This episode of 'From Boots to Suits' features a heartfelt conversation about the journey of veterans transitioning to civilian life. The hosts discuss the importance of community support, share personal stories of struggle and redemption, and highlight the work of the San Antonio Coalition for Veterans and Families. The guest, Tony Fuentes, shares his experiences as a Vietnam veteran and his path to recovery, emphasizing the significance of faith, purpose, and helping others in the veteran community.

takeaways

• Transitioning from military to civilian life is a continuous journey.
• Community support is crucial for veterans in need.
• Personal stories of struggle can inspire others to seek help.
• Finding purpose after service is essential for mental health.
• The San Antonio Coalition for Veterans and Families provides immediate assistance.
• Faith plays a significant role in recovery and healing.
• Veterans often feel isolated; sharing experiences can help.
• It's important to respond quickly to veterans in crisis.
• Building a network of support can enhance resources available to veterans.
• Helping others can lead to personal healing and fulfillment.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to the Journey of Transitioning Veterans

01:47
Doc's Story: A Vietnam Veteran's Journey

11:43
Finding Faith and Purpose After Struggles

19:41
Leadership and the San Antonio Coalition for Veterans

25:18
Innovative Support for Veterans in Crisis

31:19
Bridging the Gap: Community Support Initiatives

34:43
Fundraising Efforts: Making a Difference

38:36
Personal Journeys: Finding Purpose and Healing

42:46
Faith and Service: A Higher Calling

45:15
Connecting Those in Need: Resources and Support

51:07
Engaging the Community: Volunteering and Donations

veterans, transition, support, community, recovery, purpose, San Antonio, coalition, mental health, faith

Summary

This episode discusses the ongoing challenges veterans face when transitioning to civilian life, emphasizing the importance of support systems and resources available through nonprofits like Silver Sage. The conversation highlights various programs aimed at providing financial assistance, mental health support, and housing solutions for veterans, while also addressing the barriers they encounter in accessing these services. The hosts and guest Art Crawford share insights on the critical role of community outreach and the need for immediate assistance to prevent homelessness and improve the quality of life for veterans.

Takeaways

Transitioning from military to civilian life is a lifelong journey.
Finding identity and purpose after service is crucial.
Nonprofits play a vital role in supporting veterans.
Immediate assistance can prevent homelessness and financial crises.
Transportation issues significantly impact veterans' access to resources.
Mental health and substance abuse are prevalent issues among veterans.
Community outreach is essential for connecting veterans with resources.
Financial assistance programs can help veterans get back on their feet.
Housing instability is a major concern for many veterans.
Collaboration among organizations can enhance support for veterans.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Life After the Military
02:47 The Role of Silver Sage in Supporting Veterans
05:40 Understanding Available Resources for Veterans
08:19 Navigating Financial Assistance for Veterans
11:06 Emergency Assistance and Quick Support
14:08 Challenges in Accessing Housing and Treatment
16:48 The Impact of Financial Strain on Veterans' Lives
21:46 The Silent Battle of Veterans
24:29 Navigating Support Systems and Resources
27:49 Demographics and Challenges in Bandera County
31:40 Transportation and Access to Services
35:57 Self-Care in Nonprofit Work
40:29 Community Outreach and Building Relationships
45:15 Adapting to New Challenges During COVID-19
47:55 Expanding Community Support Services
53:05 Navigating Grant Challenges for Veterans
57:43 The Importance of Meals on Wheels
59:40 Building a Resource Center for the Community
01:05:21 How to Support Local Initiatives

Keywords

veterans, transition, nonprofit, support, resources, financial assistance, mental health, housing, community, outreach

Summary

In this episode, John Gaona, Glenn Jr, and Rudy Skultety discuss the complex journey of transitioning from military to civilian life. They explore the challenges faced during the disability rating process, the importance of utilizing available resources, and the significance of networking. The conversation highlights the expectations versus reality in job offers, the lessons learned from job searching, and the difficulties of competing in the job market. They also touch on coping with stress, building a support network, and finding fulfillment after military service, emphasizing the need for preparation and realistic expectations during the transition.

