Transition Drill

In Episode 216 of the Transition Drill Podcast, from the Navajo Nation to the Marine Corps, the battlefields of Iraq and Afghanistan, Marcus Chischilly's story is one of service, sacrifice, and spiritual strength. Marcus shares how his upbringing on Navajo land shaped his discipline, how the values of family and culture led him to join the Marines, and how one split-second in Kajaki, Afghanistan, changed his life forever.He takes us through his journey of recovery after losing both legs and severely injuring his arm, and how he rebuilt his identity through resilience, family, and cultural healing. Marcus reveals what it takes to find purpose again after trauma, and how he continues to lead and mentor other veterans today.This conversation honors the warrior spirit that never fades. It is a powerful look at service beyond the uniform, and the unbreakable will to live with purpose, balance, and pride.The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life.Follow the show and share it with another veteran or first responder who would enjoy this.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulpantani/WEBSITE: https://www.transitiondrillpodcast.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulpantani/SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:https://transitiondrillpodcast.com/home#aboutQUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:paul@transitiondrillpodcast.comSPONSORS:GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15Total Force Plus ConferenceLink: https://totalforceplus.orgPendleton Surf ClubLink: https://pendletonsurfclub.com

Military veterans and first responders prepare for transition with cost knowing, savings, and lasting financial security.In Round 91 of the Tactical Transition Tips on the Transition Drill Podcast, life after service comes with a hidden price tag. Military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and EMS professionals often underestimate the financial shock of transition. In this episode of the Transition Drill Podcast, we uncover the “hidden costs” and break down how to prepare no matter where you are on your timeline. From immediate expenses to building generational wealth, this conversation brings clarity to one of the most overlooked aspects of transition.Tips Covered in This Episode:• Close Range Group (Immediate to 1 year out): The Immediate Cost of Transition – Save what you can, but know the costs of the civilian side so that you can prepare for them.• Medium Range Group (About 5 years out): Create a Transition Buffer Fund – Save at least six months to one year of living expenses to gain leverage and confidence during salary negotiations and job shifts.• Long Range Group (10 years or more out): Establish a Legacy Savings – Automate direct deposits into long-term investments to build generational wealth and prepare your family for life after service.This episode is for Soldiers, Marines, Sailors, Airmen, police, firefighters, EMS professionals, and every first responder preparing for the financial realities of transition.The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life.Get additional resources and join our newsletter via the link in the show notes.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:IG: https://www.instagram.com/paulpantani/WEBSITE: https://www.transitiondrillpodcast.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulpantani/SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:https://transitiondrillpodcast.com/home#aboutQUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:paul@transitiondrillpodcast.comSPONSORS:Total Force Plus ConferenceLink: https://totalforceplus.orgPendleton Surf ClubLink: https://pendletonsurfclub.com

We live in a world filled with noise. Everywhere you turn, people are talking about their next big move. They announce the new business they are “about to” start, the career shift they are “planning,” or the routine they are “going to” follow. The words sound strong, but too often they remain only words.This episode is about cutting through the noise and stepping into action. Talking feels good. It gives a rush of recognition. But that recognition is empty without the discipline of follow through. When words outpace action, credibility fades. People stop believing what you say, and worse, you stop believing yourself.The shift happens when you do more. Actions carry weight. They are measurable. They are remembered. They define your reputation and shape your identity. Every step forward builds momentum, and momentum creates rhythm. That rhythm becomes the hidden engine that moves you toward growth, confidence, and legacy.In this Mindset Debrief, you'll hear how noise drains energy while action builds proof. You'll see how consistency outlasts promises and how every choice you make either strengthens or weakens trust in yourself.This is not about perfection. It is about discipline. About showing up even when it is boring, inconvenient, or unseen. Because in the end, the world will forget what you said. But it will never forget what you did.Talk less. Do more. And let your life be the evidence.Share this episode with someone who could benefit from the information.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:IG: https://www.instagram.com/paulpantani/WEBSITE: https://www.transitiondrillpodcast.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulpantani/SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:https://transitiondrillpodcast.com/home#aboutQUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:paul@transitiondrillpodcast.comSPONSORS:GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15

A powerful story of the hidden costs of service and how first responders and veterans can redefine toughness. In Episode 215 of the Transition Drill Podcast, former Los Angeles Fire Department paramedic and firefighter Morgan Englund shares his path from Hollywood actor to first responder, and ultimately to advocate and musician. Growing up in Santa Monica and the Palisades, Morgan's early life was marked by challenges, independence, and a search for belonging. He found brotherhood in football, pursued acting in New York, and later discovered his true calling in emergency medicine.Morgan takes us inside the reality of paramedic work in Oxnard, the relentless pace of the LAFD, and the moral injuries that shaped his decision to walk away after 14 years of service. He opens up about the cultural pressures inside the firehouse, the hidden cost of toughness, and the epidemic of first responder suicide.Now a songwriter and TEDx speaker, Morgan is redefining toughness and calling for a shift in how veterans and first responders support one another. His story is one of resilience, courage, and the power to create a new mission after service.The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life.Follow the show and share it with another veteran or first responder who would enjoy this.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulpantani/WEBSITE: https://www.transitiondrillpodcast.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulpantani/SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:https://transitiondrillpodcast.com/home#aboutQUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:paul@transitiondrillpodcast.comSPONSORS:GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15Total Force Plus ConferenceLink: https://totalforceplus.orgPendleton Surf ClubLink: https://pendletonsurfclub.com

Veterans and First Responders prepare for life after the uniform with progress, planning, and a clear life philosophy.In Round 90 of the Tactical Transition Tips on the Transition Drill Podcast, the transition from service is coming for all of us. Whether it is right around the corner, a few years away, or still a decade out, preparation is the key. In this episode explore how to stop chasing perfection and instead build progress that carries you forward.You will hear practical, actionable guidance for three different stages of the journey:• Close Range Group (transition immediately to 1 year): Choose Progress Over Perfection — Small deliberate steps beat waiting for flawless timing. Learn how morning resets, information filters, and identity rehearsals create momentum and ease the stress of uncertainty.• Medium Range Group (transition in 5 years): Reverse-Engineer Your Future Self — Map backwards from the person you want to become and make deliberate moves now. From quarterly debriefs to grooming replacements, reputation-building to reverse-mentoring, discover how preparation today makes you a stronger leader now and later.• Long Range Group (transition in 10 years or more): Design Your Life Philosophy, Not Just Your Career — Build a framework that goes beyond tasks and promotions. Reputation, balance, industry awareness, and quarterly self-checks keep you sharp in uniform while laying the foundation for the life waiting afterward.Every step, no matter how small, creates momentum. Transition is not about waiting for the perfect plan. It is about stacking progress that compounds into strength, confidence, and clarity.The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life.Get additional resources and join our newsletter via the link in the show notes.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:IG: https://www.instagram.com/paulpantani/WEBSITE: https://www.transitiondrillpodcast.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulpantani/SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:https://transitiondrillpodcast.com/home#aboutQUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:paul@transitiondrillpodcast.comSPONSORS:GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15Total Force Plus ConferenceLink: https://totalforceplus.orgPendleton Surf ClubLink: https://pendletonsurfclub.com

There's a certain comfort in being sure of yourself. Being certain feels safe, like you've got control of the situation and you already know the answers. But that very comfort can be what holds you back. Growth doesn't come from defending what we already know. It comes from asking questions, staying open, and admitting there is always more to learn.In this episode of The Mindset Debrief, we explore why curiosity is stronger than being certain, and how embracing questions over answers reshapes your life and career. Through the lens of personal accountability and mindful awareness, this conversation challenges you to examine where you've built walls of being sure and how to replace them with doors of possibility.You'll hear how being certain can create ceilings in your life, while curiosity turns setbacks into lessons and relationships into deeper connections. We'll walk through practical habits like journaling with questions, active listening, reframing failure, and experimenting without fear. These are not abstract ideas. They are tools you can put to work today.This is a call to let curiosity guide your growth. To see every conversation as a chance to learn, every challenge as a chance to adapt, and every day as an opportunity to discover something new.If you want to strengthen your mindset, build resilience, and live more intentionally, this episode is for you. Because curiosity isn't just stronger than being certain. It's the path forward.Share this episode with someone who could benefit from the information.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:IG: https://www.instagram.com/paulpantani/WEBSITE: https://www.transitiondrillpodcast.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulpantani/SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:https://transitiondrillpodcast.com/home#aboutQUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:paul@transitiondrillpodcast.comSPONSORS:Trident CoffeeGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://tridentcoffee.comPromo Code: TDP15

