Tactical Transition

PTSD After Service: Breaking the Silence with Chad Baker In this deeply honest and important episode of The Tactical Transition Podcast, we sit down with Chad Baker to talk about one of the most difficult realities many veterans face after service: living and working through PTSD. Chad shares an unfiltered look at what PTSD can feel like long after the uniform comes off, from anxiety and hypervigilance to brain fog, sleep disruption, medication side effects, and the silent pressure of trying to perform at a high level while carrying invisible wounds. He speaks candidly about the emotional toll of transition, the loss of mission, and the internal battle many veterans fight behind the scenes each day. This conversation is raw, real, and incredibly necessary for veterans, military families, leaders, and employers who want to better understand the unseen side of transition. Sensitive Content Notice This episode includes a detailed discussion of PTSD, combat memories, anxiety, trauma responses, and mental health struggles after military service. Listener discretion is advised, especially for those currently navigating similar experiences. If this episode brings something up for you, please reach out to a trusted friend, licensed mental health professional, or the Veterans Crisis Line (Dial 988, then Press 1). In this episode, the hidden reality of PTSD in civilian leadership roles, why transition can intensify unresolved trauma, brain fog, self-doubt, and workplace performance, the pressure to “look fine” while struggling internally, rebuilding purpose and identity after service, and why honest conversations save lives Connect with Chad Baker on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chad-baker-074725137/  Resources: For the Love of a Veteran: https://www.fortheloveofaveteran.org/ Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988, Press 1 374 Consultants Community: 374Consultants.com

Hello everyone, and welcome to this special edition of the Tactical Transition Podcast! Join hosts Michele Lewis and Cyndi Po as they celebrate the 2 a.m. launch of their new book, "un-TAP'ed; A guide to faith, family, and life after the military.” This episode delves into the critical, often overlooked aspects of military transition that the book addresses, featuring powerful insights from guests Jason Schermerhorn, Trent Clark, and John Perez. Key Discussion Points and Insights from “un-Tap’ed” Addressing the Emotional Gap: The book was written because the hosts recognized that while programs like TAP (Transition Assistance Program) cover résumés, interviews, and networking, there is "so much more to this military transition than just getting another job. It's such a life change.” Michele noted that transition is an emotional process involving "hanging up a uniform that you have taken great pride in." The 2 A.M. Friend: The special 2 a.m. launch time is in honor of the "2 a.m. friend". The book was expedited after Cyndi and Michele experienced the loss of a close friend, a senior leader Marine, to suicide. This tragic event spurred the hosts to realize, "we’ve got to talk about... the impact of transition and we’ve got to say the word suicide.” The 2 a.m. phone call symbolizes when a person is in a dark place and needs someone to answer the phone. As John Perez remarked: "I've never gotten a good phone call at 2 a.m. So, all the more reason you got to be there and answer the phone.” Faith and Authenticity: The hosts thoughtfully decided to include faith because it felt "inauthentic" not to. Michele emphasized: "It's a book about transition that happens to be written by Christians. It's not a book about Christians written by folks who just want to talk about transitioning". This inclusion aims to remind service members of their value, which goes beyond the uniform, rank, or hat. Impact on the Military Family: Transition is a change for everyone—the service member, their spouse, children, and community. The hosts use exercises in their seminars to initiate necessary conversations between the service member and their "teammate" regarding priorities like CLAMS (Challenge, Location, Advancement, Money, Security) in a new job. Managing Expectations and Stress: Transition is often "heavy," but "heavy isn't always bad." The book addresses the stress and anxiety inherent in the process. Jason noted that setting expectations that "everything's going to be great" does "nobody a service" because setbacks are inevitable, and it may take a while to find the perfect job. Redefining Self and Community: Trent offered powerful advice, urging transitioning members to remember: "you were never just the rank you were, never just a tab, you were never just the MOS... transition isn't about proving that you still matter. It's about deciding where you want that impact to land next.” Building a New Team: The goal of the program and the book is to develop vested relationships, not just end after a class. Cyndi emphasized that "transition is a team sport." Trent advised building a team—including individuals who "don't even know they're your team"—to lower stress levels. Michele urged listeners: "don't be afraid to call at 2 a.m." The Deeper Mission: Michele shared that the 2 a.m. launch coincided with the 10th anniversary of the exact time her son was killed, underscoring that loss and longing can persist, but there is "more to do" as contributors to family and community. Funding Future Work: All proceeds from the book will go toward funding classes that Cyndi and Michele conduct for the SOF community. Order your copy of “un-TAP’ed” 

