The FourBlock Podcast

FourBlock
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The FourBlock Podcast

Welcome to the FourBlock Podcast, a show that examines veteran career transition and the military-civilian divide in the workplace. General Charles Krulak coined the term "Three Block War" to describe the nature of 21st-century military service defined by peace-keeping, humanitarian aid, and full combat. But what happens next? Veterans are often unprepared to return home and begin new careers. We call this the Fourth Block. FourBlock is a national non-profit that has supported thousands of transitioning service members across the nation in beginning new and meaningful careers. Mike Abrams is an Afghanistan veteran, the founder of FourBlock, and author of two military transition books. He’ll be representing the military transition perspective. Lindsey Pollak is a career and workplace expert and New York Times bestselling author of three career advice books. Lindsey will be representing the civilian perspective of this issue. Podcast episodes are produced and edited by the Columbia University Center for Veteran Transition and Integration.

  1. 11/13/2023

    How a U.S. Navy Veteran Transitioned from the Nuclear Power Program to a Successful Engineering Career

    Join us on the latest episode of the FourBlock Podcast as hosts Michael Abrams and Lindsey Pollak engage in a thought-provoking conversation with Tom Croff, the head of the Aviation Department at Matern Professional Engineering. With a rich background that transitions from serving as an Electrician's Mate in the U.S. Navy's Nuclear Power Program to spearheading critical projects in the aviation sector, Tom brings a unique perspective on navigating career shifts and leveraging military skills in the civilian workforce.  In this episode, Tom reflects on his career path, sharing pivotal moments of his time in the Navy, including his role as a Junior Instructor, where he cultivated his expertise in complex technical disciplines. We delve into his transition to the engineering industry and how his military discipline and knowledge fueled his success in a new arena.  At the helm of numerous projects at Orlando International Airport, Tom discusses the engineering of the airport’s latest terminal and Matern’s approach to innovation in electrical engineering within aviation. His experiences provide valuable insights for veterans who aim to explore careers in the engineering industry after their military service.  To close out the episode, Tom shares his seasoned advice to veterans considering a similar path. This episode is a great guidepost for veterans seeking to translate their military experience into a successful civilian career, particularly in the dynamic field of engineering.   Tom has run the Aviation Department at Matern Professional Engineering for over 21 years and has overseen hundreds of projects in the aviation industry. He has worked with the Orlando International Airport for many years assisting with electrical, security and low voltage systems work.   Most recently, he has been leading a project on the Orlando International Airport's new terminal. He was enlisted in the U.S. Navy in the early/mid-nineties as an Electrician's Mate in the Nuclear Power Program. During his service, he spent most of his time at the Naval Nuclear Power Training Command, where he was a junior instructor helping the chiefs and senior chiefs teach heat transfer and fluid flow, thermodynamics, and AC theory.  When he transitioned out of the military, he started his career in electrical construction and then switched to engineering in the early 2000s.    ABOUT US Welcome to the FourBlock Podcast, a show that examines veteran career transition and the military-civilian divide in the workplace. General Charles Krulak coined the term "Three Block War" to describe the nature of 21st-century military service defined by peace-keeping, humanitarian aid, and full combat. But what happens next? Veterans are often unprepared to return home and begin new careers. We call this the Fourth Block.  FourBlock is a national non-profit that has supported thousands of transitioning service members across the nation in beginning new and meaningful careers.  Mike Abrams (@fourblock) is an Afghanistan veteran, founder of FourBlock, and author of two military transition books. He represents the military transition perspective. Lindsey Pollak (@lindsaypollak) is a career and workplace expert and New York Times bestselling author of three career advice books. Lindsey represents the civilian perspective of this issue.  Veterans, explore new industries and make the right connections. Find a career that fits your calling. Join us at fourblock.org/ Sponsor our program or host a class to equip more of our veterans at fourblock.org/donate. Follow FourBlock on Social Media  LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Twitter Podcast episodes are produced and edited in part by the Columbia University Center for Veteran Transition and Integration.

