Military Retirement Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Livestream #6 - with Kristen Ross @hireheroesusa - Navigating the Federal Employment Process Apr 10, 2024

Show notes

Federal Jobs and Federal Resumes with Kristen Ross from https://HireHeroesUSA.org

Kristen Ross, a federal resume program manager at HireHeroesUSA, shares insights on navigating the federal employment process. She emphasizes the importance of tailoring resumes to each job and highlighting relevant experience. Kristen also discusses the differences between private sector and federal resumes, noting that federal resumes require more narrative content and focus on demonstrating experience. She advises against submitting a master resume and suggests creating series-specific resumes. Kristen also addresses common misconceptions about the federal hiring process, such as the use of keywords and direct hires. She provides tips on finding key information in job announcements and emphasizes the significance of eligibility and qualifications. The conversation in this part focuses on eligibility requirements, the different positions and agencies within the federal government, and the application process. It also touches on the importance of networking and reaching out to hiring managers. The flowchart provided gives an overview of the competitive examining process and highlights the complexity of the system. They also debunk common myths and provide resources for staying informed about federal hiring.

Takeaways

Tailor your resume to each federal job and highlight relevant experience

Federal resumes require more narrative content and focus on demonstrating experience

Avoid submitting a master resume and create series-specific resumes

Misconceptions about the federal hiring process include the use of keywords and direct hires

Pay attention to eligibility and qualifications in job announcements Eligibility requirements are important when applying for federal positions, and not all positions are open to the public.

Different agencies have different positions and qualifications, so it's important to research and understand the specific requirements.

Networking, both on LinkedIn and through agency contacts, can be beneficial in finding federal job opportunities.

The application process can be complex, and it's important to follow instructions and be patient throughout the process.

Focus on the past 10 years of experience in your federal resume.

Be responsive to emails and phone calls during the federal hiring process.

Stay informed about federal hiring by using resources like FedWeek and Government Executive.

Don't believe common myths about federal hiring and seek accurate information.

00:00 Introduction and Background

01:50 Navigating the Federal Employment Process

06:55 Crafting an Effective Federal Resume

13:56 Demystifying Misconceptions about the Federal Hiring Process

39:18 Understanding Eligibility Requirements

41:38 Navigating Different Agencies and Positions

45:06 The Importance of Networking

45:36 Reaching Out to Hiring Managers

50:47 Exploring USAJOBS and Resources

54:33 Avoiding Common Mistakes in Applications

56:28 Understanding the 180-Day Restriction

01:02:08 The Future of Remote Work

01:11:36 An Overview of the Competitive Examining Process

01:18:23 Highlighting Transferable Skills and Unique Approaches in Federal Resumes

01:22:46 Focusing on the Past 10 Years of Experience in Federal Resumes

01:25:35 Being Responsive and Proactive in the Federal Hiring Process

01:28:27 Staying Informed: Resources for Federal Hiring

01:31:43 Debunking Common Myths About Federal Hiring

Brought to you by StreamYard. Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://streamyard.com/pal/d/4998128083271680

Navy retirement and relocation to San Antonio in an RV with wife and kids Apr 04, 2024

Show notes

How to take a minimalist approach in order to get your life in order before retiring from the military.

Takeaways:

- Transitioning from the military to civilian life is not as hard as it seems, but it requires knowing the right people and asking the right questions.

- Telling your own story and sharing your experiences can help others understand that a successful transition is possible.

- Having a plan in place and being financially prepared for a period of unemployment after leaving the military is crucial.

- Living in an RV can be a cost-effective and transformative experience, teaching you to appreciate the small things in life.

- Mentorship and open, honest conversations are essential for personal and professional growth. Mentorship can have a positive impact on personal growth and success.

- Reading books, especially autobiographies and military history, can provide valuable insights and perspectives.

- Challenges and failures can lead to personal growth and future success.

- Transitioning service members should seek mentorship and financial education to navigate the transition process.

- San Antonio offers affordable housing, veteran-friendly services, and access to healthcare for veterans.