Hello everyone, and welcome to this special edition of the Tactical Transition Podcast! Join hosts Michele Lewis and Cyndi Po as they celebrate the 2 a.m. launch of their new book, "un-TAP'ed; A guide to faith, family, and life after the military.” This episode delves into the critical, often overlooked aspects of military transition that the book addresses, featuring powerful insights from guests Jason Schermerhorn, Trent Clark, and John Perez. Key Discussion Points and Insights from “un-Tap’ed” Addressing the Emotional Gap: The book was written because the hosts recognized that while programs like TAP (Transition Assistance Program) cover résumés, interviews, and networking, there is "so much more to this military transition than just getting another job. It's such a life change.” Michele noted that transition is an emotional process involving "hanging up a uniform that you have taken great pride in." The 2 A.M. Friend: The special 2 a.m. launch time is in honor of the "2 a.m. friend". The book was expedited after Cyndi and Michele experienced the loss of a close friend, a senior leader Marine, to suicide. This tragic event spurred the hosts to realize, "we’ve got to talk about... the impact of transition and we’ve got to say the word suicide.” The 2 a.m. phone call symbolizes when a person is in a dark place and needs someone to answer the phone. As John Perez remarked: "I've never gotten a good phone call at 2 a.m. So, all the more reason you got to be there and answer the phone.” Faith and Authenticity: The hosts thoughtfully decided to include faith because it felt "inauthentic" not to. Michele emphasized: "It's a book about transition that happens to be written by Christians. It's not a book about Christians written by folks who just want to talk about transitioning". This inclusion aims to remind service members of their value, which goes beyond the uniform, rank, or hat. Impact on the Military Family: Transition is a change for everyone—the service member, their spouse, children, and community. The hosts use exercises in their seminars to initiate necessary conversations between the service member and their "teammate" regarding priorities like CLAMS (Challenge, Location, Advancement, Money, Security) in a new job. Managing Expectations and Stress: Transition is often "heavy," but "heavy isn't always bad." The book addresses the stress and anxiety inherent in the process. Jason noted that setting expectations that "everything's going to be great" does "nobody a service" because setbacks are inevitable, and it may take a while to find the perfect job. Redefining Self and Community: Trent offered powerful advice, urging transitioning members to remember: "you were never just the rank you were, never just a tab, you were never just the MOS... transition isn't about proving that you still matter. It's about deciding where you want that impact to land next.” Building a New Team: The goal of the program and the book is to develop vested relationships, not just end after a class. Cyndi emphasized that "transition is a team sport." Trent advised building a team—including individuals who "don't even know they're your team"—to lower stress levels. Michele urged listeners: "don't be afraid to call at 2 a.m." The Deeper Mission: Michele shared that the 2 a.m. launch coincided with the 10th anniversary of the exact time her son was killed, underscoring that loss and longing can persist, but there is "more to do" as contributors to family and community. Funding Future Work: All proceeds from the book will go toward funding classes that Cyndi and Michele conduct for the SOF community. Order your copy of “un-TAP’ed” 

Welcome to this week's episode of Tactical Transition! Join your hosts, Michele Lewis and Cyndi Po, as they share a deeply personal and insightful conversation about the role of faith in their lives, their business, and its profound impact on military career transition. Key Points from This Episode: A Personal Foundation: Cyndi and Michele begin by discussing the changing seasons, likening the dormancy and growth of fall to the periods of protection and growth in life. They introduce the topic of faith, acknowledging it's a risk in business but expressing gratitude for the growing openness about it. Their goal is not to convert, but to share how their Christian faith underpins their success and intuition. Faith in Their Upcoming Book & Business: Michele and Cyndi are releasing a new book on military career transition. They emphasize it's "the experts on military career transition written by Christians, not a Christian book about military transition". Their business, 374 Consultants, is named after Psalm 37:4: "Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart". This philosophy guides them to lead with heart, service, and collaboration, not competition, always seeking to help others. They clarify that in their ESEL seminars, they do not preach. Still, their actions, resources, and trusted network are designed to alleviate the stress and anxiety of transition, helping service members with the "heavy