Make Your Move with Gene Moran: Recent Episodes
Gene Moran
Are you looking to make your next professional move? Perhaps you're transitioning out of a life of military service, or you've entered industry, or you’ve started a business and you're looking to navigate what comes next.
On this show, Gene Moran, whose award-winning advisory work helps businesses achieve dramatic outcomes, has powerful conversations with individuals discussing the next move moves that mattered in their careers, and shares behind the scenes moves (big and small) that have allowed him, and his clients to really move the needle on success when selling to the federal government.
“I help them create what I call radical accountability. Quite simply, that's a business culture or culture…in anything, but I focus on business where the team willingly does what they need to do when they need to do it correctly." - Dave Rosenberg
FEATURED GUEST Dave Rosenberg, a former U.S. Navy naval aviator, has built an impressive career in business leadership and consulting. With a mechanical engineering degree, he progressed from college sales roles to serving as president of multiple companies, including a large San Diego moving company, a telecom/IT services business he owned, and a kitchen and bath remodeling company. After a pivotal moment when a company he led was sold, Rosenberg transitioned into consulting and leadership training, developing the "Locked on Leadership" brand. He has since helped over 100 companies with their leadership challenges, emphasizing a philosophy that focuses on consistency, courage, and compassion. Currently based in San Diego, Rosenberg works as a leadership consultant and public speaker, specializing in creating what he calls "radical accountability" - building business cultures where teams willingly do what needs to be done. His approach draws heavily from his military experience, teaching leaders to get their teams to "act as if lives depend upon them even when only livelihoods do."
Connect with Dave Rosenberg:
- Lockedonleadership.com
- Dave’s Book - Locked On Leadership
KEY TAKEAWAYS 1. Explore Dave's personal experiences that highlight how thinking about others can cultivate courage and challenge our values. His compelling anecdotes remind us of the transformative power of leading from the front and caring for your team. 2. Learn about Dave’s approach to public speaking and coaching. Whether you’re already leading a team or aspiring to do so, he shares invaluable tips to help you become the leader your team deserves. 3. Gain practical strategies for leadership success and hear stories that will resonate with veterans and business leaders alike. Don't miss out on Dave's top business tips for veterans interested in running their own businesses.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS * [05:24] Betting on yourself in business and leadership * [11:30] Unexpected public speaking insights * [15:51] Managing fear in uncertain situations * [17:50] Radical accountability toward integrity and courage
YOUR MOVE Connect with Gene:
- genemoran.com
Check Out These Resources:
- The Military Effect by Scott Manthorne
"My network was probably not the strongest it could be. But the next thing was timing. Where my network was strong, there just weren't job opportunities at that time frame." - Scott Hatzung
FEATURED GUEST Scott Hatzung is a seasoned professional with a distinguished 22-year career in the US Navy, transitioning from an enlisted aviation support equipment technician to an aviation maintenance officer. Originating from Detroit, Michigan, Scott honed his mechanical skills in his father's car shop before dedicating himself to military service, where he specialized in managing helicopters and unmanned aircraft systems and excelled in program and production management. A University of La Verne alum, Scott seamlessly shifted into leadership roles, leveraging his expertise to pursue a corporate career post-retirement. Currently based in San Diego, Scott's career pivot is characterized by a commitment to align personal values such as family, growth, and ambition with organizational culture, as facilitated by his experiences with the 4 Block and Commit Foundation programs.
Connect with Scott Hatzung:
KEY TAKEAWAYS 1. The importance of having a solid transition plan and the role of networking. 2. Organizations that can help veterans build networks and access career opportunities, like 4 Block and The Commit Foundation. 3. How Scott balanced his military service with preparing for civilian life and his tactics for securing his dream geographical location. 4. The significance of aligning your personal values with your chosen company's culture for a fulfilling career.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS * [03:56] Enlisted mechanic shifted focus to management. * [13:02] Commit Foundation helps veterans identify personal values. * [16:00] Availability boosts productive, varied job transition discussions. * [17:36] Seeking career pivot from aviation maintenance.
YOUR MOVE Connect with Gene:
- genemoran.com
Check Out These Resources:
- The Military Effect by Scott Manthorne
"Given my injuries, the kind of prognosis was you're never gonna walk normal again. You're gonna be basically confined to a pool for any type of physical activity because the impact is not gonna be something that that you're gonna be comfortable with." —Clint Musgrove
FEATURED GUEST Clint Musgrove is a former Army medic who has successfully transitioned to civilian life, becoming an expert in incident response within the energy sector. He is recognized for having unique skills like combat lifesaver experience. After serving in the military, Clint ventured into executive protection before finding his calling in disaster and incident response, first at FEMA and now in the private sector. Clint is also a founding member of the Outlier Project, a diverse networking group that supports individuals across various sectors. His resilience and commitment to service have defined his post-military career, where he continues to contribute to the safety and security of critical energy infrastructure.
Connect with Clint Musgrove:
KEY TAKEAWAYS 1. Transitioning from the military to civilian life can be challenging, but building a strong network is crucial. Joining groups like the Outlier Project can connect you with phenomenal individuals ready to support your journey. 2. Whether it’s bouncing back from an unexpected career change or navigating the complexities of transition, persistence, and adaptability are essential in building a successful post-military career. 3. Utilize the skills and experiences gained during military service to explore new pathways. Sometimes, unexpected opportunities, like my role in incident response, can align perfectly with your unique skill set.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS * [03:57] Profound global network fostering support and connections. * [10:59] Network to understand agency needs and requirements. * [19:03] Medical retirement process streamlined, but lingering challenges. * [21:45] Determination drove successful recovery despite prognosis.
YOUR MOVE Connect with Gene:
- genemoran.com
Check Out These Resources:
- The Military Effect by Scott Manthorne
"Once I was able to narrow the focus down in a pointed way is really when doors started opening up because people had something they could grasp onto and help in a more meaningful way as opposed to me just saying, hey, I'd like to get into finance." — Brett Whitsitt
FEATURED GUEST Brett Whitsitt is a former Navy SEAL who has successfully transitioned from military service to become a business leader. Brett graduated from the Virginia Military Institute with a focus in economics and business, later furthering his education with an MBA from the Wharton School. After serving over eight years in the SEAL teams, during which he undertook deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, and dealt with counter-ISIS initiatives, Brett aimed towards a career in finance. He initially joined JPMorgan in the leveraged finance group while concurrently studying for his MBA. Brett is now the CEO and founder of Squire Solutions, a company he established around eight years ago, which focuses on streamlining communication and information flow during tactical operations. Brett's company has primarily worked with the Department of Defense, specifically the Air Force, and offers solutions in various tactical areas like medical evacuation and active shooter scenarios. His journey underscores the importance of taking advantage of networking opportunities and being open to learning and adapting in new environments.
Connect with Brett Whitsitt:
- squiresolutions.com
KEY TAKEAWAYS 1. Brett shares his experience transitioning from an elite Navy SEAL to the business realm, emphasizing the importance of education and self-discovery. 2. Discover how Brett founded Squire Solutions, a tech-forward company enhancing communication across tactical operations—revolutionizing sectors like public safety and emergency response. 3. Learn about the pivotal role networking played in Brett's journey and how strategic connections shaped his career path., working as part of a team—even a small one—can amplify creativity, problem-solving, and overall success.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS * [04:36] Navy to finance, then entrepreneurship with Squire. * [12:47] Served 8 years as Navy SEAL, inspired post-9/11. * [13:49] Navy career stalled, explored other opportunities. * [17:35] Deciding between locations for MBA and job.
YOUR MOVE Connect with Gene:
- genemoran.com
Check Out These Resources:
The Military Effect by Scott Manthorne
"It's the worst feeling, no matter how minor the incident is that you are witnessing, whether you come up on it or you're in the middle of it and just not be prepared to have, to be able to help." —Valerie Lavin
FEATURED GUEST Valerie Lavin is a retired U.S. Army First Sergeant with over two decades of military service. Following her transition from active duty, Valerie embarked on a successful journey into entrepreneurship. She co-founded Luminary Global, a company that provides emergency and trauma kits to first responders, military personnel, and everyday households, catering to both beginner and experienced preppers. Valerie is deeply embedded in the veteran business community. She is passionate about aiding veterans in their post-military transitions, sharing her own experiences and lessons learned, particularly emphasizing the importance of building a strong business infrastructure and honest communication with clients.
Connect with Valerie Lavin:
- luminaryglobal.com
KEY TAKEAWAYS 1. Valerie's transition from military service to entrepreneurship highlights the importance of being adaptable. Despite unforeseen challenges like the pandemic, Valerie and her team pivoted and thrived. 2. Valerie emphasized the necessity of having a solid infrastructure for a business. As business opportunities arise, having the right foundation ensures you can scale and succeed without faltering. 3. As Valerie discovered, working as part of a team — even a small one — can amplify creativity, problem-solving, and overall success.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS * [05:44] Business challenges led to successful distributorship opportunities. * [11:15] Military experience and agility set us apart. * [17:36] Started a veteran staffing company; it failed. * [21:57] Embrace personal growth; entrepreneurship reveals true self.
YOUR MOVE Connect with Gene:
- genemoran.com
Check Out These Resources:
- The Military Effect by Scott Manthorne
“What we're mainly focusing on is digital transformation inside of the defense space, specifically with our training and education pipelines.” — Tyler Van Hook
FEATURED GUEST Tyler Van Hook, Chief Strategy Officer and Co-founder of Kognitiv Edge, is a dynamic leader and entrepreneur with a rich background in military and business strategy. A former United States Marine Corps officer, Tyler leverages his expertise in technology application and human capital development to drive innovative digital transformations in defense training and education. With a Master’s in Technology Leadership from Brown University, he has successfully bootstrapped Kognitiv Edge alongside his wife, maintaining profitability while enhancing human potential through cutting-edge technology. Tyler continues to explore the intersections of technology, military acumen, and business innovation in the competitive defense landscape.
Connect with Tyler Van Hook:
- kognitivedge.com
KEY TAKEAWAYS 1. Tyler’s connection with Scott Manthorne led to a significant opportunity. Building and nurturing networks can open unexpected doors. 2. Recognizing the need for formal training, Tyler pursued a master’s degree to better understand technology's role in business. Continuous learning is crucial in adapting to new industries. 3. Tyler emphasizes the importance of assessing your market effectively (TAM, SAM, SOM) and understanding the importance of balancing technology with human potential.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS * [09:14] Humbled by tech gap, pursued a master's program. * [11:57] Take time before starting life's next chapter. * [16:32] Defense investments rising due to limited VC options. * [21:01] Fortunate for supportive network and family goals.
YOUR MOVE Connect with Gene:
- genemoran.com
Check Out These Resources:
- The Military Effect by Scott Manthorne
"Find mentors that are actually using their own money to run a business. Don't listen to the professors who left business to go teach in school. Follow somebody who's actually using real cash and real coin to do it." — Matthew Griffin
FEATURED GUEST
Matthew "Griff" Griffin, a former Army Ranger and veteran turned entrepreneur, is the founder of Combat Flip Flops, a company that fosters economic growth in post-conflict areas by manufacturing products like flip flops in unconventional locations, such as a combat boot factory in Afghanistan. After serving as a fire support officer and headquarters platoon leader, Griff transitioned into business, working with Syntex Homes and Remote Medical International before launching his own ventures. Now based in Volcano, Hawaii, he is involved in creating an organic tea farm, supporting local sustainability, and championing mentorship to guide aspiring entrepreneurs with actionable advice.
Connect with Matthew Griffin:
- combatflipflops.com
KEY TAKEAWAYS 1. Griff shares his incredible journey from the military to the world of business, emphasizing the impact of entrepreneurship on global security. 2. Discover how he made the transition to launch Combat Flip Flops, a unique company that manufactures products in post-conflict zones to support local economies. 3. Gain insights into the value of mentorship and the role it plays in entrepreneurial success.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS * [04:35] Found perfect home on remote Hilo side. * [12:59] Small businesses provide security and economic growth. * [21:43] Disillusioned with military ethics and drone strikes. * [25:14] Value mentors' time; follow advice and update.
YOUR MOVE Connect with Gene:
- genemoran.com
Check Out These Resources:
- The Military Effect by Scott Manthorne
“For anybody coming out of the military, reach out, build your network, and connect. Because wearing the uniform, hanging it up, and putting on the corporate America collared shirt…it's different.” — Heather Throne
FEATURED GUEST Heather Throne is a seasoned business professional with over two decades of experience in the corporate sector. A former U.S. Army helicopter pilot and logistician, she transitioned from military service to the corporate world, bringing her leadership skills and analytical expertise to Siemens Healthineers. As a senior director focused on CRM excellence and commercial operations, Heather plays a pivotal role in enhancing sales processes globally within Siemens' healthcare division. Her corporate journey began with the assistance of veteran placement organizations like the Lucas Group, which helped her translate military skills into civilian business acumen. Heather is known for her ability to lead diverse virtual teams, leveraging her background in military leadership to foster teamwork and deliver results under pressure.
Connect with Heather Throne:
KEY TAKEAWAYS 1. Heather emphasizes the transferability of military skills to the corporate sector. Leadership, teamwork, and the ability to perform under pressure are qualities that make veterans valuable assets to any organization. 2. LinkedIn is a powerful tool for career advancement. Heather advises veterans to leverage LinkedIn to build meaningful connections and expand their professional tribe. 3. Heather believes in making thoughtful choices rather than seeking perfect balance. It's about prioritizing decisions that align with both personal and professional goals, leading to more fulfilling outcomes.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS * [03:17] From military to project management leadership role. * [06:26] Veterans' skills are valued more by businesses today. * [12:47] Build networks for mutual growth and understanding. * [19:21] Life involves making choices, not balancing everything.
YOUR MOVE Connect with Gene:
- genemoran.com
Check Out These Resources:
- The Military Effect by Scott Manthorne
“I think in today's culture, the military teaches you sacrifice, conscientiousness, duty, work ethic, being open to trying new things, being a part of something other than yourself." — Tracey Jones
FEATURED GUEST Dr. Tracey C. Jones is a renowned leader, author, and advocate for veterans transitioning to civilian careers. A distinguished Air Force Academy graduate and former officer, she brings extensive expertise from roles with organizations like Northrop Grumman and the NSA to her work at Tremendous Leadership and T3 Solutions, Inc. Through her books and engaging speaking style, Tracey offers actionable strategies that blend leadership principles, humor, and diagnostic tools. She champions lifelong learning, resilience, and community engagement, continuing the philanthropic legacy of her father, Charlie “Tremendous” Jones. Passionate about empowering individuals and organizations, she supports tailored training and coaching initiatives that drive meaningful impact.
Connect with Tracey Jones:
- traceycjones.com
KEY TAKEAWAYS 1. Tracey opens up about the thrilling and complex nature of entrepreneurship, likening it to her military experiences. 2. With a significant emphasis on helping veterans transition to civilian life, Tracey believes veterans possess unique skills that make them invaluable in the workforce. 3. For Tracey, retirement isn't about slowing down. It's a continuation of staying active and purposeful. 4. Reflecting on her journey as one of the early women attendees at the Air Force Academy.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS * [04:11] Military teaches sacrifice, duty, and work ethic. * [09:27] Entrepreneurship parallels military excitement and challenges. * [14:13] Military experiences shaped leadership and followership perspectives. * [21:45] Comfortable being the few females in male environments.
YOUR MOVE Connect with Gene:
- genemoran.com
Check Out These Resources:
- The Military Effect by Scott Manthorne
“When you're an empath, you feel what they feel. So, I carried a lot of their stuff, which you shouldn't do. But when you don't know what else to do, and you love them so fiercely, you end up carrying their stuff anyway because you're like, “God, how can I help?” - Tammy Laird
FEATURED GUEST
Tammy Laird is a veteran who has served in both the Army Reserves and the Air Force, with a particular sentiment towards the Army. She comes from a military family, with her father having served in the Air Force. Tammy has a diverse background, including roles as a wife, mother, homeschool mom, and children's author. Currently, she is deeply invested in helping veterans and first responders heal from trauma through a Christian faith-based nonprofit organization called Healing the Hero. Her efforts focus on addressing post-traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, and other negative emotions in veterans, first responders, and their families. Tammy's passion for this work stems from her empathetic nature and her experiences throughout her military career, where she witnessed the traumatic effects on her peers and friends.
Connect with Tammy Laird:
KEY TAKEAWAYS 1. Tammy’s inspiring transition story and how her military experiences shaped her new career path. 2. The importance of not comparing oneself to others and how everyone has their own battles. 3. Insight into vicarious trauma and Tammy's dedication to healing heroes.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS * [06:07] Empathic awareness of behavioral changes in others. * [09:43] Joining the army felt like God's plan. * [12:15] Army reserves offered guaranteed job security. * [17:31] Empaths carry others' burdens and seek to help.
YOUR MOVE Connect with Gene:
- genemoran.com
Check Out These Resources:
- The Military Effect by Scott Manthorne
“The studies show us that people who talk about doing the right thing, whatever that is—whatever your moral code is, the people who talk about it, tend to make more moral, correct, right decisions." — Garth Massey
FEATURED GUEST
Colonel Garth Massey is an accomplished Marine Corps infantry officer and reservist with a unique ability to blend military discipline with business acumen, fostering impactful leadership across both military and corporate landscapes. With extensive global experience, Colonel Massey has honed strategic communication and networking skills that set him apart as a dynamic connector between military and civilian sectors. Known for his hands-on, story-driven approach, Garth empowers leaders at every level through his professional development programs, designed to deliver practical, immediately applicable lessons. Through his work with CommandReady, he equips professionals to actively engage in their growth, try out innovative ideas, and cultivate resilience, effectively bridging the worlds of military rigor and corporate agility. His dedication to fostering strong, adaptive leadership has made him a respected authority for those seeking transformative, action-oriented guidance.
Connect with Garth Massey:
- commandready.com
KEY TAKEAWAYS 1. Garth unpacks the challenges and triumphs of moving from military service to entrepreneurship. 2. Discover Garth's philosophy on leadership and how understanding the four levels of learning—information, habits, workshops, and vision—can transform your business strategies. 3. Learn how meaningful connections and referrals play a pivotal role in Garth’s success as well as in broader business landscapes. 4. Garth shares the importance of character and virtue in shaping successful business practices and personal growth.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS * [05:01] Authority needed to execute ideas. * [13:16] Leadership adapts at different levels. * [16:35] Seek intentional discomfort. * [21:40] Discuss ethics regularly and improve decision-making.
YOUR MOVE Connect with Gene:
- genemoran.com
Check Out These Resources:
- The Military Effect by Scott Manthorne
“I had to get out of my comfort zone and start to network outside of the military because I'd only known that for so long. It was a whole new world for me to connect with all sorts of different people who didn't know anything about my background.” — Larisa Harrington.
FEATURED GUEST
Larisa Harrington is an Executive Leadership and Well-Being Coach, Consultant, Trainer, and Speaker with over two decades of experience helping purpose-driven professionals enhance performance and well-being. A 20-year Air Force veteran, Larisa served in various roles supporting the intelligence community, where she gained a deep understanding of how high-pressure, mission-critical environments affect productivity, effectiveness, and health. Her military service included working in high-stakes operations, requiring resilience and mental clarity, which informs her current work in mindfulness, emotional intelligence, somatic trauma healing, conscious leadership, and burnout prevention. She now supports individuals and organizations committed to creating lasting impact and excellence.
Connect with Larisa Harrington:
- strongbynaturewellness.com
KEY TAKEAWAYS 1. Discover Larisa's strategic approach to networking while on active duty and how you can leverage your connections for business success. 2. Larisa brings her expertise in stress management and burnout prevention. Find out how you and your team can perform and feel better without burning out. 3. She candidly shares her journey of turning her passion into a thriving business and the importance of continuous learning and adapting to your entrepreneurial trajectory. 4. Larisa gives invaluable advice on business ownership for those on active duty, emphasizing the importance of community, mentorship, and resources.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS * [04:34] Retired, started business, met diverse people. * [08:42] Tailored wellness and coaching sessions, customized per client. * [16:56] Utilize resources, network, and seek support. * [18:42] Military members struggle with self-care and support.
YOUR MOVE Connect with Gene:
- genemoran.com
Check Out These Resources:
- The Military Effect by Scott Manthorne
"I'm going to find the geniuses of old, the geniuses of today in the business sense, both men and women, and I'm gonna learn from them. I'm going to listen to their words. I'm going to read their words. I'm going to consume and absorb their strategies, their tactics, their tips, and I'm going to become better for it." — John Lee Dumas
FEATURED GUEST John Lee Dumas, a former active duty officer from 2002 to 2006 and a subsequent reservist, found himself at a crossroads six years after leaving the military. He felt he hadn't reached the personal and professional milestones he saw for himself. This sparked a journey of self-education, prompting JLD to immerse himself in books, podcasts, and self-directed learning. Through this "self-university," he aimed to equip himself with the knowledge and skills necessary to achieve his goals and fulfill his potential in the civilian world.
Connect with John Lee Dumas:
- eofire.com
KEY TAKEAWAYS 1. JLD's experience highlights the challenges veterans face transitioning to civilian jobs, struggling with fulfillment due to differing work ethics and environments between military and corporate life. 2. His military background helped him excel in corporate roles initially, utilizing discipline and focus. 3. JLD leveraged his experiences to create the successful "Freedom Journal" and "Mastery Journal," helping people achieve their goals through productivity and focus. 4. "Entrepreneurs on Fire" has grown remarkably, recording 4,400 episodes and reaching 175 million downloads, demonstrating the viability of podcasts.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS * [00:00] Generous networker; inspiring and genuine persona. * [08:23] Ultimate sacrifice reshaping the civilian perspective. * [14:50] Corporate finance lacked fulfillment in a post-military career. * [22:45] Puerto Rico offers tax incentives for businesses. * [27:12] Transparency for aspiring entrepreneurs, sharing journey openly.
YOUR MOVE Connect with Gene:
- genemoran.com
Check Out These Resources:
- The Military Effect by Scott Manthorne
- JLD’s Journals and Courses
“As I looked around, I saw that there were many others. The overwhelming majority who leave active duty find that within 3 years, they're on to something else because they perhaps made the wrong choice or they didn't recognize that the fit wasn't right." — Gene Moran
In this episode of Make Your Move, I’m turning the tables and will be interviewed by Lisa Larter because, surprise, I’m also featured in The Military Effect. You can read my story in Scott Manthorne’s book in chapter 13.
I want to take a moment to celebrate this significant milestone: this is my 100th episode. It's been quite the journey, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to share stories and insights from some pretty amazing guests. I'm filled with gratitude and excitement for what's ahead.
I've had the privilege of interviewing some outstanding individuals. Tune in this week as I highlight just some of the spectacular guests I’ve had the pleasure of speaking to: Lori Drowdy, Misty Cook, and Michelle Mace Curran. Their journeys from military roles into successful civilian careers have left a lasting impression on me and many listeners.
Podcasting is a privilege, and I believe it allows us to give back to the community by providing a platform for stories that might otherwise go unheard. I hope these stories inspire and connect with each of you, creating conversations and offering guidance for those navigating similar paths.
Visit themilitaryeffect.com, read Scott Manthorne's book, and listen to each weekly episode of Make Your Move to learn more. By challenging your assumptions and understanding the incredible impact veterans have and continue to have, we can create a better future for all of us.
WHAT’S IN THIS EPISODE
- Podcast Impact and Themes
- Challenges and Enhancements
- Future Directions and Goals
- Personal Experience Reflection
YOUR MOVE
- Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e100
- Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran or visit genemoran.com
“Once I was there, I got to see just how impactful interacting with people could be, especially little girls and young women. I loved that part of the job. It was the most rewarding and most fulfilling part.” — Michelle Curran
In this episode of Make Your Move, you'll hear from an extraordinary force of nature, Michelle "Mace" Curran. Michelle's career is awe-inspiring as a former Air Force F-16 fighter pilot and elite Thunderbird demonstration pilot. She's carved a place in aviation history, proving there is no limit if you push the boundaries of what's possible. You can also dive into her story in The Military Effect by Scott Manthorne, chapter 32.
