Episodes
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"Scan everything, man. Make copies of everything."In this conversation, John and Victor discuss various themes surrounding recent violent events, the importance of community support for Veterans, and the challenges faced during the transition from military to civilian life. They emphasize the need for unity in society, the impact of media consumption on mental health, and provide important updates regarding TRICARE and medical records. The discussion highlights personal experiences and reflections on the current state of the nation, advocating for a more supportive and understanding environment for all.They also discuss the importance of managing medical records, the availability of legal services for homeless veterans, and the transition to civilian life, particularly in cybersecurity. They conclude with emphasis and the significance of networking and finding purpose in life, while also sharing personal experiences and resources available for veterans.00:00 Introduction and Context of Recent Events03:10 Reflections on Violence and Division in Society12:23 International Perspectives and Support for the U.S.18:07 Life After Military Service: Opportunities and Challenges28:36 Mental Health and Wellness: Personal Experiences36:41 Navigating Media Consumption and Information Overload48:03 Important Updates on TRICARE and Medical Records51:29 Managing Medical Records Effectively57:18 Legal Services for Homeless Veterans01:03:48 Navigating Legal Assistance and Resources01:12:05 Transitioning to Cybersecurity Careers01:20:20 Networking for Success in Civilian Life01:25:18 Finding Purpose and Joy in Life
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Mike McDonald, CEO of Truevana, shares his insights on transitioning out of the military on medical retirement and finding purpose in life. https://www.truevana.com/
Mike emphasizes the importance of taking the time to process the changes and set new patterns and habits. He talks about the surprises and challenges he faced during his military career as an Army Special Forces operator and how he adapted to unexpected circumstances. He also highlights the significance of authentic relationships and networking in both personal and professional life. Mike provides advice on navigating the med board process and the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) for a successful transition. Truvana is a relocation marketplace that connects service members to the products and services they need during PCS. They aim to make the frequent and disjointed moves easier for service members and help them discover how to build wealth during their time in service. Truvana offers services such as packing and shipping household goods, coordinating with housing requirements, property management, and connecting service members with job opportunities. They provide personalized support based on each service member's needs and offer resources for education and networking. Truvana's goal is to become the first service member support network.
00:00 Processing Changes and Setting New Patterns
18:27 The Power of Authentic Relationships and Networking
30:51 Navigating the Med Board Process and Planning for the Transition
35:06 Making the Most of the Transition Assistance Program (TAP)
37:02 Surrounding Yourself with People Who Are Better Than You
39:37 Setting Yourself Up for Success in Any Situation
44:06 Identifying and Solving Unresolved Problems
49:36 Reflecting on Past Experiences and Providing Advice to Younger Self
57:01 Delivering a TED Talk to Military Members in Transition
01:05:03 Introducing Truvana and its Services
01:09:49 Understanding the Nuances of Property Management
01:15:39 Wrapping Up the Conversation and Contacting Truvana
############Links###############
🔗 All of my recording/editing equipment can be found here: https://kit.co/Chief_McConnell/john-mcconnell
🔗 @riversidefm - https://riverside.fm/?utm_campaign=campaign_2&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=rewardful&via=john-mcconnell
🔗 Truevana FB page - https://www.facebook.com/truevana/🔗 Truevana IG - https://www.instagram.com/truevana/🔗 Truevana on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/truevanainc
############Books###############
📚 The Bottom Line Up Front - Preorder 4 Oct release - https://amzn.to/3yWSH6Z
To all the brave men and women out there still protecting our freedom 🇺🇸 🫡 Thank you for your service!
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Missing episodes?
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Eric Dominijanni discusses his military career and transition out of the service, his motivation for joining the military, his experiences in the Marine Corps, and the challenges he faced during his transition. Find Eric and his Scotch brand https://www.fiorscotch.com/
He emphasizes the importance of finding purpose and staying busy after leaving the military, as well as maintaining connections with fellow service members. Dominijanni also highlights the need for leaders to use their staff effectively and to consider the diverse backgrounds and beliefs of their team members. During his time in the military, Eric formed strong bonds with his fellow Marines and developed leadership skills. He shares stories of his experiences, including being invited to stay with his translator from Iraq and being welcomed by his translator's wife. Eric emphasized that while he is grateful for the recognition, he doesn't consider himself a hero, but rather someone who did the right thing. He also discussed his passion for cooking and how it led him to start his own scotch company, Fior. With the guidance of his business partner, Eric navigated the challenges of starting a business and found success. In this final part of the conversation, Eric discusses the challenges of working with civilian employees compared to service members. He emphasizes the importance of clear communication and setting expectations. John also introduces the SkillBridge program, which allows military service members to apprentice with a company during their last six months of active duty. Eric expresses interest in the program and discusses his desire to have more veterans and minorities involved in his business. He also shares his passion for his Scotch brand and the satisfaction he feels when seeing it in restaurants. The conversation concludes with Eric encouraging retirees to pursue their passions and find fulfillment in their post-military careers.
