Number 379 June 5, 2026 St. Louis
From Combat Boots to Countertops: Building a Business with Purpose
For many veterans, the transition from military service to civilian life comes with a single pressing question: What’s next?
For Roland Cousins, the founder of Get A Grip, the answer was not found in a business plan or a boardroom. It began with a family to support and a determination to create opportunities where none seemed to exist.
After leaving the Army, entrepreneurship was not part of the plan. Survival was.
Armed with little more than ambition and a stack of homemade cleaning flyers, he began knocking on doors throughout his neighborhood, offering cleaning services to anyone willing to give him a chance. One customer led to another. Referrals followed. What started as a small effort to provide for his family steadily grew into a successful commercial cleaning business serving churches, organizations, and major hospital kitchens throughout the region.
The experience taught him a valuable lesson: success is often built one relationship at a time.
As the business matured, another passion began calling his name. Long interested in real estate investing and home improvement, he found himself searching for an opportunity that would allow him to combine entrepreneurship with his love for transforming spaces.
That search led him to franchising.
business owners, he initially assumed franchise ownership was financially out of reach. Through guidance from a mentor through the SBA, he began exploring what would actually be possible. His mentor encouraged him to attend the SCORE Conference, a decision that would prove to be a turning point in his entrepreneurial journey.
While attending the conference, he met Yolanda Nelson and Peyton McGovern from Justine PETERSEN. Their conversations introduced him to the resources, guidance, and financing opportunities available through the organization. More importantly, he found people who understood the challenges many entrepreneurs face when trying to grow a business and access capital.
“Justine PETERSEN wasn’t simply offering a loan,” he explained. “They were offering a pathway.”
As he continued researching franchise opportunities, one company continually stood out: Get A Grip.
The more he learned, the more convinced he became. Existing franchise owners spoke highly of the support they received. The company’s culture focused on helping franchisees succeed. Most importantly, the business model aligned with his vision of creating something lasting while delivering real value to customers.
With support, guidance, and access to resources through Justine PETERSEN, he was able to move forward with confidence and turn that vision into reality.
Roland Cousins and Get A Grip offer homeowners and businesses an innovative alternative to traditional remodeling. Rather than tearing out countertops, bathtubs, and shower surfaces and sending them to landfills, the company utilizes patented equipment and proprietary materials to restore and transform existing fixtures. The result is a beautiful, high-end finish achieved at a fraction of the cost and waste associated with full replacement.
For the founder, this approach represents more than a business opportunity. It reflects a commitment to sustainability, craftsmanship, and responsible growth.
The launch of Get A Grip has also become a family endeavor. Drawing on the experience of a relative with extensive construction and home improvement expertise, the business combines technical knowledge with a shared dedication to quality workmanship and customer service.
While the company continues to grow, its mission remains simple: create opportunities.
Whether that means helping homeowners reimagine their spaces, reducing unnecessary waste, or creating stable jobs within the community, the goal is to leave things better than they were found.
Looking back, it is remarkable to see how far the journey has come. What began with a handful of flyers and a determination to provide for a family has evolved into a specialized business serving residential and commercial customers throughout the community.
His story is a reminder that entrepreneurship is rarely a straight line. Success often comes from being willing to learn, ask questions, build relationships, and seize opportunities when they appear.
For one veteran turned entrepreneur, a conversation at a SCORE Conference, the support of a trusted mentor, and a connection with Justine PETERSEN helped transform a dream into a thriving business.
Roland Cousins and Get A Grip stand as proof that with determination, the right support system, and a commitment to quality, it is possible to build more than a business. It is possible to build a legacy.
Level Up St. Louis – Connecting Entrepreneurs, Building Opportunities
What happens when entrepreneurs, industry experts, and community partners come together in one room?
Powerful conversations. Meaningful connections. Valuable resources.
On May 30, Justine PETERSEN was proud to partner with Verizon and Selfmade to host the St. Louis Entrepreneurial Experience, bringing together business owners, aspiring entrepreneurs, and community leaders for a day dedicated to learning, networking, and growth.
