It’s the Season 1 finale! Kathleen and Rachel sit down to reflect on the incredible veterans who joined us on Exit Buddy: Veteran Stories to Guide You. From pilots to cyber warriors and nonprofit founders, each guest left us with hard-won wisdom on mindset, identity, resilience, networking, purpose, and navigating military transition. This episode is the ultimate recap: the biggest “aha” moments and the practical takeaways you can steal for your own transition. Whether you’ve been here since day one or you’re just finding us, this is your Season 1 cheat sheet to help you navigate life after military service.

Chapters

• 00:36 – Start planning early and take advantage of transition programs
• 01:13 – Build your safety net before you leap
• 02:08 – Prepare emotionally for the identity shift
• 03:13 – Start soul-searching early — don't wait for transition to happen to you
• 04:32 – Pause and rediscover your identity before jumping into the next chapter
• 05:16 – Your path may change — adapt with resilience
• 06:18 – You can pivot more than once
• 7:13 – Embrace your mistakes as lessons
• 07:59 – Protect your foundation: VA benefits & mental health
• 09:11 – Jobs are replaceable, but family experiences are not
• 09:55 – Ask for help early and often
• 11:27 – Mentorship takes many forms
• 12:23 – Find/build your tribe
• 13:29 – Translate your leadership experience into civilian terms
• 14:12 – Passion plus preparation creates opportunity
• 16:30 – Build your skills, grow your network, and take your shot

Thank you to our honorary Exit Buddies who trusted us with their stories this season — you made Season 1 unforgettable.

Thank you to YOU, our listeners, for walking this road with us, sharing episodes, and building this community.

We’ll be back with Season 2 for more stories and transition truths to guide the way. See you on the other side!

Send us a text

Visit us at https://exitbuddy.buzzsprout.com to learn more about the show.

Have feedback or questions for us? Email us at ashleyjones.creative@gmail.com.

In this episode of Exit Buddy: Veteran Stories to Guide You, we meet Stephanie West, a Navy veteran who charted a course from the supply lines of the military to the heart of Starbucks operations. She discusses joining the Navy at 17 through the Buddy Program, how she turned night classes into degrees (all the way to an MBA), how her passion for Starbucks’ business model became her civilian north star, and why she’s still thriving there a decade later. Stephanie shares candid stories and tips for navigating culture shock, imposter syndrome, and networking. Whether you’re looking for proof that military logistics translates directly to corporate America or simply need a dose of “yes, it can work out,” Stephanie’s story inspires.

Chapters

• 01:13 - Joining the Navy at 17 With a Buddy
• 02:40 - Stephanie’s Pursuit of Education
• 05:15 - Falling in Love with Starbucks While Stationed in Italy
• 06:55 - Stephanie’s Starbucks Role: Keeping 10,000+ Stores Brewing
• 08:32 - Culture Shocks: Language, Insurance & Leadership Style
• 11:00 - Why She Stayed 10 Years (and How You Can Too)
• 14:53 - Giving Back with Compass USA
• 18:42 - Stephanie’s Simple Secret: Networking Is Just Talking
• 22:07 - Final Advice: Stay Open-Minded & Give It a Real Chance

Key Takeaways

• Military Logistics = Corporate Gold: Supply Corps skills like Stephanie’s experience with parts, budgets, and feeding the troops translate well to the civilian world. Don’t underestimate how your skills can be leveraged post-service.
• Give Yourself Time to Assimilate: Imposter syndrome is real, but rushing out of a new job in the first year robs you of the chance to grow into the role. Seek out veteran networks, resource groups, or buddy systems in your workplace to ease the transition.
• Networking Doesn’t Have to Be Scary: Networking is as simple as a conversation. Start with your family, your old shipmates, or the person next to you at an event. “It’s really not scary—it’s just talking,” encourages Stephanie.
• Give as You Go: Volunteering and mentoring aren’t just ways to serve—they also help you build new purpose and connections as you carve out your next chapter.
• Stay Flexible: Your first civilian role may look different from what you expect. Keep an open mind, be willing to adapt, and let unexpected opportunities become new launching pads.

