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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 2026 Militarily Speaking Biographies & Memoirs Career Success Economics Personal Finance Social Sciences
Episodes
  • Real Employment Opportunities for Military Veterans - And How to Access Them

    Real Employment Opportunities for Military Veterans - And How to Access Them
    Feb 18 2026
    Welcome to Season 2 Episode 11 of the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery In this episode of Militarily Speaking, we sit down with Tim Shaw and Colin Block, two leaders dedicated to helping veterans succeed after service. Their conversation centers on transitioning from military to civilian life, highlighting practical strategies, support programs, and the importance of financial readiness for veterans and military families. “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. Real Employment Opportunities for Military Veterans – And How to Access Them Tim Shaw, a West Point graduate and co-founder of multiple veteran support organizations, and Colin Block, a Marine Corps veteran working with Vitrify, share their personal journeys and professional insights. Together, they offer guidance on navigating career changes, education pathways, and the broader challenges veterans face during transition. Their experiences underscore how preparation, community, and access to veteran financial resources can significantly impact long-term success after military service. The Importance of Networking and SkillBridge Colin emphasizes that networking is one of the most valuable tools for service members preparing to transition. Starting early, ideally two years before separation, allows veterans to plan intentionally for both employment and financial stability. The SkillBridge program plays a critical role in this process by connecting service members with internships and fellowships while still on active duty. This hands-on experience supports career exploration and contributes to overall military financial readiness by reducing uncertainty during transition. The Reserves as a Military Transition Path Tim shares his experience in the reserves and explains how it can serve as a stabilizing bridge between military and civilian life. For many veterans, reserve service provides continued income, healthcare options, and a sense of structure are important factors in financial planning for service members and their families during times of change. Service to School: Education as a Veteran Resource Service to School, one of the nonprofit organizations Tim co-founded, helps enlisted veterans access higher education at top universities. Through its TRAIN model – test preparation, resume reviews, application assistance, interviewing assistance, and networking – the program expands educational opportunities and strengthens long-term financial readiness for military families. Financial Preparedness: A Cornerstone of Veteran Transition Both Tim and Colin stress that military financial readiness is essential for a smooth transition. Veterans are encouraged to plan ahead for changes in income, benefits, and healthcare, and to build strong financial habits early in their careers. Financial preparation, they note, is just as important as career planning when transitioning from military to civilian life. Encouraging Veteran Employment Tim and Colin highlight why veterans are such valuable hires, pointing to their discipline, adaptability, and teamwork. They encourage employers to engage with veteran employment programs to strengthen their workforce while supporting those who have served. Veterans and employers interested in transition support and veteran employment opportunities are encouraged to explore TheMilVet, SkillBridge, Service to School, and other veteran support organizations discussed in this episode. With the right resources and planning, veterans can confidently build a strong future beyond the uniform. 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 color are horses unable to see? And how many gallons of water can a horse drink in one day?· Answer: Red and 25 Gallons· This week’s Military Minute question(s): Who purchased West Point back in 1790 for $11,085? And under what two names did West Point operate before officially becoming the United States Military Academy at West Point?· 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 ...
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    42 mins
  • Why Veteran Horse Therapy Might Be the Breakthrough Veterans Need

    Why Veteran Horse Therapy Might Be the Breakthrough Veterans Need
    Feb 4 2026
    Welcome to Season 2 Episode 10 of the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery In this episode of Militarily Speaking, we sit down with Jason Laramore, Program Director for Heroes and Horses, who shares how veteran horse therapy helps combat veterans rediscover purpose, resilience, and personal stability through nature, horsemanship, and personal challenge. The powerful work of Heroes and Horses supports veterans as they navigate the emotional and personal challenges of transitioning from military to civilian life, offering a transformative path toward healing and renewed direction. “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. Why Veteran Horse Therapy Might Be the Breakthrough Veterans Need Jason explains that Heroes and Horses was created to help veterans reset their relationship with stress, identity, and purpose after service. The program’s mission is to “unprogram the programmed” by removing participants from modern distractions and immersing them in nature. This holistic approach supports long-term well-being – an important foundation for stable relationships, and healthy decision-making after service. The 41-day program challenges veterans physically, mentally, and emotionally, encouraging accountability, discipline, and self-reliance – skills that directly translate to success in civilian life. A Journey of Self-Discovery and Transition Participants undergo a full digital detox, giving up cell phones and external noise to focus inward. Veterans engage in physical fitness, mindfulness, horsemanship, and leadership exercises designed to rebuild confidence and clarity. The program culminates in an 11-day pack trip through Montana’s rugged wilderness, where veterans face real-world challenges that mirror the complexities of veteran transition planning. This experience helps participants rebuild trust in themselves – an essential step toward stability for both veterans and their families. The Impact on Veterans and Military Families The impact of Heroes and Horses extends far beyond the individual participant. Graduates return home better equipped to reengage with their families, careers, and communities. By addressing emotional health, physical wellness, and personal responsibility, the program supports veterans in building a strong foundation for long-term readiness and life planning. Programs like Heroes and Horses complement other veteran support organizations that focus on employment, financial education, and access to veteran financial resources, ensuring veterans have multiple pathways to success after service. Global Influence and Veteran Support The success of Heroes and Horses has inspired international expansion. Jason shares the story of an Australian veteran who, after completing the program, partnered with the Australian VA to launch a similar initiative. This global reach highlights the universal need for structured support systems that help veterans navigate post-service life with confidence and stability. Community, Volunteers, and Ongoing Support Heroes and Horses thrives thanks to a dedicated community of volunteers and partners who support daily operations, ranch maintenance, logistics, and nutrition. Their commitment reflects the broader military community’s belief that veterans deserve access to meaningful resources that support both personal well-being and long-term readiness. Heroes and Horses demonstrates the profound role nature, discipline, and connection can play in helping veterans heal and rebuild after service. By addressing the invisible wounds of war, the program empowers veterans to reclaim purpose – strengthening not only individual lives but also the well-being of military families and communities nationwide. If you or someone you know could benefit from Heroes and Horses, or if you’re interested in supporting their mission through volunteering or donations, visit heroesandhorses.org. Programs like this are a vital part of the ecosystem that supports veterans as they pursue stability, purpose, and a strong future beyond the uniform. 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 hero, to which a hall at the National War College, is dedicated?· Answer: General Colin Powell· This week’s Military Minute question(s): What color are horses unable to see? And how many gallons of water can a horse drink ...
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    46 mins
  • How the Air Warrior Courage Foundation Is Quietly Saving Military Families

