Exit Buddy: Veteran Stories to Guide You

Join us as we get to know Army veteran, former JAG officer, civil affairs officer, and political thriller author Francine Ehrenberg. Francine shares how a random brochure in a law firm desk drawer rerouted her from a bored real estate attorney to Army JAG. She opens up about the shock of coming home to “too much” comfort after living on MREs and unexploded ordnance, why she keeps serving through American Legion and Boys State, and how decades in criminal law and military justice fueled her second act as a novelist. Her story is a reminder that your path doesn’t have to be linear, humor is a survival skill, and you’re never as alone in transition as you may feel.Chapters01:19 – Introducing an Army JAG, Civil Affairs Officer, and Author02:16 – The Desk Drawer Brochure That Changed Everything05:05 – From Active Duty JAG to Civilian Prosecutor and Army Reservist06:35 – Humanitarian Missions in Albania09:18 – Reverse Culture Shock: Coming Home Overwhelmed11:22 – Serving After Service with American Legion and Boys State15:00 – A New Mission: From Courtroom to Creative Writing19:19 – Transition Advice: You’re Not Alone, Reach Out, Stay OpenKey TakeawaysOne Brochure Can Change Everything: Francine didn’t grow up around the military and was bored stiff in real estate law—until she opened a drawer, found an Army JAG Corps brochure, and discovered a path that matched her desire for meaningful, high‑stakes work. Be open to opportunities that don’t look “planned.”Reverse Culture Shock Is Real: Coming home after deployment from harsh conditions to a comfortable bed, full grocery stores, and constant connectivity can feel overwhelming and even guilt‑inducing. If your transition feels “off” or “too much,” you’re not broken—you’re recalibrating.Service Doesn’t Stop at ETS or Retirement: Through the American Legion and the Boys State program, Francine continues to mentor rising high‑school seniors, teach criminal justice, and expose them to public service and the legal system. There are countless ways to keep serving and stay connected after you take off the uniform.Your Skills Translate More Than You Think: Years of JAG, prosecution, and financial crimes work translated into rich storylines for political thrillers filled with courtroom scenes, money laundering, and high‑stakes investigations. Your experiences (good, bad, and bizarre) can fuel a powerful second act.Humor Is a Survival Tool, Not a Cop‑Out: Francine’s mantra—“you can either laugh or you can cry”—isn’t about minimizing hardship; it’s about staying human in the middle of it and giving yourself space to move forward.Follow us for more real veteran stories to guide your transition, and share this episode with someone who feels overwhelmed by coming home. They may just need to hear they’re not alone and it’s okay to laugh through the hard parts.Subscribe to our LinkedIn newsletter, Exit Buddy: Veteran Voices, to stay updated and connect with other listeners and guests.Send us Fan MailVisit us at https://exitbuddy.buzzsprout.com to learn more about the show.Have feedback or questions for us? Email us at [email protected].

In this episode, we sit down with Marine Corps veteran Ferguson “Juice” Dale, who went from chasing a football scholarship to flying aircraft, then founding Semper Sky, a company focused on emergency management and airborne disaster response. Juice shares how losing his shot at college football, a life‑altering car accident, and a tough lesson in integrity pushed him toward the Marines—and how a simple challenge to “do one more” pull‑up reshaped his mindset for good. He breaks down what it really means to rebuild structure as a civilian, why SkillBridge was his “goldfish in a bag” moment, and how mentorship, reservists, and AI are helping him scale a mission‑driven business. His story is a blueprint for veterans who feel unmoored after service and need practical ways to design their own systems, protect their value, and carry that mission focus into a new kind of fight.Chapters02:07 – Chasing a Football Scholarship & the Cost of One Bad Decision03:35 – The Car Accident and Losing the Team05:10 – “You Don’t Have Integrity”: A Hard Lesson at 1806:20 – The Recruiter, Pull‑Ups, and “Do One More”08:54 – From Enlisted to Officer: Different Roles, Different Expectations10:10 – Marines Give You Structure, Civilian Life Makes You Build It11:15 – The Goldfish in a New Tank: SkillBridge as a Gentle Transition12:27 – Starting Semper Sky and the Power of a Mentor14:45 – Three Lessons for Entrepreneurs: Fire Yourself, Use Your Network, Leverage AI17:48 – Know Your Value and Stop Underselling YourselfKey Takeaways“Do One More” Is a Mindset, Not Just a Pull‑Up Count: A recruiter’s challenge (“You know why you can’t be a Marine? Because you never tried to do one more.”) became a lifelong mental model. For transition, that “one more” might be one more application, one more conversation, or one more uncomfortable step toward a new career. The Military Gives You Structure—Civilians Have to Build It: In uniform, structure is handed to you: training schedules, evaluations, missions. On the outside, freedom without structure can end up being chaos. Civilian success means designing your own systems so that important things still get done without someone else’s orders.SkillBridge Can Be Your “Goldfish in a Bag”: Juice compares his SkillBridge internship to gently lowering a goldfish (in its old water) into a new tank. Supporting the Marine Corps from the private sector gave him time to acclimate to new expectations, culture, and pace before fully jumping into civilian life.Fire Yourself from the Wrong Jobs: As a founder, Juice learned that trying to do everything made him the bottleneck. The real job is identifying where only you add value, and “firing yourself” from everything else so the team can move faster and do better work.Know Your Value and Don’t Undersell It: Many veterans have a heart of service and are vulnerable to being underpaid or under‑titled. Recognize your worth, negotiate for fair pay and benefits, and walk away from organizations that don’t see your value.Follow us for more real veteran stories to guide your transition, and share this episode with someone who’s struggling to build structure after service—they might just need a new way to think about their “goldfish in a new tank” moment.Subscribe to our LinkedIn newsletter, Exit Buddy: Veteran VoiSend us Fan MailVisit us at https://exitbuddy.buzzsprout.com to learn more about the show.Have feedback or questions for us? Email us at [email protected].

