Transition Drill

In this episode, we get into the military transition of Tami Thacker, a former Navy corpsman whose journey epitomizes the essence of service and resilience. Her story is a profound exploration, from a tumultuous childhood to becoming a trailblazer in the armed forces. Tami's early years were marked by hardship and instability. Despite these challenges, she found her calling in the Navy, a deci...

Embarking on a journey from military transition to civilian triumph, this episode delves into the heart of assisting veterans. It's a candid conversation with a retired Marine Corps veteran exploration of the challenges and victories that define life after service, presenting guidance for those navigating the shift from uniform to civilian life. Brian Grana, 20-year retired Lt. Colonel, whose...

In this heartfelt and insightful episode, we delve into the life of Kenny Wilson, a former Air Force F-16 Specialist Flight serviceman, as he shares his journey of transitioning from military life to the civilian world. Kenny's story is not just his own; it resonates with many veterans who find themselves at a crossroads, seeking purpose, direction, and a sense of belonging after their service. Th...

Joel Searls, a 16-year veteran and a Major in the Marine Corps, has carved a unique path for himself, intertwining his military experience with a passion for the arts, specifically in writing and acting. Joel went to OCS in 2014 after graduating from Ohio State University. He served 7 years active duty with a deployment to Afghanistan. Wanting to continue to serve this country, he transitioned to...

After 27 years fighting terrorism like Al Qaeda, unlock the secrets to a seamless transition from law enforcement to corporate security. An agent’s journey facing job hunting challenges and emerging triumphant. The transition from a career in law enforcement or as a first responder to the corporate world can be daunting. Many veterans and first responders find themselves at a crossroads, unsure of...

“That Prison Guard” A combat soldier’s transition: battling alcoholism to sobriety and personal transformation.   In a candid conversation, Hector Bravo delves into the intricacies of veteran transition, sharing his profound experiences from serving in the Army to securing jobs after being in the military and later confronting the challenges of the California Department of Corrections. Beyond his...

This podcast shares stories and challenges faced by firefighters and first responders, shedding light on resilience and sacrifices.   PODCAST - LISTEN, WATCH, AND SUBSCRIBE  https://linktr.ee/TransitionDrillPodcast   In a compelling conversation, Ben O'Brien, a Lieutenant with the South Metro Fire Service in Colorado shares his life and experiences, offering a unique perspective on the challenges...

Explore a journey of veteran transition, from pilot to civilian life. Discover the challenges and triumphs of life post-service.     PODCAST - LISTEN, WATCH, AND SUBSCRIBE https://linktr.ee/TransitionDrillPodcast   In the latest episode of the Transition Drill podcast, we delve into the veteran transition of Matthew Morris, a Marine Corps Captain, navigating the intricate journey of transitioning...

From surviving an IED blast to thriving post-service, explore a Marine Corps veteran's transition journey and life after the military.   PODCAST - LISTEN, WATCH, AND SUBSCRIBE  https://linktr.ee/TransitionDrillPodcast   In this episode of the Transition Drill podcast, I got to talk with John Jones. John grew up wanting to be in the military and joined the Marine Corps in 1995; only after a hiccup...

PODCAST - LISTEN, WATCH, AND SUBSCRIBE https://linktr.ee/TransitionDrillPodcast   In this episode of the Transition Drill podcast I delve into the life and career transitions of Gary Faust, a former law enforcement officer. The conversation begins with a nostalgic look back at his upbringing in Orange County, where he was influenced by his father's dedication to law enforcement in Santa Ana. His m...

PODCAST - LISTEN, WATCH, AND SUBSCRIBE https://linktr.ee/TransitionDrillPodcast   In a candid discussion, I get into the life and passions of Bobby Holland, a retired Navy SEAL with a penchant for golf. We discuss his transition from the military to civilian life and subsequently starting his golf apparel company – Hoolie. Bobby grew up playing and loving football as well as the discipline and res...

PODCAST - LISTEN, WATCH, AND SUBSCRIBE https://linktr.ee/TransitionDrillPodcast    In this episode, I delve into the life of Andrew Cruz, a man whose journey from L.A. to the discipline of the Marine Corps has shaped him into a multifaceted entrepreneur. Andrew served 18 years and got out as Gunnery Sergeant in 2021. This is a must-listen for first responders, law enforcement, military veterans, a...

