In this episode, join hosts Nick and John as they share candid insights into the challenges and triumphs of transitioning from military to civilian life. From the frustrating realities of job interviews and government applications to the nuanced art of de-escalation and the pursuit of personal growth, this conversation offers invaluable perspectives for anyone navigating new chapters. Dive deep into discussions on letting go of perfectionism, the power of asking questions, and the enduring importance of being a good human being.

Key Topics with Timestamps

Below are the key discussions from the episode, marked with timestamps for easy navigation:

0:01 Job Interviews and Unexpected Technical Difficulties

6:12 Mastering USAJobs and OPM Website Applications

7:15 Tailoring Resumes for Government Jobs

16:32 Supporting Veteran Well-being Through Creative Arts

19:22 Insights into Government Contracting and SAM.gov

22:42 Civilian Life and Personal Growth: De-escalation Insights

26:29 The Enduring Importance of Being a Good Human Being

38:26 Navigating Content Creation and Personal Channels

41:46 Embracing the "80% Solution" and Letting Go of Perfectionism

58:48 The Value of Asking Questions in a New Role

1:06:20 Connecting with the Military Retirement Community

Books and Resources Discussed

Here is a list of all the organizations, tools, and resources mentioned in this episode, complete with direct links:

USAJobs: The official website for U.S. government job opportunities – https://www.usajobs.gov/

OPM (Office of Personnel Management): Provides guidance on federal employment – https://www.opm.gov/

Creative Arts for Vets: An organization dedicated to providing art supplies and promoting well-being for veterans and service members – https://rural.indiana.edu/focus/arts-culture/creative-arts-for-vets/index.html

@sheenapreneur (Sheena): A resource for learning about government contracting and navigating sam.gov

SAM.gov: The official U.S. government system for contract opportunities – https://sam.gov/

@thegreenlogbook : Vic's YouTube channel, offering valuable content for veterans

Military Retirement Group: A community for military retirees and veterans on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/groups/themilitaryretirementgroup

"The Bottom Line Up Front" Book: Your co-authored book, available for purchase – https://amzn.to/4kFs9ZF

Listen to the Full Episode

Ready to gain valuable insights on navigating post-military life, career transitions, and personal development?

Listen to the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/69ePAEeGIfE

Simplifying VA Disability Claims with https://veteranai.co ⁨@VeteranAiOfficial⁩ In this episode, we sit down with Dennis Spawn, the innovative founder of Veteran AI, to explore how his groundbreaking tool is revolutionizing the often-complex process of VA disability claims. Discover how Veteran AI helps veterans efficiently manage their claims, generate crucial evidence, and navigate the bureaucratic landscape, ultimately aiming to save them time and money. Learn more about Veteran AI and its mission to empower veterans by visiting their official website: veteranai.co.Key Topics with TimestampsBelow are the key discussions from the episode, marked with timestamps to help you easily navigate the conversation:0:49 Personal Updates & Side Projects11:50 Veteran AI Introduction and Functionality13:55 Generating Evidence for VA Claims with AI14:29 Identifying Secondary Claims with Veteran AI16:26 Utilizing DSM-5 and NIH Articles for Claims12:23 Understanding Challenges with VA Claims23:15 The Role of VSOs (Veteran Service Officers) and Veteran AI's Complementary Nature37:23 The Future of Veteran AI37:49 Upcoming Features: Live Customer Service and Voice-to-AI38:31 Collaborating with VSOs and Potential VA Partnerships28:33 Discussion on 38 CFR and AI ToolsBooks and Resources DiscussedHere is a list of all the books, organizations, and tools mentioned in this episode, complete with direct links for your convenience:Veteran AI: The revolutionary tool for VA claims – https://veteranai.co"Freedom" by Sebastian Junger: A powerful book exploring themes of society and the military – https://amzn.to/4lscq1f"Tribe" by Sebastian Junger: Another insightful read from Junger on belonging and combat – https://amzn.to/4lSZ9yADSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition): A critical resource used in mental health diagnosis – https://amzn.to/3IGpeSXNIH (National Institutes of Health) Articles: Publicly available research articles for medical information – https://www.nih.gov/Restrepo Documentary: A compelling documentary by Sebastian Junger and Tim Hetherington – https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1559549/VetArt.org: An organization supporting veteran art communities – https://vetart.orgArmed Services Arts Partnership (ASAP): Empowering veterans through the arts – https://asapasap.org @TheCivDiv most comprehensive channel for Veteran Disability benefitsGoogle NotebookLM: Google's AI-powered research and note-taking tool – https://notebooklm.google/38 CFR (Code of Federal Regulations, Title 38): The body of regulations governing veterans' benefits – https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/chapter-I/part-4Veterans Benefits Reddit: A vibrant online community for discussions and advice on VA benefits – Visit https://www.reddit.com/r/VeteransBenefits/ on Reddit"The Bottom Line Up Front" (Your book): https://amzn.to/4eK6qhHWreaths Across America: Honoring fallen service members – https://www.wreathsacrossamerica.orgMilitary Retirement Group on Facebook: A community for military retirees and veterans – https://www.facebook.com/groups/themilitaryretirementgroup/The Green Logbook (YouTube Channel): A YouTube channel from one of your hosts – Visit The Green Logbook on YouTube @thegreenlogbook As an Amazon affiliate - some links may result in commissions for the site.