00:00 Motivations for Joining the Military
05:58 Camaraderie and Challenges in the Marine Corps
23:53 Transitioning Out of the Military
37:26 Reconnecting and Making Memories
43:02 The Impact of Leadership and Relationships
48:05 - Robert Luna Journey
49:51 Reflecting on the Past and Giving Advice
54:49 How I filleted Bobby Flay at 49 Palms
56:06 Pursuing Passion and Finding Fulfillment
01:00:07 Starting a Business: Mentorship and Risk-Taking
01:04:44 Transitioning from the military to entrepreneurship
01:07:05 Communication expectations with employees
01:13:45 Importance of diversity in the workplace
01:18:59 Following your passion and creating opportunities
01:25:34 Memorable moments and achievements
01:31:05 Appreciating the complexity of Scotch
01:33:43 Personal preference for dark red wines
01:37:01 Further exploration of the SkillBridge program
############Links###############
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🔗 @riversidefm - https://riverside.fm/?utm_campaign=campaign_2&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=rewardful&via=john-mcconnell
To all the brave men and women out there still protecting our freedom 🇺🇸 🫡 Thank you for your service!
some links may result in commissions for the site
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John McConnell discusses the importance of expanding the military retirement community and the need for more resources and information. https://militaryretirementpodcast.com/resources
Joey Laswell, a financial social worker, joins the conversation and they discuss the importance of personalized financial counseling and the role of financial therapy in addressing the behavioral side of personal finance. The integration of AI into financial management is a topic of interest. AI can be a strategic tool to help with finances, but there are ethical concerns. The potential for AI in personal finance is still emerging, but it could be used to manage finances better. AI has the potential to provide personalized financial breakdowns and plans. However, there are limitations and privacy concerns that need to be addressed. Having a financial cushion is important during transitions, and managing debt and building an emergency fund can be done simultaneously. Finding one's purpose and passion post-military is crucial for a successful transition. In this conversation, John McConnell and his guest discuss the importance of military content creators and the need for more veteran-produced content to reach a wider audience. They emphasize the value of transparency and open discussions about topics like mental health and substance abuse. They also highlight the importance of giving veterans a voice and creating spaces for dialogue and interaction. The conversation then shifts to the VR&E program, with both speakers sharing their positive experiences and encouraging veterans to explore this resource for education and career support. They discuss the application process, the role of counselors, and the potential benefits of the program. Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of supporting and empowering veterans through various platforms and programs.
00:00 Introduction and Book Update
04:41 Expanding the Military Retirement Community
07:04 Introduction of Joey Laswell
11:10 The Role of Personalized Financial Counseling
18:48 Addressing Behavioral Aspects of Personal Finance through Financial Therapy
41:40 Integration of AI into Financial Management
52:46 The Importance of a Financial Cushion during Transition
59:26 Managing Debt and Building an Emergency Fund
01:13:29 The Psychological Aspects of Financial Planning and Finding Purpose
01:23:21 The Impact of Military Content Creators
01:26:11 The Importance of Transparency and Open Discussions
01:30:58 Maximizing the Benefits of the VR&E Program
01:34:57 Opportunities for Education and Career Development
01:57:59 The Power of Support in the Military Community
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Colonel (RET) David Grant, former Army SFL Director, who just hung up his boots after 30 years in the Army talks about his transition and a novel he has published post military service. https://amzn.to/4fqoHR9 - What Are We Going To Do With Tyrone Jr.?
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. These earnings directly support the channel.
We're diving into his journey, the highs and lows, and the valuable lessons he learned along the way. Whether you're just starting your military career, approaching retirement, or reflecting on your service, there’s something here for everyone!
0:00 - Introduction and Welcome
1:15 - Meet Colonel (RET) David Grant former SFL Director
1:41 - How David Decided to Join the Military
3:34 - Military Life: Expectations vs. Reality
5:53 - The Military Family and Support System
7:06 - Wrapping Up 30 Years of Service
9:12 - The Transition Out: Conversations and Planning
12:50 - First Weeks After Retirement and the BDD Program
16:31 - Navigating VA Claims
20:09 - Reflecting on Service and Transition Insights
24:26 - Understanding differences between TAP and Soldier for Life
31:11 - The Importance of Personal Branding and Networking
34:40 - Support from Soldier for Life for Veterans
39:37 - Financial Prep for Your Transition
46:47 - Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways
############Links###############
🔗 All of my recording/editing equipment can be found here: https://kit.co/Chief_McConnell/john-mcconnell
🔗 @riversidefm - https://riverside.fm/?utm_campaign=campaign_2&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=rewardful&via=john-mcconnell
🔗 Marines for Life - https://usmc-mccs.org
🔗 David's Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-grant-dba/
🔗 EFMP - https://www.militaryonesource.mil/special-needs/efmp/
🔗 David's Bookcase - https://davidsbookcase.com/
To all the brave men and women out there still protecting our freedom 🇺🇸 🫡 Thank you for your service!
