ASVAB Domination Podcast with Gamonal Tutors

Mickey Gamonal
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The ASVAB Domination podcast is designed for anyone desiring motivation, direction, and focus in reaching their ASVAB goals. Host Mickey Gamonal has helped dozens of students raise their GT and ST scores to get better jobs, bonuses, and contracts across all branches of the military. In this podcast, Mickey blends classical teaching with real world military experience to deliver explanations on making the most of your military career. If you’re ready to take your scores to the next level, or you just need extra inspiration or motivation, tune in to The ASVAB Domination Podcast. Follow Mickey on Instagram @mickey.gamonal https://www.instagram.com/mickey.gamonal/

  1. 6D AGO

    Episode #49: What Recruiters Wish You Knew About the ASVAB

    Guest: Nick Pogam Guest Project: Path to Serve Topic: ASVAB realities, ethical recruiting, and career paths beyond the first contract Episode Overview In this episode, Mickey sits down with Nick Pogam, Army veteran, former recruiter, and founder of Path to Serve, joining the conversation from Belgium. Nick shares his journey from an uncertain civilian teenager to infantry soldier, recruiter in Pennsylvania, and eventually a role supporting NATO overseas. Nick pulls back the curtain on military recruitment—what works, what doesn’t, and why education matters more than pressure. From taking a practice ASVAB for cash at the mall to helping recruits navigate waivers, LASIK, and long-term career planning, this episode highlights the human side of enlistment and the responsibility recruiters have to do it right. The conversation also explores how young recruits often underestimate the impact of their decisions, why rapport beats sales tactics, and how platforms like Path to Serve aim to give future service members clearer information before they sign on the dotted line. Key Topics Covered Nick’s ASVAB journey: scoring a 37 → 57 and choosing infantry The reality of recruiting high school students Ethical recruiting vs. quota-driven recruiting Lessons learned recruiting in Amish country (Lancaster, PA) How social media and community-building support enlistment Helping recruits overcome barriers like vision requirements and waivers Why education and transparency matter in military contracts Career evolution: infantry → platoon sergeant → NATO assignment Building Path to Serve as a trusted enlistment resource Notable Takeaways The ASVAB is often underestimated—but it shapes career options for decades Rapport and trust outperform pressure tactics in recruiting Many recruits don’t realize how binding military contracts truly are With mentorship and persistence, waivers and setbacks aren’t the end Long-term military careers rarely look like the original plan Who This Episode Is For Students and parents navigating ASVAB and enlistment decisions Recruiters who want to recruit ethically and effectively Service members considering reenlistment or career changes Veterans interested in education-focused military advocacy Path to Serve

  2. FEB 9

    Episode 48: Denied the Nuke Program: A Navy Veteran’s ASVAB Reality

    🎙️ ASVAB Domination Podcast — Episode Show Notes Guest: Cindy Palmer Podcast: ASVAB Domination Podcast Topic: ASVAB lessons, Navy service, and building a veteran-focused entrepreneurship platform Episode Overview In this episode, Mickey sits down with Cindy Palmer, Navy veteran and host of the Veterans of Business (VOB) podcast. Cindy shares her personal ASVAB journey, her unexpected path in the Navy, and how those experiences shaped her mission to support veteran entrepreneurs. From nearly entering the Navy’s Nuclear program to pivoting into administrative and pay roles, Cindy’s story highlights how ASVAB scores, eligibility rules, and flexibility can shape a military career in surprising ways. The conversation also dives deep into entrepreneurship after service—what veterans struggle with, how to build confidence, and why telling real, messy stories matters. This episode bridges military enlistment, adult education, and veteran entrepreneurship, making it especially relevant for service members, parents of future recruits, and veterans considering business ownership. Key Topics Covered Cindy’s ASVAB experience and Navy enlistment journey Why she couldn’t enter the Nuke program despite qualifying scores The importance of having a backup plan in the military How adult learners can rebuild study habits and academic confidence Common challenges veterans face when transitioning to entrepreneurship The mission and future rebrand of the Veterans of Business (VOB) podcast Why sharing the “messy middle” of business matters How ASVAB prep and tutoring support long-term career outcomes Notable Takeaways An ASVAB score doesn’t just determine eligibility—it can redirect your entire career path Adult learners benefit massively from structure, tutoring, and pattern recognition Veterans often struggle not with skill, but with confidence and visibility in business Entrepreneurship is a transition just like the military—and it deserves support systems Who This Episode Is For Future service members preparing for the ASVAB Veterans navigating life after the military Parents supporting teens through enlistment decisions Veteran entrepreneurs or those considering starting a business VOB Podcast - Cindy Palmer

