Life After The Military - Colonel (Ret) Fran Trentley
In the latest episode of Life After the Military, COL (Ret) Fran Trentley provides spot-on guidance and advice for transitioning veterans. Listen to Fran describe his challenges with the transition process and upgrading the communications infrastructure at the White House Communications Agency in support of the President of the United States.
You’ll also learn about the techniques he used to decide to work for Akamai Technologies for over 15 years – he did his homework and made a great decision! Listen and learn from Fran.
Fran’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frantrentley/
0:00 Lee opens the podcast
00:31 Lee introduces Fran Trentley
02:51 Fran describes how his military service shaped him
26:35 Fran talks about upgrading the communications capabilities of the White House Communications Agency in support of the President of the United States
43:40 Fran shares his transition experience, creating evaluative criteria, gives examples of risk and reward, and provides great perspective for others going through the process
54:00 Fran reinforces the need to evaluate an organization’s leadership team and culture before you decide to join them
58:22 Fran describes why and how he worked for Akamai Technologies for 15 years
1:06:22 Fran shares how he applied the leadership and team building skills he honed while in the military to create success at Akamai
1:17:55 Fran provides insight into the corporate advisory work he does with Squirrel Compliancy Solutions
1:22:20 Lee gives Fran his book titles
1:24:10 Fran talks about how he manages and strengthen his mental fitness
1:32:00 Lee closes out the episode
A Story of Fortitude, Purpose & Joy
Lauri Burns & Peter Olsen share with us the amazing journey of how they survived and thrived despite their horrific childhoods, how they found purpose and joy helping others like them, and how their lives divinely intersected. They walk us through their discovery of how their experiences should have left them wanting to quit life but ultimately gave them purpose and joy.
Guests Social Media Links:
Lauri Burns
Website: https://theteenproject.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauriBurnsTeenProject/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/theteenproject
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theteenprojectca/
Peter Olsen
Website: https://www.camdennewjournal.co.uk/article/arsenal-fan-sends-money-home-to-fund-lorry-load-of-food
Podcast: https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/volume-up/episode-6-peter-olsen-VCcPrEm52z4/
Key Takeaways:
0:00 Intro
1:47 Lauri shares a little bit of background about herself, where she came from to where she is now and her journey in founding The Teens Project
20:35 Peter shares his story, how he lives in Hong Kong but he’s from London, how he meet Lauri, why he does what he does and his journey to success
35:58 Lauri talks about why she feels that she had to go through what she had gone through as a teen to prepare her for what she is doing now
50:01 Lauri talks about the best way that people with the resources can also contribute in doing a noble thing to the world
51:06 Peter talks about why it is important to also help drug addicts and foster kids because most of them will become successful when helped
52:44 Lauri explains why we should not give up when faced with challenges, but let them inspire us to do well and be successful
WIN: Championship Traits for Life - Ryan Whitney
Which would you rather have: a long career as a pro-athlete or the #1 podcast in your sport in the world? Ryan Whitney accomplished both, through an NHL career and co-hosting Barstool Sports Spittin Chiclets.
In this episode of WIN: Championship Traits For Life, Ryan dives deep with us into his NHL career and the ups and downs that players experience as pro athletes. We also speak about some of the leaders that have shaped him throughout his life and also the keys to creating not just a winning organization in sports, business, and podcasting, but one where people can thrive continually.
