In this episode of the Military Retirement Podcast, John and Vic celebrate reaching 1,000 subscribers and discuss the challenges of modern media and recruiting. The highlight of the show is an interview with Rudy Muriel, a veteran and Outreach & Recruitment Specialist for the federal government. Rudy provides invaluable, demystified advice for veterans and military spouses looking to land a federal job.The discussion covers a range of topics including:The "three gatekeepers" of the federal hiring process and why a good resume is about more than just keywords [01:25:54].The biggest hurdles veterans face, such as translating military experience into civilian language, and practical solutions for overcoming them [18:21].Insights into how the federal government views an applicant's military rank versus their actual skills and knowledge [22:15].The VOW Act and how it allows transitioning service members to be onboarded for a federal job up to 120 days before their separation date, preventing a gap in pay [01:20:28].The surprising ability to negotiate a higher starting salary in certain federal jobs [56:57].Rudy’s advice for military spouses on finding and applying for federal positions, even without a resume [01:27:01].How to get free help and training from Veteran Service Officers (VSOs) and local employment offices upon landing in a new community [34:01].This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the transition to a civilian career, offering practical, expert advice that goes far beyond what is typically covered in the Transition Assistance Program (TAP).Key Timestamps:[00:46] The Military Retirement Podcast hits 1,000 subscribers and discusses future goals.[13:37] Introduction of guest Rudy Muriel, a federal government Outreach and Recruitment Specialist.[18:21] The biggest hurdle for veterans in federal hiring: identifying and translating transferable skills.[22:15] Dispelling the myth of military rank equivalency in federal pay grades.[34:01] The crucial role of Local Veteran Employment Representatives (LVERs) and Disabled Veterans' Outreach Program (DVOPs) counselors.[56:57] How to negotiate a higher step or salary for federal positions.[01:03:04] The importance of "buying back" military time for your federal retirement plan.[01:20:28] Explanation of the VOW Act and its benefits for new hires.[01:25:54] The "Three Gatekeepers" of the USAJOBS application process.[01:32:35] How and where to find Rudy Muriel's workshops and resources.Resources Mentioned:Rudy Muriel's LinkedIn: For job seekers and those interested in his workshops. https://www.linkedin.com/in/rudy-m-165a0515/USAJOBS: The official website for federal employment. https://usajobs.govThe VOW Act: For transitioning service members to get onboarded early. https://www.benefits.va.gov/vow/Military Retirement Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/themilitaryretirementgroupPortraits for Patriots: An organization that provides free professional photos for transitioning veterans. https://portraitsforpatriots.org/Operation Headshot: An alternative organization offering similar services and photography education for veterans. https://www.operationheadshot.com/

In this comprehensive episode of the Military Retirement Podcast, John and Vic welcome Jane Babcock, a veteran and expert educator on VA benefits. Jane, with over a decade of experience helping thousands of veterans and widows, uncovers some of the most underutilized but crucial benefits available.

The discussion kicks off with a deep dive into the Wartime Veteran and Surviving Spouse's Pension, a powerful but often overlooked program that can provide significant financial support. Jane clarifies eligibility, income thresholds, and how this benefit can make a huge difference, especially for older veterans and widows.

The conversation then moves to recent updates and critical advice for navigating VA claims:

New PACT Act Conditions: Learn about the four new conditions signed by the president, specifically related to urinary and kidney cancers, and how to expedite claims for terminal diagnoses like ALS.

The Neer Claim & Back Pay: Jane explains this landmark Supreme Court case that led to substantial back pay for Agent Orange veterans and even their surviving family members.

Understanding VA Claims & Nexus Letters: Get expert advice on what to do when your claim is denied, the importance of reading VA letters, gathering evidence (including "buddy statements"), and when it's time to consider a lawyer.

VA Healthcare Access: Discover how veterans can utilize VA healthcare even with private insurance, including walk-in clinics and emergency room visits covered under the COMPACT Act.

Caregiver Support & Aid and Attendance: Jane outlines benefits for caregivers, including potential compensation and assistance for daily living tasks.

DD214 Importance: Learn why certain copies of your DD214 are crucial and how Veteran Service Officers (VSOs) can help retrieve lost records.

This episode is packed with invaluable information, practical tips, and powerful stories designed to empower veterans and their families to access the benefits they've earned.

Key Timestamps:

[00:11:11] The most unused veteran benefit: Wartime Veteran and Surviving Spouse's Pension.

[00:17:01] New conditions added under the PACT Act (urinary/kidney cancers, secondary conditions from SSRIs).

