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 military members with their transition. Key topics include job considerations (GS, NAF, contractor, civilian), financial planning, pre-move exploration using TDY trips, and an in-depth look at government civilian job types overseas. Towards the end, the discussion touches on job application tips and the rapid advancements in AI, emphasizing the need for continuous learning.Important Moments:00:02:15 - Discussing overseas relocation and personal experiences.00:04:00 - Promoting the book "Bottom Line Up Front."00:05:07 - Key topics covered in the book.00:10:24 - Key factors for military relocation: job opportunities, cost of living, and personal finances.00:18:12 - Utilizing TDY trips for relocation scouting.00:20:19 - Job avenues for overseas relocation (GS, NAF, government contracting, civilian).00:21:09 - Renting versus buying in a new location.00:24:22 - Using USAJOBS for government positions.00:26:12 - Understanding overseas GS position caps.00:28:34 - Benefits of NAF vs. GS positions.00:30:08 - NAF positions and quality of life.00:33:14 - Exploring NAF positions on USAJOBS.00:35:50 - The lengthy government hiring process and SOFA agreements.00:37:00 - Base privileges for contractors and retirees.00:38:51 - Advantages of relocating from the states.00:43:08 - Relocation allowance and baggage add-ons.00:45:07 - Resume tips for GS positions.00:47:35 - Civilian success in USAJOBS applications.00:49:19 - Networking and internal hires in government jobs.00:51:24 - Justin Murphy's resume approach.00:53:19 - E-7 knowledge vs. GS-12/13 positions.00:54:50 - Continuous learning and skill development.00:55:59 - The rapid advancement of AI.01:01:20 - Recap of OCONUS retirement and job search.01:05:30 - Personal preference for NAF positions.Books and Resources Mentioned:Bottom Line Up Front: What You Need to Know Before You Leave the Military by John McConnell and Victor De La Flor: https://amzn.to/46hYge8Channel Social Links:Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/981767756191573Relevant Hashtags:#MilitaryRetirement #OverseasRelocation #MilitaryTransition #GovernmentJobs #GSJobs #NAFJobs #MilitaryLife #VeteranLife #RetirementPlanning #OCONUS #MilitaryBenefits #JobSearch #MilitaryPodcast #BottomLineUpFront

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 transition: Don’t just retire from something — retire to something. Brian shares hard-earned wisdom from his own transition journey, the founding of Vets2Industry, and his mission to connect every veteran and family member to the opportunities, resources, and community they need to thrive. If you’re preparing to separate, retire, or just want to feel re-inspired, this episode is a must-listen.

🔗 Links & Resources

🧭 Vets2Industry — Free resources for veterans and families

📘 Bottom Line Up Front by John McConnell — https://amzn.to/4jUiPky

👥 Military Retirement Facebook Group — https://www.facebook.com/groups/981767756191573

📺 The Green Logbook YouTube Channel — https://youtube.com/@thegreenlogbook

🎧 Military Retirement Podcast — https://youtube.com/@militaryretirementpodcast

🧠 Key Quote

“If you don’t have a mission when you leave, you’ll feel lost. The military gives you structure — so make sure you’re retiring to something that keeps you going.” — Brian Arrington

⏱️ Key Topics & Timestamps

Time Topic

0:00 Opening thoughts: What it means to “retire to something”

0:30 Introducing Brian Arrington and the mission of Vets2Industry

1:20 Brian’s transition story — how he found purpose through service

2:30 Why community and identity vanish after transition — and how to reclaim them

3:30 The importance of having a post-military plan and mission

4:00 Common mistakes service members make when separating

5:00 The story behind Vets2Industry and who it’s for

6:00 Final thoughts: don’t just exit. Build your next chapter.

💬 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 “Should I stay for the pension?”, ask “What kind of life do I want to build?”