Becoming a Thunderbird is a challenge few can meet—it's a test of skill, grit, and relentless dedication. Michelle recounts the focus and support it took to earn her place on this prestigious team. Her journey didn't stop when she hung up her flight suit. Transitioning into public speaking, she had to master a completely different set of skills and learn to connect with audiences in a new way. Her transition will leave you intrigued and inspired.
Michelle's authenticity shines through as she shares the honest truth. Success on stage required as much discipline as her time in the cockpit; she embraced the need for growth. Listen to the full episode to hear her story of continual evolution, from the adrenaline of fighter jets to the excitement of inspiring others from the stage.
Visit themilitaryeffect.com, read Scott Manthorne's book, and listen to each weekly episode of Make Your Move to learn more. By challenging your assumptions and understanding the incredible impact veterans have and continue to have, we can create a better future for all of us.
WHAT’S IN THIS EPISODE
- Transition to Post-Military Career
- A Speaker's Craft and Business
- Discussion on Thunderbirds
- Business Advice and Networking
YOUR MOVE
- Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e99
- Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran or visit genemoran.com
- Connect with Michelle Curran on LinkedIn, Instagram, or at macecurran.com
"It is a critical part of the system, and it really is about education and awareness. Lobbying is just another piece of that, and I don't think people should be afraid of it." — George Kovatch
In this episode of Make Your Move, I’m chatting with another second-timer on the show, George Kovatch, a U.S. Coast Guard veteran. You can find his section in The Military Effect by Scott Manthorne in chapter 14.
George is not only an accomplished mariner but also a seasoned expert at the senior levels of government, with extensive experience in Congress and the appropriations field. Since transitioning from active duty, George has successfully launched and grown his own business, advising companies on navigating the complex Washington environment. George shares the nuances of defense budgeting, financial management, and his transformative journey from military service to entrepreneurship. You’ll also hear his thoughts on the evolving landscape of defense innovation, with the crucial role of small, agile companies in driving technological advancements.
Listen to the full episode to hear the lessons learned from George's impressive career.
Visit themilitaryeffect.com, read Scott Manthorne's book, and listen to each weekly episode of Make Your Move to learn more. By challenging your assumptions and understanding the incredible impact veterans have and continue to have, we can create a better future for all of us.
WHAT’S IN THIS EPISODE
- Lobbying and Business Development
- Transformations and Future Directions in Defense
- Navigating the Defense Market
- Networking and Mentorship
YOUR MOVE
- Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e98
- Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran or visit genemoran.com.
- Connect with George Kovatch on LinkedIn or at chertoffgroup.com
“One of the biggest mistakes I see military veteran founders make, influenced by Shark Tank, is that they think to themselves, ‘Okay, I've got this idea. Now I have to raise capital in order to build the final iteration of the product, and then I can go out and sell it.’" — Brendan Aronson
In this episode of Make Your Move, I’m chatting with Brendan Aronson, a United States Marine Corps veteran. You can find his section in The Military Effect by Scott Manthorne in chapter 3.
Brendan shares his transition from the Marine Corps to the civilian business world and the importance of cultural fit and choosing your company wisely. You’ll also hear about his experience headhunting for military veterans and his role at Context Ventures, a venture capital fund investing in military veteran entrepreneurs.
One of the standout lessons Brendan shares is the misconception, fueled by shows like “Shark Tank,” that starting a business begins with raising capital. Instead, his advice for entrepreneurs is to focus on proving demand and generating traction first, even if their initial solutions are rudimentary.
Listen to the full episode to hear Brendan's journey from Marine to successful entrepreneur and venture capitalist.
Visit themilitaryeffect.com, read Scott Manthorne's book, and listen to each weekly episode of Make Your Move to learn more. By challenging your assumptions and understanding the incredible impact veterans have and continue to have, we can create a better future for all of us.
WHAT’S IN THIS EPISODE
- Understanding the Financial World and Startups
- Challenges of Startups and Entrepreneurship
- Mentorship and Influence
- Business Advice and Sales
YOUR MOVE
- Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e97
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Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran or visit genemoran.com
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Connect with Brendan Aronson on LinkedIn or at brendan-aronson.com
"There's been an incredible amount of research on the power of psilocybin and other psychedelics in supporting PTSD, anxiety, and depression, as well as discovering joy and finding clarity in life." - Vian Morales
In this episode of Make Your Move, I’m sitting down with Vian Morales, a veteran of the US Army and currently the Senior VP of Operations at Beckley Retreats. You can find her section in The Military Effect by Scott Manthorne in chapter 49.
Vian shares her journey from serving in the military to her role at Beckley Retreats, where they coordinate transformative experiences with the use of psychedelics like psilocybin. She shares the incredible impact these retreats have on veterans suffering from PTSD and those simply seeking clarity and connection while also debunking common misconceptions about psychedelic therapy.
When you listen in, you’ll also hear her share her personal journey through mental health challenges. Vian’s mission is to support underserved communities, and Beckley Retreats is working to make these experiences accessible to even more people.
Listen to the full episode to hear how plant medicines and mindfulness practices are reshaping the traditional view of mental health treatment.
Visit themilitaryeffect.com, read Scott Manthorne's book, and listen to each weekly episode of Make Your Move to learn more. By challenging your assumptions and understanding the incredible impact veterans have and continue to have, we can create a better future for all of us.
WHAT’S IN THIS EPISODE
- Psychedelics and Their Use in Therapy
- Structure of the 11-Week Program
- Post-Retreat Experience
- Financial Accessibility and Insurance Coverage
YOUR MOVE
- Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e96
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Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran or visit genemoran.com
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Connect with Vian Morales on LinkedIn or at beckleyretreats.com
"I learned resiliency or the art of resiliency — bouncing back from any adversity and things that come your way." — Suzanne Lesko
In this episode of Make Your Move, I’m speaking with Suzanne Lesko, a former naval aviator who retired as a Navy Captain after 26 years of service. You can find her section in The Military Effect by Scott Manthorne in chapter 42.
Suzanne opens up about her journey from naval aviator to public speaker, sharing how vulnerable you can feel being on stage and how she developed her keynote, "The 8 Superpowers of the Resilient Leader: Tales of the Warrior Advisor." Hear her thoughts on the art of "failing forward fast" and how military experience can bring valuable insights to the world of business. You’ll also learn the story behind her call sign, ”Xena,” and her mentors, who have made a life-changing impact along the way.
Listen to the full episode to hear about her experiences in naval aviation and public affairs and her transition into civilian life.
Visit themilitaryeffect.com, read Scott Manthorne's book, and listen to each weekly episode of Make Your Move to learn more. By challenging your assumptions and understanding the incredible impact veterans have and continue to have, we can create a better future for all of us.
WHAT’S IN THIS EPISODE
- Resilience and Keynote Speaking
- Mentorship and Learning from Military Experience
- Call sign "Xena"
- Leadership in the Military
YOUR MOVE
- Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e95.
- Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran or visit genemoran.com.
- Connect with Suzanne Lesko on LinkedIn.
“It's a game changer being able to step into a place of owning and embodying clarity and confidence because I know who I am. Confidence is a result of knowing who you are." — Stacy Raske
In this episode of Make Your Move, I’m chatting with brilliant Stacy Raske, a US Army veteran turned successful entrepreneur. You can find her section in The Military Effect by Scott Manthorne in chapter 41.
Stacy has a passion for coaching and helping visionary leaders optimize their performance through business systems and automation. She opens up about how confidence and community have impacted her success as an entrepreneur.
Stacy also shares her personal experiences from her time in the military, her transition to civilian life, and the valuable lessons she's learned in entrepreneurship. She emphasizes the importance of clarity, confidence, and simplifying success instead of overcomplicating it.
Listen to the full episode to hear Stacy’s inspiring story, filled with practical advice, valuable insights, and how she has made an impact.
Visit themilitaryeffect.com, read Scott Manthorne's book, and listen to each weekly episode of Make Your Move to learn more. By challenging your assumptions and understanding the incredible impact veterans have and continue to have, we can create a better future for all of us.
WHAT’S IN THIS EPISODE
- The Transition to Entrepreneurship
- Business Lessons and Principles
- Ideal Clients and Lead Generation
- Mentors and Influential Individuals
YOUR MOVE
- Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e94
- Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran or visit genemoran.com.
- Connect with Stacy Raske on LinkedIn or at stacyraske.com
"I had to become an advocate for myself and for him. Then he saw what I was doing, and slowly he started tagging along, taking care of himself, and placing a lot of effort into his recovery." — Diana Villa
In this episode of Make Your Move, Diana Villa, former Army, shares her incredible story of resilience. You can find her section in The Military Effect by Scott Manthorne in chapter 10.
Diana is a former military medic who served four years in the Army before becoming a military spouse. She and her husband both joined the military at 17 and spent 20 years in the service. After her husband was medically discharged, they struggled with a difficult transition. Diana shared how they had both lost their identities and talked openly about the journey to rediscovering themselves.
Listen to the full episode to hear Diana's story of growing up in the military and how she and her husband navigated being separated from the life they knew without military support.
Visit themilitaryeffect.com, read Scott's book, and listen to each weekly episode of Make Your Move to learn more. By challenging your assumptions and understanding the incredible impact veterans have and continue to have, we can create a better future for all of us.
WHAT’S IN THIS EPISODE
- Diana's Military Journey and Transition to Civilian Life
- Support and Resources During the Transition
- Future Career Paths and Volunteer Work
- Resilience and Recommended Actions
YOUR MOVE
- Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e93
- Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran or visit genemoran.com.
- Connect with Diana Villa on LinkedIn or at thrivingasdesigned.com
"America totally gets it wrong. Warriors prevent war. It's through peace and strength that nobody will want to even step up against our nation." - Mike Sarraille
In this episode of Make Your Move, you'll hear from Mike Sarraille, former U.S. Navy SEAL Officer. You can find his section in The Military Effect by Scott Manthorne in chapter 33.
Beyond his successful military career, Mike Sarraille has not slowed down one bit. From taking on ambitious projects like the Triple 7 expedition, involving skydiving on 7 continents in 7 days, or producing a documentary film highlighting the stories of fallen heroes, his story is one that's truly inspiring.
Listen to the full episode to hear the challenges and successes Mike faced when transitioning from military service to the business world.
Visit themilitaryeffect.com, read Scott's book, and listen to each weekly episode of Make Your Move to learn more. By challenging your assumptions and understanding the incredible impact veterans have and continue to have, we can create a better future for all of us.
WHAT’S IN THIS EPISODE
- Mike Sarraille's Business Ventures
- Balancing Work and Drive
- The Transition from Active Duty
- Sarraille's Work in Higher Education
YOUR MOVE
- Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e92
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Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran or visit genemoran.com.
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Connect with Mike Sarraille on LinkedIn or at mikesarraille.com.
"I am an extrovert. So, I meet people all the time. I can meet you at the gas station, and I'll learn about your life story. I talk to people." - Kirsten Campbell Brunson
In this episode of Make Your Move, you get to hear from Kirsten Campbell Brunson, former Judge Advocate General in the US Army. You can find her section in The Military Effect by Scott Manthorne in chapter 23.
Not only is Kirsten an accomplished military veteran, but she is a senior military spouse, an expert in military justice, and serves as a chair leader for multiple organizations. Kirsten has this amazing ability to connect with people and get to know them quickly, which has helped her build a large, supportive network.
Listen to the full episode to hear about some of Kirsten’s achievements and her advice for those navigating transitions and careers post-military.
Visit themilitaryeffect.com, read Scott's book, and listen to each weekly episode of Make Your Move to learn more. By challenging your assumptions and understanding the incredible impact veterans have and continue to have, we can create a better future for all of us.
WHAT’S IN THIS EPISODE
- Transitioning from Active Duty
- Networking and Mentoring
- Kirsten's Decision To Retire
- Importance Of Building A Network
YOUR MOVE
- Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e91
- Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran or visit genemoran.com.
- Connect with Kirsten Campbell Brunson on LinkedIn or at awfdn.org
“What you need is somebody to help you navigate building the business, getting your LLC, a domain, a CRM, and then starting to brand yourself so people know that you're out there." - Misty Cook
In this episode of Make Your Move, you get to hear from a special repeat guest Misty Cook, United States Marine Corps. You can find her section in The Military Effect by Scott Manthorne in chapter 34.
Misty shares her inspiring journey of transitioning from active duty to building a successful consulting business. As a consultant herself, Misty provides guidance and advice to retired generals and flag officers, helping them navigate the transition to independent consulting. She shares her unique approach to building a support team for these individuals, and the challenges they face in finding their place in the civilian business world.
Listen to the full episode to hear how Misty inspires veteran entrepreneurs, showcasing the power of mentorship, the importance of staying focused, and the impact of effective networking in building a successful post-military career.
Visit themilitaryeffect.com, read Scott's book, and listen to each weekly episode of Make Your Move to learn more. By challenging your assumptions and understanding the incredible impact veterans have and continue to have, we can create a better future for all of us.
WHAT’S IN THIS EPISODE
- Misty's Network of Generals
- Expectations in Consulting
- Mentors and Key Individuals
- Advice for Veterans
YOUR MOVE
- Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e90
- Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran or visit genemoran.com
- Connect with Misty Cook on LinkedIn or at nextcoc.com
“We took off from the Canary Islands, and, two and a half days in, we hit a storm that had waves 3 stories high for 3 days straight, cresting and breaking down on the boat." — Robert Owens
In this episode of Make Your Move, I chat with Robert Owens, a former Air Force Special Forces Operator. You can find his section in The Military Effect by Scott Manthorne in chapter 38.
Robert has defied expectations with a journey unlike any other. He shared some monumental moments in his life, from rowing across the Atlantic at age 71 to his diverse experiences in the military, coaching, smuggling, and pro-democracy work. Robert has embraced challenges and stayed relevant throughout his life’s different chapters.
Listen to the full episode to learn about Robert's fascinating life and discover the power of resilience, dedication, and an unwavering spirit to achieve the extraordinary.
Visit themilitaryeffect.com, read Scott's book, and listen to each weekly episode of Make Your Move to learn more. By challenging your assumptions and understanding the incredible impact veterans have and continue to have, we can create a better future for all of us.
WHAT’S IN THIS EPISODE
- Robert’s Military and Covert Operations Experience
- Mentors and Personal Development
- Mental Resilience and Coaching
- Personal Evolution and Positive Changes
YOUR MOVE
- Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e89
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Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran or visit genemoran.com.
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Connect with Robert Hamilton Owen’s on LinkedIn or at roberthamiltonowens.com
"The most important part of being a Green Beret is being able to build trust with somebody who you might not have anything in common with." — Sal Filardi
In this episode of Make Your Move, I spoke with Sal Filardi, a former US Army Special Operator. You can find his section in The Military Effect by Scott Manthorne in chapter 39.
Sal shared valuable insights about the intersection of military service, networking, and business. His experiences, from the military to his current role at Greencastle Consulting, are a great lesson for individuals navigating the transition from military service to the business world.
Listen to the full episode to hear how Sal embraces discomfort and pushes himself beyond perceived limits.
Visit themilitaryeffect.com, read Scott's book, and listen to each weekly episode of Make Your Move to learn more. By challenging your assumptions and understanding the incredible impact veterans have and continue to have, we can create a better future for all of us.
WHAT’S IN THIS EPISODE
- Special Forces and Networking
- Greencastle Consulting and Business Ventures
- Career Preparation and Decision-Making
- Lessons and Advice for Career Transitions
YOUR MOVE
- Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e88
- Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran or visit genemoran.com.
- Connect with Sal Filardi on LinkedIn or at greencastleconsulting.com
“We have these networking opportunities all around us, all the time. If you do it with intention, you’ll find that you’re surrounded by a wealth of moments that you can leverage to make connections with people that you otherwise wouldn't.” - D.J. Vanas
In this episode of Make Your Move, I sat down with D.J. Vanas, an Air Force veteran turned professional public speaker. You can find his section in The Military Effect by Scott Manthorne in chapter 11.
Our conversation surrounded numerous aspects of D.J.'s career, focusing on his work as a speaker, his approach to networking, the impact of COVID-19, and his advice for military veterans transitioning to civilian life. He provides a compelling perspective on leadership, resilience, and adaptability principles drawn from his experiences as an Air Force veteran and professional public speaker.
Listen to the full episode to hear his intentionality with networking, how he combines education and entertainment in public speaking, and the invaluable lessons he learned navigating unprecedented challenges.
Visit themilitaryeffect.com, read Scott's book, and listen to each weekly episode of Make Your Move to learn more. By challenging your assumptions and understanding the incredible impact veterans have and continue to have, we can create a better future for all of us.
WHAT’S IN THIS EPISODE
- D.J. Vanas' Business and Speaking Engagements
- The Transition from Military to Post-Active Duty Life
- Adapting and Reinvention During Challenging Times
- Success and Strategies in Public Speaking
YOUR MOVE
- Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e87
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Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran or visit genemoran.com.
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Connect with D.J. Vanas on Instagram or at nativediscovery.com/about/
“Even though I loved my time in the Navy, it was awesome to be able to close that book, put it up on the shelf, and leave it for what it is to start a whole new chapter in my life where I'm able to have tons of family time and live a civilian lifestyle while still being able to fly.” - Dallas Jamison
In this episode of Make Your Move, I sat down with Dallas Jamison, a former F18 Navy pilot who transitioned from military aviation to commercial flying with FedEx. You can find his section in The Military Effect by Scott Manthorne in chapter 9.
Dallas shared his journey transitioning from military aviation to becoming a FedEx captain. His decision to pursue commercial aviation post-retirement from the Navy was driven by his passion for flying and the opportunities it offered for work-life balance. His experience underscores the value of resilience, networking, mentorship, and leveraging skills across sectors when navigating significant career changes.
Listen to the full episode to hear the valuable insights and inspiration from Dallas for professionals navigating their own career transformations.
Visit themilitaryeffect.com, read Scott's book, and listen to each weekly episode of Make Your Move to learn more. By challenging your assumptions and understanding the incredible impact veterans have and continue to have, we can create a better future for all of us.
WHAT’S IN THIS EPISODE
- The Transition from Military to Commercial Aviation
- Evaluating Career Options and Transition Decisions
- Transitioning to New Aircraft and Mentorship
- Business Lessons Learned from the Civilian Sector
YOUR MOVE
- Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e86
- Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran or visit genemoran.com.
“Being a business developer, I've been able to be on the cutting edge of where business is going, the effects of technology, and trying to hone in a targeting strategy for a company to go and sell their product in the marketplace." - James "Bart" Bartelloni In this episode of Make Your Move, I'm sitting down with James "Bart" Bartelloni, a former Tomcat pilot turned business developer and passionate surfer. You can find his section in The Military Effect by Scott Manthorne in chapter 17, on page 63.
Our conversation surrounds Bart's career transitions, the importance of building relationships in business development, and the transformative power of surfing in both his personal and professional life.
His fervent love for surfing and the positive impact it has on his life and the lives of fellow veterans shows the power of nature and finding profound joy beyond your profession.
Listen to the full episode to explore Bart’s journey and discover the dynamic intersection between career moves, veteran advocacy, and the pursuit of passion and joy in life.
Visit themilitaryeffect.com, read Scott's book, and listen to each weekly episode of Make Your Move to learn more. By challenging your assumptions and understanding the incredible impact veterans have and continue to have, we can create a better future for all of us.
WHAT’S IN THIS EPISODE
- Bart Bartelloni's Career Journey
- Risk and Network Connections in Career Transitions
- Personal Development and Surfing
- Work-Life Balance and Joy
YOUR MOVE
- Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e85
- Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran or visit genemoran.com
- Connect with James "Bart" Bartelloni on linkedin.com/in/james-bart-bartelloni or at thesupveterans.org/ or behindthinlines.com/
"I've experienced all types of leaders. Good, bad, in between. I've seen how bad leadership affects people and their health. What it can do to the body through stress." -Tameka Rushing In this episode of Make Your Move, I'm chatting with Tameka Rushing, a 21-year Air Force veteran and CEO of Glass Half Full Solutions. You can find her section in The Military Effect by Scott Manthorne in chapter 43, on page 139.
The discussion revolved around her journey from military service to entrepreneurship and the importance of networking in finding success. Tameka shed light on the challenges and opportunities that come with transitioning from the military into the civilian business world and the critical role of passion and networking in this process.
Listen to the full episode to hear Tameka’s inspiring story, filled with practical guidance for those navigating this phase of their lives. Visit themilitaryeffect.com, read Scott's book, and listen to each weekly episode of Make Your Move to learn more. By challenging your assumptions and understanding the incredible impact veterans have and continue to have, we can create a better future for all of us.
WHAT’S IN THIS EPISODE
- Military Network and Transitioning
- The Evolution of Tameka's Business
- Mentorship and the Impact of Leadership
- Tameka's Engagement with the Local Chamber of Commerce
YOUR MOVE
- Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e83
- Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran or visit genemoran.com
- Connect with Tameka Rushing on linkedin.com/in/tameka-rushing or at ghfsolutions.org
Embracing Change and Entrepreneurship In this episode of Make Your Move, you'll hear from Laura Noel, a former Air Force chief master sergeant turned organizational psychologist and executive coach. You can find her section in The Military Effect by Scott Manthorne in chapter 25, on page 86.
Laura's military career provided her with a diverse range of experiences, including serving as a radar scope operator and participating in the Air Force entertainment program TOPS IN Blue. However, it was her persistent intuition that nudged her to pursue yoga teacher certification, which played a pivotal role in shaping her post-military path. Despite her initial doubts and uncertainty, Laura's decision to invest in herself and take decisive action ultimately led to the discovery of her genuine passion, organizational psychology, and executive coaching.
Drawing upon her military experience, Laura emphasizes the invaluable skills and traits developed during her service that have directly contributed to her success as an entrepreneur and coach. The ability to adapt quickly to new roles, connect with diverse teams, and effectively tap into collective wisdom are just some of the traits that veterans bring to the table in the business world.
Laura shares the impact of mentorship on her personal and professional growth. From her mentor, Bob Proctor, who guided her through the challenges of transitioning out of the service, to the military leaders, peers, and her husband, mentorship has been a significant factor in shaping her path. Her praise of the importance of mentorship serves as a reminder of the value of seeking guidance and support, especially during pivotal career transitions.
Listen to the full episode to hear Laura's story, the lessons she learned from her military career, and the insights she offers aspiring entrepreneurs and leaders.
Visit themilitaryeffect.com, read Scott's book, and listen to each weekly episode of Make Your Move to learn more. By challenging your assumptions and understanding the incredible impact veterans have and continue to have, we can create a better future for all of us.
Your Move * Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e83 * Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran or visit genemoran.com * Connect with Laura Noel on linkedin.com/in/laura-noel or at stretchintosuccess.com/about/
Insights on Military Experience and Sports Media In this episode of Make Your Move, we’re featuring Mark Zinno, one of the contributors to The Military Effect by Scott Manthorne. You can find his section of the book in chapter 27, on page 92.
My discussion with Mark was thought-provoking as we talked about the intersection of sports betting, leadership, and media.
Mark, a media professional with extensive experience in sports media and a background in sports betting, is able to draw on his extensive military background to share his leadership philosophy, which revolves around challenging subordinates to be smarter and better.
He stressed the significance of empowering them and giving them authority to effectively carry out their responsibilities. He highlighted the importance of not letting anyone down as the ultimate motivator, drawing from his experiences working with Green Berets. As a versatile media professional, Mark emphasized the importance of thorough preparation and speaking from the heart, especially when delivering emotional and personal messages.
Mark also addressed the misconceptions surrounding sports betting, shedding light on its low delinquency rate compared to other vices. He criticized the negative portrayal of gambling in the media, highlighting the industry's heavy regulation and efficiency in detecting suspicious behavior. Zinno's perspective provided a nuanced understanding of the politics and perceptions surrounding sports betting.
In this episode, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the parallels between the regulated nature of sports betting and the principles of effective leadership, as well as the dedication and preparation required in the world of sports media.
Visit themilitaryeffect.com, read Scott's book, and listen to each weekly episode of Make Your Move to learn more. By challenging your assumptions and understanding the incredible impact veterans have and continue to have, we can create a better future for all of us.
YOUR MOVE
- Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e82
- Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran or visit genemoran.com.