In Episode 214 of the Transition Drill Podcast, John Cizin shares his story from hauling hay in the fields of Northern California to carrying the M60 as a Navy SEAL, but first he started as a Corpsman and almost went special operation with the Marine Corps, and later fighting Raised in a family of public servants, and Navy veterans, he entered the Navy as a corpsman and found himself drawn to the challenge of special operations. His path through BUD/S, his role in the SEAL Teams, and his determination to always push for excellence marked him as a quiet professional who never backed down from hard work.When he chose to leave the Navy, John transitioned almost immediately into the fire service, beginning a second career where lives depended on preparation and teamwork. His journey reveals how the lessons of small unit tactics transferred to firehouses and city streets. Yet alongside the triumphs came challenges. Injuries from parachute accidents, the unseen effects of traumatic brain injury, and the weight of PTSD surfaced years later, forcing him to confront both his body and his mind.John speaks candidly about addiction, the toll of trauma, and the turning points that allowed him to rebuild. His experiences highlight the importance of humility, strong networks, and discipline in the face of adversity. For veterans and first responders, his story delivers hard truths and lasting hope.The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life.Follow the show and share it with another veteran or first responder who would enjoy this.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulpantani/WEBSITE: https://www.transitiondrillpodcast.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulpantani/SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:https://transitiondrillpodcast.com/home#aboutQUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:paul@transitiondrillpodcast.comSPONSORS:Trident CoffeeGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://tridentcoffee.comPromo Code: TDP15GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15Total Force Plus ConferenceLink: https://totalforceplus.orgPendleton Surf ClubLink: https://pendletonsurfclub.com

In Round 89 of the Tactical Transition Tips on the Transition Drill Podcast, we address how Ego can protect your identity, but it can also prevent your growth. How pride can hinder a military veteran, police officer, firefighter, or EMS professional during transition. Drawing from real lessons and practical strategies, this discussion highlights how to balance confidence with humility and evolve into the next chapter of life after service.• Close Range Group (transition within the next year): Have a Beginner's Mindset. Approach your new field as a student, not an authority. This mindset opens doors by showing employers you are adaptable and coachable.• Medium Range Group (transition in about five years): Expand Beyond Your Comfort Lane. Take on roles, challenges, or certifications that stretch your skills now. This broadens your career opportunities and makes you more valuable today.• Long Range Group (transition in a decade or more): Master Self-Awareness Early. Build habits of reflection, feedback, and empathy. These practices make you a stronger leader today and prepare you for future success.Whether you served as a soldier, sailor, airman, or Marine, or built your career in law enforcement or as a first responder, the choice is clear. Ego keeps you standing still. Evolution pushes you forward.The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life.Get additional resources and join our newsletter via the link in the show notes.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:IG: https://www.instagram.com/paulpantani/WEBSITE: https://www.transitiondrillpodcast.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulpantani/SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:https://transitiondrillpodcast.com/home#aboutQUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:paul@transitiondrillpodcast.comSPONSORS:Brothers & Arms USAGet 20% off your purchaseLink: https://brothersandarms.comPromo Code: Transition20Trident CoffeeGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://tridentcoffee.comPromo Code: TDP15GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15Total Force Plus ConferenceLink: https://totalforceplus.orgPendleton Surf ClubLink: https://pendletonsurfclub.com

In a world that constantly tells us to want more, it is easy to forget the power of gratitude. Too often we rush into the next demand, the next ambition, the next pursuit, without pausing to notice what is already present. This episode of The Mindset Debrief explores why gratitude is not just a feel-good exercise, but a mindset that can transform how we live, work, and lead.The idea is simple yet profound: be thankful before being demanding. Gratitude is not about lowering ambition or abandoning goals. It is about grounding ambition in awareness. When we start from thankfulness, we see clearly what is worth pursuing and what is only noise. Gratitude sharpens priorities, strengthens relationships, and builds resilience. It changes how we lead others and how we hold ourselves accountable.In this episode, we explore the pause that gratitude creates. We look at how thankfulness deepens trust, prevents entitlement, and fuels growth that lasts. We uncover how living thankful helps prevent burnout and creates presence, the kind of presence that makes people feel valued and remembered.Success built on gratitude looks different. It is not defined by endless comparison or empty achievement. It is measured by clarity, stability, and the ability to be present in the moment while still striving for more. Gratitude does not limit your future. Gratitude multiplies it.If you want to strengthen your mindset, lead with purpose, and grow without losing yourself in the process, this episode will give you the perspective and tools to start now.Share this episode with someone who could benefit from the information.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:IG: https://www.instagram.com/paulpantani/WEBSITE: https://www.transitiondrillpodcast.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulpantani/SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:https://transitiondrillpodcast.com/home#aboutQUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:paul@transitiondrillpodcast.comSPONSORS:Trident CoffeeGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://tridentcoffee.comPromo Code: TDP15

In Episode 213 of the Transition Drill Podcast, Jessica “Jess” Quezada (Episode 86) returns with an unfiltered and powerful story of resilience. A former Marine Corps Sergeant, Jess's military career ended in 2020 with an Administrative Separation. Faced with uncertainty and the loss of identity, she began living in a bus while pursuing a rough vision for LiboRisk, a travel and wellness company for veterans and first responders.In this conversation, Jess shares the real struggles of transition, from the shame of separation to the challenges of building a company from nothing. She explains how LiboRisk grew into a thriving community built on three pillars: adventure, wellness, and cultural immersion. She also discusses the importance of mindfulness, intentionality, and connection as tools for veterans to rediscover resilience and belonging.Jess opens up about her own battles, including sobriety, and her transformative ibogaine treatment. She also recounts her participation in the 2025 Navy SEAL Swim in New York Harbor, part of her year of Misogi challenges.For veterans and first responders, this episode offers encouragement and proof that life after service can be full of growth, adventure, and purpose.The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life.Follow the show and share it with another veteran or first responder who would enjoy this.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulpantani/WEBSITE: https://www.transitiondrillpodcast.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulpantani/SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:https://transitiondrillpodcast.com/home#aboutQUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:paul@transitiondrillpodcast.comSPONSORS:Trident CoffeeGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://tridentcoffee.comPromo Code: TDP15GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15Total Force Plus ConferenceLink: https://totalforceplus.orgPendleton Surf ClubLink: https://pendletonsurfclub.com

Veterans and First Responders master the skills to identify hidden career paths and prepare for a smooth transition into life after service.In Round 88 of the Tactical Transition Tips on the Transition Drill Podcast, we break down strategies to help you sharpen awareness, act early, and position yourself ahead of the crowd, no matter where you are in your career.Opportunities rarely arrive with a spotlight or a clear invitation. For military veterans, police officers, firefighters, EMS providers, and other first responders preparing for life after service, the most valuable doors often open quietly. They appear in passing conversations, side projects, and subtle relationships most people overlook.Transition Groups:• Close Range Group (transitioning now to within one year) → Read Between the Lines Learn how to spot subtle cues, hidden invitations, and quiet leads before they become public, giving you a competitive advantage.• Medium Range Group (transitioning in approximately five years) → Plant Opportunity SeedsDiscover how volunteering strategically, solving problems, and connecting with decision-makers today builds networks and credibility that shape your future transition.• Long Range Group (transitioning in a decade or more) → Learn to See the Future Focus on personal growth, leadership, and professional excellence while preparing quietly for unexpected changes that could arrive sooner than planned.Your next opportunity may not announce itself. Whether you are nearing transition or just starting your career, knowing where to look — and when to act — can change your path.The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life.Get additional resources and join our newsletter via the link in the show notes.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:IG: https://www.instagram.com/paulpantani/WEBSITE: https://www.transitiondrillpodcast.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulpantani/SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:https://transitiondrillpodcast.com/home#aboutQUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:paul@transitiondrillpodcast.comSPONSORS:GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15Total Force Plus ConferenceLink: https://totalforceplus.orgPendleton Surf ClubLink: https://pendletonsurfclub.com

We often look at someone else's success and assume they were lucky, born talented, or in the right place at the right time. The truth is very different. Success rarely happens by accident. It is built, brick by brick, through the small choices we make each day and the habits we practice when no one is watching.In this episode, we dig into the real foundation of personal and professional growth: your habits. We explore why motivation fades, how identity drives lasting change, and why systems matter more than goals. You will learn why consistent action beats short bursts of effort, how small habits compound into big results, and why preparation positions you for opportunities others miss.This is not about chasing shortcuts or waiting for the perfect moment. It is about building daily rituals that align with the person you want to become. Through practical insights and actionable strategies, you will leave with the tools to design habits that create momentum and build the life you want.Success is not about luck. It is about showing up, choosing discipline over distraction, and staying consistent even when progress feels invisible. If you are ready to take ownership of your future, it starts today; one habit at a time.Share this episode with someone who could benefit from the information.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:IG: https://www.instagram.com/paulpantani/WEBSITE: https://www.transitiondrillpodcast.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulpantani/SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:https://transitiondrillpodcast.com/home#aboutQUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:paul@transitiondrillpodcast.comSPONSORS:Trident CoffeeGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://tridentcoffee.comPromo Code: TDP15

