VET S.O.S. Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Transforming Veteran Support: Soldiers' Angels Programs with Chris Chun Apr 03, 2023

Show notes

In this heartfelt episode of VET S.O.S., Shawn and Mark sit down with Chris Chun, Vice President of Programs at Soldiers' Angels, to explore how this extraordinary nonprofit organization is making a tangible difference in the lives of veterans, service members, and their families.
Chris, a second-generation American and veteran, shares his inspiring journey from serving in the military to dedicating his life to helping others through extensive volunteer work and leadership roles in nonprofit organizations. Now at Soldiers' Angels, Chris oversees programs that provide crucial support to veterans, ensuring they receive the care and assistance they deserve.
With an impressive 96% efficiency rate, Soldiers' Angels ensures that 96 cents of every dollar goes directly to its programs, which include monthly food distributions, hygiene kits, transportation assistance, and initiatives like the Adopt a Family program and the Holiday Stocking Program. In 2021 alone, the organization supported over 982,141 service members, veterans, and their families.
Chris dives deep into Soldiers' Angels’ impactful programs:
- Monthly Food Distributions: Providing 75 pounds of food to over 200 veterans and families in six U.S. cities.
- Coffee and Donuts: Bringing companionship and support to veterans at VA facilities.
- Adopt a Family: Connecting families in need with donors to provide holiday cheer.
- Card to a Veteran: Sending cards of encouragement and gratitude to veterans across the country.
- Adopt a Deployed Service Member: Sending care packages and letters to deployed service members to boost morale.
- Housing Pack Program: Supplying essentials to homeless veterans moving into permanent housing.
- Treats for Troops and Holiday Stocking Program: Offering treats, stockings, and holiday joy to deployed service members and veterans.
- Chris emphasizes the importance of volunteering, sharing stories of how volunteers contribute to Soldiers' Angels' mission and its incredible community impact. He also highlights how businesses can get involved, whether through volunteer hours, donations, or sponsorships.
🔗 Key Topics Covered:
- Chris Chun’s journey from military service to nonprofit leadership
- The wide array of programs and services Soldiers' Angels offers
- How Soldiers' Angels maintains its 96% efficiency rate
- The importance of corporate and community volunteering
- Specific programs like Adopt a Family and Coffee and Donuts
🎯 Action Items:
- Adopt a Hero through the Adopt a Family program – 251 heroes are waiting for your support this holiday season!
- Volunteer Your Time: Soldiers' Angels welcomes individuals and businesses to support their mission through volunteering.
- Spread the Word: Share Soldiers' Angels’ story and programs to inspire others to get involved.
📢 Support Soldiers' Angels:
Visit their website to learn more, volunteer, or donate: https://soldiersangels.org/
💡 About Soldiers' Angels:
Founded in 2003, Soldiers' Angels is a nonprofit dedicated to providing aid and comfort to active-duty service members, veterans, and their families. Their mission is simple: "May No Soldier Go Unloved."
🎙️ Listen Now:
Hear Chris’s inspiring story and discover how Soldiers' Angels is changing lives. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to the VET S.O.S. Podcast for more impactful stories and veteran resources.
#VETSOS #Veterans #SoldiersAngels #MilitaryFamilies #AdoptAFamily #Volunteer #SupportOurTroops #VeteranSupport #MilitaryNonprofit #HolidayGiving #CommunityImpact

Master Your Military Transition: Expert Tips from Brian Niswander on VET S.O.S. Apr 03, 2023