This "Funday Sunday" session of the Military Retirement Podcast, hosted by John McConnell, features Vic discussing overseas relocation for military personnel transitioning out of service. They share personal experiences and offer insights into various factors influencing relocation decisions. The episode also announces their new book, "Bottom Line Up Front," aimed at assisting military members with their transition. Key topics include job considerations (GS, NAF, contractor, civilian), financial planning, pre-move exploration using TDY trips, and an in-depth look at government civilian job types overseas. Towards the end, the discussion touches on job application tips and the rapid advancements in AI, emphasizing the need for continuous learning.Important Moments:00:02:15 - Discussing overseas relocation and personal experiences.00:04:00 - Promoting the book "Bottom Line Up Front."00:05:07 - Key topics covered in the book.00:10:24 - Key factors for military relocation: job opportunities, cost of living, and personal finances.00:18:12 - Utilizing TDY trips for relocation scouting.00:20:19 - Job avenues for overseas relocation (GS, NAF, government contracting, civilian).00:21:09 - Renting versus buying in a new location.00:24:22 - Using USAJOBS for government positions.00:26:12 - Understanding overseas GS position caps.00:28:34 - Benefits of NAF vs. GS positions.00:30:08 - NAF positions and quality of life.00:33:14 - Exploring NAF positions on USAJOBS.00:35:50 - The lengthy government hiring process and SOFA agreements.00:37:00 - Base privileges for contractors and retirees.00:38:51 - Advantages of relocating from the states.00:43:08 - Relocation allowance and baggage add-ons.00:45:07 - Resume tips for GS positions.00:47:35 - Civilian success in USAJOBS applications.00:49:19 - Networking and internal hires in government jobs.00:51:24 - Justin Murphy's resume approach.00:53:19 - E-7 knowledge vs. GS-12/13 positions.00:54:50 - Continuous learning and skill development.00:55:59 - The rapid advancement of AI.01:01:20 - Recap of OCONUS retirement and job search.01:05:30 - Personal preference for NAF positions.Books and Resources Mentioned:Bottom Line Up Front: What You Need to Know Before You Leave the Military by John McConnell and Victor De La Flor: https://amzn.to/46hYge8Channel Social Links:Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/981767756191573Relevant Hashtags:#MilitaryRetirement #OverseasRelocation #MilitaryTransition #GovernmentJobs #GSJobs #NAFJobs #MilitaryLife #VeteranLife #RetirementPlanning #OCONUS #MilitaryBenefits #JobSearch #MilitaryPodcast #BottomLineUpFront

This "Funday Sunday" session of the Military Retirement Podcast, hosted by John McConnell, features Vic discussing overseas relocation for military personnel transitioning out of service. They share personal experiences and offer insights into various factors influencing relocation decisions. The episode also announces their new book, "Bottom Line Up Front," aimed at assisting military members with their transition. Key topics include job considerations (GS, NAF, contractor, civilian), financial planning, pre-move exploration using TDY trips, and an in-depth look at government civilian job types overseas. Towards the end, the discussion touches on job application tips and the rapid advancements in AI, emphasizing the need for continuous learning.Important Moments:00:02:15 - Discussing overseas relocation and personal experiences.00:04:00 - Promoting the book "Bottom Line Up Front."00:05:07 - Key topics covered in the book.00:10:24 - Key factors for military relocation: job opportunities, cost of living, and personal finances.00:18:12 - Utilizing TDY trips for relocation scouting.00:20:19 - Job avenues for overseas relocation (GS, NAF, government contracting, civilian).00:21:09 - Renting versus buying in a new location.00:24:22 - Using USAJOBS for government positions.00:26:12 - Understanding overseas GS position caps.00:28:34 - Benefits of NAF vs. GS positions.00:30:08 - NAF positions and quality of life.00:33:14 - Exploring NAF positions on USAJOBS.00:35:50 - The lengthy government hiring process and SOFA agreements.00:37:00 - Base privileges for contractors and retirees.00:38:51 - Advantages of relocating from the states.00:43:08 - Relocation allowance and baggage add-ons.00:45:07 - Resume tips for GS positions.00:47:35 - Civilian success in USAJOBS applications.00:49:19 - Networking and internal hires in government jobs.00:51:24 - Justin Murphy's resume approach.00:53:19 - E-7 knowledge vs. GS-12/13 positions.00:54:50 - Continuous learning and skill development.00:55:59 - The rapid advancement of AI.01:01:20 - Recap of OCONUS retirement and job search.01:05:30 - Personal preference for NAF positions.Books and Resources Mentioned:Bottom Line Up Front: What You Need to Know Before You Leave the Military by John McConnell and Victor De La Flor: https://amzn.to/46hYge8Channel Social Links:Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/981767756191573Relevant Hashtags:#MilitaryRetirement #OverseasRelocation #MilitaryTransition #GovernmentJobs #GSJobs #NAFJobs #MilitaryLife #VeteranLife #RetirementPlanning #OCONUS #MilitaryBenefits #JobSearch #MilitaryPodcast #BottomLineUpFront