In Episode 212 of the Transition Drill Podcast, retired Navy SEAL Commander Gordon Schmidt shares his incredible journey of resilience, leadership, and transformation. From his early life navigating constant moves as part of his father's career, to discovering rowing at Lehigh University, though he went to play baseball, earning his way into the U.S. Naval Academy, and ultimately achieving his dream of becoming a Navy SEAL, Gordon's story is a powerful reminder that perseverance shapes success.Gordon opens up about the challenges of starting his career as a Surface Warfare Officer (SWO) before securing his path to BUD/S and enduring the mental and physical trials required to earn the coveted SEAL Trident. He reflects on the combat deployments that followed, the brotherhood forged in high-stakes environments, and the lessons learned from leadership under pressure.We also explore Gordon's transition out of the SEAL community and into civilian life, where he has found purpose in coaching, mentoring, and leadership development. Gordon applies the same principles of teamwork, preparation, and adaptability to help others perform at their highest level. Gordon also shares the struggles of leaving the Navy and the animosity he felt when told you can find your dream job, but he had his dream job and it was time to leave it. For veterans, first responders, and anyone facing change, Gordon offers actionable advice on navigating uncertainty, building resilience, and finding identity beyond the uniform. His story will inspire you to embrace discomfort, prepare intentionally, and lead with humility.Listen now to learn from Gordon's journey and discover how to carry the lessons of service into life after the military.The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life.Follow the show and share it with another veteran or first responder who would enjoy this.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulpantani/WEBSITE: https://www.transitiondrillpodcast.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulpantani/SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:https://transitiondrillpodcast.com/home#aboutQUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:paul@transitiondrillpodcast.comSPONSORS:Brothers & Arms USAGet 20% off your purchaseLink: https://brothersandarms.comPromo Code: Transition20Trident CoffeeGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://tridentcoffee.comPromo Code: TDP15GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15Total Force Plus ConferenceLink: https://totalforceplus.orgPendleton Surf ClubLink: https://pendletonsurfclub.com

Transition can feel unpredictable, but your ability to stay flexible under pressure determines how you adapt when plans change. In Round 87 of the Tactical Transition Tips on the Transition Drill Podcast, we break down strategies for military veterans, law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMS professionals, and first responders to take control of uncertainty and prepare for life after service.This week's tips:• Close Range Group (Transitioning now to 1 year out): Have Micro-Routines to Combat Chaos — Establish small daily anchor points that create stability during an unpredictable transition and reduce decision fatigue under pressure.• Medium Range Group (Transitioning in about 5 years): Stress-Test Your Transition Strategy — Simulate early exits and reputation audits to strengthen your plan while building influence and opportunity inside your organization today.• Long Range Group (Transitioning in a decade or more): Build Your Reputation Before You Need It — Focus on leadership growth, skill-building, and influence now so your professional equity compounds long before transition arrives.Your next mission is built today. Control your preparation, sharpen your adaptability, and position yourself to thrive no matter when transition comes.The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life.Get additional resources and join our newsletter via the link in the show notes.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:IG: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:SPONSORS:GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15Total Force Plus ConferenceLink: https://totalforceplus.orgPendleton Surf ClubLink: https://pendletonsurfclub.com

We are taught to say yes. To be helpful, available, and agreeable. But every yes you give is a quiet no to something else, your time, your focus, your peace. In this episode, we challenge the automatic yes and explore what it's really costing you.You may not realize it, but saying yes too often and too easily is likely keeping you overwhelmed, unfocused, and disconnected from what matters most. This is not just about time management. It is about identity. It is about personal integrity. Because when you say yes to every request, you say no to your own priorities, and over time, that trade builds a life that looks nothing like the one you actually want.This episode is a direct, one-on-one conversation about reclaiming control. We unpack how to protect your energy, set boundaries without guilt, and make decisions that align with your values and vision.You will not hear empty motivation or recycled productivity tips. You will hear the truth about what it means to lead yourself first, to protect what matters most, and to become someone who chooses wisely instead of reacting aimlessly.This is not about doing more. This is about doing less, on purpose.Every yes is a no to something else. It is time to choose with clarity.Share this episode with someone who could benefit from the information.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:IG: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:SPONSORS:Trident CoffeeGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://tridentcoffee.comPromo Code: TDP15

In Episode 211 of the Transition Drill Podcast, Retired Master Sergeant Eric Franklin's journey through 23 years in the Marine Corps is a powerful story of resilience, leadership, and passion. From his early years growing up across Minnesota, Mississippi, and Florida, Eric's life was shaped by constant change, personal challenges, and a love for the ocean that would define his future.After enlisting in 1993, Eric quickly discovered that the Marine Corps would test him in ways he never expected. Boot camp taught him discipline, leadership, and the importance of teamwork. Over the years, he transitioned from a young radio repairman to an influential leader, mentoring Marines and building trust within his teams.As a radio repairman and radioman, he earned a spot with First Force Reconnaissance Company, where he deployed to Iraq. Those years taught him lessons in preparation, performance under pressure, and the power of trust among small, high-functioning teams.But Eric's story goes far beyond military achievements. As a passionate surfer, he founded the Pendleton Surf Club, creating a place for active duty and veterans to build camaraderie outside the uniform. Balancing deployments, fatherhood, and leadership, Eric learned firsthand how finding personal outlets helps sustain mental and emotional health during demanding careers.When the time came to transition, Eric approached retirement with strategy and intent. He prepared early, took advantage of transition resources, and leveraged his experience into a successful civilian contracting role. Today, he continues to mentor veterans, grow the Pendleton Surf Club, and live a life rooted in purpose and community.If you are a veteran, first responder, or transitioning professional, Eric's story delivers actionable advice on building resilience, finding your tribe, and preparing for life after service.The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life.Follow the show and share it with another veteran or first responder who would enjoy this.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:Instagram: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:EPISODE BLOG & CONNECT WITH ERIC FRANKLINSPONSORS:Brothers & Arms USAGet 20% off your purchaseLink: https://brothersandarms.comPromo Code: Transition20Trident CoffeeGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://tridentcoffee.comPromo Code: TDP15GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15Total Force Plus ConferenceLink: https://totalforceplus.org

Veterans, military members, and first responders, your online presence is part of your professional identity, and managing social media with intentionality is essential for protecting your reputation and preparing for a successful transition, whether that transition happens by choice or by force.In Round 86 of the Tactical Transition Tips on the Transition Drill Podcast, Today's episode of the Transition Drill Podcast tackles a hidden obstacle in many military and first responder transitions, your online presence. Whether you're a soldier, marine, airman, sailor, police officer, firefighter, or EMS professional, your digital reputation speaks for you before your résumé ever does.We break it down by transition group:

In this episode of The Mindset Debrief, we're challenging a growing modern habit: mistaking sharp opinions for meaningful impact. It has become easy to believe that because you can critique something, you are automatically adding value. We need to understand that commentary is not the same as contribution, and critique is not credibilityYou'll recognize this pattern. The person who never takes a risk but always points out flaws. The voice that dominates meetings with criticism but avoids accountability. The comment section expert who speaks louder than the people doing the hard work. If any of that sounds familiar, this episode is your mirror.In this honest and reflective conversation, we dig into why some people default to judgment instead of growth. We explore how critique can become a defense mechanism for fear, insecurity, and avoidance. And more importantly, we lay out a path forward, how to move from passive commentary to courageous contribution.You do not need a title to lead. You need responsibility, effort, and integrity. This episode is not about silencing your voice, it is about strengthening the voice that matters most: the one inside you.If you're ready to stop watching from the sidelines and start building a life that reflects your values, this episode will push you there.Share this episode with someone who could benefit from the information.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:IG: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:SPONSORS:GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15

In Episode 210 of the Transition Drill Podcast, former LAPD Sergeant Sarah Patterson shares her remarkable story of resilience, leadership, and personal transformation. From growing up in La Verne to becoming a respected leader within one of Los Angeles' busiest divisions, Sarah built a career on integrity, fitness, and determination.When an internal affairs investigation led to her termination, everything changed. Her journey since has been defined by faith, family, and an unwavering fight to clear her name and reclaim her future. Today, Sarah is still fighting to recover her job and a recent court decision went in her favor, but the fight continues.For veterans and first responders navigating transition, Sarah's story offers powerful lessons on perseverance, identity, and finding strength when your path takes an unexpected turn. Listen as Sarah talks about the highs and lows of her career, the realities of leadership, and the importance of redefining success when life tests you.This is an episode about redemption, courage, and refusing to let circumstances define your story.The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life.Follow the show and share it with another veteran or first responder who would enjoy this.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:Instagram: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:SPONSORS:Brothers & Arms USAGet 20% off your purchaseLink: https://brothersandarms.comPromo Code: Transition20Trident CoffeeGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://tridentcoffee.comPromo Code: TDP15GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15Total Force Plus ConferenceLink: https://totalforceplus.org

