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Militarily Speaking

Militarily Speaking

By: Armed Forces Bank
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 Militarily Speaking dives into the heart of military life through the voices of those who’ve lived it. Hosted by Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery — seasoned professionals with a passion for serving the military community — the show blends financial insight, real-world experience, and honest conversation. Jodi, a proud military spouse, and Tom bring different perspectives that make every episode both relatable and practical. Each episode, we sit down with veterans, spouses, and leaders who share stories that matter — from the challenges of deployment and transition to insights on careers, family, and finances. It’s about the military journey, told through the people who know it best. And don’t miss our Military Minute, a trivia segment where listeners can test their knowledge of military history, pop culture, and more — with chances to win prizes for you and your favorite charity. Head over to our Facebook page for more info. Season 2 brings even more stories, new voices, and more ways to engage with the community. Follow us on Facebook at Militarily Speaking Podcast and be part of the conversation. Produced by Armed Forces Bank. This is who we are. AFBank.com | Member FDICCopyright 2025 Militarily Speaking Career Success Economics Personal Finance Social Sciences
Episodes
  • The Hidden Network Helping Veterans Build Million-Dollar Businesses – with Joe Reagan of Mt. Carmel VBOC

    The Hidden Network Helping Veterans Build Million-Dollar Businesses – with Joe Reagan of Mt. Carmel VBOC
    Oct 29 2025
    Welcome to Season 2 Episode 3 of the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery In this episode of Militarily Speaking, we chat with Joe Reagan from the Mount Carmel Veterans Service Center. The conversation highlights how veteran service organizations help veterans and military spouses transition to civilian life and launch veteran-owned small businesses, offering critical guidance, funding access, and financial education. “Militarily Speaking” is a podcast produced by Armed Forces Bank that is dedicated to the military lifestyle and all the things that makes the military community who they are. The Hidden Network Helping Veterans Build Million-Dollar Businesses – with Joe Reagan of Mt. Carmel VBOC Joe Reagan, Director of the Colorado Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC), brings over 20 years of experience across defense, technology, and nonprofit sectors. Mount Carmel Veterans Service Center operates under a “no wrong door” philosophy, ensuring any veteran or military family member seeking assistance receives the appropriate financial resources for veterans, mentorship, and guidance to succeed. From Military Service to Supporting Veteran Entrepreneurs Joe’s journey began with a strong sense of duty post-9/11, leading him to serve in the 10th Mountain Division and later transition into civilian life. Today, he leverages his military experience to guide veterans and military spouses in establishing veteran-owned businesses, connecting them to veteran business funding, small business loans for veterans, and other critical resources. Opportunities, Challenges, and Financial Education for Veterans Joe touches on the wide array of services provided by Mount Carmel, including business counseling, networking, and financial education for veterans and military spouses running small businesses. He shares examples of diverse entrepreneurial ventures, from a veteran-crafted doll business to a military doctor using 3D printing for prosthetics, highlighting how access to veteran business funding and proper planning drives sustainable growth. Economic Impact of Veteran Entrepreneurship The VBOC collaborates with similar centers nationwide, amplifying the impact of veteran entrepreneurship on local economies. Supporting veteran-owned small businesses not only creates personal success but also contributes to broader community development, demonstrating the ripple effect of empowering veterans through business resources and financial education. OPLAN for Veteran Entrepreneurs Joe emphasizes translating military leadership strategies into business planning, the use of AI for marketing and operations, and the importance of financial literacy for long-term success. Programs at VBOCs and resources from partners like Armed Forces Bank help veterans and military spouses access small business loans, manage their finances, and confidently grow their businesses. Whether you’re starting a new venture or expanding an existing business, your local VBOC provides mentorship, veteran business funding, and financial education for military families. Reaching out can be the first step toward achieving your entrepreneurial dreams and contributing to the broader veteran community. For more information on these resources, visit the Mount Carmel Veterans Service Center website or find your local VBOC through the Small Business Administration. Military MinuteThe Military Minute giveaway offers listeners like you a chance to show off your military and life knowledge. Winners receive $50 for themselves and a charity of their choice!For giveaway details or to enter, visit the Militarily Speaking Podcast Facebook page and find this episodes’ Military Minute post! After a winning selection, Military Minute participants are eligible for another selection after 12 months. · Last episode’s Military Minute: According to the SBAs Office of Advocacy. How many veteran owned businesses are there in the United States in 2024?· Answer:· This week’s Military Minute question(s):    In what year was the Veterans Business Outreach Center created?· Watch for this weeks’ Military Minute post on the Militarily Speaking Facebook page.· Answer with the correct answer and you plus a charity of your choice can each win $50.· After a winning selection, Military Minute participants are eligible for another selection after 12 months. Tom closes the episode by asking listeners to go to www.afbank.com and subscribe to the show, as well as leave a rating and comment on your favorite podcast platform such as Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Join us to hear how to better navigate your finances, military life, and the crossroads of the two. Visit www.afbank.com
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    43 mins
  • Military to Millionaire! How Veterans Are Launching Thriving Small Businesses - with Brandon Eldridge of Pikes Peak SBDC

