Prepare to Compete Podcast

What’s it really like serving as a woman in the Army National Guard? In this episode of Veteran Voices, Yemima Bernard shares her powerful journey — from growing up in a big family in San Diego to facing the challenges of bootcamp, serving during COVID, and balancing military service with family life. Yemima opens up about why she chose the Guard, the reality of bootcamp, and what it was like to serve in her first unit during some of the most challenging times, including riots, natural disasters, and a pandemic. She also reflects on the unique experiences of women in the Guard, the support of her leadership, and how she transitioned back to civilian life.

This is more than a military story — it’s about resilience, honor, and the lessons that last long after service. Whether you’re a veteran, currently serving, or simply curious about life in the National Guard, Yemima’s story shines a light on the strength and sacrifice of women who guard.

🎖️ Veteran Voices honors the stories of those who serve — because every voice matters.

00:00 – Yemima’s Story Begins

01:50 – Why She Joined the National Guard

06:00 – Preparing for Bootcamp

09:30 – Bootcamp Challenges & Resilience

14:00 – Training, Leadership & AIT Lessons

19:00 – Weapons & Gas Chamber Training

21:00 – First Unit & Early Duties

 23:00 – Serving During Riots & Fires

 25:00 – COVID Activation & Long Deployments

29:30 – Women in the National Guard

 33:00 – Balancing Military & Family Life

38:00 – Transitioning Back to Civilian Life

✅ Download the Veteran Success Blueprint ebooks at vets4vetsinfo.com for resources to navigate VA claims and maximize your benefits.

Join the Veteran Community for Free: https://www.vets4vetsinfo.com/offers/... 

🎖️🔗 For VA More Information: https://www.vets4vetsinfo.com/Help

🛑 Please note: We pride ourselves on providing reliable and accurate information. However, all information given in these videos is educational and should serve as a starting point in your individual research journey. We highly recommend contacting trusted experts for individual consultations regarding topics covered in our content. Remember, knowledge is power! 🧠💪➡️

DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION IS RELIABLE BUT NOT GUARANTEED. Always do your own due diligence!

🎖️ Veterans, you just got a raise — but how much will it actually change your life?

In this episode of Prepare to Compete, we break down the projected 2026 Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for VA disability and military retirement pay. From 10% to 100% service-connected disability, we walk you through exactly what the numbers mean — and what you can really expect to see in your check.

✅ What we cover: • When the COLA rate will be finalized • How much more you’ll receive (10–100% breakdown) • What happens if you’re applying for an increase • How to add dependents to your award • Hidden benefits unlocked at 0%, 10%, 50%, and 100% • VA math (and why it’s so confusing)

💡 Whether it’s $5 or $500, it’s not just about the money — it’s about the mission.

Chapters:

00:00 – You Just Got a Raise… Now What?

 01:20 – What COLA Really Means for Veterans

03:40 – When Will You See the Increase?

06:10 – How Much Will You Get? (10%–100%)

10:30 – Adding Dependents & Getting Paid More

13:00 – Hidden Benefits at Each Rating Level

19:00 – The Reality of VA Math Explained

22:30 – Major Benefits at 100% Disability

✅ Download the Veteran Success Blueprint ebooks at vets4vetsinfo.com for resources to navigate VA claims and maximize your benefits.

Join the Veteran Community for Free: https://www.vets4vetsinfo.com/offers/... 

🎖️🔗 For VA More Information: https://www.vets4vetsinfo.com/Help

🛑 Please note: We pride ourselves on providing reliable and accurate information. However, all information given in these videos is educational and should serve as a starting point in your individual research journey. We highly recommend contacting trusted experts for individual consultations regarding topics covered in our content. Remember, knowledge is power! 🧠💪➡️

DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION IS RELIABLE BUT NOT GUARANTEED. Always do your own due diligence!

This episode is a masterclass for veterans ready to claim what’s theirs. From missed benefits and misunderstood VA loan advantages to building generational wealth through real estate and entrepreneurship — this conversation is raw, strategic, and personal.