Veterans and first responders, trying to move ahead in your transition without the preparation to support it is like leaning too far forward on skis, you lose balance, lose control, and risk a painful crash before you even gain momentum.In Round 85 of the Tactical Transition Tips on the Transition Drill Podcast, we examine a critical warning for veterans, police officers, firefighters, and EMS professionals preparing for life after service: don't rush your transition. Just because you've led in chaos doesn't mean you're ready for civilian life without grounding your foundation. The uniform may have earned you respect, but your next chapter demands preparation, humility, and clarity.Whether you're stepping out in months or staying in for the long haul, your trajectory depends on how well you pace your growth. This episode breaks it down into three focused paths:• Close Range Group (transitioning in 0–12 months) – Downshift Your Ego Before You Hit the Onramp: Learn to introduce yourself without titles, build a clear civilian elevator pitch, and embrace curiosity over command presence. Your next job requires humility, not swagger.• Medium Range Group (transitioning in ~5 years) – Shift from Tactical Executor to Strategic Thinker: Build legacy leadership by enabling others, designing systems, and developing a structured exit plan. These moves elevate your career now while preparing your team for life without you.• Long Range Group (transitioning in 10+ years) – Build Depth, Not Just Experience: Stop chasing prestige. Start cultivating transferable skills, clarity of purpose, and a leadership identity rooted in mentorship. This mindset serves both today's advancement and tomorrow's stability.From soldier to civilian, firefighter to entrepreneur, or officer to operations manager, this episode offers a blueprint for veterans and first responders who want to lead with discipline and transition with confidence.The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life.Get additional resources and join our newsletter via the link in the show notes.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:IG: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:SPONSORS:Brothers & Arms USAGet 20% off your purchaseLink: https://brothersandarms.comPromo Code: Transition20Trident CoffeeGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://tridentcoffee.comPromo Code: TDP15Total Force Plus ConferenceLink: https://totalforceplus.org

In a world that never slows down, stillness is often misunderstood. We've been trained to believe that the more we hustle, the more successful we'll be. But real strength isn't always about speed. Sometimes, the most powerful move is to pause.This episode of the Mindset Debrief explores why stillness is not weakness, it is mastery. When life feels chaotic, the ability to calm your internal world becomes a competitive edge. We unpack the myth that motion equals progress, and instead highlight how grounded presence, controlled emotion, and intentional decision-making become game-changing assets.Through practical examples and direct reflection, we'll break down how stillness is developed, how it shows up in high-pressure situations, and why leaders who embody calm earn trust without demanding it. You'll learn simple daily practices that cultivate emotional discipline and clarity of thought, tools that prepare you not just for personal peace but for professional influence.If you want to grow into a more resilient, self-led version of yourself, this conversation is your invitation. Stillness doesn't come after the chaos clears. It is the practice that prepares you for it.Share this episode with someone who could benefit from the information.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:IG: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:SPONSORS:GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15

In Episode 209 of the Transition Drill Podcast, Michael Moulton spent nearly thirty years in law enforcement, rising from patrol officer to the Chief of Police in El Cajon, California. His story is one of dedication, resilience, and leadership, and it resonates with veterans and first responders who understand the weight of service and the uncertainty of transition.Raised in Southern California, Mike grew up with a sense of independence that shaped his path. From riding his bike through a small town to playing football under the watchful eye of a deputy coach, the seeds of service were planted early. When the Rodney King riots unfolded in 1992, he was just graduating high school. That moment pushed him toward criminal justice classes and ultimately into the police academy, where he celebrated his twenty-first birthday.His career was marked by diverse assignments. He worked as a gang detective, took part in narcotics and undercover operations, and served on the SWAT team. Those experiences sharpened his skills and prepared him for leadership. As he promoted through the ranks to sergeant, lieutenant, and captain, Mike discovered the fulfillment of mentoring younger officers and shaping the direction of an organization. By the time he became chief, he was leading through one of the most turbulent eras in American policing.Mike reflects on the challenges of recruitment, the importance of mental health, and the cultural changes in law enforcement. He shares how his department navigated national unrest and how critical it became to protect the wellness of both officers and dispatchers.Now retired, he speaks openly about the transition, the adjustment to life after the badge, and the importance of preparation. His story offers both inspiration and practical wisdom for veterans and first responders seeking to navigate their own next chapter with strength, purpose, and clarity.Don't miss an episode. Follow the Transition Drill Podcast and share with someone who needs to hear it.The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life.Follow the show and share it with another veteran or first responder who would enjoy this.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:Instagram: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:SPONSORS:Brothers & Arms USAGet 20% off your purchaseLink: https://brothersandarms.comPromo Code: Transition20Trident CoffeeGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://tridentcoffee.comPromo Code: TDP15GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15Total Force Plus ConferenceLink: https://totalforceplus.org

Veterans and first responders, managing all aspects of your overall health will help reduce the anxiety of leaving the uniform behindIn Round 84 of the Tactical Transition Tips on the Transition Drill Podcast, health and wellness are the backbone of a successful transition from service. For veterans and first responders, the shift into civilian life often removes the structure and rhythm they've relied on. Without intentional routines and personal systems in place, many stumble at the exact moment they need strength, clarity, and control the most.This episode delivers actionable strategies tailored for where you are in your career, whether you're preparing now, later, or far down the road. Learn how to take ownership of your physical, mental, and emotional health before the transition clock starts ticking.• Close Range Group (transitioning within 0–12 months): Build a routine that anchors you. A daily practice focused on body, breath, and mindset gives you portable stability in the middle of uncertainty.• Medium Range Group (transitioning in ~5 years): Audit your health and wellness annually. This yearly checkup prepares you for life after service and reinforces your current leadership capacity.• Long Range Group (transitioning in 10+ years): Build your bounce-back strategy. Developing resilience habits today helps you perform better now and withstand career setbacks down the line.This is more than wellness. It is strategic readiness for military veterans, law enforcement professionals, firefighters, EMTs, and all who serve.The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life.Get additional resources and join our newsletter via the link in the show notes.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:IG: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:SPONSORS:Brothers & Arms USAGet 20% off your purchaseLink: https://brothersandarms.comPromo Code: Transition20Trident CoffeeGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://tridentcoffee.comPromo Code: TDP15GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15

There's a hard truth that most people avoid: no one is coming to rescue you. Not a better boss. Not the perfect timing. Not the right set of circumstances. If you're waiting for someone else to take the lead, you'll wait forever. This is your wake-up call, not to scare you, but to empower you.In this episode of The Mindset Debrief, we talk through the subtle ways we all fall into the trap of waiting: waiting for clarity, for validation, for a sign. We cover how this habit forms, why it lingers even in high-performing professionals, and what it takes to finally break free.We explore the mindset of personal accountability, from asking yourself the mirror-test question, “What part of this is mine?” to taking meaningful action with discipline and consistency. You'll walk away with clear direction on how to stop waiting for leadership and start leading yourself , right where you are.You don't need to wait for a title, a green light, or a rescue. You are your own backup. You have the tools. You have the ability. You just need the mindset shift. This episode delivers more than motivation. It offers grounded, practical insight into how ownership today builds the character and results you want tomorrow. No cavalry. No excuses. Just the truth: no one is coming. And once you understand that, you are finally free to take charge of your life.Share this episode with someone who could benefit from the information.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:IG: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:SPONSORS:GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15

In Episode 208 of the Transition Drill Podcast, Retired U.S. Navy Senior Chief, Jacquelyn “Jacque” Read's path took her from rural Colorado to serving over two decades in the Navy, mastering roles from Chinese linguist to elite Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technician and operating with Navy Special Warfare - Development Group. She shares how a childhood built on discipline and resilience prepared her for grueling training, shipboard missions, humanitarian aid in Haiti, and breaking barriers in a male-dominated field. After retiring in 2022, she founded her own company focused on training, resilience, and leadership. This episode delivers powerful lessons for veterans and first responders on perseverance, adaptability, and building a purposeful life after service.Jacque's journey began in the wake of the September 11 attacks, as a newly enlisted cryptologic technician studying Chinese at the Defense Language Institute. Stationed in Hawaii, she balanced her role as a linguist with a deep passion for the ocean, surfing and kiteboarding every chance she got. But the call to push her limits never faded. She set her sights on EOD, enduring one of the military's most challenging pipelines to earn her place in a male-dominated field.From shipboard missions to joint training with foreign forces, from inspecting ordnance to humanitarian response in Haiti, Jacque proved herself through performance and professionalism. Her skills and reputation led to selection for a specialized female operator program with Navy Special Warfare Development Group, where she worked in high-stakes environments requiring absolute trust and precision.After retiring in 2022, Jacque transitioned into entrepreneurship, founding her own company focused on training, resilience, and leadership. She now uses her experience to help others succeed in high-pressure environments and guides veterans and first responders through the challenges of transition.In this episode, Jacque shares her full journey, lessons in perseverance, the realities of breaking barriers, and the mindset needed to thrive in service and beyond. Her story is a powerful testament to the courage it takes to step into the unknown and succeed.Don't miss an episode. Follow the Transition Drill Podcast and share with someone who needs to hear it.The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life.Follow the show and share it with another veteran or first responder who would enjoy this.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:Instagram: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:SPONSORS:Brothers & Arms USAGet 20% off your purchaseLink: https://brothersandarms.comPromo Code: Transition20Trident CoffeeGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://tridentcoffee.comPromo Code: TDP15GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15Total Force Plus ConferenceLink: https://totalforceplus.org

