w/ John McConnell and Victor De La Flor
Military Retirement Podcast
Highlighting military retirement journeys from all walks of the military. Wide ranging long form conversations with Veterans. We discuss the retirement process, life starting in the military, and life after the military. Also talk to former military members who transitioned before reaching retirement and started their own businesses.
Author
w/ John McConnell and Victor De La Flor
Category
Podcast website
Latest episode
Jul 6, 2026
Where to listen?
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Episodes
#108 - How America’s National Security System Actually Works 17.10.2025 1:28:55
In this dynamic episode of the Military Retirement Podcast, John and Vic kick off 2025 discussing everything from New Year's reflections to crucial veteran updates. They delve into the recent Supreme Court ruling that expands GI Bill benefits to 48 months for veterans with multiple periods of service [04:35], a game-changer for over a million veterans. The conversation then shifts to the fascinati...
#107 What Happens When Veterans Talk About Change? 10.10.2025 1:29:40
Ever felt like skipping the chain of command? Or wondered how to truly thrive after military service? In this episode, Vic and John sit down with Air Force veteran and veteran coach Daniel Faust to explore the gray area of Reserve retirement, the emotional hurdles of transition, and what it truly takes to advocate for those in need. Key Moments [00:01:29] Don't Skip the Chain of Command: A hil...
#106 Can you survive Medical Retirement? 03.10.2025 1:10:08
Ever wondered about military medical retirement? This episode features a candid conversation with Marine Corps veteran Alberto Boy, who shares his firsthand experience navigating the complex medical retirement process. We dive into dispelling common myths, understanding your financial options, and finding your purpose in civilian life. Key Moments: [08:40] From Infantry to Logistics: A Career Jour...
#105 Sunday LIVE! Fed Jobs, DoD Contractor and Veteran Updates 26.09.2025 1:23:18
Getting out soon? Worried about the transition? In this episode, we're tackling the biggest questions about post-military life, from how to manage your finances to the tricky decision of chasing that last promotion. It's an episode packed with real-world advice and personal stories to help you navigate your next chapter. Key Moments: [00:03:00] VA Claims & Honesty: Why you should never...
#104 Understanding VA Disability & Healthcare: 0% to 100% 20.09.2025 1:43:26
In this essential episode of the Military Retirement Podcast, we're cutting through the complexity to bring you a clear, comprehensive guide to VA disability and healthcare, with a special focus on what a 0% to 100% disability rating truly means for veterans. This isn't just about numbers; it's about understanding your entitlements, maximizing your benefits, and ensuring you receive th...
You Won't Believe What Happens When THE OFFICE Meets the Military 14.09.2025 1:51:21
In this episode, we sit down with veteran and entrepreneur Nick Palmesano to discuss his inspiring journey from serving in the military to creating the TV series "Office Joe." Nick shares his background, including his time at West Point and his military service, and he discusses the challenges of transitioning to civilian life. When the show M.A.S.H. ended, the viewer was left wondering...
Navigating Resume's, LinkedIn, and What YOU Want To Do NEXT 05.09.2025 2:19:20
In this episode, we sit down with career coach Don Gleason, an expert in military transitions, to discuss how to navigate the complex world of civilian job hunting. Don shares invaluable advice on creating a standout resume, leveraging LinkedIn for networking, and the importance of understanding the hiring process. The conversation goes beyond the tactical, as we delve into the crucial topics of w...
90 POUNDS LOST: My Diet-Only Transformation and Military Mindset for Success 30.08.2025 1:58:58
In this powerful interview, we sit down with military mindset expert, Kevin Brewer, who shares his incredible story of losing 90 pounds in just 15 months through a 100% diet-based approach. Learn how he leveraged a "military mindset" to build resilience and gain control of his health. Discover his insights on gut health, the importance of single-ingredient foods, and how to find a supportive socia...
#100 Finding Your Path After Service: A Conversation with Retired General Jeff Buchanan 22.08.2025 1:21:25
LTG (RET) Jeffrey Buchanan reminds us "Transitioning from military to civilian life requires finding your own path."we have an insightful conversation with retired US Army General Jeffrey Buchanan, who shares his incredible journey of 37 years of service. We delve into his early life as an "Army brat," his distinguished career, and the pivotal moments that shaped his leadership...
#99 From Chief to Civilian: A Marine's Guide to SkillBridge, Family, & Finding a New Purpose 17.08.2025 1:16:07
In this powerful episode, we sit down with retired Marine Chief Warrant Officer Rich Near to explore the complexities and triumphs of transitioning from military to civilian life. Rich shares his personal journey, from his challenging upbringing to a decorated career in the Marine Corps, and offers invaluable advice for veterans and their families. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking...
#98 One Year Later: Did Retirement Make Me Happier? 08.08.2025 1:24:58
In this episode, the hosts reflect on their retirement journeys, with Vic celebrating his one-year anniversary of leaving the Marine Corps. They discuss the importance of structure in civilian life, balancing ambition with personal well-being, and the mental adjustments needed after leaving the military. The conversation also touches on current events, including the Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul fight,...
#97 What REALLY Matters on the USMC Birthday 03.08.2025 1:23:08
In this special episode, the Military Retirement Podcast celebrates the 249th birthday of the Marine Corps! Join the hosts as they reminisce about their experiences at Marine Corps balls, discuss the value of a full 20-year military career, and offer advice on mental health and leadership. They also talk about a new e-book promotion for Veterans Day and the future impact of AI on the military and...
