Part-Time Hitter

Part-Time Hitter

By Eric EvansGovernment
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Part-Time Hitter episodes

  • Clearance Jobs Secrets: Resume Hacks & Cleared Career Tips | Katie of Clearance Jobs

    How can you stand out in the competitive cleared job market and land your dream role? In this insightful episode of the Part-Time Hitter Podcast, Eric Evans sits down with Katie H, Content Marketing Manager for Clearance Jobs and a self-proclaimed "Secret Squirrel Meme Generator," to uncover the secrets of crafting winning resumes, navigating hiring freezes, and thriving in the clearance recruiting space. Together, they dive into practical tips for tailoring resumes, leveraging AI, and building connections with recruiters in an ever-changing job landscape.

    Meet Our Expert: Katie H

    With years of experience as a recruiter and now a key figure at Clearance Jobs, Katie H brings unparalleled expertise in the cleared job market. Her unique perspective as a "recovering recruiter" and meme creator offers valuable insights for job seekers looking to break into or advance in national security and contracting roles.

    Deep Dive into Resume Optimization: Katie and Eric explore the dos and don’ts of resume writing for the cleared space, the importance of using precise language from job descriptions, and how to make recruiters’ lives easier in a flooded market. They discuss the role of AI in resume crafting, the impact of labor categories (LCATs) on pay, and strategies for standing out amidst increased competition due to government shifts.

    Navigating the Cleared Job Market: Katie shares trends shaping the industry as of March 2025, including in-demand skill sets like AI and cyber defense, and offers advice for transitioning military personnel and reservists looking to enter the cleared space. This episode provides actionable guidance for anyone aiming to secure a cleared position.

    Essential Resources for Job Seekers: Discover how to use Clearance Jobs effectively, connect with recruiters, and access free resume templates and support. Visit Clearance Jobs for more tools and insights to boost your career in the cleared community.

    https://www.clearancejobs.com

    Part-Time Hitter is brought to you by Friendly Forces and Clearance Jobs, organizations committed to supporting service members and professionals in the cleared and contracting sectors.

    http://friendlyforces.com

    http://clearancejobs.com


    51 min
  • Financial Independence / Next Endeavor (FINE) with Millennial Money Veteran

    Breaking Echo Chambers: Overcoming Bias and Building Understanding with Millennial Money Veteran

    How can we bridge divides and engage in meaningful conversations with those who hold opposing views? In this thought-provoking episode of the Part-Time Hitter Podcast, Eric Evans hosts Millennial Money Veteran, a financial expert and military veteran, to explore the art of navigating biases, breaking free from echo chambers, and fostering constructive dialogue. Together, they dive into strategies for understanding differing perspectives, challenging personal beliefs, and maintaining empathy in a polarized world.
    Meet Our Expert: Millennial Money Veteran
    With a background in military service and financial expertise, Millennial Money Veteran brings a unique perspective on personal growth, critical thinking, and overcoming biases. His experiences offer valuable insights for anyone looking to engage in difficult conversations and strengthen their mental resilience.
    Deep Dive into Overcoming Bias: Millennial Money Veteran and Eric discuss practical approaches to identifying and combating personal biases, the importance of curiosity over combativeness, and the power of "steelmanning" to give the strongest interpretation of opposing viewpoints. They explore real-world examples, like vaccine debates and political polarization, to highlight how empathy and context can transform discussions.
    A Veteran’s Journey Through Bias and Growth: Millennial Money Veteran shares his personal journey of seeking out opposing opinions, challenging his own beliefs, and using these experiences to grow both personally and professionally. This narrative provides inspiration for veterans and civilians alike to embrace discomfort for the sake of understanding.
    Essential Resources for Growth and Connection: Learn how to approach difficult conversations with confidence and curiosity. Connect with Millennial Money Veteran for more insights on personal development and financial strategies for veterans.
    https://millennialmoneyveteran.com
    Part-Time Hitter is brought to you by Government Forces and The Variety Guard, entities dedicated to assisting service members across all phases of their careers.
    http://governmentforces.com
    http://thevarietyguard.com

    1 hr 6 min
  • Navigating Reservist Civilian Career Challenges with USERRA Attorney Brian Lawler, USMC (Ret.)

    Balancing the Scales: Navigating USERRA Rights with Expert Insight

    How well are the rights of reservists and National Guard members protected under USERRA in real-world scenarios? In this enlightening episode, join Eric Evans as he hosts Brian Lawler, a seasoned attorney specializing in USERRA law. Lawler, with his extensive experience both in and out of military service, sheds light on the intricacies of USERRA, providing valuable insights for service members navigating their careers in the civilian workforce.


