ReAudio: ReAssess Your Workers Comp Toolbox ReEmployAbility

Join us in part 2 of our series of A Veteran's Perspective. We delve into the captivating story of Mike May, a U.S. Army veteran turned account manager at Reemployability. In this episode, Mike provides a raw and insightful account of his service during the Global War on Terrorism in Afghanistan. He explores the complexities of his transformation from a soldier to a civilian, sharing with us the harsh realities of war and the bitter-sweet journey toward disillusionment, resilience, and perspective. His riveting narrative promises to provide a unique, first-hand glimpse into the experiences of veterans, highlighting the importance of empathy, understanding, and respect for those who serve. 

Moving beyond the battlefield, we unpack Mike's life post his military tenure. Facing adversity with grace, he discusses his views on entitlement, humility, and the struggles encountered by many veterans as they transition back into civilian life. His stories underscore the significant role of resources available to veterans to ease their transition. His journey is one of resilience, growth, and an unwavering commitment to serving others. Whether you're a veteran, a friend or family member of a veteran, or simply interested in understanding their experiences, this episode promises an engaging and enlightening exploration of a veteran’s journey.

For more resources and information on The Hero's Journey visit https://theheroesjourney.org/ 

Have you ever wondered what it's like to stare death in the face and come out the other side? Our guest, Mike May, a former serviceman with the 10th Mountain Division and now an account manager at Reemployability, lived through this very reality when his vehicle was hit by an IED explosion in Afghanistan. His recount of this life-altering event, the intense rivalry in his unit, and the emotional toll it all took on him is a riveting tale of human resilience.

Transitioning back to civilian life post-military service is a tremendous challenge that many veterans grapple with. In our chat with Mike, he candidly opens up about this struggle, sharing how the adrenaline of the battlefield clashes with the mundanity of day-to-day civilian life. We also delve into the importance of sharing our experiences, breaking stigmas, and understanding how these experiences can shape us into more productive members of society. We further discuss The Hero's Journey and other resources that provide crucial support to veterans reacclimating to civilian lifestyle. Tune in to this episode for an honest, inspiring, and enlightening conversation with Mike - it's sure to foster empathy for the unique challenges faced by our veterans.

If you are a veteran or know someone who is, please know that there are resources to help acclimate back into civilian life like https://theheroesjourney.org/.

Some people know their calling at a young age. Shamine Linton’s childhood prepared her for her mission, although she didn’t grasp it at the time. It wasn’t until an illness struck her daughter that she realized the years she spent in service as a child herself would pay huge dividends to her community.
 Imagine having the power to restore someone's confidence through a simple act of kindness. This is the everyday reality for our guest, Shamine Linton, founder of Sharia's Closet. This nonprofit organization is making a difference by providing emergency clothing, hygiene products, and basic essentials at no cost to those in need. Through her impactful partnership with Reemployability, Shamine is offering a lifeline to injured workers, demonstrating the profound influence of meeting basic needs without judgment.


 Sharia’s Closet (https://www.shariascloset.org/) has served tens of thousands in the San Diego area since 2013. Shamine tells us about how volunteers and Injured Workers placed at Sharia’s Closet take away from their experience refreshed, energized, and in a significantly more positive mental state than when they started. Proving how much you receive from giving.  

When I heard the story of Jose, an Injured Worker placed at Martha’s Kitchen & Village for a modified duty assignment by ReEmployAbility, I was impressed by how his experience helped him in ways he wouldn’t have imagined prior to his injury. 

There were positive unintended consequences. This opened the door to the story of Alexandra Vargus, then Volunteer Coordinator for Martha’s.  Her story is one of bravery and a decision to do what’s right.  Learn more about Martha’s Kitchen & Village at https://marthasvillage.org/.  

If you have a story you want to share, please let us know by sending a note to todd@reemployability.com.
 

The biggest lesson I’ve learned in the 89 episodes we’ve done of ReAudio is that attitude is everything.  A positive attitude from an employer can make or break a modified duty assignment.  The attitude of an adjuster, with the benefit of an Injured Worker in mind, can influence the attitude of the employer and the injured worker.  But it’s the attitude (many times the ingrained attitude) of someone who sustains an injury that’s most impressive.  That’s why we bring you positive stories… to prove positive attitudes win, even in Workers Comp.

Have you ever found yourself sidelined by an unforeseen circumstance, grappling with the uncertainty of your future? Imagine the fear of a truck driver, Walter, who severely injured his shoulder and couldn't drive anymore. His journey of physical recovery also became a journey of mental resilience, as he navigated the uncharted territories of recovery and reemployment. Founder & CEO of ReEmployAbility, Debra Livingston, joins us to share Walter's transformational journey, a narrative that might resonate with many of us.

If you know anyone whose story should be told, please let us know. Email todd@reemployability.com.