Dan Schuyler, a retired military veteran, shares his experience and insights on transitioning from the military to civilian life. He emphasizes the importance of knowing the right people, asking the right questions, and realizing that there is more to life than just the military. Dan also highlights the significance of telling his own story and helping others understand that a successful transition is possible. He discusses his morning routine after retirement, his decision to sell his house and live in an RV, and the financial preparations he made for retirement. Dan advises veterans to have a plan in place and be prepared for a period of unemployment after leaving the military. He also emphasizes the importance of mentorship and having open, honest conversations with others. Dan Schuyler discusses the importance of mentorship and shares his experience with a mentor who pushed him to be better. He also talks about his reading preferences and the impact of reading on personal growth. Dan reflects on a major challenge he faced in his career and how he recovered from it. He emphasizes the importance of mentorship and financial education for transitioning service members and offers free consultations through his organization, Military Retirement Solutions. Dan also highlights the benefits of living in San Antonio, including affordable housing, veteran-friendly services, and access to healthcare.

############Links###############

🔗 All of my recording/editing equipment can be found here: https://kit.co/Chief_McConnell/john-mcconnell

🔗 @riversidefm - https://riverside.fm/?utm_campaign=campaign_2&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=rewardful&via=john-mcconnell

🔗 https://www.jbgoodwin.com/agent/daniel-schuyler/

🔗 https://wealthwave.com/

🔗

############Books###############

📚

To all the brave men and women out there still protecting our freedom 🇺🇸 🫡 Thank you for your service!

some links may result in commissions for the site

Livestream #5 - Military Retirement and Transition w/ Misty Moreno Mar 27, 2024

Show notes

Live Q&A, Veteran info about jobs, transitioning from the military, mindset, and more. Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://streamyard.com/pal/d/4998128083271680 Talking about some of the other Veteran based youtube channels out there and chatting with Misty Moreno: https://www.linkedin.com/in/misty-moreno/ about Veteran things @Astrokeofluck @VeteransInfoTap @TheCivDiv @CombatCraig @veterannexus @DeptVetAffairs @the_bureaucrat @Jodywithawhy @CliffWagner @SelfMadeMillennial

LiveStream #4 - Military Retirement Q&A Mar 20, 2024

Show notes

Here are the links to what we talked about in the live stream

-VA sets new goal of housing 41,000 veterans in 2024

https://www.navytimes.com/veterans/2024/03/14/va-sets-new-goal-of-housing-41000-veterans-this-year/

- @ACTNowEducation - was our top pick!!

- @NPowerOrg

-Onward2Opportunity - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkg0U_D9yQ0-8h9wUOBEJcA

- Perdue University Northwest - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUDyKoLShm-5peUuHQ0O9RA

-9 Places Transitioning Veterans Can Get Industry Certifications for Free in 2024

https://www.military.com/veteran-jobs/9-places-transitioning-veterans-can-get-industry-certifications-free-2024.html

-Top 10 Tips on Transitioning into the Civilian Job Market

https://www.military.com/veteran-jobs/career-advice/top-10-tips-on-transitioning-into-the-civilian-job-market.html

-Upcoming career fairs:

-March 19 - Online - https://my.recruitmilitary.com/events/national-virtual-career-fair-for-veterans-march-19-2024

-More upcoming career fairs

https://my.recruitmilitary.com/events/schedule?fbclid=IwAR07tcivMxY02OigPMnabJCfxPuZGmracTsqE1cJFuT8AotTtdfzsKjx4Jw

-Service2Success Virtual career fair

https://events.zoom.us/ev/ApkutZYG_7pFxwr_e-galLSXKnCcNiW_I_HtkEhjfBIATUOni2_j~ArKyJ0yzMVawz-ys4K4sKr5kYGgRe7P0-6dMXgbl27WD_wKYuirE4QLqRQ

Livestream #3 - Military Retirement Q&A Mar 16, 2024

Show notes

Livestream Q&A #2 - Military Retirement and Transition AMA Mar 06, 2024

Show notes

We talk about a Navy officer's world record attempt in long-distance running. Guests Jerome Dingle and Justin Murphy share experiences, covering mental health, career transitions, and retirement planning. The conversation includes financial preparedness, securing a house loan, and understanding job application authorities like VRA and VEOA. The speakers emphasize smooth transitions, private sector opportunities, VA healthcare benefits, and address concerns about GI Bill rule changes during Women's History Month.

Takeaways:

Join the military retirement group for community support and subscribe for valuable information.

Consider financial implications, state taxes, and retirement programs when transitioning.