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Tune in for expert guidance and support from military veterans who have successfully navigated the journey themselves. https://militaryretirementpodcast.com/resourcesJoin John and Victor in this insightful podcast episode as they explore the essential steps for a smooth military retirement transition. Covering personal stories, financial planning tips, and practical advice, they provide valuable insights on maximizing TSP contributions, managing debt, and utilizing the VR&E program. Learn how to declutter and embrace minimalism, discover key resources like MillCon Money 2024, and get answers to listener questions about career planning post-retirement. Timestamps:00:00 - Intro01:00 - John and Victor introduce the topic of military retirement and what listeners can expect in this episode.Personal Stories and Experiences03:37 - a story about the hectic week of moving and settling into a new home.06:20 - the challenges of dealing with accumulated stuff and the minimalist rule he follows.09:15 - donating old military gear and the quirks of thrift shops on military bases.Financial Advice and Strategies15:00 - the importance of decluttering and selling unused items before PCS moves.18:25 - financial planning, maxing out TSP contributions, and living simply.22:50 - How John and his wife managed their finances by living on one income and saving the other.Listener Questions and Answers28:40 - a listener's question about managing debt and financial planning three years before retirement.35:00 - Discussing the VR&E program, its benefits, and how to apply.40:45 - insights on finding and utilizing labor market information for career planning post-retirement.Community Engagement and Resources47:20 - Shoutout to the @FIREsocialworker and tips on engaging with military communities.50:00 - Information about MillCon Money 2024 and its importance for military personnel.55:30 - Closing remarks############Links###############🔗 All of my recording/editing equipment can be found here: https://kit.co/Chief_McConnell/john-mcconnell 🔗 @riversidefm - https://riverside.fm/?utm_campaign=campaign_2&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=rewardful&via=john-mcconnellTo all the brave men and women out there still protecting our freedom 🇺🇸 🫡 Thank you for your service! some links may result in commissions for the site
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Lisa Benson, an Army veteran, shares her experiences and insights on transitioning out of the military and the challenges veterans face. Find out about Lisa and what she is doing for Veterans at https://debelladeball.com/
She discusses the importance of supporting veterans and helping them thrive, not just survive. Lisa also highlights the struggles of dealing with PTSD and the gaps in the support system for veterans. Her journey of self-discovery and determination to help others forms the core of the conversation. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including journaling, mental health, medication, mentorship, education, personal branding, and life planning. Lisa shares her personal experiences and insights, offering valuable advice for transitioning from military to civilian life and finding fulfillment. The discussion also delves into the impact of technology on younger generations and the evolving choices available to them. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including personal branding, marketing, business strategies, and mental health support for veterans. Lisa Benson shares insights on personal branding, influencer marketing, and the importance of authenticity. She also discusses her work with veterans, business strategies, and the significance of documenting medical records. The conversation emphasizes the value of community support and resources for veterans.
Soundbites:
"You're going to go through the cycles of grief and loss.""The significance of documenting medical records and seeking mental health support for veterans transitioning out of the military."
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Conversation
02:59 Joining the Military: Financial Struggles and Decision-Making
08:09 Expectations vs. Reality of Military Life
12:55 Transitioning Out: VA Claims and Support System
25:03 Supporting Veterans and Family Life Challenges
31:53 Coping Strategies and Self-Discovery
35:51 Navigating Medication and Mental Health
43:54 The Role of Mentorship in Personal and Professional Development
50:01 Crafting Your Personal Brand for Success
57:33 Life Planning and Finding Fulfillment
01:03:00 The Impact of Technology on Younger Generations and Career Choices
01:06:45 Evolving Retirement Benefits and Career Transitions
01:09:32 Influencer Marketing Realities and Misconceptions
01:12:12 Supporting Veterans: Documentation, Mental Health, and Community############ Links ###############🔗 All of my recording/editing equipment can be found here: https://kit.co/Chief_McConnell/john-mcconnell 🔗 @riversidefm - https://riverside.fm/?utm_campaign=campaign_2&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=rewardful&via=john-mcconnell
############ Books ###############📚 10X is better than 2X - https://amzn.to/4d5D8bd📚 Can Hurt Me - Master Your Mind and Defy the Odds - https://amzn.to/4cKfyBfTo all the brave men and women out there still protecting our freedom 🇺🇸 🫡 Thank you for your service! * links may result in commissions for the site and as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
