Episodios

  • Corporate Recruiters VS Veteran Resumes
    Mar 12 2025

    Summary

    In this conversation, the speakers discuss various topics related to military life, health, fitness, and the transition to civilian careers. They share personal experiences from basic training, the evolution of military training methods, and the challenges veterans face when writing resumes for civilian jobs. The importance of understanding military acronyms in a civilian context is highlighted, along with the role of applicant tracking systems in the hiring process. The conversation also touches on unconscious bias in hiring, the significance of awards and decorations, and the frustrations of candidate ghosting during interviews. Finally, the speakers offer resources for veterans seeking assistance with their resumes and interview preparation.

    Takeaways

    Health and fitness are crucial for maintaining energy levels as we age.
    Basic training experiences can vary significantly over the years.
    Military training has evolved to focus more on respect and professionalism.
    Transitioning from military to civilian life requires understanding how to present skills effectively.
    Resumes should be tailored to civilian job descriptions to stand out.
    Understanding military acronyms is essential for effective communication in civilian roles.
    Applicant tracking systems play a significant role in the hiring process.
    Unconscious bias can affect hiring decisions, making it important to present oneself clearly.
    Awards and decorations may not translate well in civilian job applications.
    Candidate ghosting is a frustrating issue for recruiters and applicants alike.

    Chapters

    00:00 The Importance of Physical Health
    03:05 Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life
    06:09 Basic Training Experiences and Changes
    09:11 Mindset and Motivation in Military Training
    11:57 The Role of HR in Military and Civilian Life
    15:00 Resume Writing for Veterans
    17:57 Understanding Military Acronyms in Civilian Contexts
    28:55 Understanding Resume Gaps and Achievements
    34:01 Quantifying Accomplishments for Impact
    39:55 Translating Military Experience to Civilian Terms
    45:15 The Role of Awards and Decorations in Resumes
    49:23 Navigating Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)
    56:53 The Importance of Tailoring Applications
    01:05:18 Offering Resume Review and Interview Prep Services


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    1 h y 7 m
  • VA Home Loan Debunked With Army Veteran Bridgette Simon
    Feb 26 2025

    VA Home Loan DEBUNKED! 🏡💰 | Military to Real Estate with Bridget Simon

    In this must-watch episode, we dive deep into the truth about VA home loans with special guest Bridget Simon, a veteran-turned-real-estate-expert who is on a mission to help fellow service members and veterans unlock the full potential of homeownership.

    💥 What You’ll Learn:
    ✅ The biggest misconceptions about VA loans—what’s fact and what’s pure myth?
    ✅ How veterans can leverage VA loans to buy homes with ZERO down!
    ✅ Smart strategies for military families looking to invest in real estate.
    ✅ Why education is the key to making the most of your VA benefits.
    ✅ How social media is shaping the real estate world and why it matters for veterans.
    ✅ The biggest challenges in today’s housing market and how to overcome them.
    ✅ Expert financial tips to help you build wealth through real estate.

    Bridget shares insider knowledge that every veteran and active-duty service member should know before buying a home. Don’t let misinformation hold you back from using one of the best home loan benefits available!

    🔔 Subscribe now and hit the bell to stay updated on real estate tips, VA loan facts, and expert insights! Drop a comment if you have questions or want to share your VA home-buying experience! 🇺🇸🏡💙

    Más Menos
    59 m
  • Vietnam Veteran: Finding Peace After Combat
    Feb 19 2025

    This episode of 'From Boots to Suits' features a heartfelt conversation about the journey of veterans transitioning to civilian life. The hosts discuss the importance of community support, share personal stories of struggle and redemption, and highlight the work of the San Antonio Coalition for Veterans and Families. The guest, Tony Fuentes, shares his experiences as a Vietnam veteran and his path to recovery, emphasizing the significance of faith, purpose, and helping others in the veteran community.

    takeaways

    • Transitioning from military to civilian life is a continuous journey.
    • Community support is crucial for veterans in need.
    • Personal stories of struggle can inspire others to seek help.
    • Finding purpose after service is essential for mental health.
    • The San Antonio Coalition for Veterans and Families provides immediate assistance.
    • Faith plays a significant role in recovery and healing.
    • Veterans often feel isolated; sharing experiences can help.
    • It's important to respond quickly to veterans in crisis.
    • Building a network of support can enhance resources available to veterans.
    • Helping others can lead to personal healing and fulfillment.