    Military to Millionaire! How Veterans Are Launching Thriving Small Businesses - with Brandon Eldridge of Pikes Peak SBDC
    Oct 15 2025
    Welcome to Season 2 Episode 2 of the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery In this episode of the Militarily Speaking podcast, we sit down with Brandon Eldridge, Executive Director of the Pike’s Peak Small Business Development Center (SBDC). Brandon shares how small businesses – especially veteran-owned and military spouse small businesses – can access the tools, funding, and financial education they need to thrive. Learn about the upcoming 18th Annual Veteran Small Business Conference, the impact of AI in business strategy, and the importance of a well-thought-out business plan. “Militarily Speaking” is a podcast produced by Armed Forces Bank that is dedicated to the military lifestyle and all the things that makes the military community who they are. Military to Millionaire! How Veterans Are Launching Thriving Small Businesses - with Brandon Eldridge of Pikes Peak SBDC With over 25 years of management experience in technology, banking, and retail, Brandon has dedicated his career to helping entrepreneurs succeed. Since becoming Executive Director in 2023, he has worked tirelessly to strengthen the Colorado Springs business community. Under his leadership, the Pike’s Peak SBDC continues to empower veteran-owned businesses and local entrepreneurs with free consulting, workshops, and access to small business loans and funding programs. Supporting Veteran-Owned Small Business Growth As Brandon explains, the Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) serve as vital partners for entrepreneurs seeking to start or expand their businesses. From developing business plans and marketing strategies to finding loans for veteran-owned businesses, these centers help transform ideas into sustainable enterprises. The conversation then turns to one of the most common challenges faced by small business owners – access to capital. Brandon outlines how entrepreneurs can leverage veteran business funding programs, community partnerships, and financial institutions like Armed Forces Bank, which supports military banking solutions tailored to business needs. Technology, AI, and Cybersecurity in Business Brandon also shares insights into the growing role of AI and cybersecurity in today’s business environment. He explains how emerging technologies can streamline operations, improve data security, and enhance decision-making. These tools, he notes, are particularly valuable for small businesses looking to scale efficiently – an essential step toward long-term financial stability and independence. Empowering Veteran Entrepreneurs and Military Spouses With Colorado Springs’ strong military presence, the Pike’s Peak SBDC proudly serves veteran entrepreneurs and military spouses pursuing small business ownership. Brandon discusses their upcoming Veterans Small Business Conference, designed to connect veterans with mentorship, networking opportunities, and resources for business growth. These programs often highlight veteran business funding options and practical ways to secure small business loans for veterans looking to build or expand their ventures. For military spouses, Brandon emphasizes the importance of flexibility and resilience, acknowledging how frequent relocations can make traditional careers challenging. Programs like those offered by the SBDC help military families achieve economic empowerment through entrepreneurship. The Future of Veteran Owned Small Business DevelopmentAs the conversation wraps up, Brandon offers his perspective on the evolving landscape of small business ownership. He encourages aspiring business owners to seek out trusted advisors, explore military banking resources, and stay proactive about financial literacy – key elements for sustained business success. To learn more about small business resources, upcoming events, and how to get involved, visit the Pike’s Peak SBDC website. Military MinuteThe Military Minute giveaway offers listeners like you a chance to show off your military and life knowledge. Winners receive $50 for themselves and a charity of their choice!For giveaway details or to enter, visit the Militarily Speaking Podcast Facebook page and find this episodes’ Military Minute post! After a winning selection, Military Minute participants are eligible for another selection after 12 months. · Last episode’s Military Minute: What is the name of the podcast with the most episodes published and how many episodes are there?· Answer: Too Beautiful to Live – 6643 episodes· This week’s Military Minute question(s):  According to the SBAs Office of Advocacy. How many veteran owned businesses are there in the United States in 2024?· Watch for this weeks’ Military Minute post on the Militarily Speaking Facebook page.· Answer with the correct answer and you plus a charity of your choice can each win $50.· After a winning selection, Military Minute ...
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    47 mins
  • Military Family Budgets: Stop Making These Money Mistakes! with Lacey Langford of MILMO Show