- Connect with Mark Zinno on linkedin.com/in/mark-zinno-2960bb88 or at wagertalk.com/profile/mark-zinno.
Bridging the Gap For Veterans Episode 81 of Make Your Move marks the beginning of a new season which continues to tell the stories of veterans who have made their move into successful post-military careers.
There’s a special focus to season 5, called The Military Effect—which is also the title of a book by Scott Manthorne, a best-selling author.
The Military Effect isn't just another military memoir; it’s a collection of powerful stories from 50 veterans and a movement that over time, will help communities outside of the military understand why veterans are so unique and why they must be part of your understanding of how we live as we do in this great country.
During Season 5, I interview each of the 50 subjects of the book, and for the first episode of this new season, I am joined by Scott Manthorne himself. This will set the stage for what I know will be the best season of Make Your Move yet.
Tune in as we discuss Scott’s inspiration for this movement, the interesting threads that run through all of the stories, bridging the gap between the military and civilian communities, the surprising lessons that came out of the creation of the book, the things the veterans today are struggling with including mental health, and more.
Scott, a civilian with no prior connection to the military, does an amazing job highlighting the need for increased understanding, empathy, and support for veterans and their families.
I encourage you to visit themilitaryeffect.com, read Scott's book, and listen to each weekly episode of Make Your Move to learn more. By challenging your assumptions and understanding the incredible impact veterans have and continue to have, we can create a better future for all of us.
Your Move * Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e81 * Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran or visit genemoran.com * Connect with Scott Manthorne at themilitaryeffect.com
In today's episode, Gene interviews special guest, John Rhatigan, the CEO of the Marine Machinery Association. John is a seasoned professional with extensive experience in the marine and defense industries. He is here to provide us with valuable insights into his role as the chairman of the association, its mission, and how it has been navigating the complex challenges of the industry for over four decades.
SUMMARY
Gene Moran and John Rhatigan delve into the background of the Marine Machinery Association and its origins. John shares how the association has since evolved to become a crucial link between suppliers, shipyards, and the final customers, striving to make cooperation as seamless as possible.
Gene also explores John's impressive journey and how he found himself in his current leadership position. With a background in marine engineering and experience in shipbuilding, John's expertise and leadership roles in construction management have prepared him well for the challenges of his current position. He emphasizes the importance of teamwork and cooperation in the industry, highlighting the need to get along and get the job done. One of the crucial topics Gene discusses with John is the state of the industrial base and supply chains in the marine industry. John sheds light on how the industry has been impacted by tightening regulations and an increasing number of product specifications. He highlights the challenges faced by companies trying to keep up with these demands, leading to some businesses pulling out of the defense industry.
Additionally, John highlights the pressing need for a skilled workforce to build the ships of the future and the importance of collaboration between industry, parents, schools, and the Navy and Coast Guard to develop and retain the necessary talent. Tune in to this informative episode as we gain valuable insights from John Rhatigan, a leader in the marine industry, and discover how the Marine Machinery Association is playing a vital role in navigating the complexities of the defense industry.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
01:17 – 07:46 Succeed by cooperating technically and mentally.
07:47– 12:16 Where are we going to get the people to build our ships?
12:17 –21:16 4 months of training leads to good paying marine jobs.
21:17– 30:14 We’re not playing by the same rules we were 20 years ago.
YOUR MOVE
Get all the resources from this episode at genemoran.com/80
Connect with John Rhatigan on LinkedIn here.
Learn about the Marine Machinery Association here.
In this episode, we have a special guest, “Tip” Wight, a remarkable individual with a diverse background in law enforcement, military service, and corporate leadership. Join us as we dive into Tip's journey, starting from his humble beginnings as a police officer in Oklahoma to his impressive career flying fighter jets in the Air Force.
SUMMARY
Tip shares the inspiration behind his decision to transition from law enforcement to the military and the incredible experiences he had as an F-16 pilot, commanding units in Germany and even flying combat missions in Iraq. But the story doesn't end there. Tip's transition out of active duty proved to be a challenging yet transformative time in his life. He takes us through the process of finding his next career path, which ultimately led him back to his passion for law enforcement.
Through a cold call to the DC Chief of Police, Tip embarked on a new journey, establishing an intelligence fusion center and making a significant impact in the field. We'll also explore Tip's transition into the corporate world, where he utilized his skills and knowledge gained from his previous roles to provide government personnel services for a top defense contractor. And we'll discuss his current position as the director of capture at a mid-tier company, where he continues to make a difference in the government sector.
Get ready to be inspired by Tip Wight's incredible journey of adaptability, resilience, and unwavering commitment to serving others.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
00:57 – 05:31 From police officer to flying F-16s.
05:32 – 06:56 F-16s took me around the world.
06:57 – 15:30 Cold calling the DC Chief of police.
15:31 – 29:39 The contracting world was a big change.
YOUR MOVE
- Get all the resources from this episode at genemoran.com/79
• Connect with Lee “Tip” Wight on LinkedIn here.
In this episode of the Make Your Move podcast, we dive into an exclusive interview with Thomas Constable, a seasoned senior DoD executive who has had a remarkable career in the Pentagon under multiple administrations.
SUMMARY
Throughout his career, Thomas has been focused on governance, assisting the administration in achieving its objectives within the confines of the law and available resources. He has a wealth of experience in addressing complex issues, such as misconduct, and finding solutions through a consultative approach that draws on expertise and data. Thomas has also been deeply involved in advocating for necessary resources and new authorities or laws through engagements with Congress.
Thomas shares his thoughts on leadership, career development, and the importance of inclusivity and diversity within organizations. He provides valuable insights on navigating the intricacies of the Department of Defense and government while emphasizing the need for comprehensive training in managerial and supervisory tasks.
In this candid interview, Thomas opens up about his future aspirations, his desire to teach, and his commitment to helping military officers transition into civilian life. He believes in the power of the "see 1, do 1, teach 1" learning model and hopes to use his experience to influence talent management trends in the coming years.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
01:09 – 09:08 I really tend to be at work a lot.
09:09 – 14:08 I had oversight of the DoD Commissary and DoD education.
14:09 – 20:18 I don’t do politics, I do governance.
20:19 – 26:28 I’m a big fan of how we do business.
26:29 – 38:52 Career progression – from the Army to the Pentagon and beyond.
YOUR MOVE
Get all the resources from this episode at genemoran.com/78
Connect with Thomas Constable on LinkedIn here.
In this episode, Gene Moran interviews Joe McDonnell, the President and CEO of Howell Laboratories, Inc., a well-established company that has been supplying equipment to the US Navy and US Coast Guard since 1964.
SUMMARY
Howell Labs is an employee-owned company through an ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan). This unique ownership model creates a culture where everyone is motivated to make decisions that benefit the company. Collaborative committees have been formed to involve employees in important initiatives, fostering a sense of ownership and camaraderie.
Joe shares insights on the company's mission to expand their offerings and get their products specified for every ship class in the Navy. He delves into the challenges of navigating the complex world of government contracts, the shrinking supplier base in the defense industry, and the importance of experience and expertise in guiding the next generation of professionals.
Join us as we explore how Joe McDonnell guides Howell Labs as they continue to make their move in the ever-evolving defense industry.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
01:15 – 08:34 Right place at the right time – becoming the CEO.
08:35 – 18:44 Everyone that works here owns the company.
18:45 – 26:14 Nothing comes quick and easy with the federal government.
26:15 – 31:47 Continuing to look for opportunities to supply the Navy.
YOUR MOVE
Get all the resources from this episode at genemoran.com/77
Connect with Joe McDonnell here.
Learn all about Howell Laboratories here.
On this episode of Make Your Move, Maria Cherjovsky, the CEO of the Camaraderie Foundation, shares insights about the organization's mission to support individuals with mental health challenges, transitions, and PTSD, ultimately saving lives and preventing suicide.
SUMMARY
Maria discusses the Camaraderie Foundation’s various programs and services provided by the Camaraderie Foundation, including mental health counseling, support for families, employment opportunities for veterans, and a mental leadership program for professional guidance. Maria also highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workforce and shares her personal journey as a first-generation immigrant striving to create change. As we delve deeper into our discussion, Maria provides valuable insights into the challenges faced by military personnel transitioning from active service to civilian life. With her expertise in education, consulting, and workforce development, Maria sheds light on the importance of creating pathways to education and employability for everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Join us as we explore the incredible work of the Camaraderie Foundation and discover how their efforts are making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals facing mental health challenges and transitions.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
00:40 – 04:59 Immigrating to a new country is a challenge.
05:00 – 16:09 You can settle on where society stands or you can make a change.
16:10 – 23:29 Creating transformation in people’s lives.
23:30 – 30:24 Connecting with people and the community.
YOUR MOVE
Get all the resources from this episode at genemoran.com/76
Connect with Maria Cherjovsky here.
Learn more about Camaraderie Foundation here.
On this episode of Make Your Move, host Gene Moran sits down with Matt Zimmermann, CEO of Beast Code, an expert in digital transformation and software engineering focused on helping the warfighter.
SUMMARY
Matt shares his experience working with the Navy's DDG 1000 Zumwalt class destroyer for live fire test and evaluation. He explains how his team used simulations to evaluate threats and created an interactive representation of the destroyer using CAD models. With over 1.2 million components in the 3D model, they were able to apply various threats and identify specific damages.
Matt also discusses his experience navigating strategic initiatives during the COVID-19 pandemic and the 'great resignation'. With a turnover rate of 33%, he recognized the need to focus on the workforce. By collecting data and making necessary changes to benefits and professional development opportunities, they were able to decrease the turnover rate to 19% and improve employee investment. As an expert in creating interactive digital twins, Matt emphasizes the importance of on-the-job training and continuous learning in understanding and integrating various types of data from organizations. He shares his success in dealing with congressional matters and navigating the challenges of running a business without formal education in business or politics. Matt and his team are focused on improving the company's culture and workforce. They have implemented a feedback cycle and created skill matrices to identify necessary technologies and skills. Professional development funds and time off have been introduced to support employees' skill improvement. Additionally, Beast Code has created the Beast Code Academy and sends their workforce to ships for firsthand experience.
Throughout the episode, Matt emphasizes the importance of staying calm and composed in the face of challenges and not getting overly excited during successes. He emphasizes the need for patience and perseverance in building a successful company and highlights the shift in perception towards using the cloud as a necessary capability.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
01:10 – 10:33 Helping the warfighter make decisions.
10:34 – 17:10 People, product and profit.
17:11 – 21:40 The great resignation, COVID and Beast Code.
21:41 – 25:55 I’m going to put this ship on the cloud.
25:56 – 28:52 Beast Code Academy.
YOUR MOVE
Get all the resources from this episode at genemoran.com/75
Learn more about Matt Zimmermann here.
Learn more about Beast Code here.
On this episode of Make Your Move, host Gene Moran brings on special guest Bryan McGrath to discuss the complex relationship between the military and government, the challenges of defense procurement, and the importance of sea power to the United States.
SUMMARY
McGrath, a former naval officer with command experience, now works as a defense consultant, helping clients with communications, strategy, and thinking. Drawing from his operational experience and knowledge of conflict at sea, McGrath shares insights on the political nature of the military budgeting process, the need for better communication between government and industry, and the importance of fulfilling requirements for the best price. He also discusses his impressive career trajectory and the integral role he played in the development of United States Maritime Strategy. Additionally, McGrath reflects on the challenges and opportunities of his role as a defense consultant, emphasizing the importance of honesty and personal vision.
The conversation delves into the readiness of the military, the state of the defense industrial base, and the potential for non-military industries to enter the defense market. McGrath expresses optimism for the future, believing that with more resources, better management, and technology, the military can improve its readiness and effectiveness.
Tune in to this episode of Make Your Move to gain valuable insights into the military-industrial complex and the future of sea power.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
00:47 – 08:46 Making money by helping companies think and communicate.
08:47 – 17:16 I am someone who can synthesize and discern.
17:17 – 20:38 Be brutally honest with your clients.
20:39 – 29:59 Military readiness -You get what you pay for.
30:00 – 34:06 We will always overspend.
34:07 –36:00 Selling to the federal government -The barriers to entry are immense.
36:01 –39:50 DoD five years from now – things get better.
YOUR MOVE
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Get all the resources from this episode at genemoran.com/74
Learn more about Bryan McGrath here.
In this episode, Sarah Carter shares her insights and experiences wearing the President hat in a small business, offering valuable takeaways for leaders and professionals in various industries.
SUMMARY
On this episode of Make Your Move, we dive into the world of small business leadership with our guest, Sarah Carter. Sarah, the current President of Gnostech, shares her experiences and insights on wearing the President hat and the unique perspective it brings to problem-solving within a small business. Sarah takes us through her journey at Gnostech, from starting as a systems engineer specializing in weapons system certification to gradually taking on more responsibilities and eventually becoming the President. We learn about the challenges Sarah faces in balancing the day-to-day operations with focusing on the bigger picture of growing the business. Sarah emphasizes the importance of building a personal network and engaging with industry outreach groups to stay updated and gain different perspectives.
Throughout the episode, Sarah highlights the universal challenges faced by small businesses and shares her insights on the opportunities for growth and collaboration within the defense industry. She emphasizes the significance of mission focus for warfighter dominance and encourages small businesses to seize the opportunities given to them by the Navy.
Join us on this insightful episode as we delve into the world of small business leadership with Sarah Carter, President of Gnostech, and your host Gene Moran and discover how to make the move towards success in the defense industry.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
01:56 – 13:21 Being a good engineer doesn’t necessarily make you a good business owner.
13:22 – 23:00 Wearing the President’s hat means you are wearing many hats.
23:01 – 32:34 Focus on the business and the importance of having trusted relationships.
YOUR MOVE
Get all the resources from this episode at genemoran.com/73
Connect with Sarah Carter on LinkedIn here.
Learn more about Gnostech LLC here.
On this first episode of Season 4 we explore the world of competitive pursuits and the transformative power of Peter Lierni’s Solution Engineering Tool ™ or SET ™ for short, which helps businesses excel in their pursuit of high-value contracts. SET ™ promises to break the mold by filling a critical industry gap.
SUMMARY
Our guest, Peter Lierni, discusses the various roles such as agency engagers, and proposal managers, emphasizing the importance of understanding capture and adopting a unique perspective. Peter shares his valuable experience in assessing large programs in the Pentagon, which shaped his understanding of capture. One of the highlights of the episode is the introduction of Peter's software called Solution Engineering Tool ™ or SET ™ for short. Designed specifically for high dollar value, mission-critical, solution-based contracts, SET ™ provides visibility and confidence to the C-suite regarding the state of pursuit in these contracts. It captures proprietary competitive intelligence and helps companies formulate strategies and make informed decisions. Peter shares his journey in developing SET ™, from publishing a book that became the framework for the software to testing it with companies in the aerospace, defense, and security industry.
Throughout the episode, Peter emphasizes the importance of relationships, grace, protecting intellectual property and retaining business intelligence.. He shares stories of his mentor and the team of individuals who have supported him in developing SET ™. We also learn about Peter's current efforts in marketing the software and his upcoming deals with security companies, including a $35 million company that supports customers like Space Force. Peter's focus on middle market players, companies between $150 million and a billion, highlights their potential for success in the competitive landscape.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
02:53 – 05:24 Experiences, software development, bootstrapped funding.
05:25 – 11:49 Ecosystem of winning.
11:50 – 17:23 SET ™ captures intellectual capital and helps quantify capture efforts.
17:24 – 20:52 Innovative software impresses aerospace defense company.
20:53 – 27:18 Software licensing focuses on middle market companies.
YOUR MOVE
Get all the resources from this episode at genemoran.com/72
Connect with Peter Lierni on LinkedIn here.
Learn more about Solution Engineering Framework™ here.
Learn more about Solution Engineering Tool (SET™) here.
Learn more about Solution Engineering Book here.
U.S. Navy Veteran, founder of Capitol Integration and the host of the 'Make Your Move' podcast, Gene Moran, delivers a compelling review of the first Three Seasons and paves the way for the much-anticipated Fourth Season.
SUMMARY
Gene Moran shares the journey from his book 'Make Your Move' to its podcast adaptation, revealing how guests imparted various strategies for achieving success and fulfillment in life post-military. Emphasizing the integral role of mentorship in military life, a theme echoed throughout the first Three Seasons of the podcast.
Sales from the 'Make Your Move' book support Freedom Fighter Outdoors, an organization dedicated to raising awareness and garnering public support for the needs, services, and activities of our injured veterans.
Next, Gene sets the stage for the upcoming Season Four, which will spotlight individuals at the helm of defense companies committed to aiding the warfighter, as well as senior government officials.
Special thanks to all the guests of the 'Make Your Move' podcast. Their dedication to supporting veterans in their post-military life endeavors is truly commendable.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
00:01 – 05:03 Season One through Three of the Make Your Move podcast.
05:04 – 08:41 Season Four – setting the stage.
YOUR MOVE
Get all the resources from this episode at genemoran.com/71
Connect with Gene Moran on LinkedIn here.
Learn more about Freedom Fighter Outdoors here.
Order your copy of Make Your Move here.
U.S. Air Force Veteran, Trish Murphy, weathered extreme Alaskan conditions as a mechanic during her time on active duty. Her inspiring narrative of homeschooling her children and launching a fresh entrepreneurial venture is certain to captivate and motivate listeners.
SUMMARY
Trish Murphy embarked on a remarkable journey when she enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, serving as a mechanic. While stationed in Alaska, she honed her skills, maintaining and repairing complex machinery like generators, heaters, and hydraulic systems. This experience sparked her “How hard can it be” mindset. After serving four years in the Air Force, she chose to transition into civilian life, focusing on her growing family.
Their subsequent relocation to New Hampshire marked the beginning of Trish's commitment to homeschooling her children, a dedicated effort that spanned 13 years until her daughter's graduation. Her teaching philosophy emphasized fostering a love for lifelong learning in her children.
Capitalizing on the opportunities offered by the Montgomery GI Bill, Trish obtained a degree in Marketing. In 2016, she established her own agency, 'Marketing Smarty Pants.' Her narrative about steering this business venture through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic promises to strike a chord with fellow entrepreneurs.
In this episode’s business tip, Gene offers advice on words you believe in.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
00:44 – 04:03 Trish’s military service.
04:04 – 13:13 The decision to transition and homeschooling.
13:14 – 17:03 Running a marketing agency.
17:04 – 20:00 Balance and lessons learned.
20:01 – 24:12 Gene’s Biz Tip - Words you believe in.
YOUR MOVE
Get all the resources from this episode at genemoran.com/70
Connect with Trish Murphy on LinkedIn here.
Learn more about Marketing Smarty Pants here.
Retired U.S. Air Force veteran, Wanda Wright, devoted five years of her life to active-duty service in the role of a budget officer. Following this, she joined the Arizona National Guard, where she ascended to the rank of Colonel. In 2015, she was honored with an appointment as the Director for the Department of Veteran Services by Governor Ducey of Arizona. Currently, she continues her dedication to veterans as the Director for the Office of Veteran and Military Academic Engagement at Arizona State University.
SUMMARY
In 1985, Wanda Wright embarked on her military career at the Air Force Academy, where she achieved the rank of 2nd Lieutenant and served in the role of a Budget Officer. After five years of committed service, she took a step back, with her family's needs at the forefront, and transitioned into a part-time role at the Arizona National Guard. Simultaneously, she embarked on a full-time role at Hughes Missile Systems, which is now known as Raytheon. Four years later, she accepted a full-time position at the Guard.
From 1990 to 2005, Wanda served in the 162nd fighter wing in Tucson, AZ, where she held multiple roles, including Budget Officer, Accounting and Finance Officer, Communication Officer, and Wing Executive Officer. She ascended the ranks, being promoted to Colonel, and accepted the Director of Staff role for the Arizona National Guard. This promotion saw her relocate to Phoenix, where she devoted another six years before retiring from the Guard.
During the 2010 recession, Wanda began crafting her post-military career path and formally retired from the military in 2011. She subsequently served on a charter elementary school board and was later asked to assist in managing the school’s expansion on a full-time basis. She committed to this role for four years before being sought out by Governor Ducey’s administration to serve as the Director for the Department of Veteran Service, an appointment she received in April 2015. As of June 1st, 2023, Wanda has taken on a new challenge as the Director for the Office of Veteran and Military Academic Engagement at Arizona State University.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
00:54 – 13:53 Wanda’s military service.
13:54 – 30:23 Post-military career path and a Governor’s appointment.
30:24 – 31:35 Work-life balance
31:36 – 33:43 Gene’s Biz Tip -The ability to apply influence.
YOUR MOVE
Get all the resources from this episode at genemoran.com/69
Connect with Wanda Wright on LinkedIn here.
Learn more about Wanda’s Arizona State University appointment here.
Jim Young, a U.S. Army veteran, recounts his active-duty years and the injury he sustained while patrolling the East-West German border, which led to his military retirement. Today, he thrives as a successful entrepreneur. Coffee enthusiasts, you're in for a treat in this episode!
SUMMARY
Jim Young, initially courted by the Marines, chose instead to enlist in the U.S. Army as an Infantryman at the young age of 17. His military journey took him to Europe, where he patrolled the border between East and West Germany in 1987. Unfortunately, an injury from this tour quashed his aspiration to continue in the military. As a result of a medical board decision, he transitioned out of the Army at the end of 1988 and ventured onto a new path in civilian life.
Embracing hard work and manual labor, Jim initially began working in the heating and air conditioning industry. However, a desire to work independently soon gripped him. This led him to transform his love for music and electronics into a business opportunity. With determination in his heart and freshly printed business cards in hand, he ventured into the niche of building speakers. Fast forward 34 years, his electronics venture still thrives.
But Jim's entrepreneurial spirit didn't stop there. His second love, coffee, led him to launch the Salvation Coffee Company in 2018. Here, he and his family roast and serve award-winning coffee. The tale of how he persisted amidst the pandemic is a testament to resilience.
Gene’s business tip: 3 things that shouldn’t be allowed on airplanes.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
01:13 – 08:40 Jim Young’s active-duty service
08:41 - 26:21 Jim’s post-military career path and entrepreneurial spirit.
26:22 - 36:39 Work-life balance
39:40 - 38:14 Gene’s Biz Tip
YOUR MOVE
Get all the resources from this episode at genemoran.com/68
Connect with Jim Young on Instagram here.
Learn more about Salvation Coffee here.
Learn about Command Sergeant Major Patrick Gavin Tadina here.
Returning for a second episode, Loree Draude, a former Lieutenant Commander of the U.S. Navy and Naval Aviator, opens up about the joys and challenges of pursuing creative outlets.
SUMMARY
Loree, a former naval aviator, made a captivating appearance on episode 8 of the Make Your Move podcast. She not only shared her remarkable military experiences but also discussed her achievements in life after the military. In her return to the show, Loree offers valuable insights into the importance of pursuing one's passions, emphasizing that age or personal circumstances should never hinder the pursuit of one's dreams.
Loree's relentless pursuit of her passion led her to create a captivating one-person show called "I Feel the Need," inspired by the experiences of women naval aviators in the 90s. With remarkable dedication, she has showcased her show at various prestigious venues, including the renowned Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Now, she is eagerly preparing for her upcoming performance at the esteemed Hollywood Fringe Festival in mid-June. Don't miss the opportunity to witness Loree's incredible talent on stage! The festival describes the show as: “Former U.S. naval aviator, Loree “Rowdy” Draude, was one of the first women to fly combat jets in the military. An accidental aviation pioneer, she served for ten years, during which she deployed twice to the Persian Gulf and was selected to be an instructor pilot and a landing signal officer. In her award-winning one-woman show, I Feel the Need, she takes to the cockpit again and brings the audience along on a G-force trip as she lands on an aircraft carrier and recounts the adventure, humor and tragedy she experienced during her historic deployment on the U.S.S. Abraham Lincoln.”
Loree draws insightful parallels between the challenges she encountered during her service and the obstacles that individuals may encounter in the business world. She delves into these similarities, offering valuable perspectives for listeners. Furthermore, this inspiring episode also features Loree's thoughts on the new Top Gun Maverick movie. Tune in to discover more!
Gene’s business tip: Are you challenging your thinking and asking “why” more often?
