Out of the Darkness – Richard LaMonica

Out of the Darkness

Richard LaMonica

How many of you served in the military or know someone, a loved one perhaps, that served. These last twenty years have seen a lot of tragedy. Our military members have suffered the brunt of everything that has gone on. For some, most of their careers were spent during a time of war.

Richard LaMonica served 22 years in the US Army.  He seen it all. After he retired, life was not easy. But, through perseverance and hard work, he is making a difference. He is now helping other vets to get their life back.

Richard is the author of two books, “13 Step Guide to Success,” and also a fiction book, “Out of the Darkness.”   He is also a coach, speaker and also the host of a podcast, “TheMisFitNation” podcast.

Help me welcome to the program, Richard LaMonica. Richard, it is a blessing to have you on the program today, I do appreciate your time.

Other than that brief information I just shared, can you tell us in your own words, “Who is Richard LaMonica?”

Like me, all you ever wanted to do was join the Army. I enlisted in September of my senior year and left for basic training 7 days after graduation. But yours took a little different route, correct?

What was your MOS in the Army?

When I left service, I thought I would be able to get a job fairly quickly – but soon found out that was not the case.  As I was contemplating my unique skill set, I realized there was not much opportunity for someone whose skill set was being trained to engage and destroy and make the other guy die for his country.

Despite the leadership training, detailed planning, etc., it took me quite a while to find a good paying job.

When you left service, you also found it a little difficult to get a job, correct?

It took me quite a while to actually make the mindset transition from the military mindset to a civilian mindset. I’m talking about, “Something needs to be done – just do it.” Mission accomplishment, no matter how small the mission. In the civilian sector, it seemed like they were living by the adage of “Let’s put off till tomorrow that which could be accomplished today.”  Did you find the same thing?

Your podcast is the “TheMisFitNation” podcast. How long have you been podcasting?

Why did you pick that name, “TheMisFitNation” podcast?

You share that your podcast promotes forward-thinking mindset and resiliency. Can you tell us a little more about your podcast and who you try to help and how?

Do you serve as a referral source (of sorts) for vets seeking help and assistance?

You also are an author. Your first book is the “13 Step Guide to Success.” What would you like to share about that book?

One of the steps in your book is, “Do not make resolutions, they never work. Instead, create a list of 12 goals and write them down.”  Can you share a little bit about why you included that in your book?

I loved the ones you included, I’ll just combine them here to save time. You tell your readers, “Go outside and breathe in the air. While outside, actually look up 3 inches and talk to another human – then bend down and...