesses out of his veTcave. The veTcave itself and a consultancy focused on executive coaching, with a focus on Culture, Career Development and Motivation.
This is where Leo Oliveira and Matt Bernal, military veterans, found themselves. A life that seemed hopeless, full of anger and blame, shame and guilt. One day, while Matt and Leo hung out in the, back then, called “mancave”, a wood shed built in Leo’s backyard, came the idea of the creation of a reality TV show that would build mini homes for veterans with PTSD and teach fellow comrades how to become entrepreneurs.
After struggling with PTSD, Matt has focused the last three years on regaining his mental health. A long journey for this veteran, but today Matt runs 6-10 miles daily. Matt states, “running changed my life and it’s given me a better grip on reality.” Matt also spends much of his time running veTcave and operating a jewelry business out of his veTcave, a place of meditation, healing and creativity.
Leo has been focused on mindfulness and healing for the last 3 years. Earning an MBA from Westminster College, Leo has been a motivator and influencer of the millennial leaders of Silicon Slopes. While healing from physical and mental injuries has been a priority for this veteran; pursuing entrepreneurial ventures has brought the greatest strength and healing. Currently, Leo runs two businesses out of his veTcave. The veTcave itself and a consultancy focused on executive coaching, with a focus on Culture, Career Development and Motivation.
