Building Opportunities Through Franchise Ownership with Bryan Denson, Air Force Veteran
Jul 10, 2026
“Success would mean creating a platform that gives veterans and military folks an opportunity to grow with me.” – Bryan Denson, Air Force Veteran
Bryan Denson is leading the expansion of Port of Subs across the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia region, building both company-owned locations and a network of future franchise owners. His vision extends beyond opening stores. He is creating opportunities for veterans, military families, and aspiring entrepreneurs to participate in business ownership and long-term wealth creation.
Before entering the franchise industry, Bryan spent more than three decades serving in the military, government, and corporate sectors. From Army infantry training and Air Force intelligence work to business development and leadership roles in the private sector, each experience reinforced a lesson that continues to guide him today: confidence is built by taking on challenges. He now applies those lessons to entrepreneurship while helping others pursue opportunities of their own.
In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Bryan about:
Lessons Learned Through Challenge: How military service, language training, and leadership experiences helped Bryan build the confidence to take on increasingly difficult opportunities throughout his career.
Why Port of Subs: What attracted Bryan to a growing franchise brand and the vision behind its expansion across the East Coast.
Building a Veteran-Centered Business Network: Creating opportunities for veteran-owned businesses, service providers, and future franchise owners to grow alongside one another.
From Store One to Store Seventy: The strategy behind launching the first location, developing the DMV region, and scaling long-term franchise operation.
Creating Opportunities for Others: Why success means helping veterans, military families, and aspiring entrepreneurs build their own path to business ownership.
Timestamps: 00:57 Bryan Military Roots
03:09 From Service to Corporate
04:22 Finding Port of Subs
06:01 Dual Role and Territory
07:47 First Store Launch Plan
09:21 Scaling and Veteran Network
11:16 Dave Vision and Culture
16:42 Defining Success and Impact
18:53 Challenges and Help Needed
21:07 Franchise Requirements and Financing
Connect with Bryan:
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A special thank you to Bryan for joining me this week. Until next time!
-Scott Mackes, USNA '01