Follow us for more veteran stories to guide your transition journey, and text this episode to a fellow service member who’s navigating their exit. Until next time, keep brewing your next chapter.

Send us a text

Visit us at https://exitbuddy.buzzsprout.com to learn more about the show.

Have feedback or questions for us? Email us at ashleyjones.creative@gmail.com.

In this episode of Exit Buddy: Veteran Stories to Guide You, retired US Air Force pilot Jessica Ruttenber shares her remarkable journey navigating—and ultimately transforming—the world of military aviation. Jessica recounts battling physical and cultural obstacles to become a pilot, and how she advocated for lasting policy changes at the Pentagon. She discusses her transition with SkillBridge, the mental gymnastics of leaving military service, and the importance of documenting injuries and seeking mental health support. Jessica also reveals how following her passion took her from a corporate role to founding a nonprofit that empowers the next generation of aviators. Her story is one of resilience, advocacy, and purpose, offering insights for anyone facing career transitions or striving to create meaningful change.

Chapters

• 01:53 - Jessica’s Fight to Get into the Cockpit
• 07:30 - Advocating for Women Pilots at the Pentagon
• 10:41 - Transitioning with the SkillBridge Program
• 13:07 - Finding Purpose with Level Up Aviation
• 15:38 - Importance of Documenting Injuries for VA Benefits
• 17:36 - Connecting with Veterans Post-Service
• 19:38 - Advice on Addressing Mental Health

Key Takeaways

• Break Barriers with Persistence: Jessica’s story of overcoming obstacles, like the half an inch in height that stood between her and her aviation dream, reminds us that determination can rewrite the rules.
• Safeguard Your Future: Let your ego go and document your injuries now, as this is critical for obtaining VA benefits and the support you deserve down the road. Be sure to prioritize your emotional well-being in addition to your physical health, and reach out for support when needed.
• Find Your Passion and Mission Post-Service: Transitioning out of the military can mean a loss of identity and tribe, but finding a new mission is essential, just as Jessica did with her nonprofit work. Don’t be afraid to pivot toward what truly inspires you.
• Build a Network of Exit Buddies: Surround yourself with others who have already navigated the transition to civilian life. If you don’t know where to start, find someone online from your unit. Even if you haven’t talked to them in several years, Jessica encourages you that they will be happy to share their experience with you.

Follow us for more veteran stories to guide your transition journey, and text this episode to a fellow service member who’s navigating their exit. Until next time, keep lifting others as you soar.

Send us a text

Visit us at https://exitbuddy.buzzsprout.com to learn more about the show.

Have feedback or questions for us? Email us at ashleyjones.creative@gmail.com.

Join Kathleen Smith and Rachel Bozeman as they welcome Tom Eston, a Marine turned cybersecurity trailblazer, podcaster, and mentor, for an inspiring dive into his journey. From his infantry days to carving out a security career, Tom shares how curiosity, self-discipline, and determination fueled his rise. Tom emphasizes the importance of mentorship, continuous learning, and leveraging military-learned skills in the corporate world. His story is a testament to the potential within every veteran to reinvent themselves and excel in new fields.

Chapters

• 01:44 - Tom’s Marine Corps Infantry Days
• 03:07 - The Spark of a Tech Career
• 06:56 - Leaping into Security with a Real Estate Gig
• 09:58 - Advice on Seeking Mentorship
• 13:03 - Military Skills in the Corporate World
• 15:48 - The Birth of a Podcasting Passion
• 17:47 - Overcoming Nerves to Take Risks
• 20:38 - Advice to His Younger Self

Key Takeaways

• Self-Discipline Drives Success: Continuous learning and personal motivation are critical for career transformation. Your ability to set goals, stay focused, and push through challenges determines your professional growth.
• Mentorship Comes in Many Forms: You don’t need a formal mentorship program to seek guidance. A single conversation or brief connection can provide pivotal insights for your career journey.
• Skills Can Be Learned, Character Cannot: Technical skills can be taught, but the leadership, adaptability, and problem-solving skills gained in military service are irreplaceable and set you apart.
• Network and Share Your Knowledge: Attend conferences, start a blog, and put yourself out there so people can learn who you are. As Tom learned, sharing your knowledge can help educate you in return.

