The Next Tour podcast

Andia and Ian Dinesen
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated Semiweekly

Ian and Andia will explore the unique journey of military transition—before, during, and after service. Whether a servicemember is ending their first term, stepping into a new career post-retirement, or settling into full retirement after decades of service, this podcast has been created to help. Ian and Andia know firsthand the big decisions, challenges, and sometimes overwhelming questions that come with each step of the transition process. Through open conversations and real stories, The Next Tour brings you support, guidance, and practical insights from those who’ve walked the path

  1. Episode 37 – Transition Spotlight: Salary and Benefits Tips

    Jun 1

    Episode 37 – Transition Spotlight: Salary and Benefits Tips

    In this episode of The Next Tour, Ian and Andia talk about their post-military and military spouse career journeys. Negotiating salary is tough, especially when you’re used to set military pay. We look back to when Ian was transitioning from military life to civilian roles and some of Andia’s salary and benefits negotiations as she landed roles in different organizations over the years. Finding mentors and networking helped guide both their paths. Furthermore, research was key for both of them, as it should be for you, too. Understand your value and the market range for your role. Don’t just focus on salary, consider benefits too. Things like vacation time and work flexibility can be just ascrucial.  Remember, it’s not just about the dollar amount. Think about what kind of work-life balance you want. Don’t undervalue your skills and experiences to maximize your overall compensation! Below are links and resources that we mentioned during the show: Military Officers Association of America(MOAA)Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Fact Sheet on Recruitment IncentivesOPM Fact Sheet on Relocation IncentivesOPM Fact Sheet on Retention IncentivesCandid – Nonprofit ResearchConnect with Andia on LinkedInConnect with Ian on LinkedIn  The Next Tour Podcast disclaimer The views, opinions, and advice expressed by our guests on The Next Tour are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast, Ian, Andia, or any affiliated organizations. While we strive to provide helpful and accurate information, this podcast is for informational purposes only. We encourage listeners to consult with professionals or conducttheir own research before making any significant decisions related to military transition or post-service life. The content is intended as guidance and personal perspective, not as official advice.

    25 min
  2. Episode 36 - Transition to a Jobby

    May 15

    Episode 36 - Transition to a Jobby

    In this episode of The Next Tour, Ian and Andia talk with retired Navy Captain Laura Hatcher about her transition from military service to professional photography. What started as a hobbyeventually turned into a second career, and Laura shares the story of how she made that shift, along with the lessons she learned along the way. We talk about creativity, taking chances, building something new after the military, and finding ways to turn personal passions into meaningful work. Laura also shares how she’s helping others explore photography for themselves. It’s a fun, honest conversation full of encouragement and practical insight for anyone navigating their own next tour. Below are links and resources that we mentioned during the show: Laura Hatcher PhotographyAmerica’s Small Business DevelopmentCentersSyracuse University D’AnielloInstitute for Veterans & Military FamiliesConnect with Laura on LinkedIn  The Next Tour Podcast disclaimer The views, opinions, and advice expressed by our guests on The Next Tour are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast, Ian, Andia, or any affiliated organizations. While we strive to provide helpful and accurateinformation, this podcast is for informational purposes only. We encourage listeners to consult with professionals or conduct their own research before making any significant decisions related to military transition or post-service life. The content is intended as guidance and personal perspective, not as official advice.

    30 min
  3. Episode 35 – Transition and the Sea of Job Opportunities

    May 1

    Episode 35 – Transition and the Sea of Job Opportunities

    In this episode of The Next Tour, Ian and Andia talk with Beau Higgins, a Marine Corps retiree who transitioned to civilian life in August 2014. After serving, he worked at Amazon, leading initiatives focused on military hiring before joining Oplign, a free resource designed to connect veterans and military spouses with job opportunities. In today's competitive job market, many veterans and military spouses face unique challenges when transitioning to civilian employment, and with so many resources available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. We explore how Oplign stands out as a powerful tool that connects veterans with job opportunities tailored to their specific skills and experiences.  Connect with Beau on LinkedIn and check out both Oplign and TheMilVet to learn more about what they are doing in the job search space. You can also check out Andia’s time on Oplign’s podcast called Opcast. Finally, you can check out MOAA’s Job Board, where they leverage the Oplign platform to power your job search opportunities.  Beau is also active with both the Travis Manion Foundation and Toys for Tots. Please check out those organizations to see all the great things they do. The Next Tour Podcast disclaimer The views, opinions, and advice expressed by our guests on The Next Tour are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast, Ian, Andia, or any affiliated organizations. While we strive to provide helpful and accurate information, this podcast is for informational purposes only. We encourage listeners to consult with professionals or conduct their own research before making any significant decisions related to military transition or post-service life. The content is intended as guidance and personal perspective, not as official advice.

    25 min
  4. Episode 34 - Transition Spotlight: Defense Contractors

    Apr 15

    Episode 34 - Transition Spotlight: Defense Contractors

    In this episode of The Next Tour, Ian and Andia talk with Benito “Benny” Barrón, a retired Air Force colonel, who shares his journey from military service to leading defense programs at a contracting firm. He emphasizes that understanding the financial and acquisition processes is crucial for success in this field. But it’s not just about numbers; it’s about passion and culture. Finding a company that aligns with your values is essential, especially when the work gets tough. Benny reminds us that humility is key—be open to learning and asking questions. He also shares that transition from military to civilian life is not easy, but with the right mindset, it can be incredibly rewarding. Connect with Benny on LinkedIn and check out Digital Force Technologies to learn more about what they are doing in the National Security space. The Next Tour Podcast disclaimer The views, opinions, and advice expressed by our guests on The Next Tour are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast, Ian, Andia, or any affiliated organizations. While we strive to provide helpful and accurate information, this podcast is for informational purposes only. We encourage listeners to consult with professionals or conduct their own research before making any significant decisions related to military transition or post-service life. The content is intended as guidance and personal perspective, not as official advice.