PODCAST - LISTEN, WATCH, AND SUBSCRIBE https://linktr.ee/TransitionDrillPodcast   In this episode I had a candid conversation with Shanon Morris. Shanon shares her unexpected journey to the Naval Academy. Growing up in the suburbs of Illinois, she had never heard of the Naval Academy until a flyer arrived in her mail during her high school years. A subsequent trip to Washington, D.C., and a tour o...

In this episode, I interview Nick Velez. Nick is a first-generation Mexican American who not only broke barriers by becoming the first in his family to join the U.S. Marine Corps but also navigated the challenges of transitioning back to civilian life.   The decision to join the military wasn't made on a whim. Inspired by his 6th-grade teacher, an Army Ranger, Nick’s initial desire was to join the...

In this episode, I got to talk with Andrew “Sully” Sullivan, a retired Navy SEAL Chief Petty Officer. Sullivan shares his journey to becoming a member of one of the most elite military units in the world. After serving for 18 years and medically retiring in 2020 he started the non-profit Community First Project, where he and his team are providing training to law enforcement which focuses on tacti...

 In this episode, I sat down to talk with retired 20-year Marine Corps veteran, MSgt. Derek Mensen. Derek's early life was steeped in the typical American pastimes of football and baseball, with a brief foray into wrestling. His family, while not having a history of military service, was supportive when Derek and his older brother decided to join the military. Derek's decision to join the Marine C...

In this episode of the Transition Drill Podcast, I’m joined by Christopher Hoyer, a retired police officer from the Phoenix Police Department. Chris shares his journey from a troubled youth to a 20-year career in law enforcement, and his experiences dealing with trauma and its aftermath.   Chris grew up in a single-parent household, with his mother being his primary caregiver. His biological fathe...

Welcome to another amazing episode of the podcast. We delve into the life, the struggles, and the triumphs of a veteran. This is the story of Kevin Gilley, a Navy veteran who served his country with pride and honor, but faced a battle of a different kind when he returned home.   Kevin grew up dreaming of becoming a firefighter, a dream he pursued from his high school days. Many firefighters he kne...

In this podcast episode, we delve into the life of Angel Soriano, a former Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant, who shares his journey from being a skateboarder to serving in the military. Angel's story is one of transformation and growth, offering valuable insights for military members and those interested in understanding the military lifestyle.   Angel grew up in a small family with two brothers in W...

In episode 98 of the Transition Drill podcast, we delve into the life and career of Kevin Seiff, a former Navy SEAL and Marine Corps officer who transitioned into entrepreneurship. Kevin's journey began at the age of 12 when he met a Navy SEAL and was inspired to follow a similar path. After attending the Naval Academy and serving in the Marine Corps, with 1 combat deployment to Afghanistan, Kevin...

 In this episode of the Transition Drill podcast, I got to talk with Lt. Colonel Isaac Lee, a retired Marine Corps helicopter pilot who served for 20 years with multiple combat deployments. Isaac shares his journey from being a student studying advertising to becoming a Marine, and then becoming a Senior VP of Operations for a company in San Diego after his retirement in 2017.   Isaac discusses hi...

Join me in this episode of the Transition Drill podcast, we delve into the life of Ashoka, a former Green Beret turned musician. Ashoka's journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of personal growth.   Ashoka's military career began with a deep-seated desire to serve his country. Despite the challenges and sacrifices, he was driven by the honor and respect he earned as a...

In this episode of the Transition Drill podcast, we delve into the life and career of Craig Garcia, a police officer with over two decades of experience. He retired from Mesa PD in 2021 at the rank of Sergeant. Craig's journey in law enforcement is a testament to resilience and adaptability. Craig began his career in a newly formed police department on an Indian reservation, where he faced the uni...

Join me in this episode for a profound conversation with Joe Hudak, a retired Green Beret – Special Mission Unit. Joe served 20 years in the Army and had 11 combat deployments. He shares his personal journey of battling trauma, seeking treatment, and finding hope in unconventional approaches. This episode is a must-listen for members of the military and law enforcement who are navigating their own...

In this engaging podcast episode, Dave Weiner, a military veteran and seasoned law enforcement professional, shares his personal journey from serving 8 years in the Air Force, then over 20 years in Federal law enforcement to starting his own training and education firm, Secure Measures. Dave's expertise lies in bridging the gap between the military and law enforcement communities by offering speci...