Show notes

Welcome to another impactful episode of VET S.O.S.! This week, Shawn and Mark are joined by Brian Niswander, a 27-year Air Force veteran and the founder of Military Transition.org, an organization dedicated to using data analytics to transform the way veterans transition from military to civilian life.
Brian dives into the creation of Military-Transition.org and its mission to provide service members, veterans, and military spouses with actionable, data-driven resources. Through thousands of interviews, surveys, and real-world research, his team has developed tools to make the transition process more accessible and less overwhelming. Learn how their interactive dashboards deliver tailored insights based on individual profiles and how their free guidebooks simplify key lessons for navigating the transition journey.
Key Highlights from the Episode:
- Brian’s Journey: From Air Force Intelligence Officer to corporate leader at Procter & Gamble, and ultimately, to helping veterans achieve success.
- Challenges Veterans Face: Addressing loss of purpose and identity, self-reflection, and the difficulty of translating military skills into civilian terms.
- The Role of Data Analytics: How Military-Transition.org empowers veterans to navigate both the open and hidden job markets with clarity and confidence.
- Essential Resources: A deep dive into the three guidebooks already published:
- Truths About the Military Transition – Key lessons every service member needs from day one.
- Winning the Employment Game: Veteran Edition – Understanding the rules of the job market and how to win.
- Discovering the Challenges – Overcoming obstacles faced during the transition.
- Coming Soon: Mistakes – Insights on common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
- Success Stories: How Military-Transition.org’s resources, supported by organizations like USAA, have already impacted thousands of veterans.
Actionable Takeaways for Veterans:
- Start your transition planning early—don’t wait until it’s too late.
- Leverage free resources like the guidebooks and interactive dashboards on Military-Transition.org.
- Build your network, explore mentorship programs like American Corporate Partners and COMMIT Foundation, and stay proactive in your job search.
- Engage in self-reflection to identify your goals, passions, and skills for a successful civilian career.
🎯 Take Action Today:
✅ Download Free Resources: Visit https://military-transition.org/ for guidebooks, tools, and insights.
✅ Share the Mission: Spread the word about Military-Transition.org to your fellow veterans and service members.
✅ Join a Mentorship Program: Tap into expert guidance with programs like ACP or COMMIT Foundation.
This episode is packed with inspiration, expert advice, and practical tips for veterans navigating one of the most challenging phases of their lives. Don’t miss it!
📢 Follow VET S.O.S. for More:
Stay tuned for more episodes featuring incredible guests, impactful stories, and resources tailored for the military community. Together, we can make the transition smoother for every veteran.
#VETSOS #MilitaryTransition #VeteranSupport #Veterans #CareerSuccess #Networking #DataDrivenInsights #Mentorship #VeteranResources #TransitionAssistance #MilitarySpouseSupport #MilitaryLife

From Navy Veteran to Networking Powerhouse: Will Gibson's VETS on T.A.P. Success Mar 27, 2023

Show notes

In this must-listen episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, Shawn and Mark are joined by Will Gibson, a 22-year Navy veteran and the visionary founder of VETS on T.A.P. Will shares the incredible journey of how he built VETS on T.A.P., a thriving networking organization that has grown to over 4,000 members and hosts an impressive 138 events annually.
Inspired by the Veterans Beer Club in San Diego, Will founded VETS on T.A.P. in Jacksonville to address the unique needs of transitioning veterans. The organization has since evolved into a community-focused powerhouse offering networking opportunities, educational sessions, and hiring events tailored to empower veterans and military families.
In this episode, Will dives deep into:
- The Origin Story: How his post-military transition and medical challenges sparked the idea for VETS on T.A.P.
- Overcoming Challenges: The hurdles of starting and growing an organization while staying true to community needs.
- Event Formats: An inside look at their inclusive and welcoming events, from casual coffee meetups to speaker series and professional networking mixers.
- Success Stories: Heartwarming examples, including helping a homeless veteran secure employment and another veteran landing a $65,000 job with a $15,000 relocation bonus.
- Future Growth: Plans for expansion to other cities, challenges of franchising, and an open call for listeners to bring VETS on T.A.P. events to their communities.
- Holistic Transition Support: Why veterans need to focus on both professional and personal transitions to thrive in civilian life.
- Will also shares his philosophy on creating safe, inclusive spaces for veterans, particularly those dealing with PTSD or social anxiety, and why relationship-building is more important than event size. His passion for helping veterans achieve their goals shines through as he discusses the rewarding impact of VETS on T.A.P.
Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with Will Gibson, a true leader in the veteran community! Whether you're transitioning out of the military, supporting a loved one, or looking to make a difference, this episode is packed with actionable advice and heartwarming success stories.
Connect with VETS on T.A.P.:
📱 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vetsontap
📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/veterans-united-craft-brewery/vets-on-tap-networking-event/334440040497673/
Subscribe to VET S.O.S.
Like, subscribe, and share this episode to support the veteran community. Join the conversation in the comments below—tell us what resonated with you the most or share your own transition story!
#VETSOS #Veterans #MilitaryTransition #Networking #VETSOnTAP #CareerDevelopment #VeteranSupport #MilitaryCommunity #TransitionSuccess #VeteranResources #PTSDSupport

Empowering Veterans & Military Spouses: Expert Career Transition Advice with Delaina Morse Mar 27, 2023

