Lessons Learned for Vets

Lori Norris
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Supporting veterans to achieve career success as they navigate the challenges of transitioning out of the military. Each week we will bring you a new mentor who will teach you the lessons they have learned as they traveled the military transition path before you.

  1. What Happens When You Can't Answer the "What Makes You Happy?" Question with Thomas McKenzie

    4D AGO

    What Happens When You Can't Answer the "What Makes You Happy?" Question with Thomas McKenzie

    Send us a text What happens when the military career you've devoted your life to suddenly comes to an end? For Thomas McKenzie, a Marine who reached E9 before his 20-year mark, this question became painfully real when faced with undesirable relocation options. His powerful story reveals that military transition goes far beyond the job hunt. It's a profound journey of rediscovering who you are without the uniform. McKenzie candidly shares how a chance encounter with the SkillBridge program became "the biggest blessing" during his transition, providing crucial time to process his service while weathering personal tragedies and relationship changes. Through working with thousands of veterans since, he's identified a dangerous "fallacy" that begins at recruitment, This is the misguided belief that military service automatically guarantees civilian success. "I think transition out of the military is the single hardest thing that any human being that ever serves will do," McKenzie reflects. His analogy comparing transitioning service members to the Little Mermaid perfectly captures the challenge: observing humans from shore while taking advice from birds who've never walked on land. The most moving moment comes when McKenzie reveals how a therapist's simple question, "What makes you happy outside of the military?," left him in tears, unable to answer. His breakthrough came through imagining his 90-year-old self on his deathbed, considering what he wanted to be remembered for. Whether you're planning your military exit, supporting someone who is, or simply interested in veteran experiences, this episode provides profound insights into the emotional and psychological journey of military transition. McKenzie's message is clear: success comes with time, support, and the determination to discover your purpose beyond the uniform. SeekNow and Drive Academy have chosen to sponsor this entire season of the Lessons Learned for Vets Podcast in order to increase awareness of the opportunities their company offers. You can learn more and apply at www.internwithdrive.com. You can connect with Thomas McKenzie at https://www.linkedin.com/in/repurpose-mac/ Subscribe to our YouTube channel at https://tinyurl.com/llforvets22 Subscribe to the podcast and leave us a 5-star review. Please share this with other veterans who might need help as they transition from the military!

    45 min
  2. Understanding VA Disability Appeals: A Veteran Attorney's Insider Guide with Chris McGhee

    AUG 13

    Understanding VA Disability Appeals: A Veteran Attorney's Insider Guide with Chris McGhee

    Send us a text What happens when your VA disability claim gets denied? For many veterans, this rejection feels deeply personal. But as Chris McGhee explains, denial is often just the beginning of a journey toward proper recognition of service-connected conditions. In this informative conversation, Chris McGhee, a retired Air Force veteran who transformed from aircraft maintainer to VA disability attorney, shares insights from both sides of the claims process. Having navigated his own disability claim with limited success initially, Chris now helps fellow veterans secure the benefits they've earned through his practice, Falcon Forward Law Group. Chris demystifies the appeals process by addressing common misconceptions and explaining why claims get denied. From inexperienced examiners to simple bureaucratic errors, he reveals how the system sometimes fails veterans despite their legitimate conditions. Rather than accepting these denials, veterans should understand their appeal rights and the immense difference proper representation can make. We cover the significant differences between disability rating levels. Beyond just monthly compensation, McGhee explains how crossing certain thresholds (especially 50% and 100%) unlocks life-changing benefits including concurrent receipt for retirees, healthcare for non-service-connected conditions, education benefits for family members and state-level tax exemptions. His breakdown of "VA math" helps veterans understand why their multiple ratings don't simply add up as expected. Perhaps most valuable is Chris' advice about medical documentation while in service. Drawing from his own experience of rarely seeking treatment for migraines throughout his career, he emphasizes how even a single documented medical visit can establish that crucial in-service event needed for future claims. This perspective highlights the delicate balance service members face between protecting their careers and creating evidence for future disability claims. If you're navigating the complex VA disability system, considering an appeal, or preparing to transition from military service, this episode provides essential guidance from someone who truly understands the journey. Subscribe to Lessons Learned for Vets for more insights that can help smooth your military transition journey. You can connect with Chris McGhee on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/cmcghee358/ You can learn more about Chris McGhee's legal practice at https://www.fafo-law.com/