stuff". Navigating Life's Challenges with Faith: Cyndi shares how her unwavering faith has guided her through tragedies, including the loss of her father, and financial struggles, always finding God's provision. Michele bravely discusses her experience with immense grief after losing her son, Chris. While she questioned and felt anger, her faith provided an anchor, highlighting the importance of having God to turn to, even in anger. She quotes the MercyMe song, "Bring on the Rain," with the powerful line: "How can circumstances possibly change who you are forever in me?". Michele uses the analogy of floating in dense water: when faced with overwhelming challenges, letting go and trusting God prevents drowning, allowing one to float towards greater things. The Power of Hope and Community: The hosts present a compelling statistic from the Pew Research Center (2011): Post-9/11 veterans attending religious services at least once a week have a 67% chance of having an easier time readjusting to civilian life, compared to a 43% probability for those who never attend. Michele passionately states that "Faith gives you hope. Faith gives you mission. Faith gives you integrity. Faith gives you character... Faith above everything provides hope". Cyndi adds that negative thoughts are harmful and should be countered with hope, trusting that even a "no" to a prayer means "something better" is on the way. She shares a personal anecdote of a business closure leading to new, better opportunities. Both hosts emphasize the vital importance of surrounding oneself with the right people and community—a beacon found in faith and reflected in the military family. Michele and Cyndi's heartfelt conversation underscores how their faith provides a resilient foundation, not only for their personal lives but also for their mission to support transitioning veterans. Their message encourages hope, trust, and connection as service members embark on their next adventure.

Welcome to this week's episode of Tactical Transition! Join your hosts, Michele Lewis and Cyndi Po, as they share a deeply personal and insightful conversation about the role of faith in their lives, their business, and its profound impact on military career transition. Key Points from This Episode: A Personal Foundation: Cyndi and Michele begin by discussing the changing seasons, likening the dormancy and growth of fall to the periods of protection and growth in life. They introduce the topic of faith, acknowledging it's a risk in business but expressing gratitude for the growing openness about it. Their goal is not to convert, but to share how their Christian faith underpins their success and intuition. Faith in Their Upcoming Book & Business: Michele and Cyndi are releasing a new book on military career transition. They emphasize it's "the experts on military career transition written by Christians, not a Christian book about military transition". Their business, 374 Consultants, is named after Psalm 37:4: "Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart". This philosophy guides them to lead with heart, service, and collaboration, not competition, always seeking to help others. They clarify that in their ESEL seminars, they do not preach. Still, their actions, resources, and trusted network are designed to alleviate the stress and anxiety of transition, helping service members with the "heavy stuff". Navigating Life's Challenges with Faith: Cyndi shares how her unwavering faith has guided her through tragedies, including the loss of her father, and financial struggles, always finding God's provision. Michele bravely discusses her experience with immense grief after losing her son, Chris. While she questioned and felt anger, her faith provided an anchor, highlighting the importance of having God to turn to, even in anger. She quotes the MercyMe song, "Bring on the Rain," with the powerful line: "How can circumstances possibly change who you are forever in me?". Michele uses the analogy of floating in dense water: when faced with overwhelming challenges, letting go and trusting God prevents drowning, allowing one to float towards greater things. The Power of Hope and Community: The hosts present a compelling statistic from the Pew Research Center (2011): Post-9/11 veterans attending religious services at least once a week have a 67% chance of having an easier time readjusting to civilian life, compared to a 43% probability for those who never attend. Michele passionately states that "Faith gives you hope. Faith gives you mission. Faith gives you integrity. Faith gives you character... Faith above everything provides hope". Cyndi adds that negative thoughts are harmful and should be countered with hope, trusting that even a "no" to a prayer means "something better" is on the way. She shares a personal anecdote of a business closure leading to new, better opportunities. Both hosts emphasize the vital importance of surrounding oneself with the right people and community—a beacon found in faith and reflected in the military family. Michele and Cyndi's heartfelt conversation underscores how their faith provides a resilient foundation, not only for their personal lives but also for their mission to support transitioning veterans. Their message encourages hope, trust, and connection as service members embark on their next adventure.