💥 What We Cover:​ • Why most veterans miss out on critical VA benefits​ • How real estate can unlock generational wealth​ • Lessons from leaving a stable job to scale a business​ • Navigating opportunity cost and modern entrepreneurship​ • How to build stability for your family (and your future)

👇 Chapters​

00:00 – Why I Quit My 9–5 (One Year Later)​

02:00 – How Veterans Miss Out on VA Benefits​

08:00 – Secrets to Filing a Strong VA Claim​

13:00 – What You're Losing by Waiting​

16:00 – From Benefits to Homeownership​

18:00 – Why Veterans Should Buy Now​

23:00 – The Real Power of Equity​

29:00 – Turning a VA Loan Into Wealth​

35:00 – Should Kids Leave Before Owning?​

43:00 – Building a Business After the Military​

48:00 – When Is It Really Time to Quit Your Job?​

56:00 – Opportunity Cost: What It Really Means​

1:02:00 – Navigating the Future of Work​

1:10:00 – The Truth About Balance & Burnout​

1:18:00 – Final Thoughts: Compete for Your Future

📘 Grab the free Maximizing VA Benefits eBook: https://www.vets4vetsinfo.com/vsb 

🎖️🔗 For VA More Information: https://www.vets4vetsinfo.com/Help

🛑 Please note: We pride ourselves on providing reliable and accurate information. However, all information given in these videos is educational and should serve as a starting point in your individual research journey. We highly recommend contacting trusted experts for individual consultations regarding topics covered in our content. Remember, knowledge is power! 🧠💪

➡️ DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION IS RELIABLE BUT NOT GUARANTEED. Always do your own due diligence!

What happens to U.S. veterans after they're deported?

In this powerful conversation, host Kavon Jones sits down with veterans advocate Kenneth Davis to explore the legal, emotional, and political realities facing deported U.S. military veterans. Many assume that deportation cuts off all access to VA benefits — but the truth is far more complex. From service-connected disability compensation to overseas resources, this episode reveals what support is still available, who qualifies, and how deported vets can reclaim part of what they’ve earned. Whether you’re a veteran, a family member, or an advocate for justice — this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

Key Takeaways:

-VA vs. ICE — who really controls veterans’ benefits?

-What benefits deported veterans can still receive

-Why some vets lose access — and how to avoid it

-Where deported veterans can get real help

-Hope and justice: the fight for repatriation

00:00 - Why Are Veterans Being Deported?

02:00 - What Really Happens After Deportation

05:00 - ICE vs. VA: Who Has the Power?

08:00 - Can Deported Veterans Still Get VA Benefits?

13:00 - Limitations & Challenges Overseas

17:00 - What Disqualifies Veterans from Benefits?

22:00 - Justice, Repatriation, and Final Thoughts

✅ Download the Veteran Success Blueprint ebooks at vets4vetsinfo.com for resources to navigate VA claims and maximize your benefits.

Join the Veteran Community for Free: https://www.vets4vetsinfo.com/offers/Z97W2vqP/checkout?coupon_code=VET2024

🎖️🔗 For VA Benefits Information, click here: https://vets4vetsconsulting.com/

🏡💰 For Real Estate Information, dive in here: https://linktr.ee/KavonJones

🛑 Please note: We pride ourselves on providing reliable and accurate information. However, all information given in these videos is educational and should serve as a starting point in your individual research journey. We highly recommend contacting trusted experts for individual consultations regarding topics covered in our content. Remember, knowledge is power! 🧠💪➡️

🎖️ Veterans — Major VA Benefits Changes Are Coming in 2025. Are You Ready?

In this powerful episode of Prepare to Compete, we break down critical updates to VA disability claims — including major changes to sleep apnea, tinnitus, and mental health ratings. If you're a veteran filing a claim (or thinking about it), this is a must-watch.

We also dive into:

✔️ The truth about longer claim delays

✔️ Why the C&P exam can make or break your case

✔️ The biggest mistakes veterans make — and how to avoid them

✔️ How to organize your records for faster approvals

✔️ Why going through the claim process alone is risky

💬 Tell us in the comments: Where are you watching from? How can we help you succeed?

🧠 This isn’t just a podcast — it’s your roadmap to real results.

