EP 18: Bringing Valor to the Job: Leadership Lessons from 3 Marine Veterans

Military to Civilian Career Transition Power Hour

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In Episode 18 of the Military to Civilian Career Transition Power Hour, we delve into the experiences of three Marine veterans who have successfully translated the rigor and discipline of military service into thriving civilian careers and we feature one transitioning Air Force servicemember who is just starting her job search.

For our SOUP segment, transitioning servicemember and HR Administrator, Kristen Cropp shares her journey from serving 20 years in the United States Air Force to her current deployment in Germany . Now part of a SkillBridge program through Allegiant Vets, she is focusing on her human resources training to find a job in the US. Kristen reflects on the fear, the hope and the opportunities that face her as she navigates her last duty station OCONUS.
Our expert segment features Sandra Gonzalez, a Marine Corps veteran turned executive coach and vetrepreneur advocate who discusses how she helps clients transition from structured military life to the autonomy of corporate careers and entrepreneurship. Sandra provides actionable advice on overcoming self-doubt and leveraging military precision for business success. Learn more about Sandra at www.sandragonzalez.com
In our 1-4 year veteran segment, former Marine, Justin Griffis recounts his transition during back to the US from Okinawa Japan during the onset of COVID-19 and his subsequent career growth as a project manager and sales professional. Justin emphasizes the value of education and adaptability, and is grateful to the opportunities in a new state. He shares how the Hiring Our Heroes program and continuous learning shaped his career trajectory.
Completing our episode, our 5+ year veteran segment welcomes sales training expert, Donnie

If you or someone you know would like to be a guest on the Military to Civilian Career Transition Power Hour, let us know. Go to www.xchangepodcast.com and click connect. A producer will read your request and get back to you. Thanks for your support!

Learn more about host, Cheryl Cross and her book, "CIVILIAN MISSION: The 3-Year Guide for Military Professionals Planning Civilian Careers" available for order online.

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X CHANGE Podcast Series will showcase future podcasts on exciting topics. You're listening to our inaugural series, The Military to Civilian Career Transition Power Hour; your boot camp for conquering civilian terrain.

Join Us: Hear from those on the journey, those who've completed it, and those still transitioning. The civilian career landscape doesn't need to be a minefield. We provide support to keep you moving forward.

Our Goal: Empower you with insights from 100 voices, across 25+ impactful episodes. With three guests and one expert per hour, you'll gain actionable guidance for your civilian career journey.
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Chapter

1. Show Opener - Welcome to the Military to Civilian Career Transition Power Hour (00:00:00)

2. In the Soup with Kristen Cropp (00:00:43)

3. Expert Segment with Sandra Gonzalez (00:19:24)

4. 1-4 Year Veteran Segment with Justin Griffis (00:45:22)

5. 5+ Year Veteran Segment with Donnie Boivin (01:10:15)