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Today we discuss how life is going for us after we exited the military. Including updates that may affect veterans, and an update with our previous guest, Robert Luna, while he hikes across America.FDA Vote for stage 3 clinical trials for MDMA - https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20240620-fda-advisors-voted-against-mdma-therapy-researchers-are-still-fighting-for-itHow to do great things - by Paul Graham - https://www.paulgraham.com/greatwork.html?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=emailHappy 80th anniversary to the GI Bill - https://x.com/vavetbenefits/status/1804495828075118907?s=46&t=IPAUC3j1peNNIgzyyU5NRwVR&E education benefits comparison - https://www.va.gov/resources/compare-va-education-benefits/MDMA Video we showed in the stream - https://click.fourhourmail.com/d0u95d0kws0h4922xgb3tmxr5544fl/dpheh0h0v3dr3ehm/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cueW91dHViZS5jb20vd2F0Y2g_dj04SzVzSnVUYlF2WQ== @timferriss thanks for pushing the boundaries on PTSD medical treatment. You can find out everything about Tim at https://tim.blog
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In this engaging episode of the Military Retirement Podcast, hosts John McConnell and Victor De La Flor sit down with retired Marine Corps E-9, Wayne Terronez. Find Wayne on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wayne-terronez-16879174/
Wayne shares his unique insights into the transition from military to civilian life, discussing the challenges and strategies for a successful transition. He emphasizes the importance of mental health, the benefits of holistic approaches to wellness, and the value of proper life insurance planning. Wayne's candid discussion offers valuable advice for both active duty members nearing retirement and veterans navigating their post-military careers. Don't miss this episode filled with practical tips, personal stories, and actionable advice for a smoother transition to civilian life.
Chapter List with Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction and Purpose - Wayne Terronez introduces himself and his mission to help service members transition.
00:34 Morning and Evening Routines - Wayne discusses his routines in the military vs. civilian life, focusing on mental health.
02:26 Importance of Mental Health - The lack of focus on mental health in the military and Wayne's personal health journey.
06:42 Experiences at Wounded Warrior Regiment - Wayne's treatment for PTSD and the holistic approach to recovery.
12:54 Journaling and Its Benefits - Discussion on the power of journaling and setting goals.
17:09 Most and Least Enjoyable Aspects of Retirement - Wayne shares his experiences and insights after leaving the service.
20:34 Entrepreneurial Ventures Post-Retirement - Wayne talks about starting a nonprofit and a frozen yogurt truck.
24:41 Family and Military Service - Wayne discusses his son's interest in joining the Marine Corps.
26:52 Initial Motivation to Join the Marine Corps - Wayne's early influences and decision to enlist.
31:53 TRS/TAP Process and VA Claims - Wayne's experience with the Transition Readiness Seminar and his VA claims process.
34:21 Post-Military Activities and Yoga - Wayne's focus on yoga, mindfulness, and holistic health.
38:52 Impact of Military Service on Personal Life - Physical and mental toll of military service and the need for better fitness programs.
43:32 Civilian Sector and Leadership - Challenges of leadership and change in civilian jobs.
50:12 TRS and Mental Transition - Suggestions for improving the Transition Readiness Seminar.
1:13:55 Mentorship and Giving Back - Wayne's role as a mentor and his thoughts on helping others transition.
1:26:23 Final Thoughts and Key Messages - Wayne's final advice and message to the audience.
Books mentioned:
Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill - https://www.amazon.com/Think-Grow-Rich-Landmark-Bestseller/dp/1585424331
Relentless by Tim Grover - https://www.amazon.com/Relentless-Unstoppable-Tim-S-Grover/dp/1476714207
48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene - https://www.amazon.com/48-Laws-Power-Robert-Greene/dp/0140280197
Tribe by Sebastian Junger - https://www.amazon.com/Tribe-Homecoming-Belonging-Sebastian-Junger/dp/1455566381
############Links###############
🔗 All of my recording/editing equipment can be found here: https://kit.co/Chief_McConnell/john-mcconnell
🔗 @riversidefm - https://riverside.fm/?utm_campaign=campaign_2&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=rewardful&via=john-mcconnell
To all the brave men and women out there still protecting our freedom 🇺🇸 🫡 Thank you for your service!
some links may result in commissions for the site
2JKn4T9sOoUFRkj2t8BI
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In this conversation, John, Victor and Janet discuss various topics including retirement ceremonies, education programs for veterans, and the Veterans Treatment Program. Janet shares her experience in the military and her transition to civilian life, as well as her current work as a mentor in the Veterans Treatment Program. They also discuss the benefits of volunteering and finding purpose after retirement. The conversation discusses the Veterans Treatment Court program and the impact it has on veterans who are struggling with substance abuse and mental health issues. The program provides a second chance for veterans to receive treatment instead of facing jail time or fines. The mentors in the program play a crucial role in supporting and guiding the veterans towards success. The conversation also touches on the challenges veterans face in accessing VA benefits and healthcare services. Additionally, there is a mention of a streamlined process for getting VA disability claims done in one day at certain VA clinics. In this final part of the conversation, We discuss Janet's experience as a life coach and mentor, the importance of self-reflection and finding one's passion after transitioning out of the military, and the value of isolation with intentionality. We also touch on the upcoming release of our ebook, the Bottom Line Up Front, and the importance of joining the military retirement group. The conversation ends with well wishes for Father's Day and a reminder to make the most of the holiday.
