Send us Fan Mail

Welcome to Episode 25 of the Military to Civilian Career Transition Power Hour. Cheryl interviews four amazing guests who offer valuable insights into entrepreneurship, legal considerations, and career transitions:

Kofi Douhadji - A First Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force and founder of Flying Wings, a hybrid publishing company. Kofi emphasizes that with the right tools and guidance, you can publish a book that stands shoulder to shoulder with those from traditional publishing houses. Learn more at flyingwings.llc.

Gordon Firemark - An attorney specializing in new media, entertainment, and intellectual property law. Gordon shares the importance of a solid business structure, understanding IP rights, and monetization challenges. He encourages creators to "start ugly, start dirty, and polish things as you go," and believes "good contracts make better business partners." Learn more at firemark.com.

Leah Stiles - A retired Senior Chief from the U.S. Navy and founder of Sea-Waves.org, a nonprofit supporting individuals with eating disorders. Leah discusses the challenges of transitioning from military to civilian life and the importance of mentorship and support. "Life isn't meant to be experienced alone."

Mark Harper - A former Air Force combat camera officer and Emmy-winning digital producer. Mark talks about his transition, networking, and his work with Recurrent Ventures and the Military Influencer Conference (MIC). He highlights the power of storytelling and owning your veteran status to bridge the gap between military and civilian worlds. Learn more about MIC at militaryinfluencer.com.

Support the show

X CHANGE Podcast Series will showcase future podcasts on exciting topics. You're listening to our inaugural series, The Military to Civilian Career Transition Power Hour; your boot camp for conquering civilian terrain.

Join Us: Hear from those on the journey, those who've completed it, and those still transitioning. The civilian career landscape doesn't need to be a minefield. We provide support to keep you moving forward.

Our Goal: Empower you with insights from 100 voices, across 25+ impactful episodes. With three guests and one expert per hour, you'll gain actionable guidance for your civilian career journey.

Support our show with a subscription through BuzzSprout ($4 a month), you not only empower us, but you support reaching a new audience. For only $3.85 a month, you will be in a unique community of 'helpers' and 'learners' who are bringing these important voices to the podcast airwaves

Like and Subscribe on YouTube (Videos): https://www.youtube.com/@XChangePodcastSeries
Follow our Audio Only Podcast: https://mil2civ.buzzsprout.com/
Book: CIVILIAN MISSION #1 New Release on Amazon 5 Days After Launch: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CN699ZLX
Website: www.xchangepodcast.com

Your next mission awaits!

Send us a text

In Episode 24, we explore the inspiring journeys of four veterans transitioning to civilian life:

• SOUP Segment: Charles Williams, Air Force veteran, on transitioning from meteorology and broadcasting to music and podcasting. Charles shares his top show about flat earth and the importance of preparing for a smoother transition.
• Expert Segment: Jay Koranda, Navy veteran and recruiter at Orion Talent, on the importance of long-term career goals and starting the transition process early. Jay emphasizes the abundance of employers seeking military talent and encourages confidence in the transition process.
• 1-4 Year Vet Segment: Dr. Jonathan Lu, retired Army Green Beret and now working post-doctorate with a university, on leveraging self-preparation and mentorship in his transition from military to civilian academia. Jonathan's story highlights the significance of embracing new opportunities during his time as a medic and the education challenges he encountered, navigated and overcame.
• 5+ Year Vet Segment: Carmen White, former Air Force personnel manager turned career coach, on the importance of networking and available resources for transitioning service members. Carmen emphasizes staying connected with industry contacts and the value of mentors and coaches.

Join us for insights and inspiration on how military discipline can drive personal development and career success!

If you or someone you know would like to be a guest on the Military to Civilian Career Transition Power Hour, let us know. Go to www.xchangepodcast.com and click connect. A producer will read your request and get back to you. Thanks for your support!

Learn more about host, Cheryl Cross and her book, "CIVILIAN MISSION: The 3-Year Guide for Military Professionals Planning Civilian Careers" available for order online.

Support the show

X CHANGE Podcast Series will showcase future podcasts on exciting topics. You're listening to our inaugural series, The Military to Civilian Career Transition Power Hour; your boot camp for conquering civilian terrain.

