Transition Drill

In this podcast episode, we delve into the life of Angel Soriano, a former Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant, who shares his journey from being a skateboarder to serving in the military. Angel's story is one of transformation and growth, offering valuable insights for military members and those interested in understanding the military lifestyle.

 

Angel grew up in a small family with two brothers in Whittier, California. As a child, he was a bit of a troublemaker and a passionate skateboarder, dreaming of going professional. However, as he grew older, his interests shifted towards physical fitness and exercise, which eventually led him to consider joining the Marine Corps.

 

The military had always been a part of Angel's life, with both his father and brother serving in the Marine Corps. After high school, Angel decided to follow in their footsteps. Despite the ongoing war in Iraq and his mother's concerns, Angel enlisted in the Marine Corps in 2006.

 

Angel's time in the Marine Corps was transformative. He learned the value of structure, discipline, and camaraderie. He served two deployments in Iraq between 2007 and 2009. Despite the challenges, Angel embraced his role in the infantry, believing it to be the foundation of the Marine Corps.

 

After four years of active duty, Angel left the Marine Corps but found himself missing the structure and culture. He joined the reserves and began exploring his options for the future. Angel recognized the value of education and decided to use his Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits to pursue higher education.

 

Angel's story is a testament to the transformative power of the military. His journey from a skateboarder to a Marine Corps infantryman highlights the opportunities and challenges that come with military service. This podcast episode offers valuable insights for military members, particularly those considering transitioning to civilian life or furthering their education.

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CONNECT WITH ANGEL:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/m4l-la/

#transitiondrillpodcast #military #firstresponders #police

In episode 98 of the Transition Drill podcast, we delve into the life and career of Kevin Seiff, a former Navy SEAL and Marine Corps officer who transitioned into entrepreneurship. Kevin's journey began at the age of 12 when he met a Navy SEAL and was inspired to follow a similar path. After attending the Naval Academy and serving in the Marine Corps, with 1 combat deployment to Afghanistan, Kevin transferred to the Navy and served as a SEAL officer for seven years.

 

During his military career, Kevin had unique experiences, such as being one of the few SEALs stationed in Korea during a period of escalating tensions. He worked closely with some “three-letter” agencies and high-ranking military officials, gaining invaluable skills and insights. However, after a decade in the military, Kevin desired more control over his professional career, leading to his discharge in 2020.

 

Today, Kevin is the owner of Flintlock Solutions, a recruiting firm working with life science and technology companies. He also runs The Vetrepreneur Collective, where he trains veterans to leverage their military skills and experiences to become entrepreneurs.

 

This episode offers valuable insights into the transition from military service to entrepreneurship, making it a must-listen for military members, first responders, and budding entrepreneurs. Kevin's story is a testament to the transferability of military skills to the business world and the potential for veterans to carve out successful post-military careers.

 

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CONNECT WITH KEVIN:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-seiff/

https://flintlocksolutions.com/

https://www.vetrepreneurcollective.com/

 

RECOMMENDED BOOKS:

Profit First: Transform Your Business from a Cash-Eating Monster to a Money-Making Machine https://www.amazon.com/Profit-First-Transform-Cash-Eating-Money-Making/dp/073521414X/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=1-1   The E-Myth Revisited: Why Most Small Businesses Don't Work and What to Do About It https://www.amazon.com/Myth-Revisited-Businesses-published-HarperCollins/dp/B00E27YS0A/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=e-myth+revisited+by+michael+gerber&s=books&sr=1-2   The Infinite Game https://www.amazon.com/Infinite-Game-Simon-Sinek/dp/073521350X/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=1-1   Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action

https://www.amazon.com/Start-Why-Leaders-Inspire-Everyone/dp/1591842808/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=1-3

 In this episode of the Transition Drill podcast, I got to talk with Lt. Colonel Isaac Lee, a retired Marine Corps helicopter pilot who served for 20 years with multiple combat deployments. Isaac shares his journey from being a student studying advertising to becoming a Marine, and then becoming a Senior VP of Operations for a company in San Diego after his retirement in 2017.