#96 - Military To Civilian Success After 1 Enlistment 25.07.2025 33:55
In this impactful episode, we introduce Transition Tribe 2045, a visionary new program founded by retired E9 Master Gunnery Sergeant Wayne Terronez. Discover how this initiative aims to bridge the critical gap in military transition, providing a much-needed "tribe" and comprehensive support for service members, especially first-termers, as they navigate the complex journey to civilian li...
#95 - Navigating Military to Civilian Life: Interviews, Leadership, and the 80% Solution 18.07.2025 1:07:40
In this episode, join hosts Nick and John as they share candid insights into the challenges and triumphs of transitioning from military to civilian life. From the frustrating realities of job interviews and government applications to the nuanced art of de-escalation and the pursuit of personal growth, this conversation offers invaluable perspectives for anyone navigating new chapters. Dive deep in...
#94 - Veteran AI simplifies the VA Claims process to help Veterans get better and faster results 12.07.2025 1:26:22
Simplifying VA Disability Claims with https://veteranai.co @VeteranAiOfficial In this episode, we sit down with Dennis Spawn, the innovative founder of Veteran AI, to explore how his groundbreaking tool is revolutionizing the often-complex process of VA disability claims. Discover how Veteran AI helps veterans efficiently manage their claims, generate crucial evidence, and navigate the bureauc...
#93 - Life After Military Retirement 03.07.2025 1:12:20
This "Funday Sunday" session of the Military Retirement Podcast, hosted by John McConnell, features Vic discussing overseas relocation for military personnel transitioning out of service. They share personal experiences and offer insights into various factors influencing relocation decisions. The episode also announces their new book, "Bottom Line Up Front," aimed at assisting...
#92 - How to live and work OCONUS 28.06.2025 1:06:49
This "Funday Sunday" session of the Military Retirement Podcast, hosted by John McConnell, features Vic discussing overseas relocation for military personnel transitioning out of service. They share personal experiences and offer insights into various factors influencing relocation decisions. The episode also announces their new book, "Bottom Line Up Front," aimed at assisting...
#91 Retire to Something — with Brian Arrington of Vets2Industry 20.06.2025 1:13:14
Thanking all of you 777 Youtube Subscribers so far!! 🫶🏼🫶🏼 giving some flowers to the Military Influencer Conference folks, BAH increase, much more 📌 Episode Summary In this heartfelt and motivating episode of the Military Retirement Podcast, hosts John and Vic sit down with Brian Arrington, founder and CEO of Vets2Industry, to explore the mindset shift every service member needs before they t...
#90 Hurricanes and Military Skill translation 2024 13.06.2025 1:07:30
💬 Key Quote “I didn't walk away from retirement — I walked towards more choices.” 📌 Key Takeaways Retirement Isn’t Always the Goal: Not everyone who joins the military does so intending to serve 20 years. And that’s okay. Build a Plan Based on Your Values: Your future doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. There’s more than one path to a good life. Ask the Right Questions: Instead of asking “S...
#89 LIVE Q&A with @Frommilitarytomillionaire Dave Pere 06.06.2025 1:15:19
🎙 Episode Summary In this wide-ranging and deeply insightful conversation, John McConnell hosts David Pere, Marine Corps veteran and founder of Military to Millionaire, to discuss financial readiness, miscommunication stressors, and the practical path to wealth-building for veterans. David shares his journey from buying his first property using a VA loan to leading a nationwide Mastermind for serv...
#88 Reserve / NGB Retirement... DON'T DO THIS! 31.05.2025 1:10:23
📌 Episode Summary In this in-depth episode of the Military Retirement Podcast, John and Vic sit down with Chief Warrant Officer 4 Joe Michel to demystify the complexities of Reserve and National Guard retirement. They cover critical knowledge gaps around the "gray area," COLA decisions, early retirement age reductions, Tricare, SBP, federal time buyback, and transitioning smoothly into civilian l...
#87 From Military to Mission: JP Perez on Redefining Veteran Life and Finding New Purpose 23.05.2025 1:44:44
Juan “JP” Perez, a former U.S. Marine Infantryman and Scout Sniper who, after distinguished service in Afghanistan and a career in law enforcement, now dedicates his life to changing the veteran culture and empowering fellow veterans nationwide. https://www.facebook.com/groups/thesavagesquadfam/ We talk about the challenges of being away from family during military travels, the itch to move and ex...
#86 🎙️ Military Retirement Podcast: Space-A Travel, RV Life, and Finding Adventure After Retirement 16.05.2025 2:00:01
In this episode of the Military Retirement Podcast, John and Vic catch up after battling some technical challenges! They dive deep into the world of Space-A travel, adventure after retirement, travel stories, and even the lure of van life. From typhoon-survival stories to the perks and pitfalls of Space-A flights, this conversation is packed with humor, advice, and a little nostalgia. They also sh...
#85 🎙️ Retired Life, Real Talk: 22 Years, 4 Deployments, and Finding Purpose After the Army | Guest: Winway Bertley 09.05.2025 1:40:25
Welcome back to the Military Retirement Podcast — the show by veterans, for veterans. Today, John is joined by Winway Bertley, a U.S. Army retiree with 22 years and 8 days of service, to talk about life during and after the military. In this episode: 🇺🇸 Infantry Roots to Logistics Leadership: The journey through Army life 🚁 Four Deployments, 54 Months Overseas: The emotional toll of 16-month depl...
#84 Opportunity, Service & Responsibility – A Deep Dive into Veterans, Homelessness, and Legacy 02.05.2025 1:36:59
🎧 Summary In this heartfelt and wide-ranging conversation, John and Victor open up about parenting, military service, veteran homelessness, emotional resilience, and their shared desire to give back. They reflect on guiding their children toward meaningful paths like the Naval Academy, critique homelessness policy, explore what they’d do with $200 million, and advocate for veteran skill-building...
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