Vet Pivot

HERE WE GO!!!The 'Co-Show Fo Sho' has Matt and Dynamite in the Lone Star State to celebrate Episode 100 with the fellas at the Freedom Friends Podcast. This show hits hard with some great conversation, some ridiculous conversation, some degenerate conversation and then some Army stuff. Nevertheless, we hit hard topics like going months without being employed, the feelings of isolation post service, education and its true value and we even talk about money.Don't miss this celebratory get together from the set of the Freedom Friends Podcast inside the warehouse of Warfighter Tobacco in San Antonio, Texas.

Julian Torres is a Marine Corps veteran who saw his career in the service ended when he stepped on an IED which cost him his legs. That did not stop him however, as he has gone on to climb mountains both figuratively and literally. Today he is a stay at home dad and runs the Coffee with Julian Podcast.Can't say enough good things about this conversation. One real good question that came from it - what cookie would you get up at 2 AM for?

Mikey Fahey is a Marine Corps and six combat tour veteran who wears several hats. Dynamite came across him at the Mammoth Sniper Challenge as he represented his day job with Grunt Style doing special events. On top of that he works with our friend and Vet Pivot alumni, Scott Jenson from Warfighter Tobacco as they co-host the Freedom Friends podcast. Don't miss this great conversation as the guys go into topics from Hand Sanitizer preference, drinking on school nights, deployment stories vs. barracks stories and how to keep your chin up on the job hunt. The episode is authentically veteran. Share it with a friend.

Chris Nowak is a Marine Corps Veteran and amputee who moved from a 19 year career at the Department of Veterans Affairs to running the Veteran and Military Liaison role for Professional Golf Association of America (PGA) HOPE (Helping our Heroes Everywhere) program.HOPE provides free golf pro lessons to Veterans, assigning them by region and giving them the opportunity to engage and interact in a friendly environment while introducing them to the game of golf. Veterans can inquire about the HOPE program through PGA HOPE website at pgareach.org

Scott M. Davidson CPT. USA, Retired has more than 14 years of professional consulting and contracts management experience supporting Federal Government Contractors. Scott is the Managing Principal at The GCO Consulting Group (GCO) a growing Service Disabled Veteran Owned Business that is focused on GSA Schedule Consulting, Federal Business Development Strategy, and Federal Contract Compliance Support to small and large businesses.In his role at GCO, Scott provides specialized management consulting expertise in GSA Schedule Contracting Compliance, Federal Contract Management & Compliance services and Federal Proposal and Business Development support for all sizes of business from Small Businesses to Fortune 500 clients. Scott has prepared, negotiated and had awarded over 500 GSA Schedules since starting the firm in 2009. Scott’s focus areas also include GSA Schedule audit and litigation support and has provided audit and data analysis support for GSA Schedules for clients responding to over 30 GSA Office of the Inspector General investigations in which the disposition of findings was favorable for the clients.Prior to GCO, Scott served as the Director of GSA Schedules for the URS Corporation (Ranked 248 on the Fortune 500) in which he was responsible for the management and contract compliance of URS’s Federal Division’s GSA Schedules Program Office. Scott was responsible for the management of all the Federal Services GSA Schedules which generated over $300M a year in revenue for the company.Bourbiz.com: Scott Davidson, Justin Constantine and Isabella Edelman teamed up to start VSRG in 2014. The longtime friends, veterans and entrepreneurs aimed to create a one-stop shop that connects veterans with the knowledge, resources and contacts they need to achieve success after service.But the idea that led to VSRG and BOURBIZ dates to about a decade earlier. As Davidson and Constantine recovered from injuries that ended their military careers, they discussed their difficulties negotiating a deluge of organizations, services and headhunters. Together they wondered how service members with fewer resources managed to find the right person at the right organization.After years of planning, VSRG and BOURBIZ held their inaugural event in New York City in 2014. Through a process of trial-and-error, the expos have grown and expanded. Our most recent expo attracted more than 1,400 attendees to MGM National Harbor. In 2020, locations in California and Nevada will be added to a roster of host cities that includes San Antonio, Washington, New York and Tampa.Scott served honorably in the United States Army as both enlisted soldier and a commissioned Officer and has served multiple combat tours throughout Southwest Asia to include Iraq and Afghanistan and is the recipient of the Bronze Star Medal. Scott was Medically Retired from the United States Army during his tour in Iraq in 2007.

Scott, from Warfighter Tobacco, joins the guys on the show to talk about transition from the military, entrepreneur lessons learned, exiting the firearms industry and taking up cigars.Warfighter Tobacco Company, LLC, is owned and operated by combat Veterans. We aren't even close to heroes, but we have been lucky enough to get to know, and serve with, a bunch of ass-kickers who are.

