FTU...Life after the military Podcast

In this episode I am joined by Chas Sampson, founder of Seven Principles, an organization who helps veterans with the VA claims. Chas has a background in help veterans and has now ventured into help athletes in the NFL. His journey is one to be celebrated due to his perseverance and and his willingness to embrace new ideas in order to achieve his goals. Chas was like many veterans who wanted to do 20 years in the military, but then decided that he wanted to pursue other interests. Chas explains how he diversified his portfolio and sets his hours while pursuing his dreams. Chas is an example for all veterans to follow! We end the show with the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TODE!!!"

In this episode I am joined by Tony Demaio, the Founder and CEO of Helping Heroes USA. We talk about how his organization helps veterans, first responders, and others who deal with suicidal thoughts. We discuss how and why he started his organization and how it had evolved over the years. Tony explains how listening to someone in need makes a difference in their lives. Tony mentions how the program has progressed to virtual seminars due to the overwhelming need for a program such as this. I also had to apologize because I have become a bit overwhelmed with my projects that I missed our first recording date and Tony was gracious enough to reschedule. We end the show the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"

In this episode I am joined by Giuseppe Grammatico and we discuss the opportunities of pursuing a franchise. I found this episode to be very informative and I am extremely grateful to Giuseppe for coming on the podcast and discussing how to start a franchise. Giuseppe explains how to choose a franchise and how to go about financing the franchise. He also provides assistance to people who are interested in starting their own franchise. You can reach him through his website to set up a meeting and take advantage of his assistance. We end the show a bit early because I realized I scheduled an episode on my wife's birthday.

In this episode I speak with Shaun Murphy, veteran, motivational speaker, entrepreneur, and author. Shaun shares how he came to write his newest book, Unbreakable Valor: Triumph Through the Soul of Resilience. We discuss how failure should be embraced because it helps to develop perseverance and build character. Shaun's helped me by just reminding me that we all go through rough parts in our life and it is alright to take a break. Shaun also explain how he pursued a career in music when others thought it wouldn't work. We talk about the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people. We end the show withe the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!" 

In this episode I asked Marilyn to come back and share some information about being a woman in the military and the difficulties of being a mother (things that I will never understand). Daniel comes on to share some knowledge about his transition and the lessons he learned. We discuss how the military has changed over the years and we share some resources that helped with navigating the VA. Marilyn and Daniel both share their current projects and we end the show with the farewell "ZOT!" ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"

In this episode I catch up with Marvin, an old medic pal and University of Alabama fan. We discuss his transition from the military and the assistance he received from his unit while transitioning. We discuss the difficulties of letting go of the military mindset and leaning into our new lives. We talk a bit about the long hours "regular" people work and how it was not for me. We chat about my hair transplant and our golf games. We end the show with shout outs and the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"

In this episode I catch up with James who demonstrated a high level of perseverance due to the technical difficulties I had with this episode (thank you, James). James explains the steps that he took to develop a plan to transition out of the military. He explains how his plan to be a consultant turned to a career in project management. We discuss his new service animal. We talk a bit about how his skills in the military helped him with his transition and he provides an update on his MBA at Northwestern. James talks about how networking helped him with finding a career that suits him. We end the show withe the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"

In this episode I catch up with Jason and Melanie. Jason started his own YouTube channel to help active duty military prepare for the transition from the military. His provides valid insights to the reality of transitioning from the military and speaks in a language that every veteran and active duty military member will easily understand. They describe the challenges they faced in the first several years of transitioning. We talk about following up with another episode on mental health. I apologize for "stalking" them on Linkedin, not really. I end the show with the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"

In this episode I talk to T.Shane, owner of Big Guns Coffee. This is an amazing story of a father supporting his daughter and helping her start a company at the age of 6, YES, I SAID 6! Shane explains how they developed the idea and built a company from scratch. This would be enough for any episode, but Shane describes his that he experienced when he transitioned from the Marine Corps. Shane then explains the process that he and his daughter developed to grow the beans. Big Guns is available at https://www.biggunscoffee.com/ and can be bought locally in the Carolinas. We end the show with the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"

In this episode I talk to Kijuan Amey. Kijuan is an Air Force veteran with a remarkable story of triumph. He tells me about what drove him to serve his country and the extraordinary job of refueling aircraft while in flight. Kijuan then tells me about the day that changed his life and what motivated him to move beyond that event. He provides insight into what drives him to help people and why he became a motivational speaker. We discuss his new book "Don't Focus on Why Me: From Motorcycle Accident to Miracle". If you only listen to one episode from this podcast, please listen to this episode. Thank you Kijuan!