Welcome to an enlightening episode of Tactical Transition, where your hosts, Cyndi Po and Michele Lewis, engage in a candid conversation with TJ Baird, a recently retired U.S. Army Command Sergeant Major and former Command Senior Enlisted Leader from the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency. TJ, who served for over 30 years, brings a unique perspective on transitioning from military life to a new, passion-driven career. Here are some key takeaways from our insightful discussion with TJ Baird: A Unique Path Post-Retirement: TJ, married to Command Sergeant Major Joanne Nman and father to Veronica, made a deliberate choice not to pursue a traditional 9-to-5 job after his extensive military career. He and Joanne had decided years ago they wanted a different retirement. Founding Warrior Dad Stories: TJ established Warrior Dad Stories, a disabled veteran-owned business. Through this venture, he authored two emotionally driven illustrated books: Warrior Dad, reflecting the duality of being a warfighter and devoted father, and The Adventures of Cool Bear, a heartfelt journey inspired by deployment and his daughter's gift of a small bear. Life's Leadership Lessons: TJ also shares "Life's Leadership Lessons" on LinkedIn, drawing on his vast experience, including successes and failures. His dog, Macaroni, is a frequent and beloved subject in these posts. The "Trophy Husband": Michele and Cyndi playfully highlight TJ’s self-proclaimed status as a "trophy husband," a title he embraces with humor and dedication, focusing on cooking, cleaning, and staying in shape for his wife. Writing as Therapy and Passion: TJ has always enjoyed writing and found it "very therapeutic". He uses visual descriptions, poems, and haikus as a form of art therapy, particularly for traumatic brain injury (TBI). He encourages others to discover and pursue their passions, noting that military life often tends to overshadow personal interests. Overcoming Self-Consciousness: TJ admitted he initially kept his passion for writing private, fearing it didn't fit the "big tough warrior" persona expected in alpha-dominated military units. Cyndi emphasized that "you can still be badass and ride a haiku". Embracing the "Me" Mindset: Transitioning from a "we team mindset" to focusing on personal aspirations can be challenging for military leaders. TJ stressed the importance of having a plan and knowing what you don't want to do in retirement, highlighting his choice not to work for the government. Unexpected Realities of Retirement: TJ shared several things people don't often tell you about retirement: Profound Tiredness: After decades of service, your body and mind are "very tired". He strongly advises taking a break before starting a new job to allow for rest and reset. Loss of Benefits: Automatic TSA Pre-check is revoked upon retirement, though easily regained. Similarly, the annual fee waiver for American Express Platinum cards for active-duty military is lost. ID Card Priority Shift: His military retirement ID card places him at the bottom of priority lists, but his military dependent ID card (as a spouse) gives him "one bravo" priority for travel and services. Post-Employment Rehabilitation Evaluation Program (PREP): TJ is currently attending the VA-run PREP program in Tampa for TBI treatment. He described it as an individualized, comprehensive program (art, music, physical, and clinical therapies) that, though initially "uncomfortable" due to its intense focus on the individual, has been "amazing." He uses the word "reforged" to describe the positive transformation, emphasizing that it's a "warrior word" for polishing who you are. Fun Fact: TJ has an identical twin brother, Derek, who is still serving in the Army; they are often mistaken for one another. They are co-writing a leadership book based on vignettes from their lives. TJ's journey offers valuable insights for anyone navigating a significant life transition, emphasizing the importance of self-discovery, passion, and intentional planning.