In this episode, Kathleen and Rachel chat with Air Force veteran Jacki Davenport, a 20+ year intelligence and special operations professional who refused to take no for an answer from the very beginning. Jacki shares her journey from recruiter office moments to tight-knit special missions units, cyber operations, and eventually, the private sector. Along the way, she gets honest about the cost of high-tempo deployments, the identity whiplash of going reservist, and the power of a network that believes “we can all win.” Her story is a reminder not to self-select out, and to use your non-negotiables to steer your next chapter instead of settling for whatever comes first.Chapters02:18 – Jacki’s Path to the Military 04:05 – Saying Yes to the Unknown09:14 – Humanity Catching Up & Choosing the Reserve Path10:35 – Redefining Identity and Impact11:40 – Standing Up an Offensive Cyber Unit13:25 – From Intel Targeting Officer to Chief & Mama Bear15:01 – “We Can All Win”: How Jacki’s Network Carried Her Transition16:33 – Starting at the Bottom Again: New Acronyms, New Language, Same Grit19:35 – Building Intelligent Systems in the Private Sector22:24 – Don’t Self‑Select Out & Know Your Non‑Negotiables23:40 – It’s Okay to Ask for Help: Using Your Network Without ShameKey TakeawaysPrepare for Identity Whiplash: Going from a fast‑paced, small special mission unit to the reserves was Jacki’s first real separation struggle. Recognizing and naming identity shifts early can help you avoid making rushed decisions to return to what’s comfortable.Don’t Self‑Select Out of Opportunities: If you can say yes, say yes. You can always course-correct later, but you can’t win if you never step up to the plate.Your Network Really Can Be the Difference: The right people can open doors you didn’t even know existed when it’s time to transition. Jacki reminds us: you are not burdening your network by asking for help; you are finally using it for what it was built for.Let Your Non‑Negotiables Guide Your Next Role: Go into your civilian job search (and interviews) clear on what you will and won’t accept. Those guardrails will help you quickly rule out misaligned roles.Be Humble Enough to Start at the Bottom Again: By the time Jacki retired, she was at the top of the food chain in uniform—but in the private sector, she had to be the person writing down acronyms and Googling them after meetings. Her advice: accept that your rank and past titles don’t automatically transfer. What does transfer is how you bring value, learn fast, ask questions, and build credibility all over again.Impact Can Shift from Mission to People—and That’s Okay: In uniform, impact meant operational results and mission success. As a chief and later in industry, Jacki’s impact became about developing people, protecting her team’s mental health, and reducing human cost through better systems. Accepting that your definition of service can evolve is key to feeling fulfilled after the military.Follow us for more real veteran stories to guide your transition, and share this episode with someone who feels stuck between who they were in uniform and who they’re allowed to be next.Subscribe to our LinkedIn newsletter, Exit Buddy: Veteran Voices, to stay updated.Send us Fan MailVisit us at https://exitbuddy.buzzsprout.com to learn more about the show.Have feedback or questions for us? Email us at [email protected].

In this episode of Exit Buddy: Veteran Stories to Guide You, Kathleen and Rachel sit down with Army veteran and West Point grad Bryson Bort, who went from feeling “complete ignorance and sheer terror” in terms of military transition, to successfully building multiple cybersecurity companies and a nonprofit. From a global commodity manager who didn’t know what an RFP was, to an IT asset manager, to the creator of a global CMDB that actually worked, to offensive cyber in the intelligence community, Bryson shows how curiosity and tying your work to dollar value can open doors you never knew existed. He also delivers some tough‑love truths: why you need to stop sacrificing yourself for the mission in profit‑driven environments, what risk in entrepreneurship really looks like, and how networking and reputation can turn even your missteps into momentum.Chapters02:09 – Meet Bryson: Choosing West Point Over MIT04:50 – Medically Discharged & First Civilian Interviews06:30 – “What’s an RFP?” Alone, Unqualified, and Learning Fast09:06 – Back to Tech as IT Asset Manager & CMDB Builder10:30 – Cracking the Corporate Code with the CFO11:57 – State, DIA, Special Forces & Googling “What’s a CTO?”13:40 – Building an Offensive Cyber Unit at the Tip of the Spear14:55 – Tough-Love Truth: Stop Sacrificing Yourself for the Mission15:31 – From Napkin Sketch to Launching GRIMM17:59 – Rethinking Risk & Failure in Entrepreneurship20:57 – Co‑Founding ICS Village & Giving Back to the Community22:08 – Network, Ask Questions & Fix Your ResumeKey TakeawaysTie Your Work to Dollars: In corporate environments, showing financial impact keeps projects alive through leadership changes and budget cuts. Bryson’s global CMDB didn’t simply survive because it was technically elegant; it survived because he could show hard dollar savings to the CFO.Stop Sacrificing Yourself for the Mission: Bryson’s wake-up call to veterans in the civilian, profit‑driven world is, if you’re yoked to the mission at the expense of your health and family, someone else is profiting from your sacrifice. You are allowed to set boundaries.Entrepreneurial Risk Is Often Lower Than You Think: For professionals with strong reputations, starting a consultancy is usually a measured risk. Worst case? You build a bigger network, deepen your expertise, and become more valuable when you step back into a traditional role.Network Your Way into Clarity: If you don’t know what civilian job fits your MOS—or if you even want that path—conversations are your intel‑gathering. Each coffee chat narrows the options, sharpens your resume, and reveals opportunities that never get posted.You Already Know How to Figure Things Out: From West Point to Signal Corps to offensive cyber, Bryson kept succeeding in jobs he didn’t initially understand by doing what veterans do best: figuring it out under pressure, seeking guidance, and taking ownership.Follow us for more real veteran stories to guide your transition, and share this episode with someone who feels afraid of what lies ahead. They may just need a new mission and permission to bet on themselves.Subscribe to our LinkedIn newsletter, Exit Buddy: Veteran Voices, to stay updated and connect with other listeners and guests.Send us Fan MailVisit us at https://exitbuddy.buzzsprout.com to learn more about the show.Have feedback or questions for us? Email us at [email protected].