Join Us: Hear from those on the journey, those who've completed it, and those still transitioning. The civilian career landscape doesn't need to be a minefield. We provide support to keep you moving forward.

Our Goal: Empower you with insights from 100 voices, across 25+ impactful episodes. With three guests and one expert per hour, you'll gain actionable guidance for your civilian career journey.

Support our show with a subscription through BuzzSprout ($4 a month), you not only empower us, but you support reaching a new audience. For only $3.85 a month, you will be in a unique community of 'helpers' and 'learners' who are bringing these important voices to the podcast airwaves

Like and Subscribe on YouTube (Videos): https://www.youtube.com/@XChangePodcastSeries
Follow our Audio Only Podcast: https://mil2civ.buzzsprout.com/
Book: CIVILIAN MISSION #1 New Release on Amazon 5 Days After Launch: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CN699ZLX
Website: www.xchangepodcast.com

Your next mission awaits!

Send us a Text Message.

Welcome to our 23rd episode, "Commanding Your Future", featuring Matt Benko, Kevin Seiff, Irene Glaeser, and Bill Kieffer.

SOUP Segment: Matt Benko discusses his transition from the Air National Guard to podcasting, emphasizing "the constant state of transition and adjustment" and the impact of psychological strategies on readjustment.

Expert Segment: Bill Kieffer, a talent management expert, emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, negotiation, and understanding employer needs, highlighting that "self-awareness is crucial in career transition" and "negotiating is essential, not just for salary, but for promotions, locations, and leveraging career opportunities." He talks about his non profit and his two books, "Military Career Transition" and "Veteran Career Journey".

1-4 Year Vet Segment: Kevin Seiff, co-producer of the "Harder Not Smarter" podcast, shares his entrepreneurial journey in co-creating the Vet Collective, and highlights "the three options for entrepreneurship: borrowing, building, and buying." He encourages listeners to "try something that scares you and start a business on the side."

5+ Year Vet Segment: Irene Glaeser, a retired Army colonel, discusses her transition, her book "Choose Your Battles," and the importance of "exploring different choices and opportunities beyond traditional career paths." She emphasizes the value of "resilience, gratitude, and a positive mindset in overcoming challenges."

Each story is unique and inspiring. Tune in to explore the power of military discipline in personal development!

Support the Show.

X CHANGE Podcast Series will showcase future podcasts on exciting topics. You're listening to our inaugural series, The Military to Civilian Career Transition Power Hour; your boot camp for conquering civilian terrain.

Join Us: Hear from those on the journey, those who've completed it, and those still transitioning. The civilian career landscape doesn't need to be a minefield. We provide support to keep you moving forward.

Our Goal: Empower you with insights from 100 voices, across 25+ impactful episodes. With three guests and one expert per hour, you'll gain actionable guidance for your civilian career journey.

Support our show with a subscription through BuzzSprout ($4 a month), you not only empower us, but you support reaching a new audience. For only $3.85 a month, you will be in a unique community of 'helpers' and 'learners' who are bringing these important voices to the podcast airwaves

Like and Subscribe on YouTube (Videos): https://www.youtube.com/@XChangePodcastSeries
Follow our Audio Only Podcast: https://mil2civ.buzzsprout.com/
Book: CIVILIAN MISSION #1 New Release on Amazon 5 Days After Launch: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CN699ZLX
Website: www.xchangepodcast.com

Your next mission awaits!

Send us a text

Welcome to our latest episode where we dive deep into the unique challenges and triumphs faced by veterans transitioning to civilian life.

The SOUP segment, John McGlothlin - A dual transitioner, John discusses upcoming transition, having already made the journey from military to civilian life A few key takeaways: Transitioning can be challenging but easier with prior experience. The military teaches useful lessons not often found in movies. Writing a book can open opportunities for sharing knowledge and mentoring others, and can be a lot of fun. "How to Deal with Damn Near Anything: The Paratrooper's Guide to Life"

Expert, Gabrielle Bosché - Co-Founder of The Purpose Company, Gabrielle highlights how she helps clients find purpose in their career. She discusses how clarity, impact, and storytelling can drive motivation and fulfillment. Gabrielle also shares a free step-by-step guide to discovering your purpose and invites listeners to connect with her on LinkedIn and check out her book, "The Purpose Factor". Text "Purpose" to 33777 for a free guide.