  3. JAN 31

    Episode 47: How to Dominate the ASVAB in 2026

    In this episode of the ASVAB Domination Podcast, Michael Gamonal breaks down exactly what it will take to crush the ASVAB in 2026—no fluff, no outdated advice. You’ll learn: What actually matters on the ASVAB (and what doesn’t) The biggest mistakes students make when studying How to raise your AFQT and unlock better jobs, bonuses, and contracts A simple, realistic study approach for busy, military-bound students Whether you’re testing for the first time, retesting, or helping someone you care about prepare, this episode gives you a clear game plan to dominate. Key Topics Covered: AFQT vs line scores (and why AFQT comes first) Why “studying everything” is a losing strategy The core sections that move your score fastest How recruiters actually look at ASVAB scores Study habits that work even with a full schedule Resources Mentioned: 📝 Free ASVAB Domination Checklisthttps://freechecklist.asvabdomination.com 📘 ASVAB Domination Workbook (Amazon)https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F9Z4GJGB 🌐 Courses & tutoringhttps://gamonaltutors.com 🎧 More episodesASVAB Domination Podcast (Spotify) Call to Action:If this episode helped you, share it with someone who’s military-bound and leave a review—it helps more students find the show.   How to Dominate the ASVAB in 2026(1)

  4. JAN 14

    Episode #46: Your Last ASVAB Score Counts — David Soberal’s ASVAB Plot Twist

    In this episode of the ASVAB Domination Podcast, Mickey sits down with former Marine Corporal David Soberal (USMC 2000–2005) to talk about what happens when your life plan completely falls apart—starting with an ASVAB score that cost him his reenlistment. David shares how volunteering in school unexpectedly sent him to Japan, how 9/11 changed his tour overnight, and how a “just for fun” ASVAB retake years later quietly shut the door on his admin career. That closed door eventually led him to restaurant management, airport operations, LinkedIn “Standouts,” and—most importantly—meeting his wife. If you’ve ever felt like a low ASVAB score or a failed plan is the end of the world, this episode is for you. In this episode, you’ll hear: Soberal Podcast - FinalHow a single “I need a volunteer” moment sent David to Japan instead of just pushing a broom What it was like to be stationed in Japan when 9/11 happened and then get told, “Pack your bags, you’re going to Kuwait” The reality of life in Kuwait: sandstorms, camel spiders, scorpions, gas masks, and Air Force-level amenities How David’s admin job (pay, awards, travel claims) quietly kept Marines’ lives moving behind the scenes The ASVAB twist: why a careless retake in a basement class lowered his score and later blocked his reenlistment How repeated retakes kept dropping his score, and the emotional weight of choosing between going grunt or getting out Why that “failure” set up the rest of his life: restaurant leadership, airport ops, Lyft, gig work, and meeting his wife David’s message to current service members: your last ASVAB score counts—and your life isn’t over if a test doesn’t go your way How David now uses LinkedIn Standouts to spotlight other professionals and give them a platform Key takeaways for ASVAB students: Your ASVAB score matters—but it does not define your worth or your future Don’t treat prep like a joke if you’re going to rely on that score later (especially for reenlistment) Even when the military says “no,” life can still be saying “yes” in a different direction The story you tell yourself about your score is more powerful than the number itself Connect with David:🔗 LinkedIn: Search “David Soberal” on LinkedIn (Marine Corps veteran & LinkedIn Standouts creator) https://asvabdomination.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Soberal-Podcast-Final.wav More ASVAB help from Michael:🎧 ASVAB Domination Podcast playlist📘 ASVAB Domination Workbook & courses at Gamonaltutors.com📲 Daily tips on TikTok, IG, and YouTube: @gamonaltutors / @mickey.gamonal

