Transition Drill Podcast

Transition Drill Podcast - Episode 188 FULL EPISODE ???? Listen on all podcast platforms ???? Watch on YouTube The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life. In this episode, Navy SEAL veteran John Collins shares an unfiltered, gritty look into what it takes to navigate the unforgiving landscape of military life—and rebuild purpose after devastating setbacks. With candid vulnerability, he recounts multiple grueling attempts at SEAL training, the mental resilience following the obstacles put in his way, but this story doesn’t end in defeat. Shipped off to Guantanamo Bay as a "BUD/S dud," John found himself face-to-face with high-level detainees, performing duties he never imagined—balancing human dignity with the reality of national security. Amidst command resistance and peer resentment, he trained in silence, kept his nose clean, and fought his way back into BUD/S and eventually earned his Trident – after being part of 6 different classes. It’s a story of raw perseverance and the kind of internal discipline only military and first responder communities truly understand #transitiondrillpodcast #veteran #firstresponder #military #militarytransition #lawenforcement #podcast #navyseal

Transition Drill Podcast - Episode 187 FULL EPISODE ???? Listen on all podcast platforms ???? Watch on YouTube The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life. In this episode, Rob Poynter, a former law enforcement officer, fitness professional shares his experiences and challenges of life after service. Rob takes us on a journey through his early life, growing up as the son of a homicide detective and witnessing firsthand the burdens carried by those in law enforcement. He opens up about the pull between his love for fitness and health, and the calling to serve—eventually leading him into a career as a deputy sheriff and motor officer. But everything changed after a devastating motorcycle accident left Rob with career-ending injuries. What followed was a personal battle with mental health, identity loss, and transition out of the only life he had known. Rob reflects on how quickly a law enforcement or military career can end and the deep sense of being "cut adrift" that follows. Rob shares how psychedelic therapy became a transformative part of his healing process—helping him confront childhood trauma, the cumulative weight of his first responder experiences, and the mental health struggles that many veterans and police officers silently endure.Rob’s story is one of service, loss, rediscovery, and giving back. Today, he’s focused on supporting others through volunteering and sharing lessons learned about resilience, career change, and post-service purpose. Whether you're a veteran, military member, law enforcement officer, or first responder facing your own transition, this conversation is a must-listen—a candid exploration of trauma, healing, and what it takes to build a meaningful life after service. #transitiondrillpodcast #veteran #firstresponder #military #militarytransition #lawenforcement #podcast

Transition Drill Podcast - Episode 186 FULL EPISODE ???? Listen on all major podcast platforms ???? Watch on YouTube The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life. Ken Davenport, entrepreneur, author, and advocate for military veterans transitioning to civilian lifedelves into the unique challenges faced by military veterans transitioning to civilian life. Drawing from his experience working with veterans at the Armed Services YMCA at Camp Pendleton and leading the nonprofit Mission Edge, Davenport discusses the importance of planning and preparation for a successful transition. He highlights his inspiration from Stoic philosophy, which he integrates into his book, “The Stoic Transition: A Guide: How Veterans Can Thrive in Their Next Adventure,” Ken shares valuable insights on emotional regulation, the pitfalls of transitioning, and the significance of personal fulfillment, offering practical advice for veterans to navigate their post-military careers. Additionally, he discusses the evolving mindset of younger service members and the impact of societal changes on their career decisions. #transitiondrillpodcast #veteran #firstresponder #militarytransition #careeradvice #podcast