    27 min

  2. 10/30/2023

    Hiring Veterans in Aviation: Insights from an HR Expert

    On this episode of the FourBlock Podcast, discover why veterans' skills are in high demand in aviation and hear actionable advice on resume building, networking, and interview preparation from Britney Ratcliff, Director of Human Resources at Metro Aviation®.   Britney brings her extensive experience in recruiting and human resources to the discussion along with a passion for supporting transitioning service members.  In conversation with Lindsey Pollak and this week’s guest host Queta Rodriguez, Britney shares valuable insights into how veterans can navigate the job market successfully and speaks to how Metro Aviation® supports veterans in making the transition from military to civilian work, employing more than 330 military veterans in many different roles throughout the company.  Family-owned and operated since its inception in 1982, Metro Aviation® is the largest privately held, traditional air medical operator in the U.S. and the largest air medical completion center in the world, operating more than 160 aircraft for more than 40 programs in over 25 states nationwide.   Whether you're a veteran or someone interested in supporting veterans in their career journeys, this episode offers valuable tips and perspectives that you won't want to miss! Britney has years of recruiting, safety, and human resources experience, a Bachelor’s in Business Management and Administration, and a Master of Business Administration with a Human Resources Specialization from Louisiana State University at Shreveport.   Over the years, Britney has actively served as a volunteer for multiple local organizations, including the 2021 President of the NWLA SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management) chapter. She enjoys working in aviation, connecting with other professionals, providing resume and career search assistance, and offering support and guidance to transitioning service members.     To learn more about Metro Aviation and available opportunities, visit choosemetro.metroaviation.com.     Meet a few of Metro Aviation’s veterans and see what they have to say about making the transition and why they chose Metro Aviation at metroaviation.com/miltociv/.

    29 min

  3. 10/16/2023

    Follow Your Passion: How One U.S. Marine Corps Veteran Became a Battle-Tested Entrepreneur

    This week on The FourBlock Podcast, it’s an honor to welcome two members of the leadership team from Battle Tested Security, a company that provides innovative event solutions and proudly employs over 800 veterans: U.S. Marine Corps Veteran and Founder and CEO Casey Holiday, and U.S. Army Veteran and VP of Military Strategic Partnerships Robert Cox.   In a candid conversation with hosts Lindsey Pollak and Mike Abrams, Casey shares how he went from feeling lost after transitioning out of active-duty service to founding a premiere live event security company that aims to improve the lives of veterans. Casey also provides actionable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and invaluable lessons learned from his personal experience.   Rob shares the challenges he faced finding his way in the civilian workforce and provides empowering advice for fellow service members preparing to make their own military transitions.  With personal stories military members can relate to and helpful guidance throughout the conversation, this episode is a must-listen for veterans and entrepreneurs alike.    Founded in 2016, Battle Tested Security is a service-disabled, veteran-owned small business committed to employing as many veterans as possible.  Casey is a visionary entrepreneur and leader in the event security industry. Born and raised in Greenville, South Carolina and outside of Baltimore, Maryland, Casey honed his discipline and leadership skills as a United States Marine Corps veteran. With a distinguished career as an 0311 in 1st Battalion 8th Marines, Casey served two deployments in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.   Since transitioning out of the military, Casey has established several successful companies and currently serves as the CEO of Battle Tested Security.   Casey is continuously seeking new challenges and opportunities to serve and empower veterans. He is currently in the process of creating his latest venture, BTG Development Group, a company dedicated to providing effective workforce placement, entrepreneur development, and benefit support to our nation's veterans.  Rob has more than 11 years of experience in the U.S. Army and two years as Battle Tested Security’s VP of Military Strategic Partnerships.   As a Certified Mindfulness Instructor and the Founder/CEO of InsightFoolish.com, Rob is also dedicated to helping people improve their mental and emotional wellbeing through customized meditation practices. He is always looking for opportunities to grow and make a positive impact in his community and beyond.    ABOUT US Welcome to the FourBlock Podcast, a show that examines veteran career transition and the military-civilian divide in the workplace. General Charles Krulak coined the term "Three Block War" to describe the nature of 21st-century military service defined by peace-keeping, humanitarian aid, and full combat. But what happens next? Veterans are often unprepared to return home and begin new careers. We call this the Fourth Block.  FourBlock is a national non-profit that has supported thousands of transitioning service members across the nation in beginning new and meaningful careers.  Mike Abrams (@fourblock) is an Afghanistan veteran, founder of FourBlock, and author of two military transition books. He represents the military transition perspective. Lindsey Pollak (@lindsaypollak) is a career and workplace expert and New York Times bestselling author of three career advice books. Lindsey represents the civilian perspective of this issue.  Veterans, explore new industries and make the right connections. Find a career that fits your calling. Join us at fourblock.org/ Sponsor our program or host a class to equip more of our veterans at fourblock.org/donate. Follow FourBlock on Social Media  LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Twitter Podcast episodes are produced and edited in part by the Columbia University Center for Veteran Transition and Integra