Welcome to an enlightening episode of Tactical Transition, where your hosts, Cyndi Po and Michele Lewis, engage in a candid conversation with TJ Baird, a recently retired U.S. Army Command Sergeant Major and former Command Senior Enlisted Leader from the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency. TJ, who served for over 30 years, brings a unique perspective on transitioning from military life to a new, passion-driven career. Here are some key takeaways from our insightful discussion with TJ Baird: A Unique Path Post-Retirement: TJ, married to Command Sergeant Major Joanne Nman and father to Veronica, made a deliberate choice not to pursue a traditional 9-to-5 job after his extensive military career. He and Joanne had decided years ago they wanted a different retirement. Founding Warrior Dad Stories: TJ established Warrior Dad Stories, a disabled veteran-owned business. Through this venture, he authored two emotionally driven illustrated books: Warrior Dad, reflecting the duality of being a warfighter and devoted father, and The Adventures of Cool Bear, a heartfelt journey inspired by deployment and his daughter's gift of a small bear. Life's Leadership Lessons: TJ also shares "Life's Leadership Lessons" on LinkedIn, drawing on his vast experience, including successes and failures. His dog, Macaroni, is a frequent and beloved subject in these posts. The "Trophy Husband": Michele and Cyndi playfully highlight TJ’s self-proclaimed status as a "trophy husband," a title he embraces with humor and dedication, focusing on cooking, cleaning, and staying in shape for his wife. Writing as Therapy and Passion: TJ has always enjoyed writing and found it "very therapeutic". He uses visual descriptions, poems, and haikus as a form of art therapy, particularly for traumatic brain injury (TBI). He encourages others to discover and pursue their passions, noting that military life often tends to overshadow personal interests. Overcoming Self-Consciousness: TJ admitted he initially kept his passion for writing private, fearing it didn't fit the "big tough warrior" persona expected in alpha-dominated military units. Cyndi emphasized that "you can still be badass and ride a haiku". Embracing the "Me" Mindset: Transitioning from a "we team mindset" to focusing on personal aspirations can be challenging for military leaders. TJ stressed the importance of having a plan and knowing what you don't want to do in retirement, highlighting his choice not to work for the government. Unexpected Realities of Retirement: TJ shared several things people don't often tell you about retirement: Profound Tiredness: After decades of service, your body and mind are "very tired". He strongly advises taking a break before starting a new job to allow for rest and reset. Loss of Benefits: Automatic TSA Pre-check is revoked upon retirement, though easily regained. Similarly, the annual fee waiver for American Express Platinum cards for active-duty military is lost. ID Card Priority Shift: His military retirement ID card places him at the bottom of priority lists, but his military dependent ID card (as a spouse) gives him "one bravo" priority for travel and services. Post-Employment Rehabilitation Evaluation Program (PREP): TJ is currently attending the VA-run PREP program in Tampa for TBI treatment. He described it as an individualized, comprehensive program (art, music, physical, and clinical therapies) that, though initially "uncomfortable" due to its intense focus on the individual, has been "amazing." He uses the word "reforged" to describe the positive transformation, emphasizing that it's a "warrior word" for polishing who you are. Fun Fact: TJ has an identical twin brother, Derek, who is still serving in the Army; they are often mistaken for one another. They are co-writing a leadership book based on vignettes from their lives. TJ's journey offers valuable insights for anyone navigating a significant life transition, emphasizing the importance of self-discovery, passion, and intentional planning.

Welcome to another insightful episode of Tactical Transition! Join your hosts, Michele Lewis and Cyndi Po, as they sit down with special guest Colonel Bryan Eovito, a distinguished "soon-to-be" 32-year veteran of the US Marine Corps. Bryan shares invaluable lessons as he is transitioning from military service to a senior director role at a Virginia-based tech company, specializing in AI-enabled digital transformation. This episode is brought to you by Vet Mentor AI, a veteran-founded platform established in 2024 by Marine Corps veteran Paul Helinski. This AI-driven tool simplifies and enhances access to VA disability benefits. You can save $50 off your yearly access using the code ESELSEMINARS at vetmentorai.com. Key Takeaways from Bryan Eovito's Transition Journey: Beyond the Tactical: Bryan initially expected his transition seminar to be purely tactical (VA benefits, etc.). However, the ESL Seminars provided a more "operational, almost campaigning" approach, emphasizing networking and relationships. He realized, "this is going to be work". Networking is Everything: Bryan highlights that networking is your "most important tool". It's about building genuine, "give-give" relationships, not just "taking" to get a job. Expand Your Network: While fellow veterans are always supportive, Bryan focused on meeting people