In this new Pivotal Moments Media Charlie Mike Channel episode of Life After the Military, Lee and Howie speak with Navy Petty Officer First Class Mike Brown.
Mike talks eloquently about the value of owning your own transition and starting your professional network early in your military career. Mike shares how he used LinkedIn as an effective tool to broaden and deepen his network. Even though he had to medically retire and did not have as much time as most to prepare, his early networking efforts helped him land softly in his post-military career.
Mike also speaks about the importance of finding and using mentors who have recently navigated the military transition process to take advantage of their lessons learned.
Although struggling with some mental health challenges, Mike candidly shares the value of seeking and asking for help and being there for others when they need someone to talk to.
Show Notes:
1:20 – How did Mike prepare for his transition? What went well? What didn’t? What did he earn?
9:30 – Howie on why it is important to take ownership of your transition
11:50 – The importance of networking and some tips for finding successÂ
23:30 – They reflect on the challenges of joining a new team and finding successÂ
28:20 – You are not alone, you do not have to go far to find the right people to help you along the way. Find the right communities to give purpose and replace the military presence in your life
34:00 – Don’t hesitate to help others who are transitioning, even if you are just finding rhythm after your own transition
39:00 – How Mike found his job at Intelligent Waves, what he does there, and what he has learned so far from his time working there
51:30 – Book titles
53:20 – Mike on some struggles with mental fitness and what he does to strengthen his mental fitness
1:06:00 – The importance of being there for someone if you see them struggling