In this episode of Exit Buddy: Veteran Stories to Guide You, Kathleen sits down with Army veteran and former 82nd Airborne paratrooper Patience Ulsted, who went from ballet shoes to jump boots to holistic health entrepreneur. Patience shares how chronic pain, daily migraines, and living at “10 out of 10” readiness pushed her to explore yoga, massage, chiropractic care, Reiki, acupuncture, and Ayurveda—and how those tools helped her reset her nervous system without losing her edge. Her story is a powerful reminder that you’ve already done the hard thing, you deserve your VA benefits, and part of transition is learning how to shift from combat ready to calm within.Chapters01:23 – From Restaurant Grind to “I’m Joining the Army”03:16 – “You Can’t Go Airborne, You’re a Chick”06:06 – Transition Injuries: Feeling 27 Going on 7006:50 – The Yoga Class That Ended the Migraines08:53 – Massage, Chiropractic, Reiki, Acupuncture & Ayurveda11:57 – From Underpaid Spa Work to Entrepreneurship14:00 – “I Can Do Anything”: What Airborne Service Taught Her16:30 – Learning to Ask for Help & Be Coachable19:10 – Always at a 10: Military vs. Civilian Nervous Systems23:47 – Get Your VA Benefits & Don’t Live at 10 Forever Key TakeawaysYou’ve Already Done the Hard Thing: Use your service—especially high‑demand roles like Airborne—as proof you can handle big transitions and entrepreneurship.Holistic Health Is Nervous System Work, Not Woo‑Woo: Yoga and other modalities helped Patience move from constant hypervigilance to a healthier baseline while keeping the ability to “flip the switch” when needed.Ask for Help and Be Coachable: Getting coaching and stepping outside her comfort zone helped Patience double her business and expand her impact.Document Injuries & Use Your VA Benefits: You earned them—beyond medical care, there are career and entrepreneurship resources many veterans never tap into.Don’t Stay at 10 Out of 10 Forever: Living on adrenaline will eventually catch up with you. Learning to access “2 out of 10” is key for long‑term health and relationships.Follow us for more real veteran stories to guide your transition, and share this episode with someone who’s still living at a 10—they may just need permission to finally reset.Subscribe to our LinkedIn newsletter, Exit Buddy: Veteran Voices, to stay updated and connect with other listeners and guests.#VeteranStories #MilitaryTransition #ExitBuddySend us Fan MailVisit us at https://exitbuddy.buzzsprout.com to learn more about the show.Have feedback or questions for us? Email us at [email protected].

In this episode of Exit Buddy: Veteran Stories to Guide You, Kathleen and Rachel sit down with Laura Hatcher, a veteran who served as a Navy Diver and intelligence officer before pivoting to professional photography. She opens up about the fear of not having a 5-10-15 year plan, and courageously turning her side-hustle photography passion into a full-time business—complete with walking into a stranger’s studio to ask for mentorship. Laura’s story is a reminder that transition often means reintroducing yourself to yourself, getting out of your own way, and drawing on your military arsenal of discipline and adaptability to build something new.Chapters01:50 – Navy Family Roots & Becoming a Diver05:32  – Transition Fears & Redefining Yourself10:56 – Getting Out of Your Own Way & Early Retirement Insights13:28 – Pursuing Photography: From Boredom to Full-Time Business15:25 – Finding a Mentor17:20 – Military Skills as Entrepreneurship Foundation19:01 – Laura’s Five Transition TakeawaysKey TakeawaysSelf-Reflection Isn’t Issued in Your Sea Bag: Transition starts with reintroducing yourself to yourself. Figure out what you’re truly passionate about—it may take a year or two after leaving service to clarify.Get Out of Your Own Way: Laura realized fear of the unknown and self-doubt were bigger barriers than any external obstacle. Especially for women, stop waiting until you meet 100% of the job or role description. Apply, experiment, and allow yourself to grow into opportunities rather than counting yourself out.Seek Mentors & Accountability Buddies: Laura walked into a stranger’s studio to ask for a mentor and eventually took over that studio space. Surround yourself with people who will challenge and support you, not just echo you.Leverage Your Military Arsenal: Discipline, strategic thinking, leadership under pressure, and sink-or-swim adaptability are transferable superpowers. When challenges arise in business or life, reflect on similar situations you’ve already mastered.Never Stop Learning & Stay Uncomfortable: Comfort is the enemy of growth. Keep taking classes, seeking feedback, and pushing into new skills—even when math or the unknown feels overwhelming. The military taught you not to quit.Follow us for more real veteran stories to guide your transition, and share this episode with a service member staring at the unknown—remind them they already have the tools to build what’s next.Subscribe to our LinkedIn newsletter, Exit Buddy: Veteran Voices, to stay updated and connect with other listeners and guests.Until next time, keep reintroducing yourself—your Exit Buddy is right here with you.#VeteranStories #MilitaryTransition #ExitBuddySend us Fan MailVisit us at https://exitbuddy.buzzsprout.com to learn more about the show.Have feedback or questions for us? Email us at [email protected].

In this episode of Exit Buddy: Veteran Stories to Guide You, Kathleen chats with Joe Hogge, an Army combat engineer who turned a love of Bavarian beer into a Texas Hill Country brewery named after his old MOS. He shares memories of his first-year transition, the hidden trauma from years of explosives training, and the decision to start the Fireside Chat Support Network—sparked by a local veteran's suicide. Joe’s story reminds us that finding (or creating) your family is key to thriving post-service.Chapters02:25 – Military Roots & German Beer Awakening06:13 – Family as a Lifeline & Fighting Hidden Trauma11:02 – Choosing Between the GI Bill and a Job Offer14:39 – Home-Building Crash to Wedding Venue Pivot16:22 – The Birth of Fireside Chat Support Network22:15 – Final Advice on Finding Your FamilyKey TakeawaysSupport Is Essential for Transition: Joe’s wife and in-laws became his first civilian unit. Having support is key to navigating life after losing your military family. Family can be built, not just born, so actively seek it out to avoid isolation.Hidden Trauma Adds Up—Even Without "Big" Combat: Years of routine explosives training can leave lasting effects. Recognize it, talk about it, and lean on support—it's not always obvious until someone points it out.Military Communication Doesn't Always Translate: The direct, profane style that works in the military can end careers in the civilian world. Adapt your language to avoid HR issues around the water cooler.Step Out & Find Your Tribe: Whatever your interest, get online, attend meetups, and show up. You might find friends, partners, or purpose—don't stay home alone.Follow us for more real veteran stories to guide your transition, and share this episode with a service member who needs a reminder to find their post-service community.Subscribe to our LinkedIn newsletter, Exit Buddy: Veteran Voices, to stay updated and connect with other listeners and guests.Until next time, keep connecting—your Exit Buddy is right here with you.#VeteranStories #MilitaryTransition #ExitBuddySend us Fan MailVisit us at https://exitbuddy.buzzsprout.com to learn more about the show.Have feedback or questions for us? Email us at [email protected].

