Veterans and the Tools That Keep Us Sharp
Knives have always been more than just tools for veterans-they’re symbols of skill, precision, and independence. But what happens when injuries or years of service-related wear make it harder to use the tools you once mastered? Doug Katz, a West Point graduate and disabled Army veteran, saw firsthand how physical limitations can steal confidence in the kitchen. So, he did what veterans do best. He adapted and overcame, creating the NULU Knife, a tool designed to give control back to those who need it most.
In this episode, Doug shares his journey from the military to entrepreneurship and how he developed an adaptive knife that goes beyond making cooking easier-it helps veterans regain confidence and control in the kitchen. Whether you’re dealing with combat injuries, arthritis, or aging joints, this conversation will change how you think about the tools you use daily.
We also get into the veteran mindset regarding using gear, why traditional kitchen knives don’t work for everyone, and how small innovations can make a huge impact on everyday life. If you’ve ever struggled with something that used to feel second nature, this episode is for you.
Timestamps:
- 00:06:00 – Innovating adaptive tools
- 00:09:00 – Personal struggles that sparked the NULU Knife
- 00:22:00 – Why smart design benefits everyone, not just those with disabilities
- 00:34:00 – The connection between military innovation and everyday problem-solving
- 00:44:00 – Encouraging veterans to turn their challenges into business opportunities
Links & Resources
- Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
- Website: https://nuluknives.com
- Follow Douglas Katz on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/d.m.katz/
- Follow Douglas Katz on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/douglaskatz/