Tyler Schmoker - Former active duty Army and National Guardsman, and now, founder of Winsly, Tyler shares his career transition story from the military to the private sector and entrepreneurship. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the business side of the military, developing new skills, balancing work and hobbies, and navigating office politics. His best advice? Stay capable.

Chris Morga - A Navy veteran and expert in talent acquisition and career coaching, Chris shares his career long journey and how being laid-off and temporarily without a home, inspired him to create the Career Insurance Plan community. Chris also has a podcast called, "The Bridge".

Join us

If you or someone you know would like to be a guest on the Military to Civilian Career Transition Power Hour, let us know. Go to www.xchangepodcast.com and click connect. A producer will read your request and get back to you. Thanks for your support!

Learn more about host, Cheryl Cross and her book, "CIVILIAN MISSION: The 3-Year Guide for Military Professionals Planning Civilian Careers" available for order online.

Support the show

X CHANGE Podcast Series will showcase future podcasts on exciting topics. You're listening to our inaugural series, The Military to Civilian Career Transition Power Hour; your boot camp for conquering civilian terrain.

Join Us: Hear from those on the journey, those who've completed it, and those still transitioning. The civilian career landscape doesn't need to be a minefield. We provide support to keep you moving forward.

Our Goal: Empower you with insights from 100 voices, across 25+ impactful episodes. With three guests and one expert per hour, you'll gain actionable guidance for your civilian career journey.

Support our show with a subscription through BuzzSprout ($4 a month), you not only empower us, but you support reaching a new audience. For only $3.85 a month, you will be in a unique community of 'helpers' and 'learners' who are bringing these important voices to the podcast airwaves

Like and Subscribe on YouTube (Videos): https://www.youtube.com/@XChangePodcastSeries
Follow our Audio Only Podcast: https://mil2civ.buzzsprout.com/
Book: CIVILIAN MISSION #1 New Release on Amazon 5 Days After Launch: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CN699ZLX
Website: www.xchangepodcast.com

Your next mission awaits!

Send a text

In Episode 21 of the Military to Civilian Career Transition Power Hour, we delve deep into the heart of veterans' transitions, featuring personal narratives that capture the essence of moving from military to civilian life. This episode provides a panoramic view of the journey through the voices of veterans at various stages post-service.

Guests & Segments:

Macey Nelson is in the SOUP segment, as a transitioning Air Force service member, Macey has used her last 8 years to obtain her masters degree in data science and is completing her Skillbridge program with Allegiant Vets. She is poised and ready to take on her next career, and has a few pointers for those who are facing the tricky transition. One is music and a 'transition playlist'.

We call him "Hendo" in the recruiting world, our episode Expert segment features Justin "Hendo" Henderson, a Marine veteran, recruiting expert and now, CEO of Veteran Hiring Solutions. Having been in the industry for 20+ years, Hendo shares excellent transition advice. Find out more at www.veteranhiringsolutions.com

Our 1-4 year veteran segment features Riccoh Player, Emmy Award Winner and Retired Colonel from the US Marine Corps who jumped head-first into his transition to create ParadeDeck.com, a space for military influencers and podcasters who are making a difference. Riccoh uses his 20+ years of military leadership, public affairs, training and desire to connect people in impactful ways.

Army Reservist, and combat veteran Ryan Smithson wraps up the 5+ year veteran segment. Having written a best selling book about his experience in combat, he has watched his story evolve from page to stage. Now an artist and leading district sales pro, Ryan is offering insights about art, writing, and creativity.

Support the show

X CHANGE Podcast Series will showcase future podcasts on exciting topics. You're listening to our inaugural series, The Military to Civilian Career Transition Power Hour; your boot camp for conquering civilian terrain.

Join Us: Hear from those on the journey, those who've completed it, and those still transitioning. The civilian career landscape doesn't need to be a minefield. We provide support to keep you moving forward.