 

Isaac discusses his decision to join the Marine Corps and how he actively planned and prepared for his transition from military to civilian life. He shares his experiences of translating military skills into business language and how he continues to mentor veterans, helping them navigate their own transitions.

 

Isaac also gives a sneak peek into his upcoming book, a memoir that details his transformation from a scared young lieutenant to a seasoned military officer. He talks about his experiences in the Marine Corps and the mental health challenges he faced during his transition.

 

The episode emphasizes the importance of mental health. Isaac encourages veterans and first responders to take care of their mental health and seek counseling, particularly if they've lived an extreme career. He shares his concerns about the issues many veterans face, such as substance abuse and marital problems, and encourages them to get ahead of these problems.

 

This episode is a must-listen for anyone transitioning from the military to civilian life, offering valuable insights and advice on preparing for the transition, taking care of mental health, and translating military skills into the civilian world.

 

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CONNECT WITH ISAAC:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/isaaclee1/

Join me in this episode of the Transition Drill podcast, we delve into the life of Ashoka, a former Green Beret turned musician. Ashoka's journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of personal growth.

 

Ashoka's military career began with a deep-seated desire to serve his country. Despite the challenges and sacrifices, he was driven by the honor and respect he earned as a Green Beret. However, his commitment to his daughter led him to make the difficult decision to leave the military and relocate to San Diego.

 

His post-military life saw him working with the CIA for a year before deciding to pursue a master's degree in international affairs. After graduating, he returned to government work but also embarked on a journey of self-discovery and healing, exploring introspection, trauma acceptance, and psychedelic therapy.

 

This healing journey reignited Ashoka's passion for music, leading him to form the band Love N Lightning with his fiancé. Their first song, "Brother In My Arms," is a testament to Ashoka's journey and his hope to help other veterans heal through music.

 

Ashoka's story is a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of military members. His transition from a Green Beret to a musician symbolizes the potential for transformation and healing, even in the face of adversity. His journey serves as an inspiration for military members, veterans, and anyone facing personal challenges.

 

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CONNECT WITH ASHOKA:

https://www.instagram.com/lovenlightningmusic/

 

In this episode of the Transition Drill podcast, we delve into the life and career of Craig Garcia, a police officer with over two decades of experience. He retired from Mesa PD in 2021 at the rank of Sergeant. Craig's journey in law enforcement is a testament to resilience and adaptability.

Craig began his career in a newly formed police department on an Indian reservation, where he faced the unique challenge of enforcing laws among individuals who were initially resistant to their presence. He lateraled to Mesa PD after 3 years and where he finished his career.

During his tenure, Craig worked in various assignments, including SWAT, gangs, and the major felon unit. He shares a gripping account of an operation that resulted in him being shot, highlighting the inherent risks law enforcement officers face daily.

Craig's dedication to his profession is evident in his efforts to develop an Arizona POST approved basic cell phone investigation training class. This innovative approach leverages cell phone records to locate and apprehend wanted suspects, demonstrating Craig's commitment to evolving law enforcement techniques.

After retiring from law enforcement, Craig joined LexisNexis, where he continues to train officers on using cell phone records to locate fugitives. His story underscores the importance of resilience, preparation, and adaptability in law enforcement, making it an inspiring listen for both seasoned officers and those new to the field.

 

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CONNECT WITH CRAIG:

[email protected]

Join me in this episode for a profound conversation with Joe Hudak, a retired Green Beret – Special Mission Unit. Joe served 20 years in the Army and had 11 combat deployments. He shares his personal journey of battling trauma, seeking treatment, and finding hope in unconventional approaches. This episode is a must-listen for members of the military and law enforcement who are navigating their own challenges and seeking effective solutions.