00:00 - The Truth About VA Claims & Veteran Mental Health

03:00 - Big Changes Coming in 2025: Sleep Apnea, Tinnitus & Mental Health Ratings

07:00 - How to Prepare Your VA Claim the Right Way

11:00 - C&P Exams: What Veterans Get Wrong

15:00 - Staying Encouraged Through the VA Process

19:00 - Why You Shouldn’t Go Through This Alone

✅ Download the Veteran Success Blueprint ebooks at vets4vetsinfo.com for resources to navigate VA claims and maximize your benefits. Join the Veteran Community for Free: https://www.vets4vetsinfo.com/offers/... 

🎖️🔗 For VA Benefits Information, click here: https://vets4vetsconsulting.com/ 🏡💰 For Real Estate Information, dive in here: https://linktr.ee/KavonJones 

🛑 Please note: We pride ourselves on providing reliable and accurate information. However, all information given in these videos is educational and should serve as a starting point in your individual research journey. We highly recommend contacting trusted experts for individual consultations regarding topics covered in our content. Remember, knowledge is power! 🧠💪➡️ DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION IS RELIABLE BUT NOT GUARANTEED. Always do your own due diligence!

If you're a veteran looking to claim everything you’ve earned — you're in the right place! In this video, we walk you through a step-by-step guide to understanding, applying for, and maximizing your VA benefits in 2025.

✅ What You’ll Learn Today:

What VA benefits include beyond just disability ratings How to start your VA claim the right way The truth behind common VA myths How a Nexus Letter can change your claim What secondary conditions are (and how they boost your rating) The real strategies to reach 100% disability How to navigate the appeals process if you're denied Choosing the right help: VSOs, attorneys, and consultants

Final advice to get the benefits you’ve earned 🎯 Get your FREE guide here: https://www.vets4vetsinfo.com/veteran-success-blueprint-eg

Chapters:

0:00 – Highlight Reel

1:30 – Introduction

3:00 – What Are VA Benefits?

7:00 – Understanding the VA Claims Process

13:00 – Common Myths That Hold Veterans Back

17:00 – The Power of the Nexus Letter

22:00 – Secondary Conditions

26:00 – Getting to 100% Disability

32:00 – The Appeals Process

37:00 – Closing Remarks

🛑 Please note: We pride ourselves on providing reliable and accurate information. However, all information given in these videos is educational and should serve as a starting point in your individual research journey. We highly recommend contacting trusted experts for individual consultations regarding topics covered in our content. Remember, knowledge is power!

🧠💪➡️ DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION IS RELIABLE BUT NOT GUARANTEED. Always do your own due diligence!

From the frontlines of Iraq to the front lines of real estate. In this episode of Veteran Voices, we sit down with Caitlyn Duffy, a combat veteran who transformed her military discipline, grit, and empathy into a thriving career helping fellow veterans achieve homeownership through VA loans.

At just 18 years old, Caitlyn was deployed to Iraq where she witnessed firsthand the cost of service — both physically and emotionally. Through deeply personal stories, she opens up about the challenges of reintegration, finding new purpose, and why she’s so passionate about educating vets on what they’ve earned through their benefits.

🎙️ You’ll learn:

-The moment Caitlyn realized she needed to make a change after combat -How her service shaped her leadership in the mortgage industry -The truth about VA loans and how veterans can avoid being taken advantage of -What every transitioning vet should know about building wealth through real estate.

✅ Download the Veteran Success Blueprint ebooks at vets4vetsinfo.com for resources to navigate VA claims and maximize your benefits.

Join the Veteran Community for Free: https://www.vets4vetsinfo.com/offers/Z97W2vqP/checkout?coupon_code=VET2024

🎖️🔗 For VA Benefits Information, click here: https://vets4vetsconsulting.com/

🏡💰 For Real Estate Information, dive in here: https://linktr.ee/KavonJones

Chapters:

