Summary

In this episode of Veteran Success Stories, host Will Yeske speaks with Carey Kight, co-founder of Veteran Made Productions. They discuss Kerry's journey from military service to the film and advertising industry, emphasizing the importance of mindset, teamwork, and the value of every role in the military.

Carey shares insights on transitioning to civilian life, the significance of exploring various career paths, and the lessons learned along the way. The conversation highlights the need for veterans to integrate into society while leveraging their unique experiences and skills.

Resources

Veteran Made Productions

Takeaways

The importance of mindset in overcoming challenges.

Every job in the military contributes to the larger mission.

Transitioning veterans should explore various career paths.

Building relationships is key in both military and civilian life.

Veterans can bring unique skills to the civilian workforce.

Encouragement is more valuable than advice for veterans.

The film industry mirrors military structure and teamwork.

Continuous learning and adaptation are essential for success.

Veterans should integrate into society while maintaining community connections.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to VeteranMaid Productions

05:58 The Genesis of the Podcast

08:57 Childhood and Early Influences

11:43 Transitioning to Military Service

15:05 The Journey Through Air Force Training

18:02 Facing Challenges and Setbacks

20:51 Finding Purpose in Service

23:52 Lessons from Family and Personal Growth

29:05 Embracing Failure and Mindset Shift

32:04 Finding Value in Teamwork and Competitiveness

33:59 Experiences in the Air Force: Deployments and Growth

39:51 Transitioning to Civilian Life: Education and Film

43:32 The Journey into Advertising and Creative Work

52:09 Leadership Lessons from Military to Film Industry

57:18 Navigating Career Aspirations and Setbacks

01:00:00 Adapting to Change: The Impact of COVID-19

01:02:57 Building Relationships and Seizing Opportunities

01:05:58 The Power of Podcasting for Personal Growth

01:12:47 Encouragement for Transitioning Veterans

01:23:56 Introduction to Veteran Success Stories

01:25:19 Spotlight on Carrie Kite and Veteran Made Productions

01:26:04 Veteran Made Music Video - "Not An Operator"

Summary

In this conversation, Jonathan Severs from Hire Heroes USA discusses the organization's mission to provide career coaching and support to veterans, including those facing homelessness. He shares his personal journey from military service to becoming a career coach, emphasizing the importance of stability, local resources, and networking in the transition process.

The discussion highlights the impact of career coaching on veterans' success and the need for continued support beyond initial programs like TAPS. In this conversation, Johnathan Severs shares his experiences and insights on helping veterans transition into civilian careers.

He discusses the importance of networking, mentorship, and leveraging platforms like LinkedIn. The conversation also touches on the role of AI in job searching and the complexities of VA claims. Severs emphasizes the value of personal connections and offers practical advice for those transitioning from military to civilian life.

Resources

Hire Heroes USA

Takeaways

Career coaching is essential for veterans transitioning to civilian life.

Housing stability is crucial for effective job seeking.

Many homeless veterans are not registered with the VA, limiting their access to resources.

The transition from military to civilian life can be overwhelming without proper support.

Networking and local resources play a significant role in job placement.

Career coaching should focus on individual needs and goals.

Success stories from Hire Heroes USA demonstrate the effectiveness of their programs.

Veterans often need guidance on navigating VA benefits and resources.

Building relationships with clients fosters long-term success and support.

The nonprofit sector offers fulfilling opportunities for those passionate about helping others. The transition process can be fast if approached correctly.

Networking is crucial for job seekers, especially veterans.

LinkedIn is an essential tool for building a professional brand.

AI can significantly aid in resume writing and job searching.

Understanding VA claims is vital for veterans seeking benefits.

Personal connections can lead to job opportunities.

Mentorship can provide valuable guidance during transitions.

Don't overthink your resume; it's a living document.

Every interaction can be viewed as an interview opportunity.

Continuous learning and upskilling are important for career growth.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Hire Heroes USA and Career Coaching

05:06 Addressing Homeless Veterans and Employment Solutions

09:16 Johnathan's Military Background and Transition Experience

15:09 The Role of Career Coaching in Veteran Success

23:15 The Importance of Local Resources and Networking

33:20 Success Stories and Impact of Hire Heroes USA

40:20 Navigating Career Transitions for Veterans

43:29 The Importance of Networking and Mentorship

46:39 Leveraging LinkedIn for Job Seekers

49:41 The Role of AI in Job Searching

52:51 Understanding VA Claims and Benefits

56:48 The Value of Personal Connections

01:06:37 Advice for Transitioning Service Members

01:13:30 Introduction to Veteran Success Story and Hire Heroes USA

01:15:52 The Importance of Community Support for Veterans

Summary

In this episode of Veteran's Success Story, Patrick McNamara shares his journey from a 22-year military career, including time in Delta Force, to finding purpose in civilian life. He discusses the importance of basic skills, his experiences during the Cold War, and the challenges of transitioning to life after the military.

McNamara emphasizes the need for self-sufficiency and personal development, while also reflecting on the camaraderie and lessons learned throughout his military service.

In this conversation, Pat McNamara discusses the rapid devolution of humanity, emphasizing the loss of primal instincts and situational awareness due to technology. He shares his journey of overcoming personal adversity, including a difficult marriage and financial struggles, and highlights the importance of resilience and community support.

McNamara also reflects on the nature of true evil in the world and offers practical advice for personal safety and mental well-being.

Resources

TMACS INC

University of Badassery

Sentinel Foundation

Invader Coffee

Takeaways

The military instills a sense of urgency and precision.

Transitioning to civilian life can be challenging for veterans.

Basic skills are essential for personal development.

The importance of camaraderie in the military.

Self-sufficiency is key to a healthy lifestyle.

Military training prepares individuals for high-pressure situations.

Experiences in Cold War operations shaped McNamara's perspective.

The significance of adapting skills for civilian use.

Gardening and self-sufficiency can lead to better health.

Maintaining a connection to one's inner child is important. We are distancing ourselves from our primal instincts.

Situational awareness is crucial for personal safety.

Many people are oblivious to their surroundings.

Overcoming adversity requires resilience and determination.

Finding love can bring stability and happiness.

Crisis can lead to personal rebirth and growth.

Community support is vital during tough times.

True evil exists and often goes unnoticed.

Strong individuals are less likely to be targeted by predators.

Stress management is key to maintaining health and happiness.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Patrick McNamara

05:13 The Importance of Genuine Connection

07:37 Exploring the University of Badassery

09:59 The Inner Child and Military Experience

12:04 Inspiration Behind a Military Career

15:51 The Journey Through Special Forces Selection

21:22 Cold War Operations and Unique Experiences

28:23 Transitioning After the Wall Came Down

31:32 The Importance of Homegrown Food

36:41 Building Community and Neighborly Bonds

40:42 Awareness and Vigilance in Modern Society

47:35 Overcoming Adversity and Personal Growth

58:11 The Exhausting Routine of Teaching

01:00:43 Coronacation: A Year of Rebirth

01:04:10 Innovations and Opportunities During Lockdown

01:06:08 Giving Back: Supporting Local Communities

01:08:56 Addressing the Dark Reality of Human Trafficking

01:12:48 Strength and Confidence as a Defense

01:18:51 Situational Awareness in Public Spaces

01:23:41 Advice for Navigating Today's Challenges

01:27:23 Episode Roll Up & Outro