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
01:10 - 06:55 Loree describes her creative outlet.
08:05 - 16:21 Challenges of being deployed on an aircraft carrier.
16:22 - 29:29 Loree’s live show and challenges - “I Feel the Need.”
29:30 - 34:09 What Loree thinks of the new Top Gun Maverick movie.
34:10 - 40:56 Follow your passion
40: 57 - 42:38 Gene’s Biz Tip
YOUR MOVE
Get all the resources from this episode at genemoran.com/67
Connect with Loree Draude on LinkedIn here.
Learn more about Loree’s Hollywood Fringe Festival June 2023 performance here.
US Army veteran, Dan Cooper shares his 8 years of service and how having a “Buddha Mind” has helped him find real balance in life.
SUMMARY
Dan Cooper, a remarkable individual, embarked on his journey with the US Army in 2000, proudly serving with the esteemed 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) until 2003. Little did he know that his life would forever be impacted on that fateful day, 9/11, when a plane struck the Pentagon while he and his unit were just half a mile away, engaged in riot control training. In the blink of an eye, his unit swiftly transitioned to providing security at the site and tirelessly sifting through the rubble.
In 2003, Dan concluded his active-duty service. He joined the Reserve Drill Sergeant Unit, a supposedly "non-deployable" unit, only to find himself deployed to Iraq from 2006 to 2007. The experiences he encountered on the battlefield instilled in him what he aptly terms the "Buddha Mind" – a mindset that hones in on controlling what can be controlled while minimizing distractions.
After eight years of service under his belt, Dan eventually chose to transition out of the military and pursue his passion for health and mindset. His unwavering dedication led him to achieve a doctorate in chiropractic medicine, subsequently practicing in a renowned sports-focused clinic that catered to professional athletes, including NFL and MLB players, as well as Olympians. Today, Dan is the driving force behind his own independent concierge chiropractic practice, where he continues to provide care to his clients.
Dan Cooper's journey serves as a testament to his resilience, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to personal growth.
Gene’s business tip: Are we relying too much on Power Point slides? You may agree with his point!
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
00:54 – 14:34 Dan Cooper’s 8 years of service.
14:35 – 21:08 Post-military life in chiropractic medicine
21:09 – 24:40 Finding balance – recovery is where growth happens.
24:41 – 27:22 Gene’s Biz Tip - Are we relying too much on Power Point slides?
YOUR MOVE
Get all the resources from this episode at genemoran.com/66
Connect with Dan Cooper on LinkedIn here.
Learn more about Dr Dan Cooper here.
Paul Taylor, US Army Colonel (Ret.) and cancer survivor shares how cultivating relationships can often open the door to new post-military career opportunities.
H3 SUMMARY
Paul Taylor is a West Point graduate who served in the US Army for 23 years. He describes his military career as having two distinct parts. In the first part, he served as an Armor officer in various roles, including commanding at the squadron level with the 101st Airborne. During the second part of his military career, Paul transitioned to a Congressional fellowship on Capitol Hill and later worked as a liaison officer with the Armed Services Committee of the Senate and US House. In this role, he collaborated closely with the United States Congress to influence essential policies and funding decisions for the Department of Defense and the Army.
After taking health and family into consideration, Paul decided to transition out of the military and settle in Kansas City. While looking for career opportunities in the area, he was connected to a new startup in the defense space, where he worked for a year before being appointed as the Regional Administrator for the US Midwest at FEMA.
Following his time at FEMA, Paul started his own consulting firm before joining Tidal Basin Group where he is currently their Regional Vice President.
Gene’s business tip for this episode is about domestic air travel. Don’t miss it!
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
01:41 - 06:39 Paul Taylor’s 23 years of active duty service.
06:40 – 29:05 How cultivating relationships led to post-military career opportunities.
29:06 – 34:24 How Paul describes work and life balance
YOUR MOVE
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Get all the resources from this episode at genemoran.com/65
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Connect with Paul Taylor on LinkedIn here.
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Learn more about Tidal Basin here.
The host of the Make Your Move podcast, Gene Moran, shares 10 business tips sure to help you achieve success in both federal and commercial.
SUMMARY
Welcome to today's episode. Distilling his expertise, Gene offers invaluable insight on how to navigate the federal sales process and achieve success in business.
In this episode, Gene shares his ten easy-to-remember business tips that will benefit any company. He draws from his personal experiences and provides examples of what to do and what not to do when selling to the federal government or running your own business.
Whether you're just starting out or have been in the game for a while, Gene's tips are sure to help you succeed when it comes to running your business and pursuing federal funding opportunities.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
00:01 - 02:11 Tip #1- Know your numbers.
04:36 - 05:35 Tip #3 - Get in the habit of saying yes.
08:40 - 10:59 Tip #6 - Do this.
11:00 - 12:43 Tip #7 - Selling to the federal government is about (_____).
12:44 - 14:33 Tip #8 - What you can do to policy.
14:34 - 16:16 Tip #9 - Not everybody matters the same.
YOUR MOVE
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Get all the resources from this episode at genemoran.com/64
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Connect with Gene Moran on LinkedIn here.
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Connect with Gene Moran on Instagram here.
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Learn more about Gene’s business - Capitol Integration here.
In this podcast episode, US Army veteran Eric Bakey shares his journey from serving in Iraq to leaving the military after six years. Discover how Eric's artistic talents helped him find his dream career once he gained clarity on his goals and aspirations.
SUMMARY
In this podcast episode, we hear from Eric Bakey, who enlisted in the US Army as an engineer right after high school and later served in Ramadi, Iraq. Eric discusses his deployment experience and how it fueled his ambition to join the special forces, though he ultimately did not succeed in that pursuit. At 24, he left the military after six years of service, feeling uncertain about his future.
Struggling to find direction, Eric turned to alcohol as a way to force himself to make a decision about his life. He recounts the transformative moment when a Master Sergeant called him and urged him to sign up for a program called Helmets to Hardhats, which put him on a new career trajectory. After working in the elevator industry, Eric discovered his artistic talents and ventured into online marketing before finally landing his dream job at Boeing as a visual practitioner.
After the interview, Gene shares a valuable business tip on sales communications.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
01:55– 07:53 Eric’s US Army career.
07:54 – 22:10 Transitioning and the Helmets to Hardhats program.
22:11 – 26:33 Eric’s artistic abilities leads to his dream career.
26:34 – 28:46 Lessons learned and finding balance.
28:47- 32:00 Gene’s Biz Tip – Sales Communications
YOUR MOVE
- Get all the resources from this episode at genemoran.com/63
- Connect with Eric Bakey on LinkedIn here.
- Connect with Eric Bakey on Instagram here.
- Visit Eric’s website here.
- Learn about Helmets to Hardhats here.
I welcome Ralph DiBenedetto, a former Marine who enlisted right after high school and dedicated seven years to serving his country. He shares why having a plan and asking questions can help you with career transitions.
SUMMARY
In this episode I am joined by Ralph DiBenedetto, who followed in his grandfather's and father's service footsteps by enlisting in the U.S. Marine Corps right after high school. Ralph served as an anti-tank assaultman at Camp Lejeune for seven years before transitioning to civilian life. He pursued a criminal justice degree, which led him to work in private investigations and eventually in recruitment at a staffing firm. Ralph's dedication to professional growth and seizing training opportunities led him to his current role as a Senior Strategic Partnerships & Alliances Specialist with the Direct Employers Association.
Join Ralph and Gene as they explore the importance of having a plan and asking questions to successfully navigate a post-military career.
Be sure to listen to Gene’s business tip at the end of the podcast. Gene shares why it may be time to change up your routine.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
02:12– 06:04 Ralph’s U.S. Marine Corps career.
06:05 – 13:29 Preparing for transition and continuing education.
13:30 – 17:59 Ralph’s civilian career path.
18:00 – 23:20 Lessons learned and finding balance.
YOUR MOVE
Order your copy of Make Your Move – Charting Your Post-Military Career here.
Get all the resources from this episode at genemoran.com/e62
Connect with Ralph DiBenedetto on LinkedIn here.
Learn about the Direct Employers Association here
Learn more about the Direct Employers Association Partnerships and Alliances here
Carla D. Bass, a retired U.S. Air Force Colonel is responsible for managing vital communications between high-ranking government officials and Congress. She emphasizes the importance of effectively conveying one's story to make a meaningful impact.
SUMMARY
In this episode, Gene Moran talks with Carla Bass, a retired U.S. Air Force veteran who continues to serve in the national intelligence community. From a young age, Carla knew she wanted to follow in her father's footsteps and serve her country. After her retirement from active duty, Carla took a one-year break before joining the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI).
The ODNI is a senior-level agency that provides oversight to the Intelligence Community. It primarily employs subject-matter experts in various areas, including collection, analysis, acquisition, policy, human resources, and management.
Carla shares with us the importance of telling a story through a resume and why details matter when exploring post-military career options. She emphasizes the power of the written word and how it can influence outcomes. In fact, she wrote a book on the subject called "Write to Influence!"
Join us in this episode as Carla shares her insights and experiences about transitioning from military to a civilian career and how to use effective communication to achieve your goals.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
00:56 – 04:55 Carla’s 30 years of active-duty service.
04:56 – 15:25 Preparing for transition.
15:26 – 19:07 Lessons learned and finding balance.
YOUR MOVE
Most board members, CEOs and businesses owners don’t understand the nuances of influence. They try to “strike deals” or assert hierarchical power. But the future belongs to the fast-thinkers, and to the people who know that influence is about accountability, innovation and leverage.
“Influence” is the power to shape policy or ensure favorable treatment from someone. Influence is reciprocal, the proverbial “win/win.”
Order your copy of Million Dollar Influence here.
Get all the resources from this episode at genemoran.com/e61
Learn more about Write To Influence! here.
Connect with Carla Bass on LinkedIn here.
Former US Navy data systems and electronics technician, Rebecca Paris, served on the aircraft carrier, John C. Stennis and traveled the world. She turned down a $45,000 re-enlistment bonus when she decided she wanted to build her own company focused on financial intelligence.
SUMMARY
Veteran, Rebecca Paris, discusses her experience of active duty, including her role as a data systems technician on board the aircraft carrier John C. Stennis and riding in the Blue Angels’s C-130, “Fat Albert.”
Coming from a military family, with her grandfather serving in the Army and her dad in the Air Force, Rebecca had clear aspirations to serve in the military too.
In this interview, Rebecca emphasizes the role financial intelligence and security played in making the fundamental decision to leave the Navy and pursue civilian opportunities. She now faces uncertainty traveling through life as a civilian, but exciting things are on the horizon as she starts her own company.
She shares with us what work she has been doing to re-establish the balance in her life as a civilian.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
Rebecca shares her experience as a data systems technician in the US Navy.
How she found her way to a civilian opportunity.
Finding balance in civilian life.
YOUR MOVE
Have you ordered your copy of Make Your Move?
Not everyone has a stake in the outcomes in the business of influence. How will you secure yours? I co-wrote Million Dollar Influence with Alan Weiss to help people drive powerful decisions through language, leverage, and leadership.
All proceeds for the book go to Freedom Fighter Outdoors.
Ready to chart your post-military career? Order your copy of Make Your Move here.
Get all the resources from this episode at genemoran.com/e60
Connect with Rebecca Paris on LinkedIn here.
Former U.S. Navy Surface Warfare Officer, Kristen Alexander, shares how outreach and dialogue can create multiple post-military career opportunities.
SUMMARY
Retired U.S. Navy Surface Warfare Officer Kristen Alexander served on the USS Sampson and USS Pearl Harbor before becoming the first experimentation officer at the Surface and Mine Warfare Development Center in San Diego.
Her duties included developing a course of study to train surface warfare officers in tactics proficiency. Kristen was also responsible for collaborating with industry and academia to identify new technologies and tactics to help close warfighting capability gaps.
Kristen had been exposed to various organizations and networks throughout her military career, which ultimately led to career opportunities in civilian life. Her plan to transition out of the Navy was public, and companies interested in Kristen's skills reached out. She received multiple job offers and ultimately accepted a position as a researcher at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Lab.
Alexander also discusses why having a timeline going into transition can assist with post-military career planning.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
02:14 – 09:13 Kristen’s US Navy active-duty career
09:15 – 36:25 The decision to transition out of the military and how connections and networks lead to opportunities.
36:26 – 39:19 Lessons learned and finding balance.
YOUR MOVE
Have you ordered your copy of Make Your Move?
“Make Your Move is a pure joy to read! Gene Moran writes in a simple educational way that is both entertaining storytelling and mentoring wrapped up in one. His book helps set the stage to prepare anyone separating from the service no matter how long they were on active duty. His stories enlighten and spark a sense of, "Oh, that's what I need to do! My only advice for future readers, don't wait until you are preparing to get out of the service to buy this book. Instead, buy it while you are still in and heed the advice along the rest of your journey. Thus, setting yourself up for success well in advance. I wish I had a book like this much earlier in my career!” – Jeffrey H.
All proceeds for the book go to Freedom Fighter Outdoors.
Ready to chart your post-military career? Order your copy of Make Your Move here.
Get all the resources from this episode at genemoran.com/e59
Connect with Kristen Alexander on LinkedIn here.
From Electrician’s Mate to Career Recruiter. If you have seen any of the US Navy’s social media posts prior to 2021, chances are Grant Khanbalinov was the talent behind the media.
SUMMARY
Grant Khanbalinov joined the U.S. Navy as an electrician's mate, serving on two ships and completing six deployments before becoming a career recruiter at U.S. Navy Recruiting Command in Millington, Tennessee. As a national social media trainer, Khanbalinov shared his knowledge on how various social networks are used to communicate the benefits of a career with the Navy. In his final role as a career recruiter, he managed all social media accounts for the Navy from the Pentagon.
Khanbalinov was promoted to Chief in eight years and had planned to make a career out of the Navy. His plans changed when he faced a medical evaluation board after being diagnosed with Crohn's disease. After serving nearly 13 years of active duty, he transitioned out of the military and began working with the civilian ad agency he worked closely with while serving in the Navy. Currently, he is working at Amazon in their healthcare organization.
Khanbalinov shares how networking with civilians and veterans helped him through the Medical Evaluation Board process and find civilian career opportunities. His advice to people leaving the military is to take a short break before jumping into another career, use the time to gain perspective, and focus on what life will be like in the civilian world.
Grant is still very much active on social media, such as TikTok, where he has 3.2 million followers.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
01:01 – 07:37 A 13-year active-duty US Navy career.
07:38 – 11:59 A Medical Evaluation Board leads to transition.
12:00 – 16:48 Networking with civilians and veterans for transition guidance.
16:49 – 24:50 Work/Life balance and lessons learned.
YOUR MOVE
“As a retired Naval Officer I could really appreciate Gene's insights on making a tough decision to leave the Navy and even hard decision to leave "corporate safety" and strike out on his own. Gene's insights are meaningful and thought provoking! He does a wonderful job of weaving story telling with practical approaches to career management. I think in today's crazy world, job fulfillment is more important than ever so I appreciate the approach!” – Marty Groover
Gene’s book, Make Your Move – Charting Your Post-Military Career is for you if you’re considering a transition into a career that fulfills you.
Order your copy of Make Your Move here. All proceeds go to Freedom Fighter Outdoors in support of our veterans.
Get all the resources from this episode at genemoran.com/e58
Connect with Grant Khanbalinov on LinkedIn here.
Follow Grant on TikTok here.
Are you using the right tools of influence when selling to the federal government? Gene shares 7 tools of influence one should understand for successful federal funding outcomes.
SUMMARY
Gene has helped many clients navigate and move through the federal sales process by exposing them to opportunities many don’t even know exist. The result is millions of dollars in federal sales.
Can you move through the process faster than most? The answer is yes. Gene’s clients have skipped 12 to 18 months of the process by having their projects accelerated. This is done through thoughtful engagement across the constellation of decision makers—Industry, Agency, and Congress.
Gene shares 7 tools of influence with listeners to help them better understand why messaging and networking with the right people at the right time. He shares that investing in your people can better position your company in the funding process, ultimately leading to funding in your favor.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 – 07:00 Funding and getting better positioned – client examples.
07:01 – 15:29 7 tools of influence and why they matter.
15:30 – 21:56 Timing and the importance of messaging and investing.
YOUR MOVE
Invest in your people by giving them the knowledge they require to navigate the federal sales process. For less than the cost of attending a trade show, Capitol Currency℠ is a proven system that has achieved billions of dollars in federal sales and will teach you how to properly engage the federal government from start to finish.
Learn how Capitol Currency℠ can help you stand out from the crowd here.
Attend Gene’s FY24 Budget Brief - Everything You Need to Know FREE Zoom session on March 28th, 2023, at 09:00 AM by reserving your virtual seat here.
Get all the resources from this episode at genemoran.com/e57
Connect with Gene Moran on LinkedIn here
Follow along as Gene maps out a very busy travel schedule filled with high-level events, keynote speaking, award recognition, and scheduled meetings in Washington, DC.
SUMMARY
Although Gene doesn’t recommend the schedule he kept over the last week in February to anyone, he does admit that each and every flight and hotel stay that took him to an event or meeting led to positive benefits for him personally and for his business.
Gene starts off at the Ritz-Carlton in Sarasota, where he hosted a “Meet the Ringmasters” event. This 2 and half day event brought a dozen hand-picked defense industry executives together to discuss what is and isn’t working in the three rings of federal sales.
A short trip east to Orlando has Gene delivering a keynote speech on the topic of influence to attendees of the Military Service to Business Success Summit hosted by the Florida Association of Veteran-Owned Businesses.
Back on a plane and off to Washington, DC, for Friday meetings before jetting to Tallahassee, Florida, to accept the Florida State University Seminole 100 fastest-growing alumni-led companies award. Gene is one of only seven veteran-owned companies in the top 100.
From Tallahassee to Ft Walton Beach to meet with a client for Sentient Strategy®.
Next on the agenda is a trip to New York City for the Million Dollar Consulting Hall of Fame event, followed by 2 weeks of scheduled industry events in Washington, DC, focusing on coalition advocacy and his clients.
Busy is never the goal, but sometimes it’s the means to significant ends.
Entrepreneurship is still work!
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 - 02:01 Spring is a busy time of year
02:02 - 06:43 Meet the Ringmasters – Sarasota, FL
06:44 - 09:00 FAVOB event – Orlando, FL
09:01 - 09:43 Washington, DC
09:44 - 12:22 FSU Seminole 100 - Tallahassee, FL
12:23 - 14:25 Sentient Strategy® - Ft Walton Beach, FL
14:26 -17:29 Million Dollar Consulting Hall of Fame – NYC
YOUR MOVE
Sentient Strategy® can move you strategically in 12-18 months because it focuses you on things that matter and that you have some control over. It is a proven method to focus your company and team on what matters most.
Learn how Sentient Strategy® can help your company focus on decision-making here
Get all the resources from this episode at genemoran.com/e56
Learn more about FSU Seminole 100 here
Connect with Gene Moran on LinkedIn here
Misty Cook, United States Marine Corp (Ret.) supported three and four-star General Officers for two decades during her military service as an Adjutant and now operates her successful business helping retired General and Flag officers at all stages of their transition.
SUMMARY
Misty served 20 years on active duty as an Adjutant in the USMC. Her duties included providing administrative support to three and four-star general officers which ultimately led to the founding of her business called COC. Her business helps retiring General Officers and Flag Officers start and build their consulting businesses.
Transition planning was on Misty’s radar at the 15-year mark of her career. She knew that COC was her dream business and started planning that post-military career path prior to her retirement from the Corps.
She credits starting a “side hustle” before starting COC for teaching her about the mistakes that can be made in business and when one should hire a business strategist to help guide an entrepreneur along the business journey which can ultimately prevent costly pitfalls.
Enjoying the freedom that comes with running her own business, Misty advises those transitioning out of military service to build a network of people doing different things. A direct connection may not be able to offer a solution to your query but someone they know may. A large network yields many resources in life and in business.
Enjoy this episode and please share the Make Your Move podcast with fellow veterans.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
01:12 – 06:18 Summary of Misty Cook’s USMC 20-year active-duty career.
06:19 – 13:22 Leaving active-duty and planning for transition to entrepreneurship.
13:23 – 17:33 Unexpected upsides to transition and running a business.
17:34 – 19:28 Working on work/life balance.
YOUR MOVE
Not everyone has a stake in the outcomes in the business of influence. How will you secure yours? I co-wrote Million Dollar Influence with Alan Weiss to help people drive powerful decisions through language, leverage, and leadership.
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Order your copy of Million Dollar Influence here
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Get all the resources from this episode at genemoran.com/e55
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Learn more about Misty Cook’s business - COC here
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Connect with Misty Cook on LinkedIn here
T. Shane Johnson, USMC (Ret.) shares the ultimate story in perseverance. He was left for dead following a terrible accident but fought back on a long road to recovery and now owns and operates several successful businesses.
SUMMARY
When Shane “T.Shane” Johnson was hit by a car of gang members and left for dead on the side of the highway, he knew there were only two options: he could be a victim or a victor. An active Marine, he chose the latter. Despite life-threatening injuries and unimaginable pain, T.Shane dragged himself to a fire station for help, flatlining three times before starting a long and painful road to recovery. Once healed, Johnson retired from active service and became the founder and CEO of a successful mortgage business. In 2008, tragedy struck again when the market crashed. He lost everything and experienced homelessness for over two years. Drawing from the same determination that helped him overcome his near-fatal injuries, T.Shane worked his way back yet again. Today, he is an entrepreneur and CEO of several successful businesses. Always looking for a way to pay it forward, T. Shane has dedicated himself to raising money for homeless veterans and shining a light on the devastating rate of veteran suicides. To date, he’s raised hundreds of thousands hiking across the country multiple times and set a world record for pushups and the fast one-mile run carrying a 100lbs Pack. An acclaimed author and speaker, T.Shane’s story has been featured on Men’s Health, Fox and Friends, Forbes, USA Today, and more.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
01:22 – 08:11 Summary of T. Shane’s 4-year USMC career and the horrific accident that had him flatline three times and ultimately led to his transition out of the military following a long 8 months of rehabilitation.
08:12 – 14:53 Opportunities in the banking and finance sector led T. Shane into a successful mortgage career before the market collapsed in 2008. He lost everything but never gave up. He bounced back and created successful businesses which he continues to operate today.
14:54 – 17:21 T. Shane shares his success and lessons in perseverance through his executive coaching, bestselling books and is currently building Big Guns Coffee with his daughter.
17:22 – 21:16 The upside for T. Shane is being a father and focusing on his mental and physical health. Balance is found within his family.
YOUR MOVE
Transitioning from a military career to a civilian career can be a challenging process. The Make Your Move podcast and book shares real-life stories of post-military career paths and the lessons learned along the way. The information shared in throughout these two resources can make a challenging process easier to navigate. Please share this podcast in your social media feeds and help veterans transitioning out of military service find new rewarding career or business paths.
Order your copy of Make Your Move – Charting Your Post-Military Career here
Get all the resources from this episode at genemoran.com/e54
Learn more about T.Shane’s books and incredible story here
Learn all about Big Guns Coffee here
Connect with T.Shane Johnson here
Zachary Green, United States Marine Corp. (Ret.) took his warrior spirit to corporate America after his active duty and reserve service and later founded his own multi-million-dollar company.
SUMMARY
Zachary Green joined the USMC in 1991 and was assigned to a cold weather infantry unit. His goal was to serve in a combat role but as the years went by it appeared time was going to be spent in Garrison garrison and not fighting. Changes came and went and so after 7 years of service, Zachary decided to transition out.
Without any career transition support from the Military, Zachary took his grit, perseverance, integrity, and courage and paved his own path. A 10-year career in leadership and development at Eli Lilly and serving his community as a volunteer firefighter led to the founding of his company, MN8 LumAware/Firefox. His entrepreneurial spirit had him leave his career at Eli Lilly and start his company from the trunk of his car which he later grew to over $30 million in sales.
He credits military service for giving him the warrior spirit and writes about his experience and how veterans can pursue entrepreneurship after leaving the service in his book – Warrior Entrepreneur. The WarriorAcademe.com is another resource “where warriors regroup to learn the tactics of gaining superiority in both business and life.”