Ryan discusses his hockey development through school and how it impacted his NHL career: 1:32
Ryan shares why culture is so important to sports and business: 6:56
Ryan talks about how he learned to overcome his adversities: 12:38
Ryan talks about being selfless: 17:30
Ryan shares stories of the leaders he had and learned from during his NHL career: 21:47
Ryan talks about being an authentic leader: 28:20
Ryan touches how organizations can change to allow their players (or workers) to reach their full potential: 30:05
Ryan comments on how understanding the motivation of players can help inspire them to their maximum performance: 36:55
Ryan discusses what skills he learned from his professional and youth hockey career and applied to Spittin’ Chiclets: 47:09
Life After The Military - Dr. Stacey Dixon
In the latest episode of Life After the Military, Dr. Stacey Dixon talks about her service in the United States Marine Corps as a Meteorology and Oceanography Officer, her challenging transition after an unforeseen medical retirement, and the passionate and fulfilling work she does in the education field. As the Director, Veterans and Military Program with National Louis University, Dr. Dixon helps student veterans adjust to the campus environment to build and execute their plan for their future.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-stacey-dixon-6a097a156/
National Defense University Veteran and Military Program: https://nl.edu/student-services/veterans-and-military-support/
Student Veterans of America: https://studentveterans.org/
0:00 Lee opens the podcast
00:50 Lee introduces Stacey Dixon
01:50 Stacey describes how her military service shaped her
09:32 Stacey talks about her transition experience and provides great perspective for others going through the process
20:11 Stacey shares her challenge with being medically discharged from the Marine Corps
25:35 Stacey talks about her decision to pursue a financial advisory career with Edward Jones
30:40 Stacey explains why she made a career change to go into the educational field with the Noble Network of Charter Schools and Junior ROTC in the greater Chicago area
36:58 Stacey describes why she pursued a career as a certified professional coach
47:00 Stacey shares some stories about young men and women that she coached and mentored
55:19 Stacey talks about her role and shares some stories as the Director, Veterans and Military Program with the National Louis University (NLU) system
1:04:50 Stacey describes how the NLU staff handles student veterans and their specific needs and challenges
1:12:02 Lee gives Stacey her book titles
1:14:00 Stacey talks about her challenges with mental fitness, being a woman in the Marine Corps, and how she handled them
1:27:34 Lee closes out the episode
Staying Present in a World of Distractions
Beth Shaha, Certified Life Coach and Founder of The Grounded Canary joins us again to share some great insights and wisdom around how to stay present in a world of distractions. Beth helps us to see that we have a choice to live in the present moment. Instead of worrying about the past or future, Beth guides us through finding freedom in living in the moment.
Guests Social Media Links:
Website: https://www.thegroundedcanary.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-shaha-4aa96095/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegroundedcanary/?hl=en
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegroundedcanary/
Email: beth@thegroundedcanary.com
Key Takeaways:
0:00 Intro
2:21 Beth talks about the importance of being present and mindful, some of the tricks to being present, and what happens when you’re in that zone
7:23 Beth talks about the power that our minds have and why it is important to be careful of what we feed our minds
9:55 Beth talks about how people can overcome the internal narrative that they have that there’s a storm in their lives and they can’t make it
12:39 Beth shares some of the tricks that you can use to bring yourself back to the present such as using the alarm clock in your phone
14:26 Beth also talks about how you can use technology to bring yourself back to the present such as Apple Watches
17:27 Beth talks about some of the simple things that we do at home that can help you be in the present
19:54 Beth talks about why appreciating and being grateful for the moment is a bonus to being aware and present
20:29 Beth also shares other things that people can do to help them be in the moment which she also does
24:05 Beth talks about the To-Do list, why it is important to have it, and how you should make your To-Do list
28:23 Beth shares her thoughts on what she feels are some of the things that would make your day fulfilling
30:00 Beth talks about some of the things that she includes in her To-Do list that makes her feel great at the end of the day
32:43 Beth explain why you should always look at things from different angles and not flee away when hard situations come your way
Quotes Mentioned:
“Our body is constantly working for us, not against us.”
“Our body wants what’s good for us.”
“Presence takes slowing down.”
“We can’t do anything about the present, but we can do something about the right now.”
“Whatever the present moment contains, accept it as if you’ve chosen it, always work with it, not against it, make it your friend, your ally, not your enemy, and this will miraculously transform your life.”
“Presence requires practice.”
“If not now, when?”
“Create a space that allows you to look at a situation rather than be in it.”
“An emotion only lasts 90 seconds, the only reason it would last longer is if you continue to re-engage.”
Quote from Transcript
“Create a space that allows you to look at a situation rather than be in it.”
“An emotion only lasts 90 seconds, the only reason it would last longer is if you continue to re-engage.”
A Mental Fitness Journey Through Music with Cecily - Part 2
“It’s not the external gaze that’s defining for you what fulfillment feels like in your life at this moment, it’s all you.” In part two of our conversation with Cecily – a vocalist, writer and healer – she continues to discuss how being a musician challenges and shapes her mental fitness journey. She also dives into reframing our mindset when it comes to social media, how she has built an online community around meditation, the evolution of the meaning behind success and gifting yourself with radical acceptance.