Is this episode I catch up with Jason. After 20 years of service to the U.S., Jason is ready to move on and pursue other ventures. We discuss the importance of planning and networking. Jason's positive attitude and perspective of what is important to him comes through in the discussion and will hopefully help veterans out there. I discuss the VR&E program that is offered through the Department of Veterans Affairs and the importance of choosing a VA facility that is right for you. We end the show with shout outs and the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and ROLL TIDE!!!".

In this episode I catch up with Marilyn. We talk a bit about our time in Cell Block 8 (98th CA) and she explains how she transitioned from the military. Marilyn then explains the importance of networking and refining your resume. We discuss the difference between project management in the military and project management in the civilian world. Marilyn talks about the challenges of being a military spouse and the adventures of having children. We end the show with shout outs and the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"

In this episode I catch up with Victor (Vic). We discuss how Vic transitioned from the military to "normal" life. Vic explains how his family helped with the decision to move to Florida. We also talk about how Vic has started several businesses and the lessons he has learned along the way. We talk about how he has leveraged business partners to advance his career to achieve his goals. I give a shout out to Cinterra and my boss Jason and we end the show with the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"

In this episode I catch up with Foster (98th Civil Affairs BN). We discuss his transition from the military and the perseverance he demonstrated in navigating through civilian life. We talk a bit about the trap that veterans fall into by pursuing project management jobs. Foster explains how he used the VR&E program to earn another Graduate degree. We end the show shout outs and an invitation to return to the show.  

In this episode I discuss a video about a boat captain who had a video of his action go viral and he just so happens to be a veteran. I talk about what may have triggered his outburst and how the veteran community should support each other. I explain that the need for improved training for Department of Veterans Affairs administrators is needed now more than ever. I give credit to Alfredo and Chris for helping me remain sane and I end the show with the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"

In this episode I discuss the difference in medical care between the military and medical care after the military. I explain the importance of asking questions and voicing your opinion in medical care. I talk about the mighty Ant Eaters of UC Irvine reaching the finals in the NIT. I then talk about the business I started with Jesse and Stacey, The Patriiot Leadership Consultants. I end the show with a shout out to my children and the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"

In this episode I discuss my recent birthday and how I just recently started celebrating them after a 30 year break. I follow that up with my decision to start a consultancy group to provide leadership training to organization. I explain how I trademarked the term "flush the mouse" and intend on passing the rights of this term to the actual creator. I give some shout outs to two tuff puppies and my grandbabies. I end the show with the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"

In this episode I discuss the results of running the Myrtle Beach Half Marathon. I then talk about how to deal with unwanted advice by so-called "experts". I also talk about the transition from the military and the need to continue to seek out new skills. I make a recommendation of how the non-veteran community should communicate with veterans. I end the show with the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLLTIDE!!!"

In this episode I discuss the uncertainty with federal jobs at the moment. I discuss why it is important to have an updated resume and I recommend two sites that offer assistance with resume. I also recommend Cassie Hatcher and her company for assistance to the veteran community. I talk a bit about the importance of updated headshots and end the show with the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"

In this episode I explain why I have been gone for a few months. I discuss the difficulties I have at the end of each year dealing with survivors guilt, PTSD, and anxiety. I explain how setting short term goals assist me in getting through this annual problem. I give a shout out to Dr. Raz and end the show with the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!".

In this episode I discuss where I have been over the last month. I mention the move I made to the solar industry and how my mental health has improved because I moved on from the military. I provide an update on my PhD program and mention how the Crimson Tide is stressing me out. I end the show with the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"

In this episode I discuss how my personal life and professional life proved to be a bit challenging over the last several weeks. I discuss the interview process for a promotion with my former employer. I then explain how a PhD with a dissertation in conflict resolution did everything in their power to avoid conflict. I follow that up with how patience and perseverance proved to be invaluable in finding a new career opportunity. I remind people to go out and enjoy life and I end the show with the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!".

I start the show by explaining why I have taken some time off from the podcast. I explain that my sister passed away and how that has affected my family. I discuss the importance of doing what makes you happy. I then explain how I attended GalaxyCon and met Danny Trejo and William Shatner (CAPT Kirk). I explain the meaning of "le cheeserie" and I congratulate my friend for being promoted to First Sergeant. I end the show with the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!".