Zachary is passionate about helping veterans pursue the American dream after military service and believes anyone with warrior traits should be given a chance to demonstrate that they have what it takes to succeed in the corporate space.
He chooses not to slow down in life and business and gives back by lecturing graduating Marines about honor and commitment at Parris Island, SC.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
01:06 – 04:50 Summary of Zachary’s 7-year USMC career.
04:51 – 08:34 The decision to transition to civilian life.
08:35 – 13:00 A 10-year career at Eli Lilly and a volunteer firefighter position leads to the founding of Zachary’s business.
13:01 – 17:24 Unexpected upsides and finding work/life balance – Warrior Entrepreneur.
YOUR MOVE
Written by Gene Moran and Alan Weiss, Million Dollar Influence is required reading for everyone who wants a stake in the outcomes in the business of influence. You’ll learn how to place your stake in the ground, marking critical positions that lead to your desired outcome.
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Order your copy of Million Dollar Influence- How to Drive Powerful Decisions Through Language, Leverage, and Leadership here
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Get all the resources from this episode at genemoran.com/e53
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Learn more about Zachary’s book- Warrior Entrepreneur here
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Learn all about the Warrior Academe here
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Connect with Zachary Green here
Dr. Charles Stuppard, Captain, US Navy (Ret.) served just over 30 years before transitioning out of the Navy. His secret ingredient to charting a post-military career path is networking.
SUMMARY
After graduating from Cornell University with a degree in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Charles committed to a 6-year engagement with the US Navy but ended up serving for just over 30 years. He started out at flight school and soon realized he wanted to be at sea where he served on 6 warships including the USS Arleigh Burke as Commanding Officer.
A true leader, Charles was tasked with teaching leadership to incoming commanding officers before taking an assignment in command of the Little Creek-Fort Story joint Navy Army base in Virginia Beach, VA, home of the Navy SEALS and other joint warfighters.
The 30-year mark in Charles Navy career arrived while teaching at the Naval War College and it was then that he realized it was time to transition and chart his post-military career path. He credits his volunteer and board of directors’ service at Cornell University for helping him carve his path which was a road less traveled by many veterans entering the corporate world. Most choose to work for large defense companies whereas Charles chose to lead small and medium businesses allowing him to develop multiple entities before becoming the district director for a Congresswoman in Washington, DC. He now operates his own consulting firm -Consulting & Leadership Services with a focus on leadership, defense and the Middle East.
His secret ingredient to carving a post-military path is networking which he shares throughout the episode.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
01:07 – 07:35 From a degree in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at Cornell University to a distinguished 30-year US Navy career.
07:36 – 11:27 Thinking about transition at the 30-year mark and how networking opened doors to future corporate leadership roles.
11:28 – 21:26 Learning from transition – Networking and mentoring
21:27 – 20:01 Work-Life balance, why selfcare is so important in life and business.
YOUR MOVE
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The Make Your Move podcast is hosted by Gene Moran - Independent Advisor, Corporate Lobbyist, Congressional Liaison and Senior Naval Officer, US Navy Captain (Ret.). Learn more about Gene and Capitol Integration here
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Order your copy of Make Your Move, the book that inspired the Make Your Move podcast here
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Get all the resources from this episode at genemoran.com/e52
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Learn more about Consulting & Leadership Services here
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Connect with Dr. Charles Stuppard here
SUMMARY
Enrique joined the US Navy in 1989 and served 26 years in the meteorology and oceanography community otherwise known as METOC. He served on a Coast Guard Cutter and a Japanese ship before moving to land-based locations such as Hawaii, Florida and finally at METOC headquarters in Mississippi.
The planning for the transition to private life came quickly. With only six months to plan, Enrique had to decide where to move his family and what career path he would embark on after active duty. He credits his family and faith for helping him transition out of the military and starting his new journey in Orlando, Florida.
Having spent 26 years in the meteorology field, Enrique knew that he did not want to pursue a civilian career in the same space. He did however know that his love and passion for leadership would create opportunities and allow him to carve a new career path. After serving in a leadership position at a private company and later at the Florida Environmental Protection Agency, Enrique knew that it was time to go all in and start his own firm - Triad Leadership Solutions.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
02:12 – 06:17 Enrique shares his 26-year US Navy career and duties.
06:18 – 11:30 Six months to plan a transition out of the military. How he did it.
11:31 - 15:18 The love of leadership and the next steps.
15:19 – 20:01 Enrique’s post-military career path and going all in.
22:02 – 25:05 Upsides to post-military career life and finding balance.
Your Move
This podcast was inspired by my book - Make Your Move - Charting Your Post-Military Career. 100% of the proceeds of Make Your Move go to Freedom Fighter Outdoors.
Freedom Fighter Outdoors started as an awareness of the physical, mental and emotional suffering of the men and women who served our country in the military.
Order your copy of Make Your Move here
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e51
Triad Leadership Solutions: https://triadleadershipsolutions.com
Connect with Enrique here
Developing The Leader Within Podcast: https://youtube.com/@dtlwpodcast
If you need assistance securing government funding for your product or solution, schedule a call with Gene or click here to learn more about the services available to help companies to improve their positions. Achieve the significant outcomes seen by the top-performing companies in federal sales.
SUMMARY
Carl Cramb served just over 29 years of active duty Navy service, attaining the rank of Captain. His duties included commanding a ship in Pearl Harbor, Chief of Staff at – US Second Fleet, and five tours at the Pentagon, working on various budget programs.
Carl began to explore the opportunities for transitioning out of the Navy at the 28.5-year mark by seeking advice from several of his mentors. He learned that one should start planning their post-military career early rather than waiting until transitioning out of service. After 29 years of service, Carl retired from the US Navy and entered the program management field before realizing it wasn’t the right fit for him. A move into business development at a US defense company proved to be the right fit and has led Carl to operate his own consulting firm assisting companies serving the defense industry with long-term strategies and business development.
Post-military life has provided Carl with the freedom to spend more time with his family and give back to his community. He is currently the President of the Sarasota- Manatee Council of the US Navy League.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
- 02:25–06:06 Carl shares his 29.5-year US Navy career and duties.
- 06:07 – 09:18 The decision to transition out of military service.
- 09:19 –15:14 Take some time for yourself and have a good perspective on what it is you truly want to do after serving.
- 15:15 – 21:59 The upsides to post-military life and career and finding the right fit.
- 22:00 – 23:54 Finding work/life balance.
Your Move
Show resources:
This book is intended to give back to the military community in which I served. I hope to convey lessons by opening up a bit and sharing some not-so-public details of my career that can save you years of frustration and accelerate your path forward. Another form of the give-back is my plan to provide 100 percent of the profits of this book to a great organization, Freedom Fighter Outdoors. I talk more about it in the book, but I want you to see upfront that this book really isn’t about me; it’s about you and others who will walk this path after us. If you have already left the service and are navigating your next career steps, this book is a great place to start. When service members transition from the military, they need to understand how to correctly leverage their experience into industry. It’s common for former military personnel to struggle to fully adapt in the early years of their new civilian careers. They often need help to navigate the culture change they will be experiencing. They are used to a certain orderliness and to training and becoming an expert at a particular job. In both entrepreneurship and corporate life, the path forward is not always linear or clearly defined.
Order your copy of Make Your Move here.
100% of the proceeds of Make Your Move go to Freedom Fighter Outdoors. Freedom Fighter Outdoors started as an awareness of the physical, mental, and emotional suffering of the men and women who served our country in the military.
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e50
Connect with Carl Cramb here.
Learn about the US Navy League – Sarasota- Manatee Council here.
Order your copy of Million Dollar Influence: How to Drive Powerful Decisions through Language, Leverage, and Leadership at www.milliondollarinfluence.com
If you need assistance securing government grants for your policy or product, schedule a call with Gene or click here to learn more about the services available to help companies to improve their positions and achieve significant improvements in federal sales outcomes.
SUMMARY
Gene has chosen 10 top business tips from the 47 tips he has shared over the 2022 Make Your Move podcast season. In this episode, you will hear from Gene on the following business tips:
- Clear the underbrush
- Cash flow
- Tip generously
- Tell your story
- Tell your story part 2
- Investment vs. financial planning
- Travel hacks
- Think about strategy
- Practice reflection
- Embrace your expertise
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
TOP 10 BUSINESS TIPS FROM THE 2022
- 03:29–08:02 Clear out the underbrush – The key to being organized
- 08:03 – 09:35 Cash flow – Understanding the importance of cash flow
- 09:36 –10:07 Tip generously – Generosity comes back to you
- 10:08 – 13:15 Tell your story – Your identity can differentiate you from others
- 13:16 – 17:27 Tell your story part 2 – What are your values?
- 17:28 – 20:03 Getting investment help – Financial planning vs investment
- 20:04 – 23:25 Travel hacks – World travel and personal exploration
- 23:26 – 26:23 Think strategically
- 26:24 -28:48 The art of reflection – Acknowledge what you have accomplished
- 28:49 – 30:54 Embrace your expertise – Share your authority and your credibility
Your Move
Show resources:
If you’re a veteran, I encourage you to read Make Your Move and listen to the Make Your Move podcast, the book inspired. If you’d like to be a guest on my podcast, I’m accepting connections now for my 2023 episodes. Sharing elements of your story can help you by verbalizing what’s working for you and what you may want to tighten up. It also helps others coming along behind you in the long line of service. Reach back and lend someone else a hand by sharing your own lessons learned. If this interests you, send me an email at gene@capitolintegration.com.
100% of the proceeds of Make Your Move go to Freedom Fighter Outdoors.
Freedom Fighter Outdoors started as an awareness of the physical, mental, and emotional suffering of the men and women who served our country in the military.
Get all the resources from this episode at genemoran.com/e49
Connect with Gene Moran here.
Learn about Gene Moran here.
Order your copy of Million Dollar Influence: How to Drive Powerful Decisions through Language, Leverage, and Leadership at www.milliondollarinfluence.com
Summary Gene provides a review of episodes 42, 43, and 46 and what his three guests focus on for life and professional development. A link to each episode can be found below.
Episode Highlights 00:00– 02:40 Episode 42 highlights with Mitch McGuffie – Decision Making
02:41 – 04:20 Episode 46 highlights with Russ Long – Professional Support
04:21– 06:10 Episode 43 highlights with Chris Kolenda – Professional development and giving back.
Your Move If you’re a veteran, I encourage you to read Make Your Move and listen to the Make Your Move podcast the book inspired. If you’d like to be a guest on my podcast, I’m accepting connections now for my 2023 episodes. Sharing elements of your story can help you by verbalizing what’s working for you and what you may want to tighten up. It also helps others coming along behind you in the long line of service. Reach back and lend someone else a hand up by sharing your own lessons learned. If this interests you, send me an email at gene@capitolintegration.com.
100% of the proceeds of Make Your Move go to Freedom Fighter Outdoors.
Freedom Fighter Outdoors started from an awareness of the physical, mental, and emotional suffering of many of the men and women who served our country in the military.
Get all the resources from this episode at genemoran.com/e48
- Listen to episode 42 with Mitch McGuffie here.
- Listen to episode 43 with Chris Kolenda here.
- Listen to episode 46 with Russ Long here.
Connect with Gene Moran here.
Learn about Gene Moran here.
Connect with Gene on LinkedIn for more useful tips and proven strategies to maximize your post-military career success.
Learn more about Gene here.
Order your copy of Million Dollar Influence: How to Drive Powerful Decisions through Language, Leverage, and Leadership at milliondollarinfluence.net
SUMMARY
The first season of the Make Your Move podcast is in the books. Stories of active duty service and the transition to civilian life and careers have been shared throughout the first 46 episodes. No two stories and answers on the show were alike, even though the questions remained constant throughout the season.
Year one of the podcast demonstrated that success was not dependent on whether a veteran was an officer or an enlisted member and that education was not a deciding factor in post-military career fulfillment. Some went on to start 7 figure companies, and others remained in government service, serving in high-level positions.
The Make Your Move podcast guests served in the Navy, Army, Air Force, Marines, or Coast Guard and all displayed two common character traits—courage and resilience.
Thank you to all veterans helping other veterans chart their post-military careers by sharing their voices and stories on this insightful podcast.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
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00:00– 06:05 Gene recaps what was shared throughout the first 46 episodes.
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06:06 – 11:09 Observations from the interviews demonstrate that success was not dependent on whether someone was an officer or an enlisted member.
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11:10– 14:48 Gene shares what the focus of the Make Your Move podcast will be in 2023.
Your Move
Show resources: Have you ordered your copy of Make Your Move: Charting Your Post-Military Career? After military service, it takes some people years to figure out how to find fulfillment in a new career. And some never find it. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Now available on Amazon.
100% of the proceeds of Make Your Move go to Freedom Fighter Outdoors. Freedom Fighter Outdoors started as an awareness of the physical, mental, and emotional suffering of the men and women who served our country in the military.
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e47
Connect with Gene Moran here
Learn about Gene Moran here
Order your copy of Million Dollar Influence: How to Drive Powerful Decisions through Language, Leverage, and Leadership at www.milliondollarinfluence.com
SUMMARY
A graduate of Air Force Academy, Russ Long obtained his Management Degree and served his country in the contracting field. He explains how he joined the Air Force to see the world yet never left the United States. Working as a deputy to different fight commanders, Russ explains how his work helped the organization as whole.
The contracting field in the Air Force is a civilian heavy organization and the bureaucracy can hinder progress on numerous fronts. This along with limited control over his active duty career path led Russ to transition out of the military after five and a half years to focus on his startup, Long Capture.
Russ shares how talking to the right people and groups can help a future entrepreneur transition out of service while starting a new enterprise. The traditional network one may associate with in the military may not be the right group to look for guidance when exploring this post-military career path.
Entrepreneurship has many challenges including finances, staffing and business development. Russ shares the challenges he faced during his startup and how scaling up his business occurred only after building a solid foundation.
Russ now enjoys the freedom of working with his team at Long Capture and shares how he finds balance in life and his business. Spending time in the right places is key for his success.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
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01:15– 00:8:31: US Air Force veteran Russ Long shares his career as a Contracting Officer and the duties associated with the responsibility.
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00:8:32 – 00:14:41 Russ discusses how he made the decision to transition out of the service after five and a half years and how he founded his company, Long Capture which is now a multi-million dollar company assisting tech companies looking to sell to the federal government.
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00:14:42 – 00:19:00 Russ shares how obtaining career transition guidance from a traditional military network on entrepreneurship may not be the best avenue when starting a new post-military career enterprise.
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00:19:01 – 00:27:06. When it comes to balance, Russ advises people to spend time in the right places and to value your time. He and Gene discuss the importance of reading and how what we learn from reading contributes to life and business success.
Your Move
Show resources: There is only two weeks before Christmas. Make Your Move – Charting Your Post-Military Career is a great resource and gift for anyone who is about to or has transitioned out of military service. Order your copy at Amazon.
100% of the proceeds of Make Your Move go to Freedom Fighter Outdoors.
Freedom Fighter Outdoors started as an awareness of the physical, mental and emotional suffering of the men and women who served our country in the military.
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e46
Connect with Russ Long here
Learn about Long Capture here
Order your copy of Million Dollar Influence: How to Drive Powerful Decisions through Language, Leverage, and Leadership at www.milliondollarinfluence.com
SUMMARY
Darin Bibeau joined the US Coast Guard in 1994 and served on a 270-foot cutter before joining a small boat station to operate rigid hull boats and carry out search and rescue operations. He was then selected to attend the Deployable Specialized Forces selection course in Miami and upon successful completion, served in Miami carrying out ship boarding and drug seizure operations. He credits the Coast Guard for giving him the opportunity to serve under great mentors and for giving him the opportunity to lead small teams of his own.
After 8 years of service, Darin transitioned out of military service and became a special operator for a contracting company in Southeastern Asia. Darin returned to the US and settled in Vermont and became a partner in a business which manufactures stainless steel parts for the venting industry. He credits his operational and leadership experience gained from his time in service for the success he enjoys as CEO and owner of National Chimney.
Darin is passionate about helping veterans articulate their ability to lead when entering the corporate world. So much so that he wrote a book called Back to Bullet Proof: A Warriors Tactical Guide to Success.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
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00:52– 00:7:57: US Coast Guard veteran Darin Bibeau shares his 8 year military career, including his time as a Deployable Specialized Forces member.
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00:7:58 – 00:19:06 Darin shares his decision to transition out of military service and work as a special operator in Southeast Asia before returning to Vermont to become a partner in his current business, leading a few hundred team members. He credits his military experience and having core values for his success in business and in life.
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00:19:07 – 00:22:22 Darin and Gene discuss the three essential elements of balance and giving back to the community.
Your Move
Show resources: Need a gift idea for the veteran in your life? Make Your Move – Charting Your Post-Military Career is a great resource for anyone who is about to or has transitioned out of military service.
Through Gene’s story, you’ll discover how to navigate between the lighthouses and navigation aids in your own life that can lead to inspiration, opportunity, experience, ownership and growth.
100% of the proceeds of Make Your Move go to Freedom Fighter Outdoors.
Freedom Fighter Outdoors started as an awareness of the physical, mental and emotional suffering of the men and women who served our country in the military.
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e45
Connect with Darin Bibeau here
Learn about Darin’s book here
Learn about Darin’s company - National Chimney here.
Order your copy of Million Dollar Influence: How to Drive Powerful Decisions through Language, Leverage, and Leadership at www.milliondollarinfluence.com
SUMMARY
Darren Whiddon was commissioned as an Armor Officer and served with the 3rd Armor Cavalry Regiment for four years. He then transitioned out of active duty service and joined the reserves while working in the pulp and paper industry as a scheduler and project manager.
The events following 9/11 saw Darren return to service with the 108th Training Battalion, where he was later tasked with advising the Iraqi Army for a period of one year. Darren returned to the US to train his home unit before transitioning out of military service.
Darren shares his experience with headhunters looking for veterans with combat experience to fill entry and mid-level management positions with fortune 500 companies and his initial start in the consulting industry before joining a company as a program manager in the defense industry.
Later promoted to Vice President of programs and overseeing three business units, Darren explains how the acquisition of the company had him move into a business development role until 2015, when he went on to operate his own consulting firm, DKW Consulting. Gene and Darren review the learning points around operating a consulting firm and why one should embrace the learning opportunities in front in order to leverage that knowledge on any post-military career path.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
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00:02:10– 00:6:40: US Army veteran Darren Whiddon shares his military career both in active duty and with the reserves, including being an advisor with the Iraqi Army.
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00:6:41 – 00:18:00 Darren discusses how he had little to no guidance with transitioning out of the service due to operational requirements and how he entered the corporate world working at various companies in a project and program management role. He later became the VP of programs overseeing three business units servicing the defense industry before running and operating his own consulting firm.
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00:18:01 – 00:31:01 Gene and Darren review the key lessons learned in business acquisition and operating a consulting firm.
Your Move
Show resources: Have you read Make Your Move – Charting Your Post-Military Career?.
100% of the proceeds of Make Your Move go to Freedom Fighter Outdoors. Freedom Fighter Outdoors started as an awareness of the physical, mental, and emotional suffering of the men and women who served our country in the military.
Vinnie LaSorsa decided to do something about it in 2009.
Since that time, Freedom Fighter Outdoors has been raising awareness and seeking public aid for needs, services, and activities for injured veterans.
Their events facilitate injured veterans in assisting each other through teamwork by providing unique, once-in-a-lifetime outdoor activities.
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e44
Connect with Darren Whiddon here
Learn about DKW Consulting here
What is IDIQ? Learn all about it here.
Order your copy of Million Dollar Influence: How to Drive Powerful Decisions through Language, Leverage, and Leadership at www.milliondollarinfluence.com
SUMMARY
A lifelong Cavalry Trooper, retired US army Colonel, Chris Kolenda graduated from the United States Military Academy in 1987 and went on to serve in various assignments, including commanding 800 paratroopers in Eastern Afghanistan.
He served as a senior advisor to three of the 4-star generals in Afghanistan and two Secretaries of Defense before transitioning out of service in 2011 to become the Secretary of Defense representative in the peace talks with the Taliban. Chris then returned to Afghanistan as a civilian to support General Dunford as his Senior Advisor.
In 2014 Chris resigned from his government position and began to pursue his business and consulting interest in leadership and organizational management.
Chris continues to operate his successful consulting firm, Strategic Leaders Academy, and shares how his 1700-mile bicycle ride to honor his unit’s six paratroopers who lost their lives in Afghanistan led to the founding of the Saber Six Foundation. The honor ride and the foundation are focused on honoring the dead and raising funds for the living.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
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00:01:09– 00:10:39: Retired US Army Colonel, Chris Kolenda shares his military career as a warrior and a diplomat before transitioning out of service to become the Secretary of Defense representative in the peace talks with the Taliban.
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00:10:40 – 00:15:19 Chris discusses why he chose to start his own business rather than join a company as an employee after leaving the government and how the sense of purpose one gets from serving in the military is not the same as serving a for-profit company.
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00:15:20 – 00:23:29 Chris shares how he prepared for transition and the lack thereof and why he decided to start his own consulting firm in 2014 rather than work for an existing firm.
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00:23:30 – 00:33:09. Chris shares his life after the military and how working for himself allows him to do things like his 1700-mile bicycle ride to visit the graves of the six soldiers from his unit that died in 2007 while serving in Afghanistan. He also discusses the challenges veterans face after leaving the military and why balance is giving time to each priority in your life and being fully present when you do so.
Your Move
Show resources: There is a complete shift in culture when you transition from the military to the corporate world. The focus is no longer on readiness nor even on not losing money —it’s always about making money. It makes sense and, is in most ways, obvious. It’s the reason companies are in business—to make money. But the cultural shift is enormous. Reading this book, you’ll come to see why. genemoran.com/make-your-move/
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e43
Connect with Chris Kolenda: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriskolenda/
“Our mission is to help successful people gain new heights by being the best versions of themselves and helping others contribute their best and most authentic selves to your team’s success” Learn about the Strategic Leaders Academy here: https://strategicleadersacademy.com/
Learn about the Saber Six Foundation and donate here: https://sabersixfoundation.com/
Order your copy of Million Dollar Influence: How to Drive Powerful Decisions through Language, Leverage, and Leadership at www.milliondollarinfluence.com
SUMMARY
Mitch McGuffie graduated from the Naval Academy in 2003 and became a Surface Warfare Officer. His Naval career included a post on a British ship as an assistant navigator, a post with the Navy Senate Liaison Office, and as a Commanding Officer on a patrol ship in Bahrain.
Putting his family first, Mitch made the difficult but clear decision to transition out of the Navy during his tour in Bahrain in 2015. He and Gene discuss why self-reflection is an important requirement to make the decision to transition out of service.
After leaving the Navy, Mitch attended graduate school, which he credits to giving him the time to adjust to civilian life before moving into corporate America. He advises to make your transition mistakes early and that you can experience what you don’t want to know what it is you do want. That means your first post-military career may not be the right fit and that you can make the decision to move on.
Mitch credits his mentors for guiding him through his Navy and his post-military career and that a mentor should be someone who can ask you the questions which you can answer to make the right decisions in life.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
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00:02:36– 00:07:35: Mitch shares his career as a Surface Warfare Officer with the US Navy
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00:07:36 – 00:12:15 Mitch discusses why and how he made the decision to transition out of the Navy
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00:12:16 – 00:27:15 Gene and Mitch discuss the things one can consider when transitioning out of service and the importance of having mentors to help guide and formulate the questions you need answers to when deciding to make your move.
Your Move
Show resources: The one certainty for those who serve in the armed forces is that they will one day leave the service. It’s as certain as death and taxes. We all get out. It’s just a matter of when and how. Then the question quickly becomes, “What’s next?” We typically turn to other former service members to help answer this question, but they may not be the best people to ask. It may be time for you to find new mentors and guides. Reading this book, you’ll come to see why. genemoran.com/make-your-move/
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e42
Necessary Endings book link: https://www.amazon.com/Necessary-Endings-Henry-Cloud/dp/0061777129/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1667398259&sr=8-1
Connect with Mitch McGuffie https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchellmcguffie/
Order your copy of Million Dollar Influence: How to Drive Powerful Decisions through Language, Leverage, and Leadership at www.milliondollarinfluence.com
SUMMARY
Larry shares his 21 years of Marine Corps active duty service. He trained as a logistics officer and joined the fleet before attending the amphibious warfare school in Quantico. Larry returned to fleet service for a brief time and then attended Naval Post Grad School in Monterey.
