EP 25: From Barracks to Business: Building Your Post-Service Identity

Military to Civilian Career Transition Power Hour

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Welcome to Episode 25 of the Military to Civilian Career Transition Power Hour. Cheryl interviews four amazing guests who offer valuable insights into entrepreneurship, legal considerations, and career transitions:

Kofi Douhadji - A First Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force and founder of Flying Wings, a hybrid publishing company. Kofi emphasizes that with the right tools and guidance, you can publish a book that stands shoulder to shoulder with those from traditional publishing houses. Learn more at flyingwings.llc.

Gordon Firemark - An attorney specializing in new media, entertainment, and intellectual property law. Gordon shares the importance of a solid business structure, understanding IP rights, and monetization challenges. He encourages creators to "start ugly, start dirty, and polish things as you go," and believes "good contracts make better business partners." Learn more at firemark.com.

Leah Stiles - A retired Senior Chief from the U.S. Navy and founder of Sea-Waves.org, a nonprofit supporting individuals with eating disorders. Leah discusses the challenges of transitioning from military to civilian life and the importance of mentorship and support. "Life isn't meant to be experienced alone."

Mark Harper - A former Air Force combat camera officer and Emmy-winning digital producer. Mark talks about his transition, networking, and his work with Recurrent Ventures and the Military Influencer Conference (MIC). He highlights the power of storytelling and owning your veteran status to bridge the gap between military and civilian worlds. Learn more about MIC at militaryinfluencer.com.

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X CHANGE Podcast Series will showcase future podcasts on exciting topics. You're listening to our inaugural series, The Military to Civilian Career Transition Power Hour; your boot camp for conquering civilian terrain.

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Your next mission awaits!

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1. Welcome to the Military to Civilian Career Transition Power Hour (00:00:00)

2. In the Soup with Kofi Douhadji (00:00:45)

3. Expert Segment with Gordon Firemark, New Media and IP Attorney (00:23:57)

4. Civilian Mission: The 3-Year Guide for Military Professionals Planning Civilian Careers (00:50:24)

5. 1-4 Year Veteran Segment with Leah Stiles of Sea-Waves.org (00:51:17)

6. Want to be a guest on the show? (01:18:35)

7. 5+ Year Veteran Segment with Mark Harper (01:18:53)