Sean Tobias Ambriz is a Los Angeles native and Active Duty Soldier who has survived two gruesome battles in Afghanistan. In his book, "Ghosts of the Valley", Sean relives the battles and speaks about his leader defining moment which has helped shape his career as a NCO.

Jason is the Founder and CEO of GORUCK, which manufactures gear in the USA and executes over 900 endurance events per year led by decorated combat Veterans of Special Operations. Jason holds a B.A. in Economics from Emory University in Atlanta, where he was Phi Beta Kappa and a two-time Academic All-American for Tennis. He is a 2006 Graduate of the Special Forces Qualification Course and recipient of a Bronze Star and Army Commendation Medal with “V” Device earned while serving on ODA 042 during Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2007. After founding GORUCK in 2008, Jason got his MBA from Georgetown University in 2011, where he was a John F. Connelly Scholar. Jason has supported the Green Beret Foundation since inception by raising several hundreds of thousands of dollars for the foundation and every year graciously donates GORUCK GR1s for the foundation's Casualty Support Program. He lives in Atlantic Beach, Florida with his wife Emily, their three kids, and celebrity rock star dog, Monster.GORUCK: We build the best, toughest rucking gear to equip the rucking revolution — we force multiply through training, Events, and GORUCK Clubs that empower real world communities in service to something greater than themselves.

Matt and Dynamite recap episodes 81 through 91 and provide some transition advice for the listeners.

Sean Karpf is a Strength and Conditioning Associate with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Prior to that he was a Soldier in the United States Army, which he joined to help provide for his young family. During Sean's second deployment with the 82nd Airborne, he stepped on a pressure plate IED and was taken out of the fight. During his road to recovery he was faced with a difficult decision on whether or not to try and salvage his leg or become a below the knee amputee. After deliberation with his wife and a visit from another wounded warrior while he was in Walter Reed, he made the call to go through with the amputation. Sean recovered from surgery and was given the opportunity to intern with the Jacksonville Jaguars, his hometown team. Fulfilling multiple roles throughout his time as an intern, he was able to learn more about the organization and make long lasting relationships. After the Jaguars loss to the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game, Sean went in to clean out his locker and say bye to everyone. But the team had bigger plans and Head Coach Tom Coughlin offered him a permanent position on the Strength and Conditioning staff. Sean has proven that hard work and discipline can carry you towards your goals and success.

Herb is the Best Selling Author of "The Transition Mission: A Green Beret's approach to transition from military service. He's also a former Army Drill Sergeant of the Year, Green Beret leader and is currently performing as a management consultant while completing his Masters of Business Administration from Cornell University.

Sandy works as an author, instructor, consultant, and willing contributor of expertise when it comes to helping people, start-ups, and structured organizations transform and transition in order to reach and exceed their goals. Sandy is a life-long learner and has been a consultant in various forms of Project & Program Management for close to four decades. She currently owns and operates Monster Smarts, dedicated to offering career coaching as well as helping small to medium organizations work to assess and deliver prescriptive recommendations for improvement on profitability, processes, efficiency, and employee health. Her volunteer focus has been primarily with the Project Management Institute (PMI), where she has been a member for over 15 years serving at both the chapter and global levels. She is a wife of a 30 year USAF veteran and spent 10 years as a DoD contractor at 2 Combatant Commands (US Central Command and US Special Operations Command). Sandy co-founded GR8Transitions4U with Jay Hicks, and together they are recognized throughout the U.S. as Military Transition advocates. To date they have written and published six books in the Military Transition series. With over 5000 books in circulation, the series is available to military members in transition around the world seeking a smooth transition, and the expanse is growing. Sandy and Jay were key influencers in the Project Management Institute adopting a National Military Liaison program specifically designed to help Veterans work to achieve a fulfilling career in Project Management. Sandy’s current book released on Veterans Day 2020 is entitled “The Transitioned Veteran: Success Beyond Service.” It is a compilation of stories by Veterans sharing their journey of transitioning from the military to the corporate world. These are real stories from real Veterans revealing their own fears, successes, failures, resourcefulness, perseverance, and just-do-it attitude while working to find that next job in a culture foreign to what many had expected.

Mike Ergo served as a Marine rifleman with 1st Battalion, 8th Marines from 2001-2005 and deployed to Iraq twice. Coming home from combat was rough and his body returned, but his mind and spirit were still in Fallujah for many years. His story is truly inspirational.During the week, Mike works as a readjustment counselor and helps fellow combat veterans make positive changes in their own lives. In his spare time, when he isn't being a father and a husband, Mike trains for Ironman competitions which he runs for Gold Star Families. He also hosts two podcasts, "Transitions From War" which is geared towards veteran transition and "AGE Groupies" which is for those interested in all things Triathlons.