In this episode I touch on three topics. First, I discuss the reasons why people might "snitch" while in the Army and why it is okay. I then explain the discussion I had this week with a retired Colonel who did his best to convince me that he had retired all while insisting that people address him as "Sir" or "Colonel". I then talk about the importance of getting an insurance policy when you leave the military. I explain that there is no deadline to getting a free quote on life insurance. I end the show withe the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"

In this episode I discuss my exciting night out at the Dave Matthews Band concert. I describe how I managed my PTSD and refrained from punching people out. I also mention how my PTSD is my problem and I do not expect people to change their actions for me. I talk a bit about staying healthy after the military. I explain how two former Sergeants Major have successfully transitioned out of the military. I give a shout out to my daughter for being accepted to UNC Greensboro's MBA program. I end the show with the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"

In this mammoth of an episode I catch up with Jorge and Eli. We talk about Eli's transition out of the military and the similarities of crazy people wanting to fight him. Jorge talks about his life as a project a manager and the importance of certifications. Since we were all in the 98th, we spend some time discussing the craziness of Special Operations. We end the show with a shout out to Enrique Hernandez and his "The Property & Wealth Podcast" and the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"

In this episode I discuss a book I read and the importance of seizing an opportunity. I talk about why it is alright to celebrate Memorial Day in your own way. I touch on ignoring the nonsense of being part of the fictional "1%". I review how Jr's hard work has paid off and he is prospering after retiring from the military. I end the show with the farewell  "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"

In this episode I discuss the symposium I attended this week. I talk about the nonsense that comes out of the mouth of military people because they do not realize it is inappropriate. I mention how some pervert tried to strike up a conversation in the gym while I was dressing. I mention the importance of taking care of ourselves. I end the show by mentioning the One CA Podcast and the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"

In this episode I discuss my daughters graduation and how I refrained from embarrassing her at the ceremony. I talk about the pitfalls from not having something to do when we retire from the military. I mention a young artist who assisted me with my book chapter. I thank the people who listen to the podcast and reference that Vlad Putin might be a listener (probably not). I provide suggestion for other podcasts and end the show with the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"

In this episode I discuss my week and the ups and downs of being in a PhD program. I start by discussing having coffee with Scot Storey and then catching up with James later in the week. I mention how I am now being mistaken for someone who speaks Farsi. I explain how Jesse helped teach me perseverance while in SERE school. I talk a bit about finding purpose after the military. I end the show with a shout out to an artist, Venus Wong in the DC area and a shout out to Gene Gene, my grandson. I end the show withe the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"

In this episode I discuss the time I have taken away from the podcast to relax. I talk about the book chapter I am writing along with my PhD cohort and how I stay busy. I also talk about the crazy idea I heard from a retiree to about rejoining the military if they could keep their pension and disability pay. I end the show with the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!" 

In this episode I catch up with Chris H and Time. We relive the time our tents went up in flames in TQ near Ramadi. We share how the military provided us with an opportunity to improve the quality of our lives. We share our thoughts on former "leaders" and then talk about mental health issues. We touch on suicide in the veteran population and how we can assist each other. We end the show with shout outs and the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!".

In this episode Chris and Alfredo return to discuss music. We talk about the reasons why we like the different music. This episode is basically just me catching up with some friends and enjoying the day. Chris and I give a shout out to Scot Storey. We end the show with the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!".

In this episode I catch up with Mike Jackson (not that Mike Jackson). I met Mike years ago in the medic refresher course and he is part of the reason why I sought out assistance for my mental health issues. I also continued with my education because of the advice Mike provided during my time in refresher. Mike is also one of the few people on the planet who did not make fun of me for liking heavy metal music and I will always be grateful for that. If you don't listen to any other episodes, please listen to this one.  We end the show with shout outs and the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"

In this episode I catch up with Tim who I served with in the 82nd ABN DIV. We discuss his transition from active duty and his transition from the reserves. Tim discusses how his training in the military assisted him with finding employment. We discuss a possible future episode with Chris H. from the 82nd ABN DIV and we end the show with shout outs and the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!" P.S. my apologies for the sound quality, I'm am self-teaching on how to edit the audio.