Our Goal: Empower you with insights from 100 voices, across 25+ impactful episodes. With three guests and one expert per hour, you'll gain actionable guidance for your civilian career journey.

Support our show with a subscription through BuzzSprout ($4 a month), you not only empower us, but you support reaching a new audience. For only $3.85 a month, you will be in a unique community of 'helpers' and 'learners' who are bringing these important voices to the podcast airwaves

Like and Subscribe on YouTube (Videos): https://www.youtube.com/@XChangePodcastSeries
Follow our Audio Only Podcast: https://mil2civ.buzzsprout.com/
Book: CIVILIAN MISSION #1 New Release on Amazon 5 Days After Launch: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CN699ZLX
Website: www.xchangepodcast.com

Your next mission awaits!

Send us Fan Mail

🎙️ Episode 20 of the Military to Civilian Career Transition Power Hour, we go "In the Soup" with US Marine, Fabian Jimenez, have a short chat with expert, "The Job Chick" Amanda Goodall, and check in with veterans Daniel Bryan and Jeremy Rowley who share their civilian transition stories.

• Fabian Jimenez unveils his transition strategies and an upcoming Skillbridge opportunity with Allegiant Vets as he shifts from Marine Corps intelligence to data analytics.
• Amanda Goodall offers expert tips on crafting executive resumes and negotiating fair salaries, essential for translating military roles into civilian job success. More at https://thejobchick.com/.
• Ret US Army Veteran, Daniel Bryan discusses overcoming initial challenges and toxic work settings to thrive in business development supporting the important missions of the DOD.
• Former US Marine, Jeremy Rowley emphasizes the importance of embracing individuality, getting a higher education and learning new cultures and leveraging veteran skills and community in the tech industry post-military.

Tune in for a dose of inspiration and practical advice on civilian career reinvention. 🌟

Support the show

X CHANGE Podcast Series will showcase future podcasts on exciting topics. You're listening to our inaugural series, The Military to Civilian Career Transition Power Hour; your boot camp for conquering civilian terrain.

Join Us: Hear from those on the journey, those who've completed it, and those still transitioning. The civilian career landscape doesn't need to be a minefield. We provide support to keep you moving forward.

Our Goal: Empower you with insights from 100 voices, across 25+ impactful episodes. With three guests and one expert per hour, you'll gain actionable guidance for your civilian career journey.

Support our show with a subscription through BuzzSprout ($4 a month), you not only empower us, but you support reaching a new audience. For only $3.85 a month, you will be in a unique community of 'helpers' and 'learners' who are bringing these important voices to the podcast airwaves

Like and Subscribe on YouTube (Videos): https://www.youtube.com/@XChangePodcastSeries
Follow our Audio Only Podcast: https://mil2civ.buzzsprout.com/
Book: CIVILIAN MISSION #1 New Release on Amazon 5 Days After Launch: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CN699ZLX
Website: www.xchangepodcast.com

Your next mission awaits!

Send us Fan Mail

Welcome to Episode 19 of the Military to Civilian Career Transition Power Hour, where we delve into the diverse experiences of veterans transitioning to civilian careers. This episode features insightful conversations with veterans at various stages of their civilian life.

Guests & Segments:

• Rhiannon Gonzalez (SOUP segment): Shares her upcoming transition from nearly three decades of military service, focusing on upcoming plans to teach resilience to teens and parents.
• Wendi Wray (Expert segment): An ARMY veteran and now, career transition coach and podcast host of "Beyond the Military" Podcast, discusses how she works with clients to really understand WHO they are before they learn WHAT they want to do post-military. www.wendiwray.com is her website.
• Hope Skibitsky (1-4 year veteran segment): Reflects on her first year out of the Air Force and her adjustment to civilian life after 20+ years. She also discusses the difficulties and the challenges of transition and seeking employment.
• Joe Palacios Jr (5+ year veteran segment): An orbital off-leash dog trainer turned soap maker has taken a few roads to get where he is today, but he continues to give back through The Veterans Club Podcast and guest slots like this one. He talks about how he leveraged his military discipline into his entrepreneurial ventures and later, community work. https://www.maxwellssoap.com/

Tune in to gain valuable insights and inspiration from their stories. 🌟

Support the show

X CHANGE Podcast Series will showcase future podcasts on exciting topics. You're listening to our inaugural series, The Military to Civilian Career Transition Power Hour; your boot camp for conquering civilian terrain.

