Transition Drill

From surviving an IED blast to thriving post-service, explore a Marine Corps veteran's transition journey and life after the military.

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In this episode of the Transition Drill podcast, I got to talk with John Jones. John grew up wanting to be in the military and joined the Marine Corps in 1995; only after a hiccup trying to join the Army. John was fully committed to a career, but a life-altering experience with a roadside IED while deployed in Iraq in 2003 changed this. This pivotal moment not only tested his physical endurance but also his mental fortitude. John medically retired in 2007 at the rank of Staff Sergeant.

As he navigated the challenges of living with a disability, John's resilience and determination became a beacon for many facing similar paths in their veteran transition. John's recovery journey is a testament to the indomitable spirit of servicemen and women. We talk about the multifaceted challenges he faced, from grueling physical therapy to the emotional toll of reconciling with his new reality. Yet, with unwavering support from fellow veterans and dedicated professionals, John emerged with renewed purpose, ready to tackle the next chapter of his life. Also in 2007, he was featured in the documentary Alive Day Memories with James Gandolfini.

As John transitioned from active duty, he faced the universal question many veterans grapple with: What are the best jobs after leaving the military? Leveraging his unique skill set and experiences, John found his calling in the non-profit sector. Today, John is the Executive Director of VBC Giving Foundation, advocating for fellow veterans. VBC Giving Foundation is spearheading sustainable, safe, respectable, quality, and affordable housing for military veterans.

John’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the potential that lies within every veteran, even when faced with adversity.

CONNECT WITH JOHN:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnpwjones/

https://vbcgivingfoundation.org/

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In this episode of the Transition Drill podcast I delve into the life and career transitions of Gary Faust, a former law enforcement officer. The conversation begins with a nostalgic look back at his upbringing in Orange County, where he was influenced by his father's dedication to law enforcement in Santa Ana. His mother, too, had a stint in the police department, making it almost inevitable for him to be drawn to the profession. As he reminisces about his early exposure to the world of policing through ride-alongs with his father, he acknowledges the profound impact it had on his decision to pursue a career in law enforcement. Gary retired in 2014 after 27 years between the Garden Grove and Huntington Beach Police Departments. 

However, the narrative takes a turn when the topic shifts to life after police work. After serving diligently and rising to the rank of Lieutenant, he began contemplating what to do after retiring from law enforcement. An unexpected passion for wine, ignited by a wine class at the Montage in Laguna Beach, set him on a new path. This newfound interest led him to Hi-Time Wine Cellars in Costa Mesa, where he transitioned from being a police officer to becoming a knowledgeable wine salesperson and eventually a French wine buyer. The transition wasn't without its challenges, as the wine industry initially seemed skeptical about what a former cop could bring to the table. However, with persistence and passion, he carved a niche for himself.

The podcast underscores the importance of adaptability and the courage to pursue new interests, even after a fulfilling career in a demanding field like law enforcement. It serves as an inspiration for those contemplating leaving law enforcement for a new career and emphasizes that it's never too late to chase a new dream or passion. The story is a testament to the endless possibilities that await after hanging up the badge and the importance of finding a new purpose post-retirement.

CONNECT WITH GARY:

https://www.instagram.com/gary.faust/

https://www.hitimewine.net/

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In a candid discussion, I get into the life and passions of Bobby Holland, a retired Navy SEAL with a penchant for golf. We discuss his transition from the military to civilian life and subsequently starting his golf apparel company – Hoolie. Bobby grew up playing and loving football as well as the discipline and resilience it instilled in him. These traits would later serve him well during his challenging training at BUD/S. However, despite his athletic prowess, he admits to not having a clear vision for his future post-high school, leading him to consider alternative paths. Bobby served 21 years as a SEAL, with multiple combat deployments and retired in 2021 at the rank of Chief Warrant Officer.