who served long ago and are now in positions to help, as well as individuals who never served. Embrace Humility and Curiosity: Approach networking with "childlike wonder," an open mind, and humility. Be willing to learn from everyone, even younger professionals with different experiences. Master "Do" Questions: Instead of "yes/no" questions, ask "How do you, Why do you, Where do you, What do you" to truly learn. At the end, always ask, "What can I do for you?" Show, Don't Just Tell Your Value: Bryan's experience demonstrated that having good conversations can effectively showcase his value, making resumes less crucial initially. The company that hired him might not have even seen his resume before making an offer. Relationships Open Doors: Strong relationships can lead to unexpected opportunities like advisory board work, consulting, and partnerships, even after securing a full-time role. Bryan even gained the personal cell number of a managing partner at a $93 billion venture capital firm through networking. Overcoming Networking Anxiety:  Bryan advises, "Some will, some won't, so what?...next." Understand that the corporate world respects and expects people to reach out, unlike the military hierarchy. Civilians often understand military value more than veterans realize. The Role of the Resume: Bryan found his general networking resume to be an "intellectual exercise," helping him quickly pivot and tailor his "elevator pitch" to different conversations. It's for your own clarity, not necessarily for handing out. The Commit Foundation was instrumental in developing his resume and provided an executive coach. Negotiation Insights: "Pretty much everything's negotiable."  Understand Your True Value Don't Be Afraid to Counter Research is Key The Civilian World Differs: Unlike the military, where things are "made by committee," the civilian world has many who can fire you, accountability is tied to profit and loss, and there's less "rounding up" for mistakes. Final Thoughts & Fun Fact: Bryan stresses the importance of reaching out to your seminar hosts, as Michele and Cyndi genuinely mean it when they offer continued support and relationship building. As a fun fact, Bryan enjoys reading Warhammer 40k sci-fi novels and tries to code an hour a week to stay relevant, reflecting his belief that "humans who know how to use AI are going to replace humans who do not know how to use AI". Connect with Bryan Eovito: Bryan has a wealth of knowledge and is happy to connect. Support our team and the team at Valor and Honor Outdoors with a donation

Welcome to another insightful episode of Tactical Transition! Join your hosts, Michele Lewis and Cyndi Po, as they sit down with special guest Colonel Bryan Eovito, a distinguished "soon-to-be" 32-year veteran of the US Marine Corps. Bryan shares invaluable lessons as he is transitioning from military service to a senior director role at a Virginia-based tech company, specializing in AI-enabled digital transformation. This episode is brought to you by Vet Mentor AI, a veteran-founded platform established in 2024 by Marine Corps veteran Paul Helinski. This AI-driven tool simplifies and enhances access to VA disability benefits. You can save $50 off your yearly access using the code ESELSEMINARS at vetmentorai.com. Key Takeaways from Bryan Eovito's Transition Journey: Beyond the Tactical: Bryan initially expected his transition seminar to be purely tactical (VA benefits, etc.). However, the ESL Seminars provided a more "operational, almost campaigning" approach, emphasizing networking and relationships. He realized, "this is going to be work". Networking is Everything: Bryan highlights that networking is your "most important tool". It's about building genuine, "give-give" relationships, not just "taking" to get a job. Expand Your Network: While fellow veterans are always supportive, Bryan focused on meeting people who served long ago and are now in positions to help, as well as individuals who never served. Embrace Humility and Curiosity: Approach networking with "childlike wonder," an open mind, and humility. Be willing to learn from everyone, even younger professionals with different experiences. Master "Do" Questions: Instead of "yes/no" questions, ask "How do you, Why do you, Where do you, What do you" to truly learn. At the end, always ask, "What can I do for you?" Show, Don't Just Tell Your Value: Bryan's experience demonstrated that having good conversations can effectively showcase his value, making resumes less crucial initially. The company that hired him might not have even seen his resume before making an offer. Relationships Open Doors: Strong relationships can lead to unexpected opportunities like advisory board work, consulting, and partnerships, even after securing a full-time role. Bryan even gained the personal cell number of a managing partner at a $93 billion venture capital firm through networking. Overcoming Networking Anxiety:  Bryan advises, "Some will, some won't, so what?...next." Understand that the corporate world respects and expects people to reach out, unlike the military hierarchy. Civilians often understand military value more than veterans realize. The Role of the Resume: Bryan found his general networking resume to be an "intellectual exercise," helping him quickly pivot and tailor his "elevator pitch" to different conversations. It's for your own clarity, not necessarily for handing out. The Commit Foundation was instrumental in developing his resume and provided an executive coach. Negotiation Insights: "Pretty much everything's negotiable."  