Plan retirement early, assess finances, and set personal goals for a smooth transition.

Secure a house loan discreetly during transition, avoiding early disclosure of retirement plans.

Prioritize mental health; therapy is preventive maintenance for the mind.

Find fulfilling hobbies in retirement; understand job application authorities like VRA and VEOA.

Retirement decisions hinge on financial considerations and a desire for decision-making roles.

Private sector offers diverse opportunities for veterans pursuing personal goals.

Stay informed about GI Bill rule changes, ask questions during retirement classes.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:44 Join Military Retirement Group

01:29 Importance of Subscribing

04:01 Navy Officer's Record Run

06:06 Guests: Jerome Dingle, Justin Murphy

09:38 Transitioning to Civilian Life

11:31 Buying Back Military Time

13:24 Benefits and Insurance

15:22 Work-Life Balance

19:39 Therapy and Counseling

25:35 Addressing Transition Fears

29:35 Personality Types and Careers

33:03 Financial Preparedness

35:58 Challenges in Civilian Life

38:23 Securing House Loans

39:50 Retirement Lifestyle

41:31 Mental Health Care

45:22 Mental Health Analogies

49:52 Resources for Support

50:49 Meaningful Retirement Activities

56:19 Real Estate Hobby

01:04:31 Job Application Authorities

01:09:07 Private Sector Opportunities

01:12:00 Pursuing Personal Goals

01:23:05 VA Healthcare Benefits

01:25:11 Engineering Program for Veterans

01:27:58 GI Bill Rule Change Concerns

01:34:09 Recognition: Women's History Month

01:39:15 Advice for TAP's Retirement Class

Military Retirement Q&A: Live every Sunday at Noon EST #001 Feb 28, 2024

Show notes

Join us every Sunday at Noon EST (0900 PST, 1800 CET) live streaming and answering your military retirement and transition questions and concerns. You can join the discussion in our private facebook.com/groups/themilitaryretirementgroup/ Summary The conversation covers various resources and support available for veterans, including free business classes and certifications through organizations like Warrior Rising and Coursera. The importance of networking and tapping into personal and professional networks is emphasized, along with tips for creating an effective resume. The challenges and realities of transitioning from the military to the corporate sector are discussed, highlighting the need for adaptability and openness to new possibilities. The conversation also addresses the potential for discouragement during the job search process and the importance of having backup plans and engaging in activities that bring fulfillment. The conversation covers topics such as the job search and taking a gamble, renting vs. buying a home, finding purpose and filling the void after leaving the military, and increasing VA disability rating. In this conversation, the hosts discuss various aspects of transitioning from the military to civilian life. They cover finding community and support stateside, choosing a location near a military base, joining groups and organizations, transitioning from a high-stress environment, embracing a new career and starting over, learning and asking questions in a civilian job, exploring different career paths, continuing service with the State Department, and using available tools and resources. Takeaways Don't be discouraged during the job search and be willing to take a gamble on yourself. When deciding whether to rent or buy a home, consider factors such as location, job opportunities, and financial stability. Finding purpose and filling the void after leaving the military is crucial for mental well-being. Veterans can petition the VA to increase their disability rating and seek assistance from veterans advocacy groups. Having a sense of purpose and meaningful activities is essential for a fulfilling post-military life. Look for veteran groups and organizations near your location to find community and support. Consider living near a military base for job opportunities and a sense of camaraderie. Join groups and organizations related to your interests to meet like-minded individuals. Transitioning from a high-stress environment may require adjusting to a new work-life balance. Embrace starting over in a new career and be open to learning and asking questions. Explore different career paths and consider options like the State Department for continued service. Use available tools and resources, such as networking and research, to navigate the transition process. 00:00 Introduction and Resources for Veterans 02:46 Free Business Classes for Veterans 06:03 Accessing Coursera for Certifications 07:19 Additional Resources and Support for Veterans 09:15 Transitioning from the Military to the Corporate Sector 11:40 Networking and Resume Tips 14:19 Personal Experiences and Advice 27:00 Importance of Networking and Tapping into Resources 32:41 Dealing with Discouragement and Having Backup Plans 36:04 The Job Search and Taking a Gamble 43:47 Renting vs. Buying a Home 52:59 Finding Purpose and Filling the Void 59:02 Increasing VA Disability Rating 01:05:45 The Importance of Having a Purpose 01:10:58 Finding Community and Support Stateside 01:12:31 Choosing a Location Near a Military Base 01:13:56 Joining Groups and Organizations 01:16:39 Transitioning from a High-Stress Environment 01:18:04 Embracing a New Career and Starting Over 01:19:11 Learning and Asking Questions in a Civilian Job 01:22:17 Exploring Different Career Paths 01:31:18 Continuing Service with the State Department 01:39:17 Using Available Tools and Resources

military spouses fearlessly and successfully transition with their service member Feb 21, 2024