Show notes

In this insightful episode of VET S.O.S., we welcome Delaina Morse, a dedicated military spouse and veteran transition specialist who has helped over 1,000 veterans take their next steps into the civilian workforce. With over 15 years of experience as a military spouse and a passion for empowering veterans, Delaina shares invaluable advice on how to navigate the often-intimidating world of resumes, interviews, and salary negotiations. 💡 Key Topics Covered in this Episode: 1️⃣ Resume Preparation & Interview Skills: Delaina outlines her proven strategies to help veterans translate military skills into civilian job descriptions and prepare for interviews with confidence. 2️⃣ Salary Negotiation Tips: Learn how to perform market analysis to set realistic salary expectations and why it’s crucial to leave emotions out of negotiations. 3️⃣ Challenges for E5 and Below Veterans: Delaina dives deep into the specific obstacles faced by junior enlisted veterans and shares how they can overcome barriers to job security and benefits. 4️⃣ Grunts Off the Ground Initiative: Discover how Delaina’s program helps ground-side Marines and soldiers transition into rewarding careers in logistics and supply chain management. 5️⃣ Building Confidence in Civilian Interviews: Delaina offers actionable tips to help veterans read the room, adjust responses, and showcase their leadership and problem-solving skills during interviews. 🚀 Actionable Insights for Veterans & Military Spouses: - How to overcome the stigma of “soft skills” and demonstrate their true value to employers. - Why industries like logistics, transportation, and supply chain are ideal for transitioning veterans. - The cultural shift needed in both the civilian sector and military mindset to improve career opportunities for veterans. 🌟 About Delaina Morse: Currently working with Johnson & Johnson, Delaina is passionate about helping veterans secure roles that provide excellent benefits to support their families. Her dedication to bridging the gap between military service and civilian careers is inspiring and impactful. She also emphasizes the importance of LinkedIn for networking and career growth, encouraging veterans and military spouses to reach out to her directly for personalized guidance. 📌 Connect with Delaina: Delaina is eager to support veterans and military spouses! Connect with her on LinkedIn to learn more about her services and the Grunts Off the Ground initiative. - https://www.linkedin.com/in/delainamorse/ 🎧 Don’t Miss Future Episodes! Subscribe to VET S.O.S. for inspiring stories, actionable resources, and expert advice to help veterans, military families, and spouses thrive during their transitions. #VETSOS #Veterans #MilitaryTransition #CareerSupport #VeteranEmployment #LogisticsCareers #MilitarySpouse #SalaryNegotiation #ResumeTips #LinkedInNetworking #MilitaryToCivilian

Jeremy 'Monte' Montgomery on Transition, Networking & Mission 22 Mar 27, 2023

Show notes

Welcome to another inspiring episode of VET S.O.S., where we connect veterans, military spouses, and their families with the resources and insights needed for successful transitions. In this episode, we are honored to host Jeremy "Monte" Montgomery, a 23-year Air Force veteran and Director of Business Development at Fusion Cell, who shares his powerful journey from military service to becoming a leader in veteran and military spouse advocacy.
Monte opens up about the challenges veterans often face during their transitions, emphasizing the importance of genuine networking, leveraging LinkedIn, and embracing programs like SkillBridge. His mission is to ensure no veteran or military spouse is left floundering without support.
He also dives deep into his efforts to create lasting impact through innovative initiatives, including:
🔹 MilCRUIT – A collaborative network of recruiters dedicated to connecting veterans and military spouses with employment opportunities. Monte explains how this initiative creates a lifeline for job seekers by pairing them with professionals who understand the challenges of transitioning to civilian life.
🔹 MilSpouse Summit – Focused on empowering military spouses, this summit is designed to develop an international playbook of resources for spouses and corporate America, helping bridge the gap in hiring and retention for this underserved community.
🔹 Mission 22 – As an ambassador for this vital organization, Monte advocates for reducing veteran suicide rates by promoting community-based healing solutions, including equine therapy, outdoor excursions, and other holistic programs that foster connection and resilience.
Key Takeaways from This Episode:
✔️ Overcoming the biggest transition challenges and finding the right resources.
✔️ The importance of deliberate, consistent networking and optimizing your LinkedIn profile.
✔️ How Skill Bridge programs open doors for transitioning service members.
✔️ Why military spouse employment is crucial and how corporate America can step up.
✔️ Mission 22’s groundbreaking efforts to reduce veteran suicides and improve mental health.
Actionable Insights for Veterans and Military Spouses:
✔️ Build a support system before you transition.
✔️ Be curious, ask questions, and research resources beyond traditional transition programs.
✔️ Leverage platforms like LinkedIn to network and connect with others.
✔️ Tap into innovative programs like Skill Bridge, MilCRUIT, and Mission 22.
📣 Watch now and uncover powerful strategies to navigate the military-to-civilian transition journey. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to support the veteran community!
Connect and Learn More:
🔗 Connect with Jeremy "Monte" Montgomery on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/monte101/
🔗 Explore Fusion Cell’s Initiatives: https://www.fusioncell.com/
🔗 Learn about Mission 22 and their life-changing programs: https://mission22.com/
💬 Have questions or want to share your own transition story? Drop us a comment below!
#VETSOS #VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #Mission22 #SkillBridge #MilitarySpouseSupport #VeteranNetworking #LinkedInTips #MentalHealthAwareness #RecruitingVeterans #MilitaryCommunity

