In this episode of the Military Retirement Podcast, John and Vic celebrate reaching 1,000 subscribers and discuss the challenges of modern media and recruiting. The highlight of the show is an interview with Rudy Muriel, a veteran and Outreach & Recruitment Specialist for the federal government. Rudy provides invaluable, demystified advice for veterans and military spouses looking to land a federal job.The discussion covers a range of topics including:The "three gatekeepers" of the federal hiring process and why a good resume is about more than just keywords [01:25:54 ].The biggest hurdles veterans face, such as translating military experience into civilian language, and practical solutions for overcoming them [18:21 ].Insights into how the federal government views an applicant's military rank versus their actual skills and knowledge [22:15 ].The VOW Act and how it allows transitioning service members to be onboarded for a federal job up to 120 days before their separation date, preventing a gap in pay [01:20:28 ].The surprising ability to negotiate a higher starting salary in certain federal jobs [56:57 ].Rudy’s advice for military spouses on finding and applying for federal positions, even without a resume [01:27:01 ].How to get free help and training from Veteran Service Officers (VSOs) and local employment offices upon landing in a new community [34:01 ].This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the transition to a civilian career, offering practical, expert advice that goes far beyond what is typically covered in the Transition Assistance Program (TAP).Key Timestamps:[00:46 ] The Military Retirement Podcast hits 1,000 subscribers and discusses future goals.[13:37 ] Introduction of guest Rudy Muriel, a federal government Outreach and Recruitment Specialist.[18:21 ] The biggest hurdle for veterans in federal hiring: identifying and translating transferable skills.[22:15 ] Dispelling the myth of military rank equivalency in federal pay grades.[34:01 ] The crucial role of Local Veteran Employment Representatives (LVERs) and Disabled Veterans' Outreach Program (DVOPs) counselors.[56:57 ] How to negotiate a higher step or salary for federal positions.[01:03:04 ] The importance of "buying back" military time for your federal retirement plan.[01:20:28 ] Explanation of the VOW Act and its benefits for new hires.[01:25:54 ] The "Three Gatekeepers" of the USAJOBS application process.[01:32:35 ] How and where to find Rudy Muriel's workshops and resources.Resources Mentioned:Rudy Muriel's LinkedIn: For job seekers and those interested in his workshops. https://www.linkedin.com/in/rudy-m-165a0515/USAJOBS: The official website for federal employment. https://usajobs.govThe VOW Act: For transitioning service members to get onboarded early. https://www.benefits.va.gov/vow/Military Retirement Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/themilitaryretirementgroupPortraits for Patriots: An organization that provides free professional photos for transitioning veterans. https://portraitsforpatriots.org/Operation Headshot: An alternative organization offering similar services and photography education for veterans. https://www.operationheadshot.com/