Throughout the event, attendees participated in engaging discussions focused on entrepreneurship, technology, artificial intelligence, and strategies for building stronger businesses. Participants had the opportunity to connect with resource providers, learn from experienced professionals, and discover tools designed to help them navigate the challenges and opportunities of business ownership.
A highlight of the event was an inspiring keynote presentation from Melinda Emerson, one of the nation’s leading small business experts. Her message encouraged entrepreneurs to embrace innovation, remain adaptable, and continue investing in their growth.
Level Up St. Louis’ Panel
The event also featured a dynamic panel discussion with Rochelle Bea, Denale Powell, Michelle Perkins, and Serah Washington, who shared valuable insights from their professional and entrepreneurial journeys. Their perspectives reinforced the importance of building relationships, seeking mentorship, and leveraging available resources.
One memorable takeaway came from Serah Washington of Associated Bank, who reminded attendees:
“It’s not only about what you know, but who you know and who knows you.”
That message perfectly captured the spirit of the day. Business success is built not only through knowledge and hard work, but also through the connections and partnerships that help entrepreneurs thrive.
Justine PETERSEN says thank you!
Justine PETERSEN extends its sincere gratitude to Verizon, Selfmade, Associated Bank, our speakers and panelists, community partners, and every attendee who helped make this event a success.
We are creating opportunities, supporting entrepreneurs, and building stronger businesses and stronger communities throughout the St. Louis region.
Not yet part of the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready platform? Join for free to get started on growing your business before the event!
Verizon is giving grants to small businesses every month. Check out more through the Digital Ready website!
https://digitalready.verizonwireless.com/partner-brit-and-co
Upcoming Events
Our next in-person Lunch and Learn will be held at Elevator St. Louis with Elizabeth Wade!
Grow Your Business This Year!
Join the free Lunch-and-Learn Series brought to you by efactory and Missouri State University
We’re excited to share that the Show-Me Network, in partnership with Justine PETERSEN, is launching a yearlong series of FREE virtual Lunch-and-Learns for entrepreneurs and small business owners across Missouri.
These no-cost sessions will provide practical guidance on funding, credit, financial management, and business growth—designed to meet entrepreneurs where they are and help them move forward with confidence.
⏰ All sessions are held online from Noon–1 p.m. (CT)
💻 Open to all Missouri entrepreneurs at no cost
Register Today!
All sessions are free and open to the public.
View the full calendar and register here:
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain practical tools, expert insight, and connections that support your business growth in 2026.
Ignite Illinois: Empowering Small Business Owners in Southern Illinois!
Ignite Illinois is here to fuel your small business aspirations!
Are you a small business owner in Southern Illinois? Ignite Illinois is your opportunity to access essential funding and support services to grow and strengthen your business. Whether you need accounting help, legal guidance, or tools to boost your credit, we’re here to assist!
Don’t miss this chance to invest in your future and take your business to the next level!
Have questions? Please reach out to Peyton McGovern at @pmcgovern@justinepetersen.org.
Protection is Everything, Even With Credit
June is here… and so are the scammers
A new month means new opportunities—but unfortunately, it can also mean new cyber threats. June is a great time to give your digital security a quick check-up and make sure you’re protecting what matters most.
From suspicious emails and fake text messages to password theft and online scams, cybercriminals are constantly seeking ways to access personal information. The good news? A few simple steps can go a long way.
✅ Use strong, unique passwords for your accounts
✅ Turn on two-factor authentication whenever possible
✅ Be cautious of unexpected emails, texts, or links
✅ Keep your devices and software up to date
✅ Regularly monitor your financial and online accounts
Think of cybersecurity like locking your front door—you might not think about it every day, but it’s one of the easiest ways to protect yourself and your family.
This June, take a few minutes to strengthen your digital defenses. Your future self will thank you.
👉 Need more tips on protecting your personal and financial information? Stay connected with Justine PETERSEN for resources and tools to help you stay safe and informed. 🔐💻✨.
Contact Cameron Stuhl for details! cstuhl@justinepetersen.org
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Justine Petersen Housing and Reinvestment Corporation · 1023 N Grand Blvd · Saint Louis, MO 63106-1641 · USA