    32 min

  4. 10/02/2023

    Veteran LRS Architect Promotes Sustainability and Training in Pacific Northwest

    This week on The FourBlock Podcast, FourBlock Founder Mike Abrams sits down with Kevin Schneider, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who went on to become an architect and now works as a Project Architect at LRS Architects, Inc. As a veteran who successfully transitioned into the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry, Kevin possesses invaluable advice for fellow veterans embarking on their own journeys into the civilian workforce. He generously shares his personal story, insights, and tips to help pave the way for others. In conversation with Mike, Kevin delves into what inspired him to join the U.S. Marine Corps and shares insights into his Marine Corps experience, highlighting the invaluable skills he gained, the challenges he faced, and how these experiences shaped the trajectory of his military transition and civilian career journey. Whether you're a veteran seeking guidance, or someone intrigued by the world of architecture, don't miss this enlightening episode as we explore Kevin’s journey from the Marines Corps to expert architect and passionate mentor. After serving in the U.S. Marines, Kevin earned his Masters in Architecture from the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee. When he's not in the office, he is usually running, camping or exploring the outdoors.    ABOUT US Welcome to the FourBlock Podcast, a show that examines veteran career transition and the military-civilian divide in the workplace. General Charles Krulak coined the term "Three Block War" to describe the nature of 21st-century military service defined by peace-keeping, humanitarian aid, and full combat. But what happens next? Veterans are often unprepared to return home and begin new careers. We call this the Fourth Block.  FourBlock is a national non-profit that has supported thousands of transitioning service members across the nation in beginning new and meaningful careers.  Mike Abrams (@fourblock) is an Afghanistan veteran, founder of FourBlock, and author of two military transition books. He represents the military transition perspective. Lindsey Pollak (@lindsaypollak) is a career and workplace expert and New York Times bestselling author of three career advice books. Lindsey represents the civilian perspective of this issue.  Veterans, explore new industries and make the right connections. Find a career that fits your calling. Join us at fourblock.org/ Sponsor our program or host a class to equip more of our veterans at fourblock.org/donate. Follow FourBlock on Social Media  LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Twitter Podcast episodes are produced and edited in part by the Columbia University Center for Veteran Transition and Integration.

    31 min

  5. 04/24/2023

    The Power of Relationships: Leadership Insights from a Military Affairs Expert

    This week on The FourBlock Podcast, we welcome USAA’s* Military Affairs Relationship Director Charles “Chuck” Bunch, a 20+ year retired U.S. Air Force veteran who works alongside fellow retired officers and senior noncommissioned officers on USAA’s Military Affairs team to advocate for those who are currently serving in our military, all those who have honorably served in the past, and their families.  In conversation with FourBlock Founder Mike Abrams, Chuck shares personal stories and lessons learned from his military experience, his transition into the private sector and current role with USAA, and the relationships that helped him along the way.  USAA has been a longtime partner of FourBlock’s since 2016. Since then, USAA has hosted more than 30 sessions of FourBlock’s Veteran Career Readiness Program in support of transitioning service members across the country. In 2022 alone, USAA supported more than 250 veterans across five FourBlock program locations. As the Military Affairs Relationship Director for Veteran Engagement, Chuck leverages his military relationships to provide advocacy for military families and shepherds USAA’s VETNet Employee Resource Group (ERG) for the enterprise.   Prior to joining USAA, Chuck served as the Pathfinder Program Site Manager for USO San Antonio. Chuck’s leadership resulted in the successful design, development, launch, and execution of the USO Pathfinder transition program.  Upon joining USAA in 2019, Chuck was selected by the San Antonio Business Journal as an honoree of the inaugural Veteran in Business Awards. This award reflected his community leadership and honored San Antonio military veteran business leaders for their impactful contributions in the workplace and their support of fellow veterans.  Through his continued devotion and passionate support for the military community, Chuck was nominated for the 2022 G.I. Jobs Employee Veteran Leadership Awards list. This exclusive list recognized employee veterans that exemplified determination, teamwork, advocacy of military hiring initiatives, devotion to mentorship, and servant leadership in their organizations and respective communities.    Chuck had the privilege of serving 20 years in the USAF. His military decorations include the Bronze Star Medal and Meritorious Service Medal.  Chuck holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Wayland Baptist University and a Master’s in Business Administration from Webster University. Chuck is married to his lovely wife Kriesti, and they enjoy spending time with their son, Jered and daughter-in-law, Haley.     *USAA is a multi-city sponsor of FourBlock’s Veteran Career Readiness Program.      ABOUT US Welcome to the FourBlock Podcast, a show that examines veteran career transition and the military-civilian divide in the workplace. General Charles Krulak coined the term "Three Block War" to describe the nature of 21st-century military service defined by peace-keeping, humanitarian aid, and full combat. But what happens next? Veterans are often unprepared to return home and begin new careers. We call this the Fourth Block.  FourBlock is a national non-profit that has supported thousands of transitioning service members across the nation in beginning new and meaningful careers.  Mike Abrams (@fourblock) is an Afghanistan veteran, founder of FourBlock, and author of two military transition books. He represents the military transition perspective. Lindsey Pollak (@lindsaypollak) is a career and workplace expert and New York Times bestselling author of three career advice books. Lindsey represents the civilian perspective of this issue.  Veterans, explore new industries and make the right connections. Find a career that fits your calling. Join us at fourblock.org/ Sponsor our program or host a class to equip more of our veterans at fourblock.org/donate. Follow FourBlock on Social Media  LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Twitter Podcast episodes