Eric Mitchell and an all-star series of guests who get straight To the Point every weekday, addressing the biggest stories in news, politics, pop culture, and entrepreneurship, now available through the C-Suite network nationwide. Now you can get directly To the Point every day.

Jason Murff is an Army veteran and the founder of Grill Your Ass Off, a spice and rub company that makes amazing products that elevate the taste of your meat.About them from their websiteGrill Your Ass Off has been sent on a mission to make your meat the best tasting thing you have ever put in your mouth. Owner, Jason Murff after spending time in the US Army as an Infantryman wanted a way to give back to the veteran community; so each one of our bottles of seasonings will proudly support a true non-profit veteran organization or event. Each of our products is designed with a military theme so it can give you and a friend a laugh or bring back a great memory. Every one of our bottles is made in Texas with pride so you can taste the freedom.

DISCLAIMER - This podcast is powerful, and the story within may bring up memories/feelings for Veterans and Service Members. If you ever need to talk please reach out to matt@vetpivot.com or dave@vetpivot.com - we've got your six.Ric Hannon is a Los Angeles native who joined the United States Army following the death of his brother, a Marine who made the ultimate sacrifice in battle. Ric sought answers to his pain and dives into that story on air, showing the courage and vulnerability of a true leader. Since leaving the military, Ric has dedicated himself to becoming the first member of his family to graduate college, which he achieved at UNC Wilmington. Since then, he has worked with the VA Administration in North Carolina, volunteered at the Physical Therapy clinic on the weekends and hosts a podcast with a fellow former Soldier called "Regular Infantry Guys".The RIG podcast is geared towards assisting soldiers in transition from the military to civilian life, and continuing the authentic conversations which inspire others to have the courage to seek help.

Eli Bravo is an active duty US Marine from the Rio Grande Valley in South Texas. His original songs are a combination of blues, folk, and rock & roll styles. The debut single “Carry me Home” is now available on all streaming platforms. Born in San Benito, Texas, he grew up listening to the regional sounds of Tejano, Country, Blues Rock, and Mariachi music. Although he learned how to play the guitar in high school having performed in mariachi and his local church’s praise and worship bands, he enlisted in the USMC and left for a military life in 2001. Throughout the years he has played for many of his friends from Iwakuni Japan, the Pacific Northwest, K-Bay, Cherry Point, and the in Low Country. Eli Bravo credits his ability to play guitar for keeping him grounded and optimistic when things got really dark. It was while he was stationed in Austin, Tx from 2009-2012 that he was inspired to begin writing his own words and music. “I just saw so many great artists come through SXSW, Austin City Limits, and other venues. They would tell me the same thing” he says. “If I have a passion for what I am writing, and a drive for putting in the work, I can do the same.” Now stationed in Okinawa Japan, Eli Bravo, armed with an arsenal of Japanese guitars, is bringing years of experience back to the very streets that shaped his growth as a young man. “I write songs about leaving for the travelers, workers, warriors, and scumbags that can’t always put their emotions into words.”

Errol Doebler joins the guys for a second hour of discussion picking up from Episode 79-------------------------Errol Doebler is a 1991 Graduate of the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD. During his time as a Naval Officer, Errol served as Assistant Operations Officer onboard the USS Monongahela, Assistant Platoon Commander at SEAL Team FOUR, and a Platoon Commander at Seal Team ONE.After spending time in the private sector as a sales leader, Errol joined the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) where he investigated International Terrorist Organizations out of the FBI’s flagship office in New York City and also served as a member of the FBI’s New York SWAT Team. Because of his background and experience, Errol was attached to the United States Army’s 75th Ranger Regiment while serving as a Special Agent for the FBI. While deployed to Afghanistan in 2010 with the 75th Ranger Regiment, Errol participated in extensive combat operations and was subsequently presented with the FBI’s second highest award for valor, the Shield of Bravery, for his actions on the battlefield.Errol left the FBI after 13 years of service to begin his leadership consulting firm, Leader 193, in 2016. Errol has worked with executives and teams from Fortune 100 companies, professional sports organizations, small technical startups, and individual executives across a vast array of industries around the world as the Founder of Leader 193.Learn More about Errol and Leader 193Find the video for this episode on the Vet Pivot YouTube channel.

