Today is my first episode where I bring on two guests! Matthew and Shanon are both military veterans and entrepreneurs and have a ton of knowledge to share. We talk about ways to tap into your creative side, tips on setting yourself up when applying to a Skillbridge, and of course, we talk about their platform: Hop on and hold on. There’s a ton of good career advice in this episode, but we also tap into some deeper topics like how your identity is not defined by what you did in uniform.If you’re interested in learning how to overcome challenges during your entrepreneurial journey, or you’re looking to reinvent yourself after getting out of the military, this episode is for you.Topics we discussed:What is Hop On and Hold On?Overcoming challenges during the entrepreneurial journeyHow a values exercise can benefit youTips on submitting a successful Skillbridge requestWatching out for red flags when looking for Skillbridge opportunitiesHow to reach and communicate with your audience“Your identity is not defined by what you did in uniform”Checkout Hop On and Hold On: https://www.hoponandholdon.com/bloghoponandholdon@gmail.comConnect with Takato and share your feedback: WebsiteYoutubeInstagramLinkedIn Episode Music, Episode Artwork

Today I bring on Alexiss, who works in HR but is a multi-talented veteran, parent, and content creator. Alexiss shares her insights into how to find a skillbridge opportunity in a non-traditional route, how to leverage LinkedIn during your job hunt, how to choose between multiple job opportunities, the importance of maintaining your physical health and so much more.  If you’re interested in learning how to build an audience on LinkedIn, how to grow your analytics skills, or learn more about how to combine multiple skill sets into your role this episode is for you. Hope you enjoy it!Topics we covered:Ways to make skillbridge work for youHow to take advantage your activity on LinkedInHow to find your niche community on LinkedInFree certifications to take advantage during your military transitionDay-to-day at a startup working in HRHow to choose which company when receiving multiple job offersWhat parenting can teach you in a professional settingThe importance of physical health when it comes to workConnect with Alexiss on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexiss-tallant/Connect with Takato and share your feedback: WebsiteYoutubeInstagramLinkedIn Episode Music, Episode Artwork

Today I bring on Danae, a leader in data analytics and a military spouse. We talk about why she chose data analytics, the importance of a brag sheet, and regaining your sense of community after a PCS. If you're interested in Data Analytics or want to know how to navigate your career during a PCS move this episode is for you. Hope you enjoy it!Topics we covered:Career conversations for a successful PCSTips on building your brag sheetJoining communitiesRegaining your sense of community during a PCSData Angels, Locally OptimisticConnect with Danae on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danaewhitten/Connect with Takato and share your feedback: WebsiteYoutubeInstagramLinkedIn Episode Music, Episode Artwork

Today I bring on Nicu, a Senior Platform Product Manager. I often hear the question: “how do I get into Product Management?” If you have the same question, Nicu talks about his journey from an E-4 in the Army to his current role as a Senior Product Manager. We also talk about the 5 paths to product, how to acquire the necessary skills to break into Product Management, how his Filipino culture has helped him in his career, and so much more.If you’re interested in Product Management after the military or just want to enjoy some laughs about karaoke this episode is for you. There are a bunch of insights that Nicu shares that apply to all Product Managers even outside of the military. Hope you enjoy it!Topics we covered:Technical skills needed to be a Platform Product ManagerThe 5 Paths to ProductFree resources to get into techHow to figure out what role to pursue after the militaryHow his Filipino background has helped him in his careerTechnical skills needed for Product ManagementNicu's Website with Free Veteran's Resources for Tech: https://www.nicuparente.com/tech-transition-resources/ 5 Paths to product: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/nicuparente_productmanager-productmanagement-activity-7033419996802277376-6Yta?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktopLinkedIn: https://twitter.com/nicuparenteTwitter: https://twitter.com/nicuparenteConnect with Takato and share your feedback: WebsiteYoutubeInstagramLinkedIn Episode Music, Episode Artwork