    57 min
  3. Navigating an Unexpected Medical Retirement with Aaris Whitman

    JUL 30

    Navigating an Unexpected Medical Retirement with Aaris Whitman

    Send us a text When Master Sergeant Aaris Whitman received her Type 1 diabetes diagnosis after 23 years in the Air Force, her carefully laid military career plans crumbled. Instead of serving 26-28 years as intended, she faced sudden medical retirement and an unexpected civilian transition that left her feeling lost and adrift. "Change is the only thing you can really count on to be consistent," Aaris explains, sharing how she allowed herself to feel her emotions before getting to work on her transition. Recognizing the limited time available, she secured a Hiring Our Heroes fellowship at Allegiant Airlines to gain crucial corporate experience while still on active duty. The podcast delves into the challenges veterans face when translating military skills for civilian employers. Aaris discovered that despite her extensive leadership experience as a First Sergeant, employers didn't automatically recognize her value. Through persistence, networking and learning to "speak corporate," she eventually landed positions at Amazon and later Credit One Bank. Her five years as a First Sergeant proved invaluable in her current role as a Talent Management Partner. Aaris now teaches leadership principles that transcend both military and corporate worlds in subjects such as emotional intelligence, trust-building, effective feedback and above all, servant leadership. She shares the quote, "If serving is beneath you, then leadership is beyond you," emphasizing that true leadership centers on understanding people. Perhaps most compelling is Aaris' work creating community for fellow veterans. Recognizing the isolation many veterans feel after transition, she founded "VET as One" (Value and Empower Together), a veteran and ally resource group at Credit One Bank. This initiative provides crucial connection points for veterans while educating allies about military experience. For veterans struggling with transition, Aaris offers practical advice about seeking community intentionally through organizations like Merging Vets and Players. Her story demonstrates how military experiences, even difficult ones like unexpected retirement, can become powerful foundations for civilian success when paired with adaptability, community and compassionate leadership. You can connect with Aaris Whitman on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaris-p-morris/

    36 min
  4. What's The Catch? Exploring a Too-Good-To-Be-True Career with Mark Ardecki

    JUL 16

    What's The Catch? Exploring a Too-Good-To-Be-True Career with Mark Ardecki

    Send us a text Mark Ardecki's military transition story will resonate with anyone who's faced the uncertainty of post-service life. After nine years as a Marine with a special forces background, Mark found himself asking the same question most veterans do: "What's next?" Following brief stints as a lineman and arborist, Mark discovered an unexpected career path with Seek Now as a field inspector. What makes his story remarkable isn't just the career change itself, but the dramatic improvement in his work-life balance and compensation. He went from grueling 14-hour workdays to earning comparable pay in just a couple of hours of inspection work. The skills that propelled Mark's success aren't technical construction knowledge, which he freely admits he lacked. However, the core competencies most veterans already possess such as punctuality, accountability, integrity and human connection, were the key to his success. As a field inspector documenting property damage for insurance claims, Mark found himself uniquely positioned to help people during difficult times while maintaining the objectivity his role requires. Now serving as the East Coast Lead Inspector, Mark has mentored over 20 transitioning service members through Seek Now's Drive Academy SkillBridge program. His pride in watching these veterans succeed mirrors the satisfaction he feels in his own career journey. Even more impressive, every one of his mentees has successfully placed into permanent roles with the company, with some now crossing the six-figure income threshold. The comprehensive training program that combines classroom instruction, hands-on mentorship and certification provides veterans with everything they need to succeed, regardless of prior experience. In fact, Mark prefers training those with no construction background so they can "start with a clean slate." For veterans considering their next move, Mark offers this perspective: "Everybody asks me what the catch is. I have yet to find it." With opportunities in 47 states and flexible work arrangements, Seek Now represents the kind of opportunity many transitioning service members are searching for but don't know exists. Curious about starting your own post-military success story? Visit internwithdrive.com to explore how your military skills might translate into an unexpected and rewarding new career path.