    Meet Our Expert: Brian Lawler Brian Lawler's journey from piloting F-18s to advocating for servicemembers in the courtroom gives him a unique perspective on the challenges and protections under USERRA. His insights are especially valuable for reservists and National Guard members facing employment challenges related to their service.


    Deep Dive into USERRA: Brian Lawler discusses various aspects of USERRA, explaining how it's designed to ensure that those who serve in the reserves or National Guard are not disadvantaged in their civilian careers. He delves into common issues like differential pay, employment discrimination, and how to effectively assert your rights under the law.


    A Lawyer’s Journey Through Military and Civil Law: Lawler shares his transition from active duty to law school, his specialization in USERRA, and the formation of his law practice focused on protecting servicemember rights. This narrative offers a roadmap for servicemembers considering a legal career post-service.


    Essential Resources for Understanding Your Rights: Equip yourself with the knowledge to safeguard your career. Connect with Brian Lawler for deeper insights and legal advice specific to USERRA.


    Brian Lawler LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-lawler-60b3584/

    Visit Pilot Law Corp: http://www.pilotlawcorp.com


    Part-Time Hitter is brought to you by Government Forces and The Variety Guard, entities dedicated to assisting service members across all phases of their careers. 


    http://governmentforces.com 

    http://thevarietyguard.com



    57 min
  • Holistic Health and Fitness with Alex Morrow and Drew Hammond | Unpacking H2F in the Army

    Integrating Fitness with Military Duties: How Viable Is It?

    Are there strategies to optimize human performance within the constraints of military life? Discover the answers in this episode with Alex Morrow and Drew Hammond, specialists in the Army's Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F) initiative.
    Welcome, Alex Morrow and Drew Hammond
    Alex Morrow and Drew Hammond bring diverse backgrounds in fitness and military service. Their unique perspectives, stemming from experiences in conventional and special operations forces, delve into the integration of fitness within the military framework.
    Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F) Program
    The H2F initiative aims to overhaul traditional military physical training, advocating a holistic approach that emphasizes physical, cognitive, and emotional fitness. Alex and Drew explore the philosophy and practical applications of H2F, offering insights that could serve as a roadmap for enhancing soldier readiness and capability globally.
    The Journey to Fitness Specialization
    Alex and Drew share their paths to becoming fitness specialists within the military. They discuss maintaining high fitness standards amidst their duties and the broader implications of their work on both military readiness and personal development.
    "Understanding that fitness is as much about mental and emotional strength as it is about physical ability can fundamentally change how we approach training in the military," says Drew Hammond.
    Resources
    Learn more about the H2F initiative and connect with our guests for further insights into military fitness and health.
    Alex Morrow Linkedin:
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/morrow-alex/
    Drew Hammond Linkedin:
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/drew-hammond-ms-cscs-09420318/
    Part-Time Hitter is a collaborative initiative by Friendly Forces and The Variety Guard.
    http://friendlyforces.com
    http://thevarietyguard.com

    1 hr 27 min
  • Security Clearances with the Clearance GOAT | Lindy Kyzer of ClearanceJobs

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    Do you find security clearances confusing? The

    process, reasons for denial, and keeping up with updates can feel overwhelming
    without someone to guide you. That’s why I sat down with Lindy Kyzer, the
    Clearance GOAT, to break it all down. Tune in to hear everything you need to
    know about security clearances, so you can navigate the system with confidence.

    Clearance Jobs Overview

    Lindy is the Director and PR of Clearance Jobs, a job
    board and career resource for those with an active federal security
    clearance.
    The platform connects employers with candidates who
    hold various levels of security clearances, such as intelligence,
    military, and cybersecurity.

    SF86 Form Updates and Process Changes

    Lindy discusses the transition from the SF86 form to
    the Personnel Vetting Questionnaire (PVQ). 
    The new form is designed to speed up the process by
    breaking it down into four parts and making it less of a headache for job
    applicants.
    She also highlights the new digital form and E-App
    system, which help save time and effort.

    How to Know If a Clearance Is Still Active

    One of the biggest questions from service members is
    whether their clearance is still active post-separation.
    Lindy addresses the upcoming policy change that extends
    the window from two years to three years, allowing more flexibility for
    transitioning service members.
    She advises confirming the exact status of your
    clearance by consulting with recruiters or security officers.