Thanking all of you 777 Youtube Subscribers so far!! 🫶🏼🫶🏼 giving some flowers to the Military Influencer Conference folks, BAH increase, much more

📌 Episode Summary

In this heartfelt and motivating episode of the Military Retirement Podcast, hosts John and Vic sit down with Brian Arrington, founder and CEO of Vets2Industry, to explore the mindset shift every service member needs before they transition: Don’t just retire from something — retire to something. Brian shares hard-earned wisdom from his own transition journey, the founding of Vets2Industry, and his mission to connect every veteran and family member to the opportunities, resources, and community they need to thrive. If you’re preparing to separate, retire, or just want to feel re-inspired, this episode is a must-listen.

🔗 Links & Resources

🧭 Vets2Industry — Free resources for veterans and families

📘 Bottom Line Up Front by John McConnell — https://amzn.to/4jUiPky

👥 Military Retirement Facebook Group — https://www.facebook.com/groups/981767756191573

📺 The Green Logbook YouTube Channel — https://youtube.com/@thegreenlogbook

🎧 Military Retirement Podcast — https://youtube.com/@militaryretirementpodcast

🧠 Key Quote

“If you don’t have a mission when you leave, you’ll feel lost. The military gives you structure — so make sure you’re retiring to something that keeps you going.” — Brian Arrington

⏱️ Key Topics & Timestamps

Time Topic

0:00 Opening thoughts: What it means to “retire to something”

0:30 Introducing Brian Arrington and the mission of Vets2Industry

1:20 Brian’s transition story — how he found purpose through service

2:30 Why community and identity vanish after transition — and how to reclaim them

3:30 The importance of having a post-military plan and mission

4:00 Common mistakes service members make when separating

5:00 The story behind Vets2Industry and who it’s for

6:00 Final thoughts: don’t just exit. Build your next chapter.

💬 Key Quote

“I didn't walk away from retirement — I walked towards more choices.”

📌 Key Takeaways

Retirement Isn’t Always the Goal: Not everyone who joins the military does so intending to serve 20 years. And that’s okay.

Build a Plan Based on Your Values: Your future doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. There’s more than one path to a good life.

Ask the Right Questions: Instead of asking “Should I stay for the pension?”, ask “What kind of life do I want to build?”

📕 Bottom Line Up Front Book - https://amzn.to/4kDSRml

👥 Military Retirement Facebook Group — https://www.facebook.com/groups/981767756191573

📺 The Green Logbook YouTube Channel — https://youtube.com/@thegreenlogbook

🎧 Military Retirement Podcast — https://youtube.com/@militaryretirementpodcast

🎙 Episode Summary

In this wide-ranging and deeply insightful conversation, John McConnell hosts David Pere, Marine Corps veteran and founder of Military to Millionaire, to discuss financial readiness, miscommunication stressors, and the practical path to wealth-building for veterans. David shares his journey from buying his first property using a VA loan to leading a nationwide Mastermind for service members and veterans seeking financial independence.

They cover strategies for transitioning from military to civilian life, how to tackle debt, smart approaches to investing in real estate, when refinancing actually makes sense, and why the Midwest may be a top pick for retirees. The episode emphasizes the long-term mindset, accountability, and spending intentionally on experience over things.

🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned

🏠 Military to Millionaire Website:

https://www.frommilitarytomillionaire.com/

📘 The No B.S. Guide to Military Life on Amazon/Audible:

https://amzn.to/3SwfEUz

📅 Military Influencer Conference:

https://militaryinfluencer.com/

📘 Bottom Line Up Front: What You Need to Know Before You Leave the Military by John McConnell and Victor De La Flor:

https://amzn.to/43GInv4

💬 Military Retirement Group on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/981767756191573

🎥 YouTube Channels:

Military Retirement Podcast:

https://youtube.com/@militaryretirementpodcast

The Green Logbook:

https://youtube.com/@thegreenlogbook

From Military to Millionaire:

https://www.youtube.com/@Frommilitarytomillionaire

0:00 Opening quote from Marcus Aurelius

0:30 Introduction to the show & importance of communication

1:55 Miscommunication in military life and personal logistics

4:00 Stress, patience, and humility during transition periods

6:45 Civilian life lacks military’s support systems

8:10 Facebook group for military retirement support

9:10 Military Influencer Conference details

13:15 Introduction of guest: David Pere

15:00 From military service to real estate investor

16:00 Why “get-rich-quick” is a myth and the power of compounding

19:00 Using the VA loan for house-hacking (duplex/4-plex strategy)

23:30 Shifting from scarcity to wealth-building mindset

26:00 Paying off credit card debt vs. investing

30:50 Evaluating ROI of debt payoff vs. investments

35:00 When to invest and building a post-military financial runway

37:00 Budgeting: track spending and cut unnecessary costs

41:00 Spending on experiences vs. stuff (popcorn at home vs. theater)

46:00 Overview of David’s Mastermind and philosophy on money

48:00 Hot topic: Should you refinance your mortgage right now?

53:00 Choose investment strategy that fits your life goals

54:30 David's recommendation: House hacking, investing early

56:00 Signs of market shifts: auto industry as a bellwether

1:02:00 Best low-cost-of-living states for veterans

1:07:00 Missouri as an example of affordable living

1:11:00 Closing thoughts and how to connect with David

📌 Episode Summary

In this in-depth episode of the Military Retirement Podcast, John and Vic sit down with Chief Warrant Officer 4 Joe Michel to demystify the complexities of Reserve and National Guard retirement. They cover critical knowledge gaps around the "gray area," COLA decisions, early retirement age reductions, Tricare, SBP, federal time buyback, and transitioning smoothly into civilian life. This is essential listening for anyone in Compo 2 or 3 (Title 32) preparing for retirement — whether you’re 5 years out or filing paperwork now.

📚 Books Mentioned

The Daily Laws by Robert Greene – https://amzn.to/43UlV2I

The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene – https://amzn.to/43nziZe

The Daily Stoic by Ryan Holiday – https://amzn.to/4dH9Gtz

🔗 Links & Resources

🖥️ Tricare Plans & Benefits: https://tricare.mil

📖 Military Retirement Book: Bottom Line Up Front – https://amzn.to/43GInv4

👥 Military Retirement Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/981767756191573

🎥 The Green Logbook YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@thegreenlogbook

📄 Cola Trap White Paper (by Col. Fowler): [Likely a PDF shared in veteran groups, suggest linking to the podcast or YouTube video explaining it once released]

📊 Military Retirement Calculators: https://militarypay.defense.gov/Calculators

💡 Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) Info: https://militarypay.defense.gov/Benefits/Survivor-Benefit-Program/

0:00 Opening reflection from The Daily Laws and adapting to change

1:18 Book discussion: Robert Greene, Ryan Holiday, and daily meditations

5:04 Transitioning mindsets and habits post-military

6:57 Intro to reserve and National Guard retirement differences

7:58 Deep dive into the "COLA trap" and retirement timing

9:54 Community service and post-retirement volunteerism

13:30 Guest intro: CWO4 Joe Michel and his reserve career

14:50 “Gray area” retirement and understanding eligibility at age 60

17:00 NDAA 2008: Lowering retirement age for certain service

20:00 Missing retirement points and how to fight for credit

23:00 COLA decision: Retired Reserve vs full discharge

26:00 Retirement education gaps in the military

29:00 Need for unit-level retirement SMEs (subject matter experts)

31:00 Preparing for civilian transition: uniform to “Mr.” mindset

34:00 TRS & TAP: Challenges of preparing for civilian life

37:00 Health coverage: Tricare Reserve Select, Tricare for Life, BENEFEDS

43:00 Buying back military time for federal employment

48:00 Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) overview for reservists

50:00 Personal records audits and DD214 accuracy

52:00 Retirement calculators and high-level pay math

58:00 Idea: A Reserve Retirement Masterclass or Webinar

1:03:00 Converting “tribal knowledge” into shared guidance

1:06:00 Meetup ideas and supporting the military retirement community

1:07:20 Closing notes: book promo, shoutouts, and next week’s guest