In this episode of Exit Buddy: Veteran Stories to Guide You, Kathleen flies solo to sit down with an Army Reservist whose career reads like a masterclass in relentless effort and reinvention. From active-duty tanker and All-Army wrestler to Iraq deployment as an embedded advisor, drill sergeant, roofing/construction business owner, and now equity partner at a law firm, Anthony "Tony" Kuhn shares the twists, setbacks, and hard-won lessons that shaped his path. Hear how a near-miss with the Buffalo Police Department became the spark for law school, why he still credits military work ethic as his biggest edge, and what he’s looking forward to most as retirement nears. This story is packed with practical wisdom for anyone facing transition: do the work, push your comfort zone, and never stop moving forward.Chapters01:52 – Tony’s Early Active Duty Days03:31 – First Civilian Pivot: Roofing, Re-Enlisting as a Drill Sergeant05:25 – The Windy Road: Construction, Iraq Deployment, Starting His Own Company05:59 – Embedded Advisor in Iraq, Family Impact, Police Dream Derailed, Pivot to Law11:23 – Top Tip: Be the Hardest-Working Person in the Room12:47 – Military Experiences That Prepared Tony for Law14:49 – Inner Tools: Time Never Stops, Push Your Comfort Zone17:14 – Retirement on the Horizon: Reclaiming Family Time After Years of SacrificeKey TakeawaysLean Into Your Military Work Ethic: The single most universal advantage veterans bring to any civilian role is a rock-solid work ethic. Show up ready to outwork the room, and doors will open—whether you start your own business or join an established one.Push Your Comfort Zone Relentlessly: Growth happens outside what feels safe. From wrestling injuries to writing SOPs in Iraq, to launching a veterans law practicum, stepping into discomfort led to extraordinary rewards for Tony.Time Never Stops—Neither Should You: When adversity hits, remember the clock keeps ticking. Hang on one more second, one more minute—perseverance compounds.Military Skills Translate Farther Than You Think: Leadership under pressure, teaching troops, managing teams in chaos, and self-taught business development all became tools for success in law and beyond for Tony. Don’t sell your experience short.Follow us for more real veteran stories to guide your transition, and share this episode with a service member who needs a reminder that relentless effort pays off. Until next time, keep pushing—your Exit Buddy is right here with you.#VeteranStories #MilitaryTransition #ExitBuddyResources & LinksSubscribe to our LinkedIn newsletter, Exit Buddy: Veteran Voices, to stay updated and connect with other listeners and guests.Check out Tony's previous appearance on Security Cleared Jobs: Who’s Hiring & How to hear his legal advice for security-cleared military personnel.Send us Fan MailVisit us at https://exitbuddy.buzzsprout.com to learn more about the show.Have feedback or questions for us? Email us at [email protected].

Welcome to this special edition of Exit Buddy: Veteran Stories to Guide You. As we gear up for our second season (airing January 26, 2026), we’re excited to share a “producer pick” featuring one of our first and favorite episodes.If you missed it the first time around, buckle up and enjoy learning from Navy veteran Shanon Raab. You can view the show notes and transcript from the original airing of this episode here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2535619/episodes/17838415Follow us for more veteran stories to guide your transition journey in season two, and text this episode to a fellow service member who’s navigating their exit.Send us Fan MailVisit us at https://exitbuddy.buzzsprout.com to learn more about the show.Have feedback or questions for us? Email us at [email protected].

It’s the Season 1 finale! Kathleen and Rachel sit down to reflect on the incredible veterans who joined us on Exit Buddy: Veteran Stories to Guide You. From pilots to cyber warriors and nonprofit founders, each guest left us with hard-won wisdom on mindset, identity, resilience, networking, purpose, and navigating military transition. This episode is the ultimate recap: the biggest “aha” moments and the practical takeaways you can steal for your own transition. Whether you’ve been here since day one or you’re just finding us, this is your Season 1 cheat sheet to help you navigate life after military service.Chapters00:36 – Start planning early and take advantage of transition programs01:13 – Build your safety net before you leap02:08 – Prepare emotionally for the identity shift03:13 – Start soul-searching early — don't wait for transition to happen to you04:32 – Pause and rediscover your identity before jumping into the next chapter05:16 – Your path may change — adapt with resilience06:18 – You can pivot more than once7:13 – Embrace your mistakes as lessons07:59 – Protect your foundation: VA benefits & mental health09:11 – Jobs are replaceable, but family experiences are not09:55 – Ask for help early and often11:27 – Mentorship takes many forms12:23 – Find/build your tribe13:29 – Translate your leadership experience into civilian terms14:12 – Passion plus preparation creates opportunity16:30 – Build your skills, grow your network, and take your shotThank you to our honorary Exit Buddies who trusted us with their stories this season — you made Season 1 unforgettable.Thank you to YOU, our listeners, for walking this road with us, sharing episodes, and building this community.We’ll be back with Season 2 for more stories and transition truths to guide the way. See you on the other side!Send us Fan MailVisit us at https://exitbuddy.buzzsprout.com to learn more about the show.Have feedback or questions for us? Email us at [email protected].