CONNECT WITH BOBBY:

https://hooliegolf.com/

https://www.instagram.com/hooliegolf/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobby-holland/

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 In this episode, I delve into the life of Andrew Cruz, a man whose journey from L.A. to the discipline of the Marine Corps has shaped him into a multifaceted entrepreneur. Andrew served 18 years and got out as Gunnery Sergeant in 2021. This is a must-listen for first responders, law enforcement, military veterans, and anyone interested in the intersection of service and entrepreneurship.

 Andrew's early life was marked by constant movement. Born in L.A., he moved to Costa Rica at a young age, only to return to California later in his childhood. Despite the challenges of relocating, Andrew's optimistic spirit, inherited from his Costa Rican mother, kept him resilient. As he approached the end of high school, Andrew faced a pivotal decision: college or the military. His mother's insistence on choosing one of these paths, combined with his own procrastination, led him to the Marine Corps. A friend's cousin's involvement in the Marines further influenced this choice.

Andrew's time in the Marine Corps was transformative. While he initially joined with the intention of transitioning to law enforcement, the discipline, camaraderie, and opportunities in the Marines shifted his perspective. Despite facing challenges, including a reduction in rank due to an underage drinking incident, Andrew's resilience shone through. He initially re-enlisted, capitalizing on a re-enlistment bonus opportunity, but later in his career he went active reserves because of a business opportunity only to come back to active duty when the opportunity did not fulfill him.

Andrew's journey didn't stop at the Marine Corps. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to venture into various businesses. From ATMs to portable photobooths, Andrew's ventures showcased his adaptability and drive. However, it was his foray into the gym business that truly stood out. Today he owns multiple Camp Transformation Centers. Also, recognizing the gaps in the industry, Andrew is developing specialized software for gyms, further solidifying his reputation as a versatile entrepreneur.

Andrew’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and the drive to constantly evolve. Whether you're a veteran looking for inspiration or an entrepreneur seeking insights, this episode offers valuable lessons for all.

CONNECT WITH ANDREW:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-cruz-b49b6242/

https://www.simplexmarketingsystem.com/

https://www.instagram.com/andrewcruz_101/

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In this episode I had a candid conversation with Shanon Morris. Shanon shares her unexpected journey to the Naval Academy. Growing up in the suburbs of Illinois, she had never heard of the Naval Academy until a flyer arrived in her mail during her high school years. A subsequent trip to Washington, D.C., and a tour of the academy changed the trajectory of her life. Despite initial challenges and thoughts of quitting during her early days at the academy, she found her footing and even founded the dance team, showcasing her leadership skills.

Her upbringing, marked by a blend of Taiwanese and American cultures, instilled in her the values of discipline, education, and hard work. As a competitive figure skater and dancer, she learned the importance of teamwork and coordination, skills that would later serve her well in the military. However, her aspirations weren't initially aligned with the military; she had dreams of joining the intelligence community, inspired by her love for books about the CIA.

Upon graduation from the Naval Academy in 2014, she found herself on a ship, deployed to the Middle East. While the experience wasn't what she had envisioned, it taught her resilience and adaptability. Her goal remained to transition to the intelligence community. However, a severe car accident and subsequent medical challenges cut her military journey short, leading to her exit after four years.

The decision to leave the military was not easy. Having attained her master’s degree in Homeland Security, she has since worked as an Intel Analyst with the FBI and she has worked for Google. Today Shanon and her husband, Matt, set out on a new venture: starting their business, Hop On Hold On where they consult veterans on transition from the military and help them build a life they’ve always dreamed of.

 This podcast is a testament to Shanon’s resilience and adaptability, making it a must-listen for first responders, law enforcement, military veterans, and anyone facing life's unexpected challenges. Her story underscores the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and the courage to chart one's own path, even when faced with adversity.

CONNECT WITH SHANON:

https://www.hoponandholdon.com/

https://www.instagram.com/hoponandholdon/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/shanonlmorris/

In this episode, I interview Nick Velez. Nick is a first-generation Mexican American who not only broke barriers by becoming the first in his family to join the U.S. Marine Corps but also navigated the challenges of transitioning back to civilian life.