Larry then morphed into an acquisition professional working on the high-speed vessel program and other acquisition programs taking him to retirement in 2007.
He credits the job opportunities in the DC area and his mentors for a successful transition from active duty to corporate America.
Larry now heads the business development and government relations team at Austal USA and shares why setting boundaries is important for maintaining work-life balance.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
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00:01:56 – 00:06:29: Larry shares his 21 years of Marine Corps active duty service and his logistics and acquisition journey.
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00:06:30 – 00:18:14 Larry takes us through how he made the decision to transition out of the Marine Corps in 2007 and how the Washington, DC job opportunities made the move into corporate America fairly seamless. Now in his fourth job since leaving active duty, Larry now heads the business development team at Austal USA.
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00:18:15 – 00:22:14 Gene and Larry discuss setting boundaries in order to maintain a proper work-life balance.
Your Move
Show resources: I believe those with prior military service often possess enormous untapped potential. Service offers all members a framework for success, but learning to apply those lessons takes effort. I hope the shared examples of adapting to new situations during service will remind you of your own hard-won lessons in courage, leadership, and diplomacy. After retirement from service, you must draw on your senses of situational awareness and discernment to create your own light list. Blooming where planted has certainly worked for me time after time. But after military service, you really can choose where you want to plant yourself. genemoran.com/make-your-move/
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e41
Pre-order your copy of Million Dollar Influence: How to Drive Powerful Decisions through Language, Leverage, and Leadership at www.milliondollarinfluence.com
SUMMARY
While studying business in his senior year at college, George took a summer internship with the US Coast Guard where they actively tried to recruit him for active duty. George completed his senior year of college and chose a full-time civilian role at a USCG district office in Boston. His decision to transition to active duty came after the perfect storm rescue off the coast of New England on Halloween, 1990.
George attended Officer Candidate School and set out to be a Coast Guard Ship Captain. His afloat assignments were on larger Coast Guard medium endurance cutters and a 100-foot class patrol boat out of Miami. George obtained his MBA from Columbia Business School in New York and transferred to Coast Guard headquarters in Washington, DC where he served as a financial manager.
George then served on the CG Cutter Vigilant at Cape Canaveral before returning to Washington, DC as a Coast Guard Fellow on the Senate Appropriations Committee. That brought him to the 20-year career mark and the decision to transition out of active duty.
His post-military career includes being a Senior Advisor for a medium-sized private sector company seeking assistance in selling to the Department of Homeland Security. After two years in the private sector, George returned to the US government in a Senior Executive Service position with DHS before becoming the Deputy Chief Management Officer, Department of the Navy and later as the Deputy Comptroller (Budget & Appropriations Affairs), Department of Defense.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
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00:01:42 – 00:08:51: George shares what lead him to Officer Candidate School and a 20-year career with the United States Coast Guard. He also shares his “afloat assignments” as and the various ships he served in. He obtained his MBA and later served as a Coast Guard Fellow on the Senate Appropriations Committee.
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00:08:52 – 00:22:31 George talks about the decision to transition out of active duty after serving 20 years with USCG and his post-military career journey.
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00:22:32 – 00:30:39 Gene and George discuss how to prepare for a post-military career transition.
Your Move
Show resources: I believe those with prior military service often possess enormous untapped potential. Service offers all members a framework for success, but learning to apply those lessons takes effort. I hope the shared examples of adapting to new situations during service will remind you of your own hard-won lessons in courage, leadership and diplomacy. After retirement from service, you must draw on your senses of situational awareness and discernment to create your own light list. Blooming where planted has certainly worked for me time after time. But after military service, you really can choose where you want to plant yourself.genemoran.com/make-your-move/
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e40
- Connect with George Kovatch https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-e-kovatch-73a08a3/
Pre-order your copy of Million Dollar Influence: How to Drive Powerful Decisions through Language, Leverage, and Leadership at www.milliondollarinfluence.com
SUMMARY
Paul Mayo joined the Air Force and chose to be a missileer upon graduating from the USAF academy. He shares a tidbit of how life underground can be while operating missile silos and how he decided to transition out of the Air Force after 5.5 years of service.
Paul’s spouse is currently serving in the Air Force and approaching 20 years of service. This is one of the reasons Paul chose to leave the service. The various geographical assignments each would have while serving would keep them apart. In 2008, Paul transitioned out of the military with the help of the Transition Assistance Program and joined his wife in England.
His civilian career path started in England where he worked as a director of team programs at a youth centre. A move back to the US, lead Paul and his wife to Travis Air Force Base where Paul utilized the services of a military and veterans staffing agency called Bradley Morris to enter the oil and gas sector. A slowdown in the oil sector and a move to Boston lead Paul to a business development role at Globe Composite Solutions. He is now based in Hawaii and continues to work for ESCO Technologies subsidiaries - Globe Composite Solutions, Westland Technologies and Vacco Industries.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
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00:01:45 – 00:07:24: Paul shares his Air Force career as a missileer and his decision to transition out of the military to become a “trailing spouse.”
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00:07:25 – 00:19:04 Follow Paul’s career path starting in England as a director of programs at a youth centre, on to California where he joined the oil and gas sector before taking a business development role with Globe Composite Solutions in Boston. Paul continues to play a role in the ESCO group of companies from his home in Hawaii.
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00:19:05 – 00:20:10 Paul and Gene discuss finding balance.
Your Move
Show resources: The military offers an amazing path for learning and moving up but no such clear path for moving out. Each person has to take the lessons from service and make the decision to retire when the time is right for them. How they synthesize the courage, competition and coordination the military teaches will determine their ability to succeed. You’ve had guides along the way. Will those same guides serve you through this very different transition? This book will help you answer that question: genemoran.com/make-your-move/
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e39
- Connect with Paul Mayo https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-mayo/
- Link to each service’s Transition Assistance Program: https://www.dodtap.mil/dodtap/app/home
- Bradley Morris - https://www.bradley-morris.com/
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- Paul partnered with them to land great jobs with MiSWACO job (2011) and Globe Composite (2019)
- Former employer: Mi SWACO, a Schlumberger Co - https://www.slb.com/companies/m-i-swaco
- Current Companies (all ESCO subsidiaries):
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- Globe Composite Solutions - https://www.globecomposite.com/
- Westland Technologies - https://westlandtech.com/
- VACCO Industries - https://www.vacco.com/
Pre-order your copy of Million Dollar Influence: How to Drive Powerful Decisions through Language, Leverage, and Leadership at www.milliondollarinfluence.com
SUMMARY
With more than 24 years in uniform, retiring as a Navy Captain, Gene now owns and operates his own firm helping businesses navigate the federal sales environment, resulting in billions of dollars to their bottom lines. Gene also gives back to veterans by sharing his post-military career experience through his book: Make Your Move – Charting Your Post-Military Career and the Make Your Move Podcast. In honor of our nation’s veterans, 100% of the proceeds of this book are being donated to support Freedom Fighter Outdoors.
Your military service brings value to any company, how do you articulate that value to a for-profit entity? Gene talks about making an investment in yourself through continued learning and why having great mentors and a plan can help prepare you for post-military life. Gene also describes why you should give yourself permission to think differently in civilian life while maintaining your military heritage.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
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00:01:01 – 00:07:24: Gene talks about aspects of career transition and the decision to leave military service. Having a plan for your future is important. This includes making an investment in yourself be it financial or academic to shine light on the value you can bring to any organization.
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00:07:25 – 00:13:33 Gene shares how to focus on your future self and what that could look like. Reaching full retirement age comes quick and you may recognize that you’re not where you thought you were going to be. You need a plan.
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00:13:34 – 00:18:01: Gene shares three tips on how you might shape your future self.
Your Move
Show resources: Military members often reach out to me when they’re struggling to find fulfillment. Their individual stories share so many common themes that I’m convinced some of them are universal. I’ve also advised enough corporate clients and leadership teams to see that military retirement shares many attributes with corporate and life transitions. For example, all include elements of planning, self-assessment and mentorship. Developing these skills is vital for a growth mindset. I have devoted a chapter to each principle I believe is key to a successful transition..: genemoran.com/make-your-move/
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e38
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran/ or visit genemoran.com.
Pre-order your copy of Million Dollar Influence: How to Drive Powerful Decisions through Language, Leverage, and Leadership at www.milliondollarinfluence.com
SUMMARY
Sabrina Sweet joined the US Navy after graduating from high school on advice from a friend. Without knowing exactly what she wanted to pursue in the Navy, she browsed the offered career opportunities and chose cryptology.
She went on to serve at the National Security Agency in Washington, DC, and Okinawa, Japan before returning to the US to complete her 8 years of service.
Sabrina leaned on her family for support during her transition from military to civilian life before joining a Fortune 500 company where she worked her way up to an operations manager. Sabrina embarked on a new career path as an employment representative for local veterans with the state of Florida after technological improvements lead to the downsizing of her department. She is now proudly assisting veterans with their post-military career needs and services.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
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00:00:37 – 00:07:09: Sabrina Sweet discusses how she ended up joining the US Navy and her service as a cryptologist with the National Security Agency.
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00:07:09 – 00:14:44 Sabrina Sweet shares her transition to civilian life after 8 years of service and how she leaned on family for support due to a lack of career support services available to veterans at the time of transition. She then shares her career at a Fortune 500 company before moving on to the state of Florida as an employment representative for local veterans.
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00:14:44 – 00:25:22: Sabrina Sweet talks about leadership and how she works with various stakeholders to assist veterans chart their post-military career.
Your Move
Show resources: Recognizing the value of consistently investing in my personal growth has opened doors and opportunities that were unimaginable to me as I left the Navy. Your experiences have value, just as mine do. Yours will be different. Don’t make a literal comparison to the stories I’ve shared or the path I have chosen. Take your own inventory. Press the boundaries of your present circumstances. Identify how you may be self-editing your own dreams. Is it possible, even just a little, that fear is keeping you from doing something different?
I hope this book inspires you to think more clearly about how you move beyond your transition: genemoran.com/make-your-move/
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e37.
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran/ or visit genemoran.com.
Connect with Sabrina Sweet on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/s-sweet-97370324b
H3 SUMMARY
A 27-year U.S. Army veteran, Adrian Matute worked as a detailed recruiter and later as a center commander at some of the largest recruiting centers in the country.
Today, Matute serves as a Senior Talent Acquisition Manager at Evoque, a portfolio company of Brookfield Infrastructure Partners, a renowned international infrastructure asset manager that owns and manages high-quality, long-lived assets in the utilities, transportation, midstream, and data sectors throughout North and South America, Asia Pacific, and Europe. In his role as a Senior Manager, Matute is looking to establish connections with and hire the best people in finance, accounting, human resources, sales support, customer success, account management, and cyber security.
Evoque provides local and international enterprises with an unmatched selection of services, connectivity, cloud engineering, and IT solutions across regions. In addition, the business serves a varied clientele of mid to large-size companies and hyper-scale clients from various industries, assisting them in adhering to rules like HIPAA, NIST, ISO, and others.
H3 EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
- 00:00:23.770 – 00:02:56.230: Matute discusses his 27 years of military service, as well as the personal factors that influenced his decision to become a U.S. veteran. He eventually transitions from discussing his departure from the military to talking about his transition into a post-military career.
- 00:02:57.910 – 00:06:38.650: Matute discusses beginning his post-military career in sales with Cellular One and later Horizon Wireless. After facing much pressure amid an emerging tech bubble, Matute describes his transition over to Verizon Wireless.
- 00:08:14.890 – 00:12:35.640: Matute discusses how the transition to post-military life and career path has affected him, his family, and his ex-military peers. He emphasizes that achieving personal balance and professional success is never impossible -- that one needs to optimize their talents, self-control, and connections. Matute finalizes this point when he talks about his current job as a Senior Manager of Talent Acquisition for Evoque’s Data Center Solutions department.
H3 Your Move
H3 Show resources: Be an early adopter and evolve for your benefit! To change the world, you must first change yours: genemoran.com/make-your-move/
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e36.
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran/ or visit genemoran.com.
Connect with Adrian Matute on his LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/adrian-matute-47307bb6/ or visit his company website at www.evoquedcs.com/.
SUMMARY
As a Marine Corps infantry officer, Congressman Moulton served four tours in Iraq, including two as a platoon commander and two as General David Petraeus’ Special Assistant. He left the Marine Corps in 2008 with the rank of Captain. Prior to this, he attended Phillips Academy Andover and (eventually) Harvard University, graduating in 2001 with a degree in physics.
After serving in Iraq, Congressman Moulton used the G.I. Bill to complete combined degrees in public administration and business before joining Texas Central as managing director and constructing the nation’s first high-speed train line. Eventually, on the promise of providing fresh leadership to Congress, Congressman Moulton was chosen to represent Massachusetts in 2014. He co-chaired the Future of Defense Task Force as a member of the House Armed Services Committee, and it recently released a groundbreaking bipartisan report on the difficult decisions and wise investments we must make to maintain our national security for the ensuing decades.
Today, Congressman Moulton is concentrating on improving veterans’ health care and fostering economic growth for Massachusetts families.
**EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS**
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00:00:41.390 – 00:09:38.490: Congressman Moulton discusses his service in the U.S. Marine Corps infantry, as well as his 4 tours during the Iraq War. He talks about his transition into a platoon commander, as well as his life prior to joining the Marines. He also talks about how his decision to join the Marine Corps and how his Harvard education and attendance at the Memorial Church influenced many of his later actions and relationships.
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00:09:38.490 – 00:16:38.589: Congressman Moulton touches upon his transition from the marines to continuing his education and becoming a Congressman and member of the Armed Services Committee.
- 00:16:38.660 – 00:18:59.519: Congressman Moulton emphasizes the importance of balance when taking on personal and professional responsibilities. He does this by addressing the impact balance has on one's mental and physical health, as well as on their sense of accomplishment.
Your Move
**Show resources:** Be an early adopter and evolve for your benefit! To change the world, you must first change yours: genemoran.com/make-your-move/
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e35.
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran/ or visit genemoran.com.
Connect with Congressman Moulton on LinkedIn (linkedin.com/in/sethmoulton), Facebook (facebook.com/RepMoulton/), Twitter (twitter.com/repmoulton), Instagram (instagram.com/repmoulton), or visit his website (moulton.house.gov).
SUMMARY
Listen to episode #34 where the host, Gene Moran, reviews a conversation he had with a senior government official contemplating their next move. In particular, he examines important concepts from Make Your Move: Charting Your Post-Military Career, the myth of safety in the corporate role as it relates to organizational changes, getting out of your “bubble,” and making a corporate transition.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
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00:00:22.509 – 00:07:51.560: Gene discusses the importance of various concepts in the book, Make Your Move. Specifically, he talks about being inspired by the concept of raising a “ceiling” after retiring from active duty as a U.S. veteran. Moreover, Gene breaks down conceptual barriers by asking listeners to think about what the idea of retirement truly means or encapsulates to us – both personally and professionally.
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00:07:52.000 – 00:12:59.029: Gene talks about considering what we want to experience in transitional changes: What is the kind of work that you really enjoy? You may be very good at something, but does what you believe you are good at fulfill you professionally? Do you enjoy being in charge? Working / leading / or depending on a team? Is control of how things are done something you value? Most importantly, how can you recognize the available opportunities out there that can provide you with fulfillment?
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00:13:00.000 – 00:24:54.320: Gene discusses the concept of safety in the corporate role as it relates to organizational changes, corporate and government, and headquarters vs. P&L. He emphasizes the fact that working through such considerations (along with work hours, health concerns, experience, family considerations, networking, etc.) can help you identify things you are looking for, as well as what you may want to avoid.
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00:25:00.000 – 00:25:49.560: Gene finalizes his discussion on getting out of your bubble and making a corporate transition to truly “Make Your Move”. In doing so, Gene illustrates the value of looking forward and beyond – not back.
Your Move
Show resources: Be an early adopter and evolve for your benefit! To change the world, you must first change yours: genemoran.com/make-your-move/
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e34.
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran/ or visit genemoran.com.
SUMMARY
Lindsey Streeter retired as a Command Sergeant Major with 31 years of service in the U.S. Army. During his military career, he served in senior NCO leadership positions at the company, battalion, and brigade levels. He has a wealth of leadership expertise from his time at the U.S. Army Recruiting Command. While there, he participated as a professional witness on recruiting issues before the Senate Armed Forces Committee.
Streeter holds a Master of Commerce degree from Grantham University. His broad range of expertise includes recruiting, training, marketing, community relations, program administration, and leadership. Fittingly, Streeter transitioned from the military to a senior position in the banking industry. He intends to keep in touch through military channels, purely to help soldiers and their families. As an ambassador for the U.S. Army Reserve, he also continues to assist the soldiers in Georgia. In addition, Streeter currently serves as owner of the Savannah Hurricanes professional basketball team and ESG program manager, senior vice president of global military affairs at Bank of America.
Bank of America is an American multinational investment bank and financial services holding company that supports U.S. military veteran entrepreneurs and employees. Veterans can advance their careers by utilizing the training programs and mentorship opportunities provided by Bank of America. Additionally, there are many opportunities for guided mentoring of other service personnel, veterans, and military spouses — aiding them in navigating the uncharted territory of civilian life and their new roles.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
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00:00:31.5109 – 00:05:28.600: Lindsey Streeter begins by discussing his years of active duty in the U.S. army. By touching upon the transition into becoming a Command Segreant Major, Streeter also talks about his eventual retirement (after 31 years of service) and the pursuit of a post-military career path.
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00:07:43.360 – 00:09:16.830: Streeter discusses a predicament many veterans find themselves in when transitioning into civilian life: Finding themselves in multiple jobs in short order and being unable to find stable employment. In talking about veteran turnover, Streeter goes into discussing his own career at Bank of America.
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00:09:54.570 – 00:15:32.440: In talking about his job at Bank of America, Streeter emphasizes the company’s larger role in helping veterans and military families across the country with uprooting and employment assimilation.
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00: 15:32.450 – 00:18:00.909: Streeter focuses on the importance of “learning how to sell yourself” when transitioning (as a former veteran) into a post-military workplace sphere.
Your Move
Show resources: Be an early adopter and evolve for your benefit! To change the world, you must first change yours: genemoran.com/make-your-move/
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e33.
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran/ or visit genemoran.com.
Connect with Lindsey Streeter on his LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/lindsey-streeter-ms-business-performance-improvement-345aa22a/ or visit his company website at careers.bankofamerica.com/en-us/culture/diversity-inclusion/veterans.
SUMMARY
Cary G. Campbell, Sr., is a retired U.S. Navy leader. Along with his service as a veteran, Cary is also experienced in Program Management, with a demonstrated history of working in the staffing and recruiting industry. He has grown his skills in career development, coaching, team building, and public speaking. Moreover, Cary earned his Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) from the University of Phoenix while serving in the military. Since then, he has developed into a strong professional in community and social services, focusing on business management.
Cary is currently employed by CareerSource West Palm Beach (the nonprofit agency chartered by Florida to lead workforce development in the county) as the Disabled Veterans Outreach Program Specialist. Specifically, CareerSource Palm Beach County serves a region of 1.3 million persons. Through the provision of a comprehensive range of services for both employers and job seekers, the organization links business with talent. CareerSource has also helped 28,000 locals find employment in the past program year, from entry-level jobs to executive positions, with a local economic effect of $560 million in yearly salaries. The company provides free seminars, facilities, and advising for career development and job search, as well as grants for training in employment skills. Its Center for Business Excellence for employers is presently in Boca Raton.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
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00:00:40.209 – 00:06:31.950: Cary discusses his nearly 22-year-long background as a U.S. veteran and Navy officer. He touches upon growing his management and logistics skills while overseeing ordinances and weapon-building there. From here, he transitions into discussing his accelerated academic career; he worked his way from an associate degree to a Master’s in Business Administration (M.B.A.).
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00:06:49.529 – 00:11.20.430: Cary talks about his post-military career development path after getting his master’s degree. Specifically, he touches on finding a job in Palm Beach Country through his connections while growing his leadership and management skills.
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00:11.20.430 – 00:17.33.600: Cary talks about his work at CareerSource and what it takes to help job seekers in the area. He also highlighted his work with disabled veterans who are currently unemployed (mostly due to various barriers to employment) and seeking career support. In doing so, he explores the importance of overcoming obstacles in post-military life and laying a foundation to stand on.
Your Move
Show resources: Be an early adopter and evolve for your benefit! To change the world, you must first change yours: genemoran.com/make-your-move/
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e32.
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran/ or visit genemoran.com.
Connect with Cary Campbell on his LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/cary-g-campbell-sr-mba-usn-ret-4088a385/ or visit his company website at careersourcepbc.com/.
SUMMARY
Mike Ledbetter shares his 29.5-years as an active duty and reserve officer in the United States Marine Corps. Mike’s nontraditional career path began with the Infantry Officer Course before becoming a Marine F/A 18 aviator and later transitioning into the acquisition field. Mike also served in Iraq as a Company Commander after being activated while flying for American Airlines, and this is when he discovered the airline business wasn’t for him. He wanted to do something in the business world and so he did.
Mike went on to work for a medical devices company and a consulting firm before entering the acquisition business. He shares his passion for learning and how he finds balance in daily life.
Enjoy this episode of The Make Your Move Podcast.
H3 EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
- 00:00:00.000 – 00:11:45: Mike discusses his active duty and reserve service with the United States Marine Corps before transitioning into civil aviation as an airline pilot. The airline industry wasn’t for him and thus the journey into the business world began.
- 00:11:45.000 – 00:15:51.000: Mike discusses his time in the acquisition sector and how he uses those skills at his company serving the defense industrial base.
- 00:15:51:000 – 00:22:30.000: Mike shares his educational journey and how his studies are geared around the defense industrial base and later shares what his “do over” in life would be.
Your Move
Show resources: Are you returning to civilian life after serving in the military? Chart your post-military career with Gene’s book: genemoran.com/make-your-move/
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e31
Connect with Mike Ledbetter:
LinkedIn- linkedin.com/in/mikeledbetter7523
Email– mledbetter@colsa.com/mhledbetter@gmail.com
Phone–256-347-4762
Company Website– www.colsa.com
SUMMARY
Mathew was also a graduate of Florida Atlantic University's College of Business. During his service in the U.S. military, he was responsible for weapons maintenance; he analyzed unit progress and developed and implemented training programs to improve skills and performance. As a result of his service, he received 4 accommodation certificates for his outstanding performance and participation in the Global War on Terrorism.
After serving in the military, Mathew worked as an e-commerce search analyst for Office Depot and OfficeMax. Both merged into the nation’s largest chain of furniture, electronics, print services, and other office supplies. Eventually, he joined PeakActivity as its 10th employee.
PeakActivity is a technology and marketing consultancy that works with businesses to increase online sales and brand presence through digital acceleration. The company also advances businesses through each stage of their digital journey; they do this through modernization, optimization, innovation, and engineering services. Currently, Mathew serves as PeakActivity's Director of Data & Analytics.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
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00:00:32.520 – 00:07:58.260: Mathew discusses his time serving in the military (being a U.S. Marine, doing a tour in Afghanistan, building units, etc.). He touches upon how his active duty impacted his family and his education. Moreover, he emphasizes the skill building and strategic thinking he developed during his time in the U.S. military.
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00:08:18.120 – 00:16:00.450: Following his post-military life, Mathew talks about the journey he took when furthering his education and finding a career in security. In doing so, Mathew touches upon his ever-evolving networking skills. Mathew also emphasizes the effects his service in the military had on his personal and professional life. Essentially, he relays the work he put into balancing his military service with his career.
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00:16:27.330 – 00:20:50.340: While discussing the finalization of his post-military transition, Mathew also talks about his career at Office Depot and at Office Max. Following this, he talks about his latest career transition into PeakActivity. He culminates his discussion by touching on the importance of maintaining a post-military balance through corporate intensity and personal relationships – especially friendships.