    36 min

  6. 04/10/2023

    The Stoic Transition: How Veterans Can Thrive in their Next Adventure

    If you are in the military entering the civilian world or are you a veteran who has transitioned already but still struggling to find your path, this episode is a must-listen.     This week, we welcome author and Founder of Mission Edge Ken Davenport. In conversation with hosts Lindsey Pollak and Mike Abrams, Ken shares how his passion for helping people achieve greatness in their lives led him to starting a social enterprise to help nonprofits and small businesses grow and devoting much of his time to helping military veterans transition to the civilian world.     Most recently the author of "The Stoic Transition: A Guide" to help veterans live their best lives after the military, Ken details how his early life led him to discover the concept of stoicism and how it can help veterans embrace their power to thrive in their next adventures.     Ken Davenport is an entrepreneur and writer based in San Diego, California. Ken’s built multiple businesses, lived in Switzerland as a kid, did his graduate work in London, spent a nomadic year in Tokyo, where he learned Japanese (or tried), and now spends much of his free time helping military veterans transition to the civilian world. A former Board member at the Travis Manion Foundation, Ken helped bring FourBlock to San Diego and also teaches Boots to Business at the Institute for Veterans and Military Families at Syracuse University.     ABOUT US Welcome to the FourBlock Podcast, a show that examines veteran career transition and the military-civilian divide in the workplace. General Charles Krulak coined the term "Three Block War" to describe the nature of 21st-century military service defined by peace-keeping, humanitarian aid, and full combat. But what happens next? Veterans are often unprepared to return home and begin new careers. We call this the Fourth Block.  FourBlock is a national non-profit that has supported thousands of transitioning service members across the nation in beginning new and meaningful careers.  Mike Abrams (@fourblock) is an Afghanistan veteran, founder of FourBlock, and author of two military transition books. He represents the military transition perspective. Lindsey Pollak (@lindsaypollak) is a career and workplace expert and New York Times bestselling author of three career advice books. Lindsey represents the civilian perspective of this issue.  Veterans, explore new industries and make the right connections. Find a career that fits your calling. Join us at fourblock.org/ Sponsor our program or host a class to equip more of our veterans at fourblock.org/donate. Follow FourBlock on Social Media  LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Twitter Podcast episodes are produced and edited in part by the Columbia University Center for Veteran Transition and Integration.

    31 min

  7. 03/27/2023

    Air Force Veteran Allison Kruse Discusses Her Legal Career and the Importance of Giving Back

    "I want to give back to the community that gave me so much."     This week on the FourBlock Podcast, we are honored to be joined by Labor and Employment attorney Allison Kruse, a U.S. Air Force veteran and current associate at Stinson LLP, who serves as the chair of the firm's Veterans Employee Resource Group (ERG).     In conversation with FourBlock Founder Mike Abrams, Allison shares what first inspired her to attend the Air Force Academy and join the military and details her experience transitioning from the Air Force into law school and then the private sector.    Allison delves into her unique familiarity with Federal Acquisition Regulations and how it benefits and supports her clients at Stinson. She then shares more about her participation with the firm's Veterans ERG, why she is inspired to continue giving back, how Stinson helps support and integrate veterans within the law firm, and her advice for veterans transitioning into the civilian workforce.    As we close out Women's History Month, Allison also shares some of the women veterans and leaders who inspired her in her career and influenced her professional values, as well as words of wisdom for young women starting their journey in the military or transitioning out.     Allison is an associate at Stinson LLP, a law firm with 450 attorneys and 12 offices nationwide. She primarily focuses on employment related matters and navigating various facets of employment relationships. She handles each case with precision and integrity, working diligently to deliver results that take her clients to new heights.    Before attending law school, Allison was a Contracting Officer in the U.S. Air Force. Her prior experience in leadership roles enables her to relate quickly with clients and solve complex issues. Allison has received multiple awards and recognitions for her outstanding service while serving.    ABOUT US Welcome to the FourBlock Podcast, a show that examines veteran career transition and the military-civilian divide in the workplace. General Charles Krulak coined the term "Three Block War" to describe the nature of 21st-century military service defined by peace-keeping, humanitarian aid, and full combat. But what happens next? Veterans are often unprepared to return home and begin new careers. We call this the Fourth Block.  FourBlock is a national non-profit that has supported thousands of transitioning service members across the nation in beginning new and meaningful careers.  Mike Abrams (@fourblock) is an Afghanistan veteran, founder of FourBlock, and author of two military transition books. He represents the military transition perspective. Lindsey Pollak (@lindsaypollak) is a career and workplace expert and New York Times bestselling author of three career advice books. Lindsey represents the civilian perspective of this issue.  Veterans, explore new industries and make the right connections. Find a career that fits your calling. Join us at fourblock.org/ Sponsor our program or host a class to equip more of our veterans at fourblock.org/donate. Follow FourBlock on Social Media  LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Twitter Podcast episodes are produced and edited in part by the Columbia University Center for Veteran Transition and Integration.