Follow us for more veteran stories to guide your transition journey, and text this episode to a fellow service member who’s navigating their exit. Catch you next time!

Send us a text

Visit us at https://exitbuddy.buzzsprout.com to learn more about the show.

Have feedback or questions for us? Email us at ashleyjones.creative@gmail.com.

Join Kathleen Smith and Rachel Bozeman as they welcome Rob Fuller, a U.S. Marine veteran, cybersecurity leader, and community founder, for a raw look at his journey. From blowing up 300 pounds of C4 as a combat engineer to thriving in cybersecurity, Rob’s story takes a sobering turn with his struggle for VA benefits. Impacted by a culture of "toughing it out" and relying on "Vitamin M" (Motrin) instead of documenting injuries, he shares his battle with ongoing denied claims for nerve damage. Along the way, he discusses leadership rediscovery, building the Nova Hackers community, and even his role as a technical advisor for HBO’s Silicon Valley.

Chapters

• 01:59 - Rob’s Marine Corps Highlights
• 04:11 - Transition Shocks and Low Expectations
• 06:58 - Rediscovering Leadership Skills
• 10:19 - Pivoting from Government to Commercial Sector
• 13:43 - Prioritizing Family Over Work
• 17:19 - Embracing the Power of Being Wrong
• 20:00 - Building the Nova Hackers Community
• 25:01 - VA Benefits Warning: The Cost of Toughing It Out
• 29:32 - Technical Advisor Role on Silicon Valley
• 32:48 - Closing Thoughts and Marine Shoutout

Key Takeaways

• Document Everything: Don’t simply “tough it out”—get seen for everything. An injury may not bother you much now, but it could affect you down the road. Document now so there is a paper trail to refer back to in the future.
• Embrace Being Wrong: Rob has a superpower worth adopting—he doesn’t just mind being wrong, he loves it. When you’re wrong, you’re learning, so don’t be afraid to be wrong so that you can continue to progress and better yourself.
• Prioritize What Matters Most to You: Rob’s decision not to miss his son’s first day of kindergarten reminds us that jobs are replaceable, family milestones aren’t.
• Build Your Tribe: Rob took action when a poorly organized meetup left him wanting more. Despite early setbacks, he persisted, eventually co-founding Nova Hackers, which now has over 900 members.

Follow us for more veteran stories to guide your transition journey, and text this episode to a fellow service member who’s navigating their exit. Catch you next time!

Send us a text

Visit us at https://exitbuddy.buzzsprout.com to learn more about the show.

Have feedback or questions for us? Email us at ashleyjones.creative@gmail.com.

In this episode of Exit Buddy: Veteran Stories to Guide You, Air Force veteran Jaimee Freeman shares her recent military transition experience—shedding her Chief identity for "just" Jaimee after 28 years of service. Jaimee reveals how she pivoted from linguist to Pentagon event planner, turned down a lucrative job upon transition (not allowing fear to make her rush into something), and used networking, skill-building, and a bold proposal to land her dream SkillBridge internship at National Geographic.

Chapters

• 02:57 Military Beginnings and Linguist Life
• 04:05 Pivot to Event Planning
• 09:12 Insights from an RV Adventure
• 11:24 The Courage to Turn Down a Job
• 13:33 SkillBridge with National Geographic
• 18:06 Shedding "Chief," Becoming Jaimee
• 20:05 Finding Identity and Purpose

Key Takeaways

• Start Soul Searching Early: 3-4 years out from transition, make sure you’re asking yourself questions like, What makes me happy? What do I really want to do? And what do I need to do to get there?
• Prepare for a Shift in Identity: Start practicing who you are outside of your rank before your military exit. Jaimee began signing her emails "Jaimee" while still in uniform because she knew one day she would be out of the service and just Jaimee.
• Say No to Fear: Sometimes fear of uncertainty can make you want to accept a job. Pause and really ask yourself if it’s what you want. Jaimee felt that fear, but courageously stuck to her plan instead of rushing.
• Jaimee’s Three Keys to Success: Build your skills, network, and take your shot!

Follow us for more veteran stories to guide your transition journey, and text this episode to a fellow service member who’s ready to design their next chapter. Until next time, keep taking your shot!