Veterans and first responders, time management is not about doing more, it's about aligning your daily actions with your future identity, purpose, and mission beyond the uniform.In Round 83 of the Tactical Transition Tips on the Transition Drill Podcast, for those in uniform, the clock has never been your own. Your days are often dictated by the mission, the call, or the shift. But as you prepare for life after service, the way you use time becomes your most powerful asset. Transition is not just about finding a new job. It is about rebuilding your identity, rebalancing your priorities, and realigning your energy toward what comes next.Time management is not a spreadsheet or a rigid schedule. It is a mindset that reflects your values and future mission. For military veterans and first responders, police, firefighters, EMS professionals, the challenge lies in shifting from a reactive posture to a proactive one. You have to learn how to lead yourself when the calls stop coming.Whether you're separating from the military next month or thinking ahead five or ten years down the line, this episode of the veteran podcast breaks down how you can take control of your time. Through lessons shaped by service, identity, and forward momentum, you will learn how to approach your transition with clarity. Not just to survive it, but to shape it.Through three tailored transition strategies, this veteran and first responder podcast delivers time-tested guidance for:• Close Range Group (transitioning immediately to one year out)Start Me Up – Structure your day with Power Blocks, energy resets, and weekly outreach to build momentum and reduce anxiety.Consistent time use turns job-search chaos into clarity and confidence.• Medium Range Group (transitioning in roughly five years)Can't You Hear Me Knocking – Invest weekly time into upskilling, mentoring, and building a family transition vision.Managing time today creates readiness for the unexpected opportunity tomorrow.• Long Range Group (transitioning in ten years or more)Waiting on a Friend – Prioritize meaningful relationships, reputation, and life balance while building a habit of contribution.What you build today in trust and character will carry you through life after service.The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life.Get additional resources and join our newsletter via the link in the show notes.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:IG: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:SPONSORS:Trident CoffeeGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://tridentcoffee.comPromo Code: TDP15GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15Total Force Plus ConferenceLink: https://totalforceplus.org

You cannot build a future by staying parked in the past. In this episode of The Mindset Debrief, unpack what happens when you allow yesterday's regrets to decide today's direction. Through the metaphor of the rearview mirror and the windshield, this conversation explores how backward focus quietly becomes an identity, and how to let it go.If you've ever caught yourself replaying old decisions, lost opportunities, or the moments you wish you could undo, this episode is for you. We're not talking about pretending the past never happened. We're talking about how to stop letting it define what happens next.This is a conversation about action, mindset, and momentum. Not theory. Not fluff. Just real talk about where you are and what you're willing to do to grow beyond it.You'll learn how to recognize the mental loops that hold you back and how to replace them with forward-facing clarity. You'll be challenged to stop waiting to feel ready and start reclaiming control, one decision at a time.This is not a motivational speech. It is a conversation rooted in accountability, self-awareness, and discipline. Progress begins when you start focusing on the road ahead, not the road already traveled.Let this be the moment you stop circling what went wrong and choose direction over dwelling. Take your eyes off the rearview. Put both hands back on the wheel.Share this episode with someone who could benefit from the information.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:IG: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:SPONSORS:GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15

In Episode 207 of the Transition Drill Podcast, from a Soviet-era apartment block in Lithuania to the frontlines of Iraq and beyond, medically separated U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Sandra Ambotaite's journey is a powerful story of resilience, transformation, and service. Sandra shares how a childhood shaped by communal living and scarcity built the foundation for her relentless work ethic and unshakable mindset.After immigrating to the United States at 17 with limited English and no roadmap, Sandra found herself working odd jobs in Brooklyn and catching glimpses of the American dream through television and street life. One unexpected encounter with a female Army recruiter changed everything. Despite limited language skills, she joined the Army Reserve, passed basic training, and quickly transitioned to active duty. Her deployment to Iraq placed her at the center of high-pressure medical evacuations, where she earned a reputation for courage, competence, and service before self.But a life-altering motorcycle accident threatened to end everything she had built. Paralyzed, hospitalized, and facing the end of her military career, Sandra could have given up. Instead, she rebuilt herself physically, mentally, and emotionally, emerging not just as a veteran, but as a mentor for others facing their own transitions.This episode is for every veteran, service member, and first responder who has been forced to pivot. Sandra's story proves that no matter where you start, or how hard you fall, you can find new purpose through persistence and pride in your work.Don't miss an episode. Follow the Transition Drill Podcast and share with someone who needs to hear it.The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life.Follow the show and share it with another veteran or first responder who would enjoy this.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:Instagram: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:CONNECT WITH SANDRASPONSORS:Brothers & Arms USAGet 20% off your purchaseLink: https://brothersandarms.comPromo Code: Transition20Trident CoffeeGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://tridentcoffee.comPromo Code: TDP15GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15Total Force Plus ConferenceLink: https://totalforceplus.org

In Round 81 of the Tactical Transition Tips on the Transition Drill Podcast, for military veterans, law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMS professionals, and all first responders, the day will come when the job ends. Whether that's next year or decades from now, your financial readiness will play a major role in how confidently you step into life after service. Transition is not just about resumes and interviews. It's about control. And control starts with your money.In this episode we break down practical financial strategies for every phase of the journey. From understanding your benefits and eliminating debt to building credit and investing early, these tips are tailored for those still serving but ready to plan ahead. This isn't theory. These are tools. Designed for soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, police, and firefighters alike, each tip helps you lead stronger today while preparing for the moment your next mission begins.• Close Range Group (0–12 months to transition): Know Your BenefitsLearn the exact steps to secure VA disability, healthcare coverage, pension accuracy, and TSP rollovers without leaving money on the table.• Medium Range Group (about 5 years out): Eliminate Debt and Build CreditDitch the stress. Smart debt reduction and credit-building today create long-term leverage and help you lead more clearly in the present.• Long Range Group (transition 10+ years away): Sacrifice Today for Tomorrow MoneyInvesting early, spending wisely, and creating passive income now positions you for future transition freedom without sacrificing your current trajectory.The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life.Get additional resources and join our newsletter via the link in the show notes.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:IG: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:SPONSORS:Brothers & Arms USAGet 20% off your purchaseLink: https://brothersandarms.comPromo Code: Transition20Trident CoffeeGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://tridentcoffee.comPromo Code: TDP15GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15

Most people lose control of their day in the first ten minutes without even realizing it. In this episode of The Mindset Debrief, we explore how intentional morning routines can create clarity, discipline, and purpose that lasts far beyond sunrise. Titled Own Your Morning, Own Your Purpose, this conversation challenges the belief that mornings are just about productivity and instead frames them as a reflection of personal identity.If you are trying to improve your mindset and performance, this episode offers a powerful roadmap. We break down five foundational elements of a grounded morning routine, address common excuses like not being a morning person, and explain why owning the first moments of your day builds long-term mental strength.Rooted in principles of stoicism, mindfulness, and self-leadership, this episode encourages listeners to take control of what they can, starting with their wake-up habits. If you want to stop reacting to life and start directing it, this is where the shift begins.This is not about waking up earlier. It is about waking up with purpose. Tune in to learn how to reclaim your time, improve your focus, and build momentum by owning your morning. Because the way you start your day is the way you shape your life.Share this episode with someone who could benefit from the information.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:IG: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:SPONSORS:Trident CoffeeGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://tridentcoffee.comPromo Code: TDP15

In Episode 206 of the Transition Drill Podcast, retired Navy Commander Victor Avila's story begins in Tijuana, Mexico, and stretches across decades of challenge, growth, and purpose. From surviving an abusive home and immigrating to the United States at age nine, to eventually retiring as a Navy Commander and flying commercial jets for American Airlines, Victor's path is anything but conventional.Victor opens up about his chaotic upbringing, his struggles with school, and his early failures in the military. He talks candidly about enlisting in the Navy with no direction, then joining the Army out of desperation after separating. It wasn't until a pivotal assignment in Germany, where he met his future wife and pursued a college degree, that Victor began to rebuild his life with discipline and clarity.Victor eventually returned to the Navy, earned his commission, and fulfilled his childhood dream of becoming a pilot. He rose to the rank of O5, serving as both aviator and instructor. Though not directly stated in the interview, Victor officially retired from the Navy in 2022 and now flies for American Airlines.His story resonates with veterans and first responders who may be struggling with transition, self-doubt, or the weight of past mistakes. Victor shows that transformation is possible with the right mindset and support system.Don't miss an episode. Follow the Transition Drill Podcast and share with someone who needs to hear it.The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life.Follow the show and share it with another veteran or first responder who would enjoy this.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:Instagram: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:SPONSORS:Brothers & Arms USAGet 20% off your purchaseLink: https://brothersandarms.comPromo Code: Transition20Trident CoffeeGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://tridentcoffee.comPromo Code: TDP15GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15

