Veteranology #14 – Travis Blair

This episode of Veteranology is with Travis Blair, an Army with 10 years active duty and now serving his second year in the Texas National Guard. Travis is currently a special education teacher at the elementary level and has now written his first children’s book. When I asked him if he considered himself an entrepreneur he said he liked to use his father’s words and calls himself a “Stuff-Maker.”

Travis got told “no” a lot while trying to publish his first book and he shares his wisdom about persistence and determination. My favorite quote from the episode: “But if you feel it’s something that you want, do not let anyone take it from you.”

Travis also shares his belief in the importance of community and urges veterans to not only tend to their military relationships on social media but to put effort into building and fostering new relationships in your local area.

If you’d like to help fund his Kickstarter there are still a few days left to get yourself an early copy of his book:  https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/2140811709/the-knitting-chicken

If you would like to reach out to Travis you can do so on Twitter: @Zarf

Intro Links:

Inkfidel: www.inkfidel.com

Don’t forget to use coupon code Veteranology at checkout for 10% off your order!

Veteranology survey: http://goo.gl/forms/s79vY9BBGJ

Veteranology #13 – Stop Soldier Suicide

Retired Army Lt. Col. Jason Roncoroni joins me on Veteranology to talk about the non-profit Stop Soldier Suicide. Jason joined the organization last year as serves as their executive director. Stop Soldier Suicides takes a holistic approach to helping veterans battling anxiety, PTS, and suicidal thoughts.

Through a comprehensive communication plan and supporting caseworker network the veterans they serve are contacted on a regular basis to ensure their safety, well-being, and personal growth. Their goal is an amazing one: To not exist in 10 years or less, because the mission of finding the best solution to the veteran suicide rate has been found.

Jason also shares his personal story and discusses in detail the anxiety and depression he felt leave the service and his path to healthy and fulfilling life.

If you are, or know, a veteran in need of assistance you can call them at 1-844-889-5610

Links from the show:

StopSoldierSuicide.org

Book:  What it is Like to Go to War by Karl Marlantes

Book: The Hero with a Thousand Faces by Joseph Campbell

Book: Once an Eagle by Anton Myrer

Links from the Intro:

Inkfidel: www.inkfidel.com

Don’t forget to use coupon code Veteranology at checkout for 10% off your order!

Veteranology survey: http://goo.gl/forms/s79vY9BBGJ

Veteranology #12 – Eric Wright of Vets2PM

Dr. Eric Wright

Dr. Eric Wright

I get on the mic to speak with Dr. Eric Wright, PhD, PMP, and MPM.  Eric is a navy veteran who eats, sleeps, and breathes project management.  He and his partner, retired Marine Master Gunnery Sergeant Tim Dalhouse have created one of the most comprehensive programs for veterans looking to pursue a career leading projects and people in the civilian sector, Vets2PM.

Vets2PM’s mission is to help military veterans become project managers by inspiring them about the incredible value of their military experience to the lucrative field of project management, training them how to manage civilian projects and earn professional certifications, and preparing them to connect with employers who value their experience and expertise.

Logistics, Intelligence, Admin, and…Combat Arms.  If you’ve planned, executed, or briefed missions in the military than you probably have what it takes to get your Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.

Links from the show:

Vets2PM.com

Project Activities explanation for the PMI application

Links from the Intro:

Inkfidel: www.inkfidel.com

Don’t forget to use coupon code Veteranology at checkout for 10% off your order!

Veteranology survey: http://goo.gl/forms/s79vY9BBGJ

Veteranology #11 – David Shandera

Former Navy Corpsman (Greenside) David Shandera and I discuss his transition from the medical side of the military into the civilian medical field.  David lays out his advice for other veterans wanting to do the same.  He also gives specific advice for all veterans leaving the service on how to stay healthy and keep a positive outlook on life outside the military.

We also discuss the challenge and prestige of being a 19 year old Navy Corpsman with the responsibility of keeping all those around you healthy and safe, some of the negative situations that can cause a veteran to want to leave the military, and the initial pitfalls a veteran can face during their first year out of the service.

 

Show links:

Inkfidel: www.inkfidel.com

Don’t forget to use coupon code Veteranology at checkout for 10% off your order!

Veteranology survey: http://goo.gl/forms/s79vY9BBGJ