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

Covering more about #mentalhealthawarenessmonth, resources, books, #VAClaimSharks and more.

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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

We’ll be focusing on Veteran Mental Health on this Livestream, with a special guest, Robert Luna. Learn more at https://al2la.us/

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###############

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🔗 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/

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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

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

Today talking about some of the legal battles for Veterans, GS Jobs and more.

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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

"Set expectations, make sure they're realistic expectations, and then set those boundaries based on those expectations." https://www.militaryretirementpodcast.com

The conversation discusses the topic of burnout after leaving the military and transitioning into civilian life. It highlights the importance of understanding burnout and provides strategies for navigating stressors and avoiding burnout. The main themes include setting boundaries, saying no, focusing on one task at a time, and finding a purpose outside of work. The conversation emphasizes the need to prioritize self-care and maintain a healthy work-life balance. The conversation focuses on strategies for maintaining a healthy work-life balance. The main themes include managing email overload, using calendars effectively, aligning personal values, and avoiding burnout. Key takeaways include: regularly deleting unnecessary emails to feel accomplished, using calendars to schedule and prioritize tasks, aligning personal values with work, communicating effectively with supervisors, getting rid of unnecessary possessions, paying off debt, and setting reminders for daily routines and goals.

Takeaways:

Burnout can still occur after leaving the military and transitioning into civilian life.

Setting boundaries and saying no are important strategies for avoiding burnout.

Focusing on one task at a time can help prevent overwhelm and increase productivity.

Finding a purpose outside of work is crucial for maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Prioritizing self-care and taking time for oneself is essential in preventing burnout. Regularly delete unnecessary emails to feel accomplished

Use calendars to schedule and prioritize tasks

Align personal values with work

Communicate effectively with supervisors

Get rid of unnecessary possessions

Pay off debt to achieve financial freedom

Set reminders for daily routines and goals

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction

01:10 The Reality of Burnout

06:07 The Importance of Control

09:09 Transitioning Out of the Military

10:35 Setting Expectations and Boundaries

12:36 The Myth of Multitasking

16:37 Avoiding Overcommitment

23:10 Focusing on One Task at a Time

25:38 Intentional Time Management

26:04 Establishing a Daily Routine

32:36 Aligning Values

35:29 Communication and Miscommunication

38:39 Regretting Work-Life Imbalance

40:19 Action Items: Calendar, Debt, and Connecting with Elders

43:36 Takeaways: Getting Rid of Stuff, Getting Out of Debt, Simplifying Phone Use

############Links###############

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🔗 @thegreenlogbook

############Books###############

📚 The One Thing - Gary Keller, Jay Papasan

📚 The Greatest Salesman in the World - OG Mandino

📚The Daily Stoic - Ryan Holiday

📚 The Daily Laws - Robert Greene

📚 A Calendar of Wisdom - Leo Tolstoy

To all the brave men and women out there still protecting our freedom 🇺🇸 🫡 Thank you for your service!

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Federal Jobs and Federal Resumes with Kristen Ross from https://HireHeroesUSA.org

Kristen Ross, a federal resume program manager at HireHeroesUSA, shares insights on navigating the federal employment process. She emphasizes the importance of tailoring resumes to each job and highlighting relevant experience. Kristen also discusses the differences between private sector and federal resumes, noting that federal resumes require more narrative content and focus on demonstrating experience. She advises against submitting a master resume and suggests creating series-specific resumes. Kristen also addresses common misconceptions about the federal hiring process, such as the use of keywords and direct hires. She provides tips on finding key information in job announcements and emphasizes the significance of eligibility and qualifications. The conversation in this part focuses on eligibility requirements, the different positions and agencies within the federal government, and the application process. It also touches on the importance of networking and reaching out to hiring managers. The flowchart provided gives an overview of the competitive examining process and highlights the complexity of the system. They also debunk common myths and provide resources for staying informed about federal hiring.

