Meet Dumars Franklin | Podcast creator and an Army officer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dumars Franklin and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dumars, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
My thought process behind starting my own business and launching To Whom It May Concern comes from years of experience, trial, and error. I’ve learned that creativity isn’t just a talent—it’s a tool for building the life you want. I’ve seen firsthand the power of investing in yourself, not just financially but mentally and emotionally. Taking control of your own future and narrative means refusing to let circumstances define you. With this podcast, I want to share those lessons, inspire others to take bold steps, and show that with the right mindset and actions, success is within reach

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My Art & What Sets Me Apart
My art is storytelling—through my voice, my experiences, and my ability to connect with others. As the creator of To Whom It May Concern, I use podcasting as a platform to inspire, educate, and empower people to take control of their own narrative. What sets me apart is my unique blend of experiences—being an Army officer, an Alabama A&M University graduate, and a creative entrepreneur. I bring structure, discipline, and resilience from my military background while combining it with the raw authenticity of someone who has learned through trial and error. My perspective is layered, and that’s something I embrace—I believe we should all have depth beyond a single title or skill.

What I’m most proud of is taking the leap to create something that aligns with my purpose. There’s nothing more fulfilling than knowing my story, lessons, and insights are helping others unlock their potential. The ability to connect with people through meaningful conversations and real experiences is what excites me the most about this journey.

My Professional Journey & Challenges
Getting to where I am today professionally was not easy. I’ve had to navigate setbacks, self-doubt, and moments where I questioned if I was on the right path. Balancing a military career while pursuing my creative passions has been a challenge, but it has also been one of my greatest strengths. I’ve learned that success is not about choosing one lane—it’s about mastering the art of integration.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of investment—not just financially, but in yourself. Investing in knowledge, mentorship, creativity, and even in failure has been key to my growth. I’ve learned that challenges aren’t roadblocks; they are redirections. Instead of fearing them, I embrace them as part of the process.

What I Want the World to Know
I want the world to know that To Whom It May Concern is more than just a podcast—it’s a movement. It’s for those who refuse to be boxed in, who believe in growth, and who are ready to take control of their future. My brand is about ownership, creativity, and resilience. It’s about understanding that you are not just a product of your circumstances—you are the author of your own story.

No matter where you come from or what you’ve been through, you have the power to shape your own destiny. And through this platform, I hope to inspire others to do just that.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
In the A, we have to hit up Fellowship for a cigar and to catch up—no real plans, just good vibes. I’m the type to go with the flow because no matter what the move is, it’s gone be a vibe regardless.

Now, when we’re in my city—Chicago (hence the name Franko CHI), there’s a non-negotiable rule: you’re flying into Midway. As a South Sider, I’m not making that trip to O’Hare. First things first, we’re grabbing some real Chicago food—whether it’s deep-dish pizza, Harold’s, or a pizza puff—something so good it’s borderline reckless for your heart.

After that, we’re hitting downtown and the lake, taking in the city, and just letting the energy guide us. No over-planning—just good food, good people, and the kind of vibe you only get in the Chi.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
First and foremost, I want to give a huge shoutout to the Army, which has instilled in me discipline, resilience, and the ability to navigate challenges with a strategic mindset. Serving as an Army officer has taught me the importance of leadership, adaptability, and taking ownership of my future.

I also want to recognize Alabama A&M University, a place that played a pivotal role in shaping me academically, professionally, and personally. My time at AAMU reinforced the values of perseverance, excellence, and community—lessons that continue to guide me today.

Of course, I wouldn’t be where I am without my family and close friends, who have always encouraged me to pursue my passions and push beyond my limits. Their unwavering support has been a driving force behind my growth.

A special shoutout goes to fellow creatives, entrepreneurs, and mentors who have shared their knowledge and experiences with me. Learning from those who have walked this path before me has been invaluable.

Lastly, books have played a huge role in shaping my mindset. Works like Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki, The War of Art by Steven Pressfield, and Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins have challenged my thinking and reinforced the importance of perseverance, creativity, and taking control of my own narrative.

To everyone who has poured into me—whether through guidance, inspiration, or simply believing in my vision—thank you. Your impact is woven into everything I do, and I hope to pay it forward through To Whom It May Concern.”

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