[00:18:45] Reassurance that VA ratings are generally not reduced unless fraud occurred.

[00:19:13] How to expedite VA claims for terminal diagnoses (e.g., ALS, late-stage cancers).

[00:21:16] The crucial role of Veteran Service Officers (VSOs) in filing and expediting claims.

[00:25:45] Explanation of the Neer claim and its impact on retroactive benefits for Agent Orange exposure.

[00:32:13] Understanding "Blue Water" Agent Orange exposure and qualifying ships.

[00:36:38] When to consider getting a lawyer for your VA claim and the importance of Nexus letters.

[00:47:44] Advice on honestly describing pain during VA medical exams (CMP exams).

[00:51:13] Insights into the VA rating process and why you rarely speak directly to a rater.

[00:58:16] Information on adaptive housing grants and VA-provided hearing aids.

[01:07:25] Caregiver support, Aid and Attendance benefits, and resources like the Elizabeth Dole Foundation.

[01:13:06] Clarification on getting extra GI Bill months and the VA Education Benefits phone number.

[01:16:41] Importance of DD214 and how VSOs can help retrieve it.

[01:22:38] Advice for Desert Shield/Storm veterans denied benefits multiple times.

[01:29:06] Using VA Healthcare even with private insurance, including the COMPACT Act.

Resources:

Jane Babcock (Veteran Benefits Educator) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janebabcock/

Syracuse University Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF): https://ivmf.syracuse.edu/

Grant Chatter (YouTube Channel): For information on grants available to veterans and civilians. @grantchatter

Elizabeth Dole Foundation: For military and veteran caregiver support: https://www.elizabethdolefoundation.org/

Military Retirement Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/themilitaryretirementgroup

In this dynamic episode of the Military Retirement Podcast, John and Vic kick off 2025 discussing everything from New Year's reflections to crucial veteran updates. They delve into the recent Supreme Court ruling that expands GI Bill benefits to 48 months for veterans with multiple periods of service [04:35], a game-changer for over a million veterans.

The conversation then shifts to the fascinating world of national security with special guest David Van Bennekum, a retired Marine Lieutenant Colonel, lawyer, and author of the self-help book "Searching for True Community." Dave shares his incredible journey from infantry officer to logistics expert, and the challenging path of attending law school while on active duty [18:12]. He offers unique insights into making complex topics like national security accessible to everyone, emphasizing the importance of informed dialogue and the balance between government transparency and security [39:07].

This episode also covers practical aspects of military retirement, including:

The impact of potential government shutdowns on VA benefits [15:07].

Personal stories and advice on making the retirement decision [06:29], managing debt before leaving service [10:56], and the importance of financial planning with tools like the TSP [01:01:24].

A candid comparison of working as a DoD contractor versus a GS employee [48:00], highlighting the cultural differences and challenges in federal hiring (USAJOBS) [01:07:48].

Innovative military talent acquisition programs like the Marine Corps' "recruit to gunny" for cyberspace warfare [32:14] and the Army's "High School to Flight School" for warrant officer pilots [41:59].

Discussions on international travel, immersing in local cultures, and helpful resources for retired military members looking to explore the world [01:10:01].

Key Timestamps:

[04:35] Discussion on the Supreme Court ruling expanding GI Bill benefits to 48 months.

[09:57] Introduction of guest David Van Bennekum, retired Marine LtCol, lawyer, and author.

[11:21] Dave shares his 20-year Marine Corps career and educational journey.

[15:07] Impact of government shutdowns on veteran benefits.

[18:12] Dave's demanding experience attending law school while on active duty.

[27:27] The inspiration and process behind writing "Searching for True Community."

[32:14] Discussion on Marine Corps' "recruit to gunny" talent acquisition program.

[39:07] Blurring lines between government transparency and national security.

[41:59] Army's "High School to Flight School" program for warrant officer pilots.

[48:00] Experiences transitioning from military to DOD contractor to GS employee.

[01:01:24] Financial planning for retirement, debt, and TSP.

[01:10:01] Discussions on international travel and cultural immersion.

[01:16:26] Introduction to the Nomadico Substack for travel tips.

[01:22:35] Where to find Dave Van Den Berg's book and connect with him.

Resources Mentioned:

David Van Bennekum's Book: "Searching for True Community" https://amzn.to/4mOdNat

David Van Bennekum's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dvanbennekum/

Military Retirement Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/themilitaryretirementgroup

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): For information on GI Bill benefits and other veteran services.