    27 min

  8. 03/13/2023

    Actionable Advice for Transitioning Into the IT & Cyber Industry

    This week on the FourBlock Podcast, we welcome U.S. Army Veteran and Senior Program Manager at General Dynamics Information Technology (GDIT)* Gregory (Greg) Doubek. In conversation with FourBlock Founder Mike Abrams, Greg shares why he was called to serve and decided to join the Army, his personal military transition story, and some of the advice he received and lessons learned along the way. Greg also raises an important point for those in transition about taking the uniform all the way off and provides guidance on how veterans can adjust to their changing role in the civilian workforce and add value regardless of the type or level of work. In addition to his role as Senior Program Manager at GDIT, Greg serves as the co-lead for GDIT’s Veteran Employee Resource Group (Honor ERG), and he provides details about the company’s commitment to supporting transitioning military, veterans, and their families through its military hiring program and Honor ERG. He also shares actionable advice for getting started in the IT and Cyber world, whether you have experience in that field or you’re transitioning fields entirely. Greg was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the US Army in 1991. He has a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Art from the University of Vermont, and a Master's of Science in Telecommunications from the University of Colorado at Boulder. Following his 26 years of service as a US Army Signal Officer, Greg joined the General Dynamics Information Technology Team and is currently a Senior Program Manager, managing two Multiple Award Task Order Contracts with a contract ceiling totaling over $25B.  If you are close to your transition from the military, Greg would welcome a connection via LinkedIn to talk about transition and career goals. Connect with Greg on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregdoubek/.      *GDIT is a sponsor of FourBlock’s Veteran Career Readiness Program.    ABOUT US Welcome to the FourBlock Podcast, a show that examines veteran career transition and the military-civilian divide in the workplace. General Charles Krulak coined the term "Three Block War" to describe the nature of 21st-century military service defined by peace-keeping, humanitarian aid, and full combat. But what happens next? Veterans are often unprepared to return home and begin new careers. We call this the Fourth Block.  FourBlock is a national non-profit that has supported thousands of transitioning service members across the nation in beginning new and meaningful careers.  Mike Abrams (@fourblock) is an Afghanistan veteran, founder of FourBlock, and author of two military transition books. He represents the military transition perspective. Lindsey Pollak (@lindsaypollak) is a career and workplace expert and New York Times bestselling author of three career advice books. Lindsey represents the civilian perspective of this issue.  Veterans, explore new industries and make the right connections. Find a career that fits your calling. Join us at fourblock.org/ Sponsor our program or host a class to equip more of our veterans at fourblock.org/donate. Follow FourBlock on Social Media  LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Twitter Podcast episodes are produced and edited in part by the Columbia University Center for Veteran Transition and Integration.

    30 min
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Welcome to the FourBlock Podcast, a show that examines veteran career transition and the military-civilian divide in the workplace. General Charles Krulak coined the term "Three Block War" to describe the nature of 21st-century military service defined by peace-keeping, humanitarian aid, and full combat. But what happens next? Veterans are often unprepared to return home and begin new careers. We call this the Fourth Block. FourBlock is a national non-profit that has supported thousands of transitioning service members across the nation in beginning new and meaningful careers. Mike Abrams is an Afghanistan veteran, the founder of FourBlock, and author of two military transition books. He’ll be representing the military transition perspective. Lindsey Pollak is a career and workplace expert and New York Times bestselling author of three career advice books. Lindsey will be representing the civilian perspective of this issue. Podcast episodes are produced and edited by the Columbia University Center for Veteran Transition and Integration.

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