Your Move
Show resources: Be an early adopter and evolve for your benefit! To change the world, you must first change yours: genemoran.com/make-your-move/
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e30.
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran/ or visit genemoran.com.
Connect with Mathew Vermilyer on his LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/mathewvermilyer/ or visit his company website at peakactivity.com/.
SUMMARY
Gene Moran serves as a valued speaker and advisor to those looking for professions in a post-military lifestyle in his capacity as the host of Make Your Move. Gene offers free business advice in this episode that is essential for both individual and professional success. He offers advice on how to network more effectively, how to diversify one's network, how to write, how to invest, how to add value, how to be self-aware, and how to take chances to improve oneself.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
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00:00:00.000 – 00:02:16.000: Gene discusses the importance of connecting with organizations to form veteran-and-business-based coalition advocacies.
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00:02:16.000 – 00:05:02.000: Gene talks about the value of cash flow for financial and personal management.
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00:05:02:000 – 00:07:37.000: Gene touches on the vitality of embracing one’s expertise and gaining confidence in one’s skillsets.
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00:07:37.000 – 00:09:55.000: Gene recalls how one can successfully attempt to navigate and “figure out” the business he or she is in.
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00:09:55.000 – 00:11:17.000: Gene describes the importance of understanding the GI Bill and its key components.
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00:11:17.000 – 00:14:12.000: Gene talks about how advice and support are crucial to financial and investment planning – both of which make up your personal and professional life.
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00:14:12.000 – 00:17:53.000: Gene encourages listeners to tell their stories of their military service.
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00:17:53.000 – 00:20:32.000: Gene describes why one should understand the funding mechanisms of his or her contracts and how one can do so.
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00:20:32.000 – 00:23:16.000: Gene touches upon how one can practice the act of reflection upon one’s personal and professional accomplishments.
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00:23:16.000 – 00:25:14.000: Gene closes his Business Tips by talking about how and why trade shows can be helpful in assisting anyone pursuing a career in business.
Your Move
Show resources: Be an early adopter and evolve for your benefit! To change the world, you must first change yours: genemoran.com/make-your-move/
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e29.
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran/ or visit genemoran.com.
SUMMARY
Stu is a distinguished U.S. Army (9th Infantry Division) Veteran. Recognized as the 1987 FORSCOM Soldier of the Year, he entered service in Brevard County (FL) and currently resides in Cape Canaveral (FL). After 6 years of active duty, Smith worked in the Atlanta-based staffing industry and served as a Business Unit VP of HR. He later opened a consulting firm focused on assisting veterans transition into civilian careers.
Smith served as the head of the Military Affairs Council of the Cocoa Beach Regional Chamber of Commerce and has been a relentless advocate for his fellow veterans seeking jobs in entrepreneurship. He currently serves as the Florida Association of Veteran Owned Businesses (FAVOB) Space Coast's CEO and founding board member. FAVOB is the acknowledged voice for Florida’s veteran business owners. This organization seeks to establish Florida as the “state of choice” for veterans desiring to own and operate businesses.
Stu was also given the Outstanding Military Service Award by Brevard County, Florida, and was inducted into the Space Coast Public Service Hall of Fame in 2018. He also belongs to the American Legion, the Disabled American Veterans, and the Brevard County Veterans Center as a life member.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
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00:01:15.600 – 00:13:40.200: Smith starts out discussing how he enlisted in the military after finishing high school under the advice of his father. He talks about forging strong friendships and navigating his (later) marriage whilst on active duty. Moreover, he discusses his transition into teaching an advanced leadership course as a formal instructor in the military. From here, Smith talks about being honoured for his service and dealing with the tragic scars – physical and emotional – of his fellow veterans who fought against the Soviets. Towards the end of his military career as a Staff Sergeant, Smith decided to finish his baccalaureate education and pursue a career in business.
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00:14:31:140 – 00:21:06:000: Smith discusses beginning and rising in his professional career in the Atlanta-based staffing and HR industry. He also talks about doing so whilst building cases for veterans needing work assistance. Smith eventually ventures into discussing his work at the FAVOB, its expansion through Florida-based chapters, and how it has helped benefit veterans professionally throughout Florida.
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00:21:27:810 – 00:23:12:990: Smith finalizes the conversation by talking about the value of professional self-discovery. Specifically, he emphasizes that managing time, customer needs, goals, and expectations are perhaps the most challenging aspects of running a business. Overall, Smith states that there comes a time when performing one thing over another will allow you to add greater value – that it's time to locate someone else to complete that assignment once you've identified it.
Your Move
Show resources: Be an early adopter and evolve for your benefit! To change the world, you must first change yours: genemoran.com/make-your-move/
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e28.
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran/ or visit genemoran.com.
Connect with Stu Smith on his LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/stuartsmithcpf/ or visit his website at favob.net/.
SUMMARY
Dr. Moriah Thomas is a charismatic leader and Mental Health counselor with 8 years of combat experience in the Marine Corps. Specifically, Dr. Thomas served in 2 combat tours and has received praise for her leadership, professionalism, and dedication during her time in the Marine Corps. She has a background in EMDR therapy and charity work, as well as a Master’s, a B.S., and a PhD. in Industrial and Organizational Psychology. Moreover, she is certified in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. To become a board-certified coach, she is currently pursuing a Graduate Certificate in Evidence-Based Coaching.
In the last 6 months, Dr. Thomas has served as the Founder and CEO of Alpha Coaching and Consulting LLC. This is an organization dedicated to resolving the various problems with the current military-to-civilian transition system. Unlike other existing groups, this one-of-a-kind transition program assists military veterans who want to remain successful after making the transition to civilian life. Specifically, Alpha Coaching and Consulting helps them avoid the psychological pitfalls of our current system and adapt to their next stage of life. It accomplishes this by fusing the best tactics, theories, ideologies, and research out there.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
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00:00:28.110: – 00:11:36.120: Dr. Thomas discusses her combat experience in the U.S. Marine Corps after finishing 4 years of Junior ROTC in high school. She talks about becoming more involved in her academics and mental health counseling while on duty. Dr. Thomas also touches upon her marriage and journey to receiving her bachelor’s degree, Master’s Degree, and PhD.
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00:11:42.480: – 00:14:36.780: Dr. Thomas discusses the various jobs she has undertaken while pursuing her more advanced goals and degrees. She uses this to talk about finding balance and overcoming psychological pitfalls in her post-military life. Moreover, she touches upon the importance of recognizing and cherishing blessings in one’s life.
Your Move
Show resources: Be an early adopter and evolve for your benefit! To change the world, you must first change yours: genemoran.com/make-your-move/
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e27.
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran/ or visit genemoran.com.
Connect with Dr. Moriah Thomas on her LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/dr-moriah-thomas-2a032818/ or visit her company website at thealphacoachingandconsulting.com/
SUMMARY
A former veteran of the U.S. Navy, Kim Lott serves as the Supervisor of the Veterans’ Program at CareerSource Palm Beach County. CareerSource Palm Beach County is an equal opportunity program and veteran's preference employer that ensure auxiliary services are available upon request to disabled individuals. Kim's job consists of helping connect businesses in Palm Beach County, Florida, with U.S. military veteran talent. She aspires to continue using her and CareerSource's services to help veterans (current and retired) reach their professional goals and to allow businesses to find the qualified and dedicated workers they need for long-term success. Having graduated from Saint Leo University before serving as an Operations Specialist in the U.S. Navy for almost 10 years, Kim garnered the analytics and supervisory skills she needed before starting her job as a Career Consultant at CareerSource Florida back in 2019. Since then, Kim has flourished in helping the local veterans of the Palm Beach community seek career representation and equal opportunity for employment.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
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00:00:18.000: – 00:07:16.290: Kim starts by talking about her nine years in the U.S. Navy and how she earned her college degree. She also talked about balancing enlisting in the military with starting a family with her husband. From here, she starts talking about how she got into a career helping veterans find careers.
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00:07:45.270: – 00:15:36.360: Kim talks about moving into the role of a supervisor overseeing workstations. From here, she talks about her career evolution in the post-military period of her life. She also discusses her job and role in growing the Veterans Program at CareerSource Palm Beach County.
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00:15:45.480: – 00:20:08.940: Kim spends the last 5 minutes of the interview talking about her experience of raising a family with her husband while taking bachelor’s degree-level classes at St. Louis University. She emphasizes the concept of taking personal responsibility and moving forward with one’s life. She ties this directly to her career goal of helping veterans find freedom and choice in careers they love and qualify for.
Your Move
Show resources: Be an early adopter and evolve for your benefit! To change the world, you must first change yours: genemoran.com/make-your-move/
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e26.
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran/ or visit genemoran.com.
Connect with Kim Lott on her LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/kimlottforvetjobs/ or visit her company website at careersourcepbc.com/.
SUMMARY
As the CEO of Sanctum Federal, Kevin Mahoney has over 25 years of sales expertise in the federal market. A former graduate of Southern Illinois University and member of the U.S. Navy, Kevin has also been effective in starting up 7 federal sales practices. During his sales career, specifically, Kevin has generated millions of dollars using the methodology and processes he developed for building a product-based, federal sales practice. His success led to the creation of the Federal Sales Certification Training course and the launch of Sanctum Federal. Sanctum Federal is an organization whose mission is to provide federal sales professionals targeting the federal government with the unique knowledge, skills, and abilities they need to generate multi-million-dollar product sales.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
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00:00:08.280: – 00:10:42.390: Kevin discusses his experience with finishing his college education, joining the U.S. Navy, and developing his skills in programming and selling products within the federal market. Eventually, he transitions into talking about finding a career outside the naval forces as a technical manager. During this time, he continued to evolve with the Digital Revolution and grow his skills in both programming, engineering, entrepreneurship, and sales.
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00:10:45.180: – 00:19:09.240: Kevin talks about building his startup businesses and turning them into federal sales practices. He also uses this to touch upon key advice for using opportunity (or lack thereof) to make successful sales. Moreover, he talks about how one can promote themselves and their products by making connections. From here, Kevin transitions into discussing how he created the curriculum for Federal Sales Certification training for Sanctum Federal.
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00:19:22.350: – 00:23:28.140: Kevin talks about his goal of helping people coming out of the military access efficient federal and sales services, as well as the benefits of federal sales training. Most importantly, Kevin emphasizes the importance of balancing life and business, which is true for everyone, not just for veterans.
Your Move
Show resources:
Be an early adopter and evolve for your benefit! To change the world, you must first change yours: genemoran.com/make-your-move/
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e25.
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran/ or visit genemoran.com.
Connect with Kevin Mahoney on his LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/kevinfederal/ or visit his company website at sanctumfederal.com/.
SUMMARY
A former federal contracting officer and member of the U.S. Air Force, Christoph Mlinarchik has negotiated, reviewed, or handled government contracts worth billions of dollars. He has instructed more than a thousand students and professionals around the United States, consistently receiving excellent feedback for both his legal work and his published works. Both private-sector and public-sector workers have readily benefited from Christoph's excellent knowledge and engaging style, from beginners and journeymen all the way up to C-level executives of significant corporations. Additionally, Christoph has received recognition from the National Contract Management Association's "Top Professional Under 40" and "Best Article" awards (NCMA). Today, Christoph practices law as a qualified expert witness in government contracting and subcontracting in state and federal courts. He has worked in a variety of positions over the years, including DoD contracting officer, JAG acquisitions attorney, director of policy & acquisitions (GovCon) for a defense contractor, senior policy advisor (GovCon SME) for the government, professional instructor, and consultant and strategic advisor to numerous federal contractors, subcontractors, and other small businesses. He has also worked as a Memorial Gift-Giver with the Christian Appalachian Project, a non-profit organization whose mission is "building hope, transforming lives, and sharing Christ's love through service in Appalachia".
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
-
00:00:00:000: – 00:08:29:820: Christoph begins by discussing his time in the U.S. Air Force and his work as a contracting officer with various Defense agencies. He also emphasizes his career ties to the Department of Defense. From here, he begins to discuss his interests and eventual journey from federal jobs to the private and commercial sectors.
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00:08:29:820: – 00:20:25:650: Christoph discusses being recruited to be the Director of Government Contracts for a Defense contractor whilst also writing articles on the side about contracting and defense law. He also discusses his official transition from federal employee to entrepreneur (and eventual owner of Christoph LLC, a federal, witness, and contractual consultation business). Moreover, he discusses the personal and professional sacrifices he had to make and how being flexible served him well in the long run. He uses his personal experience as an extension of general advice one could give to any aspiring business owner or contractor.
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00:21:18.900: – 00:23:39.510: Christoph finishes the interview by discussing some of his personal hobbies, connections, and some of the works he’s written and published via Amazon. He also voices his support for charity work, specifically naming the Christian Appalachian Project as a great organization for helping the “backyard” of America.
Your Move
Show resources: Be an early adopter and evolve for your benefit! To change the world, you must first change yours: genemoran.com/make-your-move/
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e24.
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran/ or visit genemoran.com.
Connect with Christoph Mlinarchik on or visit his LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/christophllc/ or visit his work website at christophllc.com/. To learn more about the Christian Appalachian Project, visit christianapp.org/.
SUMMARY
An entrepreneur and public speaker, Tony Laucevicius is the CEO of the Veteran Education Network. He is also a member of the National Notary Association. Moreover, he is officially certified in Loan Signing and Remote Online Notaries. Having retired from the U.S. Navy, Tony is currently in his second career as a Loan Signing Agent. Tony helps veterans navigate the transition to civilian life through the dark tunnels of VA (Veterans Administration) benefits, health, cemetery, and the swamps of GI Bill rumors to the highest peaks of success through little known programs. Beyond that, Tony is well on his way to providing businesses and municipalities with sustainable decentralized wastewater purification systems that aim to put a dent in the water problem in SWFL (Southwest Florida) and beyond.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
-
00:00:38:280 – 00:07:50:010: Tony discusses the main trajectory of his career path. Specifically, he talks about joining the U.S. Navy and branching out into law enforcement and counterterrorism. From here, Tony transitions into talking about retiring from the Navy via a medical discharge and learning more about the VA (Veterans Administration).
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00:07:50:010– 00:14:03:240: Tony talks about his evolving academic and family life. He also discusses his transition into investigative work.
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00:14:05:000 – 00:22:23:240: Tony discusses the general upsides of advocating for oneself and transitioning into a post-military lifestyle. He also touches upon his own experience, as well as how his role and primarily goals in the VA have expanded.
Your Move
Show resources: Be an early adopter and evolve for your benefit! To change the world, you must first change yours: genemoran.com/make-your-move/
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e23.
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran/ or visit genemoran.com.
Connect with Tony Laucevicius on linkedin.com/in/tony-laucevicius/ or visit his Instagram at instagram.com/tonylaucevicius/.
SUMMARY
As the host of Make Your Move, Gene Moran uses this episode to discuss critical career and leadership-based advice for anyone – be they former military or not – seeking a career in the business world. Gene wants listeners to take this information and use it for their own expertise. After all, understanding the risks associated with being more relevant in the eyes of the public requires one to adjust themselves and grow as a person. With effective advice on networking, network diversification, writing tips, making investments, adding value, self-awareness, and taking risks to better oneself, anyone can start climbing that ladder to entrepreneurial success.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
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00:02:00:00 – 00:02:30:000: Gene discusses the importance of connecting with your Congressman and Congresswoman – the people who have a responsibility to look out for your interests as a constituent and a taxpayer.
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00:06:41:000 – 00:10:34:430: After discussing the value of becoming more knowledgeable and dressing more professionally, Gene touches upon the importance of attending relevant and informative seminars – both for personal application and growth. He uses this to lead into a discussion on how diversifying your network can help increase your own business traction.
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00:10:35:000 – 00:12:46:190: Gene stresses the importance of being financially responsible in a post-military career, especially in the risk of recession.
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00:12:50:000 – 00:20:30:010: Gene talks about the importance of manifesting leadership into multiple parts of one’s life. This includes learning to hold oneself accountable and to be strategic in one’s actions while heaving business dealings. He also discusses writing better and applying military skills to analyze and take risks to evolve as a person.
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00:20:50:000 – 00:25:00:000: Gene finishes his advice by emphasizing the importance of bringing value to anything you do – be it in business or in everyday life.
Your Move
Show resources: Be an early adopter and evolve for your benefit! To change the world, you must first change yours: genemoran.com/make-your-move/
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e22.
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran/ or visit genemoran.com.
SUMMARY VetCor, LLC, a restoration firm focusing on creating opportunities for veterans, is led by Paul Huszar, who is also the majority owner. Paul also developed Team VetCor, a company that allows veterans and their families to franchise VetCor and start their own business. Paul is also a certified Professional Engineer and a Certified Franchise Executive. He graduated from West Point with a degree in Civil Engineering and from the University of Washington with graduate certificates in Administration and Management, Global Trade, Transportation and Logistics, and an M.S.C.E.
Previously, Paul served as the Dean of the Army Engineer School, and served 23 years in the army, including four tours in Iraq. Today, he is an entrepreneur and businessman who helps veterans and people in general find more opportunities rather than be tied down.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
* 00:00:00:00 – 00:08:13:020: Paul briefly discusses his 23 years of active U.S. military service. He also talks about his work as a training supervisor and as an engineer operations officer. After this, Paul talks about his education and what inspired him to pursue civil engineering. This is his introduction to how VetCor got its start as a company and started implementing IT in its operations.
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00:09:17:820– 00:17:32:370: Paul discussed operational changes that occurred within VetCor and its career-based goals for the state of Florida.
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00:17:47:370– 00:24:21:540: After discussing the foundational goals of VetCor, Paul talks about transitioning to everyday life after active military service. He touches upon the importance of being skilled and applying knowledge of certain career industries to business ventures, networking, and franchising. The solid decision-making skills he learned in the military are a heavy inspiration behind his current perspective.
Your Move
**Show resources:** Be an early adopter and evolve for your benefit! To change the world, you must first change yours: genemoran.com/make-your-move/
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e21.
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran/ or visit genemoran.com.
Connect with Paul Huszar on linkedin.com/in/paulhuszar/ or visit his company’s website at https://vetcorservices.com/.
SUMMARY
Josh Elledge is a serial entrepreneur who founded UpMyInfluence (UMI) in 2014 to help entrepreneurs like him reach the right audience and grow their brands without the burden of having to deal with expenses associated with traditional PR firms. He is also regarded as one of the main authorities on internet authority and influence; he is a frequent speaker at business and startup conferences, has been on more than 100 podcasts, is a weekly consumer expert on Fox 35 Orlando and News 13, writes a syndicated column for nine newspapers (with a combined audience of over 1.1 million), and appears on more than 75 television stations around the country. Before doing so, Josh served in the U.S. Navy and graduated from Brigham Young University with a bachelor's degree in family science/therapy. His eventual startup breakthrough, UMI, was a natural outgrowth of his first startup, SavingsAngel.com; Josh launched the consumer savings platform in 2007. Thanks to his experience in information technology (IT) and Internet development, SavingsAngel.com grew rapidly, employing as many as 50 people and generating more than $6 million in sales despite spending less than $500 on advertising. Today, UMI has grown into a mission-driven platform dedicated to democratizing access to influencers, helping entrepreneurs share a collective vision with the world. Josh currently resides in Orlando with his wife and three children.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
* 00:00:00:00 – 00:13:13:000: Josh introduces himself and discusses his background (his education, his experience when serving in the Navy, what made him interested in broadcast journalism, etc.).
- 00:13:21:000– 00:22:05:000: Josh discusses his growth between the brief time he left active duty and the start of his first venture. He talks about his first startup (SavingsAngel.com) and how the company eventually grew into UpMyInfluence. An in-depth discussion of perspectives on a retired military career and how one must change with the world around them.
- 00:22:15:000– 00:25:10:000: Josh explains how serving the startup community has greatly inspired him throughout his years of professional work. He also discusses the dynamism of the network and the need to change with the opportunity for excessive growth. He concludes that everyone (be they former military or not) can embrace their expertise and do anything they set their minds to.
Your Move
**Show resources:** Be an early adopter and evolve for your benefit! To change the world, you must first change yours: genemoran.com/make-your-move/
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e20.
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran/ or visit genemoran.com.
Connect with Josh Elledge on linkedin.com/in/joshelledge/ or visit his company’s website at upmyinfluence.com/.
SUMMARY
Dr. Natacha Delince is the Founder and CEO of Lamercie Health Care. Lamercie is a health care firm dedicated to providing long-term care solutions to the elderly, their families and caregivers through home and community-based services. Dr. Delince served nearly eight years as a U.S. Army veteran and completed two tours in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. She earned her Nursing Assistant certification in 2008 and her Nursing Home Administrator license in 2012; today, she has a master's degree in healthcare administration and a doctorate in business administration. Having worked in both the public and private sectors, Dr. Delince now focuses her post-military energy in advocating for the elderly and for veterans in long-term Florida care institutions. She currently resides in the Tampa Bay area of Florida.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
- 00:00:00:00 – 00:11:29:550: Dr. Delince gives an intro into who she is (personally) and provides background information on her 8-year military career Natacha describes her 7-year experience in the U.S. military. Key details include raising her daughter and taking care of the elderly, both of which act as lead-ins into her motivation to start her health care company.
- 00:11:30:000– 00:14:58:530: Dr. Delince discusses her post-military education. Natacha promotes her book, Veterans Guide to Business Development. This discussion leads into her talking about the death of her mother and being in Assisted Living facilities and adult family care centres – how it all impacted her decision to start embracing entrepreneurship.
- 00:15:00:000 – 00:24:33:660: Dr. Delince discusses how she began her company Lamercie, the services the company provides, and the lessons (those regarding mental health, personal and professional evolution, being willing to get through tough life situations, etc.) that she hopes listeners of the podcast will take away.
Your Move
Show resources: Be an early adopter and evolve for your benefit! To change the world, you must first change yours: genemoran.com/make-your-move/
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e19.
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran/ or visit genemoran.com.
Connect with Dr. Dr. Delince on https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-natacha-delince-dba-5a52b9a6/ or visit her company’s website at https://lamerciehealthcare.com/.
SUMMARY
A U.S. Army Veteran, Cindy Gaddis founded CG Consults after a huge layoff; the purpose was to aid businesses that couldn't afford to hire a full-time employee. For 6 years, CG Consults functioned as a company with expertise in solving challenges for the GovCon market at affordable prices and successfully keeping over $1 billion in federal contracts. Today, Cindy serves as the Senior Vice President of Business Development at Advanced Technological Solutions (ATS), LLC. Currently, ATS supports the Department of Defense (DoD) by providing a full spectrum of IT services to support both civilian agencies along with military warfighters. Its expertise resides in the creation of analytics and solutions to harness the power of data. Having been motivated to help others, Cindy continues to be a strong supporter of data-based strategic planning. She has also collaborated with author Gloria Larkin on the Veteran’s Guide to Business Development, providing insight into how becoming a government contractor can serve as one of the greatest opportunities for money in this economy.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
- 00:03:37:540 – 00:09:51:860: Cindy describes her 7-year experience in the U.S. military, including the evolution of her education and her career. This acts as a lead-in to how Cindy obtained her first defense contractor job.
- 00:09:51:860– 00:10:21:10: Cindy promotes her book, Veteran’s Guide to Business Development.
- 00:10:21:210 – 00:11:38:320: Cindy discusses her work at ATS, as well her motivations and goals of helping businesses needing assistance prosper.
- 00:11:38:320– 00:19:33:316: Cindy describes her public speaking (topics, locations, live events, streams, etc.), as well as her motivations for and goals in doing so. This acts as a lead-in for her overarching concept of living having meaning.
CALL TO ACTION
Be an early adopter and evolve for your benefit! To change the world, you must first change yours: genemoran.com/make-your-move/
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e18.
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran/ or visit genemoran.com.
Connect with Cindy Gaddis on https://www.linkedin.com/in/cindylgaddis/ or visit her website at https://www.atsdelivered.com/about.
