Military Retirement Podcast

John and Vic are joined by Omar Portilla, a Marine Corps veteran, filmmaker, and author of the poetry collection Dust Settles. Omar shares his raw and honest journey of navigating the "wide open ocean" of transition, from being recalled for multiple deployments to finding his footing in the New York arts scene.

We discuss the "Minimalist Phone" habit, the importance of trying multiple jobs to find your "Gold," and how creative writing became a critical tool in Omar’s journey with PTSD.

Key Topics and Timestamps:

[01:25] The "Dumb Phone" Experiment: Vic discusses moving toward a "minimalist phone launcher" to reclaim time and focus from social media [02:20].

[05:57] Operation Headshot: A shoutout to the photography nonprofit helping veterans and spouses build skills and network through the camera [07:43].

[15:22] The Japan Experience: Omar recalls the "culture shock" of being stationed in Japan as a young Marine and the life-altering games played in the barracks [17:30].

[24:31] The Recall Reality: The intense story of being recalled to active service just as civilian life was starting to take hold [25:04].

[34:52] Returning to Your Hometown: Why the "grass isn't always greener" back home and the challenge of realizing the people you left behind have moved on [36:16].

[41:02] Breaking Into Film: How Omar transitioned from acting in front of the camera to producing and directing behind the scenes [43:41].

[51:25] The Power of Trying Everything: Why veterans should "taste" multiple jobs—from bartending to tech—to find what truly fulfills them [53:19].

[58:28] Writing Through Trauma: Omar explains how his book, Dust Settles, was born out of his VA counseling for PTSD and why "speaking the secrets" removes their power [01:01:51].

[01:12:51] Accountability and Mentors: Remembering the late Gunner McGriff and the impact of strong leadership on a young Marine's life [01:12:24].

[01:14:29] The GI Film Festival: A look at the upcoming festival and the importance of supporting veteran creative projects [01:16:04].

Resources Mentioned:

Book: Dust Settles by Omar Portilla (Available on Amazon).

App: Minimal Phone Launcher for digital minimalism.

Nonprofit: Operation Headshot (Photography for Veterans).

Military Retirement Group (Facebook): Join 2,700+ veterans for peer-to-peer support.

#Military #Veteran #MarineCorps #MilitaryToCivilian #VeteransHelpingVeterans #MilitaryTransition #Peruvian #PTSD #Author

John and Vic are joined by Josh Cantrell, founder of MVMT Financial and a retired Army Master Sergeant. We break down the "alphabet soup" of veteran benefits, from the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) to the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP).

Josh shares his personal journey of taking a deferred resignation (DRP) from federal service to launch his own firm, offering a masterclass on financial readiness and why "waiting for the VA" isn't a strategy. Plus, we discuss how veterans can access free Masterclass subscriptions and the potential for free tuition at Harvard.

Key Topics and Timestamps:

[02:36] The VR&E Reality Check: Vic’s update on the 8-month wait for orientation and the importance of showing up for your appointment.

[04:39] Free Harvard Tuition? Discussing the $200k income cap for full-ride scholarships at Ivy League schools.

[10:58] The DRP/Federal Audit: Josh explains why he saw the "writing on the wall" with current federal budget cuts and chose entrepreneurship.

[31:03] The Dave Ramsey Strategy for Vets: Why clearing debt is the single most important mission before you hang up the uniform.

[33:37] The Million Dollar Pension: Why a 20-year military retirement is actually worth millions in the civilian market [34:06].

[56:38] SBP: Pros and Cons: A deep dive into the Survivor Benefit Plan—is 6.5% of your pay worth the 55% payout? [01:00:06].

[01:07:12] VGLI vs. Private Insurance: Why VGLI premiums skyrocket as you age and the value of locking in a private policy while still on active duty [01:09:21].

[01:17:37] TSP Strategies: Should you stay in the C and S funds or move to the G fund during market turmoil? [01:19:03].

[01:35:18] Free Masterclass for Veterans: How to use the Blue Star Neighborhood partnership to get world-class training for free [01:36:16].

Resources Mentioned:

MVMT Financial: https://mvmtfinancial.com/

Blue Star Families: For free Masterclass access [01:39:34].

The Military Retirement Group (Facebook): Join 2,600+ veterans for transition support.

#Veteran #Military #SBP #VGLI #DRP #FederalEmployee #SideHustle #Startup #VeteranHelp #MilitaryRetirement #MilitaryTransition

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John and Vic are joined by career counselor Leora Opstelten for a deep dive into the "boots-on-the-ground" reality of finding a civilian career. We discuss the culture shift between active duty and corporate environments, how to translate "military jargon" into "civilian English," and the power of the informational interview.

Whether you are navigating the current federal hiring landscape or looking to pivot into a new industry, Leora provides the roadmap to ensure your resume—and your confidence—are ready for the mission.

Key Topics and Timestamps:

[03:30] Federal Workforce Updates: Navigating probationary status, job security anxiety, and the "ping-pong" effect of current federal hiring policies.

[09:40] Networking in Uncertain Times: Why pressing the flesh at job fairs and establishing a LinkedIn presence is more critical now than ever before.

[11:16] Nonprofit Spotlight: Support the Enlisted Project (STEP) and their mission to help young military families in high-cost areas [11:42].