Transition Drill Podcast - Episode 184 FULL EPISODE ???? Listen on all major podcast platforms ????Watch on YouTube The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life. In this compelling episode, we dive into the inspiring life story of TJ Webb, a dedicated police officer whose life took a dramatic turn following a life-threatening incident. TJ shares his journey from being a cop to enduring a brutal shooting that left him grappling with significant injuries. TJ talks about his early life in Milford, Delaware, and his passion for law enforcement, which led him to the SWAT team, K-9 unit, and ultimately the Marshals Fugitive Task Force. As TJ recounts the chilling details of the December 10th, 2020, shooting incident, viewers are taken on a harrowing yet compelling journey through his immediate reactions, life-altering injuries, and the path to his incredible recovery. He touches on the physical and emotional toll it took on him and his family, and the grit it required to overcome each hurdle, including grappling with survivor's guilt. TJ's story unfolds further as he discusses the inception of his non-profit, the Fit for Duty Foundation, which promotes physical and mental fitness among law enforcement officers. He also shares insights into writing his book, public speaking, and his plans for future ventures like a home defense consulting business. This episode is a must-watch for veterans, first responders, and anyone seeking inspiration from a story of true resilience, dedication, and the journey to finding a new purpose in life. Join us as we explore the transformative experience of TJ Webb, a man who turned his pain into a mission to uplift and inspire others. #transitiondrillpodcast #lawenforcement #firstresponder #veteran #militarytransition

Transition Drill Podcast - Episode 183 FULL EPISODE ???? Listen on all major podcast platforms ???? Watch on YouTube The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life. On this episode of the Transition Drill Podcast, we sit down with Ajay James, a Retired Navy SEAL Senior Chief, and a man who has lived multiple lives across different professions. His journey is one of relentless pursuit—of challenge, of purpose, and of transformation. From his roots in Trinidad to navigating life in the U.S., joining the military, and eventually becoming a special operations warrior, Ajay’s story is packed with insights for military veterans, first responders, and anyone facing a major career change. #transitiondrillpodcast #militarytransition #military #veteran #firstresponders #navy #podcast

Transition Drill Podcast - Episode 182 FULL EPISODE ???? Listen on all major podcast platforms ???? Watch on YouTube In this episode of the Transition Drill Podcast, Matt Quick, retired E9, shares his journey from a rebellious teenager in Poughkeepsie, New York, to a disciplined Marine, then a career Army Soldier, and now a leader in veteran transition and career coaching. Matt reflects on his early years, his decision to enlist after seeing his brother deploy to Somalia, and how the Marine Corps transformed his life. But when reenlistment quotas forced him out, he made the bold move to transfer to the Army, where he climbed the ranks, serving at Fort Bragg, Fort Knox, Fort Leavenworth, and even the Pentagon. He deployed to Bosnia and Iraq, worked in military retention, and dedicated his career to helping Soldiers navigate military veteran jobs and career change opportunities. Now retired, Matt works with the Project Management Institute (PMI), helping veterans, transition into successful civilian careers. He discusses SkillBridge, military career counseling, networking strategies, and how project management can be a game-changer for those leaving the military. Whether you’re an active-duty Marine, Soldier, Sailor, or Airman thinking about life after service, or a first responder looking for career guidance, this episode is packed with insights on military to civilian transition, professional certifications, and finding purpose beyond the uniform. #transitiondrillpodcast #military #veteran #army #marinecorps #careerchange #podcast

Transition Drill Podcast - Episode 181 FULL EPISODE ???? Listen on all major podcast platforms ???? Watch on YouTube The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life. In this episode of the Transition Drill Podcast, come along for the journey of military veteran, former Army Ranger, and CHP Officer John Wilson. Born into a military family, John’s early years took him around the world, shaping his love for adventure and discipline. Despite initially having no plans to join the military, a chance encounter with a recruiter led him to enlist and earn a place in the elite Ranger Regiment at 3rd Ranger Battalion. As his military transition approached, John faced uncertainty. With the events of 9/11 unfolding, he regretted leaving the Army but ultimately chose a career change into law enforcement. He joined the California Highway Patrol, where his military training and fitness helped him excel in high-risk operations and he found a new mission serving the public alongside fellow first responders. Then came the moment that nearly ended it all—a shooting in the line of duty that left him critically injured. His recovery was grueling, testing him in ways even special operations never had. The mental and emotional toll on him and his family made it even more challenging. But he fought his way back to full duty, ultimately serving until retirement. Today, through his own company CBL Training & Consulting, John focus is to MOTIVATE, INSPIRE, EDUCATE, and EMPOWER professionals and communities with practical lessons that enhance safety, efficiency, wellness, and awareness. This episode is a powerful exploration of resilience, trauma, and finding purpose, sure to inspire veterans, first responders, and their communities. #transitiondrillpodcast #militarytransition #veteran #firstresponder #armyranger #army

