Boots 2 Books

LCC Connect

Boots 2 Books (B2B) is a podcast dedicated to exploring the experiences of veteran and military-connected students. Hosted by Kyle Jakob and Dustin Abrego, B2B delves into the diverse paths and careers of those who have served their country and how they have got to where they are today. Covering topics such as transitioning to civilian life, physical and mental health, and the impact of veterans in our communities, B2B offers valuable insights for both veterans and civilians alike into the world's most diverse workforce.

  1. 2d ago

    Scouting Your Career Path, Pt. 2

    On this episode, the B2B team returns to the topic of choosing an educational or career path, while still following your passions. They discuss the unique experiences of veterans and military-connected students, as they transition to college, emphasizing the value of purpose when seeking fulfillment. It's a thoughtful conversation about finding purpose, avoiding burnout, and building a future that feels both rewarding and meaningful. Website: What's the Point? - Tom Rath ________________________________ Website: Lansing Community College Center for Veteran and Family Support

    29 min

  2. Jun 2

    Scouting Your Career Path, Pt. 1

    The B2B team discusses the challenges of choosing a college major, especially for veterans transitioning from military service to civilian life. They share personal experiences about dealing with uncertainty and finding a path that feels meaningful. The conversation encourages self-reflection, reminds listeners that it's okay to change directions, and highlights the importance of patience while discovering what brings fulfillment. ________________________________ Website: Lansing Community College Center for Veteran and Family Support

    27 min

  3. May 5

    Pacing Your Stride: University vs Community College

    This episode highlights the important role community colleges play in supporting veterans and military-affiliated students as they transition into higher education. The B2B team sits down with Patrick Forystek, Director of the Michigan State University Center for Veterans and Military Affiliated Students, to discuss how community colleges create a strong sense of belonging and offer personalized support. Together, they explore the cultural differences between community colleges and universities, emphasizing the need for institutions to meet the diverse experiences of veteran students. Mentioned This Episode Website: MSU Center for Veterans and Military Affiliated Students ________________________________ Website: Lansing Community College Center for Veteran and Family Support

    30 min

  4. Apr 21

    Deploying Financial Awareness

    On this episode, the B2B team explore money management for military members in a clear and helpful way. Covering key topics like pay schedules, travel cards, and the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA), the conversation highlights the unique challenges of managing finances under military regulations, while also addressing the potential pitfalls of predatory lending practices targeting service members. ________________________________ Website: Lansing Community College Center for Veteran and Family Support

    28 min

  5. Apr 7

    Almost Everything's an Acronym: Jargon, Pt. 2

    The B2B team dives into military jargon, exploring terms and concepts they encounter that may perplex civilians. This episode aims to bridge the gap between military and civilian perspectives, and foster understanding through communication. Host Rebecca Allen draws from her experience with the Army, to explain essential terminology and get her co-host Dustin Abrego briefed, ready for duty, and Oscar Mike. ________________________________ Website: Lansing Community College Center for Veteran and Family Support

    28 min

  6. Mar 24

    Be Bold and Envision Green with Erika Espinoza

    On this episode, the B2B team are joined in studio by Erika Espinza, Transfer Advisor Coordinator for Envision Green, a program that supports students transitioning from Lansing Community College to Michigan State University. With an emphasis on early engagement, the program aims to clarify common misconceptions about transfer eligibility, and spotlight how students can connect with advisors even before applying to ensure a smooth, informed transition to MSU. Mentioned This Episode: Website: Envision Green Website: MSU Center for Veterans and Military Affiliated Students ________________________________ Website: Lansing Community College Center for Veteran and Family Support

    29 min

  7. Mar 10

    Change Your Socks, Hydrate, & Drive On: Reintegration, Pt. 2

    On this episode, the B2B team return to finish their conversation about the often difficult transition from military to civilian life. Through heartfelt stories from guests Roy Fernandez and Dillon Bowling, both reflect on the psychological challenges they faced as veterans of reintegration. After having been tuned to a rigid military structure and mindset, many veterans struggle to adapt to the machinations of civilian life, so it becomes doubly important to help them rediscover purpose and belonging, and see them as having a vital role in the community. ________________________________ Website: Lansing Community College Center for Veteran and Family Support

    26 min

  8. Feb 24

    Pathways to Possibility: Reintegration, Pt. 1

    On this episode, the B2B team are joined in the studio by Roy Fernandez and Dillon Bowling, both veterans and students navigating their academic paths at LCC. They share their unique experiences as veterans, who have not only transitioned back to civilian life, but also transitioned into higher education. As they attest to, many veterans feel unprepared for life after service, highlighting the importance of support systems like the Veteran Center. ________________________________ Website: Lansing Community College Center for Veteran and Family Support

    26 min
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About

Boots 2 Books (B2B) is a podcast dedicated to exploring the experiences of veteran and military-connected students. Hosted by Kyle Jakob and Dustin Abrego, B2B delves into the diverse paths and careers of those who have served their country and how they have got to where they are today. Covering topics such as transitioning to civilian life, physical and mental health, and the impact of veterans in our communities, B2B offers valuable insights for both veterans and civilians alike into the world's most diverse workforce.

Information

  • Creator
    LCC Connect
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    25
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 LCC Connect
  • Show Website
    Boots 2 Books