    Chapters

    00:00
    Introduction to the Journey of Transitioning Veterans

    01:47
    Doc's Story: A Vietnam Veteran's Journey

    11:43
    Finding Faith and Purpose After Struggles

    19:41
    Leadership and the San Antonio Coalition for Veterans

    25:18
    Innovative Support for Veterans in Crisis

    31:19
    Bridging the Gap: Community Support Initiatives

    34:43
    Fundraising Efforts: Making a Difference

    38:36
    Personal Journeys: Finding Purpose and Healing

    42:46
    Faith and Service: A Higher Calling

    45:15
    Connecting Those in Need: Resources and Support

    51:07
    Engaging the Community: Volunteering and Donations


    veterans, transition, support, community, recovery, purpose, San Antonio, coalition, mental health, faith

    Más Menos
    58 m
  • Silver Sage's Mission: Preventing Homelessness and Enhancing Veteran Lives With Art Crawford
    Feb 5 2025

    Summary

    This episode discusses the ongoing challenges veterans face when transitioning to civilian life, emphasizing the importance of support systems and resources available through nonprofits like Silver Sage. The conversation highlights various programs aimed at providing financial assistance, mental health support, and housing solutions for veterans, while also addressing the barriers they encounter in accessing these services. The hosts and guest Art Crawford share insights on the critical role of community outreach and the need for immediate assistance to prevent homelessness and improve the quality of life for veterans.

    Takeaways

    Transitioning from military to civilian life is a lifelong journey.
    Finding identity and purpose after service is crucial.
    Nonprofits play a vital role in supporting veterans.
    Immediate assistance can prevent homelessness and financial crises.
    Transportation issues significantly impact veterans' access to resources.
    Mental health and substance abuse are prevalent issues among veterans.
    Community outreach is essential for connecting veterans with resources.
    Financial assistance programs can help veterans get back on their feet.
    Housing instability is a major concern for many veterans.
    Collaboration among organizations can enhance support for veterans.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Life After the Military
    02:47 The Role of Silver Sage in Supporting Veterans
    05:40 Understanding Available Resources for Veterans
    08:19 Navigating Financial Assistance for Veterans
    11:06 Emergency Assistance and Quick Support
    14:08 Challenges in Accessing Housing and Treatment
    16:48 The Impact of Financial Strain on Veterans' Lives
    21:46 The Silent Battle of Veterans
    24:29 Navigating Support Systems and Resources
    27:49 Demographics and Challenges in Bandera County
    31:40 Transportation and Access to Services
    35:57 Self-Care in Nonprofit Work
    40:29 Community Outreach and Building Relationships
    45:15 Adapting to New Challenges During COVID-19
    47:55 Expanding Community Support Services
    53:05 Navigating Grant Challenges for Veterans
    57:43 The Importance of Meals on Wheels
    59:40 Building a Resource Center for the Community
    01:05:21 How to Support Local Initiatives

    Keywords

    veterans, transition, nonprofit, support, resources, financial assistance, mental health, housing, community, outreach



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    1 h y 13 m
  • Beyond the Uniform: Challenges and Triumphs in Civilian Transition
    Jan 29 2025

    Summary

    In this episode, John Gaona, Glenn Jr, and Rudy Skultety discuss the complex journey of transitioning from military to civilian life. They explore the challenges faced during the disability rating process, the importance of utilizing available resources, and the significance of networking. The conversation highlights the expectations versus reality in job offers, the lessons learned from job searching, and the difficulties of competing in the job market. They also touch on coping with stress, building a support network, and finding fulfillment after military service, emphasizing the need for preparation and realistic expectations during the transition.

    Takeaways

    Transitioning from military to civilian life can be complex.
    The disability rating process can take time and cause stress.
    Utilizing resources like DAV can significantly help veterans.
    Networking is crucial for finding job opportunities.
    Expectations for job offers may not align with reality.
    It's important to learn from job searching experiences.
    The job market can be competitive for veterans.
    Building a support network is essential during transition.
    Finding fulfillment after military service is a journey.
    Preparation and realistic expectations are key to a successful transition.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life
    03:04 Rudy's Military Journey and Retirement Experience
    05:56 Navigating the Hiring Our Heroes Program
    09:12 Leadership Transition: Military vs. Civilian
    11:59 Coping with Unrealistic Expectations Post-Military
    14:49 The Challenge of Finding Fulfillment in Civilian Jobs
    18:09 Adjusting to Civilian Work Culture
    20:58 Reflections on Career Preparation and Education
    23:51 Financial Realities and Health Care Challenges
    27:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts on Transitioning
    45:09 The Stress of Job Searching
    50:50 The Importance of Networking
    54:00 Navigating Transition and Identity Crisis
    01:02:46 Finding Contentment in Career
    01:10:44 Preparing for Transition from Military to Civilian Life
    01:18:42 2.mp4

    Keywords

    military transition, veterans, disability rating, job search, networking, resources for veterans, career expectations, support network, fulfillment after military, hiring our heroes


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    1 h y 19 m
  • Mission Ready: Navigating The Transition with Retired Army Veteran Joe Jeffrey
    Jan 23 2025

    Summary

    In this episode, John Gaona interviews Joe Jeffrey, a retired Army veteran with 21 years of service, who shares his journey of transitioning from military to civilian life. Joe discusses his military career, the challenges he faced as a career counselor, and the importance of programs like SkillBridge. He emphasizes the need for veterans to network, understand the job market, and manage their salary expectations while navigating their new civilian roles. Joe also highlights the significance of work-life balance and offers practical advice for service members preparing to leave the military.