[17:07] The Culture Shift: Leora explains the night-and-day difference between military "mission-first" thinking and civilian workplace dynamics.

[21:46] The Art of Problem Solving: How to take combat-ready skills (like split-second decision-making) and show their value in a corporate context.

[25:02] The Two-Way Interview: Flipping the script—why you should be interviewing the company just as much as they are interviewing you [27:10].

[31:01] Informational Interviews: The "hidden" networking tool. How to reach out on LinkedIn to learn about a field before you apply [32:17].

[35:45] The "No Asshole" Policy: A real-world look at corporate culture and why being a "culture fit" is often more important than your technical certifications [36:21].

[44:40] Resume Masterclass: Why your civilian resume should be one page, how to cut the jargon, and why "fit-reps" don't translate to hiring managers [45:42].

[01:18:22] Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Dealing with the "terrified" feeling of civilian interviews and realizing that if you're in the room, you’re qualified.

[01:33:05] Join the Newsletter: Get the "BLUF" (Bottom Line Up Front) updates at thegreenlogbook.com or militaryretirementpodcast.com.
#MilitaryToCivilian #Veterans #CivilianJobs #federaljobs #MilitaryRetirement #VeteranSupport

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John and Vic are joined by Chris Lancia, Chief of Staff for Tennessee's Department of General Services and a retired Army Public Affairs Officer. Chris shares his unique journey from crew chief to journalist to senior state leader, providing a masterclass in networking and finding a "new mission" after military service.We dive deep into the first-of-its-kind Tennessee Governor’s Veteran Fellowship Program, the value of trade skills, and why the "grass isn't always greener" without a solid plan.Key Topics and Timestamps:[03:04] Veterans Education & Career Resources: Highlighting the VECT training center in Georgia and Operation Stand Down Tennessee for resume workshops and networking [05:14].[07:36] The Power of the Handshake: Why 70% of jobs come from relationships and how "getting out of your shell" at job fairs can lead to unexpected offers [08:05].[15:37] The Tennessee Governor’s Veteran Fellowship: A detailed breakdown of this unique 12-month paid program that allows veterans to explore different state agencies before hiring [19:00].[29:42] Networking Outside the Box: Why volunteering for youth sports or community organizations is the best way to build a non-military network [31:05].[33:46] The Value of Vulnerability: Chris explains why admitting "I don't know" is a critical first step in learning the language of Corporate America [34:24].[44:48] Resilience & Positive Psychology: How "hunting the good stuff" and maintaining a growth mindset turns transition speed bumps into opportunities [46:26].[56:06] The "Grass Isn't Always Greener": Chris shares his personal lesson of leaving and returning to the military, highlighting the true cost of healthcare and civilian benefits [59:52].[01:13:24] White Collar vs. Blue Collar: Why high-paying trade jobs (HVAC, plumbing, logistics) are often a more fulfilling and lucrative fit for veterans than the "cubicle farm" [01:23:28].[01:31:52] The Command Team Challenge: How to navigate the friction between completing your military mission and preparing for your transition eight months out [01:30:53].Resources Mentioned:VECT (Georgia): Training and certification for veterans.Operation Stand Down Tennessee: Veteran support and Career Recon program.Commit Foundation: Personalized transition coaching.

In this high-impact episode, John and Vic welcome Mark Casper, President and CEO of Tech For Troops. This incredible nonprofit is on a mission to bridge the digital divide for veterans and their families by providing free hardware, guaranteed data destruction, and thousands of professional training courses.

If you are a veteran looking to break into the tech industry—or if you simply need the tools to navigate the modern job market—this is an essential watch.

Key Topics and Timestamps:

[03:45] The "Five Bullets" Update: John and Vic discuss the new federal requirement for employees to submit weekly achievement bullets.

[06:23] O*NET for Career Research: How to use the O*NET "Bright Outlook" tool to find high-growth careers that match your skills.

[10:45] Introducing Tech For Troops: Mark Casper details the four core pillars of the organization: Data Destruction, Suicide Prevention (GameCore), Workforce Development, and E-Waste Recycling.

[13:35] 5,000 Free Classes for Veterans: Learn how to access a massive library of online courses covering everything from Microsoft Office and Python to leadership and mindfulness.

[19:34] Bridging the Digital Divide: Mark explains how Tech For Troops put over 1,200 computers into the hands of veterans and active-duty families last year.

[22:31] The "Dishonorable Discharge" Conversation: Mark’s unique approach to helping veterans with less-than-honorable discharges by listening to their stories and providing a path forward.

[30:16] Tech 200 Giveaways: Highlighting the massive laptop giveaway events that provide entire families with the tools they need for school and work.

[41:02] The Reality of Cyber Security Careers: Mark gives a reality check on the "10 years of experience" requirement and how to work your way into the field through project management or risk roles.

[01:05:40] The Power of Volunteering: Vic and John discuss how humble volunteering (even "making coffee" in the room you want to be in) can lead to high-level networking and career pivots.

Resources Mentioned:

Tech For Troops Official Website: https://techfortroops.org/

O*NET Online: Research career outlooks and skills.

Dennis Spohn (VeteranAI.co : AI-powered resume building for veterans.

Military Retirement Group on Facebook: Join our community for transition support.
#Veterans #VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #MilitaryToCivilian