Military Bottom Line Jason Burds

Two months ago, I took the leap and bought a business. Here are the first four things I’ve learned that no one tells you about being your own boss:

- Being Your Own Boss Isn’t Total Freedom
While it’s great to be in charge, it doesn’t mean you can do whatever you want. Unlike before, I can’t completely detach even on vacations.

- The Challenge of Too Little Work
Stressing over too little work is a new experience. As an employee, slow periods didn’t bother me. Now, the financial pressure is real, and I’d rather be too busy than not busy enough.

- Mindset Shift as an Owner
Ownership changes your perspective. Productivity, profitability, and resources become your primary focus. It’s a good shift but beware of becoming a micromanager.

- Work Becomes More Enjoyable
There’s a unique thrill in knowing your hard work directly impacts your success. It’s more fun and exciting to “eat what you kill,” but it requires a different way of thinking.


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I used VR&E to get a master's degree, but that's not how I started...At first I thought I was going to use it for an accelerated BSN. But right before starting, I switched over to completing my MS in Project Management. We don't all go in straight lines...I was surprised at the work required to apply for and be approved for VR&E. Here is what I learned.

VR&E Application Assignment includes:
Career Exploration Guide:
- Find 10-15 job postings for the career you are pursuing in your area that required the degree you want
- Include school curriculum for the program you want to do
- Discuss your disability restrictions for said career path and how your injuries relate to your current role vs desired role
- Discuss job postings and if you’re willing to move, need anything extra etc.
- Answer several questions about your current role, desired role and VA ratings
- Research 2-3 schools with a program that you could attend to complete goal
- WRITE a career proposal about your research and why you want to pursue said job

This isn't as straightforward as applying to use the GI Bill. Good luck!


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In this episode of, we delve into the gripping journey of David Hopkins, a former Marine Corps Infantryman who enlisted on a five-year contract to escape his turbulent past. On a kinetic Afghanistan deployment with 3rd Battalion 5th Marines, David faced the horrors of combat just three weeks into his deployment when he stepped on an IED.

But David's story doesn't end on the battlefield. Despite his intense experiences, he refused to let his dreams crumble in the dust. Through sheer determination and the support of programs like the GI Bill, VR&E, and VA Disability, David embarked on a grueling eight-year mission to carve out a new path for himself.

Tune in as David shares his remarkable journey from the frontlines of war to the halls of academia, where he pursued a degree in Mechanical Engineering against all odds. His story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the unwavering resolve to persevere, no matter the obstacles.

David shared the following video taken during Afghanistan deployment:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wObO3xb_OdQ


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Joseph Malone is a former Marine Special Operations Command (MARSOC) Marine with seven total deployments who's now on a mission as a personal safety consultant. Join us as we delve into Joseph's journey in and out of the military TWICE, what made him try out for MARSOC and what ultimately helped him put the pieces of his life back together after transition. Joe now operates his own business teaching others how to protect themselves and the ones they love. Discover the essence of the "Lethality Lifestyle" as Joe advocates, for self-defense skills, positive mindset, and discipline for collective empowerment and peace.

Connect with Joe:
https://www.instagram.com/joseph_malone_official/

Joe Malone Training:
https://joemalonetraining.com/

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Bill spent 8 years in the Army Infantry. After a disabling injury Bill opened his own security company and retail store selling military and survival products in Alaska. It was during this time that he began working with the FBI and other law enforcement agencies initially in undercover operations and later as an analyst specializing in counter domestic terrorism. Bill was also involved in the getting the Veteran Small Business Enhancement Act passed to allow certified veteran owned businesses to benefit from government surplus equipment. Bill currently spends his time on a small holistic, sustainable farm in New England with his wife and two children. 



Connect with Bill: https://www.instagram.com/dzbillfulton/?hl=en

Bill's book "The Blood of Patriots"


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Trying to recreate the momentum I had. No editing, just action. Hope you all are well.


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