Episode 32: Brady Wentlandt; VP Business Development for Viderity Inc; Marine Veteran
Hello everyone, and welcome to the show notes summary for this insightful episode of Tactical Transition! Cyndi Po hosted this episode solo, joined by returning guest Brady Wentlandt, a true wealth of information for military members navigating their post-service journey. This episode's sponsor, Vet Mentor AI, a veteran-owned platform founded in 2024 by Marine Corps veteran Paul Helinski, helps veterans simplify and enhance access to VA disability benefits, aiming to eliminate "claim sharks." Listeners can get $50 off yearly access using the code "ESELSeminars".
Brady, who retired from the Marine Corps in 2021 after 28.5 years and now serves as VP of Business Development for Viderity Inc., shared his invaluable list of transition tips. This list was refined after attending Cyndi and Michele's transition class, which he found "so much more succinct" than other mandatory programs. Born from personal experience and spiritual inspiration, his goal is to help others, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and "paying it forward".
Here are the key points from Brady's impactful list:
The Elevator Pitch / Professional Introduction: Brady stressed that "Being able to deliver that is vitally important". Military members often find it challenging to talk about themselves, a shift from focusing on the mission to communicating their value. He advises practicing consistently to make it organic, focusing on being personable rather than robotic, and clearly conveying your worth, understanding that "the amount of practice to make it perfect has to be put in." Knowing your audience is key when referencing your military background.
Knowing Your Value/Worth: Translating Military Compensation into Civilian Monetary Value Is Difficult. Brady learned through his network that worth is determined by "what you're doing, where you're doing it, and understanding the left and right lateral limits of that pay for that position at that location". He recommends resources such as Salary, Glassdoor, and Recruit. He advises against settling, noting that "Companies want to get employees, the best employees for the cheapest price, right? I would like you to get the best company at your best price".
Volunteering: While fantastic and "good for the soul," Brady cautions against over-investing in volunteering, as "it doesn't pay the bills." He suggests picking "two or three" organizations and thoughtfully considering the time and energy committed to maintain balance.
VA Disability Process: Many service members mistakenly "forego the VA disability process," often hiding injuries to pursue promotions. Brady highlights the critical role of a veteran services officer (VSO) in advocacy, calling his VSO, Alshi Williams, a "difference maker." Cyndi underscored that the VA claim is part of the government's contract to care for veterans, including the "physical and mental toll". He also advised involving your spouse, as they often notice issues you might miss.
Survivor's Benefit Plan (SBP) vs. Term Life Insurance: Consider term life insurance as an alternative to SBP, especially for those with long life expectancies and minimal debt. Brady and his wife chose a more affordable 20-year term policy with a substantial payout. He offers a crucial tip: acquire term life insurance before retiring and before claiming any VA disability benefits, as medical issues could impact your eligibility or increase the cost.
The Resume - Military vs. Civilian: While many recommend removing military lingo, Brady found that some companies specifically "wanted that military resume." He advises keeping a "green military resume" alongside a civilianized version, as having both can be highly beneficial.
Integration of LinkedIn: Brady advocates for an "aggressive stance" on LinkedIn, sending numerous connection requests and posting regularly. He secured his first post-military job through a "viral" LinkedIn post. He emphasized that self-marketing, although initially feeling "slimy," is "just part of the transition." Cyndi rephrased this as "you're not out there asking for something. You're out there offering something," bringing your invaluable skills to a company.
Brady's overarching message is to "Work that transition, work all those steps. Work them early, work them often, and reach out to somebody if you have questions. You don't need to figure it out on your own." Just like a seasoned hiker navigating a new trail, you don't have to blaze the path alone; there are many experienced guides and well-trodden routes (and tools like LinkedIn) to help you reach your destination successfully.
Reach out to Brady on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brady-wentlandt/
Sign up for Vet Mentor AI to assist with VA Disability Claims: https://www.vetmentorai.com/ - Use code ESELSEMINARS to receive $50 off the year access.