Nomadico Substack: For travel tips and information on living abroad: https://nomadico.substack.com/

The full episode can be found here: How America’s National Security System Actually Works

If you would like to start your own livestream or podcast, go check out 🎙️ StreamYard and get $10 discount! 😍 https://streamyard.com/pal/d/4998128083271680

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Ever felt like skipping the chain of command? Or wondered how to truly thrive after military service? In this episode, Vic and John sit down with Air Force veteran and veteran coach Daniel Faust to explore the gray area of Reserve retirement, the emotional hurdles of transition, and what it truly takes to advocate for those in need.

Key Moments

[00:01:29] Don't Skip the Chain of Command: A hilarious, cautionary tale about a Marine who went straight to the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps on social media to solve a bonus issue.

[00:07:09] From Active Duty to Reserve: Daniel Faust shares his unique transition story, including the challenges of his mental health AFSC and how fate led him to the Reserves.

[00:13:54] The Gray Area of Retirement: We discuss the complexities of Air Reserve Technician (ART) retirement and not receiving retirement pay until age 58.

[00:20:30] The Freedom to Advocate: Daniel Faust explains why he's leaving federal employment to freely advocate for veterans on crucial issues like homelessness and food insecurity, without government restrictions.

[00:22:31] TriCare Realities: A deep dive into the costs and limitations of TriCare for reservists compared to active-duty service members.

[00:29:49] The 90-Day Goalpost Strategy: We break down a crucial strategy for successful transitions: a family-centric, 90-day goal evaluation to stay on track and reduce stress.

[00:33:53] Relationships & Purpose: Daniel Faust gives a raw account of how his post-military business pursuits almost ruined his marriage and the importance of prioritizing family and faith.

[00:50:56] From Pain to Purpose: Daniel Faust reflects on his past failures, sharing how he turns "wounds into wisdom" to help others in his coaching business.

[01:14:08] The Military Influencer Conference (MIC): Key insights for first-time attendees, including what to expect and tips for making the most of your time at the event.

[01:17:06] Learn and Live Coaching: Daniel Faust introduces his coaching business and how to get a free session for veterans and first responders. He also explains why he's considering an oil rig "side hustle" to fund his dream.

Resources Mentioned

Military Retirement Group (Facebook): A community for veterans, retirees, and those transitioning out of service.

Daniel Faust (LinkedIn): Connect with Daniel Faust for insights on veteran transformation and coaching.

Learn and Live Coaching / "War Hero to Superhero": Find all of Daniel Faust's resources, including free sessions and challenges, at linktr.ee/warherotosuperhero.

"Bottom Line Up Front" Book: Your essential guide to navigating your military transition. Get your copy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4mqrY5d

Disclaimer

As an Amazon affiliate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through the Amazon link provided in this description. This comes at no extra cost to you and helps support the show!

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Ever wondered about military medical retirement? This episode features a candid conversation with Marine Corps veteran Alberto Boy, who shares his firsthand experience navigating the complex medical retirement process. We dive into dispelling common myths, understanding your financial options, and finding your purpose in civilian life.

Key Moments:

[08:40] From Infantry to Logistics: A Career Journey: Alberto discusses his 20-year Marine Corps career, including his time in infantry and later as a Distribution Management Officer (DMO), and how it shaped his transition.

[11:23] Medical Retirement vs. Regular Retirement: Alberto reveals his decision to pursue 20 years of active service despite being approved for medical retirement, and the financial considerations behind it.

[14:55] Dispelling the "Double Pay" Myth: Get the truth about receiving disability payments from both the military and the VA – you can't get double-paid for the same disability.

[18:40] Lawyers & Med Boards: Alberto shares insights on the role of disability lawyers during the med board process and the importance of doing your own research.

[24:17] Mental State During Transition: The emotional and mental challenges of medical retirement and how a strong support group can make all the difference.

[30:07] Finding Purpose as a Civilian: Alberto talks about his "honeymoon stage" after retirement and how he transitioned his military skills into a service manager role at Patterson Dental.

[33:16] The Value of Prior Military Colleagues: How working for a company with other prior service members helped ease Alberto's transition into civilian employment.

[36:43] SkillBridge & the VA: Alberto's experience with the SkillBridge program, working as a VSR for the VA, and gaining valuable insight into the claims process.

[41:33] Top Tips for Medical Retirement: Alberto's key advice for anyone considering military medical retirement, emphasizing research and individual situation assessment.

[46:48] The Burden of Medical Retirement: John and Vic discuss the heavy lift involved in medical retirement compared to traditional retirement, and the prevalence of misinformation.

[58:05] 2025 Goals: Vic shares his ambitious goals for the podcast, his personal "Green Log Book" channel, and his commitment to physical and mental well-being in retirement.

