Military Retirement Blueprint by US VetWealth

Mike Wallace and Scott Tucker discuss best practices for optimizing LinkedIn profiles, tailored explicitly to senior military leaders transitioning to civilian careers. With over 30 episodes of valuable content, Mike and Scott delve into tips on setting up your experience section, use the platform effectively for networking, and transition military roles into terms civilian employers understand. They also touch on the Blue Water Network, military retirement strategies, SBP/TSP decisions, and address questions from their audience. Tune in to gain insight into making your digital presence powerful and impactful.00:00 Introduction and Overview03:11 Importance of LinkedIn for Military Transition06:59 Networking and Building Connections11:24 Optimizing Your LinkedIn Profile15:08 Experience Section Best Practices26:55 Translating Military Experience to Civilian Roles41:56 Blue Water Digital Platform45:53 Conclusion and Upcoming Topics This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.militaryretirementblueprint.com/subscribe

Join Scott Tucker, founder of US VetWealth, and Mike Wallace, founder and CEO of Blue Water Advisors, as they dive into optimizing LinkedIn profiles for career progression. They discuss the importance of dynamic profile management, the significance of storytelling in your 'About' section, and the power of having a call to action. This episode also highlights the first-time experience on Instagram Live, insights into the transition from military to civilian careers, and strategies for effective networking through social media. Perfect for military retirees and anyone looking to leverage LinkedIn for career growth!00:00 Introduction and Social Media Experimentation00:59 The Importance of Networking and Career Progression02:35 Challenges in Military Transition08:01 The Concept of a Digital Uniform11:06 Optimizing Your LinkedIn Profile17:23 The Power of Storytelling in Your Profile20:21 Dynamic vs. Static LinkedIn Profiles29:20 Using Tools and Keywords Effectively40:33 Authenticity and Personal Branding42:32 Conclusion and Future Topics This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.militaryretirementblueprint.com/subscribe

Scott and Mike engage in an insightful discussion about optimizing your LinkedIn profile settings. They explore the significance of the 'Digital Uniform' and delve into various ways to enhance online visibility using LinkedIn. Key points include the importance of managing settings like profile visibility, activity broadcasts, and privacy options. They also touch upon the value of the Social Selling Index (SSI) as a tool for measuring and improving profile effectiveness. Join them as they provide practical tips and strategies to make the most out of LinkedIn for professional networking and career growth.00:00 Introduction and Greetings00:11 Upcoming Travel Plans00:43 Series Overview: Digital Uniform01:59 LinkedIn Settings Deep Dive03:53 Optimizing LinkedIn Profile Visibility12:00 Profile Viewing Options25:16 Profile Verification35:02 Social Selling Index (SSI)43:19 Conclusion and Next Steps This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.militaryretirementblueprint.com/subscribe

Mike and Scott dive into optimizing LinkedIn profiles for Blue Water members, focusing on the importance of profile pictures, banner images, and headline alignment. They offer practical advice on using tools like Canva and AI for creating professional visuals. The hosts also discuss the pros and cons of the 'Open to Work' banner and share insights into leveraging LinkedIn's algorithm for better visibility. Additionally, they introduce Blue Water Digital and emphasize the necessity of an active social media presence for career progression. Tune in to learn how to give LinkedIn what it wants and maximize your profile's potential.00:00 Morning Chit-Chat and Health Tips01:26 Introduction to LinkedIn Profile Series02:02 Importance of an Updated LinkedIn Profile03:41 Engaging with LinkedIn's Algorithm05:56 Profile Photo and Banner Image Tips11:15 Case Study: John the Navy SEAL29:33 Using AI for Professional Photos41:35 Exploring LinkedIn Settings and Features43:20 Conclusion and Next Steps This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.militaryretirementblueprint.com/subscribe

Scott and Mike discuss the importance of having a 'digital uniform' for senior military retirees transitioning to civilian life. They discuss the advantages of leveraging social media platforms like LinkedIn for job searches, branding, and networking. Delving into the nuances of its practical use, they emphasize the impact of having an online presence, navigating social media's complexities, and its strategic benefits. They also announced a new mastermind group focused on digital branding and online tools, touching on their upcoming cohort events and personal plans.00:00 Introduction and Background Setup00:47 Making Conversations More Useful02:11 Navigating the Digital Age04:07 The Importance of Online Presence05:29 Challenges and Strategies for Social Media06:39 Understanding LinkedIn's Impact09:35 Engagement and Networking Strategies11:27 Leveraging LinkedIn for Job Search12:33 Building a Digital Uniform16:12 Addressing Social Media Concerns19:19 Practical Tips for LinkedIn Usage26:27 Series Introduction and Future Plans37:35 Conclusion and Upcoming Events This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.militaryretirementblueprint.com/subscribe