Today, we're excited to welcome back one of our most popular guests who is returning to discuss some new and important topics. As many of our listeners know, transitioning from military to civilian life can be a challenging experience. It requires adapting to a new culture, establishing new relationships, and learning new skills. In the last episode, we talked about entry-level roles to get into tech, why to always be interviewing, and healthy ways to address imposter syndrome. Today, we're going to explore some new and important topics such as building trust, asking for help, and achieving success in any role. We're thrilled to have Alex back and excited to dive into these new topics that will help you navigate your transition to your civilian career.Reach out to Alex on LinkedInCheck out LifeAt!Connect with Takato and share your feedback: WebsiteYoutubeInstagramLinkedIn Episode Music, Episode Artwork

Today I bring on Abe, a passionate data analyst who has combined his analytic skills with his favorite martial art: jiu-jitsu. We talk about the lessons he learned while being a military recruiter, how he learned his data skills, and how he leverages LinkedIn to reach potential clients and employers.If you’re interested in being a data analyst after the military or just want to hear a really cool story of how analytical you can get with jiujitsu, this episode is for you.Topics we cover:How to translate your skills from being a military recruiter to the civilian worldWhy listening is so importantHow he got into data analyticsPivoting and shifting if a role doesn't fitWhat you a day in the life of a data analyst looks likeHow personal projects can intertwine with your careerThe importance of posting on LinkedInGet in contact with Abe on LinkedIn Instagram: @__abruhham__Check out SubStats!Instagram: @substatsConnect with Takato and share your feedback: WebsiteYoutubeInstagramLinkedIn Episode Music, Episode Artwork

Today I bring on Jeff, who is a decorated Army Special Operations veteran, a business owner, and now an author. We talk about his formula to overcome obstacles during the military transition, his book, how jiujitsu and the military intertwine, and so much more.Check out the video version of the episode on YouTube!If you’re an aspiring business owner and want a glimpse into the mind of a veteran business owner, this episode is for you.Topics we cover:Building a business using your military experiencesHow to overcome challenges during the military transitionThe hardest part about Jeff's transition out of the militaryJeff's personal formula for managing focus and emotionsWays to pivot from one role to another and find your passionFinding the right people for your business and teamsBreaking the rule: Leaders eat lastWhy personalities differences matterYour military history is a part of your identity vs as your identity Jiujitsu is the world's best personality testBeing a hobbyist vs a professionalCheck out the book All The War They WantGet in contact with Jeff on LinkedInFollow Jeff on TwitterConquest CyberConnect with Takato and share your feedback: WebsiteYoutubeInstagramLinkedIn Episode Music, Episode Artwork

Today I bring on Shaymon who served in the Airforce and is now a Salesforce Solution Consultant. He is a 6-time salesforce certified, 3-time trailhead ranger! On today’s episode, we talk about how to learn from failure, what resources are available to learn Salesforce and what the day-to-day might look like working as a solution consultant.If you’re interested in learning more about salesforce or are about all the knowledge Shaymon has learned over the last couple of years, this episode is for you.Reach out to Shaymon on LinkedInLinks to what we talked about today:Salesforce MilitaryFocus On ForceTech Forward (HBCUforce)VET TECVR&ESyracuse - Onward To OpportunityConnect with Takato and share your feedback: WebsiteYoutubeInstagramLinkedIn Episode Music, Episode Artwork

Today I bring on Alex who served in the Air Force and now is a Site Reliability Engineering Senior Manager. Alex found an entry-level role after the military and has gained a ton of knowledge in his journey to a Senior manager.In today’s episode, we talk about a bunch of different things:What is SRE (Site Reliability Engineering)?Healthy ways to address imposter syndromeGreat entry-level roles after the militaryHow to find ideal roles in your careerWays to find mentorshipShould you pick working a FAANG vs other companies?Why you should always be interviewingTechnologies Alex mentioned:Free BSD, PERL, MySQL, Apache, PHP, AWSCheck out Alex's woodworking art at mapsandboxes.comConnect with Takato and share your feedback: WebsiteYoutubeInstagramLinkedIn Episode Music, Episode Artwork

