• #70 From Cooking to Scotch to #BobbyFlay : Following Your Passion, Diversity, and Inclusion
    Aug 16 2024

    Eric Dominijanni discusses his military career and transition out of the service, his motivation for joining the military, his experiences in the Marine Corps, and the challenges he faced during his transition. Find Eric and his Scotch brand https://www.fiorscotch.com/


    He emphasizes the importance of finding purpose and staying busy after leaving the military, as well as maintaining connections with fellow service members. Dominijanni also highlights the need for leaders to use their staff effectively and to consider the diverse backgrounds and beliefs of their team members. During his time in the military, Eric formed strong bonds with his fellow Marines and developed leadership skills. He shares stories of his experiences, including being invited to stay with his translator from Iraq and being welcomed by his translator's wife. Eric emphasized that while he is grateful for the recognition, he doesn't consider himself a hero, but rather someone who did the right thing. He also discussed his passion for cooking and how it led him to start his own scotch company, Fior. With the guidance of his business partner, Eric navigated the challenges of starting a business and found success. In this final part of the conversation, Eric discusses the challenges of working with civilian employees compared to service members. He emphasizes the importance of clear communication and setting expectations. John also introduces the SkillBridge program, which allows military service members to apprentice with a company during their last six months of active duty. Eric expresses interest in the program and discusses his desire to have more veterans and minorities involved in his business. He also shares his passion for his Scotch brand and the satisfaction he feels when seeing it in restaurants. The conversation concludes with Eric encouraging retirees to pursue their passions and find fulfillment in their post-military careers.


    00:00 Motivations for Joining the Military

    05:58 Camaraderie and Challenges in the Marine Corps

    23:53 Transitioning Out of the Military

    37:26 Reconnecting and Making Memories

    43:02 The Impact of Leadership and Relationships

    48:05 - Robert Luna Journey

    49:51 Reflecting on the Past and Giving Advice

    54:49 How I filleted Bobby Flay at 49 Palms

    56:06 Pursuing Passion and Finding Fulfillment

    01:00:07 Starting a Business: Mentorship and Risk-Taking

    01:04:44 Transitioning from the military to entrepreneurship

    01:07:05 Communication expectations with employees

    01:13:45 Importance of diversity in the workplace

    01:18:59 Following your passion and creating opportunities

    01:25:34 Memorable moments and achievements

    01:31:05 Appreciating the complexity of Scotch

    01:33:43 Personal preference for dark red wines

    01:37:01 Further exploration of the SkillBridge program


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

    🔗 My exact equipment used to record this podcast - https://amzn.to/3X30pWf

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


    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

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    1 hr and 45 mins
  • #69 Fearless Financial Freedom with @firesocialworker
    Aug 9 2024

    John McConnell discusses the importance of expanding the military retirement community and the need for more resources and information. https://militaryretirementpodcast.com/resources


    Joey Laswell, a financial social worker, joins the conversation and they discuss the importance of personalized financial counseling and the role of financial therapy in addressing the behavioral side of personal finance. The integration of AI into financial management is a topic of interest. AI can be a strategic tool to help with finances, but there are ethical concerns. The potential for AI in personal finance is still emerging, but it could be used to manage finances better. AI has the potential to provide personalized financial breakdowns and plans. However, there are limitations and privacy concerns that need to be addressed. Having a financial cushion is important during transitions, and managing debt and building an emergency fund can be done simultaneously. Finding one's purpose and passion post-military is crucial for a successful transition. In this conversation, John McConnell and his guest discuss the importance of military content creators and the need for more veteran-produced content to reach a wider audience. They emphasize the value of transparency and open discussions about topics like mental health and substance abuse. They also highlight the importance of giving veterans a voice and creating spaces for dialogue and interaction. The conversation then shifts to the VR&E program, with both speakers sharing their positive experiences and encouraging veterans to explore this resource for education and career support. They discuss the application process, the role of counselors, and the potential benefits of the program. Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of supporting and empowering veterans through various platforms and programs.