    How the Air Warrior Courage Foundation Is Quietly Saving Military Families
    Jan 21 2026
    Welcome to Season 2 Episode 9 of the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery In this episode of Militarily Speaking, we sit down with Sam, ‘Rags,’ and Bud from the Air Warrior Courage Foundation (AWCF) to the organization’s powerful mission supporting veterans, service members, and military families. They help militarily families with disaster relief, PTSD support, college grants, and much more. Tune in as they highlight the importance of giving back and the enduring bonds formed in military service. “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. How the Air Warrior Courage Foundation Is Quietly Saving Military Families The Air Warrior Courage Foundation was founded on the core military principle of never leaving a wingman behind. What began as an effort to help a fellow airman in need has evolved into a nationwide support network offering financial assistance for veterans, disaster relief, and aid to wounded service members and families of the fallen. Bud emphasized that AWCF’s mission extends across branches, reinforcing a shared commitment to financial readiness for military families and ensuring no service member faces hardship alone. Whether supporting Air Force families or partnering with Navy Wounded Warrior programs, the foundation reflects the deep bond shared by those who serve. Programs That Strengthen Financial Readiness for Military Families One of the impactful initiatives discussed on the podcast is AWCF’s helping families with 529 education savings accounts for children of service members who die on active duty – an important step toward long-term financial security for military families. These programs reduce future financial strain while honoring the sacrifice of fallen heroes. AWCF also partners with ROTC and JROTC programs nationwide, supporting education pathways that lead to military service and stable careers. These efforts align closely with broader goals around financial education for military families and preparing the next generation for success. Rags and Bud shared moving stories of lives changed through AWCF support, including helping a young boy overcome a severe speech impediment – demonstrating how targeted assistance can transform futures beyond immediate financial relief. Transparency, Integrity, and Veteran-Focused Financial Stewardship A key theme throughout the episode was accountability. AWCF operates with strong financial oversight, ensuring donations are used responsibly and effectively. This transparency builds trust and mirrors the values of organizations dedicated to veteran financial resources and responsible nonprofit leadership. Bud also discussed AWCF’s growth strategy, including expanding digital outreach, strengthening partnerships, and increasing visibility at military and veteran-focused events – all aimed at reaching more families in need of trusted financial support and resources. Veterans Leading Veterans Forward As leadership transitions to a new generation, AWCF remains firmly guided by veterans who understand the realities of military life and transitioning from military to civilian life. Sam shared how this firsthand experience allows the foundation to proactively identify needs and provide meaningful support before crises escalate. Their work reflects a broader commitment to ensuring veterans and families have access to financial guidance, emergency assistance, and long-term stability – values that align closely with the mission of military banking and veteran-focused financial services. A Lasting Commitment to Those Who Serve Listeners inspired by AWCF’s work can get involved by volunteering, spreading awareness, or contributing financially. Donations help expand programs that promote financial readiness, education, and stability for service members and veterans. To learn more or support the mission, visit https://airwarriorcourage.org/ 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: How many national championships has the Auburn Tigers Football Team won. And in what year was their most recent one?· Answer: 9 National Championships with the most recent being in 2010.· This week’s Military Minute question(s): What is the name of the hero, to which a hall at the National War College, is dedicated?· Watch for this weeks’ Military Minute post on the Militarily Speaking Facebook page.·...
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    42 mins
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