    Military Family Budgets: Stop Making These Money Mistakes! with Lacey Langford of MILMO Show
    Oct 1 2025
    Welcome to Season 2 Episode 1 of the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery In this episode of the Militarily Speaking podcast, we sit down with Lacey Langford, host of the MILMO Show and MilMoneyCon, as well as an Air Force veteran, military spouse, and accredited financial counselor. Together we explore the unique financial challenges military families face. From the importance of financial literacy to practical tips for better money management, this conversation offers valuable insights for military members and civilians alike. “Militarily Speaking” is a podcast produced by Armed Forces Bank that is dedicated to the military lifestyle and all the things that makes the military community who they are. Military Family Budgets: Stop Making These Money Mistakes! With Lacey Langford of MILMO Show Lacey highlights the importance of early financial education for the military community, especially for young service members just starting their careers. She explains how resources for veterans and military families must be delivered in engaging, modern formats to truly make an impact. One critical topic she raises is the rise of “buy now, pay later” programs, which she warns can mimic payday loan traps. Her mission is to ensure veterans and military spouses are prepared with the knowledge and tools to make smart financial choices that protect their futures. MilMoneyCon: A Hub for Helping Veterans and Military Families Lacey dives into the creation of MilMoneyCon, an annual conference she founded to bring together financial professionals with military ties. The event creates opportunities for mentorship, career development, and networking—particularly supporting military spouses and veterans transitioning to civilian life. She underscores how important community and career resources are in empowering veterans and their families to achieve financial independence. Memorable MILMO Podcast Episodes Reflecting on her own podcast, the MILMO Show, Lacey recalls impactful conversations, from her grandmother’s stories of wartime financial hardships to practical discussions on building wealth by reducing waste. These episodes serve as reminders of the lasting influence of financial literacy for military families. Air Force Military Spouse Personal Journey Lacey shares her personal journey, from joining the Air Force to her life as a military spouse navigating frequent relocations and career challenges. Her story resonates with countless veterans and military families transitioning into civilian life, showing both the struggles and opportunities within the military financial ecosystem. Supporting Veterans and Military Spouses As the episode concludes, Tom and Jodi ask how listeners can support the veteran and military spouse community. Lacey encourages volunteerism, donations to aid societies, and spreading accurate financial resources for veterans. You can support the MILMO Show by listening wherever you get your podcasts, or the MilMoneyCon by visiting https://milmoneycon.com/ to learn more. Military MinuteThe Military Minute giveaway offers listeners like you a chance to show off your military and life knowledge. Winners receive $50 for themselves and a charity of their choice!For giveaway details or to enter, visit the Militarily Speaking Podcast Facebook page and find this episodes’ Military Minute post! After a winning selection, Military Minute participants are eligible for another selection after 12 months. · Last episode’s Military Minute: What year was West Point established? What is the motto for West Point? And which two U.S. Presidents went to West Point?· Answer: Founded in 1802. Motto is “Duty, Honor, Country”. Ulysses S Grant and Dwight D Eisenhower.· This week’s Military Minute question(s): What is the name of the podcast with the most episodes published and how many episodes are there?· Watch for this weeks’ Military Minute post on the Militarily Speaking Facebook page.· Answer with the correct answer and you plus a charity of your choice can each win $50.· After a winning selection, Military Minute participants are eligible for another selection after 12 months. Tom closes the episode by asking listeners to go to www.afbank.com and subscribe to the show, as well as leave a rating and comment on your favorite podcast platform such as Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Join us to hear how to better navigate your finances, military life, and the crossroads of the two. Visit www.afbank.com
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    52 mins
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