00:00 - Intro: From War to Wealth 01:00 - Meet Caitlyn Duffy: Army Veteran & VA Loan Expert 02:30 - What Made Her Join the Military 05:30 - Family Support & Military Roots 07:00 - Basic Training & Early Shock 09:00 - First Deployment to Iraq at 18 11:00 - Culture Shock & Growing Up Fast 13:30 - Life in AIT: Learning, Adapting, and a Funny Story 16:00 - Arriving in Germany & Deployment Experience 18:30 - First Combat Moments & Lessons in Leadership 22:00 - The Reality of Combat and Resilience 25:00 - Caitlyn’s Military Journey: 10 Years, 5 Deployments 28:00 - Injuries, Burnout & the Choice to Exit the Military 31:00 - Transition to Civilian Life and New Purpose 33:00 - Why VA Loans Matter (and How They Work) 36:00 - Biggest Myths About VA Loans — Debunked 38:00 - Zero Down Payment Explained 41:00 - Closing Costs, State Grants & Assistance 43:00 - When to Buy a Home (Hint: It’s Always “Last Year”) 46:00 - Interest Rates and Humble Beginnings 49:00 - Building Wealth with the VA Loan 50:00 - Caitlyn’s Real Client Success Story 53:00 - VA Disability Benefits & Funding Fee Exemption 56:00 - County Tax Exemptions for Disabled Veterans 58:00 - Buyer-Agent Commissions & VA Policy Update 01:01:00 - The Truth About VA Appraisals 01:03:00 - Can GI Bill BAH Be Used as Income? 01:04:30 - VA Assumable Loans: What to Know 01:08:00 - Final Strategy: Build Equity, Not Ego 01:11:00 - Advice for First-Time Buyers 01:12:00 - Why Caitlyn Does This Work 01:14:00 - Final Reflections & Veterans for Veterans Coin Moment

🛑 Please note: We pride ourselves on providing reliable and accurate information. However, all information given in these videos is educational and should serve as a starting point in your individual research journey. We highly recommend contacting trusted experts for individual consultations regarding topics covered in our content. Remember, knowledge is power!

🧠💪➡️ DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION IS RELIABLE BUT NOT GUARANTEED. Always do your own due diligence!

Could your veteran benefits be slashed in 2025? In this urgent episode of Prepare to Compete, Kavon Jones and Kenneth Davis break down the shocking CBO proposals that could dramatically impact millions of veterans across the U.S. From cutting disability pay and taxing VA benefits to ending healthcare access for key priority groups — these proposals are real, and they could change the future for countless veterans and their families. 🔎 In this episode, we cover: -What the CBO is proposing for veterans in 2025 -How “means testing” could strip benefits from households earning $170K+ -What happens to veterans over retirement age -The proposed end of Individual Unemployability -Threats to 10–30% disability ratings -The truth about taxing disability pay -Which healthcare groups are on the chopping block

✅ Download the Veteran Success Blueprint ebooks at vets4vetsinfo.com for resources to navigate VA claims and maximize your benefits.

Join the Veteran Community for Free: https://www.vets4vetsinfo.com/offers/Z97W2vqP/checkout?coupon_code=VET2024

🎖️🔗 For VA Benefits Information, click here: https://vets4vetsconsulting.com/

🏡💰 For Real Estate Information, dive in here: https://linktr.ee/KavonJones

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - The CBO Proposals That Could Change Veterans’ Lives

01:00 - Who We Are: Kayvon & Kenneth Introduce Themselves

02:00 - Why Is The Government Trying to Cut $797 Billion?

03:00 - Means Testing for Veterans: What It Means & Who It Hurts

05:00 - The Hidden Impact of Tax Filing on Veterans’ Benefits

07:00 - Ending Individual Unemployability at Retirement Age

10:00 - Vietnam Veterans At Risk: Proposed 30% Reduction After 67

14:00 - Eliminating Disability Benefits for Veterans Under 30% Rating

17:00 - How These Proposals Usually Work (And Why Some Never Pass)

19:00 - Ending Healthcare Access for VA Priority Groups 7 & 8

23:00 - The Shocking Proposal to Tax VA Disability Payments

26:00 - Final Thoughts: Advocacy, Awareness & What Veterans Should Do

28:00 - Outro: Stay Connected with Prepare to Compete

🛑 Please note: We pride ourselves on providing reliable and accurate information. However, all information given in these videos is educational and should serve as a starting point in your individual research journey. We highly recommend contacting trusted experts for individual consultations regarding topics covered in our content. Remember, knowledge is power! 🧠💪➡️

DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION IS RELIABLE BUT NOT GUARANTEED. Always do your own due diligence!