📕 Bottom Line Up Front Book - https://amzn.to/4kDSRml

👥 Military Retirement Facebook Group — https://www.facebook.com/groups/981767756191573

📺 The Green Logbook YouTube Channel — https://youtube.com/@thegreenlogbook

🎧 Military Retirement Podcast — https://youtube.com/@militaryretirementpodcast

🎙 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 service members and veterans seeking financial independence.

They cover strategies for transitioning from military to civilian life, how to tackle debt, smart approaches to investing in real estate, when refinancing actually makes sense, and why the Midwest may be a top pick for retirees. The episode emphasizes the long-term mindset, accountability, and spending intentionally on experience over things.

🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned

🏠 Military to Millionaire Website:

https://www.frommilitarytomillionaire.com/

📘 The No B.S. Guide to Military Life on Amazon/Audible:

https://amzn.to/3SwfEUz

📅 Military Influencer Conference:

https://militaryinfluencer.com/

📘 Bottom Line Up Front: What You Need to Know Before You Leave the Military by John McConnell and Victor De La Flor:

https://amzn.to/43GInv4

💬 Military Retirement Group on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/981767756191573

🎥 YouTube Channels:

Military Retirement Podcast:

https://youtube.com/@militaryretirementpodcast

The Green Logbook:

https://youtube.com/@thegreenlogbook

From Military to Millionaire:

https://www.youtube.com/@Frommilitarytomillionaire

0:00 Opening quote from Marcus Aurelius

0:30 Introduction to the show & importance of communication

1:55 Miscommunication in military life and personal logistics

4:00 Stress, patience, and humility during transition periods

6:45 Civilian life lacks military’s support systems

8:10 Facebook group for military retirement support

9:10 Military Influencer Conference details

13:15 Introduction of guest: David Pere

15:00 From military service to real estate investor

16:00 Why “get-rich-quick” is a myth and the power of compounding

19:00 Using the VA loan for house-hacking (duplex/4-plex strategy)

23:30 Shifting from scarcity to wealth-building mindset

26:00 Paying off credit card debt vs. investing

30:50 Evaluating ROI of debt payoff vs. investments

35:00 When to invest and building a post-military financial runway

37:00 Budgeting: track spending and cut unnecessary costs

41:00 Spending on experiences vs. stuff (popcorn at home vs. theater)

46:00 Overview of David’s Mastermind and philosophy on money

48:00 Hot topic: Should you refinance your mortgage right now?

53:00 Choose investment strategy that fits your life goals

54:30 David's recommendation: House hacking, investing early

56:00 Signs of market shifts: auto industry as a bellwether

1:02:00 Best low-cost-of-living states for veterans

1:07:00 Missouri as an example of affordable living

1:11:00 Closing thoughts and how to connect with David

📌 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 life. This is essential listening for anyone in Compo 2 or 3 (Title 32) preparing for retirement — whether you’re 5 years out or filing paperwork now.

📚 Books Mentioned

The Daily Laws by Robert Greene – https://amzn.to/43UlV2I

The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene – https://amzn.to/43nziZe

The Daily Stoic by Ryan Holiday – https://amzn.to/4dH9Gtz

🔗 Links & Resources

🖥️ Tricare Plans & Benefits: https://tricare.mil

📖 Military Retirement Book: Bottom Line Up Front – https://amzn.to/43GInv4

👥 Military Retirement Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/981767756191573

🎥 The Green Logbook YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@thegreenlogbook

📄 Cola Trap White Paper (by Col. Fowler): [Likely a PDF shared in veteran groups, suggest linking to the podcast or YouTube video explaining it once released]

📊 Military Retirement Calculators: https://militarypay.defense.gov/Calculators

💡 Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) Info: https://militarypay.defense.gov/Benefits/Survivor-Benefit-Program/