    Common Reasons for Clearance Denials

    Lindy highlights the primary reasons for clearance
    denials:
    Financial Issues:
    Including significant debt and unpaid taxes.
    Drug Use:
    Especially in states where marijuana is legal, as federal law still
    considers it illegal.
    Criminal Conduct:
    With the current continuous vetting system flagging issues more promptly.
    Lindy emphasizes the importance of proactive
    mitigation, advising individuals to seek financial counseling, address
    substance abuse issues, and self-report any potential problems.

    Advice for Transitioning Service Members

    For service members entering the civilian workforce,
    Lindy offers actionable advice:
    Leverage prior clearance
    eligibility when applying for roles.
    Consider roles in the Guard or
    Reserve that can lead to clearance upgrades
    Research employer policies and
    contract requirements regarding clearances.

    "Being proactive is the best way to

    mitigate issues in the clearance process. If something comes up, address it
    head-on—it shows integrity and willingness to take responsibility." -
    Lindy Kyzer. 

    Resources

    clearancejobs.com

    Lindy Kyzer on LinkedIn

    Sponsors

    Part-Time Hitter is a collaborative initiative by
    Friendly Forces and The Fratty Guard. http://friendlyforces.com

    http://thefrattyguard.com

    50 min
  • The Fight to Join the Army as a Sikh and Navigating without GPS | Kanwar Singh

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    Mixing military experience with entrepreneurship: is it possible? Is there a way to improve reliability in urban environments where GPS signals are often weak or unavailable? You can find the answers to these questions and more in this episode with my guest, Kanwar Singh is a Signal Officer in the Army National Guard and the founder of Skyline Nav AI. Kanwar navigates multiple roles and responsibilities, sharing his fascinating journey and professional insights.  

    Welcome, Kanwar Singh  

    Kanwar Singh brings a rich background in military
    service and entrepreneurship. Inspired by his family and a speech by
    Senator John McCain, he decided to join the National Guard.  
    Despite facing challenges, he was commissioned as an
    officer in 2018. While balancing his military service and civilian goals,
    he founded Skyline Nav AI, a company that develops GPS-independent
    navigation technology to enhance connectivity in environments with poor
    satellite signals.  
    Kanwar provides valuable insights on how service
    members can balance dual careers, explore cutting-edge technology, and
    embark on an inspiring journey filled with resilience and
    innovation.  

    Skyline Nav AI and Technological

    Innovations 

    Scott Skyline Nav AI focuses on commercializing
    alternative navigation technologies for both the Department of Defense
    (DoD) and the private sector.
    Kanwar provides insights into how the company employs
    innovative technologies to address and mitigate vulnerabilities associated
    with GPS reliance.
    He also highlights the company’s B2B model,
    collaboration efforts, and the developmental potential of these
    technologies.

    Becoming an Entrepreneur 

    Becoming your own boss is one of the best ways to live.
    It makes work much more enjoyable, even though it isn’t always
    easy.  
    Kanwar shares his journey of becoming an entrepreneur.
    Even with an MBA, the life of entrepreneurship can still be challenging
    for him.  
    Networking, being financially responsible, and his love
    for his company helped him overcome challenges and become a successful
    business owner. 

    "Having a network of other entrepreneurs

    and surrounding yourself with the right advisors and mentors is incredibly
    helpful because it provides valuable guidance." Kanwar Singh. 

    Resources

    Skyline

    Nav AI

    Kanwar Singh on LinkedIn

    Part-Time Hitter is a collaborative initiative

    by Friendly Forces and The Fratty Guard.

    http://friendlyforces.com

    http://thefrattyguard.com

    48 min
  • Entrepreneurship and Finding Your Path in the Military | Dondre Lawson

    Having a college education is one of the best ways to help a former military member transition into civilian life. But is it possible to pursue your dreams while still serving your country? In this episode, I chat with Dondre Lawson, Senior Operations Sergeant in the Maryland National Guard and CEO of Emerald Technical Solutions, as he shares his journey of using military service to achieve educational, professional, and entrepreneurial success. Tune in to learn how to unlock the hidden benefits of the Guard and build a brighter future.

    Dondre’s Background  

    After joining the Maryland National Guard at 18, Dondre Lawson discovered a passion for the IT field. 

    Over the years, he earned several degrees that paved the way for his role as CEO of Emerald Technical Solutions, a company specializing in cloud engineering, cybersecurity, and digital infrastructure. 

    He also runs a nonprofit organization, Defense Interns, to help connect high school students with real-world career experiences.  

    The Value of Guard Benefits  

    Dondre discovered the educational benefits offered by the Guard and utilized tuition assistance to pursue professional certifications. 