Resources Mentioned:

Military Retirement Group (Facebook): Connect with other veterans and retirees, share experiences, and get advice on your transition journey.

Alberto Boy (LinkedIn): If you have questions about medical retirement, connect with Alberto on LinkedIn.

WARTECH Program (VA): Learn more about this SkillBridge program at discover.va.gov/transition-programs

"Bottom Line Up Front" Book: Your essential guide to navigating your military transition. Get your copy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4mqrY5d

Disclaimer:

As an Amazon affiliate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through the Amazon link provided in this description. This comes at no extra cost to you and helps support the show!

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Getting out soon? Worried about the transition? In this episode, we're tackling the biggest questions about post-military life, from how to manage your finances to the tricky decision of chasing that last promotion. It's an episode packed with real-world advice and personal stories to help you navigate your next chapter.

Key Moments:

[00:03:00] VA Claims & Honesty: Why you should never lie on your VA claims and how to properly communicate your condition to get the rating you deserve.

[00:06:30] The Retirement Trigger: Is that last promotion worth staying in for? We share our perspectives and advice on making the right choice for your family and your future.

[00:10:49] The Golden Rule of Transition: Our #1 financial tip for every service member: pay off all your debt before you get out.

[00:15:07] Government Shutdown & Your Benefits: What you need to know about how a potential government shutdown could impact your veteran benefits.

[00:26:30] Understanding the COLA Trap: We break down the military retiree cost-of-living adjustments for 2025 and explain how your retirement date affects your pay raises.

[00:47:50] The Contractor vs. GS Journey: A candid look at the differences between working as a DoD contractor and a GS employee, and what it felt like to be a "third-class citizen."

[01:08:00] USAJOBS Resume Secrets: Personal tips for navigating the federal application process and finally getting your resume to stand out.

Resources Mentioned:

Military Retirement Group (Facebook): Find community support and answers to your questions from fellow veterans in our Facebook group.

"Bottom Line Up Front" Book: Your essential guide to navigating your military transition. Get your copy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4mqrY5d

Disclaimer:

As an Amazon affiliate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through the Amazon link provided in this description. This comes at no extra cost to you and helps support the show!

If you would like to start your own livestream or podcast, go check out 🎙️ StreamYard and get $10 discount! 😍 https://streamyard.com/pal/d/4998128083271680

In this essential episode of the Military Retirement Podcast, we're cutting through the complexity to bring you a clear, comprehensive guide to VA disability and healthcare, with a special focus on what a 0% to 100% disability rating truly means for veterans. This isn't just about numbers; it's about understanding your entitlements, maximizing your benefits, and ensuring you receive the care you've earned.

Join us as we break down the intricacies of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) system. We'll explore how disability ratings are determined, the specific healthcare services and financial compensation associated with each tier, and practical advice for navigating the claims process. Whether you're a transitioning service member, a veteran with an existing rating, or simply seeking to understand the full spectrum of VA support, this episode will empower you with the knowledge to advocate for yourself and your family.

Key Topics Covered:

[00:02:15] Understanding the basics of VA disability ratings and service connection.

[00:15:30] A detailed breakdown of benefits at 0%, 10%, and 20% VA disability.

[00:30:45] Exploring benefits for 30%, 40%, and 50% VA disability ratings, including special monthly compensation.

[00:45:00] What changes at 60%, 70%, 80%, and 90% VA disability, and additional support.

[01:00:10] The comprehensive benefits and healthcare associated with 100% VA disability.

[01:15:20] Strategies for filing claims, gathering evidence, and navigating appeals.

[01:30:00] Tips for accessing VA healthcare services and maximizing your medical benefits.

[01:45:30] Common mistakes to avoid and best practices for a successful VA claim journey.

Resources Mentioned:

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Official Website: https://www.va.gov/

VA Benefits Explorer: https://www.va.gov/explore/

Find Your Local VA Office: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/

Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs) Locator: Connect with organizations like the American Legion, VFW, or DAV for free assistance with claims. https://www.va.gov/vso/

You can get our book "The Bottom Line Up Front" to help you in your journey to civilian life: https://amzn.to/4mqrY5d

The full episode can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/live/WgMh2_k7GU4If you would like to start your own livestream or podcast, go check out 🎙️ StreamYard and get $10 discount! 😍 https://streamyard.com/pal/d/4998128083271680

As an Amazon affiliate, some of our links will result in revenue for the show - at no extra cost to you. If you would like to support our show please use the affiliate links, otherwise simply google search the resources yourself. Thank you!