Timestamps:
0:00 - Introduction and Welcome
2:40 - Military Retirement and Transition
4:46 - Educational Pursuits Post-Retirement
7:09 - VR&E Program Overview
9:28 - Personal Experience with VR&E
14:21 - Impact of VR&E on Veterans
18:51 - Role of Education and Mentorship
21:31 - Challenges with VA Benefits and Claims
23:56 - Introduction of Guest - Janet Ross
26:16 - Janet Ross's Military Experience
30:24 - Veterans Treatment Program
32:50 - Role of Mentorship in Veterans Treatment Program
35:18 - Success Stories and Challenges
42:21 - Personal Impact and Volunteer Work
50:14 - Conclusion and Final ThoughtsWant to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://streamyard.com/pal/d/4998128083271680
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On this Livestream episode of The Military Retirement podcast, we talk with Bill Vaughn, one of the top performing Cyber Security Specialists in the US Army, about the Cyber career path for retiring military, finding your passion and the health complications of being over-dedicated to your IT career.
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In this LiveStream episode of the Military Retirement Podcast, we're covering a few organizations that are supporting veterans with mental health, camaraderie and learning a new skill. https://guitars4vets.org/ & https://fishing4heroesusa.com/about
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Marv McGuire's is a retired US Navy retired Officer who served over 2 decades only to encounter his biggest challenge at the end of his career.
http://www.heartsillcapitalpartners.com/
Summary
Marv McGuire, a retired military logistics officer, discusses his transition from the military to civilian life and offers advice for veterans. He emphasizes the importance of helping other veterans and providing them with guidance and support. McGuire also highlights the need for veterans to have confidence in themselves and their ability to succeed in a new career. He shares his morning routine and the lessons he learned from hiking the Appalachian Trail. McGuire also talks about the decision to retire from the military and the importance of having open and honest conversations with family members. In this part of the conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of networking and mentorship during the transition from the military to civilian life. They mention organizations like American Corporate Partners (ACP) and Hire Heroes USA that provide valuable resources and connections for veterans. They also emphasize the significance of financial planning and debt management during the transition. The speakers recommend books such as 'In Love and War' by James Stockdale, 'Stillness is the Key' by Ryan Holiday, and 'The Slight Edge' for personal and professional development. They share their own experiences and offer advice on finding balance and success in the civilian world. Marv McGuire shares his experience with the VA rating process and the importance of starting the transition process early. He emphasizes the need to keep an open mind and take chances in order to find success in the civilian world. Marv also discusses the power of real estate syndication as an alternative investment and the importance of vetting partners in these deals.
Key Topics:
Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life
The Importance of Networking and Mentorship
Real Estate Investment Strategies for Veterans
Personal Development and Recommended Reads
############Links###############
🔗 All of my recording/editing equipment can be found here: https://kit.co/Chief_McConnell/john-mcconnell
🔗 @riversidefm - https://riverside.fm/?utm_campaign=campaign_2&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=rewardful&via=john-mcconnell
🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/marvin-mcguire-8674891b/
🔗 Wreathes Across America Radio Live - bit.ly/3NPN4L3
############Books###############
📚 Ego is the Enemy - Ryan Holiday
📚 The Obstacle Is The Way - Ryan Holiday
📚 The Slight Edge by Jeff Olson
📚 In Love and War by James and Sybil Stockdale
📚 Stillness is the Key by Ryan Holiday
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction
02:30 Marvin's Military Background
10:15 Transition Challenges and TAP Program
20:00 Networking Strategies Post-Military
30:45 Real Estate Investment Insights
40:00 Recommended Books and Resources
50:30 Importance of Mentorship
01:00:00 Q&A and Final Thoughts
To all the brave men and women out there still protecting our freedom 🇺🇸 🫡 Thank you for your service!
some links may result in commissions for the site
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We sit down with Sergeant Major (Retired) Hero Aguirre as he talks about his military to civilian transition, and how he went from leading Marines in the Marine Corps to now leading students in the JROTC program.
Takeaways
Family support is crucial during military service and the transition to civilian life.
PCS moves can be challenging, but they provide opportunities to explore new places.
Joining JROTC after retirement allows veterans to continue wearing the uniform and mentor young cadets.
Continuous learning is important for personal and professional growth.
Veterans should take advantage of the opportunities available to them. JROTC plays a crucial role in shaping the future of students and the community.
Retired military personnel should consider becoming JROTC instructors to make a positive impact.
There are various opportunities available for JROTC instructors in different branches of the military.