In today's episode, John and Sean go into the weeds of how to be a good leader, how to grow trust with your team, and how you can succeed even in situations with bad leaders. We’ll also take a deeper dive to learn more about the book On Mission and who it’s for, and dig into some of the content.Check out On Mission at OnMissionBook.com and OnMissionLeaders.comConnect with Takato and share your feedback: WebsiteYoutubeInstagramLinkedIn Episode Music, Episode Artwork

In today's episode, I bring on Sean Georges and Dr. John Buford, who have combined over 80 years of leadership experience in the military and outside of the military.In part 1 of our conversation, we talk about authentic leadership vs management, and tactical ways you can make adjustments during your military transition that will make you an even better leader outside of the military. We’ll also get a sneak peek into the book they recently published called On Mission.Check out On Mission at OnMissionBook.com and OnMissionLeaders.comConnect with Takato and share your feedback: WebsiteYoutubeInstagramLinkedIn Episode Music, Episode Artwork

In today's episode, I bring on Cooper, who works in the Learning and Talent Development industry. We talk about how you can take your strengths and apply them in your career and military transition. Cooper has held roles in both the military and civilian sectors teaching people how to be their best and grow their skills. He is also a Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach and if you don’t know what it is, tune in to find out! Hope you enjoy it!Strengths Based Leadership Book - GallupStrengths Based Leadership Book - AmazonEmail Cooper or Connect with Cooper on LinkedInConnect with Takato and share your feedback:WebsiteInstagramLinkedInEpisode Music, Episode ArtworkConnect with Takato and share your feedback: WebsiteYoutubeInstagramLinkedIn Episode Music, Episode Artwork

In today’s episode, I bring on Sasha, who works in the System and Cloud Admin space. We talk about how she found herself in the tech space, how she’s been successful in her roles, and a bunch of other things that give you insight into the sysadmin and cloud admin roles. Don't be afraid to take contracting gigs to find out what you enjoy. Hope you enjoy it!Resources:acloud guruudemyO'Reilly - Free to the military at the MWRATCTS (Army Training & Certification Tracking SystemEmail Sasha at: bowen.sasha@gmail.com or connect on LinkedInConnect with Takato and share your feedback:WebsiteInstagramEpisode Music, Episode ArtworkConnect with Takato and share your feedback: WebsiteYoutubeInstagramLinkedIn Episode Music, Episode Artwork

In today’s episode, I bring on Sara, who transitioned from an MP (or military police) in the Army and now works in WorkPlace violence prevention and threat management. Sarah is also a military spouse and she talks about her experience during her family's multiple moves. It was really cool to hear her journey of how she navigated through multiple different roles after the military and is now working in her dream job. She shares an awesome tip you can apply for your next career fair. For those of you who are in combat arms or a military spouse, this episode is a must-listen! Hope you enjoy it!Connect with Sara on LinkedInContact Sara via EmailConnect with Takato and share your feedback:WebsiteInstagramEpisode Music, Episode ArtworkConnect with Takato and share your feedback: WebsiteYoutubeInstagramLinkedIn Episode Music, Episode Artwork

There are so many corporate fellowships available to military veterans, but do you ever wonder how to set yourself apart from all the other candidates? Are you curious what compensation looks like outside of the military?We’re kicking off the new year with Francis, a military recruiter for Verizon. We talk about his perspective and insights as a recruiter and go in-depth about Verizon’s skill bridge program with Hiring our Heroes. Francis shares a really cool story about how a paratrooper’s experience got them into marketing! Make sure you stick around until the end because we talk about compensation and how to position yourself best when you receive an offer from your future employer. Sit back, relax and enjoy.Connect with Francis on LinkedInConnect with Takato and share your feedback:WebsiteInstagramEpisode Music, Episode ArtworkConnect with Takato and share your feedback: WebsiteYoutubeInstagramLinkedIn Episode Music, Episode Artwork