Joe opens up about the realities of combat and the toll it takes on mental health. He candidly discusses the initial struggles, including the stigma surrounding mental health treatment and the challenges of finding effective support within the military and VA systems. Joe shares his experience with various treatment methods and the importance of finding the right approach for each individual. From medication cocktails and therapy to the decision to taper off medications, he provides insights into his personal journey and highlights the significance of self-advocacy and exploring alternative options.

We then take a dive into the transformative power of meditation and psychedelics. Joe discusses how meditation enhanced his self-awareness, enabling him to better navigate his thoughts and emotions. He also shares his firsthand experience with a five-day program involving the use of ibogaine and DMT, explaining how these psychedelic treatments provided breakthroughs in healing trauma and fostering a sense of peace and love.

Joe addresses his role as a mentor in the veterans' court system and emphasizes the importance of seeking help and building self-awareness early on. He offers valuable advice for veterans and first responders, urging them to take advantage of the available resources and overcome the stigma associated with seeking mental health support.

 

DIRECT LINK FOR PODCAST EPISODE 94:

https://transitiondrillpodcast.libsyn.com/

 

 

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CONNECT WITH JOE:

https://www.instagram.com/jhuda18/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-hudak/

In this engaging podcast episode, Dave Weiner, a military veteran and seasoned law enforcement professional, shares his personal journey from serving 8 years in the Air Force, then over 20 years in Federal law enforcement to starting his own training and education firm, Secure Measures. Dave's expertise lies in bridging the gap between the military and law enforcement communities by offering specialized training programs focused on understanding the veteran experience in public safety.

As a veteran himself, Dave recognizes the unique challenges faced by individuals transitioning from military service to civilian life, particularly in the context of law enforcement. He provides valuable insights into the importance of planning for the future, finding a new mission, and seeking mentorship during the transitional phase.

Listeners will gain firsthand knowledge about Dave's public safety training programs, which aim to equip public safety personnel with a deep understanding of military culture, language, mental health conditions, and common challenges faced by veterans. These programs are POST-certified, ensuring credibility and industry recognition.

The conversation delves into the significance of creating effective communication channels between law enforcement and veterans. Dave shares stories of guest speakers—combat veterans with firsthand encounters with law enforcement—who offer valuable perspectives on how to handle such situations with sensitivity and understanding.

Moreover, the podcast emphasizes the need for proactive engagement with the Veterans Affairs (VA) system. Dave encourages veterans to start planning early, tap into available resources, and establish a preliminary relationship with the local VA, even if they feel they may not need immediate assistance. He shares practical advice for navigating the VA system and maximizing the benefits veterans have earned.

Additionally, Dave shares his own experience of starting a business and provides crucial tips for aspiring entrepreneurs, especially those with a military or law enforcement background. He highlights the significance of finding a mentor, understanding the market, and effectively utilizing social media to establish a strong brand presence.

 

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CONNECT WITH DAVE:

https://secure-measures.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-weiner-mpsy-184bb18/

 

Kate Allgood, a former ice hockey player and founder of Quantum Performance, shares her journey from being a promising athlete to transitioning into a career in sports psychology. Kate talks about her early years playing hockey in Canada, competing against boys and eventually becoming a potential candidate for the 2010 Winter Olympics. After graduating college, she came to Southern California to train and play in a professional women's league, but the league folded, leading her to reevaluate her career path.

 

The unexpected turn of events led Kate to reflect on her passion for hockey and consider her future. Being away from the familiar environment of Toronto allowed her to explore her own identity and ambitions. As she weighed her options and contemplated her next steps, she decided to retire from hockey. This decision was met with mixed reactions, particularly from her father, who had high expectations for her.

 

 Following her retirement, Kate remained in San Diego and pursued a certification program in Muscle Activation Techniques. She also enrolled in graduate school, specializing in applied sports psychology. After completing her studies, Kate founded Quantum Performance, a high-performance coaching firm focused on mental training for high achievers. Kate has since worked with elite athletes, Navy SEALs, SWAT Officers, and Marine Corps Pilots, helping them optimize their performance through mental training.