Transitioning from military to civilian life can be challenging, but mentorship and guidance can help.
Maintaining open communication and building relationships with parents is important in the JROTC program. Becoming a JROTC instructor can be financially attractive for retired service members, as they receive a salary from both the military and the school district.
Maintaining physical fitness and good health is important after retirement, even if the level of activity may decrease.
When transitioning to civilian life, it is important to set a timeline, have a plan, and be realistic about goals and expectations.
Reaching out to others who have gone through the transition process can provide valuable guidance and support.
00:00 Spontaneous Adventures and Weekend Getaways
02:52 Maximizing Veterans Benefits
12:52 Honoring Memorial Day and Exploring Family History
23:34 Life After Military Service and Finding Purpose
29:49 The Transition to Retirement and Family Focus
41:48 The Role of JROTC in Shaping Young Lives
52:59 Mentorship, Motivation, and Personal Reflections
59:35 Navigating the JROTC Program and Parenting Challenges
01:10:47 Becoming a JROTC Instructor: Certification and Pay Scale
01:21:00 The Importance of Physical Fitness and Health as an Instructor
01:25:28 Sharing Information and Motivating Students in the JROTC Program
01:28:54 The Centenarians of Japan and the Importance of Walking
01:29:50 Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life and the Need for Physical Fitness
01:33:02 The Impact of Good Habits and Letting Go of Unnecessary Ones
01:54:47 Leveraging Resources for a Successful Transition
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Covering more about #mentalhealthawarenessmonth, resources, books, #VAClaimSharks and more.
Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://streamyard.com/pal/d/4998128083271680
In this conversation, John and Victor discuss their YouTube channel reaching 500+ subscribers and their goal of reaching 1000 subscribers. They also talk about their plans to attend the @militaryinfluencerconference and the increasing number of people reaching out to be on their podcast. They mention the importance of supporting veterans and sharing their stories. They also discuss the need for veterans to transition back into civilian life and the challenges they face. They provide tips on accessing military benefits and resources, such as setting up a username and password for MyPay and using two-factor authentication. They also mention upcoming events and books they are reading. In this conversation, John and Victor discuss the importance of continuous learning and education. They emphasize the value of reading books and highlight the impact it can have on personal growth and development. They also discuss the influence of setting an example for others, particularly children, through reading and learning. The conversation touches on the benefits of education for veterans, including the Post-9/11 GI Bill and the opportunities it provides. They also mention the importance of networking and staying informed about the various benefits available to veterans.
Takeaways
The hosts celebrate reaching 500 subscribers on their YouTube channel and set a goal of reaching 1000 subscribers.
They discuss their plans to attend the Military Influencers Conference and the increasing number of people reaching out to be on their podcast.
They emphasize the importance of supporting veterans and sharing their stories.
They provide tips on accessing military benefits and resources, such as setting up a username and password for MyPay and using two-factor authentication.
They mention upcoming events, such as the Veterans Beer Club, and books they are reading, including 'Call Sign Chaos' by General James Mattis. Continuous learning and education are essential for personal growth and development.
Reading books can have a profound impact on expanding knowledge and understanding.
Setting an example through reading and learning can influence others, especially children.
Veterans have access to valuable benefits, such as the Post-9/11 GI Bill, that can support their education and career goals.
Networking and staying informed about available benefits are crucial for maximizing opportunities.
Sound Bites
"Just passed 500 on the YouTube channel"
"There is life outside of the military"
"Setting up a username and password for MyPay"
"I've spent the last 10 or 15, how many years? It's been quite a while that I've been just reading nonstop, constantly book after book after book after book and letting the books guide me to the next book rather than me just going randomly picking bestsellers or picking what everybody else is talking about."
"What actions do you take? What? Where does that information lead you to? Right. To fix something, to make something different, to change something in your life, to improve something. Right. That's I think that would be the very next step after that."
Chapters
00:00 Celebrating Milestone and Setting Goals
03:29 Preparing for the Military Influencers Conference
05:38 Supporting Veterans and Sharing Their Stories
11:26 Tips for Accessing Military Benefits and Resources
42:04 The Power of Continuous Learning and Education
45:29 The Influence of Setting an Example through Reading
55:10 The Benefits of Education for Veterans
01:09:07 Maximizing Opportunities through Networking and Benefits
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We’ll be focusing on Veteran Mental Health on this Livestream, with a special guest, Robert Luna. Learn more at https://al2la.us/ Robert is a Coast Guard retiree and veteran, who will be embarking on a hike across the USA with a mission to bring awareness to Veteran Mental Health.Join us on YouTube, Facebook or Instagram @MilitaryRetirementPodcast and listen to Robert’s story on this special edition of the Military Retirement Podcast LiveStream.Also available on The Military Retirement Group on Facebook.