Takeaways

Transitioning from military to civilian life can be complex.
The disability rating process can take time and cause stress.
Utilizing resources like DAV can significantly help veterans.
Networking is crucial for finding job opportunities.
Expectations for job offers may not align with reality.
It's important to learn from job searching experiences.
The job market can be competitive for veterans.
Building a support network is essential during transition.
Finding fulfillment after military service is a journey.
Preparation and realistic expectations are key to a successful transition.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life
03:04 Rudy's Military Journey and Retirement Experience
05:56 Navigating the Hiring Our Heroes Program
09:12 Leadership Transition: Military vs. Civilian
11:59 Coping with Unrealistic Expectations Post-Military
14:49 The Challenge of Finding Fulfillment in Civilian Jobs
18:09 Adjusting to Civilian Work Culture
20:58 Reflections on Career Preparation and Education
23:51 Financial Realities and Health Care Challenges
27:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts on Transitioning
45:09 The Stress of Job Searching
50:50 The Importance of Networking
54:00 Navigating Transition and Identity Crisis
01:02:46 Finding Contentment in Career
01:10:44 Preparing for Transition from Military to Civilian Life
01:18:42 2.mp4

Keywords

military transition, veterans, disability rating, job search, networking, resources for veterans, career expectations, support network, fulfillment after military, hiring our heroes

Summary

In this episode, John Gaona interviews Joe Jeffrey, a retired Army veteran with 21 years of service, who shares his journey of transitioning from military to civilian life. Joe discusses his military career, the challenges he faced as a career counselor, and the importance of programs like SkillBridge. He emphasizes the need for veterans to network, understand the job market, and manage their salary expectations while navigating their new civilian roles. Joe also highlights the significance of work-life balance and offers practical advice for service members preparing to leave the military.

Takeaways

Transitioning from military to civilian life is complex.
Career counseling plays a crucial role in helping soldiers.
SkillBridge provides valuable internship opportunities for service members.
Networking is essential for finding job opportunities.
Understanding the job market is key to a successful transition.
Salary expectations may differ significantly from military pay.
Work-life balance is important in civilian jobs.
Veterans should be open to entry-level positions to gain experience.
Community support can ease the transition process.
Researching benefits and resources is vital for veterans.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Military Transition
01:04 Joe Jeffrey's Military Journey
03:09 The Role of a Career Counselor
05:08 Challenges in Transitioning Soldiers
09:07 SkillBridge: A Pathway to Civilian Life
12:59 Adjusting to Civilian Life
16:29 Building a Supportive Network
22:05 Navigating SkillBridge Opportunities
30:05 Navigating the Transition: Job Market Realities
33:58 The Importance of Research in Career Moves
36:26 Salary Expectations vs. Reality
42:23 Work-Life Balance: Understanding the Trade-offs
43:37 Networking and Building Connections
46:51 The Reality of Being a Number in the Workforce
48:38 Leaf Home: A Veteran-Friendly Workplace

Summary

In this episode, John Gaona discusses the challenges and strategies for veterans transitioning from military to civilian life, focusing on education, job market research, resume writing, and interview techniques. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the job market, crafting a civilian-friendly resume, leveraging AI tools, and networking effectively. The conversation also highlights the significance of preparing for interviews and the need for a structured plan during the transition process.

Takeaways

Veterans can start school at non-traditional universities almost every month.
Researching job markets is crucial for successful transitions.
Crafting a civilian-friendly resume is essential for job applications.
Networking can significantly enhance job search opportunities.
Understanding the recruitment process helps in tailoring applications.
AI tools can assist in optimizing resumes for job descriptions.
Interviewing is a two-way street; candidates should assess fit.
Quantifying achievements on resumes makes them stand out.
A structured plan for the transition can lead to success.
Continuous learning and adaptation are key in the civilian job market.