The decision to join the military wasn't made on a whim. Inspired by his 6th-grade teacher, an Army Ranger, Nick’s initial desire was to join the Army. Then a transformative experience at the Devil Pup Program in Camp Pendleton, he felt an undeniable pull towards the Marine Corps. The tragic events of 9/11 further solidified his resolve. Throughout his high school years, he eagerly participated in preparatory training sessions, and enlisted in the Marine Corps in 2005. Nick served 11 months in Iraq during the surge in 2006. War changed him and he decided to get out in 2009 at the end of his first enlistment.   

Upon returning from service, Nick faced the universal challenges many veterans encounter when transitioning back to civilian life. However, instead of merely adapting, he took the initiative to start a restaurant Bastards Canteen with his best friend and fellow Marine Calvin Spencer. Nick draws on the discipline required in the military to succeed in the business worlds. His entrepreneurial spirit didn't stop there. Recognizing the struggles of his fellow veterans, he founded "Save the Brave", a non-profit organization dedicated to helping and supporting those who served.

For first responders, law enforcement, and military veterans, this podcast offers a relatable narrative on service, sacrifice, and the pursuit of dreams. It underscores the importance of support systems, both in the battlefield and at home, and highlights the potential for reinvention and growth after service.

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CONNECT WITH NICK:

https://bastardscanteen.com/

https://savethebrave.org/

https://www.instagram.com/bastardscanteen/

https://www.instagram.com/savethebraveorg/

In this episode, I got to talk with Andrew “Sully” Sullivan, a retired Navy SEAL Chief Petty Officer. Sullivan shares his journey to becoming a member of one of the most elite military units in the world. After serving for 18 years and medically retiring in 2020 he started the non-profit Community First Project, where he and his team are providing training to law enforcement which focuses on tactics and emphases de-escalation. Sully's story is a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and a sense of duty.

Sully, grew up in a blue-collar family with a modest military lineage. His passion for sports and a desire for a challenging career led him to consider joining the military. However, it wasn't until the tragic events of 9/11 that Sully felt a strong call to serve his country. Sully's journey to becoming a Navy SEAL wasn't easy. He faced numerous physical and mental challenges during his training, but his determination and resilience saw him through. He attributes his success to his slightly older age and life experience, which gave him an edge over his younger counterparts.

 Once deployed, Sully's experiences were not what he initially expected. His first two deployments were to Iraq, and he found the work less fulfilling than he had hoped. This led him to consider leaving the military. However, after screening for the Development Group (DEVGRU), Sully found the challenge and sense of purpose he had been seeking.

Sully's time in the SEALs was marked by camaraderie and a shared sense of purpose. He talks of his teammates, describing them as the best group of guys he's ever worked with. However, the demanding nature of the job took a toll on his personal life, leading to a divorce and shared custody of his children.

Sully is using his experience to help others. He has started Community First Project, a non-profit organization that provides training to law enforcement. Sully emphasizes the importance of this work, stating that it's not just about improving the skills of individual officers, but also about strengthening the bonds within the law enforcement community.

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CONNECT WITH SULLY:

https://c1p.org/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-sullivan-647826175/

https://www.instagram.com/community_first_project/

 In this episode, I sat down to talk with retired 20-year Marine Corps veteran, MSgt. Derek Mensen. Derek's early life was steeped in the typical American pastimes of football and baseball, with a brief foray into wrestling. His family, while not having a history of military service, was supportive when Derek and his older brother decided to join the military. Derek's decision to join the Marine Corps was influenced by his older brother's less than satisfactory experience in the Army.

Derek's military career was diverse and challenging. He began his service at the Naval Academy, a unique duty station that provided him with a well-rounded background and valuable networking opportunities. He later served in the Chemical Biological Incident Response Force, which offered unique training opportunities, albeit in a more administrative role.

Around the nine-year mark in his career, Derek joined the Marine Special Operations Command (MARSOC), a decision he made despite being considered "older" in the assessment / selection process. Derek ultimately had 6 combat deployments. His time in the Raider community was a significant part of his career, but as he approached the end of his service, he was thrust into a transition to the Team Chief role, which he used to his benefit to prepare for civilian life.