Send us a text

Visit us at https://exitbuddy.buzzsprout.com to learn more about the show.

Have feedback or questions for us? Email us at ashleyjones.creative@gmail.com.

Air Force veteran Josh Mason shares his journey of military transition and personal growth on this episode of Exit Buddy: Veteran Stories to Guide You. From cybersecurity to teaching, entrepreneurship, podcasting, and building a chicken coop, Josh showcases the power of creativity, networking, and embracing challenges with a stoic grin. He reveals how strategic outreach on LinkedIn and a willingness to tackle the tough stuff led to unexpected opportunities.

Chapters

• 02:09 Josh’s Pivot to Cybersecurity and Teaching
• 06:50 Transition Journey and SkillBridge Internship
• 08:29 Networking Creativity Lands a Job
• 15:06 Entrepreneurial Ventures Post-Military
• 20:18 Embracing the Suck with Stoic Strength
• 25:43 Parting Advice on Cybersecurity Careers

Key Takeaways

• Embrace the Uncomfortable: As Josh says, nothing’s going to be as uncomfortable as basic training or being deployed was—civilian transitions are just another challenge to conquer. Get creative, step out of your comfort zone, and approach new opportunities with curiosity.
• Network with Purpose: Leverage veteran communities, LinkedIn, and online platforms. Your next opportunity may likely come through your connections, not traditional job application processes. Veterans take care of veterans.
• Continuous Learning is Your Superpower: Whether it’s cybersecurity, entrepreneurship, or building a chicken coop, approach new challenges with a learning mindset. Your ability to acquire and apply new skills is your greatest asset.
• Create Your Own Path: The civilian world isn't prescribed like military life. Be willing to craft unique opportunities, whether through internships, side projects, or unexpected career pivots. Your creativity is your competitive advantage.

Follow us for more veteran stories to guide your transition journey, and text this episode to a fellow service member who’s navigating their exit. Until next time, keep finding ways to endure and enjoy the tough stuff!

Send us a text

Visit us at https://exitbuddy.buzzsprout.com to learn more about the show.

Have feedback or questions for us? Email us at ashleyjones.creative@gmail.com.

Army veteran Daniel Benjamin steps up to the mic to share his military transition story, from 20 years in signals intelligence to a program manager in cybersecurity and healthcare, on this episode of Exit Buddy: Veteran Stories to Guide You. He recounts how the reserves offered a helpful safety net during his transition into contracting, and how his wife’s military transition deepened his understanding of the diverse challenges veterans face. Daniel also discusses his evolution from managing systems to leading people, and his passion for volunteering and uplifting others.

Chapters

• 01:07 From Music to Signals Intelligence
• 02:37 Heavy Lifting in SIGINT Days
• 04:17 Benefits of the Reserves
• 06:24 Finding His Place in Civilian Contracting
• 08:11 From Technical Roles to Program Management
• 09:31 Mentoring Veterans and Uplifting Others
• 14:06 Dollar Signs and Compensation Calculators
• 16:49 Volunteering to Give Back
• 18:07 Daniel’s Advice to His Younger Self

Key Takeaways

• Build a Safety Net: Daniel found some relief as a reservist because it gave him extra access to training and a backup plan should he lose a contract. Having a plan B in case things go awry can ease the transition to the civilian workforce.
• Do Some Compensation Research: Online calculators can help you understand how much your military pay is equivalent to on the civilian side—but location plays a big role in compensation too. Daniel saw that the same position in Virginia had a much higher salary than its Tampa counterpart.
• Get Your Resume Through Pre-Pub Early: Leverage your network to help you translate your resume into civilian terms. Start working on your resume and get it through pre-publication a year out to ease the process.
• Seek Ways to Uplift Others: Daniel finds joy in volunteering and helping others. Consider exploring opportunities to share your experience and support those around you.

Follow us for more veteran stories to guide your transition journey, and text this episode to a fellow service member who’s navigating their exit. Until next time, keep lifting others up!

Send us a text

Visit us at https://exitbuddy.buzzsprout.com to learn more about the show.

Have feedback or questions for us? Email us at ashleyjones.creative@gmail.com.