Empowering Veterans: Cedars Sinai’s Commitment to Employment, Support, and Community Impact Mar 27, 2023

Show notes

Discover how Cedars Sinai is leading the charge in veteran employment and community impact in this episode of VET S.O.S. Jennifer Delatte, a dedicated advocate for veterans, shares her impactful role in supporting military personnel transitioning to civilian careers. Gain actionable advice on interview preparation, including handling mock questions, avoiding common mistakes, and presenting your skills effectively to land the job you deserve.
Learn about Cedars Sinai’s unique and robust initiatives designed for veterans, such as Vet Connect, the Veteran Employee Resource Group fostering connection and support among employees. Discover the Veteran Companion Program, an innovative initiative providing compassionate care and companionship for veterans in healthcare settings, ensuring no one feels alone during critical moments.
Explore how Cedars Sinai honors its veteran employees with personalized recognition, including challenge coins, branch flags, and other veteran-specific swag, while offering career-long support to ensure success. With over 300 veterans employed at various levels, Cedars Sinai is a leader in creating meaningful opportunities for military personnel. Jennifer also highlights the organization's incredible $36.5 million contribution to community initiatives, showcasing their dedication to social responsibility and partnerships with organizations like New Directions for Veterans.
This episode dives deep into the broader cultural and organizational benefits of hiring veterans, focusing on their discipline, leadership, and value in the workplace. Jennifer emphasizes the importance of networking, mentorship, and advocacy, sharing her personal journey of overcoming challenges to create meaningful change for veterans.
Don’t miss this inspiring and information-packed conversation filled with valuable takeaways for veterans, employers, and advocates. Contact Jennifer directly to explore job opportunities at Cedars Sinai, get personalized guidance, and learn how you can join their mission to support veterans. Tune in now and be part of the movement to make a lasting difference! Check out Cedars Sinai at: https://www.cedars-sinai.org/home.html
#VETSOS #VeteranSupport #CedarsSinai #VeteranEmployment #MilitaryTransition #InterviewPreparation #VeteranResources #VeteranAdvocacy #VetConnect #CommunityImpact #HireVeterans

LinkedIn Tips, Career Strategies, and Transition Insights with Jennifer Delatte Mar 27, 2023

Show notes

Welcome to Episode 21 of VET S.O.S.! In this insightful episode, Shawn and Mark are joined by Jennifer Delatte, Veteran Program Administrator at Cedars Sinai and a former IT Specialist in the US Army Reserve. Jennifer shares her inspiring journey from overcoming personal challenges to becoming a passionate advocate for veterans and transitioning service members seeking employment.
Jennifer dives deep into the strategies veterans can use to achieve career success after their military service. She highlights the importance of leveraging LinkedIn, tailoring resumes to job descriptions, and utilizing professional development tools like LinkedIn Learning. Jennifer provides actionable advice on crafting impactful resumes, building a strong online presence, and effectively using LinkedIn features such as video messages and the "open to work" indicator to connect with recruiters and employers.
In addition, Jennifer shares her experiences working with US Vets, a program that empowers veterans through peer support, certifications, and networking opportunities. She emphasizes the value of personalized assistance, career fairs, and having a solid support system to facilitate successful career transitions. Her dedication to understanding each veteran's unique journey and goals underscores her commitment to the community.
This episode is packed with practical tips, inspirational stories, and encouragement for veterans navigating career changes. Whether you are a transitioning service member or someone looking to support veterans in their professional journeys, this episode has something for you. Don’t miss part two, where Jennifer will share even more tips and strategies to help veterans achieve their goals!
Key Takeaways:
- The importance of LinkedIn for professional networking and career development.
- Tips on tailoring resumes to align with job descriptions and stand out to recruiters.
- How peer support, certifications, and career fairs can open doors to new opportunities.
- The role of professional development tools like LinkedIn Learning in building new skills.
Connect with Jennifer Delatte:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenn-delatte/
Subscribe, share, and support the veteran community by tuning in to more episodes of VET S.O.S.! Don’t forget to like, comment, and share your thoughts below! #VETSOS #VeteranSupport #CareerTransition #LinkedInTips #NetworkingMatters #veteranemployment #ResumeWriting #ProfessionalDevelopment #CareerSuccess #TransitioningServiceMembers #USVets