In Round 81 of the Tactical Transition Tips on the Transition Drill Podcast, this episode explores the often-overlooked challenge of navigating change and uncertainty during career transition. For military veterans and first responders, few challenges feel as overwhelming as navigating change and facing uncertainty. Whether you are counting down the final weeks of your career or still deep in the daily grind, the truth remains the same, transition is inevitable. And it rarely arrives on your schedule. This episode explores the real cost of avoiding the unknown and the powerful outcomes that can emerge when you meet uncertainty with strategy instead of fear. Whether transition is right around the corner or still years away. Through thoughtful insight and practical mindset shifts, the conversation addresses how to reduce fear, build clarity, and create forward momentum. If you are seeking purpose beyond the uniform and want to approach life after service with intention, this episode delivers the foundation to move with confidence into your next chapter.• Close Range Group (transitioning within the next year): Convert uncertainty into actionable questionsTurn stress-inducing unknowns into clear, answerable decisions about salary, schedules, and mission fit, so you can move forward with clarity instead of fear.• Medium Range Group (about five years from transition): Rehearse your leavingPlan and rehearse your exit now while continuing to lead with impact, leaving behind systems, mentorship, and professionalism that will define your legacy and boost your future resume.• Long Range Group (a decade or more from transition): Take transition seriously, even if it feels far away.Early mindset development and studying the path of those ahead can reduce future shock and help you define success beyond your current role or rank.The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life.Get additional resources and join our newsletter via the link in the show notes.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:IG: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:SPONSORS:Brothers & Arms USAGet 20% off your purchaseLink: https://brothersandarms.comPromo Code: Transition20Trident CoffeeGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://tridentcoffee.comPromo Code: TDP15GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15

Discipline isn't something you're born with. Personal accountability and the choices you make daily quietly shape your identity and future.Most people believe discipline is a personality trait, something you either have or don't. They assume the most consistent, high-performing professionals are simply “wired” that way. But the truth is much simpler and far more empowering: discipline is not a trait. It's a decision. It's a choice you make every day, especially when comfort whispers in your ear and excuses feel justified.In this episode of The Mindset Debrief, we break down the lie that discipline belongs to the lucky few and replace it with a grounded, actionable truth. Discipline is built in the quiet moments, when the alarm rings, when the deadline looms, when nobody is watching. You'll explore how small daily choices stack into your identity, why motivation cannot be trusted, and how to fight the subtle resistance that keeps you comfortable and stuck.We explore why your habits shape your reputation with yourself and why your greatest growth happens not in public but in private. With a practical and direct tone, this episode invites you to reclaim control, stop waiting for perfect conditions, and begin leading yourself with purpose.If you're tired of feeling stuck, tired of drifting, and ready to stop negotiating with your potential, this conversation is your wake-up call. Discipline is not something you were born lacking, it's something you start choosing today.Subscribe for weekly mindset insights focused on self-control, personal accountability, and showing up stronger every day.Share this episode with someone who's been waiting too long to begin.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:IG: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:SPONSORS:Brothers & Arms USAGet 20% off your purchaseLink: https://brothersandarms.comPromo Code: Transition20

The surfer who wanted to be a doctor, joined the Navy and ended his career assigned to SEAL Team SDV in HawaiiIn Episode 205 of the Transition Drill Podcast, retired Navy E6 Corpsman / Diver Brandon McMahan's story is one of transformation through hardship, self-discovery, and service both in and out of uniform. From a turbulent upbringing split between Indiana and Florida to earning his place as a respected Navy Corpsman and Diver, Brandon's path was forged by resilience and shaped by challenge. A lifelong waterman, Brandon grew up chasing waves before enlisting in the Navy with aspirations of becoming a doctor. Over his 21-year career, he served with Marine aviation units, deployed to combat zones, flew as an aircrew door gunner, and later graduated Navy Dive School at the age of 35.But Brandon's most defining battle began when his son was diagnosed with severe autism. Learning to lead with compassion instead of control, Brandon found himself confronting the limits of structure, adapting his identity as both a father and a veteran. After retiring, he faced a mysterious illness, professional setbacks, and a deep void left by the loss of military purpose. His search for healing brought him to holistic retreats, breath work, and a newfound mission to serve veterans and first responders in transition.In this raw and inspiring episode, Brandon opens up about the weight of family trauma, the toll of service, and the path to finding meaning after the uniform comes off. Whether you're active duty, nearing transition, or long since retired, his story is a powerful reminder that purpose doesn't end with your career. It evolves.Listen in as Brandon shares lessons on letting go, stepping into fatherhood, and creating space for the next chapter—one filled with mentorship, mindfulness, and continued service.Don't miss an episode. Follow the Transition Drill Podcast and share with someone who needs to hear it.The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life.Follow the show and share it with another veteran or first responder who would enjoy this.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:Instagram: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:SPONSORS:Brothers & Arms USAGet 20% off your purchaseLink: https://brothersandarms.comPromo Code: Transition20Trident CoffeeGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://tridentcoffee.comPromo Code: TDP15GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15

Round 80 equips military veterans and first responders with practical, career-stage-specific strategies rooted in the mindset of tactical redundancy, helping them build resilience, expand options, and prepare for life after service while excelling in their current roles.In military service and first responder careers, you never trust a single point of failure. There is always a second radio, a spare battery, an alternate route. This week's Tactical Transition Tips episode draws from that same principle: Two is one and one is none.Whether you are a veteran preparing to transition in the next twelve months, a firefighter five years from retirement, or an airman just beginning to think long-term, this episode is about building redundancy into your career strategy. Not out of fear, but out of strength.In this episode, we break it down by timeline:• Close Range Group (those transitioning within a year), Always Hunt in Pairs. Create two parallel job pursuits so you have a fallback ready if your top choice falls through. • Medium Range Group (those 3–5 years out), Build Multiple Competencies. Gather additional skills that help this career but carry over to your next.• Long Range Group (a decade or more away), Build Two Mentorship Paths. Find mentors who help build this career and mentors who help build your civilian side, in tandem.Each segment focuses on how tactical planning, layered preparation, and proactive learning create more options, stronger leadership, and a smoother path into your next chapter."Two is one and one is none" is not just a gear checklist. It is a mindset for a resilient career and an intentional transition.This episode serves military veterans, law enforcement, firefighters, EMS professionals, Marines, soldiers, airmen, and sailors preparing for military transition, law enforcement retirement, or an unexpected career shift.Whether you're wearing the uniform or preparing to take it off, your oath to serve still stands—and this episode will help you carry it forward.Get additional resources and join our newsletter via the link in the show notes.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:IG: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:SPONSORS:Brothers & Arms USAGet 20% off your purchaseLink: https://brothersandarms.comPromo Code: Transition20Trident CoffeeGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://tridentcoffee.comPromo Code: TDP15GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15

Your comfort zone may feel earned, especially after years of sacrifice and service. But for veterans, first responders, and professionals alike, staying comfortable often means staying stuck. This episode is a deep dive into the invisible tension between your ego's desire for safety and your future's demand for challenge.Drawing from lessons in mindset, stoicism, and personal accountability, we explore how the ego convinces you to protect your reputation, preserve your identity, and avoid discomfort. But true transformation is never born in safety. It lives in the discomfort of starting over, the humility of being a beginner again, and the discipline to let go of outdated versions of yourself.You will hear the message clearly: you cannot evolve without friction. The routines, titles, and patterns that once served you may now be the very things holding you back. Whether you wore a uniform or carry invisible scars from high-responsibility work, this episode calls you forward.You will be challenged to trade your attachment to comfort for the currency of growth. This episode is not just a reflection, it is a call to action. To stop waiting. To stop rehearsing old stories. To stop letting ego protect what no longer needs to be defended.It is time to make discomfort your ally and let challenge reshape your future.Subscribe for weekly mindset insights focused on self-control, personal accountability, and showing up stronger every day.Share this episode with someone who's been waiting too long to begin.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:IG: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:SPONSORS:GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15

In Episode 204 of the Transition Drill Podcast, retired Navy Captain William Fenick takes us through a deeply personal and inspiring journey of service, identity, and reinvention. From his early days as a high school lifeguard to nearly three decades of active duty in the Navy, Bill's career path was never predictable. Raised in a military household, he shares how family expectations shaped his choices, and how moments of unexpected transition, such as being fired from a civilian job or later laid off from a nonprofit, opened doors to self-discovery.William talks about forging his own identity in the Navy while honoring his father's legacy, navigating a career shift from supply to public affairs, and finding post-military purpose in the nonprofit space including the Navy SEAL Family Foundation and the USO. When life threw another curveball, he turned inward, took a DISC assessment, and uncovered a surprising truth: the role that aligned most with his core identity was the one he started with, lifeguarding. In addition he's started his own company, Government Assessments 24x7 LLC, related to these same assessments, Now back on the pool deck, William reminds us that fulfillment often lives in the places we left behind. This episode is a masterclass in aligning passion with purpose and embracing transition at any age. Whether you're a service member, first responder, or civilian professional, Williams's story offers a roadmap for rediscovering who you are and what really matters.Don't miss an episode. Follow the Transition Drill Podcast and share with someone who needs to hear it.The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life.Follow the show and share it with another veteran or first responder who would enjoy this.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:Instagram: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:SPONSORS:Brothers & Arms USAGet 20% off your purchaseLink: https://brothersandarms.comPromo Code: Transition20Trident CoffeeGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://tridentcoffee.comPromo Code: TDP15GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15