SUMMARY
Anna Wilds joined the Airforce just shy of her 29th birthday and entered the health services side. She then worked in Corporate America, went on to get an MBA, and became a franchise advisor for the last 19 years. Her breadth of experience and education can help you consider possibilities you haven’t yet considered as a possible second or third career.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
02:15: Anna describes her journey leading up to joining the military at age 28
04:43: Anna got into the Air Force in the business side of health services management area and had the opportunity to travel abroad
08:35: Anna advises that when transitioning from the military to first get a job, experience, and lay down some roots before moving to entrepreneurship
12:00: Anna’s decision to live close to her parents after leaving the military and pursue the entrepreneur route
14:19: Anna describes the transition process from a military career to non-military and applying for disability
18:20: Anna’s connections to several veterans’ groups
20:07: Anna provides free advice to those seeking to consider becoming a franchisee
23:20: What Anna loves about her post-military life
24:40: Gene’s business tip: No matter what line of business you’re in, you need to understand where the funding comes from that fund your contracts
If you need to quickly identify the health of your overall sale, from identification of a need through the requirements and business development process, I have a tool that can benefit you. Go to genemoran.com/free-offer and download The Shape of the Sale to assess the health of your overall operation and quickly identify the weak spots.
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e17
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran/ or visit genemoran.com.
Connect with Anna on linkedin.com/in/annawilds/.
SUMMARY
Mohawk Matt Denny, a former Marine, has had his picture on the side of a NASCAR race car. He shares very openly about his challenges coming out of the Marine Corp. and dealing with the invisible wounds that are part of service and how it’s affected all aspects of his life. With his wife, Lindy, they have created a new life for themselves, and they have the opportunity to travel extensively. They’re associated with Colin Garrett’s NASCAR team, which contributes back to veterans.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
03:04: Matt’s time in active duty and his transition into non-military life
14:39: How Matt’s medical challenges played a role in life changes
20:13: Transition assistants helped Matt find a new career path
32:46: Matt’s journey into NASCAR and his connection with Colin Garrett
40:05: Gene’s business tip: Figure out what you don’t know about the GI Bill and see how it can help you.
The Make Your Move podcast came as a result of the book Make Your Move: Charting Your Post-Military Career. Order your copy today. All proceeds go to Freedom Fighter Outdoors: genemoran.com/make-your-move/.
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e16
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran/ or visit genemoran.com.
Connect with Mohawk Matt on linkedin.com/in/mohawkmattdenny/ and Lindy linkedin.com/in/lindy-denny-64167b2a/.
SUMMARY
Bill McCabe is still serving in the military part-time and has a full-time job representing veterans’ rights and compensation in different ways in the Congressional and Capitol Hill environment.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
02:25: Bill is a fourth-generation military officer
03:10: Bill describes what called him to service in the military and his education
05:25: Organizations that Bill is involved in that gives back to veterans, specifically working with assistance dogs to help veterans with PTSD
07:45: Bill shares the mission of the Enlisted Association
09:40: Benefits of working with other organizations with similar causes
10:35: About K9s for Warriors and how Bill will be helping them
13:20: Advice if you’re considering working in veterans’ affairs and policy realm
15:05: How to find balance between working full-time and still commit time to meaningful volunteer activities
16:05: Gene’s business tip: Make the effort to connect yourself with organizations that you can help
Learn how things work in the federal space by joining The Big Top Forum. It’s a closed online space where professionals ask and answer questions, share good ideas, and access information that they might otherwise have to dig for in all topics that impact the federal selling environment. Go to:
https://www.genemoran.com/the-big-top-forum/
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e15
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran/ or visit genemoran.com.
Connect with Bill McCabe on linkedin.com/in/williammccabeiii/
K9s For Warriors: https://k9sforwarriors.org/
DOL Vets: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/vets
SUMMARY
Barry Duplantis is a former Major of the U.S. Army, Special Operations Forces. He served for a number of years before transitioning out of a military career and pursued more traditional business efforts. He was part of the hyper growth at Red Hat, a software company. Today he’s the head of North American sales for another software company called MatterMost. He also gives back to the veterans’ community through the Special Forces Charitable Trust and an organization called Yazda.org.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
02:30: Barry Duplantis shares his career spanning over 1980s to 2000s
03:30: Barry left the military life due to an injury and got into the high-tech industry
04:50: The reality of having to start at the bottom when embarking on a new career
05:30: How Barry started working for Red Hat and the importance of translating military skills into a post-military career
13:00: How Barry’s career led to Mattermost and how there are often changes in your career post-active duty
16:30: Non-standard volunteer activities that Barry is involved in, including Yazda.org which is repatriation of Yazidi women who were kidnapped by ISIS
20:38: Gene’s business tip: Don’t be afraid to tell your story about military service
You could be missing federal sales if you’re not tracking these 8 essential elements. Get your Shape of the Sale tool here: https://www.genemoran.com/free-offer/
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e14
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran/ or visit genemoran.com.
Connect with Barry on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barryduplantis/.
Yazda: https://www.yazda.org/
Special Forces Charitable Trust: https://www.specialforcescharitabletrust.org/
SUMMARY
Amy Entress and Joe Marino, both retired from the military, share their experiences in transitioning to a civilian career and the unique offerings and opportunities provided by Veterans Florida, a non-profit organization that provides career assistance to veterans.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
00:40: Gene introduces guests Amy Entress and Joe Marino of Veterans Florida.
03:13: Amy shares her experience in the navy for 10 years as a service warfare officer.
04:55: Joe shares his experience in the military and his transition into working for civilian companies.
07:49: Amy describes how she navigated her post-military career choice and the things that she considered.
10:55: Joe describes the steps that he took in navigating his post-military career.
13:00: Veterans Florida is a state-created, non-profit organization that provides career assistance to veterans, work force assistance to employers who want to hire veterans, and entrepreneur training for veterans that want to start or grow their business.
14:11: The kinds of activities that make Veterans Florida stand out from other non-profit organizations in other states.
15:50: How Veterans Florida has grown organically.
16:50: How the agriculture program has grown and their partnership with the Institute of Food and Agriculture Sciences of Florida University in training veterans.
20:50: Patterns in the pursuit of entrepreneurship.
22:10: The timeline people should have in mind when they’re making the transition from military to civilian career and when they should be reaching out to an organization like Veterans Florida.
24:00: Support that Veterans Florida offers to spouses.
25:00: Gene’s business tip: There are two different types of advisors. One is a retirement advisor; the other is an investment advisor. Invest for growth when you can, but also be prepared for downdrafts that can occur seemingly out of the blue. When you have the right team on your side, you’ll be better prepared to go through unexpected changes.
The Make Your Move podcast came as a result of the book Make Your Move: Charting Your Post-Military Career. Order your copy today. All proceeds go to Freedom Fighter Outdoors: https://www.genemoran.com/make-your-move/.
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e13
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran/ or visit genemoran.com.
Get the resources offered by Veterans Florida by visiting https://www.veteransflorida.org/.
SUMMARY
Vinnie and Sarah LaSorsa are the founders behind Freedom Fighter Outdoors. Freedom Fighter Outdoors is a charitable organization that provides unique outdoor experiences for veterans that are suffering from any visible or invisible combat injury. Events include offshore sports fishing and hunting events throughout the country.
**EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS**
- 01:19: Gene introduces Vinnie & Sarah LaSorsa and Freedom Fighter Outdoors
-
04:00: Vinnie shares the purpose of their non-profit organization Freedom Fighter Outdoors
- 05:35: The impact and influence of 9/11 on the start of the organization
- 09:10: The growth and evolution of Freedom Fighter Outdoors
- 13:35: Future plans of Freedom Fighter Outdoors
- 18:42: Connection of Jimmy Buffet’s Last Mango Boatworks with Freedom Fighter Outdoors
-
20:30: Proceeds of Gene’s book Make Your Book proceeds go to Freedom Fighter Outdoors
-
20:50: Gene’s Business Tip: Many people are attending tradeshows without a plan. You can get a lot more out of a tradeshow if you go in with a plan to help grow your business.
CALL TO ACTION
The Make Your Move podcast came as a result of the book Make Your Move: Charting Your Post-Military Career. All proceeds go to Freedom Fighter Outdoors. Order your copy today: https://www.genemoran.com/make-your-move/.
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e12.
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran/ or visit genemoran.com.
Learn more about Freedom Fighter Outdoors by visiting https://www.freedomfighteroutdoors.org/.
Learn more about the Last Mango by visiting: https://lastmangoboatworks.com
Follow them on social media:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreedomFighterOutdoors/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freedomfighteroutdoors/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCF3sp4bb0eqV7Y2wOpZzJNg/videos
Last Mango Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lastmangoboatworks/
Last Mango Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lastmangoboatworks/
SUMMARY
Gene Moran wraps up Season 1 of the Make Your Move podcast. In it, he discusses the journey of the podcast, the idea behind it, and the guests that have appeared. He also gives us a glimpse as to what to expect in Season 2 and, of course, his business tip of the week!
**EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS**
- 00:30: Gene discusses the journey of the podcast
-
01:21: Idea behind the podcast was to identify post-military career people who might be willing to tell their story
- 02:07: Common theme in talking with those who shared their story is that they’ve had experience after their military time
- 02:45: Gene describes his experience in the corporate world and then transitioning to working for himself
- 04:30: Why people in their post-military career start to feel unfulfilled around year two or three
- 04:49: Gene summarizes previous podcast guests’ stories
-
07:19: Podcast guests have a common desire to give back, and all have worked hard and broken through circumstances to build successful post-military careers
-
08:38: Season 2 guests all have a common interest in being part of something that specifically helps veterans in ways that are bigger than themselves
- 09:50: Gene shares his experience with this mentor, Alan Weiss
- 12:43: Gene’s business tip: Get your online digital identify in order because your prospects are making buying decisions based on what they observe of you online
CALL TO ACTION
If you need a quick way to identify the health of your overall sale, from identification of a need through the requirements and business development process, I have a tool that can benefit you. Go to genemoran.com/free-offer and download The Shape of the Sale to assess the health of your overall operation and quickly identify the weak spots.
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e11.
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran/ or visit genemoran.com.
SUMMARY John Zimmerman, retired Senior Master Sergeant U.S. Air Force, moved into the defense industry and is now the COO for Beast Code, a software company in Florida. John shares things he learned and limitations he’s had to work through that many of us can relate to, as we identify what we should be doing in post-military jobs and what will provide for fulfilment. John shares very openly about his philanthropy work in order to give back to those veterans who have given so much.
**EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS**
- 02:55: John details his active-duty experience and the different tours he served
-
04:33: Reasons why John left his military career
- 06:08: John describes the transitions in his career
- 08:50: The part that fear and apprehension plays when deciding to leave active duty
- 09:25 Unexpected upside of the transition experience
- 10:26: Over 50% of the people leaving the military undervalue themselves
-
11:10: John thought he had the world figured out when he left the military, but soon into his first new job, he realized how much more he had to learn
-
13:19: Fun things that John was able to do that led him into his present position
- 16:52: John paired up his two passions—military veterans and dogs—with a non-profit called Healing Paws for Warriors
- 19:33: John shares what he learned about not boxing yourself into a job and what to do instead
- 20:20: Gene’s business tip: Learn more about leadership. Our understanding of leadership in the military tends to be narrow and it’s not necessary in alignment with how the corporate or entrepreneurship world defines leadership.
CALL TO ACTION
The Make Your Move podcast came as a result of the book Make Your Move: Charting Your Post-Military Career. Order your copy today: https://www.genemoran.com/make-your-move/.
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e10.
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran/ or visit genemoran.com.
Connect with John Zimmerman on https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnzimmermann/.
SUMMARY
Former Lieutenant Commander Hugh Middleton was a U.S. Navy Seal. He is now Vice President of Operations and Development of Patriot Point. Hugh’s story is an inspiring example of focusing on philanthropy and how we can all give back to veterans in their post-military careers.
**EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS**
- 02:10: Listen in as Hugh describes his military career, including BUDS (Basic Underwater Demolition School) to become a Navy SEAL
-
03:52: Why Hugh transitioned out of active duty by 2005
- 05:19: Giving back to his country is what pulled Hugh toward different opportunities
- 06:37: Post-active duty transitions included director of international training, program manager for three different programs in Afghanistan, running a team of intelligence analysts, and co-founder of Kopis Mobile
- 08:55: Opportunities that found Hugh and opportunities that Hugh found
- 10:13: Degree of ambiguity to work through, but familiarity of personal and professional network helped solidify opportunities multiple times after leaving active duty
-
11:25: Kopis Mobile is a software engineering firm with a broad selection of services
-
12:00: How Hugh’s experience as a SEAL helped him transition into Kopis Mobile
- 15:10: The specialness of Patriot Point and how Hugh came to be involved
- 19:42: Hugh’s advice on working on full-time jobs and spreading yourself too thin
- 20:54: It’s okay to say no sometimes so that you can provide the best you to whatever you’re committing yourself to
-
21:34: Hugh’s advice on transitioning from the post-military life
-
22:54: Don’t be afraid to fail because it can be a learning and growth opportunity
- 23:52: Gene’s business tip: Figure out who your U.S. representative is because they represent about 750,000 voters. Connect with them because they are responsible to look out for your interests. As it relates to your business, they can make introductions, but they need to know about you and your company. Reach out to them and get to know them.
CALL TO ACTION
If you’re interested in learning from others with respect to federal acquisition, budgeting, funding, or if you’re working for a defense company in particular, you can benefit from The Big Top. It’s a place where like-minded professionals come together and share non-competitive information that is of mutual value. You can ask questions, get direct access to Gene, and learn from others so that you don’t have to learn through the School of Hard Knocks. Go to genemoran.com/thebigtop.biz.
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e9.
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran/ or visit genemoran.com.
Connect with Hugh Middleton on linkedin.com/in/hughmiddleton/.
SUMMARY
Landed jets on an aircraft carrier, attended a world class business school, landed a job at one of the biggest brands in technology in Silicon Valley, become an entrepreneur and highly successful executive coach, wrote a screenplay, and performed off-Broadway. Today we’ll learn how Loree Draude pieced all these intricate parts together to develop a wildly successful post-military career. Loree exemplifies how staying attune to opportunities and aligning your skills can lead you to unexpected fulfilment and success.
**EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS**
- 2:20: Listen in as Loree describes her military career
-
4:39: Loree’s decision to leave the military and become a civilian
- 5:25: Loree decides not to get into the airline industry, but instead to lead teams
- 7:15: Loree’s experience in business school
- 9:52: Loree’s first job post-business school and moving to Silicone Valley
- 13:38: Significant learning experience about how we often underestimate our value
- 17:00: Loree’s journey from leaving Google to starting her own consulting and coaching company to writing a screenplay and performing live in N.Y. City
- 21:57: If Loree had one do-over, she would like to have had more faith in herself in 1999
- 23:19: Gene’s business tip: How risk averse are you? How open to new thinking are you? Challenge your thinking to stimulate creative thinking.
CALL TO ACTION
Quickly identify your strengths and weaknesses in the federal sales process. Go to genemoran.com/federalsales and download your copy of Shape of the Sale tool.
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e8
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran/ or visit genemoran.com.
Connect with Loree Draude on linkedin.com/in/loreedraude-leadershipandteambuilding/.
SUMMARY
Dave Harden is a retired Air Force Colonel. He completed 26 years on reserve and active duty and since then has been in numerous influential roles and businesses as a leader. Today he is the CEO and founder of The Outpost, a company that helps technology companies win government contracts and connect them with commercial opportunities. In this episode, he talks about removing fear to ask for help so you accelerate your success.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
* 02:15: Dave describes his varied military career and reserve life.
- 04:49: Feeling like he could make a bigger impact outside military life than inside and the decisions that led to his post-military career.
- 06:25: Dave gives advice on how to handle interests you have while still in a military career.
- 08:54: How to handle ambiguity that comes after making a decision to leave military life.
-
12:09: Having a growth mindset requires vulnerability that military personnel need to embrace in order to succeed in a non-military career.
- 13:50: Living a “Do good. Make money.” life.
- 15:24: Two questions that can help you have a successful career.
- 15:50: Dave’s advice on steps to take as you consider and prepare for a post-military career.
- 18:50: Importance of taking time to take care of yourself and managing expectations with your family as situations change.
- 21:33: Gene’s business tip: Two-fold: 1. Invest in a professional to help you with your financial investments; and 2. Stop doing your own taxes.
CALL TO ACTION
If you’ve been listening Make Your Move podcast, but haven’t read the book, you’re missing out on half the story. The book is intended to share my experience from transitioning from military life to corporate life that anybody can adapt to their own situation. Go to genemoran.com/make-your-move.
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e7
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran/ or visit genemoran.com.
Connect with Dave Harden on linkedin.com/in/davebharden/.
SUMMARY
Ted Fordyce is retired U.S. Air Force Colonel, where he served for 28 years. His career began at The Citadel and today he runs the Washington Operations at Elbit Systems of America. Ted shares the importance of mentorship and recognizing the value you bring to a corporate career because of your experience in the military.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
02:00: Ted describes what he did on active duty as a Colonel in the U.S. Air Force.
02:57: Events that were occurring the lead to Ted’s departure from active duty into the corporate world.
04:50: Key mentors that guided Ted through his retirement from active duty.
09:15: Importance of having a plan when you’re transitioning out of military duty.
10:10: Working in military might expose you to a global network, but not a diverse global network outside of military.
11:20: Ted’s transition over the last 6 years since leaving military life in 2015.
15:50: Biggest surprise in post-military life.
17:25: Ted’s thoughts on work-life balance.
19:40: Golden nugget of counsel to those on the cusp of their transition from military life.
21:33: Gene’s business tip: Amp up your wardrobe. Times and tastes have changed in a business wardrobe.
Quickly identify your strengths and weaknesses in the federal sales process. Go to genemoran.com/federalsales and download your copy of Shape of the Sale tool.
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e6
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran/ or visit genemoran.com.
Connect with Ted on linkedin.com/in/tedfordyce/.
SUMMARY
Don Young, retired Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy, shares two actions he took that were essential to his career success.
Don spent a significant amount of his career coming up through the enlisted ranks before transitioning to officer ranks. After his time in the Navy, he went to work for Caterpillar and then ventured out on his own to form his own company, C5MI, where he helps companies work through manufacturing challenges by leveraging technology.
**EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS**
- 00:32 Meet Don Young, retired Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy.
- 02:22 Don describes his military service.
- 05:00 Taking advantage of the opportunities in the service.
-
05:50 Transitioning to the corporate world and setting goals.
- 10:03 Significant lessons learned from crossing over from active duty to the corporate position.
- 12:25 Leveraging collateral opportunities to advance your career.
- 13:20 Transitioning from corporate to starting his own business in the IT space.
- 14:17 Advice when maneuvring through post-military career.
-
15:26 Charitable organizations that Don supports and why giving back is important to him.
-
18:36 Gene’s business tip: Amp up your reading; otherwise, you are missing opportunities to grow and enhance your business and customer conversations. Don’t assume that your military experience equipped you with the business tools you need.
Quickly identify your strengths and weaknesses in the federal sales process. Go to genemoran.com/federalsales and download your copy of Shape of the Sale tool.
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e5
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran or visit genemoran.com.
Connect with Don on linkedin.com/in/donyoung1/.
Retired Rear Admiral Sinclair Harris moved into a successful post-military career with Washington based LMI after leaving the US Navy, but the transition wasn’t always smooth.
Summary
Navy veteran Sinclair ‘’Sinc’’ Harris enjoyed a long and successful military career before accepting a corporate role. If you’re thinking of a post-military career, discover two vital lessons you’ll need as you make your transition.
Episode Highlights:
00:00 Introduction to Sinc Harris, recognizing your blessings.
02:11 Beginning the transition process; knowing when it’s time to move on.
06:57 ‘’Find your forty’’ to secure the right job.
09:47 Two vital lessons learned in making the transition.
13:48 Learning to control the ego.
15:10 Two key upsides in post-military life.
16:58 Recommended resources.
18:47 Essential advice on accepting voluntary roles.
24:09 Doing one thing differently in the transition period.
25:10 Gene’s Business Tip: Learn how to formulate your value proposition – and why.
Transitioning out of military service? Discover how to transition into a career that fulfils you: genemoran.com/makeyourmove.
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e4.
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran or visit genemoran.com.
Retired Lieutenant Colonel Rico Vaca defines what it means to transition out of a military career in an intentional way.
Summary
In 2022, Rico Vaca celebrates the tenth year of his consultancy, serving defense executives and aerospace clients. In this episode, he shares the lessons learned since his transition, with vital insights for veterans considering their post-military options.
Episode Highlights:
00:00 Introduction to Rico Vaca and his military career. 01:29 A move to Congress; a different type of transition.
06:27 Being vulnerable helped to build a network
11:18 Figuring out your value proposition.
12:58 The move into entrepreneurship, launching a consultancy.
13:58 Opening a restaurant and the impact of the pandemic.
17:34 Challenges and opportunities of post-military life.
19:21 The one mistake that can affect your business success.
23:49 A critical piece of advice for an Academy Cadet.
23:03 Gene’s Business Tip: Write a professional article to transform your business success.
Learn how to secure federal funding worth millions of dollars. Order Pitching The Big Top today.
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e3.
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran or visit genemoran.com.
Connect with Rico on linkedin.com/in/santiagovaca/
Successful life changes often depend on making the right decision at the right time. One of only a few women to command a navy warship, retired US Navy Captain Alysa Ambrose chose to transition out while her career was on the ascent.
Summary
After a successful military career, trailblazer Alysa is now in law school. In this episode she explains the reasons behind that decision, the challenges of achieving a balance, and adapting to the reality of life as a veteran.
Episode Highlights:
00:00 Introduction to Alysa and the personal shifts behind the transition.
03:13 Becoming one of the first women to command a navy warship.
04:24 Post-Navy career options; making a decision.
06:06 Learning to cope with post-military life in a global pandemic.
08:54 Going back to school to pursue a childhood dream.
11:02 Alysa’s top learning point for all veterans.
13:34 How to achieve a balance between family and a new career.
15:37 Gene’s Business Tip: Attend a seminar – why you need to invest in your future.
Don’t miss out on federal sales opportunities. Download Gene’s Shape of the Sale bonus tool now.
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e2.
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran or visit genemoran.com.
Connect with Alysa on linkedin.com/in/alysa-ambrose/
Making the transition from a military career is often a challenge for veterans, but it can also be a period of rapid transformation and entrepreneurial success.
Summary
After 12 years in the US Air Force, Major Rob Slaughter made a successful transition from a military career to enjoy outstanding business success. Rob is co-founder of Defense Unicorns, a software specialist company, on track to achieve a seven figure turnover in its first year.
Episode Highlights:
00:00 Introduction to Rob Slaughter, co-founder of Defense Unicorns.
02:03 The motivation to chart a new course after 12 years of active duty.
05:53 Overcoming barriers to transition by learning to adapt.
10:42 From Defense Unicorns co-founder to hiring 20+ employees within months.
13:04 The biggest obstacle experienced as a start-up involved with federal sales.
15:48 Taking control of life and daily schedules.
17:15 The daily habit for veterans adjusting to post-military life.
17:50 Gene’s Business Tip: 3 strategies to diversify your network
Learn strategies and insights to navigate your path through your transition with Gene’s book Make Your Move: Charting Your Post-Military Career.
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e1.
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran or visit genemoran.com.
Connect with Rob on linkedin.com/in/robertcslaughter/
Website: https://defenseunicorns.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robcslaughter/
Make Your Move is the podcast for veterans that proves your career transition can be more than you ever imagined.
**Trailer Highlights:**
00:00 Introduction, Gene’s 24 years of active service.
01:44 Military experience can’t be replicated in the corporate world.
02:27 From corporate job to seven figure consulting and advisory practice.
03:31 Proceeds from Gene’s book go to supporting veterans.
04:18 What to expect from future podcast episodes.
05:55 Acknowledge shortcomings, take opportunities, invest in yourself.
06:54 Veterans must learn to speak the language of business.
07:27 This podcast is Gene’s ‘’give back’’ project.
Read the book that supports this podcast. Make Your Move: Charting Your Post-Military Career. 100% of the profits go to Freedom Fighter Outdoors.
Get all the resources from this episode on genemoran.com/e0
Connect with Gene on linkedin.com/in/genemoran or visit genemoran.com.