  5. JAN 10

    Episode #45: From MP to Commander: ROTC, Deployment, and Owning Your Career Path

    In this episode, Mickey sits down with CPT Taylor Scroggins—company commander (Bravo 1108) and member of the Integrated Primary Prevention Workforce (IPPW). They talk ASVAB origin stories, choosing an MOS with intention, what ROTC and Advanced Camp really look like, and how being proactive (instead of reactive) can change everything—from range safety to career progression to unit readiness. What you’ll hear in this episode A range-day story that shows what “real leadership” looks like when safety standards matter CPT Scroggins’ ASVAB experience: scoring a 61, not studying, and getting recruited straight out of JROTC How she chose 31B (Military Police): “Show me the full list of jobs I qualify for” MP training realities (yes—spray and taser) and what Guard-life as an MP actually felt like ROTC explained: SMP (Simultaneous Membership Program), skipping early years, and the real cadence of classes + labs Advanced Camp at Fort Knox: what happens, what people struggle with, and how ROTC programs can set cadets up to fail Commissioning traditions (first salute) and why her grandfather was an unforgettable part of her story Leadership fast-track: going straight to XO because of officer shortages—and doing the work even when it’s “unrated” Being sent to an FSC (Forward Support Company) and still getting stuck as “acting XO” Deployment to Germany supporting the mission training Ukrainians (CPT Scroggins in SPO / logistics support) The career “binder” strategy: KD positions, broadening assignments, promotion points, and having a plan A wild moment: getting offered a TAC job… and walking out as the new S4 instead MDMP under pressure: solving a real statewide readiness problem with a tiny, brand-new staff IPPW explained: using D-IoX survey data to identify risk/protective factors and intervene before issues escalate Why intentionality keeps showing up in her story—from MOS selection to command Key takeaways Don’t let someone else pick your career for you—start with the full list, then decide. The earlier you get intentional, the more leverage you have with opportunities later. Great leaders keep standards (like safety) even when it’s inconvenient. Prevention work matters: improving climate and connectedness can reduce risks before they become incidents. Resources mentioned ASVAB Domination Podcast ROTC / SMP (Simultaneous Membership Program) MDMP (Military Decision Making Process) Operational Readiness (OR rate) concepts D-IoX survey and IPPW (Integrated Primary Prevention Workforce) Guest contact (as shared in the episode)CPT Taylor Scroggins (IPPW, Mississippi)Desk phone: (601) 313-6608 Connect / next stepIf you’re ASVAB-bound and want to pick the best job you qualify for (not just “whatever’s available”), follow the show and share this episode with a friend who’s considering enlisting or commissioning. ASVABdomination.com Gamonaltutors.com https://asvabdomination.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Gamonal-Tutors-Podcast-Scroggins.wav

  6. 10/10/2025

    Episode #44: ASVAB Study Plans, Timing Tricks, and Real-World Confidence — with Master Tutor Kristen Titus

    High-school teacher and master tutor Kristen Titus joins Mickey to break down how to study smart for the ASVAB (and why a clear plan beats raw talent). We cover practical timing strategies for every AFQT section, how structure and mentorship change trajectories, and Kristen’s proven approach that’s lifted students to scholarship-winning SAT scores. She also shares the mom perspective—what it felt like watching her son choose service and thrive. What you’ll learn: Why your study plan (goal score → aligned habits) matters more than “being good at tests.” Timing targets that keep you moving: General Science: 10 min / 16 Q (~30s per Q) Arithmetic Reasoning: 36 min / 16 Q (~2+ min per Q; don’t get stuck) Math Knowledge: 24 min / 16 Q (~1.5 min per Q) Word Knowledge: 11 min / 16 Q (~45s per Q) Paragraph Comp: 13 min / 11 Q (~1 min per Q) How to flag, skip, and return (aka “feel the push”) so you maximize correct answers. Simple review tools (e.g., Quizlet vocab sets and gamified practice) that actually stick. Parallels between ASVAB and SAT prep—and the confidence & opportunities that follow. Chapters: 0:00 Intro & why this conversation matters 2:00 Kristen’s background: teacher, test coordinator, tutor 7:15 Direction, structure, and the military path 12:40 Creating a personal ASVAB study plan 18:10 Timing strategies by section 24:30 Review tools & building your weekly rhythm 29:00 SAT insights, Desmos, and scholarship gains 36:00 Confidence, agency, and life trajectories 41:00 How to reach Kristen + Mickey’s bootcamp invite Guest: Kristen Titus — ASVAB/SAT Tutor & longtime educator Contact: KristenTitus1992@gmail.com Mentioned/Tools: Quizlet (for vocab decks & spaced review) Desmos (calculator skills for SAT; mindset carries over to ASVAB timing/strategy) Work with Mickey (ASVAB Domination): 6-Week AFQT Bootcamp — Money-Back Guarantee Requirements to qualify: attend all sessions, complete homework/practice tests, post weekly scores & study notes. Limited seats (first 15 students). Enroll: PayPal → https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/KNYLT5A7JTN5N DM @ ASVAB Domination for Mini Quiz Monday (free weekly live practice). Connect: Host: Mickey Gamonal | Gamonal Tutors — ASVAB Domination Questions? Collab? Email: Michael@GamonalTutors.com (or DM on socials) If you enjoyed this episode:Share it with a future soldier, recruiter, or parent—and drop a 5★ rating to help others find it. https://asvabdomination.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/TitusFinal.wav

  7. 08/19/2025

    Episode #43: 🎙️ ASVAB Domination Podcast – Episode: Peace Corps, Purpose & Playing Offense