In 2016, Kelsi started B&U to help save her fellow soldiers lives, or at least try to give them a second chance. After serving on the front lines in Afghanistan (Infantry & Artillery) at 18 years old and losing many of her friends during battle, she came home with severe PTSD. After 7 years of anger and pain Kelsi decided to use her struggle for good, and try to help others through their struggle.This episode dives into Kelsi the Veteran, the Mother, the Wife, the Entrepreneur and captures the depth of the person Kelsi Sheren. When we leave the military we are not defined by it, and she works tirelessly to help others in our community realize that through her beautiful jewelry and positive mindset. Kelsi is truly there to talk and will not disappoint!

Tom Connally, is an experienced leader, strategist, and change agent with provenperformance leading, building, and fixing organizations by creating a culture ofperformance. Raised in a Navy family with two WWII Veterans for parents, Tombecame a student of leaders at a young age. He followed his older brothers tothe Naval Academy and into the Marine Corps. As a young officer, he observedthat the performance of units was directly related to the culture, esprit, and workethic. The best units, including his, had an attitude of confidence that madeevery objective attainable and in which every Marine believed they were valuedand desired to excel. This culture of performance permeated every individualand started with the commander.As a senior commander and chief staff officer, Tom put all of these lessonsto work with exceptional results in combat organizations and staff agencies.After 30 years of applying these principles in the Marine Corps, Tom spentfive years observing their consistent results in the defense industry beforefounding Connally Consulting to help leaders and organizations improve theirperformance and success. Tom is also the author of the book Becoming a Leader:A Road Map for My Daughter and the Aspiring Leader.Learn More about Tom by checking out his website Check Tom out on Social MediaInstagram @connally_consultingFacebook /247LeadershipYouTube /TomConnally

Matt and Dynamite catch up on all things Season 2 The guys recap their Top 3 episodes so far and you will be surprised by who they pick. Then they jump into the leadership principles of Vet Pivot: Lead Yourself, Lead Your Family and Lead Your Community. As promised, there was a review of some Veteran News, including some information and buyer beware for GI Bill use. Matt discussed the employment opportunities that exist, dispelling the myth that the market is dry and minimizing the 6.4 percent Veteran unemployment rate at the end of September. Finally, Matt and Dynamite get into what to expect from the next ten episodes and shout out the best Dad Jokes provided on the Vet Pivot social media channels.

Errol Doebler is a 1991 Graduate of the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD. During his time as a Naval Officer, Errol served as Assistant Operations Officer onboard the USS Monongahela, Assistant Platoon Commander at SEAL Team FOUR, and a Platoon Commander at Seal Team ONE.After spending time in the private sector as a sales leader, Errol joined the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) where he investigated International Terrorist Organizations out of the FBI’s flagship office in New York City and also served as a member of the FBI’s New York SWAT Team. Because of his background and experience, Errol was attached to the United States Army’s 75th Ranger Regiment while serving as a Special Agent for the FBI. While deployed to Afghanistan in 2010 with the 75th Ranger Regiment, Errol participated in extensive combat operations and was subsequently presented with the FBI’s second highest award for valor, the Shield of Bravery, for his actions on the battlefield.Errol left the FBI after 13 years of service to begin his leadership consulting firm, Leader 193, in 2016. Errol has worked with executives and teams from Fortune 100 companies, professional sports organizations, small technical startups, and individual executives across a vast array of industries around the world as the Founder of Leader 193.Learn More about Errol and Leader 193Find the video for this episode on the Vet Pivot YouTube channel.

Space Force is an all veteran Hip-Hop trio composed of rappers D.Cure, The Marine Rapper, & Topher. The group has been on Vet Pivot before in their own separate episodes, however today they join Matt and Dynamite to talk shop. Check them out on SpotifyLink to World War CypherVet Pivot Episodes with TMREpisode 2Episode 33Episode 50Vet Pivot Episodes with D. CureEpisode 50Episode 53Vet Pivot Episodes with TopherEpisode 50Episode 67