Navy SEAL to Advocate: Tim Fedrick on Veteran Support and Transition Resources Mar 20, 2023

Show notes

In this impactful episode of the VET S.O.S. podcast, hosts Shawn and Mark are joined by Tim Fedrick, a former Navy SEAL, veteran advocate, and executive producer of the TV series "Veterans in Transition." With a distinguished military career, including deployments to Ramadi, Fallujah, Baghdad, Haditha, and Al Asad, Tim brings a wealth of experience and insight into the unique challenges veterans face when transitioning to civilian life.
Tim candidly shares his personal journey, emphasizing the importance of having a sufficient “runway” to prepare for transition and tailoring support to individual needs. From navigating VA systems to finding meaningful employment, he explains the critical gaps that veterans encounter and how resources like The Honor Foundation and Blue Water Advisors can help bridge the gap.
The conversation highlights the importance of community, connection, and awareness. Tim discusses the Warriors and Whiskey Club, a group dedicated to bringing veterans and first responders together for camaraderie and support. Whether through events or casual gatherings, the club fosters a sense of belonging and purpose for those navigating life after service.
A key focus of the episode is Tim’s latest endeavor: the TV series "Veterans in Transition." This groundbreaking show is designed to raise awareness of nonprofit organizations and programs making a real difference in veterans’ lives. By spotlighting these organizations, the series aims to educate both the public and the veteran community about the resources available to them.
📌 Key Takeaways from this Episode:
- The Value of Individualized Support: Transition plans are not one-size-fits-all; veterans need tailored strategies to address their unique circumstances.
- Critical Resources: Programs like The Honor Foundation and Blue Water Advisors provide mentorship, career guidance, and tools for success.
- Building Community: The Warriors and Whiskey Club creates a safe space for veterans and first responders to find support and camaraderie.
- Awareness Through Media: "Veterans in Transition" highlights the work of nonprofits and sheds light on the challenges faced by veterans and their families.
📢 Action Items from the Episode:
- Share Tim’s comprehensive spreadsheet of nonprofits and transition programs to help veterans find the resources they need.
- Coordinate with Tim on potential collaborations between VET S.O.S. and "Veterans in Transition."
- Explore opportunities to cross-promote these platforms to amplify awareness and support for the veteran community.
💡 Why Watch This Episode?
If you or someone you know is navigating the complex journey from military to civilian life, this episode is a must-watch. Tim’s insights, combined with actionable advice and an introduction to impactful resources, will leave you inspired and informed about how we can better support our veteran community.
🔗 Learn More:
The Honor Foundation: https://www.honor.org/
Blue Water Advisors: https://www.bluewater-advisors.com/
Warriors and Whiskey Club: https://warriorsandwhiskey.com/?srsltid=AfmBOopZa75eljgNGRt-Hwn8GXfhq-XnM5rpRlb_uqIy5XSVCF49khFb
👍 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay connected with VET S.O.S. and help us spread awareness about resources available to veterans. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those who have served our country.
#VETSOS #VeteranSupport #TransitionPrograms #NavySEAL #VeteransInTransition #WarriorsAndWhiskeyClub #VeteransHelpingVeterans #HonorFoundation #BlueWaterAdvisors #MilitaryTransition #VeteransInTransition #VeteranAdvocacy

Empowering Retired Soldiers: Soldier for Life Mindset, COLA Insights, and Community Engagement Mar 20, 2023