Show notes

How to: go back to school, find employment, continue education and training - as a military spouse. You can learn more about https://HireHeroesUSA.org here. 🫡 and https://www.radiatesuccessconsulting.com/ here. #########LINKS######### 🔗 VA - https://va.gov 🔗 Coursera - https://coursera.com 🔗 Onward to Opportunity- https://ivmf.syracuse.edu/programs/career-training/ 🔗 Act Now Education- https://actnoweducation.org/ 🔗 Hiring Our Heroes - https://www.hiringourheroes.org/ 🔗 Linkedin Premium for military - https://socialimpact.linkedin.com/programs/veterans/premiumform 🔗 Linkedin Learning - https://learning.linkedin.com/cx/get-started 🔗 All of my recording/editing equipment can be found here: https://kit.co/Chief_McConnell/john-mcconnell 🔗 @riversidefm software used to record this episode - https://riverside.fm/?utm_campaign=campaign_2&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=rewardful&via=john-mcconnell ######################### In this conversation, Erika Urena from Hire Heroes USA discusses the challenges faced by military spouses during the transition process and the importance of supporting them. She highlights the gaps in employment and lack of confidence as major hurdles for military spouses. Erika emphasizes the need for military spouses to not settle for any job and to believe in their qualifications. She also provides valuable information on certifications, education, and resources available for military spouses, including Coursera, Onward to Opportunity, and LinkedIn. Erika encourages military spouses to start preparing early, network, and consider remote job opportunities. She also mentions the importance of mentors and sponsors in navigating the transition process. The conversation covers various topics related to military spouses and their transition to civilian life. It touches on the challenges of finding affordable childcare and the lack of sponsorship for military members transitioning out of active duty. The importance of IT skills and creating projects to build a portfolio is emphasized. The idea of interning to gain experience is discussed, as well as the considerations for choosing Tri-care providers. Arica shares information about her consulting business, Radiate Success Consulting. The conversation concludes with a discussion on donating to Hire Heroes USA and a Super Bowl prediction. Takeaways Military spouses face challenges such as gaps in employment and lack of confidence during the transition process. Certifications and education programs like Coursera and Onward to Opportunity provide valuable opportunities for military spouses. LinkedIn is a powerful platform for military spouses to build a professional network and showcase their skills and qualifications. Preparation steps for military spouses include researching job opportunities at the next duty station, creating a budget, and networking with other military spouses. Mentors and sponsors play a crucial role in supporting military spouses during the transition process. Childcare for military spouses can be expensive and have long waiting lists. Developing IT skills and creating projects can lead to job opportunities or starting a business. Consider interning to gain on-the-job training and experience. When choosing Tri-care providers, consider factors such as proximity to military facilities and copays. Radiate Success Consulting offers resources and programs for military spouses and veterans. Donating to organizations like Hire Heroes USA can support their efforts in helping military spouses and veterans. Super Bowl prediction: Chiefs. 🏈 To all the brave men and women out there still protecting our freedom 🇺🇸 🫡 Thank you for your service! some links may result in commissions for the site

Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) Timeline Explained - S3E7 Feb 14, 2024

Show notes

This episode discusses the process of receiving VA disability payments after retirement. The conversation covers topics such as utilizing the DAV for VA claims, submitting a BDD claim, scheduling medical appointments, checking the VA claim status, receiving VA disability payments, logging in to VA.gov, using VA mobile apps, storing important documents, prioritizing oneself during transition, filling out VA claim forms, and seeking assistance from VSOs. The hosts emphasize the importance of prioritizing oneself during the transition process and recommend reaching out to veteran service organizations for guidance and support.

Takeaways

Utilize the DAV or other veteran service organizations to navigate the VA claim process.