In this episode I discuss the recruiting strategies of the Navy and why retirees should just move along and not offer their opinion on the topic. I then discuss how I have dealt with my anxiety issues and how it has affected me over the last several weeks. I talk about the pointlessness of the 22 pushups campaign and how it doesn't help the people who need help. I talk about Scot Storey's podcast and end the show with the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!".

In this episode I discuss the decision to get "new" hair. I promote a new podcast "DESPITE THE LIMITS" from Scot Storey. I discuss how you might be able to start your own podcast and the different programs out there. I end the show with the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"

In this episode I catch up with Bryce who is starting his journey to become a doctor. We discuss the treatments he has utilized to improve his quality of life. We discuss my trip to Bosley Hair Treatment and the importance of taking care of yourself. We end the show with shout outs and the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"

In this episode I talk about my trip to the Rose Bowl and the inspirational speeches of "ROLL TIDE" Willie. I discuss the different treatment options for treating anxiety and PTSD and mention how I dealt with being in a large crowd for several hours. I joke about people not knowing me and not liking me and if they gave me a chance that they would quickly learn to hate me. I end the show with shout outs and the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"

In this episode I recap some of the stories presented by veterans. I discuss the problem I have with anxiety and how I struggle to relax. I talk about the importance of checking in on one another. I mention how I upset some Michigan fans on Twitter because I referred to the players as hobos. I talk about my trip to the Rose Bowl and I end the show with the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"

In this episode I share some exciting news about Brandon winning his contest and earning a new Big Rig. I discuss the difficulties of the holidays and share some insight on pursuing employment during this time of year. I talk about working to earn money to enjoy life and not working to live. I give shout outs to my grand babies and end the show with the customary "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"

In this episode I discuss the upcoming webinar on commercial investing as a passive income stream.  I then discuss the situation with a young paratrooper and how his command team failed him.  I talk about my adventure at BUC EE's and how it took me back to the mean streets of All Kut, Iraq.  I end the show with the customary "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!" 

In this episode I discuss the two different experiences I had this week where I had to decide to either be assertive or aggressive.  I talk about the myth of the "All Knowing" mythical captain and why rank means absolutely nothing while in the military and after the military.  I end the show with the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"  

In this episode I discuss the stupid idea I had when I bought a Trojan helmet and my experience with my first panel in my academic career.  I talk about the support I have received from my cohort and express my feelings about the VA.  I talk a bit about CTE and how every military member should be concerned with this issue.  I provide some information about the Honor Foundation and end the show with the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"

In this episode I discuss the year of transition from the military.  I talk about the different types of perseverance and why GRIT in the military might not be worth anything in normal life.  I explain discuss the reasons behind "ZOT!" and "ROLLTIDE!!!".  I give thank to TROY UNIVERSITY and the PhD program in Global Leadership.  I end the show with the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLLTIDE!!!"

In this episode I catch up with Brandon.  We follow up from the last time we spoke about 10 months ago.  He discusses how he transitioned out of the military and started driving big rigs.  He talks about becoming a finalist in a big rig competition and how we can all help him win.  He talks about how peaceful his life has become after retirement.  We end the show with the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"

In this episode I talk to Austin and we reminisce about our time in B Co, 98th Civil Affairs BN and out adventures in Guyana and Colombia.  Austin explains why he left the military and pursued a MBE for UNC Chapel Hill.  Austin talks about the programs his company ha in place to assist veterans.  He talks about the NGO he is working with to do some work in the Dominican Republic and we end the show with shout outs and the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"  

In this episode I am joined by Eli and we discuss why the we have been misidentified by the government and the last legacy of the Spanish empire.  We discuss how the use of skin tone is an outdated and idiotic concept.  We discuss the difficulties we have experienced for not being "TRUE" Mexicans and note being "REAL" Americans.  We end the show with shout outs and the customary "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"""

In this episode I catch up with my friend Enrique who is a mover and shaker in the world of commercial investing.  Enrique discusses how he started in commercial investing and how he has learned that he has learned to depend on others.  We talk about and old friend, Hector, who is the embodiment of positivity.  We end the show by trying out some of the new sound effects, give some shout outs, and depart with the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"

In this episode I discuss my upcoming trip to Alabama! GO TROY! I describe my interaction with a veteran who has started a podcast and his ;ack of an introduction led to a quick disconnect.  I pat myself on the back for my first ad "BEEF! It's wat's for dinner!!".  I announce the beginning of video uploads to YOUTUBE and I end the show with the farewell "ZOT!" "ZOT!" "ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"