Episode # 010: Frank Manteau, “We Were Selling a Piece of Our History”

In the latest episode of The Warrior Rising Podcast, we had the pleasure of hearing from Frank Manteau, a Marine Corps veteran and co-founder of Crayons Ready-to-Eat. The conversation delved into Frank’s transition from military service to entrepreneurship, offering insights into how he turned a playful military stereotype into a thriving business with a mission far beyond profit.

Frank Manteau’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and a deep commitment to his fellow veterans. After serving in the Marine Corps, Frank faced the same challenges many veterans encounter when transitioning to civilian life: finding a new purpose, a new mission. However, Frank’s journey took an unexpected turn when he decided to capitalize on a long-standing military joke—that Marines eat crayons. What started as a joke quickly became an idea for a business that would not only provide a unique product but also create a sense of camaraderie among veterans.

Frank shared, “I knew that there was something more to this joke. It wasn’t just about the crayons; it was about the culture, the connection, and the camaraderie that we as veterans share. I wanted to create something that would celebrate that.”

Crayons Ready-to-Eat might have started as a humorous take on a military stereotype, but Frank and his team have turned it into something much more meaningful. The edible crayons they produce are not just a novelty item; they represent a shared experience among veterans and serve as a reminder of the bonds formed during service.

“One of the things that surprised us the most was how quickly the veteran community embraced the product,” Frank noted. “We weren’t just selling crayons; we were selling a piece of our culture, a piece of our history.”

Frank emphasized that the mission of CRE extends beyond the product itself. It’s about building bridges between veterans and civilians, fostering understanding, and supporting veterans’ mental health and well-being. The company has become a platform for veterans to connect, share their stories, and support one another.

Like many entrepreneurs, Frank faced significant challenges in getting his business off the ground. From sourcing the right ingredients to ensuring the crayons were safe to eat, the journey was far from easy. But Frank’s military background equipped him with the discipline and determination needed to overcome these obstacles.

Frank also highlighted the importance of having a strong support system. His co-founder and team members played a crucial role in turning the vision of CRE into a reality. The collaborative effort reflects the teamwork and camaraderie that are hallmarks of military service, values that Frank has carried into his business endeavors.

One of the most inspiring aspects of Frank’s story is his commitment to giving back to the veteran community. CRE isn’t just about selling a product; it’s about making a positive impact. The company donates a portion of its profits to veteran-focused charities and organizations that support mental health, transition assistance, and other critical services.

“We wanted to make sure that we were doing something good with this platform,” Frank said. “There are so many veterans out there who are struggling, and if we can use our business to help even a few of them, then it’s worth it.”

Frank’s dedication to his fellow veterans is evident in every aspect of CRE. The company regularly collaborates with veteran artists, entrepreneurs, and organizations, creating a network of support and opportunity for those who have served.

Humor has always been a coping mechanism for those in the military, and Frank has harnessed this power in a unique way. The playful nature of CRE’s product has brought laughter and joy to countless veterans, serving as a reminder that even in the toughest of times, there’s always room for a little humor.

“Laughter is something that brings us together,” Frank shared. “When you’re in the military, you go through a lot of tough situations, and sometimes all you have is humor to get you through. That’s what we wanted to capture with Crayons Ready-to-Eat.”

Frank believes that the success of CRE is largely due to its ability to connect with people on a personal level. The product resonates with veterans because it’s rooted in their shared experiences, but it also appeals to civilians who appreciate the creativity and story behind it.

As CRE continues to grow, Frank has big plans for the future. He envisions expanding the product line, collaborating with more veteran artists, and increasing the company’s philanthropic efforts. But no matter how big CRE becomes, Frank is committed to staying true to the company’s roots and mission.

“We’re just getting started,” Frank said with a smile. “There’s so much more we want to do, and I’m excited for what the future holds. But no matter what, we’re going to stay focused on our mission—to bring veterans together, to support them, and to keep the humor alive.”

Frank’s journey from the Marine Corps to entrepreneurship is a testament to the power of resilience, creativity, and community. Through Crayons Ready-to-Eat, he has created more than just a business; he has built a bridge between the military and civilian worlds, one crayon at a time.

Frank Manteau’s story is one that resonates with many veterans and entrepreneurs alike. His ability to turn a simple joke into a successful business, while staying true to his values and mission, is truly inspiring. Through Crayons Ready-to-Eat, Frank has created a platform that not only celebrates military culture but also supports and uplifts the veteran community. As he looks to the future, there’s no doubt that Frank will continue to make a positive impact, both in business and in the lives of those who have served.