Are you making the most of your VA benefits? 🚀 In this must-watch episode, we break down the 2025 VA pay rates, real estate investing strategies, and business success tips for veterans. Learn how to use VA loans, house hacking, and smart financial moves to build long-term wealth. Whether you're a veteran or active-duty service member, this is your guide to maximizing benefits and securing your financial future! 💰🏡🔥” 🔹 Topics Covered: ✅ 2025 VA Pay Rate Updates & What They Mean for You ✅ House Hacking & Real Estate Strategies with VA Loans ✅ How Veterans Can Build Businesses & Achieve Financial Freedom ✅ Common Mistakes to Avoid & Insider Tips for Success 📌 [00:00 - 02:00] Introduction & What to Expect 📌 [02:01 - 10:00] Why Veterans Must Verify Their 2025 VA Pay Rates 📌 [10:01 - 18:00] Common VA Pay Mistakes & How to Fix Them 📌 [18:01 - 30:00] Breaking Down the 2025 VA Disability Pay Rates 📌 [30:01 - 42:00] VA Home Loan: How to Use It to Build Wealth 📌 [42:01 - 54:00] Real Estate Investment Strategies for Veterans 📌 [54:01 - 1:05:00] VA Loan Myths & Costly Mistakes to Avoid 📌 [1:05:01 - 1:18:00] Entrepreneurship for Veterans: Turning Military Skills into Business Success 📌 [1:18:01 - 1:30:00] The Hard Truth About Entrepreneurship 📌 [1:30:01 - 1:42:00] How to Join the Veteran Business & Real Estate Community 📌 [1:42:01 - 1:45:00] Final Thoughts & Call to Action 📢 Watch now & take control of your future! #VeteranSuccess #VAloans #FinancialFreedom #VeteranEntrepreneur ✅ Download the Veteran Success Blueprint ebooks at vets4vetsinfo.com for resources to navigate VA claims and maximize your benefits. Join the Veteran Community for Free: https://www.vets4vetsinfo.com/offers/Z97W2vqP/checkout?coupon_code=VET2024 🎖️🔗 For VA Benefits Information, click here: https://vets4vetsconsulting.com/ 🏡💰 For Real Estate Information, dive in here: https://linktr.ee/KavonJones 🛑 Please note: We pride ourselves on providing reliable and accurate information. However, all information given in these videos is educational and should serve as a starting point in your individual research journey. We highly recommend contacting trusted experts for individual consultations regarding topics covered in our content. Remember, knowledge is power! 🧠💪➡️ DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION IS RELIABLE BUT NOT GUARANTEED. Always do your own due diligence!

Are you ready for the 2025 VA Disability Compensation updates? In this video, we break down everything veterans need to know about the latest pay rates and changes to VA benefits. Whether you’re a Gulf War veteran, Post-9/11 veteran, or transitioning service member, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the VA system and maximize your compensation. Discover key insights about: The 2025 VA disability pay rates and how they’re calculated. The value of 0% disability ratings and what they mean for your benefits. Common misconceptions about VA pay that could be costing you money. Tips to ensure you’re getting the compensation you’ve earned. This video is part of the Prepare to Compete Podcast, where we bring you expert advice on VA benefits, real estate, entrepreneurship, and more. Stay informed and ensure you’re taking full advantage of what you’ve earned through your service.

00:00 Introduction and Importance of VA Benefits

02:00 Why Verifying Your 2025 VA Pay Rates is Crucial

05:00 Common Mistakes When Checking VA Compensation

10:00 Comprehensive Breakdown of 2025 VA Disability Compensation Rates

22:00 Maximizing VA Benefits and Final Advice for Veterans

✅ Download the Veteran Success Blueprint ebooks at vets4vetsinfo.com for resources to navigate VA claims and maximize your benefits. Join the Veteran Community for Free: https://www.vets4vetsinfo.com/offers/Z97W2vqP/checkout?coupon_code=VET2024

🎖️🔗 For VA Benefits Information, click here: https://vets4vetsconsulting.com/

🏡💰 For Real Estate Information, dive in here: https://linktr.ee/KavonJones

🛑 Please note: We pride ourselves on providing reliable and accurate information. However, all information given in these videos is educational and should serve as a starting point in your individual research journey. We highly recommend contacting trusted experts for individual consultations regarding topics covered in our content. Remember, knowledge is power!

🧠💪➡️ DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION IS RELIABLE BUT NOT GUARANTEED. Always do your own due diligence!