 

Kate is also the author of 3 books, the most recent: The Athlete Within: How to Build Your Mental Game for Peak Performance, published in 2023. She also wrote: Get Into The Zone: The Essential Guide To High Performance Through Mental Training, published in 2021 and Fortitude: The Essential Guide to Building and Sustaining Mental Toughness, published in 2017. The link for each book is below also.

 

PODCAST - LISTEN, WATCH, AND SUBSCRIBE

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CONNECT WITH KATE:

https://www.qpathlete.com/

https://www.instagram.com/qpathlete/

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

 

KATES BOOKS:

The Athlete Within: How to build Your Mental Game for Peak Performance

https://www.amazon.com/Athlete-Within-build-mental-performance-ebook/dp/B0BW4X3SC7/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=kate+allgood&sr=8-1

 

Get Into The Zone: The Essential Guide To High Performance Through Mental Training

https://www.amazon.com/Get-Into-Zone-Essential-Performance-ebook/dp/B098TRFGS6/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=kate+allgood&sr=8-2

 

Fortitude: The Essential Guide to Building and Sustaining Mental Toughness

https://www.amazon.com/Fortitude-Essential-Building-Sustaining-Toughness/dp/0692925767/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=kate+allgood&sr=8-3

In this engaging episode, Douglas James, a marketing and entrepreneur coach, shares his journey from a troubled upbringing in New Orleans to finding purpose and success after serving in the Navy. Douglas opens up about his childhood escape through art and the challenges he faced growing up in a dysfunctional home. Despite struggling academically and being influenced by his father's negative behavior, Douglas discovered discipline and leadership in ROTC during high school. After graduating, he found himself bartending and enjoying the party lifestyle but realized it wasn't aligned with the life he wanted. Encouraged by his family, he made the life-changing decision to join the Navy.

Douglas explains how he stumbled upon online marketing while in the Navy and began earning more through a side hustle than his military pay. He shares a story of a Master Chief who approached him, seeking guidance on making money outside the military. This encounter sparked his transition into coaching and teaching others.

For military veterans and first responders listening, this episode offers a relatable and motivational narrative. Douglas' journey highlights the power of finding a new path, leveraging skills, and embracing entrepreneurship after military service. His story resonates with individuals seeking personal and financial growth beyond their current professions. Douglas shares his story of resilience, reinvention, and ultimately finding purpose in helping others achieve success.

 

DIRECT LINK FOR PODCAST EPISODE 91:

https://transitiondrillpodcast.libsyn.com/

 

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CONNECT WITH DOUGLAS

https://thedouglasjames.net/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/douglas-james-1a93b8110/

https://www.instagram.com/the_douglasjames/

Rich “Bojo” Bojorquez grew up in a section of Los Angeles heavily controlled by gangs. Growing up he had to fight more to stay out of the gangs, but an unlikely assist from a prominent local gang member was a turning point for him. Always interested in the military, after graduating from high school he enlisted in the Navy. He served four years as a Damage Controlmen (fire fighter). His plan was the military to be his career, but a chance encounter with a friend from high school who recently became a deputy sheriff changed his path. After the end of his enlistment he joined the L.A. Sheriff’s Department in 1990. Today he’s a Sergeant. After many years being assigned to gang enforcement and narcotics teams, today he is the supervisor of the Mental Evaluation Teams (MET) as the Veteran Liaison Officer, in collaboration with the Mayors Challenge for Suicide Prevention. Bojo is a tireless advocate for veterans struggling with mental health issues. His team is also part of the peer support unit for members within the sheriff’s department. Additionally, during his off-duty time, Bojo volunteers with foster children in a sailing program where they learn boating safety and build their own small sailboats. 

 

DIRECT LINK FOR PODCAST EPISODE 90: 

https://transitiondrillpodcast.libsyn.com/

 

PODCAST - LISTEN, WATCH, AND SUBSCRIBE

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CONNECT WITH BOJO

[email protected]