    36 min
  5. How Training Service Dogs Helped a Marine Heal and Thrive with Ryan Woodruff

    JUL 2

    How Training Service Dogs Helped a Marine Heal and Thrive with Ryan Woodruff

    Send us a text What happens when the skills that kept you alive in combat become the very things holding you back in civilian life? Former Marine Ryan Woodruff's powerful journey reveals how purpose can emerge from our darkest struggles. After two deployments to Iraq and losing 14 fellow Marines, Ryan's transition to civilian life spiraled into PTS, alcoholism, and isolation. The brotherhood, mission, and structure that defined his military service vanished overnight. "I wasn't ready to acknowledge I was dealing with mental health issues," Ryan reveals. "My way of coping with all of this was alcohol." Everything changed when Ryan found Clear Path for Veterans and was matched with a service dog. In an extraordinary insight, Ryan discovered his dog had begun mirroring his own anxiety and hypervigilance. This wake-up call became his catalyst for seeking help. He discovered that service dogs reflect the best and worst parts about our character, and he set out on a mission to improve himself and focus on his mental health. Ryan takes us inside the remarkable world of service dogs for veterans, explaining how these animals are trained to respond to specific symptoms of PTS and TBI. From recognizing when a veteran is anxiously twisting their wedding band to providing grounding techniques during moments of distress, these canine companions offer both practical support and profound connection. Most powerfully, Ryan challenges the "sliding scale" mentality that keeps many veterans from seeking help. "It's not a competition," he insists, urging listeners to reach out regardless of how they perceive their struggles compared to others. His journey from program recipient to CEO of Clear Path demonstrates how our darkest challenges can transform into our greatest purpose when we embrace connection and vulnerability. Whether you're a transitioning service member, a veteran struggling with mental health issues or simply someone interested in the healing power of human-animal bonds, this episode offers both practical resources and the inspiration to take that first step toward healing. If you're struggling with PTSD, alcoholism, or other mental health challenges, reach out to Clear Path for Veterans at 315-687-3300 or explore resources like the Crisis Line (988), Vet Centers (VetCenter.VA.gov), or Assistance Dogs International. You can connect with Ryan Woodruff on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-woodruff-290514195/ Subscribe to our YouTube channel at https://tinyurl.com/llforvets22 SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A FIVE-STAR REVIEW and share this with other veterans who might need help as they transition from the military!

    40 min
  6. Tackling Veteran Underemployment through The Call of Duty Endowment with Dan Goldenberg

    JUN 18

    Tackling Veteran Underemployment through The Call of Duty Endowment with Dan Goldenberg

    Send us a text Struggling to translate your military experience into civilian success? Dan Goldenberg's journey from Naval officer to leading the Call of Duty Endowment offers a masterclass in veteran career transition done right. When Dan took over the Call of Duty Endowment in 2013, he transformed it from a traditional "big check and handshake" foundation into a powerhouse of veteran employment support. By implementing accountability measures and focusing on quality outcomes, the Call of Duty Endowment has helped place over 150,000 veterans in meaningful jobs at just 1/15th the cost of government programs. "The fundamental thing that differentiates us from other approaches is accountability," Dan explains, describing their quarterly performance reviews and commitment to continuous improvement. The conversation tackles a critical misconception head-on: veteran hiring isn't charity, it's simply smart business. Data from Fortune 500 executives shows veterans are 3% more productive and 3% more likely to stay with companies throughout their careers. Yet many companies miss this opportunity, while many veterans struggle with underemployment because they leap at the first job offer rather than finding the right fit. Perhaps the most valuable advice comes when discussing job search strategy: "I'd rather invest in 100 conversations than sending 100 resumes." This networking-focused approach not only builds connections but provides critical self-discovery. Dan also highlights the current crisis facing veterans cut from federal positions, who receive none of the transition support offered to military members, underscoring the urgent need for specialized employment assistance. You can find the article here: www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7323717975612567554/ Whether you're a transitioning service member, a veteran seeking better employment, or an employer looking to build a stronger workforce, this episode delivers practical wisdom and proven strategies for success. Check out callofdutyendowment.org to connect with their grantees for free employment support or to support their mission financially. You can connect with Dan Goldenberg on LinkedIn here: www.linkedin.com/in/dangoldenberg92/ Subscribe to our YouTube channel at https://tinyurl.com/llforvets22 SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A FIVE-STAR REVIEW and share this with other veterans who might need help as they transition from the military! The Lessons Learned for Vets Podcast is sponsored by Seek Now and their Drive Academy. Seek Now is the property inspection industry's leading business and they created Drive Academy DoD SkillBridge and CSP internships to teach transitioning military service members and veterans skills that prepare them for lucrative and rewarding careers in the property inspection and insurance industries. You can learn more and apply today at www.internwithdrive.com.