    Guest: Sean Lundy – Army Officer, Returned Peace Corps Volunteer (RPCV), and mentorHost: Mickey Gamonal (@GamonalTutors) 🎧 Episode Summary: In this thought-provoking Part 2 with Sean Lundy, we explore the powerful overlap between service in the Peace Corps and the U.S. military. Sean reflects on returning home after Peace Corps, navigating reverse culture shock, building community, and why service-minded individuals make great leaders — and even better founders. From doing ACFT makeups on his birthday to building a venture firm that backs RPCV entrepreneurs, Sean brings depth, humor, and hard-earned insight. This episode dives into the “why” behind service, the power of mentorship, and why embracing your insignificance might be the key to lasting impact. 🧠 Topics We Cover: 🎂 Taking the ACFT on your birthday & the new standards 💍 Why service stories always resurface — even at weddings 💡 The shared hardship of Peace Corps & the military 🧳 Reverse culture shock and “aftershock” after service 🪖 The psychological resilience Peace Corps instills 🔍 The origin of RPCV Ventures — and what it supports 🧗 Why Peace Corps volunteers make scrappy founders 📞 Cold calls, unlikely mentors, and building connections 🧭 Finding purpose and living with intentionality ⚔️ How to lead — even if you’re not “in charge” 🔥 Quote Highlights: “You don’t operate like you’ve got something to lose. That’s where real progress begins.”“We’re not special. That’s why we’re free to do anything.”“If you can succeed with nothing — no money, no language skills, no blueprint — you can build anything.” 📢 Mentioned Resources: RPCV Ventures – Investing in founders who’ve served Sean Lundy on LinkedIn – Reach out for mentorship GamonalTutors.com – Crush the ASVAB with expert prep 💥 Action Steps: 🌐 Know a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer or veteran starting a business? Connect them to RPCV Ventures. 🤝 Need a mentor or guidance post-service? Find someone interesting, and just ask. 🎯 Want to turn service into purpose? Start living intentionally — today. https://asvabdomination.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Lundy2.wav

  8. 07/23/2025

    Episode #42: The Power of Plan A: Why the Guard Changes Lives with SSG Cuevas

    https://asvabdomination.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Cuevas.wav 🎧 Episode Summary:In Episode 42, host Mickey Gamonal welcomes Staff Sergeant Jon Cuevas, a Las Vegas-based Army National Guard recruiter with over 14 years of service and a background in nursing, active duty, and combat medicine. SSG Cuevas shares his journey from immigrant to homeowner and mentor, revealing how the National Guard became his Plan A—and why it should be yours too. They dive deep into the truth about Guard benefits, ethical recruiting, and how programs like Military Parole in Place (PIP) are helping service members protect and elevate their families. Whether you're a future soldier or a parent with questions, this episode delivers the raw truth with heart, humor, and real-life insight. 🪖 What You’ll Learn: Why choosing the Guard as your Plan A leads to long-term financial and educational success How tuition waivers, textbook reimbursement, and the GI Bill kicker can cover college and beyond The Military Parole in Place (PIP) program explained: How U.S. citizens and green card holders in the Guard can sponsor undocumented parents and spouses How the Guard stacks up against Active Duty—and why SSG Cuevas switched Why so many A+ students are struggling with the ASVAB, and how to prepare right Cuevas’ ethical approach to recruiting and why he lets applicants walk away if the job isn’t right 💥 Quote Highlights: "Uncle Sam's going to get every pint of blood out of you—you better get your benefits, too.""If you're hungry, I can feed you. If you're not hungry, I can't help you.""Most people think the Guard is Plan B. For me, it was Plan A—and it changed everything." 📲 Connect with SSG Cuevas:📸 Instagram: @ssg_cuevas📧 Email: Jon.j.cuevas.mil@army.mil📞 Phone: +1 (702) 624-5372 🎓 Need Help with the ASVAB?Raise your score and take control of your future with free and premium resources at:👉 ASVABDomination.com 🔁 Share This EpisodeKnow someone on the fence about joining the Guard? Send them this episode. Real talk from a recruiter who walks the walk.

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The ASVAB Domination podcast is designed for anyone desiring motivation, direction, and focus in reaching their ASVAB goals. Host Mickey Gamonal has helped dozens of students raise their GT and ST scores to get better jobs, bonuses, and contracts across all branches of the military. In this podcast, Mickey blends classical teaching with real world military experience to deliver explanations on making the most of your military career. If you’re ready to take your scores to the next level, or you just need extra inspiration or motivation, tune in to The ASVAB Domination Podcast. Follow Mickey on Instagram @mickey.gamonal https://www.instagram.com/mickey.gamonal/

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