In this episode, Mike and Scott discuss the challenges and opportunities of transitioning from a military career to civilian life. They delve into the impacts of digital landscapes on job searches, the importance of building credible networks, and the introduction of new Blue Water initiatives, including a comprehensive 2025 Career Progression Guide and the upcoming Blue Water Digital platform. The conversation highlights the value of leveraging digital tools and networks to ease career transitions and find the right job fit.00:00 Morning Greetings and Setup Challenges00:55 Reflecting on 2025 and Career Transitions03:02 The Importance of Networking and Personal Branding06:48 Introducing the 2025 Career Progression Guide07:21 Virtual Cohorts and Expanding Accessibility14:31 The Role of Digital Presence in Career Progression22:17 Launching Bluewater Digital34:09 Conclusion and Call to Action This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.militaryretirementblueprint.com/subscribe

Scott R. Tucker and Mike Wallace discuss the impending changes and transitions within the military, federal, and corporate sectors. The focus is on how military retirees and federal employees can navigate career transitions, financial planning, and the unique benefits available to them. Experts Mike and Trevor Maxwell share insights on career progression, market analysis, and financial strategies for making well-informed decisions during uncertain times. Whether it's understanding the Federal Employee Retirement System (FERS), handling life insurance options like FEGLI, or preparing for new career opportunities, this episode provides valuable advice for navigating the future. Join us for an in-depth conversation on planning your next steps and securing your financial future.00:00 Welcome to 2025: Navigating Transitions01:05 Career and Financial Planning for Veterans02:12 Federal Workforce Changes and Challenges04:55 Navigating Early Retirement Options06:33 Financial Decisions and Retirement Planning15:29 Life Insurance and Benefits Considerations19:13 Preparing for Career Transitions26:47 Final Thoughts and Advice This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.militaryretirementblueprint.com/subscribe

Scott and Mike discuss key considerations for military retirees transitioning to civilian life. In this episode, they focus on managing the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), exploring retirement fund options, and understanding future financial planning. With insights into whether to leave money in TSP or roll it into other accounts, this discussion offers valuable advice to help veterans maximize their financial security. Tune in for expert advice on planning your next steps and making informed financial decisions.00:00 Introduction and Nicknames00:54 Reflecting on the Past Year01:39 Navigating Military Retirement02:41 Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) Overview05:50 Options for Managing TSP10:26 Financial Planning and Annuities19:26 Career Progression and Financial Decisions31:35 Q&A and Viewer Interaction33:30 Holiday Plans and Closing Remarks This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.militaryretirementblueprint.com/subscribe

Scott and Mike delve into the complexities of transitioning from military to civilian life. With a background of engaging thousands of senior officers and NCOs through the retirement process, they explore each individual's unique challenges. Topics include translating military skills to civilian roles, navigating identity crisis, and building a 'digital uniform'—an online presence that reflects one's professional persona. They discuss strategies for networking, leveraging social media platforms like LinkedIn, and the psychological hurdles of permitting oneself to transition effectively. This episode offers practical advice and insightful discussions to help military personnel make confident, successful transitions into post-military careers.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:21 Understanding Military Retirement01:09 Identity Crisis Post-Military05:17 Navigating the Digital Landscape07:12 The Importance of a Digital Uniform11:21 Networking and Career Transition16:06 Exploring New Career Paths26:44 Strategic Job Searching35:49 End of Year Reflections and Future Plans This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.militaryretirementblueprint.com/subscribe

Scott Tucker and Mike Wallace from Blue Water Advisors delve into the complexities military retirees face during their transition to civilian life. They discuss the vital data collected from over 400 members to help retirees make informed decisions on jobs, financial benefits, and income protection post-military. Mike shares insights from analytics on job landing rates, negotiation success, and the importance of strategic career planning, offering invaluable advice on navigating post-military career transitions.00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Show01:24 Understanding the Blue Water Data Set04:03 Insights from Data Analytics11:18 Key Metrics and Trends18:24 Challenges and Solutions in Military Transition32:13 Negotiation Strategies and Success Rates41:42 Conclusion and Thanksgiving Wishes This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.militaryretirementblueprint.com/subscribe