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Jessica Marisette shares her military career and her desire to transition to civilian life. connect with here here https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-poirrier-marrisette/
She discusses the challenges she faced in the military and her desire for change. Jessica emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself and being honest. She also talks about her morning routine and the flexibility she enjoys in civilian life. Jessica shares her transition process and the importance of financial responsibility and education. Lastly, she imagines a conversation with her 16-year-old self, offering advice and insights. The conversation covers topics such as fiduciary responsibility and the importance of financial advisors in the military. It also discusses the lack of financial advisors in the units and the challenges faced during the transition from the military to the civilian side. The conversation highlights the importance of preparation, networking, and setting goals in order to be successful in the civilian world. It also touches on the Onward to Opportunity program and the process of obtaining a PMP certification. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the significance of mentors and the importance of creating a comprehensive business plan. In this conversation, Jessica Marrisette shares her experiences and insights on preparing for transition, taking advantage of opportunities, shifting mindset and work ethic, diverse career paths, preparing for the civilian job market, owning the interview, negotiating salary and benefits, navigating the VA benefits process, the Hiring Our Heroes program, and finding the right job and salary.
Takeaways
Transitioning from the military to civilian life can be challenging, especially when faced with uncertainty and a lack of information.
Preparing for the transition by setting goals, seeking education and training, and taking care of physical and mental health is crucial.
00:00 Introduction and Goal of the Conversation
01:23 Jessica's Military Career and Desire to Transition
08:14 Challenges in the Military and Desire for Change
09:56 Importance of Being True to Yourself and Honest
21:49 Transition Process and Preparation
30:20 Conversation with 16-Year-Old Self
38:43 Importance of Financial Responsibility and Education
39:13 Fiduciary Responsibility and Financial Advisors
39:53 Lack of Financial Advisors in the Military
43:04 Hurdles in Transitioning to the Civilian Side
44:19 Uncertainty and Imposter Syndrome
46:45 Preparing for the Transition and Landing a Job
50:26 Applying for Government Jobs and USA Jobs
52:43 Onward to Opportunity Program and PMP Certification
57:05 Project Management in the Military vs PMP Certification
01:00:46 The Importance of Networking and Mentors
01:03:40 Setting Goals and Creating a Comprehensive Business Plan
01:09:58 Establishing Connections and Networking
01:14:26 Preparing for Retirement and the Next Step
01:16:41 Preparing for Transition
01:17:40 Taking Advantage of Opportunities
01:19:08 Shifting Mindset and Ethic
01:20:07 Diverse Career Paths
01:20:55 Preparing for the Civilian Job Market
01:22:35 Owning the Interview
01:23:31 Negotiating Salary and Benefits
01:24:37 Navigating the VA Benefits Process
01:31:55 Hiring Our Heroes Program
01:40:25 Finding the Right Job and Salary
01:46:22 Closing Thoughts
############Links###############
🔗 All of my recording/editing equipment can be found here: https://kit.co/Chief_McConnell/john-mcconnell
🔗 @riversidefm - https://riverside.fm/?utm_campaign=campaign_2&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=rewardful&via=john-mcconnell
🔗 Onward to Opportunity - https://ivmf.syracuse.edu/programs/career-training/
🔗 Hire Heroes USA - https://www.hireheroesusa.org/industrial-logos/o2o/
🔗 I Do Affirm - https://idoaffirm.com/
some links may result in commissions for the site
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Takeaways:
Retirement can be a challenging transition, but it can also lead to new opportunities and a better quality of life.
The VA healthcare system can be slow and backed up, so it's important to plan ahead and explore other options if necessary.
Submitting a BDD claim before leaving the military can expedite the process of receiving VA disability benefits.
The book 'Tribe' by Sebastian Junger explores the importance of feeling competent, authentic, and connected in order to be content.
Human history is marked by cyclical patterns, and understanding these patterns can provide insights into the present and future. Finding purpose and connectedness is important in life, regardless of the generation one belongs to.
Taking care of one's health and wellness should be a priority, especially after leaving the military.
Having freedom and choice in post-military life allows for a better work-life balance and more time with family.
Resources like the Veterans Affairs Servicing Program and Parade Deck can provide support and opportunities for veterans.
Reaching 1,000 subscribers on their YouTube channel is a goal for John and Victor to attend the Military Influencers Conference.
Sound Bites:
"Always some crazy shit going on here."
"The show will go on somewhere or another."
"The VA is backed up on appointments, with wait times of up to two and a half months."
"Finding that connectedness, finding your purpose."
"Humans have dragged a body with a long hominid history into an overfed malnourished, sedentary, sunlight deficient, sleep deprived, competitive, inequitable, and socially isolating environment with dire consequences."
"Having the freedom to choose and enjoy what you do is like a weight lifted off the shoulders."
