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Militarily Speaking

Militarily Speaking

Written 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 Careers Economics Personal Finance Personal Success Social Sciences
Episodes
  • How to Get Money Back from Your PCS Move – with Jason from VeteranPCS

    How to Get Money Back from Your PCS Move – with Jason from VeteranPCS
    Apr 15 2026
    Welcome to Season 2 Episode 13 of the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery In this episode of Militarily Speaking, we sit down with Jason Anderson, veteran, and CEO & Founder of VeteranPCS, to explore how military families can navigate PCS moves more strategically and even get money back in the process. They dive into the role of real estate in building long-term financial stability, how VA home loans fit into a broader military financial readiness plan, and why working with trusted, military-focused agents can make a major difference. Jason also shares how Veteran PCS is helping service members and their families turn frequent moves into opportunities for smarter financial decisions. “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 to Get Money Back from Your PCS Move – with Jason from VeteranPCS Jason Anderson’s journey from Army aviation officer to entrepreneur highlights the realities of transitioning from military to civilian life. After serving globally and retiring in 2020, Jason entered the real estate space and quickly identified a gap: military families needed a more trusted, community-driven way to navigate home buying and selling. VeteranPCS was built to meet that need – connecting military families with vetted real estate professionals who understand the complexities of PCS moves, VA home loans, and military relocation timelines. The platform supports not only home buying but also broader financial planning for service members, ensuring decisions align with long-term financial goals. Supporting Financial Readiness for Military Families At its core, VeteranPCS operates on a simple mission: military families helping military families move. But beyond that, Jason emphasizes how real estate plays a critical role in financial readiness for military families. Through commission sharing and charitable giving, VeteranPCS has returned over $550,000 to military families and organizations. This approach helps reduce financial strain during moves and supports smarter wealth-building strategies – key components of military financial education and long-term stability. Real Estate, VA Loans, and Military Financial Strategy The conversation highlights how real estate decisions tie directly into military banking and financial strategy. Jason discusses how understanding tools like VA home loans can help service members build equity and avoid costly mistakes. With the right guidance, homeownership becomes more than a transaction – it becomes a strategic part of financial planning for service members and a pathway toward building generational wealth. Community Impact and Veteran Support Organizations VeteranPCS also partners with impactful veteran support organizations, including Wear Blue: Run to Remember and the Veterans Community Project. These partnerships extend the platform’s mission beyond real estate, contributing to a broader ecosystem of veteran financial resources and community support. Jason emphasizes that trust, shared experience, and community connection are what truly differentiate VeteranPCS from traditional real estate platforms. Transitioning to Entrepreneurship After Military Service Jason shares candid insights about launching a business after military service, highlighting the importance of patience, adaptability, and long-term vision. His experience reflects a common challenge for veterans – finding purpose and stability after service – while reinforcing the importance of preparation when transitioning from military to civilian life. Advice for Service Members and Veteran Entrepreneurs For service members considering entrepreneurship or real estate investment, Jason offers practical advice: · Focus on serving your community first· Build strong networks within veteran circles· Understand the financial implications of major decisions· Stay committed to long-term goals These principles align closely with building strong military financial readiness and sustainable post-service careers. Jason’s story demonstrates how service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off. Through VeteranPCS, he continues to support military families by helping them make informed, strategic real estate decisions that strengthen their financial futures. The group reinforces the importance of combining trusted veteran financial resources, smart military banking decisions, and community-driven support to help service members and their families thrive. If you’re part of a military family preparing for a move, visit veteranpcs.com to connect with trusted real estate professionals who understand your needs. 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 ...
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    41 mins
  • Military Families: Are You Missing These Financial Resources?

    Military Families: Are You Missing These Financial Resources?
    Mar 4 2026
    Welcome to Season 2 Episode 12 of the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery In this episode of Militarily Speaking, we sit down with Jeff Major, a Personal Financial Readiness Specialist at Army Community Service (ACS), to discuss strengthening military financial readiness to providing critical support programs for military families. They outline the essential resources available to service members at every stage of their careers. “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. Military Families: Are You Missing These Financial Resources? Jeff Major, a seasoned Army veteran, brings decades of experience to the discussion. After serving as an attack helicopter pilot and aviation maintenance officer, Jeff transitioned into financial counseling, dedicating his post-service career to advancing financial education for military families. His work supports service members in building strong foundations for long-term success – both during active duty and while transitioning from military to civilian life. The Core of Army Community Service Army Community Service is often described as one of the military’s best-kept secrets. With 14 major programs designed to support service members and their families, ACS plays a central role in promoting financial readiness for military families and overall well-being. Programs such as Employment Readiness and Financial Readiness are especially impactful, offering guidance that helps service members prepare for both immediate challenges and long-term goals. These services align closely with Armed Forces Bank’s broader mission of strengthening military financial education and ensuring that service members have access to reliable, installation-based support. Financial Education and Military Financial Readiness A major focus of the episode is the ACS Financial Readiness Program. Jeff emphasizes that military financial readiness begins with education – particularly for young service members who may be managing finances independently for the first time. Topics covered include: Budgeting and cash flow planningUnderstanding retirement options such as 401(k)-style plans and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)Managing debt and improving creditLong-term financial planning for military families By building these habits early, service members can improve their financial stability and reduce stress throughout their careers. Navigating Financial Challenges Jeff shares personal stories that reflect common financial challenges faced by service members and veterans – from credit issues to unexpected expenses during PCS moves. His advice reinforces the importance of structured planning, disciplined saving, and proactive financial decision-making. These conversations underscore why financial planning for service members is essential – not only for current stability but also for long-term security after separation from the military. Collaboration with Armed Forces Bank and Financial Institutions Tom and Jodi discuss how organizations like Armed Forces Bank can partner with ACS to strengthen military banking education and expand access to banking options for military members. Jeff highlights the importance of financial institutions providing clear, transparent guidance so service members fully understand the products they use – from checking and savings accounts to long-term planning tools. This collaboration supports a unified approach to improving military financial readiness across the community. The Army Community Service is more than a support office – it’s a cornerstone of financial readiness, education, and veteran-focused resources. Jeff Major’s insights reinforce the message that preparation, planning, and access to trusted programs can significantly improve outcomes for service members and their families. 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: 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?· Answer: Alexander Hamilton, and prior to being the United States Military Academy at West Point, it was named Fort Arnold and Fort Clinton.· This week’s Military Minute question(s): What 1990s TV show starred Jane Seymour as a 19th century doctor who settled in Colorado Springs at the foot of the Rockies?· Watch ...
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    48 mins
  • 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
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