In this episode of Exit Buddy: Veteran Stories to Guide You, we meet Stephanie West, a Navy veteran who charted a course from the supply lines of the military to the heart of Starbucks operations. She discusses joining the Navy at 17 through the Buddy Program, how she turned night classes into degrees (all the way to an MBA), how her passion for Starbucks’ business model became her civilian north star, and why she’s still thriving there a decade later. Stephanie shares candid stories and tips for navigating culture shock, imposter syndrome, and networking. Whether you’re looking for proof that military logistics translates directly to corporate America or simply need a dose of “yes, it can work out,” Stephanie’s story inspires.Chapters01:13 - Joining the Navy at 17 With a Buddy02:40 - Stephanie’s Pursuit of Education05:15 - Falling in Love with Starbucks While Stationed in Italy06:55 - Stephanie’s Starbucks Role: Keeping 10,000+ Stores Brewing08:32 - Culture Shocks: Language, Insurance & Leadership Style11:00 - Why She Stayed 10 Years (and How You Can Too)14:53 - Giving Back with Compass USA18:42 - Stephanie’s Simple Secret: Networking Is Just Talking22:07 - Final Advice: Stay Open-Minded & Give It a Real ChanceKey TakeawaysMilitary Logistics = Corporate Gold: Supply Corps skills like Stephanie’s experience with parts, budgets, and feeding the troops translate well to the civilian world. Don’t underestimate how your skills can be leveraged post-service.Give Yourself Time to Assimilate: Imposter syndrome is real, but rushing out of a new job in the first year robs you of the chance to grow into the role. Seek out veteran networks, resource groups, or buddy systems in your workplace to ease the transition.Networking Doesn’t Have to Be Scary: Networking is as simple as a conversation. Start with your family, your old shipmates, or the person next to you at an event. “It’s really not scary—it’s just talking,” encourages Stephanie.Give as You Go: Volunteering and mentoring aren’t just ways to serve—they also help you build new purpose and connections as you carve out your next chapter.Stay Flexible: Your first civilian role may look different from what you expect. Keep an open mind, be willing to adapt, and let unexpected opportunities become new launching pads.Follow us for more veteran stories to guide your transition journey, and text this episode to a fellow service member who’s navigating their exit. Until next time, keep brewing your next chapter.Send us Fan MailVisit us at https://exitbuddy.buzzsprout.com to learn more about the show.Have feedback or questions for us? Email us at [email protected].

In this episode of Exit Buddy: Veteran Stories to Guide You, retired US Air Force pilot Jessica Ruttenber shares her remarkable journey navigating—and ultimately transforming—the world of military aviation. Jessica recounts battling physical and cultural obstacles to become a pilot, and how she advocated for lasting policy changes at the Pentagon. She discusses her transition with SkillBridge, the mental gymnastics of leaving military service, and the importance of documenting injuries and seeking mental health support. Jessica also reveals how following her passion took her from a corporate role to founding a nonprofit that empowers the next generation of aviators. Her story is one of resilience, advocacy, and purpose, offering insights for anyone facing career transitions or striving to create meaningful change.Chapters01:53 - Jessica’s Fight to Get into the Cockpit07:30 - Advocating for Women Pilots at the Pentagon10:41 - Transitioning with the SkillBridge Program13:07 - Finding Purpose with Level Up Aviation15:38 - Importance of Documenting Injuries for VA Benefits17:36 - Connecting with Veterans Post-Service19:38 - Advice on Addressing Mental HealthKey TakeawaysBreak Barriers with Persistence: Jessica’s story of overcoming obstacles, like the half an inch in height that stood between her and her aviation dream, reminds us that determination can rewrite the rules.Safeguard Your Future: Let your ego go and document your injuries now, as this is critical for obtaining VA benefits and the support you deserve down the road. Be sure to prioritize your emotional well-being in addition to your physical health, and reach out for support when needed.Find Your Passion and Mission Post-Service: Transitioning out of the military can mean a loss of identity and tribe, but finding a new mission is essential, just as Jessica did with her nonprofit work. Don’t be afraid to pivot toward what truly inspires you.Build a Network of Exit Buddies: Surround yourself with others who have already navigated the transition to civilian life. If you don’t know where to start, find someone online from your unit. Even if you haven’t talked to them in several years, Jessica encourages you that they will be happy to share their experience with you.Follow us for more veteran stories to guide your transition journey, and text this episode to a fellow service member who’s navigating their exit. Until next time, keep lifting others as you soar.Send us Fan MailVisit us at https://exitbuddy.buzzsprout.com to learn more about the show.Have feedback or questions for us? Email us at [email protected].

Join Kathleen Smith and Rachel Bozeman as they welcome Tom Eston, a Marine turned cybersecurity trailblazer, podcaster, and mentor, for an inspiring dive into his journey. From his infantry days to carving out a security career, Tom shares how curiosity, self-discipline, and determination fueled his rise. Tom emphasizes the importance of mentorship, continuous learning, and leveraging military-learned skills in the corporate world. His story is a testament to the potential within every veteran to reinvent themselves and excel in new fields.Chapters01:44 - Tom’s Marine Corps Infantry Days03:07 - The Spark of a Tech Career06:56 - Leaping into Security with a Real Estate Gig09:58 - Advice on Seeking Mentorship13:03 - Military Skills in the Corporate World15:48 - The Birth of a Podcasting Passion17:47 - Overcoming Nerves to Take Risks20:38 - Advice to His Younger SelfKey TakeawaysSelf-Discipline Drives Success: Continuous learning and personal motivation are critical for career transformation. Your ability to set goals, stay focused, and push through challenges determines your professional growth.Mentorship Comes in Many Forms: You don’t need a formal mentorship program to seek guidance. A single conversation or brief connection can provide pivotal insights for your career journey.Skills Can Be Learned, Character Cannot: Technical skills can be taught, but the leadership, adaptability, and problem-solving skills gained in military service are irreplaceable and set you apart.Network and Share Your Knowledge: Attend conferences, start a blog, and put yourself out there so people can learn who you are. As Tom learned, sharing your knowledge can help educate you in return.Follow us for more veteran stories to guide your transition journey, and text this episode to a fellow service member who’s navigating their exit. Catch you next time!Send us Fan MailVisit us at https://exitbuddy.buzzsprout.com to learn more about the show.Have feedback or questions for us? Email us at [email protected].