Jon "JP" Farnam is a Marine Corps veteran and former Commanding Officer of Marine Corps Air Station Miramar. An FA-18 pilot, JP did 26 years before retiring from the Marine Corps. During his time in command of MCAS Miramar, he oversaw 2,500+ personnel and an installation plant value of $2.8 billion. Today he has transitioned into a Chief Operations Officer role for KAB Medical Group in San Diego, CA. In addition to his work, he is the Chairman of the Board for Support The Enlisted Project (STEP), a non-profit focused on the financial wellbeing of junior enlisted service members and their families in the Southern California Region. E-6 and below enlisted service members in Southern California live at or below the poverty level. STEP's mission is to rapidly respond in times of extreme financial crisis (eviction, repossession, food insecurity, etc.) to resolve the crisis with financial support and then provide a financial education and plan to avoid further crisis. Learn more about Support The Enlisted ProjectFurthermore, JP is a board member for Angels of America's Fallen, a phenomenal non-profit that is focused on the children of military members and first responders who have lasttheir lives. Angels of America's Fallen is focused on the Children of fallen US service members and first responders. In particular, Angels covers the expense associated with actives outside of the home such as sports, clubs, music lessons, etc. that allow the children to learn new activities, compete in healthy environments and engage with positive influencers outside of their home. Angels support these children until their 18th birthday. Learn More about Angels of America's FallenThis is a great episode which follows the threads of Vet Pivot transition principles: LeadYourself, Your Family, and Your Community.For video of this episode go to the Vet Pivot YouTube channel.

Andrew Beltran is a Marine Corps Veteran and Co-Founder of Original Grain - a badass watch company that uses sustainable hardwoods and stainless steel to create timepieces that stand out from the crowd. Andrew takes Matt and Dynamite through his story and shares some insight into what drives him to be successful.More from the Original Grain websiteAbout:Inspired by their Pacific Northwest roots - and trusting their instincts to trailblaze - brothers Ryan and Andrew Beltran set forth on a mission in 2013: Create an entirely unique timepiece out of wood and steel.The seamless fusion of all-natural, sustainable hardwoods and stainless steel proved to be an instant and enduring smash, both on Kickstarter and in the wild, but it was the bold stroke to use reclaimed wood - wood with a story - that redefined what one should expect from a watch.Painstakingly preserving the character and patterns ingrained in each piece of timber - be it from Kentucky Bourbon barrels or Yankee™ Stadium seats - means every timepiece is a one of its kind, born to chronicle your accomplishments and built to withstand them.With an unwavering commitment to authenticity, innovation, and next-level craftsmanship, Original Grain has emerged as a world-class creator of watches and accessories, advancing the limits of what wood and steel can achieve.Check out Andrew's Instagram @ajb_11 or @originalgrainSee video of today's interview on YouTube

Robin Kelleher currently serves as President and CEO of Hope For The Warriors®, the organization she co-founded in 2006. Robin’s entrepreneurship, leadership, and passion has led this highly successful once grassroots effort to national heights, raising over $53M and significantly impacting the wounded and fallen military communities. Robin is responsible for developing and implementing the strategic direction of the organization, providing budgetary and mission-focused guidance to the growing staff of Hope For The Warriors®. She works directly with the Board of Directors and plays a key role in developing the board, ensuring the future of the organization. She maintains complete oversight of all operations.Robin is a member of the Greater Washington Board of Trade and serves on their Membership Committee, Health & Wellness Solution Group, and Executive Leadership Committee, as well as a member of the Defense Advisory Committee on Women in the Services (DACOWITS). She also sits on the Military Family and Veterans Service Organizations of America (MFVSOA) Board of Directors, the Virginia Chamber’s Military & Veterans Affairs Executive Committee, and the Advisory Council of Blue Star Families. She is also a Charity Navigator Nonprofit Advisor. Robin has worked extensively with military families, caring for family units during multiple deployments as the wife of a Marine. Additionally, her experiences as the daughter and granddaughter of United States Soldiers (dating back to World War II) have given her a unique insight into the needs of service members and their families.Previously, Robin founded and operated two successful for-profit businesses and one nonprofit organization. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business and Economics from Randolph Macon College and Certificate in Executive Leadership from Duke University. Robin resides in Northern Virginia with her family.

Tommy is a former US Navy Diver and Founder of the popular lifestyle brand 15 Fathoms. He is also an alumnist of the Vet Pivot podcast and a blast to talk to. In this episode Tommy talks through lessons learned as his business hits an important milestone this week: 5 years in business. Go purchase your own 15 Fathoms gear Be sure to follow us on Instagram and YouTube!!!

Matt and Dynamite get to talking about education falacies among the military and working professional ranks, a theme of the next month or so of the show. ThenMatthew Mitchelson, President of Lazy Lab Hunting Club joins the guys to discuss the organization and some of the direction that they are taking.Help them raise $15,000 to support upcoming events for wounded heroes by donating directly through their website https://LazyLabHC.orgAs always - follow us on Facebook/Instagram and subscribe for new episode alerts on YouTube and wherever you listen to podcasts.