Chapters:
00:00 Life on the Beautiful Island of Sicily
02:21 The Challenges and Joys of Retirement
08:57 Navigating the VA Healthcare System
13:10 The Importance of Submitting a BDD Claim
32:32 The Cyclical Nature of Humanity
43:09 Finding Purpose and Connectedness
45:24 Prioritizing Health and Wellness
51:43 The Benefits of Freedom and Choice
58:24 Resources for Veterans
01:23:56 Goal: Reaching 1,000 Subscribers
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Sitting down with former USMC Clayton Simms aka @TheCivDiv about VA claims and life after the military. Check out StreamYard for creating live streams like this: https://streamyard.com/pal/d/4998128083271680
**Summary**
The conversation with Clay focuses on the challenges and necessities of navigating VA claims and transitioning from military to civilian life. It exposes predatory VA claims consulting companies that overcharge veterans for services available for free and stresses the need for transparency and self-education in handling VA claims. Key points include the importance of compiling sufficient evidence for claims, the nuances of the VA's evaluation criteria, especially regarding the condition's impact on range of motion, and the significance of thorough preparation for Compensation and Pension (C&P) exams. Clay shares strategies for transitioning effectively to civilian life, like beginning as a contractor to secure government service positions and utilizing networking.
Clay emphasizes starting a YouTube channel to offer free resources, aiming to counteract misleading and exploitative practices by some consulting firms. He discusses various topics like the limitations of relying on CMP providers over personal doctors, the effectiveness of buddy letters, and the proper approach to audits for back payments. Insights into handling claims while living overseas, and the benefits of having a high VA disability rating for federal employment are also covered.
**Takeaways**
- Avoid overpriced VA claims consulting services; many are predatory and lack transparency.
- Self-education and direct involvement in your VA claims process are essential for success.
- Evidence is crucial; gather all relevant documents from service and current medical records.
- Prepare meticulously for C&P exams and know your rights regarding medical record access, including using the National Archives and FOIA.
- The reality of VA benefit reductions is less common than some sources suggest.
- Building a strong case with evidence is vital, as is checking the accuracy of VA clinical notes.
- Starting as a contractor is a strategic entry into GS positions.
**Sound Bites**
"Evidence is the key driver for pushing your claim through."
"Starting as a contractor helps you get your foot in the door for GS positions."
"The VA claims approval rate is over 60%, but strong arguments for service connection are essential."
"Effective claims begin with solid evidence, building up to a well-supported opinion."
**Chapters**
00:00 Introduction and Overview
10:52 Transition from Military to Civilian Life Challenges
46:38 Understanding VA Benefit Reductions
55:03 How to Find Medical Records for Your Claim
01:08:23 Handling VA Claims from Overseas
01:16:30 Importance of Building a Strong Case with Evidence
01:25:51 Navigating Audits for Back Payments
01:41:42 Advantages of High VA Disability Rating
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Today talking about some of the legal battles for Veterans, GS Jobs and more.
Want to create live streams like ours? Check out StreamYard: https://streamyard.com/pal/d/4998128083271680
Takeaways
Legal battles and claim sharks are a concern for veterans seeking assistance with VA benefit claims.
Networking and building relationships can help veterans get their foot in the door with federal service.
Free organizations like the DAV and VFW provide assistance with VA claims without charging unauthorized fees.
GS positions offer stability and benefits compared to contracting, but contracting can provide higher pay.
The Guard VA Benefit Act aims to penalize individuals who charge unauthorized fees for assisting with VA claims. Predatory lending is a significant issue that affects military personnel, especially young service members. Education and awareness are crucial in preventing individuals from falling victim to predatory lending practices.
The recent Supreme Court decision allows veterans to receive both the Montgomery and post-9/11 GI Bill benefits, providing more opportunities for education and career advancement.
Utilizing veterans service organizations and accredited resources is the recommended approach for navigating the VA system and accessing benefits.
Exploring alternative education options, such as vet tech programs and VR&E, can be beneficial for veterans looking to further their education and gain new skills.
A guidebook for veterans is being developed to provide valuable information and guidance on various topics related to transitioning from the military to civilian life.
Sound Bites
"We'll definitely be out there recording out there as well. I'm bringing all my equipment. So I'm going to bring a suitcase full of equipment and like a t-shirt and some flip-flops. That's it."
"It really is a part of networking, right? It really is. And you do a good job as a DOD contractor. They're going to want you on their team."
"DOD contracting is definitely a faster way to get your foot in the door."
"Predatory lending and how folks take advantage of the military, especially at a young age."
"A seven to two ruling that veterans can now get both the post-9/11 and the Montgomery GI Bill."
"There's ways to get around not having to touch your GI Bill right off the bat."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
08:10 Getting Your Foot in the Door with Federal Service
28:24 The Importance of Culture and Environment in the Workplace
38:51 The Guard VA Benefit Act and the Role of Free Organizations
46:40 Navigating the VA System
01:12:36 Guidebook for Veterans
- Show more