    By earning a top-secret clearance and IT certifications, he unlocked opportunities in government contracting roles. 

    He encourages Guard members to fully leverage these resources and approach their futures with a strategic mindset.  

    Leadership Through Mentorship  

    College isn’t the only path to career success—mentorship can be a powerful tool.

    Dondre advocates for "stacking mentors," learning from individuals at various stages of their careers. 

    He credits mentorship with shaping his journey and inspiring him to create opportunities for others. 

    His nonprofit, Defense Interns, embodies this philosophy by rotating students through different companies to help them develop a diverse set of skills.

    Balancing Guard Service and Business Ownership

    Dondre provides a unique perspective on managing dual roles as a Guardsman and a business owner. 

    He discusses the challenges of supporting employees with military obligations and his strategies for maintaining continuity. 

    Dondre also stresses the importance of hiring veterans, recognizing their unique skills and commitment.

    "Think about where you'll be in 10 years. If you're 18, you'll be just 28—still young, but already halfway through your career. By then, you could have obtained a clearance, had your education paid for, maybe even deployed, and seen another part of the world." - Dondre Lawson. 

    Resources

    Dondre Lawson on LinkedIn

    Defense Interns

    Sponsors

    This episode of Part-Time Hitter is brought to you by Emerald Technical Solutions. Check them out at emeraldtechsolutions.tech.

    Part-Time Hitter is a collaborative initiative by Friendly Forces and The Fratty Guard. http://friendlyforces.com

    http://thefrattyguard.com


    57 min
  • Information Dominance, F-35s, and other stuff | Ryan McBeth

    Just how advanced are information warfare and drone technology in today’s military operations?  

    In this episode of Part-Time Hitter, we explore these topics and more with my guest, Ryan McBeth. A 20-year Army and National Guard veteran, Ryan brings a wealth of expertise in developing military technology. Tune in to hear his unique insights on military innovation and the civilian applications of cutting-edge tech.  

    Ryan McBeth’s Background 

    Currently, Ryan is at the forefront of groundbreaking work in open-source intelligence (OSINT) collection, drone technology, and humanitarian initiatives.  
    He also collaborates with private intelligence companies and startups to push the boundaries of technology and its applications in both defense and civilian sectors.  
    Beyond his military accomplishments, Ryan is a YouTube creator with over a million subscribers and a novelist.  

    Revolutionizing Battlefield Support with Drones 

    Ryan shares his involvement with AeroMedLab, a company developing AI-powered drones designed to deliver whole blood to soldiers in critical conditions.  
    These drones navigate challenging environments where traditional medevac methods fail. He highlights how AI is being repurposed for humanitarian missions.  
    From delivering blood to Special Forces operations to potentially aiding heat casualties in training environments like NTC, this technology is poised to save lives in future conflicts.  

    The Future of Information Warfare  

    Ryan discusses the role of misinformation and how adversaries use it to influence perceptions and decisions. 
    He advocates for proactive approaches to managing narratives and ensuring accurate communication, both on and off the battlefield.  

    Ryan’s Advice for Veterans and Innovators 

    Ryan reflects on his transition from soldier to software engineer and intelligence analyst.
    His journey demonstrates how important it is to leverage military experience in civilian careers. 
    Ryan’s insights into the tech and defense industries reveal the growing demand for professionals who can bridge the gap between operational expertise and technical innovation. 
    He also emphasizes the importance of adaptability and continuous learning in achieving long-term success.  

    “I envision a future where drones are used less frequently on the battlefield but in a more strategic and judicious manner. With advancements in countermeasures, such as M-SHORAD systems and lasers capable of shooting down drones, their use will require greater sophistication. To survive, drones will need to fly low and fast, potentially powered by AI, as relying on radio links or GPS makes them vulnerable to targeting.” - Ryan McBeth. 

    Resources

    https://ryanmcbeth.substack.com/

    Ryan McBeth YouTube channel 

     

    Part-Time Hitter is a collaborative initiative by Friendly Forces and The Fratty Guard.

    http://friendlyforces.com

    http://thefrattyguard.com

    52 min
  • Foreign Area Officer, Embassy Parties, and Service2School | LCDR Alec Emmert

    How do you know when gaining a higher education will bring you success in your military career?My special guest—and the first non-Army guest on the show—Alec Emmert, CEO of Service to School, answers this question and shares his Navy experiences. You’ll also discover career-enhancing opportunities within the Navy Reserve and learn how education can open doors to new professional pathways.  