0:00 Opening reflection from The Daily Laws and adapting to change

1:18 Book discussion: Robert Greene, Ryan Holiday, and daily meditations

5:04 Transitioning mindsets and habits post-military

6:57 Intro to reserve and National Guard retirement differences

7:58 Deep dive into the "COLA trap" and retirement timing

9:54 Community service and post-retirement volunteerism

13:30 Guest intro: CWO4 Joe Michel and his reserve career

14:50 “Gray area” retirement and understanding eligibility at age 60

17:00 NDAA 2008: Lowering retirement age for certain service

20:00 Missing retirement points and how to fight for credit

23:00 COLA decision: Retired Reserve vs full discharge

26:00 Retirement education gaps in the military

29:00 Need for unit-level retirement SMEs (subject matter experts)

31:00 Preparing for civilian transition: uniform to “Mr.” mindset

34:00 TRS & TAP: Challenges of preparing for civilian life

37:00 Health coverage: Tricare Reserve Select, Tricare for Life, BENEFEDS

43:00 Buying back military time for federal employment

48:00 Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) overview for reservists

50:00 Personal records audits and DD214 accuracy

52:00 Retirement calculators and high-level pay math

58:00 Idea: A Reserve Retirement Masterclass or Webinar

1:03:00 Converting “tribal knowledge” into shared guidance

1:06:00 Meetup ideas and supporting the military retirement community

1:07:20 Closing notes: book promo, shoutouts, and next week’s guest

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 explore new places, and the importance of marking personal growth during military experiences. We also discuss JP's journey from the military to civilian life, his podcast, and the benefits of ice baths. The conversation highlights the need for veterans to find their new purpose and success after service. The conversation explores the themes of ego, self-reflection, and personal growth in the transition from military to civilian life. It emphasizes the importance of learning to be likable, talking to people, and respecting others' opinions. The conversation also touches on the use of dark humor and the need for veterans to feel proud of their accomplishments. The concept of taking responsibility and being harder on oneself while holding others accountable is discussed. The conversation highlights the need for veterans to take ownership of their own lives and not rely on external sources for help or validation. The importance of creativity and problem-solving skills learned in the military is also emphasized. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the victim mentality among veterans and the need to take control of one's own narrative and future. In this final part of the conversation, the hosts discuss various therapies and treatments for PTSD and the importance of finding what works best for each individual. They mention the use of rapid eye movement therapy (EMDR), psilocybin, and other alternative treatments. They also touch on the need for better transition assistance for veterans and the importance of connecting younger and older veterans. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the challenges of transitioning to civilian life and the need for ongoing support and guidance.

00:00 Embracing Family and Personal Growth During Military Travels

03:16 Transitioning from the Military to Civilian Life: Finding Purpose and Success

04:06 The Power of Podcasting and Empowering the Veteran Community

08:56 The Benefits of Ice Baths for Physical and Mental Well-being

11:19 Letting Go of the Past and Embracing the Present and Future

18:44 Developing Charisma and Connection Skills for Civilian Life

29:48 Humbling the Ego and Embracing Personal and Professional Growth

37:01 Ego and the Desire for Recognition

38:00 Learning to Be Likable and Improving Communication Skills

39:17 Taking Responsibility and Holding Others Accountable

41:25 Taking Ownership of Your Own Life

45:07 The Cushy Bubble of the Military and Breaking Free

51:18 Embracing Individuality and Breaking Free from the Mold

56:18 Using the Calendar as a Map for Life

01:09:13 Overcoming the Victim Mentality

01:12:15 Exploring Therapies and Treatments for PTSD

01:13:10 The Need for Better Transition Assistance for Veterans

01:27:38 Connecting Younger and Older Veterans

01:34:56 Challenges of Transitioning to Civilian Life

🔗 Links (FULL URL TEXT — no hyperlink hiding):

Military Retirement Podcast Website:

https://www.militaryretirementpodcast.com

Military Retirement Group on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/981767756191573

Bottom Line Up Front Book (Amazon):

https://amzn.to/4jUiPky

The Green Logbook YouTube Channel:

https://youtube.com/@thegreenlogbook

Military Retirement Podcast YouTube Channel:

https://youtube.com/@militaryretirementpodcast

Some links result in commissions for the site

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 share insights about GS jobs, Schedule A hiring, and discuss how retirement isn’t the end — it’s just the start of bigger adventures.

