Embarking on a career transition can feel like navigating through a relentless storm. Casey Reitz joins me to share his compass—the values and resilience that have guided him from military service to the laughter-filled realm of stand-up comedy and now, towards the noble path of law enforcement. His compelling narrative reveals the crucial role community plays in finding one's post-service place in the world, and how pursuits like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu can serve as an anchor during times of change. The conversation weaves through a tapestry of personal identity, growth, and the power of belonging, offering a beacon to those weathering their own professional shifts.

The pursuit of purpose can often lead us through unforeseen challenges. Through my own story, we traverse the landscape of performance anxiety, self-growth, and the siren call to serve. Five years since trading my military uniform for civilian attire, I've encountered crossroads and climbed mountains, culminating in a decision to don a different kind of uniform in law enforcement. We unpack the complex emotions tied to a father's legacy and how the drive to serve transcends the need to escape, shedding light on the inner workings of the call to protect and serve.

In our final chapters, the spotlight falls on the need for recognition, the cultivation of self-worth, and the art of self-awareness—especially poignant for veterans assimilating back into civilian life. Casey and I explore the delicate dance of communicating our needs to superiors and peers. Through stories of unvoiced triumphs and unheard efforts, we underscore the power of self-affirmation in the face of obscurity. Join us as we reflect on building a robust self-awareness that can guide us through stress, conflict, and the heavy mantle of past missteps, encouraging all to step into a brighter, unburdened future.

Casey Reitz | Email transactingvaluepodcast@sdytmedia.com

US Department of Veterans Affairs (11:40) | website

Transacting Value Podcast (23:08) | website | radio

US Department of Veterans Affairs (35:38) | website

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Have you ever wondered about the steel that forges a person's resilience in the face of relentless adversity? My guest, Michael Allison, CEO of Adversity Academy, joins me to unravel the profound resilience and self-worth that are born from life's harshest trials. From surviving natural disasters in Jamaica to navigating the gritty streets of Miami, Michael's life story serves as a backdrop for our conversation about embracing our unique experiences to fuel leadership and personal growth. We contemplate the significance of self-validation and integrity in today's digital landscape and how to turn individual challenges into catalysts for change.

Trauma can be a tenacious shadow, but the journey toward healing and growth is illuminated in this episode. Michael and I tackle the arduous task of finding the right counselor, the courage required to confront one's past, and the role of neurolinguistic programming in battling PTSD. We share stories of individuals who've rewired their thought patterns and, in doing so, have transformed not just their own lives but also the emotional climate of their relationships. The narratives are a testament to the readiness for change and the power of focused intention in overcoming life's scars.

Concluding our heartfelt discourse, we address the universal struggles of quitting, recovery, and burnout, acknowledging the silent battles many face. With personal anecdotes and discussions on the value of community support, we underscore the availability of resources like SAMHSA.gov and the National Crisis Line for those in need. Our exchange is not just a conversation; it's an invitation to you, the listener, to join us in this collective journey of self-discovery and growth, reminding you that you're an integral part of a much larger narrative.

Michael Allison | mallison@theadversityacademy.com | website | @IamMichaelWAllison

US Department of Veteran's Affairs (14:23) | US-Vietnam War Commemoration

Wreaths Across America Radio (21:41)

Developing Character (24:32)

US Department of Veterans Affairs (29:08) | VA Disability Compensation

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Have you ever wondered what it means to truly walk in someone else's shoes, especially when their path has been scattered with the debris of trauma? That question is at the heart of our latest episode, where I sit down with Manya Chylinski, a courageous Boston Marathon bombing survivor, and delve into how personal tragedies can reshape the landscape of our lives and work. We navigate the silent battles of mental health, revealing the power of community support and understanding in healing emotional scars.

In our conversation, we don't just recount Manya's harrowing experiences; we also dissect the necessity of compassionate and human-centric spaces, particularly in our professional environments. As we uncover the stories behind the work facade, we champion the creation of workplaces that honor the full spectrum of the human experience—spaces where vulnerability isn't a liability but a gateway to authentic connections and collective strength. Our discussion serves as a call to arms for leaders and coworkers alike to embrace empathy and psychological safety as cornerstones of a supportive culture.

Wrapping up with a candid look at trauma and advocacy, Manya's journey illuminates the significance of facing one's past with an open heart and mind. This episode is a powerful testament to overcoming the stigma associated with PTSD and other mental health challenges through the transformative act of vulnerability. Join us for an intimate exploration of personal resilience as we share not only our struggles but also the profound insights and tools that aid in recovery. Here's an invitation to listen, learn, and connect—as together, we navigate the complexities of life's most challenging chapters.

Manya Chylinski | website | podcast | LinkedIn| X | Vimeo

US Department of Veteran Affairs (7:45) | website

Wreaths Across America Radio (18:14) | iHeart Radio I Audacy | TuneIn

US Department of Veterans Affairs (28:47) | website

Developing Character (32:14)

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