    00:00 Introduction and Book Update

    04:41 Expanding the Military Retirement Community

    07:04 Introduction of Joey Laswell

    11:10 The Role of Personalized Financial Counseling

    18:48 Addressing Behavioral Aspects of Personal Finance through Financial Therapy

    41:40 Integration of AI into Financial Management

    52:46 The Importance of a Financial Cushion during Transition

    59:26 Managing Debt and Building an Emergency Fund

    01:13:29 The Psychological Aspects of Financial Planning and Finding Purpose

    01:23:21 The Impact of Military Content Creators

    01:26:11 The Importance of Transparency and Open Discussions

    01:30:58 Maximizing the Benefits of the VR&E Program

    01:34:57 Opportunities for Education and Career Development

    01:57:59 The Power of Support in the Military Community

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    2 hrs and 4 mins
  • #68 David Grant’s 30-Year Army Journey, EFMP, writing a book
    Aug 2 2024

    Colonel (RET) David Grant, former Army SFL Director, who just hung up his boots after 30 years in the Army talks about his transition and a novel he has published post military service. https://amzn.to/4fqoHR9 - What Are We Going To Do With Tyrone Jr.?


    As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. These earnings directly support the channel.


    We're diving into his journey, the highs and lows, and the valuable lessons he learned along the way. Whether you're just starting your military career, approaching retirement, or reflecting on your service, there’s something here for everyone!


    0:00 - Introduction and Welcome

    1:15 - Meet Colonel (RET) David Grant former SFL Director

    1:41 - How David Decided to Join the Military

    3:34 - Military Life: Expectations vs. Reality

    5:53 - The Military Family and Support System

    7:06 - Wrapping Up 30 Years of Service

    9:12 - The Transition Out: Conversations and Planning

    12:50 - First Weeks After Retirement and the BDD Program

    16:31 - Navigating VA Claims

    20:09 - Reflecting on Service and Transition Insights

    24:26 - Understanding differences between TAP and Soldier for Life

    31:11 - The Importance of Personal Branding and Networking

    34:40 - Support from Soldier for Life for Veterans

    39:37 - Financial Prep for Your Transition

    46:47 - Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways


    ############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

    🔗 Marines for Life - https://usmc-mccs.org

    🔗 David's Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-grant-dba/

    🔗 EFMP - https://www.militaryonesource.mil/special-needs/efmp/

    🔗 David's Bookcase - https://davidsbookcase.com/


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

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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • #67 - essential financial planning tips and discover valuable resources like the VR&E program
    Jul 26 2024

    Tune in for expert guidance and support from military veterans who have successfully navigated the journey themselves. https://militaryretirementpodcast.com/resources Join John and Victor in this insightful podcast episode as they explore the essential steps for a smooth military retirement transition. Covering personal stories, financial planning tips, and practical advice, they provide valuable insights on maximizing TSP contributions, managing debt, and utilizing the VR&E program. Learn how to declutter and embrace minimalism, discover key resources like MillCon Money 2024, and get answers to listener questions about career planning post-retirement. Timestamps:00:00 - Intro01:00 - John and Victor introduce the topic of military retirement and what listeners can expect in this episode.Personal Stories and Experiences03:37 - a story about the hectic week of moving and settling into a new home.06:20 - the challenges of dealing with accumulated stuff and the minimalist rule he follows.09:15 - donating old military gear and the quirks of thrift shops on military bases.Financial Advice and Strategies15:00 - the importance of decluttering and selling unused items before PCS moves.18:25 - financial planning, maxing out TSP contributions, and living simply.22:50 - How John and his wife managed their finances by living on one income and saving the other.Listener Questions and Answers28:40 - a listener's question about managing debt and financial planning three years before retirement.35:00 - Discussing the VR&E program, its benefits, and how to apply.40:45 - insights on finding and utilizing labor market information for career planning post-retirement.Community Engagement and Resources47:20 - Shoutout to the @FIREsocialworker and tips on engaging with military communities.50:00 - Information about MillCon Money 2024 and its importance for military personnel.55:30 - Closing remarks############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 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

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    1 hr and 43 mins
  • EP#66 - The VA swapped my SSN and I waited 13 years for my VA Claim w/ Lisa Benson
    Jul 18 2024

    Lisa Benson, an Army veteran, shares her experiences and insights on transitioning out of the military and the challenges veterans face. Find out about Lisa and what she is doing for Veterans at https://debelladeball.com/