Dr. Shauna Springer, Psychologist and author of Warrior: How to Support Those Who Protect Us joins Matt and Dynamite to dive deep into what makes Warrior's struggle with seeking help. Dynamite is a former patient of Doc Springer and the conversation gets really good - don't miss it and tell your friends to tune in.Check out Doc Springer's website to stay up to date on everything she has going on!!!Get the video of this episode at the Vet Pivot YouTube channel!!!

Season 2 kicks off with a bang, as Dynamite Dave Cascante joins the studio as part of the Vet Pivot team. Matt outlines what listeners can expect for this year and dives into where he was for 6 weeks since the end of Season 1. Do not miss this!Lazy Lab Hunting Club seeks to help veterans and active service members heal through connection of the great outdoors and fellowship. Donate to their cause through their website https://lazylabhc.org/Follow us on social media @vetpivot

Andy Manzi is the founder and director of the Warrior Surf Foundation. They are a non-profit that is dedicated to changing the lives of Veterans and their families through connecting with the ocean by surfing and physical healing through surf and yoga instruction. In their 4+ years of existence they have impacted more than 400 veterans and raised over $400,000 to benefit the lives of those veterans and their families.Find out more through their websiteWARRIOR SURF MISSION: ENHANCING THE PHYSICAL AND MENTAL WELLBEING OF VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES THROUGH SURF THERAPYInstagram: @warriorsurf

John Hawley is a Navy Veteran and Facilitation Jedi who has helped thousands of organizations build strategic thinking power and team work. He also has a fondness for Express socks and has degrees and certificates from esteemed institutions such as Virginia Tech, Stanford, US Navy, US Air Force, and LEGO....boom!Find him on LinkedIn hereFacebook hereInstagram hereTwitter here

Tripp is a Marine Corps veteran, author of Smoke Pit Fair Tales and artist who brings his unique I don't give a damn about your sensitivities to everything he does. He is uniquely himself, and you get nothing less than that when you engage with him. Awesome conversation.Guest BIO from https://smokepitfairytales.comTripp, who sexually identifies as an American twin-engine attack helicopter, was genetically engineered in a laboratory in Florida. He cut himself from the womb with a rotary blade so he could put veteran's day on his birth certificate and forever have the day off work. He then ran away to be raised by badgers at the gates of Tartarus.After living by the mantra "If it bleeds, we can kill it," and watching the Battle of Fallujah on TV he promptly joined the Marine Corps as a combat cameraman so he could steal the souls of those killed by the Marines he was with. He deployed to Afghanistan with 2/7 and 3/4 in '08, and '09-'10 respectively, then went on a couple of MEUs so he could drink on the ocean and anger sailors by calling their ship a "boat."Tripp spent his decade in the Corps drinking rum, crushing the hopes and dreams of mortals, and chain smoking. He has multiple awards for books he hasn't even written, once deadlifted a battleship, outwitted a sphinx, knows Vicky's secret (it's that she has a penis), is an award winning photographer, and at all times has been the best guitar player in the barracks. Did I mention he's handsome and has a glorious mustache?​He's a great storyteller, specializing in fairytales and bullsh*t. About the only thing he doesn't have is a TV show based on his books (looking at you NETFLIX.) He hopes that you enjoyed this book, but if you didn't it doesn't matter. He already has your money and is currently spending it on strippers, cigarettes, and alcohol.

Multi-talented Hip-Hop Artist now political TikTok star, Christopher “Topher” Townsend is dedicated to seeking solutions to a brighter future for the entire citizenry. A native of Mississippi Delta, Topher is making a huge difference in the music industry with his unconventional music style. Topher ventured into politics in November 2019, having discovered his passion for empowerment and fostering positive growth in the society. Transitioning into the political sector has been a remarkable journey for him as it provides him the opportunity to serve people.Topher uses politics as a platform to eradicate the traditional paradigm of biased information and rumors. A natural leader, he seeks to make amends to failing political systems, thereby bringing stability to the people. Topher also draws from his love for seeing people entertained to restoring hope to them with his capability. He is passionate about giving back to the local communities and strives to create opportunities where people can thrive socially and economically. Topher’s political career holds tremendous promises for both him and his people.Donate to Topher's platform here and join Vet Pivot's already $200 donation.

Tom Wolfe is an author, columnist, career coach, veteran, and an expert in the field of military-to-civilian career transition.During his career he assisted thousands of service members in their searches for employment, placing more than 3000 in their new jobs.Prior to civilian life, he graduated from the U. S. Naval Academy and served as a surface warfare officer and admiral’s aide. He teaches transition courses, gives seminars on career and job change, writes about the career transition process, and continues to counsel current and former military personnel.He is a regular contributor to Military.com, Stripes.com, Military Transition News, Civilian Job News, TAOnline.com, Military Wife Network, and Veterans of Modern Warfare. His book, Out of Uniform: Your Guide to a Successful Military-to-Civilian Career Transition, was published in 2012 by University of Nebraska Press/Potomac Books, with multiple subsequent printings and a second edition published in 2018.