Timestamps:

0:00 - Music intro

0:26 - Back after technical difficulties

0:40 - John recording from Scott AFB

2:00 - Air Force vs Marine Corps quality of life comparisons

4:00 - Luxuries of Air Force DFACs and chow halls

6:00 - Random base encounters and veteran community stories

7:00 - Space-A travel stories: C-5 rides, Dover experiences

10:00 - The amazing people you meet when you slow down

12:00 - Book review: Supercommunicators

16:00 - Negotiation tactics from FBI negotiators

20:00 - Body language, psychology, and reading people

24:00 - Detailed breakdown: How to fly Space-A (retiree perspective)

36:00 - Family adventures with Space-A travel

40:00 - Planning European travel with kids

45:00 - RV Life dreams and retirement adventures

54:00 - Practical travel hacks: PCH drives, Airbnbs, and more

1:10:00 - American vs European history experiences

1:20:00 - PCS withdrawals after retirement

1:27:00 - Keeping life adventurous post-military

1:45:00 - How veterans can hack the GS hiring system

1:53:00 - Reflections on aging, fitness, and staying active

1:59:00 - Outro and upcoming guest announcement

🔗 Links (FULL URL TEXT — no hyperlink hiding):

Military Retirement Podcast Website:

https://www.militaryretirementpodcast.com

Military Retirement Group on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/981767756191573

Bottom Line Up Front Book (Amazon):

https://amzn.to/4jUiPky

The Green Logbook YouTube Channel:

https://youtube.com/@thegreenlogbook

Military Retirement Podcast YouTube Channel:

https://youtube.com/@militaryretirementpodcast

Some links may result in commissions

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 deployments and missing key life events

🧳 Transition After Deployment: Adjusting from combat to family life

🛡️ Veteran Benefits 101: Starting VA disability claims early and preparing medical records

🐾 New Passions: Why Winway is pursuing a dream in wildlife conservation instead of staying in logistics

🏡 Post-Retirement Jobs: Working at CIF and embracing a low-stress civilian life

💬 Real Talk About Friendships: Rebuilding a social network post-service

✈️ The Importance of Decompression and Vacations: Finally taking that first real vacation after two decades of service

📚 Resources for Retirees: TSP matching, military hotels, and taking advantage of your veteran benefitsTo all the brave men and women out there still protecting our freedom 🇺🇸 🫡 Thank you for your service!

Timestamps:

0:00 - Intro

0:40 - Winway’s background: Infantry to Logistics

2:00 - Why Army deployments were so long

4:00 - R&R experiences in Qatar

9:00 - Reconnecting with family after deployments

12:00 - Being present for major family milestones

17:00 - Life immediately after retiring: first civilian job at CIF

23:00 - Transitioning out of the "always on" military mindset

29:00 - Building a second career and choosing happiness

32:00 - Wildlife conservation goals after the Army

36:00 - VA Disability claims: tips and hard lessons

45:00 - Finding purpose after military retirement

53:00 - The importance of preparing financially for retirement

1:00:00 - Dealing with the weirdness of civilian friendships

1:10:00 - Taking your first real vacation after retirement

1:20:00 - Final advice for transitioning service members

Resources Mentioned:

Book: Bottom Line Up Front: What You Need to Know Before You Leave the Military

https://amzn.to/4jUiPky

Facebook Group: Military Retirement Group

https://www.facebook.com/groups/981767756191573

Military Retirement Podcast on YouTube

https://youtube.com/@militaryretirementpodcast

The Green Logbook on YouTube

https://youtube.com/@thegreenlogbook

some links may result in commissions for the site