Show notes

In this engaging episode of VET S.O.S., we are joined once again by Mark Overberg, Director of Army Retirement Services, for a deep dive into the critical resources and strategies that support soldiers transitioning from military service to retirement. Mark highlights how retired soldiers continue to play a vital role in the Army's mission, embodying the Soldier for Life mindset to "hire and inspire" in their communities and beyond.
Key Discussion Points:
- Preparing for Retirement: Mark explains the role of Retirement Services Officers stationed at installations, National Guard headquarters, and reserve readiness divisions to assist soldiers in planning their post-retirement journey.
- The "Change of Mission" Newsletter: Learn how this newsletter equips soldiers with the knowledge and tools to stay connected to the Army's mission after retirement.
- Retired Soldiers as Advocates: Discover how retired soldiers can inspire the next generation of service members by educating communities about the military and bridging the gap in public understanding.
- Community Engagement: Mark and Shawn discuss creative ways retired soldiers can engage locally, from attending high school football games to building relationships with educators and community leaders.
- Voluntary Recall in Emergencies: Mark shares insights on how retired medical professionals were recalled to support healthcare efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic and the Army's plans to implement a targeted recall system for specialized skill sets.
- Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA): Explore how COLA helps retired soldiers cope with inflation, including its current rate of 9.1%, and how it impacts benefits like VA disability compensation and Survivor Benefit Plan payments.
- Employment Support through the Soldier for Life Office: Learn about the Office’s mission to connect retired soldiers with job opportunities, reducing unemployment compensation from $515 million to $90 million.
- LinkedIn & Senior Leader Accessibility: Mark emphasizes the importance of senior leaders engaging directly with the retired soldier community through platforms like LinkedIn and attending retiree appreciation events.
🎯 Action Items for Listeners:
1️⃣ Engage with the Soldier for Life Office to discover employment opportunities for veterans and retired soldiers.
2️⃣ Promote the Soldier for Life mindset across all military branches, fostering lifelong connections to service.
3️⃣ Advocate for the development of a targeted recall system to quickly mobilize retired soldiers with specialized skills during emergencies.
4️⃣ Stay informed about cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) to ensure retired soldiers receive appropriate benefits that counteract inflation.
🌟 Why This Episode Matters:
Retirement from military service doesn’t mark the end of a soldier’s mission—it’s a new chapter of lifelong impact and advocacy. Mark Overberg highlights how retired soldiers can inspire communities, support recruiting efforts, and remain invaluable assets to the Army and the nation. Whether you're currently serving, a veteran, or part of the retired soldier community, this episode is packed with actionable insights to empower you on your journey.
📢 Connect with us: https://soldierforlife.army.mil/Retirement
https://myarmybenefits.us.army.mil/Benefit-Library/Federal-Benefits/Retirement-Services-Program
💬 Share your thoughts in the comments below!
🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for updates on future episodes.
#Veterans #SoldierForLife #MilitaryTransition #RetiredSoldiers #RetirementPlanning #COLA #VeteranEmployment #MilitaryCommunity #ArmyRetirement #MilitaryLife #VETSOS

Mastering Army Retirement: Insights from Mark Overberg on Planning, Policies, & Financial Tools Mar 20, 2023

Show notes

In this episode of VET S.O.S., Shawn and Mark sit down with Mark Overberg, Director of Army Retirement Services, to discuss everything you need to know about planning for military retirement. With over 30 years of military experience, Mark provides valuable insights into retirement planning timelines, key policy changes, and the financial tools available to soldiers.
Highlights:
- Retirement Statistics: Only 17% of Army personnel retire—10% of enlisted and 30% of officers. Learn why starting early is crucial for this small percentage who retire each year.
- Planning Timeline: Understand the updated guidance to begin retirement planning 36 months in advance and the importance of participating in the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) early.
- Policy Updates: Discover the new retirement submission policy that allows soldiers to submit their requests 12 to 24 months ahead to avoid PCS disruptions.
- Blended Retirement System (BRS): Explore the mandatory Thrift Savings Plan contributions and what this system means for soldiers now and in the future.
- Financial Tools: Learn how to use the myArmy Benefits website, including the retirement calculator and benefits library, to project your retirement pay and understand your benefits.
Mark also shares practical tips for soldiers and their families, emphasizing early planning, financial counseling, and leveraging available resources to make the retirement transition smoother. This episode is packed with actionable advice for service members and their spouses as they navigate the path to military retirement.
Action Items:
- Start planning your retirement at least 36 months in advance.
- Encourage your spouse to join TAP and retirement seminars to stay informed.
- Visit the myArmy Benefits website to explore its tools and calculate your retirement pay. - https://soldierforlife.army.mil/Retirement
- https://myarmybenefits.us.army.mil/Benefit-Library/Federal-Benefits/Retirement-Services-Program
- Stay updated on new policies and leverage available counseling and guidance to ensure a successful transition.
🔄 Grab the VET S.O.S. lifeline to help navigate your military-to-civilian transition!
Subscribe for more episodes, insights, and resources to support your journey!

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