Cut The Tie Podcast with Michael Parks
Episode 288

What does it look like to cut ties with comfort and start over—again and again? In this inspiring episode of Cut the Tie, Thomas Helfrich sits down with Michael Parks, Air Force veteran, retired federal air marshal, and founder of Daystar Photography. From national security to creative entrepreneurship, Michael's story is one of mission-driven pivots, meaningful reinvention, and serving fellow veterans with passion and purpose.

Michael opens up about his transition from military to photography, how patience became his business superpower, and why letting go of low-paying gigs was the key to scaling. It’s a masterclass in value, alignment, and never losing sight of your why.

About Michael Parks:
Michael Parks is the founder of Daystar Photography and a U.S. Air Force veteran who spent over two decades as a federal air marshal. Today, he specializes in veteran-centered photography—capturing events, personal brands, and milestones for veterans and their families. His work has taken him nationwide, earning recognition across the military entrepreneurship ecosystem for his integrity, creativity, and commitment to community storytelling.

In this episode, Thomas and Michael discuss:

• How photography became a second mission
  Michael shares how a Sam’s Club Nikon gifted by his mom sparked a creative journey—and how he balanced it with 22 years of service as a federal air marshal.
• Why he built a business around veterans
  Tired of the lack of representation at expos and conferences, Michael made it his mission to uplift veteran entrepreneurs through storytelling and visibility.
• The tie he had to cut to grow
  Michael realized that chasing dozens of low-paying local gigs wasn’t scalable—and made the bold decision to focus on high-value clients and national contracts.
• Lessons in patience from military to entrepreneurship
  From "pivot fast and execute" to "wait, ride the wave, and stay the course," Michael explains how patience became his new strategy for sustainable success.

Key Takeaways:

• Delay is not denial
  Entrepreneurship demands patience. You’re not failing—you’re learning how to endure and adapt.
• You can’t scale on burnout
  If the business model only works by sacrificing your energy and peace, it doesn’t work. Period.
• Price reflects value—and mindset
  Once Michael learned what top companies actually pay, he stopped lowballing himself and started building a premium brand.
• Legacy starts with representation
  Veterans deserve to be seen. Michael’s mission is to help them show up boldly, proudly, and professionally.

Connect with Michael Parks:
🌐 Website: daystarphoto.com
📞 Phone: (404) 207-0810

💼 LinkedIn: Michael Parks

Connect with Thomas Helfrich:
🐦 Twitter: @thelfrich
📘 Facebook: Cut the Tie Group
💼 LinkedIn: Thomas Helfrich
🌐 Website: www.cutthetie.com
📧 Email: [email protected]
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