    47 min
  7. The Cost-Benefit Analysis of Separation Vs. Retirement with Michael Pett

    JUN 4

    The Cost-Benefit Analysis of Separation Vs. Retirement with Michael Pett

    Send us a text Michael Pett defied conventional military career wisdom when he chose to leave active duty at the 15-year mark. His calculated decision, backed by a thorough cost-benefit analysis comparing potential civilian earnings against military retirement, launched him into remarkable opportunities at Accenture and Uber before his current leadership role at Vets in Tech. What sets Michael's transition story apart is his foresight and preparation. While still in uniform, he co-founded a protein dispenser business with fellow veterans that earned them a spot on Shark Tank. This entrepreneurial venture expanded his network beyond military circles and developed skills that proved invaluable in corporate environments. Witnessing family members struggle with their own military transitions provided Michael with critical insights into potential pitfalls, reinforcing his commitment to meticulous preparation. The emotional aspects of transition prove equally challenging. Michael compares the experience to stages of grief, describing the limbo between military and civilian identities where veterans can feel isolated from both communities. This insight led him to build diverse support networks including both veterans who successfully transitioned and civilians who could guide him through corporate culture. After his success building veteran programs at Accenture and Uber, Michael faced burnout and mental health challenges that forced him to prioritize his own wellbeing first before refocusing on his career achievement. Today, as Director of Employment and Community Outreach at Vets in Tech, Michael supports veterans through the organization's three pillars: education, employment and entrepreneurship. From developing technical skills to connecting with employment opportunities at major tech companies to providing capital for veteran-founded startups, this comprehensive approach addresses the spectrum of transition needs. You can learn more about their programs at www.vetsintech.com.  His journey demonstrates that with strategic planning, openness to new experiences, and willingness to seek support, veterans can build fulfilling civilian careers that leverage their military experience in unexpected ways. You can connect with Michael on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelpett1/ Subscribe to our YouTube channel at https://tinyurl.com/llforvets22 SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A FIVE-STAR REVIEW and share this with other veterans who might need help as they transition from the military!

    36 min
  8. Walking 500 Miles to Find a New Purpose with Randall Surles

    MAY 21

    Walking 500 Miles to Find a New Purpose with Randall Surles

    Send us a text What happens when a highly-decorated Green Beret with an MFA in Creative Writing decides to forge a completely different path after retirement? Randy Surles takes us on his remarkable journey from 32 years in Army Special Forces to becoming a sought-after editor and ghostwriter for military authors. Randy's story begins with unexpected change when policy shifts forced an earlier retirement than planned. Facing this transition while going through a divorce, he embarked on a soul-searching 500-mile hike across northern Spain on the famous Camino de Santiago. The trek, intended to help process his military exit and prove his physical capabilities despite injuries, delivered far more than expected, including meeting his future wife on just the second day. While hiking, Randy received an email about a specialized editing certification program. What began as a simple interest in improving his own writing transformed into the foundation of a thriving business. Within two years of focused effort, Randy built a six-figure editing and ghostwriting practice that now allows him to work just 20 hours weekly from his home in Spain. The episode dives deep into the realities of military memoir writing, with Randy explaining the different approaches authors take, from legacy memoirs documenting entire careers to focused accounts of specific deployments. His experience collaborating on the New York Times bestseller "Operation Pineapple Express" and over 40 other books provides listeners with candid insights about publishing economics and what it really takes to succeed in the industry. Most valuably, Randy shares how he's paying it forward through his SkillBridge program called "Story Ninjas," teaching transitioning service members the editing craft and business fundamentals they need to follow a similar path. You can learn more about this program at https://militaryeditor.com/ghostwriting/ and https://thestoryninjas.com/.  His newly-launched Military Writers Academy aims to connect veteran authors with editors who understand military culture and experiences. If you want to explore how your military background might translate into a creative career, connect with Randy on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/randall-surles-military-editor/ This conversation offers both inspiration and practical wisdom for charting an unconventional but rewarding post-service path. Subscribe to Lessons Learned for Vets for more stories of successful military transitions.

    53 min
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About

Supporting veterans to achieve career success as they navigate the challenges of transitioning out of the military. Each week we will bring you a new mentor who will teach you the lessons they have learned as they traveled the military transition path before you.

Information

  • Creator
    Lori Norris
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    188
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Lessons Learned for Vets
  • Show Website
    Lessons Learned for Vets

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