Chapters

00:00 Navigating Education Benefits for Veterans
01:33 The Transition from Military to Civilian Life
03:59 Understanding Job Markets and Research
05:08 Crafting a Civilian-Friendly Resume
06:19 The Reality of Job Applications and Recruiter Insights
09:16 The Importance of Skills and Qualifications
12:10 Overcoming Misconceptions as a Veteran
14:55 The Role of Recruiters in the Hiring Process
28:38 Quantifying Your Experience
34:07 Leveraging AI for Job Applications
35:32 Building Your Network on LinkedIn
38:54 Researching Your Job Market
42:45 Structuring Your Resume Effectively
49:17 Interview Techniques and Strategies

In this heartfelt episode of From Boots 2 Suits, Glenn Jr. opens up about his deeply personal journey from military service to civilian life. From boot camp in 1999 to a devastating back injury that altered his career, Glenn shares how he faced the struggles of transitioning out of the Navy, battled physical and mental health challenges, and ultimately found purpose and healing through faith, family, and fitness.

Join hosts John Gaona and Glenn Jr. as they delve into the realities of leaving the military, losing the sense of brotherhood, and rediscovering purpose in a civilian world that often feels alien. Packed with raw emotions, real-life lessons, and actionable insights, this episode is a must-listen for veterans, spouses, and anyone navigating life after service.

🔑 Topics covered:

• Overcoming injuries and mental health struggles
• The importance of finding purpose and building a support system
• Recognizing and tackling self-medication and destructive habits
• The transformative power of faith, family, and community

🎙 Tune in for inspiration, practical advice, and a shared sense of community as we navigate the transition from *boots to suits*. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe!

👉 [Visit our website for workshops and merch](https://www.fromboots2suits.com).
All proceeds support our mission to provide resources for veterans and their families.

In this inaugural episode of *"From Boots to Suits: A Life After the Military,"* hosts John, a former paratrooper with the 82nd Airborne and Army recruiter, and Glenn Jr. dive into the heart of transitioning from military service to civilian life. They share the raw, unfiltered stories of their own struggles, triumphs, and the lessons learned along the way.

John reflects on the challenges he faced when leaving the military—the financial stress, the identity shift, and the battle to find meaningful work in a civilian world that didn’t seem to value his military experience. Glenn opens up about the demons he confronted, from PTSD to self-medicating with alcohol, and how he ultimately found his way to sobriety and a new sense of purpose.

Together, they explore the deep systemic gaps in how veterans are prepared for civilian life and the toll those gaps take on mental health, finances, and relationships. Through honest conversation and personal anecdotes, they discuss the importance of vulnerability, connection, and the power of community in overcoming these obstacles.

This episode serves as a call to action for veterans: to share their stories, support each other, and break the silence around the challenges of life after service. It’s a heartfelt reminder that no one has to face these battles alone and that your story truly matters.

From Boots to Suits: A Life After the Military"is more than a podcast it’s a mission to inspire, uplift, and create a space for veterans to find belonging and purpose.

🎙️ Welcome to "From Boots to Suits: A Life After the Military," your go-to podcast for navigating the journey from military service to a successful civilian career. Hosted by John, a former paratrooper with the 82nd Airborne Division and army recruiter, this podcast dives deep into the unique challenges and triumphs veterans face during this significant life transition.

In each episode, we explore:

Personal Stories and Experiences: Gain insights from veterans who have successfully transitioned, as they share their journeys and lessons learned.
Career Development and Networking: Learn how to translate military skills into civilian roles, build professional connections, and leverage platforms like LinkedIn.
Navigating Corporate Culture: Understand the dynamics of the corporate world and how to adapt your military leadership and teamwork skills.
Addressing Setbacks and Building Resilience: Discover strategies to handle career setbacks with resilience and a positive mindset.
Disability Claims and Benefits: Get expert advice on navigating VA disability claims and benefit processes.
Work-Life Balance and Mental Health: Explore strategies for maintaining mental well-being and a healthy work-life balance.

Join our community of veterans as we empower each other to succeed in every new venture. Whether you're just starting your transition or looking to advance your civilian career, "From Boots to Suits" is here to guide and support you every step of the way. Subscribe now and embark on this transformative journey with us! 🥾👔 #Veterans #MilitaryTransition #CivilianSuccess #FromBootsToSuits #army #navy #military #marines #airforce