Marc Vihnanek - 850 Froyo and Kwench Juice Cafe
Marc Vihnanek, a native of Pensacola, Florida, is a driven entrepreneur and proud U.S. Army veteran. After spending nine years serving as an officer in the Army, Marc returned to the Florida Gulf Coast in 2021 and quickly planted deep roots in the Destin community. His transition from military service to business ownership reflects the same dedication, discipline, and leadership that defined his time in uniform.
Since settling back in Destin, Marc has launched and operated a trio of thriving businesses that capture the spirit and energy of coastal living. He is the proud owner of Kwench Juice Cafe, a vibrant health-focused spot offering fresh juices, smoothies, and wellness bowls. He also owns 850 Froyo, a fun and family-friendly frozen yogurt destination, and Cruisin’ Tikis Destin, a unique boating experience that lets guests cruise the emerald waters aboard floating tiki bars.
Marc’s ventures reflect his passion for health, hospitality, and the outdoors — all cornerstones of life in Destin. With a commitment to excellent service and community engagement, he has built strong connections throughout the area, contributing to both the local economy and the Destin lifestyle.
Whether on land or water, Marc continues to lead by example, applying the values of his military background to every aspect of his businesses. His story is one of service, resilience, and a deep appreciation for the community he now calls home.
Nate Scopac – The Airedale Group LLC. & Collins Aerospace
Nate develops a global defense strategy for Collins Aerospace, drawing on decades of experience in aviation and national security. He previously served 25 years in the U.S. Air Force as a special operations pilot, finishing his career as a group commander at Hurlburt Field. Nate and his family first arrived on the Emerald Coast in 1999. What began as a short-term assignment became a nine-year stay, and in 2019, they were excited to return. They were drawn back by the area’s excellent schools, welcoming community, and the natural beauty they fell in love with years ago.
Guided by the Air Force core value of “service before self,” Nate remains committed to serving others. He sits on the Advisory Board of the Special Operations Transition Foundation, helping veterans turn their military experience into successful civilian careers. As Fundraising Chair for the Air Commando Heritage Foundation, he’s leading efforts to build a world-class museum in Fort Walton Beach honoring Air Commando history. “Veterans and their families have sacrificed so much—it’s the least we can do to support their next chapter and honor their heroics,” he says.
Outside of work, Nate supports his wife Cynthia’s equestrian career as treasurer of the Sand and Spur Riding Club and enjoys watching their 14-year-old daughter ride. Married for over 25 years, Nate and Cynthia have two children: Olivia, an 8th grader at Okaloosa STEMM Academy, and Noah, a freshman at Virginia Military Institute in the USAF ROTC. You might spot him flying his 65-year-old warbird over the Emerald Coast when he's not at a lacrosse game.
Austin Jones - Building Brands and Data Freedom from the Emerald Coast
Born and raised in Destin, Florida, Austin Jones is a hometown entrepreneur with a global vision. As the Chief Marketing Officer of FIGHT.TV—a worldwide combat sports media platform—Austin has helped revolutionize the way fans engage with MMA, boxing, and grappling across continents. But his influence doesn't stop there.
Austin is also the Founder and CEO of Business Goals Group, a consulting firm dedicated to helping businesses grow smarter and scale faster. From startups to established companies, his team specializes in brand development, strategic marketing, software solutions, and operations consulting. With a keen eye for innovation and a passion for helping others succeed, Austin has become a go to strategist for entrepreneurs across the country.
Beyond business growth, Austin is deeply committed to building a more data-autonomous society. One where individuals own and control their personal information. In 2018, he founded Unity Health Score, a pioneering medtech startup focused on giving patients a spot at the healthcare industry negotiating table with true ownership of their medical data. While Unity Health Score has evolved through many chapters, a major rebrand and relaunch is scheduled for summer 2025, signaling the next step in Austin’s mission to empower people through technology. The world’s first interactive dataset could revolutionize the informatics industry.
Whether he’s building brands, empowering people with data, or redefining how we engage with digital ecosystems, Austin Jones is proof that innovation and integrity can start right here on the Emerald Coast.
Leonardo Rosas - Mighty Remodeling LLC
"My name is Leonardo Rosas and ten years ago, I made the life-changing decision to move from Colombia to the United States, chasing a dream of building a better future for myself and my family. With a strong work ethic, determination, and a passion for craftsmanship, I found my calling in the construction industry.
Starting from scratch in a new country wasn’t easy. I faced challenges like learning a new language, adapting to a different business culture, and establishing a reputation in a competitive market. However, my commitment to quality workmanship and customer satisfaction has helped me gain trust and grow steadily.
I started my own company in 2021 called Mighty Remodeling LLC. Every construction project I take on is an opportunity to showcase my skills and bring my clients’ visions to life. Whether it’s flooring installation of hardwood, laminate, tile, or luxury vinyl, or complete Kitchen and Bathroom remodeling, I take pride in delivering durable, beautiful results. My goal is not just to install floors but to transform spaces and exceed expectations.
Building a business from the ground up requires perseverance, but I believe in the value of hard work and integrity. I am grateful for every opportunity and every customer who has trusted me with their homes and businesses. As I continue to grow, I look forward to expanding my services and making a lasting impact in the industry."
Andy Bueno - lpt realty
Andy Bueno is a military veteran turned Realtor serving Florida’s beautiful Emerald Coast. After retiring from the United States Marine Corps with 28 years of honorable service, Andy
transitioned from military leadership to real estate, bringing his strong values of integrity,
discipline, and commitment to every client relationship. In 2023, he joined forces with his wife, Stephanie, combining their passion for helping others into a dynamic real estate team.
Andy is not only a trusted real estate professional but also an experienced investor. He owns multiple investment properties and serves as the president of his HOA board, where he helps shape and maintain the quality of his community. His firsthand knowledge of property ownership and management brings an added layer of insight for clients looking to invest.
Beyond real estate, Andy continues to give back by volunteering with the Young Marines
program. He’s passionate about mentoring youth, teaching them the value of discipline,
teamwork, and leadership—skills that shaped his own journey.
Whether you're buying, selling, or investing, Andy Bueno brings a mission-focused mindset, deep local knowledge, and a heart for service to help you accomplish your real estate goals.
Brandon Hawthorne - Native Fires 30A
12 years on the sun-kissed shores of the Emerald Coast, Brandon Hawthorne’s heart has always danced to the rhythm of the waves. Today, I find joy in passing that love for the beach to my son. As a parent, my mission is clear: I want to raise him not just to be successful but to be a kind human being, someone who brings joy to others.
This passion led me to launch Nativefires, a family-owned beach bonfire company that embodies the spirit of my home. Each bonfire we create is more than just a glow in the sand; it’s a celebration of life, laughter, and togetherness under the starlit sky. I cherish the memories we make while roasting marshmallows and telling stories around the fire.
Through this business, I’m teaching my son invaluable lessons in entrepreneurship, teaching him the importance of hard work, creativity, and community. I want him to understand that success isn’t just measured in profits, but in the smiles, we share with friends and the memories we create together.
Every day on the beach reminds me of life’s simple joys, and I strive to ensure that my son grows up appreciating that beauty. In raising him to be his own boss in this world, I hope to instill a sense of responsibility and kindness in him so that he can light up the lives of others just as bonfires do.
“The Emerald Coast’s hardworking people are what make it so special. That’s why I’m proud to give back and raise my family here,” Nate said.
"I’m committed to supporting local businesses and initiatives, giving back through mentoring, volunteer work, and investing in projects that uplift the Destin community." Austin Jones