Mike Wallace and Scott Tucker recreate critical conversations they have with retiring military officers and senior NCOs about transitioning to civilian life. They are joined by Trevor Benitone, a fellow veteran and Air Force Academy graduate. Trevor discusses his career journey, the transition from military to civilian roles, the importance of networking, finding a cultural fit in organizations, and the value of having a supportive network. His first-hand insights into the challenges of military transition and strategies for successful adaptations are invaluable. The episode is filled with actionable advice for veterans navigating their career progression. Don't miss it!00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:59 Guest Introduction: Trevor Benetton03:18 Trevor's Military Background and Transition05:27 Navigating Career Transition07:57 Importance of Early Preparation10:57 Finding the Right Fit14:07 Networking and Mentorship22:14 Cultural Fit and Company Values37:43 Sales and Revenue Generation43:51 Conclusion and Final Thoughts This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.militaryretirementblueprint.com/subscribe

Scott R. Tucker and Mike Wallace discuss the recent Service Academy Global Entrepreneur Summit. With a focus on senior military retirees, they delve into job transition challenges, military benefits, and networking strategies. The episode highlights the importance of tenacity in entrepreneurship, optimal hiring practices, and the vast opportunities in the trades sector. Tune in for key takeaways and inspiring success stories from fellow veterans navigating their entrepreneurial journeys.00:00 Introduction and Channel Growth00:26 Military Retirement Challenges01:25 Insights from the Service Academy Summit04:46 Networking and Building Relationships08:11 Entrepreneurship and Small Business Tips14:49 Opportunities in Trades and Private Equity18:30 Event Highlights and Closing Remarks This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.militaryretirementblueprint.com/subscribe

Mike and Scott discuss the intricacies of transitioning from military service to a civilian career. They emphasize the importance of understanding company compensation structures, the art of negotiating salaries, and the pivotal role networking plays in this process. They also share updates about the Military Retirement Blueprint and upcoming events that aim to support military retirees. Join them for insightful conversations on preparing for job interviews, assessing career options, and maintaining a positive attitude in the face of setbacks.00:00 Introduction and Greetings02:30 Military Retirement Blueprint Updates03:59 Understanding Civilian Job Hierarchies05:22 Navigating Job Rejections16:21 Compensation Conversations37:51 Upcoming Events and Networking43:55 Conclusion and Final Thoughts This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.militaryretirementblueprint.com/subscribe

Scott Tucker and Mike Wallace discuss key aspects of military transition and retirement from a senior leader perspective. Guest Shelby Mounts, a Naval Academy graduate and Executive Director of NextOp Vets, shares his experiences in the corporate world and nonprofit sector. The conversation highlights the importance of planning, networking, and leveraging tools like LinkedIn for military members transitioning to civilian life. Shelby's journey and insights provide valuable lessons for anyone facing similar challenges.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:51 Guest Introduction: Shelby Mounts01:28 Connecting Through LinkedIn03:40 Transition Challenges and Insights05:14 The Importance of Networking07:04 Career Decisions and Family Impact09:51 Post-Military Career Path18:26 Next Stop Vets: Mission and Growth22:43 Leveraging Social Media for Career Growth24:05 Future Plans and Reflections28:09 Closing Remarks and Takeaways This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.militaryretirementblueprint.com/subscribe

Scott Tucker and Mike Wallace discuss the vital aspects of transitioning from a military career to civilian life. The show is targeted at military retirees and those nearing retirement, providing valuable insights on financial planning, career progression, and leveraging the Blue Water Advisors network. They emphasize the importance of involving spouses in the decision-making process and offer techniques for conducting market analysis and job networking. The episode also features a new sizzle reel for Blue Water Digital and highlights from a recent event at the Naval Academy.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:40 Overview of BlueWater Advisors and Military Retirement Blueprint01:13 Organizing Financial Knowledge for Military Transition02:32 Live Trainings and Group Meetups03:28 Importance of Career Progression and Market Analysis05:42 Survivor Benefit Plan and Military Spouse Support08:48 Designing Your Career Progression16:53 Qualitative and Quantitative Market Analysis23:35 Role of Spouses in Career Transition30:43 BlueWater Digital and Networking36:33 Conclusion and Future Plans This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.militaryretirementblueprint.com/subscribe

Scott and Mike dive into transitioning from military life to civilian careers, offering insights and practical advice. The conversation ranges from the significance of early retirement planning, networking, and career transitions to financial strategies such as the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP), TSP, and private insurance options. They discuss the importance of starting your preparation early, handling time-sensitive decisions, and the role of technology like AI in managing tasks more efficiently. Ideal for military members nearing retirement, this episode provides a wealth of information to help navigate the complexities of transitioning to civilian life.00:00 Morning Coffee and September Vibes00:30 Vietnamese Coffee and Pumpkin Spice Debate00:57 Introduction to Take a Knee and Online Education01:55 Military Retirement Blueprint Portal03:41 Networking and Workshops for Military Retirees06:24 Financial Planning and War Chest Strategy11:53 Common Mistakes and Prioritizing Tasks15:11 Transitioning from Military to Civilian Careers23:45 Navigating Military Retirement Decisions25:30 Understanding the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP)26:42 SBP Opt-In and Opt-Out Windows31:21 Health Considerations and Insurance Options37:15 Leveraging Technology for Career Transition42:17 Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.militaryretirementblueprint.com/subscribe