Join Kathleen Smith and Rachel Bozeman as they welcome Rob Fuller, a U.S. Marine veteran, cybersecurity leader, and community founder, for a raw look at his journey. From blowing up 300 pounds of C4 as a combat engineer to thriving in cybersecurity, Rob’s story takes a sobering turn with his struggle for VA benefits. Impacted by a culture of "toughing it out" and relying on "Vitamin M" (Motrin) instead of documenting injuries, he shares his battle with ongoing denied claims for nerve damage. Along the way, he discusses leadership rediscovery, building the Nova Hackers community, and even his role as a technical advisor for HBO’s Silicon Valley.Chapters01:59 - Rob’s Marine Corps Highlights04:11 - Transition Shocks and Low Expectations06:58 - Rediscovering Leadership Skills10:19 - Pivoting from Government to Commercial Sector13:43 - Prioritizing Family Over Work17:19 - Embracing the Power of Being Wrong20:00 - Building the Nova Hackers Community25:01 - VA Benefits Warning: The Cost of Toughing It Out29:32 - Technical Advisor Role on Silicon Valley32:48 - Closing Thoughts and Marine ShoutoutKey TakeawaysDocument Everything: Don’t simply “tough it out”—get seen for everything. An injury may not bother you much now, but it could affect you down the road. Document now so there is a paper trail to refer back to in the future.Embrace Being Wrong: Rob has a superpower worth adopting—he doesn’t just mind being wrong, he loves it. When you’re wrong, you’re learning, so don’t be afraid to be wrong so that you can continue to progress and better yourself. Prioritize What Matters Most to You: Rob’s decision not to miss his son’s first day of kindergarten reminds us that jobs are replaceable, family milestones aren’t.Build Your Tribe: Rob took action when a poorly organized meetup left him wanting more. Despite early setbacks, he persisted, eventually co-founding Nova Hackers, which now has over 900 members.Follow us for more veteran stories to guide your transition journey, and text this episode to a fellow service member who’s navigating their exit. Catch you next time!Send us Fan MailVisit us at https://exitbuddy.buzzsprout.com to learn more about the show.Have feedback or questions for us? Email us at [email protected].

In this episode of Exit Buddy: Veteran Stories to Guide You, Air Force veteran Jaimee Freeman shares her recent military transition experience—shedding her Chief identity for "just" Jaimee after 28 years of service. Jaimee reveals how she pivoted from linguist to Pentagon event planner, turned down a lucrative job upon transition (not allowing fear to make her rush into something), and used networking, skill-building, and a bold proposal to land her dream SkillBridge internship at National Geographic.Chapters02:57 Military Beginnings and Linguist Life04:05 Pivot to Event Planning09:12 Insights from an RV Adventure11:24 The Courage to Turn Down a Job13:33 SkillBridge with National Geographic18:06 Shedding "Chief," Becoming Jaimee20:05 Finding Identity and PurposeKey TakeawaysStart Soul Searching Early: 3-4 years out from transition, make sure you’re asking yourself questions like, What makes me happy? What do I really want to do? And what do I need to do to get there?Prepare for a Shift in Identity: Start practicing who you are outside of your rank before your military exit. Jaimee began signing her emails "Jaimee" while still in uniform because she knew one day she would be out of the service and just Jaimee.Say No to Fear: Sometimes fear of uncertainty can make you want to accept a job. Pause and really ask yourself if it’s what you want. Jaimee felt that fear, but courageously stuck to her plan instead of rushing.Jaimee’s Three Keys to Success: Build your skills, network, and take your shot!Follow us for more veteran stories to guide your transition journey, and text this episode to a fellow service member who’s ready to design their next chapter. Until next time, keep taking your shot!Send us Fan MailVisit us at https://exitbuddy.buzzsprout.com to learn more about the show.Have feedback or questions for us? Email us at [email protected].

Air Force veteran Josh Mason shares his journey of military transition and personal growth on this episode of Exit Buddy: Veteran Stories to Guide You. From cybersecurity to teaching, entrepreneurship, podcasting, and building a chicken coop, Josh showcases the power of creativity, networking, and embracing challenges with a stoic grin. He reveals how strategic outreach on LinkedIn and a willingness to tackle the tough stuff led to unexpected opportunities.Chapters02:09 Josh’s Pivot to Cybersecurity and Teaching06:50 Transition Journey and SkillBridge Internship 08:29 Networking Creativity Lands a Job15:06 Entrepreneurial Ventures Post-Military20:18 Embracing the Suck with Stoic Strength25:43 Parting Advice on Cybersecurity CareersKey TakeawaysEmbrace the Uncomfortable: As Josh says, nothing’s going to be as uncomfortable as basic training or being deployed was—civilian transitions are just another challenge to conquer. Get creative, step out of your comfort zone, and approach new opportunities with curiosity.Network with Purpose: Leverage veteran communities, LinkedIn, and online platforms. Your next opportunity may likely come through your connections, not traditional job application processes. Veterans take care of veterans.Continuous Learning is Your Superpower: Whether it’s cybersecurity, entrepreneurship, or building a chicken coop, approach new challenges with a learning mindset. Your ability to acquire and apply new skills is your greatest asset.Create Your Own Path: The civilian world isn't prescribed like military life. Be willing to craft unique opportunities, whether through internships, side projects, or unexpected career pivots. Your creativity is your competitive advantage.Follow us for more veteran stories to guide your transition journey, and text this episode to a fellow service member who’s navigating their exit. Until next time, keep finding ways to endure and enjoy the tough stuff!Send us Fan MailVisit us at https://exitbuddy.buzzsprout.com to learn more about the show.Have feedback or questions for us? Email us at [email protected].