Join Us: Hear from those on the journey, those who've completed it, and those still transitioning. The civilian career landscape doesn't need to be a minefield. We provide support to keep you moving forward.

Our Goal: Empower you with insights from 100 voices, across 25+ impactful episodes. With three guests and one expert per hour, you'll gain actionable guidance for your civilian career journey.

Support our show with a subscription through BuzzSprout ($4 a month), you not only empower us, but you support reaching a new audience. For only $3.85 a month, you will be in a unique community of 'helpers' and 'learners' who are bringing these important voices to the podcast airwaves

Like and Subscribe on YouTube (Videos): https://www.youtube.com/@XChangePodcastSeries
Follow our Audio Only Podcast: https://mil2civ.buzzsprout.com/
Book: CIVILIAN MISSION #1 New Release on Amazon 5 Days After Launch: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CN699ZLX
Website: www.xchangepodcast.com

Your next mission awaits!

Send us a text

In Episode 18 of the Military to Civilian Career Transition Power Hour, we delve into the experiences of three Marine veterans who have successfully translated the rigor and discipline of military service into thriving civilian careers and we feature one transitioning Air Force servicemember who is just starting her job search.

For our SOUP segment, transitioning servicemember and HR Administrator, Kristen Cropp shares her journey from serving 20 years in the United States Air Force to her current deployment in Germany . Now part of a SkillBridge program through Allegiant Vets, she is focusing on her human resources training to find a job in the US. Kristen reflects on the fear, the hope and the opportunities that face her as she navigates her last duty station OCONUS.

Our expert segment features Sandra Gonzalez, a Marine Corps veteran turned executive coach and vetrepreneur advocate who discusses how she helps clients transition from structured military life to the autonomy of corporate careers and entrepreneurship. Sandra provides actionable advice on overcoming self-doubt and leveraging military precision for business success. Learn more about Sandra at www.sandragonzalez.com

In our 1-4 year veteran segment, former Marine, Justin Griffis recounts his transition during back to the US from Okinawa Japan during the onset of COVID-19 and his subsequent career growth as a project manager and sales professional. Justin emphasizes the value of education and adaptability, and is grateful to the opportunities in a new state. He shares how the Hiring Our Heroes program and continuous learning shaped his career trajectory.

Completing our episode, our 5+ year veteran segment welcomes sales training expert, Donnie Boivin,

If you or someone you know would like to be a guest on the Military to Civilian Career Transition Power Hour, let us know. Go to www.xchangepodcast.com and click connect. A producer will read your request and get back to you. Thanks for your support!

Learn more about host, Cheryl Cross and her book, "CIVILIAN MISSION: The 3-Year Guide for Military Professionals Planning Civilian Careers" available for order online.

Support the show

X CHANGE Podcast Series will showcase future podcasts on exciting topics. You're listening to our inaugural series, The Military to Civilian Career Transition Power Hour; your boot camp for conquering civilian terrain.

Join Us: Hear from those on the journey, those who've completed it, and those still transitioning. The civilian career landscape doesn't need to be a minefield. We provide support to keep you moving forward.

Our Goal: Empower you with insights from 100 voices, across 25+ impactful episodes. With three guests and one expert per hour, you'll gain actionable guidance for your civilian career journey.

Support our show with a subscription through BuzzSprout ($4 a month), you not only empower us, but you support reaching a new audience. For only $3.85 a month, you will be in a unique community of 'helpers' and 'learners' who are bringing these important voices to the podcast airwaves

Like and Subscribe on YouTube (Videos): https://www.youtube.com/@XChangePodcastSeries
Follow our Audio Only Podcast: https://mil2civ.buzzsprout.com/
Book: CIVILIAN MISSION #1 New Release on Amazon 5 Days After Launch: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CN699ZLX
Website: www.xchangepodcast.com

Your next mission awaits!