Scott Tucker and Mike Wallace discuss the intricacies of military career transitions. Mike shares his recent experience attending the Tailhook Convention and the significance of networking in transitioning to civilian life. The episode delves into the role of Blue Water Advisors in providing support for military retirees through their career progression and enhancing their network within and outside the defense industry. They also talk about future plans and events aimed at military professionals and unveil key insights into managing career changes effectively.00:00 Introduction and Show Overview01:39 Mike's Recent Travels and Tailhook Experience04:57 The Importance of Networking and Career Progression07:08 Challenges and Strategies for Military Transition09:08 Blue Water's Approach and Future Plans27:42 Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.militaryretirementblueprint.com/subscribe

Join Scott Tucker and Mike Wallace from Blue Water Advisors as they delve into key financial insights and career strategies for military retirees, including managing financial uncertainties, generating and structuring post-military income, and the importance of continuous career evaluation and networking. Scott and Mike discuss experiences from the 2008 financial crisis and offer guidance on navigating economic fluctuations while transitioning to civilian careers. They also highlight the advantages of a war chest strategy and the importance of an agile approach to career progression. Don't miss this in-depth discussion designed to help military retirees maximize opportunities and mitigate financial risks.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:10 Follow Us on Social Media00:54 Addressing Military Retirement Challenges01:49 Financial Uncertainties and Market Insights03:06 Career Progression and Revenue Structuring04:23 Navigating Job Security and Market Changes16:01 Opportunities Amidst Industry Shifts19:03 The Importance of Continuous Networking33:24 Upcoming Events and Opportunities39:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.militaryretirementblueprint.com/subscribe

Join Mike and Scott for an insightful discussion about navigating unique career opportunities. From the world of private equity and startups to the nuances of networking, they delve into the paths less traveled. They share personal experiences and talk about the importance of agile thinking in today's job market. Learn about the experiences of fellow Blue Water members, upcoming events, and the significance of having an LLC. Don't miss this engaging conversation filled with practical advice and inspiring stories.00:00 Introduction and Soda Water Discussion00:35 Weekly Recap and Global Events01:11 TikiBoat Gathering and Networking02:21 Warrior's Tap House Event04:02 Entrepreneur Summit and Networking04:41 Private Equity and Startup Opportunities08:25 Small Business and Side Hustles14:21 Project Management and Leadership16:28 Exploring Private Equity and Networking17:47 Opportunities in Defense Contracting19:38 Agility in the Defense Industry22:10 The Appeal of Startups24:47 Establishing Your Own LLC30:11 Franchising Opportunities31:02 Upcoming Networking Events32:09 Career Progression Cohort34:13 Weekly Discussions and Future Plans This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.militaryretirementblueprint.com/subscribe

Special guest Craig Snyder joins Scott Tucker and Mike Wallace to discuss the importance of side hustles, finding fulfillment, and navigating the challenging waters of post-military life. Craig shares his journey from military aviation to a rewarding career in real estate and the significance of maintaining a strong network. The episode also touches on the current real estate market and the value of a methodical approach to career transition. Don't miss this insightful conversation packed with valuable advice for transitioning veterans and anyone looking to find their next career success.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:35 Today's Topic: Side Hustles After Military Retirement01:07 Introducing Craig Snyder01:41 Craig's Journey: From Navy to Real Estate03:52 Finding Fulfillment Beyond the Airlines06:56 The Transition to Real Estate10:07 Building a Real Estate Business17:17 Lessons from the Navy Applied to Real Estate25:17 Navigating Career Transitions25:50 Evaluating Opportunities Carefully26:14 The Importance of Personal Fulfillment26:35 The Risks of Quick Decisions27:09 The Value of a Thoughtful Process27:26 Statistics on Military Transitions28:16 The Mental Health Impact of Poor Fits28:51 Encouraging a Deliberate Approach29:07 Exploring Side Hustles34:35 Networking and Its Benefits47:37 Real Estate Insights and Market Trends52:34 Conclusion and Final Thoughts This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.militaryretirementblueprint.com/subscribe