    She discusses the importance of supporting veterans and helping them thrive, not just survive. Lisa also highlights the struggles of dealing with PTSD and the gaps in the support system for veterans. Her journey of self-discovery and determination to help others forms the core of the conversation. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including journaling, mental health, medication, mentorship, education, personal branding, and life planning. Lisa shares her personal experiences and insights, offering valuable advice for transitioning from military to civilian life and finding fulfillment. The discussion also delves into the impact of technology on younger generations and the evolving choices available to them. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including personal branding, marketing, business strategies, and mental health support for veterans. Lisa Benson shares insights on personal branding, influencer marketing, and the importance of authenticity. She also discusses her work with veterans, business strategies, and the significance of documenting medical records. The conversation emphasizes the value of community support and resources for veterans.

    Soundbites:

    "You're going to go through the cycles of grief and loss.""The significance of documenting medical records and seeking mental health support for veterans transitioning out of the military."

    Timestamps:

    00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Conversation

    02:59 Joining the Military: Financial Struggles and Decision-Making

    08:09 Expectations vs. Reality of Military Life

    12:55 Transitioning Out: VA Claims and Support System

    25:03 Supporting Veterans and Family Life Challenges

    31:53 Coping Strategies and Self-Discovery

    35:51 Navigating Medication and Mental Health

    43:54 The Role of Mentorship in Personal and Professional Development

    50:01 Crafting Your Personal Brand for Success

    57:33 Life Planning and Finding Fulfillment

    01:03:00 The Impact of Technology on Younger Generations and Career Choices

    01:06:45 Evolving Retirement Benefits and Career Transitions

    01:09:32 Influencer Marketing Realities and Misconceptions

    01:12:12 Supporting Veterans: Documentation, Mental Health, and Community ############ 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

    ############ Books ############### 📚 10X is better than 2X - https://amzn.to/4d5D8bd 📚 Can Hurt Me - Master Your Mind and Defy the Odds - https://amzn.to/4cKfyBf To all the brave men and women out there still protecting our freedom 🇺🇸 🫡 Thank you for your service! * links may result in commissions for the site and as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

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    1 hr and 37 mins
  • Life After Military Retirement #62
    Jul 10 2024

    Today we discuss how life is going for us after we exited the military. Including updates that may affect veterans, and an update with our previous guest, Robert Luna, while he hikes across America. FDA Vote for stage 3 clinical trials for MDMA - https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20240620-fda-advisors-voted-against-mdma-therapy-researchers-are-still-fighting-for-it How to do great things - by Paul Graham - https://www.paulgraham.com/greatwork.html?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email Happy 80th anniversary to the GI Bill - https://x.com/vavetbenefits/status/1804495828075118907?s=46&t=IPAUC3j1peNNIgzyyU5NRw VR&E education benefits comparison - https://www.va.gov/resources/compare-va-education-benefits/ MDMA Video we showed in the stream - https://click.fourhourmail.com/d0u95d0kws0h4922xgb3tmxr5544fl/dpheh0h0v3dr3ehm/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cueW91dHViZS5jb20vd2F0Y2g_dj04SzVzSnVUYlF2WQ== @timferriss thanks for pushing the boundaries on PTSD medical treatment. You can find out everything about Tim at https://tim.blog

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    1 hr and 31 mins
  • #61 USMC Advice after 30 years (retire at 20 years)
    Jul 5 2024

    In this engaging episode of the Military Retirement Podcast, hosts John McConnell and Victor De La Flor sit down with retired Marine Corps E-9, Wayne Terronez. Find Wayne on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wayne-terronez-16879174/


    Wayne shares his unique insights into the transition from military to civilian life, discussing the challenges and strategies for a successful transition. He emphasizes the importance of mental health, the benefits of holistic approaches to wellness, and the value of proper life insurance planning. Wayne's candid discussion offers valuable advice for both active duty members nearing retirement and veterans navigating their post-military careers. Don't miss this episode filled with practical tips, personal stories, and actionable advice for a smoother transition to civilian life.


    Chapter List with Timestamps:


    00:00 Introduction and Purpose - Wayne Terronez introduces himself and his mission to help service members transition.