Transition Drill Podcast - Episode 180 FULL EPISODE ???? Listen on all major podcast platforms ???? Watch on YouTube The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life. On this episode of the Transition Drill Podcast, Air Force veteran John Galletta takes us through his remarkable life journey, from growing up in a military family to serving his country and transitioning into civilian life. John reflects on his time in the Air Force, sharing stories of global travel, camaraderie, and the challenges of military service. He also opens up about the emotional complexities of transitioning to life after service, including his path to becoming a firearms and concealed carry instructor. John discusses the powerful lessons he’s learned, including how a life-threatening robbery tested his training and left lasting effects on his mental health. Through his story, John offers invaluable transition advice for military veterans, first responders, and anyone navigating their own post-service path. This episode is a powerful exploration of resilience, trauma, and finding purpose, sure to inspire veterans, first responders, and their communities. #transitiondrillpodcast #militarytransition #veteran #military #firstresponder #airforce #podcast

Transition Drill Podcast - Episode 179 FULL EPISODE ???? Listen on all major podcast platforms ???? Watch on YouTube The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life. In this episode of the Transition Drill Podcast, military veteran and retired Navy SEAL Ty Smith shares his extraordinary story of resilience, leadership, and reinvention. From his childhood in East St. Louis, Il., to founding a cutting-edge AI company, Ty’s journey offers inspiration and invaluable transition advice for veterans and first responders alike. Ty recounts the pivotal moments that defined his career and life, starting with his decision to join the military. Inspired by the movie Navy SEALS, he began his Navy journey as military police officer, eventually taking on the rigorous challenge of BUD/S training...twice. His first attempt at SEAL training ended in failure, but Ty returned with unshakable determination and successfully completed his training on the second try. Over the next 14 years, Ty rose to the rank of Senior Chief and led platoons through intense combat. He opens up about his struggles with post-traumatic stress (PTS), traumatic brain injury (TBI), and the transition to life after service. After being out of the military, Ty’s decision to seek help during a personal crisis became a turning point, igniting a journey of healing and growth. Ty also discusses his entrepreneurial path, from founding Vigilance Risk Solutions to creating ComSafe AI, a platform using artificial intelligence to enhance workplace safety. He highlights the importance of mentorship, education, and embracing change as critical elements of success for military veterans and first responders navigating a military transition. Whether you’re a veteran, police officer, firefighter, or EMS professional, this episode offers profound insights into resilience and transformation. Join us for an inspiring conversation about overcoming challenges and thriving in the next chapter of life. This is a must-hear military veteran podcast and first responder podcast episode! #transitiondrillpodcast #militarytransition #military #veteran #firstresponder #navyseal #podcast

Transition Drill Podcast - Episode 178 FULL EPISODE ???? Listen on all major podcast platforms ???? Watch on YouTube The best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life. In this episode of the Transition Drill Podcast, Michael Smiley shares his extraordinary journey from a small-town upbringing on California’s Central Coast to a distinguished career as a first responder and police officer. He candidly reflects on his entry into public safety, starting as a paramedic and firefighter before transitioning into law enforcement, where he served for over two decades, including as a member of a multi-agency SWAT team. Smiley recounts the harrowing 2020 incident in which he was shot during a SWAT operation, the challenges of recovery, and the unexpected struggles with his agency that led to his forced retirement. He dives into the personal and professional toll of leaving a career that defined his identity and shares how he rebuilt his life through advocacy, founding the nonprofit Behind the Public Safety Development Group to support first responders . Today, Smiley combines his lived experiences with his passion for service, empowering others to overcome adversity and find purpose in life after service. #transitiondrillpodcast #lawenforcement #swat #military #veteran #podcast