    29 min
  5. Episode 33 - Transition and Wealth Planning

    Apr 1

    Episode 33 - Transition and Wealth Planning

    In this episode of The Next Tour, Ian and Andia talk with Lewis Baker, a former US Army Infantry Officer and current Wealth Planner, to discover essential tips for military members transitioning to civilian life and wealth planning. Learn how to avoid common pitfalls and succeed in financial management. The transition from military service to civilian life can be daunting, especially when it comes to financial planning. Many veterans face challenges in managing their finances, and without the right guidance, they may find themselves making costly mistakes. In this episode, you will learn key strategies to succeed in wealth planning after your military career and how to avoid missteps that could impact your financial future.  Connect with Lewis on LinkedIn. Please also check out these resources we mentioned on the show. Academy Fund Rock Creek Wealth Planners & Advisors10X Vets

    29 min
  6. Episode 32 - Checkup on Our Transition

    Mar 15

    Episode 32 - Checkup on Our Transition

    In this episode of The Next Tour, Ian and Andia provide a real check-in on our family’s transition journey. It’s been two and a half years since Ian transitioned to civilian life, and there’s a big realization that rings true—it's a journey, not a destination. We’ve faced changes, challenges, and lots of self-discovery. From career shifts to our daughters finding their paths, every step has taught us resilience. Remember, it’s okay to take your time figuring things out. As we navigate this journey, we remind ourselves: it’s all about embracing the process and staying connected with those who uplift us.The Next Tour Podcast disclaimer:The views, opinions, and advice expressed by our guests on The Next Tour are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast, Ian, Andia, or any affiliated organizations. While we strive to provide helpful and accurate information, this podcast is for informational purposes only. We encourage listeners to consult with professionals or conduct their own research before making any significant decisions related to military transition or post-service life. The content is intended as guidance and personal perspective, not as official advice.

    17 min
  7. Episode 31 - Transition from Military Service to College Acceptance

    Mar 1

    Episode 31 - Transition from Military Service to College Acceptance

    In this episode of The Next Tour, Ian and Andia meet with Sydney Matthes, a military spouse and current CEO of Service to School (S2S), a 501(c)(3) non-profit that provides free college and grad school application counseling to U.S. military Veterans and Service Members. Sydney tells us about the unique aspects of what S2S does for college hopefuls, helping each person work through the unique aspects of the application process, including timing, preparedness, essay writing, and a curated post-educational environment to take the degree into the professional world. If you are thinking about how higher education can help you but need assistance with the application process and beyond, you should check out S2S to see how they can help you land the best possible educational experience possible. Check out the Service to School (S2S) homepage and get your educational goes in motion. You can also connect with S2S and Sydney on LinkedIn. The Next Tour Podcast disclaimer The views, opinions, and advice expressed by our guests on The Next Tour are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast, Ian, Andia, or any affiliated organizations. While we strive to provide helpful and accurate information, this podcast is for informational purposes only. We encourage listeners to consult with professionals or conduct their own research before making any significant decisions related to military transition or post-service life. The content is intended as guidance and personal perspective, not as official advice.

    28 min
  8. Episode 30 - Transition a Hobby into a Career

    Feb 15

    Episode 30 - Transition a Hobby into a Career

    In this episode of The Next Tour, Ian and Andia meet with Paul Rodgers, a retired Air Force Chief Master Sergeant, who took his passion for woodworking and turned it into a post-military career. Using his creativity and desire to remain connected with the military and veteran space, Paul formed Barefoot Woodwrks, where he blends his mastery of design with the visions of his clients, creating heirloom quality works of art, all with the military at heart. Check out this episode to hear how Paul was able to turn his hobby into something significantly more and learn some tips on how you can do it, too. Below are links and resources that we mentioned during the show: ·     Boots to Business entrepreneurial education and training program for service members and military spouses. Connect with Paul on LinkedIn. Also, check out Barefoot Woodwrks if you would like to get your hands on some of Paul’s exceptional work. The Next Tour Podcast disclaimer The views, opinions, and advice expressed by our guests on The Next Tour are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast, Ian, Andia, or any affiliated organizations. While we strive to provide helpful and accurate information, this podcast is for informational purposes only. We encourage listeners to consult with professionals or conduct their own research before making any significant decisions related to military transition or post-service life. The content is intended as guidance and personal perspective, not as official advice.

    34 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Ian and Andia will explore the unique journey of military transition—before, during, and after service. Whether a servicemember is ending their first term, stepping into a new career post-retirement, or settling into full retirement after decades of service, this podcast has been created to help. Ian and Andia know firsthand the big decisions, challenges, and sometimes overwhelming questions that come with each step of the transition process. Through open conversations and real stories, The Next Tour brings you support, guidance, and practical insights from those who’ve walked the path

Information

  • Creator
    Andia and Ian Dinesen
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    41
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Andia and Ian Dinesen
  • Show Website
    The Next Tour podcast

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