FTU...Life after the military Podcast

Episode 16 - Julian...THE MARINE, part 1

In this episode I talk to Julian, a young Marine who decided to leave the military during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Julian discusses how he navigated the VA process on his own due to the problems he encountered from the pandemic.  He also explains how he prepared to leave the Marines and how he budgeted for the life after the military. This is part one of the discussion with Julian because he was busy taking care of business.  We will have the second part coming in the next few weeks.  We end the show with the customary "ZOT! ZOT! ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"

Episode 15 - Me - a health scare and resume tips

In this early morning Sunday episode I discuss how I indulged in sweets and it led to a health scare. I discuss the importance of physical health due to my age and family history. I follow that up with tips on job titles in resumes and how to set up a Linkedin profile.  I end the show with a mention of my grand baby and the farewell "ZOT! ZOT! ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"

Episode 14 - Big Albert - An Air Force Veterano

In this episode I hit the road and go out to visit my brother-in-law, Big Albert. We discuss his time in the Air Force and as a Los Angeles Police Officer.  We talk about his time in Egypt and the difficulties of serving during the 1980s. We also discuss his engagements with the VA department in his hometown.  We end the show with shout outs and the usual "ZOT! ZOT! ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"

Episode 13 - Me...FREEDOM!!

In this short episode I discuss the great feeling of having my terminal leave end and finally being free of the military.  I thank several people from my career. Then, I discuss why you shouldn't listen to anyone about the SBP option and life insurance. You decide what is best for you and your family. I close out the show with the customary "ZOT! ZOT! ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!" 

Episode 12 - Lance... conversation with a Real Hero, thank you

In this episode I talk to Lance.  He provides a great deal of insight on how to pursue a career as a JROTC instructor.  Lance explains the pay scale and the importance of negotiating the starting salary and using common sense when negotiating. Lance also explains how training young men and women is a reward in itself.  We discuss how individuals with PTSD can work as a JROTC instructor.  We end the show with the traditional "ZOT! ZOT! ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!"

Episode 11 - a Trip to Fayetteville Comic Con and words of wisdom from my granddaughter

In this episode I go out to Fayetteville Comic Con and encounter a veteran who has written several science fiction books and gives me some tips on Chapter 31 benefits. I talk about changing your mindset and viewing life from a different perspective. I discuss my friend Cody's journey to a new job in the military and how Lina wished him "to win and be a Champion". We don't use "good luck" anymore. I close the show with "ZOT! ZOT! ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"

Episode 10 - My long lost son, Austin

In this episode I go out to my friend's house and talk about the importance of taking care of ourselves.  Austin was in my last unit and medically retired a little over a year ago.  We discuss how he went about seeking help for his PTSD and how this improved his relationship with his family. We talk a bit about his venture into teaching and how it is not for everyone. We end the show with the usual "ZOT! ZOT! ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!"

Episode 9 - It’s Mr. Mitseff

In this episode I visit with a young man who made a big impression on me. Bill and I served together in my last unit and he has moved on to better things. He has a great deal of knowledge about using the VA benefits to purchase a home. We discuss the process of utilizing the VA benefits and how Bill might be able to assist people looking for a home loan. We discuss his decision to grow a beard and give the customary shout outs. As always, we end with "ZOT!ZOT!ZOT!" and "ROLL TIDE!!!"