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Militarily Speaking

Militarily Speaking

De: 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 Biografías y Memorias Ciencias Sociales Economía Exito Profesional Finanzas Personales
Episodios
  • Turning a Deployment Idea Into a Multi-Million Dollar Veteran Business with Robert Patton, Founder and CEO of Sheath

    Turning a Deployment Idea Into a Multi-Million Dollar Veteran Business with Robert Patton, Founder and CEO of Sheath
    Dec 10 2025
    Welcome to Season 2 Episode 6 of the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery In this episode of Militarily Speaking, we dive deep into the world of veteran entrepreneurship and military business leadership with Robert Patton, the founder and CEO of Sheath. Sheath is a unique veteran-owned business known for innovating comfort in men’s underwear. Robert’s journey from Army soldier to successful entrepreneur offers powerful insights for military members, veterans, and military spouses interested in starting a business, veteran small business funding, and leadership development. “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.Turning a Deployment Idea Into a Multi-Million Dollar Veteran Business with Robert Patton, Founder and CEO of Sheath Robert Patton launched Sheath in 2013, building what is now a recognized veteran-owned apparel brand. Originally a men’s underwear company, it expanded to include a women’s line in 2017. The brand reflects discipline, durability, and self-mastery – qualities rooted in Robert's military background and aligned with the broader mission of encouraging military entrepreneurs to build purpose-driven businesses. Transitioning from Military to Business Robert’s entrepreneurial journey began during his military service in Iraq, where he identified a need for performance-based comfort in extreme conditions. Encouraged by those around him, he turned an idea into a prototype and eventually into a thriving business. His experience illustrates the challenges and opportunities that come with transitioning from active duty to entrepreneurship, a path many veterans and military spouses are exploring today. The Military Influence on Business Leadership The discussion highlights how military experience directly shapes effective business leadership, communication, and problem-solving. Robert shared how his Army training built resilience, perseverance, and confidence – essential skills for anyone navigating military small business ownership or exploring funding for veteran owned business. His story underscores why veterans often make exceptional leaders in both startups and established companies. Challenges and Growth at Sheath Robert’s initial product run didn’t succeed due to design issues, but the setback only strengthened his determination. After refining the design and relaunching, Sheath gained momentum. His story is a reminder that growth requires patience, adaptability, and a willingness to learn – traits often developed during military service and essential for entrepreneurial leadership. Sheath’s team is largely built around trusted family and friends. While unconventional, this lean and resourceful approach helped the company grow organically. It offers an interesting perspective for listeners considering team-building strategies for their own veteran-owned small business. Testing Different Marketing Strategies Sheath’s marketing strategy evolved from podcast outreach to influencer endorsements and YouTube sponsorships. Robert emphasizes the importance of organic growth, audience feedback, and meeting customers where they are. His experience offers valuable insight for military entrepreneurs navigating business marketing, digital platforms, and customer engagement. Looking ahead, Sheath plans to expand into pajamas and everyday apparel, aiming for significant growth over the next decade. Robert’s approach demonstrates long-term strategic planning – a key theme in both leadership development and military-inspired business strategy. Advice for Aspiring Veteran Entrepreneurs Robert encourages aspiring entrepreneurs, especially veterans, to leverage resources such as the GI Bill, the Small Business Administration, and modern funding avenues like crowdfunding. These tools can help military members and spouses access veteran business funding, reduce financial risk, and build sustainable companies. Robert Patton’s story is a powerful example of resilience, innovation, and applying military skills to the business world. His journey encourages aspiring military entrepreneurs to embrace challenges, keep learning, and stay committed to their vision — whether they’re exploring veteran-owned business opportunities, military spouse entrepreneurship, or leadership training. To learn more about Robert Patton and Sheath, or try their innovative apparel, visit sheath.com and use promo code AFB for a 20% discount. 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 ...
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    53 m
  • The Financial Moves Every Military Family Needs to Make - Advice from Navy Mutual’s Heather Walrath