Tom is a Navy Veteran and the Chief Evangelist Officer for Interview Valet. His bio from the company website https://interviewvalet.com/vetpivot:Tom Schwab knows how to build an online business. He’s done it successfully several times, and now helps others find online success with podcast interview marketing.Marketing at its heart is starting a conversation with someone who could be an ideal customer. Tom helps thought leaders (coaches, authors, speakers, consultants, emerging brands) get featured on leading podcasts their ideal prospects are already listening to. The Interview Valet system then helps them to turn listeners into customers.The author of Podcast Guest Profits: Grow Your Business with a Targeted Interview Strategy, Tom is also Founder/CEO of Interview Valet, the category king of Podcast Interview Marketing.

Robert MacPhee is the creator of the Excellent Decisions leadership program and the author of Manifesting for Non-Gurus: How to Quickly & Easily Attract Lasting Results . He has spent the last 15 years working in change facilitation and leadership development. Previously, he collaborated with Jack Canfield (creator of the Chicken Soup for the Soul book series) as the Director of Training for the Canfield Training Group. Robert honed his practical leadership strategies serving as an executive at a variety of large companies and partnering with a number of entrepreneurial ventures. Robert’s first endeavor after graduating from the University of California, San Diego was a summer job that he and his partner built into a company with 400 employees and millions of dollars in revenue.

Matthew Mitchelson is active duty Navy and one of the founders of Lazy Lab Hunting Club a non-profit that heals the hearts of warriors through the great outdoors. LLHC facilitates high-quality hunting and fishing expeditions for current and former service members, wounded warriors and their families, and surviving families of fallen heroes in order to rebuild self-confidence, assist in healing emotional wounds, and provide an exciting and memorable experience.You can support an upcoming expedition by going to their website https://lazylabhc.org/give/

Nick was born in Hollywood Florida. He spent his childhood training to be Batman and planning his next big adventure. He grew up on the move and lived in 5 states by the time he was twelve. This only made him more adaptable and comfortable with integrating into any environment.His teen years took a turn and were rocky to say the least. Nick was forced into juvenile detention at the age of twelve. After shaking his past Nick needed to find a new direction.Nick joined the Marine Corps at 19 but not without a fight. Because of his troubled youth, Nick had to seek legal counsel just to be accepted. He suffered from a wrist injury within his first week of bootcamp. He spent five and a half months in basic training but graduated company honor grad. It was his perseverance through adversity that set the tone for his future and a foreshadowing of things to come.Nick went on to become a 12 year Special Operations Marine Corps veteran with Marine Reconnaissance and Marine Special Operations Command. He has deployed in support of OIF/OEF and other places all over the world. Has trained foreign police, military, and militia in several countries.His military career prepared him for successful leadership and strategic operational planning. Nick is the founder and CEO of Alexander Industries as well as a successful adventure + informational YOUTUBE channel with his partner Alison Capra. From adventures to Iceland to concealed carry handgun tips, this channel is a peak into Nick's daily life as a VLOG.Nick has heart for his community first and foremost. It is his life mission to see his brother's successful. Nick started The Raider Project. His mission is to connect with MARSOC and other USMC combat veterans to help them transition smoothly, peacefully and successfully into the private sector. Nicholas also recently started Robin Hood Pictures. This is a project his is very passionate about. He set out to produce movies FOR THE PEOPLE. Without a religious or political agenda. Movies that set us apart for telling the stories of the men who have given everything for their country. Men who have altered the course of our history. To paint a picture of the struggle with a transition from the wages of war. His hopes that the movie he produces will be an eye opening portrayal of what our modern day veterans are facing. These stories don't always have happy endings, but they have significant ones. Nick hopes to inspire action for the veteran community and celebrate their successes. A life of adventure and excitement. Nick resides in North Carolina with his wife and business partner of Alexander Industries, Alison. They own Snap Fitness, Ship On Site, A Coffee Company, Survival and Tactical Systems, and Miserable Cows and is co-owner of Johnny Slicks and organic grooming essentials company. Nick is a self-published author Ex-Communicated Warrior, 7-Stages of Transition, and co-author of fitness training books: USMC Prep, Recon Prep, and Marine Raider Prep. He has two beautiful daughters and a handsome dog, Leo. He spends his free time on the water or traveling to see his family in Greece.