As a candidate for a job, have you ever wondered what it’s like being on the other side of the application? In today’s episode, I bring on Mike, the Senior Manager of Military Recruiting at Salesforce. I’m excited to share this episode because you’ll hear directly from a recruiter how to set yourself up for success when transitioning to a civilian role. We dive into the details of Salesforce's military training program, what it takes to become a recruiter, and the tactical things you can do to set yourself apart from other candidates. Hope you enjoy it!Resources:Salesforce Military Training ProgramSign up for David's Military Trailblazer Office HoursMilitary Trailblazer Office Hours YouTube ChannelFind Military friendly brandsConnect with Mike via EmailConnect with Takato and share your feedback:WebsiteInstagramEpisode Music, Episode ArtworkConnect with Takato and share your feedback: WebsiteYoutubeInstagramLinkedIn Episode Music, Episode Artwork

Do you want to know what it’s like to be a Product Manager or work in Cyber security? Have you applied to hundreds of jobs and are struggling to find a match? On today’s episode, I bring on James, a Cloud Security Product Manager at a major tech company. We dive into how you can break into Product Management, Cyber Security and how you can overcome challenges during your military transition.Resources:PM Book - Cracking the PM InterviewMedium - PMologyGrow with GoogleSANS VetSuccess AcademyCompTIA Cyber SecurityGI BillConnect with James on LinkedInConnect with Takato and share your feedback:WebsiteInstagramEpisode Music, Episode ArtworkConnect with Takato and share your feedback: WebsiteYoutubeInstagramLinkedIn Episode Music, Episode Artwork

Today's episode is a little different. It's a short episode focusing on mental health, physical fitness, and why it's still important prioritize yourself after the military. I share my journey and experience with mental health and physical fitness.Connect with me and let your thoughts:WebsiteInstagramEpisode Music, Episode ArtworkConnect with Takato and share your feedback: WebsiteYoutubeInstagramLinkedIn Episode Music, Episode Artwork

On today’s episode, Galen, a Japanese American Army Special Forces Veteran joins me. We dive into the details of how he was able to navigate through the muddy waters into his role in the private sector (Operational Efficiency Program Manager).  The resilience you learn in the military goes a long way, especially during your transition into a new role. Galen shares his mindset, how he made his decision to enter the private sector and how he ultimately made his military transition successful.  I didn’t have a chance to meet many Japanese Americans during my time in the Army so it was pretty cool hearing fellow Japanese Americans' success. If you’re on the fence about staying in or getting out you DEFINITELY need to listen to this episode!Resources mentioned during the episode:Commit FoundationFourBlockHire HeroesHiring Our HeroesOnward to Opportunity (O2O)PMP, Agile, Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certificationsSpecial Operators Transition Foundation (SOTF)VeteratiGalen's LinkedInConnect with me and let your thoughts:WebsiteInstagramEpisode Music, Episode ArtworkConnect with Takato and share your feedback: WebsiteYoutubeInstagramLinkedIn Episode Music, Episode Artwork

On today’s episode, Bryce joins me and we talk about his journey from being an Aviation Boatswain Equipment Mate for the Navy to a machine operator for Blue Origin. What really stood out to me during this episode was the journey he took to get to his role. Bryce also shares his experience to maximize your VA benefits and you’ll enjoy a nice laugh near the end of the episode. If you’ve had a tough time finding the right fit or culture at a company or just want to learn more about what benefits are available post military, this episode is definitely worth the listen.Some of the topics we discussed:How he figured out what he wanted to do after the militaryMaximizing your benefits - VA disability rating, VA home loan, GI bill, etcCulture shock in his first job after he left the militaryWhat skills translated over from the Navy to the private sectorNetworking tips and tricksDAV (Disabled American Veterans)VA BenefitsConnect with BryceConnect with me and let your thoughts:WebsiteInstagramEpisode Music, Episode ArtworkConnect with Takato and share your feedback: WebsiteYoutubeInstagramLinkedIn Episode Music, Episode Artwork