Understand Your True Value Don't Be Afraid to Counter Research is Key The Civilian World Differs: Unlike the military, where things are "made by committee," the civilian world has many who can fire you, accountability is tied to profit and loss, and there's less "rounding up" for mistakes. Final Thoughts & Fun Fact: Bryan stresses the importance of reaching out to your seminar hosts, as Michele and Cyndi genuinely mean it when they offer continued support and relationship building. As a fun fact, Bryan enjoys reading Warhammer 40k sci-fi novels and tries to code an hour a week to stay relevant, reflecting his belief that "humans who know how to use AI are going to replace humans who do not know how to use AI". Connect with Bryan Eovito: Bryan has a wealth of knowledge and is happy to connect. Support our team and the team at Valor and Honor Outdoors with a donation

Welcome to a special episode of Tactical Transition, where your hosts Cyndi Po and Michele Lewis sit down with a remarkable guest, Adam Pettus. Adam, a recently retired Navy Lieutenant Commander, offers incredibly fresh and candid insights into the military transition process, having just completed his second week in a new civilian role. Adam's journey is a testament to perseverance and adaptability, drawing on 23 years of distinguished service in the Navy as a career intelligence, information warfare, and cryptological warfare professional. He retired in May after serving as the targeting and command and control programs lead for the CNO digital warfare office and has since joined Collins Aerospace RTX as an Associate Director for Growth Initiatives. Here are some key takeaways from our insightful conversation with Adam: Gratitude for Guidance: Adam expresses profound gratitude for the "whole bushel full of oysters full of pearls" he gained from Cyndi and Michele's seminar, noting he applied them diligently to his transition journey and found immense value in their continued support. Transition is an Ongoing Process: Adam emphasized that his transition is "still right in the very middle of it," asserting that it's unrealistic to expect it to be over just because employment is secured. He views it as a continuous adjustment, especially after 23 years in a specific mindset. New Realities & Flexibility: He shared that his new role, while stable, offers less personal schedule flexibility than his military career, posing "significant challenges" for family life. However, his prior military experience taught him to adapt by expending initial energy to learn, then becoming more productive with less effort. Combating Impostor Syndrome: Michele highlighted that the feelings of inadequacy Adam described are typical for anyone starting a new job, though it's an "additional component to the military transition" due to the multiple layers of loss service members experience simultaneously, including identity and corporate culture changes. Embracing Optimism Amidst Setbacks: Adam stressed the importance of maintaining "a degree of faith and optimism" despite setbacks, like a particularly challenging interview. He advised reflecting, absorbing what's necessary, and "let go of the rest" of the negativity. Surprises of Transition: Inherent Loneliness: Adam found that "loneliness is inherent within this process," even with support structures, as the responsibility for employment and family provision rests squarely on the individual. Self-Care is Key: He countered this by prioritizing self-care, frequenting the gym six days a week to "complete the stress cycle" and maintain physical and emotional well-being. Unexpected Supporters: A surprising discovery was that his biggest advocates and coaches were people he met within four months of his transition, rather than his existing long-term network, demonstrating that "networks aren't always friends" and can come from unexpected places. "Safety" Positions May Not Pan Out: His planned "safety" job contingencies, where he was exceptionally qualified, "not a single one of those panned out". This highlighted the "recency bias" of hiring managers, who primarily focus on your most recent experience. Exploiting Recent Experience: Adam learned to mitigate this bias by presenting his skills competency-focused, and to "exploit" his most recent experience, which ultimately led him to an "opportunity [that] was so good that I would be a damn fool not to take it". His current role came about partly through the positive influence of colleagues who had also been offered the position. Gratitude and Serendipity: Adam concluded by expressing deep gratitude for how things unfolded, acknowledging the struggles many others face in today's challenging environment, and offering his support to fellow transitioning service members. Don't miss out on Adam's unique and personal perspective on navigating the complexities of post-military life! We were also thrilled to learn some fun facts about Adam, including his passion for archiving and digitizing movies in his 40-unit server rack and his love for cooking, especially baked goods from scratch like classic New York cheesecake! Connect with Adam on LinkedIn