    The Financial Moves Every Military Family Needs to Make - Advice from Navy Mutual’s Heather Walrath
    Nov 26 2025
    Welcome to Season 2 Episode 5 of the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery In this episode of Militarily Speaking, we sit down with Heather Walrath of Navy Mutual Aid Association to discuss military financial readiness, budgeting for PCS moves, and long-term planning for veterans and service members. Discover expert tips on saving money, improving credit, managing military loans, and preparing for life after service. Whether you’re new to the military or nearing retirement, this episode is your guide to smarter military banking and financial success. “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 Financial Moves Every Military Family Needs to Make - Advice from Navy Mutual’s Heather Walrath The Navy Mutual Aid Association is the oldest federally recognized veteran service organization in the U.S., founded to support naval officers and their families after the Battle of Little Bighorn. Today, it provides life insurance, financial counseling, and educational resources across all branches of the military. Heather’s role gives her a front-row seat to the financial challenges military families face, from navigating military benefits to planning for retirement. Her passion lies in empowering families through financial literacy – ensuring every military service member understands the full scope of benefits and options available to them. Building Military Financial Readiness from Day One Heather emphasizes that financial education for service members should begin as early as possible. Her mantra – “Save from day one” – encourages young service members to take advantage of military savings accounts, the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), and high-yield savings options offered by military-friendly banks like Armed Forces Bank. She also highlights how financial planning for military families can prevent issues that affect security clearances and leadership opportunities. By setting shared goals and having regular “money dates,” military couples can improve communication and maintain financial wellness during deployments or PCS moves. Overcoming Common Financial Challenges in Military Life From frequent relocations to managing unexpected expenses, Heather outlines how military families can improve financial readiness through emergency savings, smart budgeting, and ongoing financial education. Her stories underscore the real-world impact of military financial resources – including one about helping a widow recover unclaimed benefits, illustrating how financial literacy directly supports the military community’s well-being. Collaboration Between Banks and the Military Community Heather stresses the importance of partnerships between financial institutions and veteran organizations. By hosting workshops, sharing resources about VA home loans, military checking and savings accounts, and access loans, banks can play a key role in improving financial literacy among service members and veterans. These collaborations ensure veterans and military families have access to trusted tools that promote financial independence and support their transition to civilian life. Defining Financial Success for Military Families Heather defines financial success not as wealth, but as peace of mind – the confidence that comes from being prepared for emergencies, living within your means, and making informed financial choices. Her approach aligns with Armed Forces Bank: to provide financial tools and guidance that help service members, veterans, and their families thrive, no matter where military life takes them. Building Financial Independence in the Military Community Heather Walrath’s insights highlight the critical role of financial readiness in the military community. From understanding military benefits to creating long-term stability through financial education, her message is clear: financial empowerment starts with knowledge and proactive planning. For more financial tips for military families and resources to improve your military financial readiness, visit navymutual.org or explore the educational tools and military banking solutions available through Armed Forces Bank. 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 was the original name of Old Dominion University?· Answer: Norfolk Division of the College of William and Mary· This week’s Military Minute question(s): What is ...
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    48 m
  • 27% of Military Families Are Doing This With Their Money and Why It’s Risky – with Bruce McClary of NFCC

    27% of Military Families Are Doing This With Their Money and Why It’s Risky – with Bruce McClary of NFCC
    Nov 12 2025
    Welcome to Season 2 Episode 4 of the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery In this episode of Militarily Speaking, we talk with Bruce McClary, Senior Vice President of Media Relations and Membership for the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC). Financial readiness is an essential part of life for military families, who often face unique financial challenges due to deployments, relocations, and transitions between duty stations. Together with hosts Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery, they explore the latest trends, tools, and financial resources for service members designed to promote military financial wellness and 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. 27% of Military Families Are Doing This With Their Money and Why It’s Risky – with Bruce McClary of NFCC Returning as the first-ever repeat guest on Militarily Speaking, Bruce McClary shares his extensive experience helping service members and veterans achieve financial stability. Through his work with the NFCC, Bruce champions veteran financial education and financial counseling programs that help military families reduce debt, improve credit, and build stronger money management habits. His work directly supports financial readiness for the military community, empowering service members to make informed decisions about their financial futures. Cryptocurrency and Military Financial Decisions One of the most eye-opening discussions centers around cryptocurrency and its growing role in military financial behavior. Surveys reveal that over a quarter of active-duty service members and military spouses have invested in cryptocurrency – double the national average. Bruce warns of the volatility and limited consumer protections in this market, emphasizing that financial education for service members must now include guidance on emerging investment trends. Programs like the NFCC’s financial counseling services play a crucial role in helping military members understand these risks and build responsible investment strategies. Bridging the Financial Communication Gap in Military Households Military families often face emotional and logistical challenges when it comes to managing money. Despite frequent financial discussions, more than half of military couples report that money management is a source of conflict. Bruce explains that improving financial literacy in military households requires practical tools—like budgeting checklists and step-by-step resources—to support better communication. Strengthening military financial readiness starts with helping families have productive, informed conversations about money. Addressing Payday Loans and Hidden Financial Traps Another major concern discussed is the continued use of payday loans and “buy now, pay later” services among service members. These short-term solutions can easily spiral into debt traps that undermine financial wellness for military families. Bruce urges the community to take advantage of trusted military banking partners and veteran financial assistance programs instead of predatory lenders. Resources like those provided by the NFCC and Armed Forces Bank can help service members avoid costly mistakes and build long-term financial security. Strengthening Financial Education for Service Members Bruce emphasizes the importance of collaboration between military banks, nonprofit organizations, and educators to expand access to financial education for veterans and service members. This partnership-driven approach ensures that every military family has the tools and knowledge to handle challenges such as debt management, savings strategies, and home or business financing. Improving military financial readiness not only strengthens individual families but also enhances overall community resilience. Get Support from the NFCC If you’re a service member, veteran, or military spouse seeking financial guidance, the NFCC offers certified financial counselors who specialize in veteran financial education and support. Visit www.nfcc.org or call 1-800-388-2227 to access free or low-cost counseling that helps with budgeting, debt reduction, and credit improvement. This episode of Militarily Speaking highlights the ongoing need for financial readiness in the military community. By increasing awareness, improving access to reliable resources, and prioritizing financial education for service members, families can take proactive steps toward a more secure and confident financial future. 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...
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    49 m
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