In this episode, we sit down with veteran and entrepreneur Nick Palmesano to discuss his inspiring journey from serving in the military to creating the TV series "Office Joe." Nick shares his background, including his time at West Point and his military service, and he discusses the challenges of transitioning to civilian life.

When the show M.A.S.H. ended, the viewer was left wondering what the characters' lives would be like after Korea. This show is the After-M.A.S.H. It’s an ensemble workplace comedy that covers the challenging transition every veteran faces when they leave the military, shot in a Parks and Rec / Office style.

He provides a fascinating look into the world of veteran entrepreneurship, sharing the risks and rewards of starting a business. The conversation also delves into the creation of "Office Joe," a show that uses comedy to explore the unique experience of a veteran adjusting to civilian work culture. Nick also discusses his involvement with the nonprofit "Save Our Allies" and announces his upcoming book, "Pig Latin."

The showrunner and many cast members are popular veterans who have lived many of these experiences. Though the show covers many serious topics, the show never takes itself seriously and the characters and themes are often larger-than-life.

Key Timestamps:

[00:03:51] Nick introduces himself and shares his background, from West Point to becoming an entrepreneur.

[00:13:36] Discussion on the "Save Our Allies" nonprofit.

[00:24:40] Nick shares his entrepreneurial journey and the challenges he faced.

[00:41:42] The inspiration behind creating the TV series "Office Joe."

[01:17:35] Behind-the-scenes details on the making of the show.

[01:45:47] Nick announces his new book, "Pig Latin."

Resources Mentioned:

The full episode can be found here: https://youtube.com/live/FIAN20SWXSs

Nick Palmesano's Media Company: Diesel Jack Media - https://dieseljackmedia.com/

Nick Palmesano's Show: "Office Joe" - https://amzn.to/42tjQtq

Nonprofit: Save Our Allies - https://saveourallies.org/

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We are affiliated with Amazon. Some links may result in revenue for the channel at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support.

In this episode, we sit down with career coach Don Gleason, an expert in military transitions, to discuss how to navigate the complex world of civilian job hunting. Don shares invaluable advice on creating a standout resume, leveraging LinkedIn for networking, and the importance of understanding the hiring process.

The conversation goes beyond the tactical, as we delve into the crucial topics of work-life balance and finding a new purpose after military service. Don offers practical strategies for managing your time and aligning your career with your personal and family priorities, making this a must-listen for anyone transitioning from the military or seeking a new career path.

Key Timestamps:

[00:07:40] Updates on the DOD SkillBridge program.

[00:10:44] Discussion on VA news and related concerns.

[00:17:19] Don Gleason shares his personal military journey.

[00:58:24] Tips on tailoring your resume for specific jobs.

[01:09:11] The importance of networking and understanding hiring processes.

[01:25:24] A conversation on work-life balance and personal priorities.

[01:57:50] Finding your purpose after leaving the military.

[02:09:56] How to connect with Don Gleason for more advice.

Resources Mentioned:

DOD SkillBridge Program: https://www.dodtap.mil/

The full episode can be found here: https://youtube.com/live/pv9bAt7dJ8M

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In this powerful interview, we sit down with military mindset expert, Kevin Brewer, who shares his incredible story of losing 90 pounds in just 15 months through a 100% diet-based approach. Learn how he leveraged a "military mindset" to build resilience and gain control of his health. Discover his insights on gut health, the importance of single-ingredient foods, and how to find a supportive social circle. This episode is packed with actionable advice for anyone looking to transform their life.

We dive into his unique approach to nutrition, including his experiences with various diets and the importance of finding a balance that works for you. The conversation also explores the mental aspect of his journey, touching on how to manage thoughts, build resilience, and the power of changing your relationship with food. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to improve their health through a strong mindset and a disciplined approach to nutrition.

As a former military veteran and athlete, Kevin Brewer endured 13 years of undiagnosed pain and a declining quality of life. After losing 90 pounds and finding the right solutions, he found a way to thrive again.

With 22 years working on classified military and federal law enforcement initiatives, holding certifications from prestigious programs such as Mental Performance Mastery and Heroic Performance, Kevin offers proven and actionable strategies and tips that inspire and empower you to be your absolute best.

Key moments:

[00:11:32] Kevin discusses his personal health transformation.

[00:17:50] He explains his diet-only weight loss journey.

[00:29:28] A discussion on the role of diet vs. exercise.

[01:03:04] The importance of social circles during personal growth.

[01:35:55] The connection between mental health and VA ratings.

[01:50:05] How to manage your nervous system and decision-making.

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