Derek's transition was aided by programs like the Honor Foundation, which helped him find his "golden thread" and his "why". He also pursued a Master of Business for Veterans at USC, which led him to meet his current business partners of the San Diego based Trident Coffee Roasters. Today, he is the Director of Operations.

This podcast episode is a must-listen for military veterans, especially those considering a transition to civilian life. Derek's story is a testament to the value of adaptability, foresight, and the willingness to seize opportunities as they come.

PODCAST - LISTEN, WATCH, AND SUBSCRIBE 

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CONNECT WITH DEREK:

https://www.instagram.com/tridentcoffee/

https://www.tridentcoffee.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/derekmensen/

In this episode of the Transition Drill Podcast, I’m joined by Christopher Hoyer, a retired police officer from the Phoenix Police Department. Chris shares his journey from a troubled youth to a 20-year career in law enforcement, and his experiences dealing with trauma and its aftermath.

Chris grew up in a single-parent household, with his mother being his primary caregiver. His biological father, a Marine Force Recon who served in Vietnam, was absent from his life. Despite the challenges, Chris developed a no-quit attitude that carried him through his life.

His journey into law enforcement was not a straight path. After moving from New Hampshire to Arizona, he started a carpet installation business. It was during a random carpet installation that a customer suggested he would make a good police officer. This suggestion sparked a career change that led him to serve 20 years with the Phoenix Police Department.

During his service, Chris was involved in several shootings, including an ambush that took the life of his friend and fellow officer. He admits that he didn't properly address the trauma he experienced, which was a catalyst for his early retirement in 2018.

In the aftermath, Chris has become a public speaker, sharing his experiences and the lessons he learned about dealing with trauma. He's also written a book, "When the Day Comes, Training for the Fight," where he offers insights on how to survive a career as a first responder.

This episode is a must-listen for first responders, offering a raw and honest look at the realities of a career in law enforcement. It provides valuable insights into dealing with trauma and the importance of mental health in high-stress professions.

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CONNECT WITH KEVIN:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-hoyer-25398192/

https://www.instagram.com/hoyerchristopher/

Welcome to another amazing episode of the podcast. We delve into the life, the struggles, and the triumphs of a veteran. This is the story of Kevin Gilley, a Navy veteran who served his country with pride and honor, but faced a battle of a different kind when he returned home.

Kevin grew up dreaming of becoming a firefighter, a dream he pursued from his high school days. Many firefighters he knew had served in the military, which gave them an extra advantage when applying for firefighter roles. This inspired Kevin to join the Navy right after high school, with the intention to gain the extra points for his firefighting career.

In the Navy, Kevin initially signed up as a damage controlman, focusing on firefighting, but later switched to being a corpsman due to better advancement opportunities. He served as part of the Search and Rescue (SAR) team. He served two tours in Iraq and spent seven months in Indonesia for humanitarian assistance as part of Operation Unified Assistance following a devastating tsunami.

After his four-year service, Kevin left the Navy to pursue his dream of becoming a firefighter. However, he began to struggle with anxiety, nightmares, and untreated PTS, which led him to alcohol as a coping mechanism. His struggles with alcoholism and PTS had a significant impact on his life post-Navy, leading to a series of personal and professional challenges. Including a couple stints in prison and a period of living homeless on the streets of Las Vegas.

Kevin's story is a stark reminder of the unseen battles military members often face. It's a call to action for us to support veterans, to understand their struggles, and to help them find the resources they need. It's also a testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity. To all military members out there, know that you're not alone. There are resources and communities ready to stand with you. And remember, it's okay to ask for help. Your strength is not defined by your struggles, but by your ability to overcome them.

PODCAST - LISTEN, WATCH, AND SUBSCRIBE 

https://linktr.ee/TransitionDrillPodcast

CONNECT WITH KEVIN:

https://www.instagram.com/two8ninemedia/

[email protected]