:00 Cecily explains how being a musician challenges and shapes her mental fitness journey
3:18 The theory of impermanence provides a healthier framework for connecting with social media
5:59 Cecily outlines how a new journey into guided meditations has developed successfully online
8:00 Jenn speaks on being yourself and focusing on posting what you actually want
9:35 A hustle mindset can sometimes rob you of balance
14:25 Your definition of success should evolve with your age and mindset
16:15 Aligning with your own personal sense of spirituality and wellness contributes to a balanced, honest life
22:48 Cecily discusses how affirmations help her to flex her mental fitness
23:18 Reframing your mind can get you through tough situations
25:10 Radical acceptance
28:00 Parting words from Cecily
Books Mentioned
The Mastery of Love: A Practical Guide to the Art of Relationship: A Toltec Wisdom Book – Don Miguel Ruiz https://www.amazon.com/Mastery-Love-Practical-Relationship-Toltec/dp/1878424424
The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom (A Toltec Wisdom Book) – Don Miguel Ruiz https://www.amazon.com/Four-Agreements-Practical-Personal-Freedom/dp/1878424319
How to Love (Mindfulness Essentials) – Thich Nhat Hanh
https://www.amazon.com/Love-Mindfulness-Essentials-Thich-Nhat/dp/1937006883
All About Love: New Visions – Bell Hooks
https://www.amazon.com/All-About-Love-New-Visions/dp/0060959479
Quotes Mentioned
“As a normal human being just going through their life, you can be like ‘yeah I’m gonna delete social media apps for a while’, but as an artist you feel guilty.”
“Take away that option of ‘I’m doing this because it looks interesting’… that’s a new type of freedom”
“It’s important to have a practice of knowing that this [social media] is not permanent, for one, it helps you appreciate the moment. ”
“It’s really helpful as an artist knowing that whether I have a new project to post or not, I’m still an important, valuable human being.”
“Focus on your intentions, not expectations.”
“Growth is a pendulum.”
“You have a following. It doesn’t need to be millions.”
“Focus on your core fan base and figure out what you’re offering.”
“You can’t throw balance out the window, when you feed other parts of yourself then you become a fuller human being.”
“Giving your all is not cute anymore. Balance is cute.”
“Your voice can be used in a lot of different ways, it doesn’t just have to be used for music.”
“As you get older, don’t be afraid to redefine what success means to you.”
“It’s not the external gaze that’s defining for you what fulfillment feels like in your life at this moment, it’s all you.”
“Everything has to feel in alignment now, or I just almost can’t do it… I just have to be purposeful in anything.”
“Bigger paychecks, less work.”
“You don’t need to do this much.”
“It’s so important to know how to say no.”
“It’s all about value alignment.”
“I am mighty and unrestricted.”
“It’s interesting how you can reframe a situation that’s kind of sucky at that moment in time.”
“Radical acceptance of the moment.”
“Take a moment today to tell yourself that you’re enough.”
“You’re exactly where you’re supposed to be. All will be well.”
WIN: Championship Traits for Life - Rick Nash
Rick Nash, is a 15 year NHL veteran, former Captain, 5-time All-Star, two-time Olympic gold medalist, and current Director of Player Development for the Columbus Blue Jackets.
This week on WIN, he shares his philosophies of leadership as a teammate, captain, coach, and member of his organization while also telling us some incredible stories of his time in the game.
-Rick discusses who and what he thinks about when reflecting on the honor of having his number retired by the Blue Jackets: 1:21
-Rick talks about his current role as director of player development with the Blue Jackets: 3:36
-Rick shares the challenges he faced as the face of the Blue Jackets when he was drafted: 10:05
-Rick tells the importance of continuing to learn and grow as a leader while leading: 12:50
-Rick shares how he would approach a coach with an uncomfortable situation, as a young captain: 21:00
-Rick discusses culture and how important it is for the success of a team: 24:44
-Rick talks about understanding roles and how important it is to the culture of the team: 36:27
-Rick gives young coaches advice on leadership based on his career as a coach and under multiple coaching styles: 41:00
-Rick defines mental fitness and shares how he trains his: 47:18
Christmas Country Songs
A time of year to celebrate the the music and stories that help everyone thrive.
This time of year can energizing for some and anxiety filled for others. But music for mental wellness can help us all. Country music lovers know this. There are plenty plenty of opportunities to listen to your favorite Christmas tunes with inspiring lyrics and powerful motivation stories.