    Takeaways

    Transitioning from military to civilian life is complex.
    Career counseling plays a crucial role in helping soldiers.
    SkillBridge provides valuable internship opportunities for service members.
    Networking is essential for finding job opportunities.
    Understanding the job market is key to a successful transition.
    Salary expectations may differ significantly from military pay.
    Work-life balance is important in civilian jobs.
    Veterans should be open to entry-level positions to gain experience.
    Community support can ease the transition process.
    Researching benefits and resources is vital for veterans.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Military Transition
    01:04 Joe Jeffrey's Military Journey
    03:09 The Role of a Career Counselor
    05:08 Challenges in Transitioning Soldiers
    09:07 SkillBridge: A Pathway to Civilian Life
    12:59 Adjusting to Civilian Life
    16:29 Building a Supportive Network
    22:05 Navigating SkillBridge Opportunities
    30:05 Navigating the Transition: Job Market Realities
    33:58 The Importance of Research in Career Moves
    36:26 Salary Expectations vs. Reality
    42:23 Work-Life Balance: Understanding the Trade-offs
    43:37 Networking and Building Connections
    46:51 The Reality of Being a Number in the Workforce
    48:38 Leaf Home: A Veteran-Friendly Workplace

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    56 m
  • Mission Ready: Veteran Strategies for a Civilian Career Transition
    Jan 15 2025

    Summary

    In this episode, John Gaona discusses the challenges and strategies for veterans transitioning from military to civilian life, focusing on education, job market research, resume writing, and interview techniques. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the job market, crafting a civilian-friendly resume, leveraging AI tools, and networking effectively. The conversation also highlights the significance of preparing for interviews and the need for a structured plan during the transition process.

    Takeaways

    Veterans can start school at non-traditional universities almost every month.
    Researching job markets is crucial for successful transitions.
    Crafting a civilian-friendly resume is essential for job applications.
    Networking can significantly enhance job search opportunities.
    Understanding the recruitment process helps in tailoring applications.
    AI tools can assist in optimizing resumes for job descriptions.
    Interviewing is a two-way street; candidates should assess fit.
    Quantifying achievements on resumes makes them stand out.
    A structured plan for the transition can lead to success.
    Continuous learning and adaptation are key in the civilian job market.

    Chapters

    00:00 Navigating Education Benefits for Veterans
    01:33 The Transition from Military to Civilian Life
    03:59 Understanding Job Markets and Research
    05:08 Crafting a Civilian-Friendly Resume
    06:19 The Reality of Job Applications and Recruiter Insights
    09:16 The Importance of Skills and Qualifications
    12:10 Overcoming Misconceptions as a Veteran
    14:55 The Role of Recruiters in the Hiring Process
    28:38 Quantifying Your Experience
    34:07 Leveraging AI for Job Applications
    35:32 Building Your Network on LinkedIn
    38:54 Researching Your Job Market
    42:45 Structuring Your Resume Effectively
    49:17 Interview Techniques and Strategies

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    1 h y 3 m
  • Finding Purpose After Service: Glenn Jr.'s Journey to Resilience and Redemption
    Dec 18 2024

    In this heartfelt episode of From Boots 2 Suits, Glenn Jr. opens up about his deeply personal journey from military service to civilian life. From boot camp in 1999 to a devastating back injury that altered his career, Glenn shares how he faced the struggles of transitioning out of the Navy, battled physical and mental health challenges, and ultimately found purpose and healing through faith, family, and fitness.

    Join hosts John Gaona and Glenn Jr. as they delve into the realities of leaving the military, losing the sense of brotherhood, and rediscovering purpose in a civilian world that often feels alien. Packed with raw emotions, real-life lessons, and actionable insights, this episode is a must-listen for veterans, spouses, and anyone navigating life after service.

    🔑 Topics covered:

    • Overcoming injuries and mental health struggles
    • The importance of finding purpose and building a support system
    • Recognizing and tackling self-medication and destructive habits
    • The transformative power of faith, family, and community


    🎙 Tune in for inspiration, practical advice, and a shared sense of community as we navigate the transition from *boots to suits*. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe!

    👉 [Visit our website for workshops and merch](https://www.fromboots2suits.com).
    All proceeds support our mission to provide resources for veterans and their families.

    Más Menos
    1 h y 6 m