Summary

In this conversation, Dave Lakin, the National Director for Veteran Employment at Still Serving Veterans, shares his extensive background in the military and his transition to helping veterans find employment. He discusses the challenges veterans face when entering the civilian workforce, including the need for certifications, the importance of translating military skills into civilian terms, and the support systems available to assist them. Dave emphasizes the significance of crafting effective resumes, overcoming imposter syndrome, and navigating job interviews. He also highlights the reality of career changes for veterans and the importance of creating opportunities and community within the workplace.

Summary

The conversation explores the challenges faced by veterans in engaging with support programs, the mission of a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping veterans, and the various therapeutic activities offered, such as woodworking and boxing. It highlights the importance of community building, accountability, and the evolving needs of veterans, as well as the barriers they face in seeking help. The discussion also touches on the significance of networking among nonprofits and the need for better resources and education for veterans and their families.

Takeaways

Veterans often sign up for programs but fail to attend, which can be frustrating for organizers.
The organization offers various programs, including woodworking and boxing, to help veterans engage and heal.
Therapeutic activities foster camaraderie and community among veterans.
Hunting programs provide a unique outlet for veterans to bond and find purpose.
Acquiring resources for programs often involves networking and community support.
The needs of veterans are evolving, and many still struggle with mental health issues post-service.
Barriers to seeking help include pride and a lack of awareness of available resources.
Transitioning from military to civilian life can leave veterans feeling lost and without purpose.
Accountability is crucial for veterans to fully benefit from programs offered.
Networking among nonprofits can enhance support for veterans and streamline resources.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Veteran Support Issues
02:09 Mike's Background and Experience
04:47 Programs for Veterans: Woodworking and Boxing
07:41 The Importance of Camaraderie and Community
10:14 Hunting Programs and Their Therapeutic Value
13:04 Challenges in Veteran Support and Resource Utilization
15:32 Evolving Needs in the Veteran Community
18:31 The Stigma of Seeking Help
21:01 Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life
23:48 Meeting Veterans Where They Are
26:44 Networking Among Nonprofits for Better Support
27:12 The Importance of Helping Veterans
28:27 Navigating Resources for Veterans
30:26 Building Community Among Veterans
32:34 Support for Veteran Families
35:24 Case Management and Long-Term Solutions
38:44 Addressing Entitlement in the Veteran Community
41:44 Accountability and Self-Reliance
45:09 The Impact of Program Participation
46:07 Sustaining Support in a Changing Landscape
48:00 Collaboration Among Nonprofits
49:19 Community Engagement and Upcoming Events

Summary

In this conversation, the speakers discuss various topics related to military life, health, fitness, and the transition to civilian careers. They share personal experiences from basic training, the evolution of military training methods, and the challenges veterans face when writing resumes for civilian jobs. The importance of understanding military acronyms in a civilian context is highlighted, along with the role of applicant tracking systems in the hiring process. The conversation also touches on unconscious bias in hiring, the significance of awards and decorations, and the frustrations of candidate ghosting during interviews. Finally, the speakers offer resources for veterans seeking assistance with their resumes and interview preparation.

Takeaways

Health and fitness are crucial for maintaining energy levels as we age.
Basic training experiences can vary significantly over the years.
Military training has evolved to focus more on respect and professionalism.
Transitioning from military to civilian life requires understanding how to present skills effectively.
Resumes should be tailored to civilian job descriptions to stand out.
Understanding military acronyms is essential for effective communication in civilian roles.
Applicant tracking systems play a significant role in the hiring process.
Unconscious bias can affect hiring decisions, making it important to present oneself clearly.
Awards and decorations may not translate well in civilian job applications.
Candidate ghosting is a frustrating issue for recruiters and applicants alike.

Chapters

00:00 The Importance of Physical Health
03:05 Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life
06:09 Basic Training Experiences and Changes
09:11 Mindset and Motivation in Military Training
11:57 The Role of HR in Military and Civilian Life
15:00 Resume Writing for Veterans
17:57 Understanding Military Acronyms in Civilian Contexts
28:55 Understanding Resume Gaps and Achievements
34:01 Quantifying Accomplishments for Impact
39:55 Translating Military Experience to Civilian Terms
45:15 The Role of Awards and Decorations in Resumes
49:23 Navigating Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)
56:53 The Importance of Tailoring Applications
01:05:18 Offering Resume Review and Interview Prep Services