Submit a BDD claim to expedite the VA rating process before retirement.

Schedule medical appointments within the designated timeframe to stay within the BDD claim timeline. Check the VA claim status regularly and communicate with the VA for updates.

Store important documents digitally for easy access and use VA mobile apps for additional resources. Prioritize oneself during the transition process and seek assistance from VSOs for guidance and support.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and VA Disability Payment

02:16 Utilizing the DAV for VA Claim

03:44 Submitting the BDD Claim

04:41 Scheduling Medical Appointments

06:04 Retirement and Checking VA Claim Status

07:30 Receiving VA Disability Payment

08:30 Storing Important Documents

12:17 Checking VA Disability Rating

13:38 Logging in to VA.gov

16:13 VA Mobile Apps

19:45 Importance of Document Storage

23:03 Prioritizing Yourself during Transition

27:25 Filling Out VA Claim Forms

31:46 Assistance from VSOs

39:12 Community Resources and Conclusion

Links:

🔗 https://va.gov

🔗 https://id.me

🔗 https://mobile.va.gov/appstore

🔗 https://www.google.com/drive/

🔗 https://www.vba.va.gov/pubs/forms/vba-21-526ez-are.pdf

🔗 https://www.dav.org/

🔗 The Military Retirement Group Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/981767756191573/

Thanks to my recording platform of choice:

@riversidefm #riversidefm for their amazing software https://riverside.fm/?utm_campaign=campaign_2&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=rewardful&via=john-mcconnell

All of my recording/editing equipment can be found here: https://kit.co/Chief_McConnell/john-mcconnell

some links may result in commissions for the site

To all the brave men and women out there still protecting our freedom 🇺🇸 🫡 Thank you for your service!

The benefits of documenting and reflecting on ideas for personal development and decision-making Feb 07, 2024

Show notes

This conversation explores the challenges of transitioning from the military and finding purpose in civilian life. It delves into the difficulty of discovering a new career path and the importance of self-learning and personal certification. The therapeutic benefits of journaling are discussed, along with the value of consistency in journaling practice. The conversation also touches on the use of multiple notebooks and journals for different purposes. The power of AI assistance, specifically Chat GPT, is highlighted, as well as the benefits of documenting ideas and inventions. In this conversation, John McConnell and Victor de la Flor discuss the importance of journaling and documenting life experiences. They explore the value of capturing fleeting moments and the impact of conversations on personal growth. They also delve into the significance of Da Vinci's notebooks and the power of online learning. The conversation highlights the accessibility of information and the benefits of video journals. Overall, the discussion emphasizes the benefits of documenting and reflecting on one's experiences for personal development and decision-making.

Takeaways

Journaling is a valuable practice for capturing ideas, thoughts, and experiences.

Fleeting moments and ideas can easily be forgotten if not recorded.

Da Vinci's notebooks serve as a testament to the importance of documenting ideas and observations.

Access to information through technology provides opportunities for learning and personal growth.

Documenting life experiences and creating video journals can serve as a valuable resource for personal reflection and sharing knowledge.

Chapters

00:00 The Challenges of Transitioning and Finding Purpose

03:00 The Difficulty of Finding a New Career Path

06:00 The Value of Self-Learning and Personal Certification

09:00 The Difference Between Certification and Experience

13:00 The Therapeutic Benefits of Journaling

18:00 The Importance of Consistency in Journaling

24:00 The Use of Multiple Notebooks and Journals

28:00 The Power of Chat GPT and AI Assistance

33:00 The Benefits of Documenting Ideas and Inventions

45:03 The Importance of Journaling

47:25 Capturing Fleeting Moments

48:23 Da Vinci's Notebooks

49:48 The Value of Written History

51:16 Access to Information

53:10 The Power of Online Learning

55:22 The Impact of Conversations

57:26 Documenting Life Experiences

To all the brave men and women out there still protecting our freedom 🇺🇸 🫡 Thank you for your service!

Links:

🔗

Books:

📚

Thanks to my recording platform of choice:

@riversidefm #riversidefm for their amazing software https://riverside.fm/?utm_campaign=campaign_2&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=rewardful&via=john-mcconnell

All of my recording/editing equipment can be found here: https://kit.co/Chief_McConnell/john-mcconnell

some links may result in commissions for the site

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