NAMI's 2016 article "The Impact of Music Therapy on Mental Health" makes some great points ****on the power of lyrics and rhythm for mental health. "Because of its rhythmic and repetitive aspects, music engages the neocortex of our brain, which calms us and reduces impulsivity."
In "How Listening to Music Can Have Psychological Benefits," Verywell Mind's Kendra Cherry (@AboutPsychology) highlights 10 Benefits of Music for mental health. We are big fans of #2 - Music can Reduce Stress!
Bottom line - music for mental health and mental fitness is real. That's why we are proud to welcome musicians Like Jamie Floyd as Pivotal Moments Ambassador.
Jamie Floyd is a singer song writer with a great new music video for the holidays. (find her @jamiefloyd on Instagram). Her premier of “Little Christmas Miracles” music video comes out tonight at 6pmCST/7pmEST on her website officialjamiefloyd.com. You can also listen to “Little Christmas Miracles” now on @itunes, @spotify, and @applemusic.
4 of the Best Sites for Christmas Country Songs
And if you're looking for some new songs to add to your playlist during this joyous, and sometimes stressful season, check out these sites. You'll be warmed up in no time!
The Boot
https://theboot.com/country-christmas-songs/
Taste of Country
https://tasteofcountry.com/top-50-country-christmas-songs/
Country Living
https://www.countryliving.com/life/g2864/best-country-christmas-songs/
uDiscover Music
https://www.udiscovermusic.com/stories/country-christmas-songs/
Life After The Military - Retired Army CSM, Gerald Tyce
Retired Army Signal Corps CSM, Gerald Tyce speaks candidly and transparently shares his challenges with transition to the private sector, overcoming the stress of multiple combat deployments, and how he sought help and mentorship consistently throughout his life to overcome obstacles and achieve success in his military and government contracting career.
DoD SkillBridge Program: https://skillbridge.osd.mil/
Syracuse University Institute for Veterans and Military Families: https://ivmf.syracuse.edu/apply/our-programs/
0:00 Lee opens the podcast
00:35 Lee introduces Gerald Tyce
01:46 Gerald describes how his military service shaped him
09:23 Gerald shares his challenges, advice and stories about transition from the military to defense contracting 16:02 Gerald describes how he was able to take two years to recharge himself and plan for his post military career after retiring from the Army
19:12 Gerald, Howie and Lee reinforce for veterans the need to plan for their transition at least 2 years out and never fear to ask for help
21:06 Gerald talks about his decision to join the Camber Corporation as a government contractor
23:37 Lee and Gerald explain the need to assess and interview the companies you are seeking employment with
28:13 Gerald shares how he prepared himself to succeed in a government contracting business development position and leveraged Camber’s training programs
34:15 Gerald describes how he leveraged free training and certifications with the Syracuse University Institute for Veterans and Military Families
40:32 Howie encourages transitioning military members to take the time to plan for their transition and highlights the value of the DoD SkillBridge Program
44:05 Gerald describes his experience as a Program Director with IAP Worldwide Services
50:40 Gerald talks about his current responsibilities as the Operations Manager for the Enterprise IT as a Service Contract for the Peraton Corporation
55:37 Lee gives Gerald his book title
57:02 Gerald defines what mental fitness means to him, personal and professional challenges he had and what he does to strengthen his own mental fitness
1:05:35 Lee compares the need for mental fitness and recovery to physical fitness and recovery
1:10:29 Lee closes out the episodes
WIN: Championship Traits for Life - Sergeant Major (Ret) Chris "Dutch” Moyer
No team has ever succeeded when those involved are only worried about themselves. It does beg the question though, How do you create a WE over ME mentality for your team?
Our guest today, Sergeant Major (Ret) Chris “Dutch” Moyer will help craft you an answer.
-Dutch takes us through his journey to the military: 3:00
-Dutch defines being a good teammate and explains the importance: 9:25
-Dutch shares his techniques to press forward during adversity: 13:59
-Dutch discusses how he compartmentalizes fear and moves past it during difficult times: 20:43
-Dutch talks about the time spent training vs the time spent working in the military: 33:42
-Dutch shares his keys to leadership success: 46:43
-Dutch defines and shares how he practices mental fitness: 1:00:39