    Alec Emmert’s Background

    Alec discusses his journey from growing up in Brazil to attending the Naval Academy after 9/11. 
    He highlights his time in the submarine force, deployments to CENTCOM, and how assignments in Bahrain and Italy ignited his passion for foreign affairs. 
    Transitioning into the Navy Reserve allowed Alec to blend his military expertise with private-sector opportunities.

    The Navy Reserve Advantage

    Alec highlights unique opportunities within the Navy Reserve, including his role as a mission planner with Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC), a position rarely accessible to junior officers on active duty. 
    He also discusses working with Combined Task Force 56 (CTF-56) in Bahrain, where he supported civil affairs teams and planned international maritime security exercises. 

    Advocating for Reservists: Changing Corporate Policies

    Alec recounts his efforts to improve McKinsey’s military leave policies after encountering challenges during a deployment. 
    By leveraging veteran networks and internal advocates, he successfully secured better support for reservists. This ensures service members receive equitable treatment while balancing careers and military obligations.

    Service to School: Supporting Veterans in Higher Education

    Service to School is a program that helps veterans achieve academic success. Veterans can receive assistance with undergraduate degrees, MBAs, or law school. 
    The nonprofit matches veterans with mentors who provide guidance tailored to their backgrounds and aspirations. 
    Alec shares how the program can help servicemen gain admission to various schools and the mentorship they receive throughout.

    “The big thing I always tell everybody is don't self-select out. At the end of the day, we have seen so many success stories at Service to School. And people are often, they often doubt themselves and say, ‘Do I have what it takes to go to a top college?’ And the answer is you do.” - Alec Emmert. 

    Resources

    Service To School

    Part-Time Hitter is a collaborative initiative by Friendly Forces and The Fratty Guard.

    http://friendlyforces.com

    http://thefrattyguard.co

    51 min
  • Dominating the Weather | Air National Guard SWO MSGT Alek Schafer

    What role does weather forecasting play in military operations? In this episode, I’m joined by MSGT Alex Schafer of the Air National Guard. Alek Schafer is a staff weather officer in the Air National Guard who has spent multiple tours in Afghanistan, Iraq and Africa supporting the 160th SOAR, SOCAFRICA, AFSOC and multiple Army National Guard Aviation echelons. From the unique responsibilities of a Staff Weather Officer (SWO) to his reflections on mentoring the next generation of leaders, this conversation explores the intersection of service, adaptability, and leadership.

    Highlights from MSGT Schafer's Career

    Active Duty Beginnings: MSGT Schafer started his military journey on active duty, signing up as an open general recruit in 2007.
    Meteorology Expertise: He explains the critical role of SWOs in supporting Army aviation and operational readiness, including experiences during deployments to Fort Bliss and Afghanistan.
    Defining Moments: Alek recounts the challenge of forecasting weather during pivotal missions, including the limitations of weather predictions and the lessons learned from commanding officers.

    The Importance of Leadership in the Military

    Mentorship and Growth: Alek emphasizes the significance of finding mentors outside your field and cultivating a personalized leadership style.
    Evolving Responsibilities: As a senior enlisted leader, he reflects on the shift from technical focus to broader leadership responsibilities, aiming to prepare soldiers and airmen for future conflicts.

    Technical Expertise Meets Real-World Impact

    The Role of Data: Schafer discusses the sophisticated tools available to military meteorologists, including the Air Force's proprietary weather models.
    Challenges in a Data-Contested Environment: He sheds light on the importance of maintaining forecasting capabilities, even in data-denied scenarios.

    Advice for Aspiring Military Professionals

    Be Passionate and Resilient: Whether in meteorology or another field, Alek encourages embracing challenges with a mindset of growth.
    Adaptation and Innovation: He highlights the need for the next generation to train smarter, faster, and stronger to meet the complexities of modern warfare.

    “Find a mentor outside your career field or even your branch—someone you admire, not to emulate completely, but to learn from and incorporate aspects of their approach into your own leadership style. Strive to understand what it truly means to be a patriot and a leader. Know your purpose, and take the time to research and understand the "why" behind what you do. As I always say, "The REG will set you free." Be passionate about your work, whether in the military or elsewhere, because passion drives commitment.” - Alek Schafer. 

    Resources

    Part-Time Hitter is a collaborative initiative by Friendly Forces and The Fratty Guard.

    http://friendlyforces.com

    http://thefrattyguard.com

    58 min

About Part-Time Hitter

From the publisher's feed

Part-Time Hitter is designed to help you thrive as a reservist. We have conversations with reservists who are doing great things as a part of their service or in their civilian life, and give you the…