Round 79 Veterans and First responders, this episode breaks down how to embrace discomfort, build momentum, and prepare for what's nextWhen your time in uniform ends, it rarely feels like a clean break. For many veterans and first responders, the job wasn't just work, it was identity. So when you start looking at what's next, hesitation creeps in. You scroll job postings, tell yourself you're waiting for the “right” job, but deep down, something unfamiliar holds you back.In this episode, we break it down by timeline:• Close Range (less than a year from transition): Why a bridge job may be your launchpad• Medium Range (5 years out): How a side project can shape your future• Long Range (10+ years out): Why the things you dismiss may be the areas you need to exploreThis episode draws from real-world insight and speaks directly to where you are, whether you are retiring next quarter, five years from now, or just getting started. It's about building forward motion, reframing fear, and preparing for a transition that doesn't derail your identity, it refines it.If you've ever felt stuck in indecision or limited by what “should” come next, this conversation is for you.Get additional resources and join our newsletter via the link in the show notes.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:IG: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:SPONSORS:Brothers & Arms USAGet 20% off your purchaseLink: https://brothersandarms.comPromo Code: Transition20Trident CoffeeGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://tridentcoffee.comPromo Code: TDP15GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15

We live in a culture where saying “I'm exhausted” is met with admiration. It's often seen as a badge of honor, especially among high-performing professionals. But what if your fatigue is not from effort, but from misalignment?In this episode of The Mindset Debrief, we challenge the idea that burnout always means you've worked too hard. The truth is, most people are not tired because they've done too much. They're tired because they've done too little of what truly matters. They're reacting instead of leading. Consuming instead of creating. Escaping instead of engaging.If you've ever felt like you're running on empty but can't point to anything meaningful you've done, this episode is for you. Through a blend of real-world reflection, purpose-driven insight, and clarity-first thinking, you'll discover how to reclaim your energy, not by resting more, but by focusing better.This isn't about hustle. It's about direction. It's about recognizing that in the uncertain space of personal or professional transition, what drains you isn't always the job. Sometimes, it's the distraction. And sometimes, it's the lack of clarity about where you're going next.This episode will challenge your assumptions about exhaustion, and show you how to refuel by recommitting to what matters most.Subscribe for weekly mindset insights focused on self-control, personal accountability, and showing up stronger every day.Share this episode with someone who's been waiting too long to begin.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:IG: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:SPONSORS:Trident CoffeeGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://tridentcoffee.comPromo Code: TDP15

In Episode 203 of the Transition Drill Podcast, what would you do if the career you built by age 30 ended overnight? For Ken Bator, a corporate firing became the start of something far greater than a title or paycheck. Raised in a working-class Chicago suburb by a teacher and a railroad employee, Ken learned early the value of hard work, humility, and discipline. But like many, his first career steps in finance collided with a recession. He briefly considered firefighting, passed the physical tests, but ultimately realized he was not built to take orders without question. That realization would become the foundation for his entrepreneurial career.In this episode, Ken opens up about the personal and professional journey that led him to launch his own consulting firm and co-found the Police Officers Credit Union Association. He shares the early lessons from growing up in Catholic school, the pivotal moment he faced a fear of heights, and how being fired became his greatest professional catalyst.Ken also reveals how podcasting became a platform to serve, not just promote. He breaks down his “Soundness Initiative,” a framework built around physical, emotional, professional, and financial well-being that speaks directly to the challenges faced by military veterans and first responders.This is a story about starting over with purpose, turning failure into fuel, and using your voice to make an impact.Don't miss an episode. Follow the Transition Drill Podcast and share with someone who needs to hear it.The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life.Follow the show and share it with another veteran or first responder who would enjoy this.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:Instagram: WEBSITE:LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:SPONSORS:Brothers & Arms USAGet 20% off your purchaseLink: https://brothersandarms.comPromo Code: Transition20Trident CoffeeGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://tridentcoffee.comPromo Code: TDP15GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15

You served with honor, but the moment you take off the uniform, a new challenge begins: the battle of perception.This week's Tactical Transition Tips takes aim at one of the most misunderstood parts of veteran and first responder transition: the stereotypes that follow you into the civilian workforce. Labels like “too rigid,” “aggressive,” or “unable to adapt” are often handed out before you even speak.But what if you could see those coming—and build a strategy to disarm them before they stick?In this episode, we break it down by timeline:• For the Close Range Group (those transitioning within a year), you'll learn how to reframe the narrative in interviews and conversations—turning perceived weaknesses into leadership assets.• For the Medium Range Group (those 3–5 years out), we explore how to gather feedback from civilian peers now, building a professional reputation rooted in emotional intelligence, not assumptions.• And for the Long Range Group (a decade or more away), we show you how to train against stereotypes early—building the identity you want before anyone can assign you one.This episode serves military veterans, law enforcement, firefighters, EMS professionals, Marines, soldiers, airmen, and sailors preparing for military transition, law enforcement retirement, or an unexpected career shift.Whether you're wearing the uniform or preparing to take it off, your oath to serve still stands—and this episode will help you carry it forward.Get additional resources and join our newsletter via the link in the show notes.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:IG: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer DonationSPONSORS:Brothers & Arms USAGet 20% off your purchaseLink: https://brothersandarms.comPromo Code: Transition20Trident CoffeeGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://tridentcoffee.comPromo Code: TDP15GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15

Most people are waiting. Waiting for their schedule to lighten. Waiting for permission. Waiting for things to make sense. But the truth is, your identity is not something that happens to you. It is something you build, one choice at a time.In this episode of The Mindset Debrief, we cut through the noise and challenge the illusion that your circumstances define your future. Wherever you are in your life, your career, or simply stuck in the cycle of hesitation, the message is the same: your life is shaped more by your actions than your conditions.This episode addresses quiet accountability, daily discipline, and internal leadership. Not in some abstract, motivational way, but in practical terms. The kind that matter when no one is watching. This episode explores five core ideas: the illusion of control, the practice of identity, the quiet power of accountability, the lie of perfect timing, and the cost of inaction.This is not about inspiration. It is about execution. If you want to lead yourself, it starts with being honest about what you choose to do, today. Not someday. Because in a world full of excuses, owning your path is a rare form of strength.Subscribe for weekly mindset insights focused on self-control, personal accountability, and showing up stronger every day.Share this episode with someone who's been waiting too long to begin.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:IG: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:SPONSORS:GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15

From Street Cop to National Advocate for Injured OfficersIn Episode 202 of the Transition Drill Podcast, retired Police Lieutenant Randy Sutton takes us on a riveting journey through his 34-year career in law enforcement, from a sickly child in Princeton, NJ to a nationally recognized police advocate. With deeply personal stories of trauma, resilience, and transformation, Randy shares how a near-death experience and career-ending stroke became the catalyst for founding The Wounded Blue, a national organization supporting injured and disabled police officers.This episode is more than a recounting of duty. It's a call to purpose for every military veteran and first responder who faces a sudden shift in identity after service. Randy reflects on the power of storytelling, leadership through compassion, and post-traumatic growth, including how writing about saving a baby's life unknowingly launched his career as an author and voice for the wounded.Whether you're active duty, preparing to transition, or years removed from your last shift, Randy's story speaks to the soul of every servant-leader who has bled for the mission—and now asks, what's next?We discuss:• Childhood adversity that shaped a protector's mindset• His mother's heroic WWII service• The turning point of a deadly pursuit gone wrong• Leadership lessons from a mentor who taught compassion over control• Why your agency won't always protect you—and what to do when it doesn't• Creating a second mission through service and advocacyIf you've ever doubted your next move after the uniform, this conversation will remind you: your mission isn't over—it's evolving.Don't miss an episode. Follow the Transition Drill Podcast and share with someone who needs to hear it.The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life.Follow the show and share it with another veteran or first responder who would enjoy this.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:Instagram: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:SPONSORS:Brothers & Arms USAGet 20% off your purchaseLink: https://brothersandarms.comPromo Code: Transition20Trident CoffeeGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://tridentcoffee.comPromo Code: TDP15GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15

Retire the Uniform, Keep the Oath — This episode of the Transition Drill Podcast is a deep dive into how military veterans and first responders can prepare for their transition, for when uniform comes off.Host Paul Pantani, a retired police officer with 30 years of service, presents three powerful transition strategies tailored for service-minded professionals at different stages of their journey:• Close Range Group (transitioning now to 1 year out): Learn how to rebuild purpose, let go of your role without losing your values, and design a post-service identity with intentional clarity.• Medium Range Group (5 years out): Explore how to lead like you're preparing to leave, begin writing your leadership legacy, and translate your skills into future career value.• Long Range Group (10+ years out): Discover how thinking in systems, automating tasks, and protecting your identity beyond the badge or rank will serve both today's mission and tomorrow's freedom.This episode serves military veterans, law enforcement, firefighters, EMS professionals, Marines, soldiers, airmen, and sailors preparing for military transition, law enforcement retirement, or an unexpected career shift.Whether you're wearing the uniform or preparing to take it off, your oath to serve still stands—and this episode will help you carry it forward.Get additional resources and join our newsletter via the link in the show notes.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:IG: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:SPONSORS:Brothers & Arms USAGet 20% off your purchaseLink: https://brothersandarms.comPromo Code: Transition20Trident CoffeeGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://tridentcoffee.comPromo Code: TDP15GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15

