As Americans observe Veterans Day, Nutritional Products International (NPI) Founder and CEO Mitch Gould is calling on the nation to recognize the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces and to reflect on their lasting contributions to the country. Observed annually on November 11, Veterans Day honors all who have served in the U.S. military, recognizing their dedication, courage, and commitment to protecting the freedoms Americans enjoy.
“Veterans Day is an opportunity to thank the men and women who answered the call to serve our country,” Gould said. “Their courage, dedication, and willingness to put service above self deserve our respect and gratitude, not just today, but throughout the year.”
Gould, whose career spans more than 35 years in retail distribution, manufacturing, and brand development, said the qualities demonstrated by military veterans reflect values that have also shaped his approach to entrepreneurship and leadership. “Discipline, perseverance, teamwork, and commitment are qualities that define strong leaders,” he said. “Our veterans have demonstrated those values through their service, often under circumstances most of us will never experience. Their example offers lessons that extend far beyond the military.”
Gould’s recently released memoir, The Blonde, the Ferrari, and the Kwan: The Quintessential American Success Story, reflects on the personal relationships, life experiences, and career journey that helped shape his path from a Brooklyn upbringing to building partnerships with major retailers, athletes, entertainers, and consumer brands across the United States. Among the relationships explored in the book are those with individuals whose backgrounds include military service, intelligence, and security operations. Through these experiences, Gould gained a deeper appreciation for the discipline, preparation, leadership, and commitment required of those who serve in demanding environments. Those lessons continue to influence his perspective on perseverance, personal responsibility, and leadership.
Over the course of his career, Gould has helped launch and expand brands into major retail channels including Amazon, Walmart, Costco, CVS, Walgreens, GNC, 7-Eleven, Home Depot, and Lowe’s. Through NPI’s proprietary Evolution of Distribution® platform, the company helps domestic and international brands navigate the complexities of entering and scaling within the U.S. retail market. Gould also emphasized that veterans continue to make meaningful contributions to American society long after their military service ends, bringing their experience, leadership, and dedication to businesses, families, and communities across the country.
“Veterans Day reminds us that service to our country deserves lasting recognition,” Gould added. “Whether veterans are building businesses, raising families, mentoring others, or serving their communities, their contributions continue to make America stronger. We owe them our gratitude and respect.”
For readers in the business community, Gould’s message carries particular weight. As companies seek leaders who can navigate uncertainty and drive growth, the discipline and teamwork demonstrated by veterans are increasingly valuable assets. Gould’s own career, which includes founding Nutritional Products International, a global brand management and distribution company based in Boca Raton, Florida, illustrates how military-inspired values can translate into business success. NPI helps domestic and international health, wellness, sports nutrition, and personal care brands enter and expand in the U.S. marketplace through its Evolution of Distribution® platform, which provides an integrated approach to retail sales, distribution, logistics, regulatory support, and marketing.
Gould’s recognition of veterans also comes as businesses across the country continue to seek ways to honor and support those who have served. By highlighting the leadership qualities that veterans bring to the workplace, Gould hopes to encourage a broader appreciation for their contributions beyond Veterans Day. “Their example offers lessons that extend far beyond the military,” he said.
