How can military veterans successfully transition their leadership skills and experiences into thriving corporate careers?

In this speaker series conversation, host Zack Knight talks with Gabe Soltero, a former Navy pilot turned program manager for military hiring at Home Depot. Gabe shares his journey from a 25-year military career to the corporate world, offering valuable insights on the challenges and opportunities facing veterans in transition. The conversation delves into the importance of adapting communication styles, leveraging transferable skills, and the role of support networks in successful career transitions. Gabe also highlights Home Depot's commitment to veteran hiring and retention, shedding light on innovative programs and policies that support military families.

[00:00 - 05:44] From Navy Wings to Corporate Ladders: A Pilot's Journey

• Gabe Soltero's 25-year Navy career and passion for flying
• The compelling recruitment pitch that led him to choose the Navy
• Transition from ROTC to flight training and living the dream

[05:45 - 14:32] Charting the Course: Career Path in Naval Aviation

• The rigid yet diverse career progression in the Navy
• Balancing technical skills with leadership responsibilities
• The importance of people and leadership in military retention

[14:33 - 20:58] Landing in Atlanta: Navigating the Civilian World

• The challenges of transitioning from military to civilian life at 47
• Exploring opportunities in Atlanta's corporate landscape
• Learning to translate military experiences for civilian audiences

[20:59 - 24:35] Home Depot's Veteran-Friendly Initiatives: More Than Just Hiring

• Gabe's journey to finding his place at Home Depot
• The company's impressive veteran hiring statistics and retention strategies
• Home Depot's approach to fostering career growth for veterans

[24:36 - 28:55] Mastering the Art of the Humble Brag: Veteran's Guide to Self-Promotion

• The importance of smiling and approachability in job searches
• Learning to speak in terms of "I" instead of "We"
• Tailoring military experiences to civilian job requirements

[28:56 - 39:46] The Backbone of Service: Family Support in Military Transitions

• The crucial role of spousal and family support during career transitions
• Involving family members in decision-making processes
• Balancing military service with family unity

Key quotes:

"When you transition, you need to start talking about the I. And veterans struggle with that." - Gabe Soltero

"Master the art of the humble brag.” Gabe Soltero

The Tactical Leader is powered by Advancing the Line for Veterans, a 501c3 supporting veteran professional development. If you or someone you know is passionate about supporting the veteran community, please head over to ATLVets.org/22aday and take action to support our veterans.

How can a national organization like Tunnel to Towers effectively collaborate with local communities to combat veteran homelessness and provide sustainable support?

Zack Knight sits down with Lynda Cox, the VP for Development and Government Affairs at the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, they discuss the organization's mission to eradicate veteran homelessness and provide comprehensive support through their national case management network. Lynda shares the foundation's humble beginnings, inspired by the heroic actions of firefighter Stephen Siller on 9/11, and how it has grown to help veterans and first responders nationwide. She emphasizes the importance of collaborating with local service providers and understanding the unique needs of each community to address the root causes of homelessness effectively. Throughout the conversation, Zack and Lynda highlight the role of organizations like Tunnel to Towers and Advancing in Line in providing holistic support, from housing to workforce development and entrepreneurship opportunities.

[00:00 - 07:06] Advancing in Line's Mission and Growth

• Update on Advancing in Line's recent initiatives, including the VetOps program for professional development
• Advancing in Line celebrates its one-year anniversary as an official 501(c)(3) organization
• Tunnel to Towers Introduction

[07:07 - 13:26] The Beginnings of Tunnel to Towers

• Tunnel to Towers was founded in memory of firefighter Stephen Siller, who lost his life on 9/11
• The foundation initially focused on supporting widows and orphans created that day
• Tunnel to Towers expanded its mission to help injured veterans and first responders

[13:27 - 20:10] Eradicating Veteran Homelessness: A Bold Mission

• Tunnel to Towers declared its mission to eradicate veteran homelessness
• The foundation has helped over 4,000 veterans and their families come off the streets in the last two years
• Lynda emphasizes the importance of public-private partnerships and collaborating with local communities

[20:11 - 31:12] The Power of the National Case Management Network

• Tunnel to Towers' national case management network
• The network consists of over a thousand service providers nationwide, addressing veterans' specific needs
• Lynda highlights the importance of not just providing housing, but also addressing the root causes of homelessness

[31:13 - 37:22] Translating Military Experience to Civilian Success

• Veterans often struggle to translate their military experience to the civilian world
• Zack and Lynda discuss the challenges of transitioning from the military to civilian life
• Tunnel to Towers aims to provide holistic support, including workforce development and self-actualization

Key Quotes:

"The very least we can do is make sure that you have dignity and security for the rest of your life." - Lynda Cox

"There's so much opportunity in this room to take action, to take the next step, to advance the line" - Zack Knight

The Tactical Leader is powered by Advancing the Line for Veterans, a 501c3 supporting veteran professional development. If you or someone you know is passionate about supporting the veteran community, please head over to ATLVets.org/22aday and take action to support our veterans.

How can faith and resilience help transform personal tragedies into opportunities for growth and service to others?

In this Tactical Friday, host Zack Knight welcomes back Lindsey Graham, known as the Patriot Barbie, to discuss overcoming adversity and finding purpose through faith. Lindsey shares her journey of resilience, detailing how she navigated through dark times and rediscovered her identity. The conversation delves into the importance of prayer, understanding life's challenges as part of a greater plan, and using past experiences to serve others. Zack and Lindsey explore themes of trust in God, the value of relationships, and the power of conviction in one's beliefs. They also discuss the importance of aligning with like-minded individuals and using one's talents and experiences for a greater purpose.

[00:00 - 05:44] The Power of Faith in Adversity

• Prayer is crucial when facing tragedy or trauma.
• Trusting in a higher purpose can provide comfort and direction.
• Shifting from asking "why me?" to "show me why" can be transformative.

[05:45 - 09:07] Finding Meaning in Life's Challenges

• Every experience, good or bad, can serve a greater purpose.
• Writing down life experiences can reveal patterns and lessons.
• Personal struggles can become powerful tools for helping others.

[09:08 - 11:16] The Ripple Effect of Our Actions

• Our experiences prepare us for future challenges and opportunities.
• Seemingly negative events can lead to positive outcomes for others.
• Embracing one's story can inspire and help those facing similar struggles.

[11:17 - 12:09] Building Relationships and Standing Firm in Beliefs

• Forming relationships with like-minded individuals is crucial for success.
• Conviction in one's beliefs can be challenging but rewarding.
• Aligning with those who share your values is important in business and life.

[12:10 - 16:05] Serving a Greater Purpose

• Using talents and resources to serve others creates meaningful impact.
• Personal struggles can become the foundation for helping others.
• True fulfillment comes from serving a purpose beyond oneself.

Key Quote:

"Everything in your life has played a purpose.” - Lindsey Graham

Connect with The Patriot Barbie:

Website: https://patriotbarbie.com/

Instagram: @the.patriot.barbie

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The Tactical Leader is powered by Advancing the Line for Veterans, a 501c3 supporting veteran entrepreneurship. If you or someone you know is passionate about supporting the veteran community, please head over to ATLVets.org and get involved!

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