Army veteran Daniel Benjamin steps up to the mic to share his military transition story, from 20 years in signals intelligence to a program manager in cybersecurity and healthcare, on this episode of Exit Buddy: Veteran Stories to Guide You. He recounts how the reserves offered a helpful safety net during his transition into contracting, and how his wife’s military transition deepened his understanding of the diverse challenges veterans face. Daniel also discusses his evolution from managing systems to leading people, and his passion for volunteering and uplifting others.Chapters01:07 From Music to Signals Intelligence02:37 Heavy Lifting in SIGINT Days04:17 Benefits of the Reserves06:24 Finding His Place in Civilian Contracting08:11 From Technical Roles to Program Management09:31 Mentoring Veterans and Uplifting Others14:06 Dollar Signs and Compensation Calculators16:49 Volunteering to Give Back18:07 Daniel’s Advice to His Younger SelfKey TakeawaysBuild a Safety Net: Daniel found some relief as a reservist because it gave him extra access to training and a backup plan should he lose a contract. Having a plan B in case things go awry can ease the transition to the civilian workforce.Do Some Compensation Research: Online calculators can help you understand how much your military pay is equivalent to on the civilian side—but location plays a big role in compensation too. Daniel saw that the same position in Virginia had a much higher salary than its Tampa counterpart.Get Your Resume Through Pre-Pub Early: Leverage your network to help you translate your resume into civilian terms. Start working on your resume and get it through pre-publication a year out to ease the process.Seek Ways to Uplift Others: Daniel finds joy in volunteering and helping others. Consider exploring opportunities to share your experience and support those around you.Follow us for more veteran stories to guide your transition journey, and text this episode to a fellow service member who’s navigating their exit. Until next time, keep lifting others up!Send us Fan MailVisit us at https://exitbuddy.buzzsprout.com to learn more about the show.Have feedback or questions for us? Email us at [email protected].

In this episode of Exit Buddy: Veteran Stories to Guide You, 20-year Air Force veteran Trecie Spencer shares her journey from joining the Air Force at 17 to a successful career as a project manager at GSA. She dives into how a phone line snafu at Nellis Air Force Base launched her networking mindset, how dreams of colorful nails signaled her military exit, and how a hiring freeze curveball tested her resilience. With a mantra of “presence over possessions,” Trecie prioritizes a life rich with experiences over material things and inspires listeners to step into discomfort to grow and find their identity.Chapters01:10 Trecie’s Air Force Beginnings02:14 Lessons Learned at Nellis Air Force Base04:31 Feeling the Retirement Shift After 20 Years07:21 Military Transition Is Like Graduating from High School09:38 Staying Grounded During a Hiring Freeze13:16 Trecie’s Passion for New Experiences and Travel14:56 Proudest Moment: Staying True to Values16:09 Make Yourself UncomfortableKey TakeawaysLearn from Mistakes: Embrace your errors as learning opportunities. As Trecie shares, there’s no better lesson learned than the one that you’ve made a mistake on.Listen to Inner Signals: Recognize that small rebellions—like Trecie’s nail-color cravings—might indicate it’s time to retire and reclaim your identity outside the uniform.Pause to Rediscover Yourself: Set aside time post-service, as Trecie suggests, to enjoy retirement and explore who you are beyond the military.Pursue What Fuels You: Remember what truly matters to you—whether it’s travel and new adventures or something else—to shape a fulfilling life after service. Step Outside Your Comfort Zone: Growth often lies beyond what feels comfortable. Trecie encourages veterans to embrace discomfort, as taking risks and trying new things can lead to unexpected opportunities and personal development.Follow us for more veteran stories to guide your transition journey, and text this episode to a fellow service member who’s navigating their exit. Until next time, paint those nails red and step boldly onto your new trail!Send us Fan MailVisit us at https://exitbuddy.buzzsprout.com to learn more about the show.Have feedback or questions for us? Email us at [email protected].

Air Force veteran Steve Luczynski shares his remarkable journey from soaring the skies in F-15s and F-22s to navigating national security policy, diving into a cybersecurity leadership path, and eventually pivoting back to his first love—flying—in this episode of Exit Buddy: Veteran Stories to Guide You. With a career that spanned Japan to Europe and a Pentagon stint that sparked his cybersecurity detour, Steve recounts how family stability and a thirst for new challenges initially steered him away from the traditional airline path post-military. He dives into leveraging military-honed skills like translating complex ideas under pressure, chairing the Aerospace Village to reignite his passion for aviation, and embracing multiple career shifts with confidence—proving veterans can pivot again and again.Chapters01:45 Steve’s 24-year Air Force Career Highlights03:59 Choosing a New Challenge After the Air Force06:03 Pivot #1 to Cybersecurity and the Skills that Made it Possible10:32 Pivot #2 Back to the Skies13:26 The Aerospace Village’s Impact on Steve’s Second Act in Aviation16:14 Asking for Help and Mentorship19:42 The Coffee Talk That Helped Steve Land His First Job22:00 Steve’s Advice to His Younger Self Key TakeawaysPivot with Purpose: You don’t have to lock into one post-service path—explore your options to align your next move with your family’s needs or a fresh passion.Leverage Your Military Edge: Your service-honed abilities—like leading under pressure or solving problems on the go—translate to any civilian field, opening doors you might not expect.Embrace Asking for Help: If you’re reluctant to ask for help, skip asking for a job and instead ask about others’ experiences and insights. This opens the door to valuable guidance that many people love to give.Fuel Your Passions: Seek out side projects or volunteer roles, like Steve’s Aerospace Village, to reignite what drives you and create a network that supports your next chapter.Embrace the Multi-Pivot Life: One career shift isn’t your limit—Steve’s return to flying proves your skills and courage can launch you again and again.Follow us for more veteran stories to guide your transition journey, and text this episode to a fellow service member who’s navigating their exit. Until next time, keep your wings ready for takeoff!Send us Fan MailVisit us at https://exitbuddy.buzzsprout.com to learn more about the show.Have feedback or questions for us? Email us at [email protected].