Takeaways

Tailor your resume to each federal job and highlight relevant experience

Federal resumes require more narrative content and focus on demonstrating experience

Avoid submitting a master resume and create series-specific resumes

Misconceptions about the federal hiring process include the use of keywords and direct hires

Pay attention to eligibility and qualifications in job announcements Eligibility requirements are important when applying for federal positions, and not all positions are open to the public.

Different agencies have different positions and qualifications, so it's important to research and understand the specific requirements.

Networking, both on LinkedIn and through agency contacts, can be beneficial in finding federal job opportunities.

The application process can be complex, and it's important to follow instructions and be patient throughout the process.

Focus on the past 10 years of experience in your federal resume.

Be responsive to emails and phone calls during the federal hiring process.

Stay informed about federal hiring by using resources like FedWeek and Government Executive.

Don't believe common myths about federal hiring and seek accurate information.

00:00 Introduction and Background

01:50 Navigating the Federal Employment Process

06:55 Crafting an Effective Federal Resume

13:56 Demystifying Misconceptions about the Federal Hiring Process

39:18 Understanding Eligibility Requirements

41:38 Navigating Different Agencies and Positions

45:06 The Importance of Networking

45:36 Reaching Out to Hiring Managers

50:47 Exploring USAJOBS and Resources

54:33 Avoiding Common Mistakes in Applications

56:28 Understanding the 180-Day Restriction

01:02:08 The Future of Remote Work

01:11:36 An Overview of the Competitive Examining Process

01:18:23 Highlighting Transferable Skills and Unique Approaches in Federal Resumes

01:22:46 Focusing on the Past 10 Years of Experience in Federal Resumes

01:25:35 Being Responsive and Proactive in the Federal Hiring Process

01:28:27 Staying Informed: Resources for Federal Hiring

01:31:43 Debunking Common Myths About Federal Hiring

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How to take a minimalist approach in order to get your life in order before retiring from the military.

Takeaways:

- Transitioning from the military to civilian life is not as hard as it seems, but it requires knowing the right people and asking the right questions.

- Telling your own story and sharing your experiences can help others understand that a successful transition is possible.

- Having a plan in place and being financially prepared for a period of unemployment after leaving the military is crucial.

- Living in an RV can be a cost-effective and transformative experience, teaching you to appreciate the small things in life.

- Mentorship and open, honest conversations are essential for personal and professional growth. Mentorship can have a positive impact on personal growth and success.

- Reading books, especially autobiographies and military history, can provide valuable insights and perspectives.

- Challenges and failures can lead to personal growth and future success.

- Transitioning service members should seek mentorship and financial education to navigate the transition process.

- San Antonio offers affordable housing, veteran-friendly services, and access to healthcare for veterans.

Dan Schuyler, a retired military veteran, shares his experience and insights on transitioning from the military to civilian life. He emphasizes the importance of knowing the right people, asking the right questions, and realizing that there is more to life than just the military. Dan also highlights the significance of telling his own story and helping others understand that a successful transition is possible. He discusses his morning routine after retirement, his decision to sell his house and live in an RV, and the financial preparations he made for retirement. Dan advises veterans to have a plan in place and be prepared for a period of unemployment after leaving the military. He also emphasizes the importance of mentorship and having open, honest conversations with others. Dan Schuyler discusses the importance of mentorship and shares his experience with a mentor who pushed him to be better. He also talks about his reading preferences and the impact of reading on personal growth. Dan reflects on a major challenge he faced in his career and how he recovered from it. He emphasizes the importance of mentorship and financial education for transitioning service members and offers free consultations through his organization, Military Retirement Solutions. Dan also highlights the benefits of living in San Antonio, including affordable housing, veteran-friendly services, and access to healthcare.

############Links###############

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🔗 https://wealthwave.com/

🔗

############Books###############

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📚

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To all the brave men and women out there still protecting our freedom 🇺🇸 🫡 Thank you for your service!

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