    00:34 Morning and Evening Routines - Wayne discusses his routines in the military vs. civilian life, focusing on mental health.

    02:26 Importance of Mental Health - The lack of focus on mental health in the military and Wayne's personal health journey.

    06:42 Experiences at Wounded Warrior Regiment - Wayne's treatment for PTSD and the holistic approach to recovery.

    12:54 Journaling and Its Benefits - Discussion on the power of journaling and setting goals.

    17:09 Most and Least Enjoyable Aspects of Retirement - Wayne shares his experiences and insights after leaving the service.

    20:34 Entrepreneurial Ventures Post-Retirement - Wayne talks about starting a nonprofit and a frozen yogurt truck.

    24:41 Family and Military Service - Wayne discusses his son's interest in joining the Marine Corps.

    26:52 Initial Motivation to Join the Marine Corps - Wayne's early influences and decision to enlist.

    31:53 TRS/TAP Process and VA Claims - Wayne's experience with the Transition Readiness Seminar and his VA claims process.

    34:21 Post-Military Activities and Yoga - Wayne's focus on yoga, mindfulness, and holistic health.

    38:52 Impact of Military Service on Personal Life - Physical and mental toll of military service and the need for better fitness programs.

    43:32 Civilian Sector and Leadership - Challenges of leadership and change in civilian jobs.

    50:12 TRS and Mental Transition - Suggestions for improving the Transition Readiness Seminar.

    1:13:55 Mentorship and Giving Back - Wayne's role as a mentor and his thoughts on helping others transition.

    1:26:23 Final Thoughts and Key Messages - Wayne's final advice and message to the audience.


    Books mentioned:


    Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill - https://www.amazon.com/Think-Grow-Rich-Landmark-Bestseller/dp/1585424331

    Relentless by Tim Grover - https://www.amazon.com/Relentless-Unstoppable-Tim-S-Grover/dp/1476714207

    48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene - https://www.amazon.com/48-Laws-Power-Robert-Greene/dp/0140280197

    Tribe by Sebastian Junger - https://www.amazon.com/Tribe-Homecoming-Belonging-Sebastian-Junger/dp/1455566381


    ############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


    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

    2JKn4T9sOoUFRkj2t8BI

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    1 hr and 29 mins
  • Saving Veterans Lives through involvement
    Jun 26 2024

    In this conversation, John, Victor and Janet discuss various topics including retirement ceremonies, education programs for veterans, and the Veterans Treatment Program. Janet shares her experience in the military and her transition to civilian life, as well as her current work as a mentor in the Veterans Treatment Program. They also discuss the benefits of volunteering and finding purpose after retirement. The conversation discusses the Veterans Treatment Court program and the impact it has on veterans who are struggling with substance abuse and mental health issues. The program provides a second chance for veterans to receive treatment instead of facing jail time or fines. The mentors in the program play a crucial role in supporting and guiding the veterans towards success. The conversation also touches on the challenges veterans face in accessing VA benefits and healthcare services. Additionally, there is a mention of a streamlined process for getting VA disability claims done in one day at certain VA clinics. In this final part of the conversation, We discuss Janet's experience as a life coach and mentor, the importance of self-reflection and finding one's passion after transitioning out of the military, and the value of isolation with intentionality. We also touch on the upcoming release of our ebook, the Bottom Line Up Front, and the importance of joining the military retirement group. The conversation ends with well wishes for Father's Day and a reminder to make the most of the holiday.


    Timestamps:

    0:00 - Introduction and Welcome

    2:40 - Military Retirement and Transition

    4:46 - Educational Pursuits Post-Retirement

    7:09 - VR&E Program Overview

    9:28 - Personal Experience with VR&E

    14:21 - Impact of VR&E on Veterans

    18:51 - Role of Education and Mentorship

    21:31 - Challenges with VA Benefits and Claims

    23:56 - Introduction of Guest - Janet Ross

    26:16 - Janet Ross's Military Experience

    30:24 - Veterans Treatment Program

    32:50 - Role of Mentorship in Veterans Treatment Program

    35:18 - Success Stories and Challenges

    42:21 - Personal Impact and Volunteer Work

    50:14 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://streamyard.com/pal/d/4998128083271680

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    1 hr and 29 mins