Army veteran John Stoner shares his resilient path from signals intelligence analyst to cybersecurity leader in this episode of Exit Buddy: Veteran Stories to Guide You. With a decade of Army service—spanning time in Afghanistan, Bagram, Ottawa, and NSA headquarters—John was primed for a return to intelligence work after separating. Instead, repeated inconclusive results on the NSA Full Scope Polygraph exam challenged those plans and sparked a career pivot. He opens up about embracing authenticity through his iconic Mohawk, navigating a volatile cybersecurity job market, and leveraging military-honed skills like briefing under pressure to bring calm to cyber chaos. John also offers candid advice on building support networks, prioritizing mental health, and discovering purpose outside the familiar anchor of a security clearance during the transition to civilian life.Chapters01:16 Stories from John's Army SIGINT Career02:48 The Polygraph Process and Career Pivot04:56 Advice for Veterans Tied to Military Identity07:04 Embracing the Mohawk and Authentic Self09:54 The Evolution of John's Personal Brand12:06 Discovering Passion in Community15:11 Finding Your Tribe and Support Networks19:15 Turning Military Skills into Cyber Strategy23:25 Mentorship and Career PathwaysKey TakeawaysEmbrace Being Flexible: Tough job market? Channel "Semper Gumby"—stay open to small companies and commercial gigs. Your identity's bigger than your MOS or security clearance.Authenticity > Conformity: Rock your vibe (Mohawk or otherwise). Find a workplace or community that supports your authentic self.Prioritize Mental Health: Therapy isn't a last resort—and your spouse and family are not your therapist. Lean on pros to unpack the load.Find Your People: Swap Reddit rabbit holes for one-on-one mentors and community. Join cyber tribes like VetSec, BSides, or the Diana Initiative to build support mechanisms outside of your job.Fulfillment Hack: True passion can be found in the side quests—not just your 9-to-5.Follow us for more veteran stories to guide your transition journey, and text this episode to a fellow service member who’s navigating their exit. Until next time, stay flexible and keep forging ahead!Send us Fan MailVisit us at https://exitbuddy.buzzsprout.com to learn more about the show.Have feedback or questions for us? Email us at [email protected].

In this bonus episode of Exit Buddy: Veteran Stories to Guide You, hosts Kathleen Smith and Rachel Bozeman pull back the curtain for a fun, heartfelt "get to know us" chat. From the inspiration behind the podcast name to their career journeys, military connections, and top advice for transitioning vets, they share laughs, life lessons, and a peek at their furry co-hosts. Whether you're curious about what makes these two tick or just need a reminder to "shake it off," this episode is your perfect pit stop before we dive back into more veteran spotlights.Key HighlightsPodcast Origins: Discover why Kathleen named the show Exit Buddy and how Rachel's recruiting passion led her to champion veteran hires.Career Pivots & Advice: Hear the "aha" moments that shaped their approaches to job hunting, plus their three-word career philosophies (network, network, network, anyone?).Transition Tips: Don't count yourself out—ask questions, leverage your skills, and build that cross-network to grab your exit buddy.Fur Baby Shenanigans: Meet the squad and their hilariously honest "feedback" on the hosts.Power Anthem Reveal: What's the ultimate song to power through tough days? (Hint: It's a Taylor Swift banger.)About the HostsKathleen Smith is a career strategist with deep roots in the security-cleared community, passionate about demystifying the civilian job market for veterans.Rachel Bozeman is a talent acquisition pro with a heart for military families, connecting heroes to careers that match their fire.Tune in for inspiration, giggles, and a reminder that transitioning doesn't have to be a solo swim—you've got your exit buddies right here.Next Up: Join us Monday for another veteran-led story to light your path.Exit Buddy: Veteran Stories to Guide You is brought to you by Kathleen Smith, Rachel Bozeman, and Ashley Jones. Special thanks to our furry crew for keeping things lively.Send us Fan MailVisit us at https://exitbuddy.buzzsprout.com to learn more about the show.Have feedback or questions for us? Email us at [email protected].

Navy veteran Shanon Raab discusses his journey from machinist’s mate to passionate recruiter, in both the Navy and civilian worlds, in our first official episode of Exit Buddy: Veteran Stories to Guide You. Shanon shares how a chance visit to the mall at 17 sparked his military career, how mentoring a shipmate led to his Navy recruiting role, and how a sudden decision to leave the service after 20 years left him facing a daunting civilian transition. He dives into being rejected for jobs as “overqualified,” landing civilian gigs through networking on LinkedIn, and helping veterans find their footing, all while emphasizing the power of TAP classes, tailored resumes, and staying true to your passion to thrive post-service.Chapters01:18 Shanon's Journey to the Navy04:02 Recruiting Duty and Special Programs Path07:14 Shanon's Unexpected Transition Out of the Military09:23 Common Mistakes in Military Transition11:22 Importance of TAP Classes13:28 Job Application Challenges17:13 Networking for Success20:39 Finding the Right Company Culture22:17 Advice for Federal Contracting Roles25:10 The Importance of Passion in Your Career25:58 Final Thoughts on Military Transition and MentorshipKey TakeawaysCheck Your Ego: Senior leaders and career lifers, don’t let pride block your transition prep—embrace mentorship and guidance.Plan Early and Often: Start transition planning a year out, revisit TAPs, and stay open to new programs like SkillBridge.Tailor Your Resume: Beat AI screening by aligning your resume with job descriptions—keywords are your friend.Network Like You Mean It: From LinkedIn to veteran networking events, building connections is critical.Stay True to Your Passion: As our guest says, “If you lose your passion, you’ve lost at life.” Find what lights your fire and chase it.Follow us for more veteran stories to guide your transition journey, and text this episode to a fellow service member who’s navigating their exit. Until next time, keep the fire in your belly burning!Send us Fan MailVisit us at https://exitbuddy.buzzsprout.com to learn more about the show.Have feedback or questions for us? Email us at [email protected].

Join hosts Kathleen Smith and Rachel Bozeman for the launch of Exit Buddy: Veteran Stories to Guide You! This podcast is your go-to resource for navigating the transition from military to civilian life. Each episode features a veteran sharing their real stories, practical tips for career transitions, advice on building strong support networks, and candid lessons learned to light your path forward. Whether you're preparing for your military transition or already in the thick of it, Exit Buddy has your back. Hit follow and get ready for inspiring stories and actionable strategies to empower your next step!Send us Fan MailVisit us at https://exitbuddy.buzzsprout.com to learn more about the show.Have feedback or questions for us? Email us at [email protected].