Most of us carry weight that was never ours to hold—stress about the future, the opinions of others, the uncontrollable. In this Mindset Debrief, we dive into the difference between concern and control, exploring how stoic detachment, boundaries, and personal standards help reclaim your energy and peace. If you're feeling overwhelmed or stuck, this episode is your reminder that strength doesn't come from carrying everything—it comes from carrying the right things.Subscribe for weekly mindset insights focused on self-control, personal accountability, and showing up stronger every day.Share this episode with someone who's been waiting too long to begin.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:IG: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:SPONSORS:Brothers & Arms USAGet 20% off your purchaseLink: https://brothersandarms.comPromo Code: Transition20

EP. 201 Surviving Trauma and a father in prison, today On a Journey to Summit and Help Other Veterans.Marine Corps veteran Mike Algeo shares a deeply personal and brutally honest journey from childhood abuse and homelessness to serving 12 years in the United States Marine Corps, including deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. He talks about his role in aviation operations, the impact of military life on his relationships, and the struggles he faced during and after his service. After separating from the military, Mike pursued higher education, earned a law degree, and began working toward a PhD in criminal justice. Throughout the conversation, Mike opens up about the personal toll his military service had on his relationships, the emotional weight of returning from combat zones, and the difficulty of transitioning into civilian life. After leaving the military, he pursued a law degree and began working toward a PhD in criminal justice while facing new legal and emotional challenges. He also talks about his passion for mountaineering, climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro and setting his sights on Everest. Mike addresses his desire to overcome internal battles and find lasting meaning beyond his service.This episode is a raw and honest look at life after service, the reality of veteran transition, and what it means to rebuild after trauma. It speaks directly to military veterans navigating life after the uniform, Marines, Soldiers, Sailors, and Airmen alike, and explores the hard path of post-military purpose, healing, and growth.Don't miss this episode. Follow the Transition Drill Podcast and share with someone who needs to hear it.The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life.Follow the show and share it with another veteran or first responder who would enjoy this.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:Instagram: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:SPONSORS:Brothers & Arms USAGet 20% off your purchaseLink: https://brothersandarms.comPromo Code: Transition20Trident CoffeeGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://tridentcoffee.comPromo Code: TDP15GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15Human Performance TRTGet 30% off your purchaseWeb: https://hptrt.com/Promo Code: TDP

Welcome to Round 76 of Tactical Transition Tips, designed for military veterans and first responders preparing to leave service.You've trained for chaos your entire career, so why treat your transition like it's a last-minute scramble? In this episode we tackle relentless preparation across three transitioning timelines.• Close Range (less than a year out): Build a real-world contingency plan. Hope is not a strategy.• Medium Range (5 years out): Schedule one transition prep task a month. It's not about speed, it's about consistency.• Long Range (10+ years out): Develop your personal operating system now, so your identity isn't tied to your rank when the day comes.These tips are crafted for military veterans, law enforcement, and first responders. Learn how to create a structure that leads you forward instead of leaving you scrambling.Whether your transition is weeks away or a decade out, now is the time to train like your next mission depends on it—because it does.Get additional resources and join our newsletter via the link in the show notes.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:IG: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:SPONSORS:Trident CoffeeGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://tridentcoffee.comPromo Code: TDP15GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15

Leadership isn't defined by your position—it's revealed in your standards. In Episode 3 of The Mindset Debrief, we break down the mindset shift necessary to lead without formal authority.We've been taught to equate leadership with position—lieutenant, sergeant, supervisor. But true leadership doesn't require a title. It requires a decision. A decision to hold the line when no one is watching. A decision to act with consistency when everything around you is inconsistent. Whether you're active duty, a veteran, or stepping into your next chapter, the leadership that lasts isn't printed on your ID badge—it's built from your personal standards.Key Sections:What Real Leadership Looks Like Without a TitleTitles can be reassigned. What lasts is how you show up. Explore why the most respected people in a room often aren't in charge.Why Standards Are Your True AuthorityWhen things fall apart, people look for consistency. Standards aren't flashy—but they're magnetic.Audit Your Own Leadership HabitsUse the 3-step reset: name your values, build one habit, show it daily. It's not about overhauling your life—it's about re-centering.Character Is What's RememberedWhen you're gone, no one will list your positions. They'll talk about whether you showed up, followed through, and kept your word.The Leadership That Outlasts RankInternal leadership means you carry influence no matter what room you walk into. It's your mindset, not your resume, that opens doors.Closing Section:Leadership without rank isn't just possible—it's necessary. As veterans, first responders, and high-accountability professionals, we often find ourselves in transition. Whether we're stepping out of a formal leadership role or just starting to lead in new ways, the foundation is always the same: personal standards. Hold them. Live them. And others will follow.Subscribe for weekly mindset insights focused on self-control, personal accountability, and showing up stronger every day.Share this episode with someone who's been waiting too long to begin.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:Instagram: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:SPONSORS:Brothers & Arms USAGet 20% off your purchaseLink: https://brothersandarms.comPromo Code: Transition20

EP. 200 From Fired to Fulfilled: The Process of Fighting and Rebuilding a Life After a Career in the Fire ServiceDavy Dahlin's journey is one of purpose, pain, and perseverance. As a firefighter in Seattle, he found meaning in service—until one day, it all ended. Terminated from the job he loved, Davy entered a dark chapter marked by confusion, guilt, and emotional isolation. But this wasn't the end, it was a pivot point.In this candid conversation on the Transition Drill Podcast, Davy opens up about:• What it felt like to lose not just a career, but an identity• The quiet shame that often follows forced transitions• How he re-centered himself through coaching, community, and storytelling• Why he now sees his firing not as an end, but as a redirection• The on-going legal battle and the impact on him and his familyThis episode is especially relevant for:• Firefighters and first responders transitioning out of public service• Veterans confronting life beyond the uniform• Anyone navigating career uncertainty or recovering from professional setbacksDavy's message is clear: you are not your title. Your value doesn't disappear when your uniform does. And with the right mindset and support, you can rise stronger on your terms.If you're in transition, or still processing one, don't miss this episode.Don't miss this episode. Follow the Transition Drill Podcast and share with someone who needs to hear it.The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life.Follow the show and share it with another veteran or first responder who would enjoy this.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:Instagram: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:SPONSORS:Brothers & Arms USAGet 20% off your purchaseLink: https://brothersandarms.comPromo Code: Transition20Trident CoffeeGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://tridentcoffee.comPromo Code: TDP15GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15Human Performance TRTGet 30% off your purchaseWeb: https://hptrt.com/Promo Code: TDP

Round 75 –Transition Tips for Veterans & First RespondersIf the job hunt, leadership growth, or building independence after service feels uncomfortable… good. It means you're in the right place. This is Round 75 of Tactical Transition Tips, and today we lean into the idea that discomfort is the real training ground.• Close Range Group: Build rejection resilience. You're not your last job title.• Medium Range Group: Seek honest feedback. It's time to break the echo chamber.• Long Range Group: Run a No Help Week. Train like backup won't always be there.This episode helps military veterans and first responders take actionable steps in preparing for life after the uniform—with real tools for job search, leadership, and personal growth.Like, comment, and subscribe for weekly guidance on career transition, mindset, and post-service leadership.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:IG: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:SPONSORS:Brothers & Arms USAGet 20% off your purchaseLink: https://brothersandarms.comPromo Code: Transition20Trident CoffeeGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://tridentcoffee.comPromo Code: TDP15GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15

Life doesn't wait for your sense of closure. And neither should you. In this episode of The Mindset Debrief, we explore the illusion of completion and the myth that transformation only begins after clean endings. Growth, identity, and progress don't follow a script. If you've been waiting for the “right time” to move forward, this is your reminder: the next chapter begins the moment you decide it does. You don't need permission. You don't need certainty. You only need the courage to act now.In this episode, we explore the truth about transition and why growth begins before the story feels finished. If you're waiting for clarity, closure, or a ceremonial cue to begin again; you're already behind.This episode is for anyone stuck in the waiting room of life. It's for the ones who think they need permission to evolve. The truth? You already have the pen. And the next chapter won't wait for the last one to end.Key Themes:• The illusion of completion• Identity in motion• Owning the next chapter• Giving yourself permission• Letting go of the past• The truth about transitionSubscribe for weekly mindset insights focused on self-control, personal accountability, and showing up stronger every day.Share this episode with someone who's been waiting too long to begin.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:Instagram: WEBSITE: LinkedIn: SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:SPONSORS:GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15