Charlynda Scales is an Air Force Reservist and Founder of the Sauce Company - Mutt's Sauce. Featured on CNBC, Yahoo Finance and other venues, Charlynda has made her Grandad's Sauce famous using the mission "My Legacy is My Why". Tune in to hear how Mutt's Sauce started with her Grandad in 1953 and how it became a full-time company in 2013. The journey is as good as the sauce.To order Mutt's Sauce go to www.muttssauce.com

Daniel Hance is an Army Veteran and the Founder/CEO of The Catalyst, a program that is designed to help veterans transition into meaningful roles upon completion of their program. Daniel developed The Catalyst during his own struggles with transitioning into the civilian space. In 2017, Daniel took the leap and launched The Catalyst.

Scott Tucker, US Army Veteran and founder of US Vet Wealth joins me again on the Vet Pivot podcast to talk about what's new in his world.

Over the course of her career thus far, Jessica has been lucky enough to work for many companies, big and small, which allowed her to hone a wide range of content marketing skills. Thanks to her diverse background, she's able to bring a holistic view of content marketing to all the work she does. Jessica does an excellent job of helping her clients realize the power of their brand along with organic marketing. In this episode we discuss the mindset of a veteran or anybody making an industry transition. Tune in and tell your friends.https://jessicathiefels.com/about-me/

In 2015, Natalie became immersed in mentoring within the military space and fell in love with it. For more than 10 years, Natalie worked as a Corporate Recruiter across multiple industries and specialties. She recognized a gap between what the military was able to prepare service-members for, and what they needed in order to be successful post-military.As she became immersed in the military space outside of the service, she recognized how so many transitioning service members, veterans, and military spouses weren’t prepared to be successful post-military. She wanted to fill this gap and help our nation’s heroes find their career path.https://militarytalentpartners.com

Matt Kellam is the Military and Recruitment Program Coordinator at Dominion Energy. He's also a veteran of the United States Marine Corps and an all around awesome guy. There are a ton of valuable lessons on why the energy sector makes sense for Veterans!

Matt Louis is a US Army Lt. Colonel (Ret) and the Author of Mission Transition - an amazing in depth field manual on military to civilian transition. Do not attempt to transition without it.

Dan Goldenberg was appointed as the executive director for the Call of Duty Endowment and an Activision Blizzard Vice President in 2013. Goldenberg, a retired Navy Captain, brings to the job 27 years of active and reserve military service and more than a decade of business experience – including serving as a Sr. Vice President at Frost & Sullivan and prior to that as a senior director and practice manager at CEB (now Gartner). Highlights of his military service include four tours as a commanding officer, carrier-based naval flight officer, and special assistant to four Secretaries of the Navy: John Dalton, Richard Danzig, Robin Pirie and Gordon England. He holds several individual and campaign awards, including the Defense Superior Service Medal.Under his leadership the Call of Duty Endowment has risen to become the largest philanthropic funder of veteran employment, backing more than 66,000 high-quality job placements. For his work in support of veteran employment, he was named to The Mighty 25: Veterans to Watch in 2017.Goldenberg is a graduate of the United States Naval Academy, National Intelligence University, Harvard Business School and the Air Command and Staff College. His strong personal connection to veterans and understanding first-hand the impact they can have in the civilian workforce drive the Endowment’s efforts to place 100,000 veterans into high quality jobs by 2024.Visit https://callofdutyendowment.org to learn more about what Dan and his team are getting accomplished.

D. Cure is an Air Force veteran and recognized Hip-Hop artist fresh off his release of his new album Clean. Additionally, he makes up one part of the three member group Space Force and is featured in the Vet Pivot theme music. D. Cure has an incredible story about his journey and triumph over personal addiction and how he's been able to turn his life around post service.

Eric Hoffman is the Chief Operations Officer for EveryWarrior.org in Shreveport Louisiana. Matt and Eric worked together at Air Force Basic Military Training, and Eric went on to retire as a Major. He know works as a Defense Contractor by day, and helps Active Duty families access resources in the Shreveport area through his work with Every Warrior.

Craig Washburn is the founder of VTC - Veterans Tax Credit. VTC is a Veteran owned business that is helping to bridge the gap between Veterans and employers. They are the experts in the Workers Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC). They help Veterans get pre-certified and find gainful employment through their partnerships. Additionally, they help companies’ find outstanding Veteran talent and collect valuable tax credits for employing them.You can use the coupon code VETPIVOT when you create a profile on their platform for FREE.

Live recording of the 50th Episode of Vet Pivot from Friday, May 15, 2020 on YouTube and Facebook!!!