In this episode of Transition Tales, a LIVE with Courage Podcast, Jose shares his transition from the Army to a path of discovery.

We discussed:
00:18 Welcome
00:40 Jose introduces himself
01:09 Joined the Army as infantryman and continued on as a Ranger
01:47 later transitioned into the regular Army
02:07 Served two years with the old guard
02:20 Retired at 20 years
02:38 Jose shares how his military transition transpired
03:34 Explains a bit about the med board process for retiree eligible
05:43 We think we are ready….maybe not…
06:20 Not feeling ready because it was not a personal decision
06:47 Service members have a hard time identifying if they’ve done enough
07:29 Jose realized after reflection that he did his part to prepare the next generation
08:30 Shares a bit about his MMA experience
08:51 and a bit about his other experiences post service
10:22 Jose shares how he feels about having to find a new career or purpose
11:01 He also tells us about his physical challenges and acceptance of
11:44 Acceptance of “it” not being his place to be in the military anymore
12:43 Advises junior enlisted to not give up on the Army so quickly
13:09 and take advantage of the benefits while you are in the military
14:02 have a plan in place before you transition out of the military
16:44 switch career fields to something transferable prior to separation
17:44 Jose acknowledges that retirees have more financial security than others
19:21 Final words: don’t give up and grind

Guest Bio:
Jose Barreiro is a retired Army Sergeant Major and former Army Ranger and MMA fighter. Since transition, Jose has explored other paths like marksmanship and gun safety trainer, tactical advising, spotlight bartending, and modeling.

Recording date: August 31, 2021