Shows
Tactical TransitionEpisode 30: Lt Col (Ret) Michael Hudson; Strategic Account Manager, Schneider Electric FederalHello and welcome to another episode of Tactical Transition with your hosts Michele Lewis and Cyndi Po. In this episode, Michele and Cyndi chat with Mike Hudson, a speaker from a recent ESEL seminar. Mike Hudson is a retired Lieutenant Colonel who now serves as the Strategic Account Manager for the Intelligence and Special Operations community at Schneider Electric Federal.
Mike shares insights from his extensive military career, including graduating from the Citadel, serving as an Infantry Officer in Iraq during the first elections, serving with the Old Guard and planning state funerals, branching into Military Intelligence...2025-05-2853 min
Tactical TransitionEpisode 29: Paul Hylenskil; Marine Veteran, Founder of Quantum Leap AI AcademyWelcome back to the Tactical Transition podcast! In this exciting episode, hosts Cyndi Po and Michele Lewis welcome their first sponsor, Vet Mentor AI, founded by Marine veteran Paul Hylenski. Paul, an aerospace manufacturing leader, author, and TEDx speaker, created the platform after his personal struggles with denied VA disability claims.
Vet Mentor AI is an AI-powered platform designed to simplify and enhance the process of accessing VA disability benefits. It aims to solve real-world problems with cutting-edge technology, bridging military discipline, business innovation, and AI transformation. The platform streamlines and optimizes veterans' claims by leveraging AI...2025-05-2154 min
Tactical TransitionEpisode 28: Dan Mazzuca, CFCC, CCC, CEIP, CMIWelcome to the Tactical Transition show notes!
In this episode, your hosts Michele Lewis and Cyndi Po are joined by their friend and mentor, Dan Mazzuca. Dan is a highly experienced expert dedicated to supporting transitioning service members, with an impressive 47 years supporting the DoD. This includes 26 years on active Air Force duty and 14 years as a Department of Air Force civilian.
Michele Lewis shares that working under Dan Mazzuca's high standards while he managed the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) pushed her and Cyndi Po to "step up our game." This pursuit of excellence became...2025-05-1455 min
Tactical TransitionEpisode 27: Michele Lewis & Cyndi Po, Executive Career Coaches - Executive ResumesWelcome to our inaugural episode of the Tactical Transition podcast for 2025! At every executive class, we emphasize that Networking is one of the most vital tools in your transition toolbox. But what exactly is the purpose of networking? It’s all about discovering opportunities that align with your expertise and qualifications. A key aspect of networking often involves one simple request: a resume.
As we dive into the new year, we’re focusing our first episode on the crucial topic of resumes. What content will you place in the hands of your network, what will they do with...2025-01-1056 min
Tactical TransitionEpisode 26: Michele Lewis & Cyndi Po, End of Year RecapAs we close out 2024, join Michele and Cyndi as they discuss what the past year has brought and what the new year will bring.
Remember to subscribe to the podcast and connect with Cyndi Po and Michele Lewis on LinkedIn.2024-12-2048 min
Tactical TransitionEpisode 25: Michele Lewis & Cyndi Po, Executive Career Coaches; Dealing With Imposter SyndromeJoin Executive Career Coaches Michele Lewis & Cyndi Po as we discuss "Dealing with Imposter Syndrome."
Definition of imposter syndrome: Imposter syndrome is the psychological experience of feeling like a fake or a phony despite any genuine success you have achieved.
According to researcher Dr. Valerie Young, there are five impostor types:
The Perfectionist. This type of imposter syndrome involves believing that, unless you were absolutely perfect, you could have done better. You feel like an imposter because your perfectionistic traits make you believe that you're not as good as others might think you are.
The...2024-12-0753 min
Tactical TransitionEpisode 24: Paul Steketee, Chief of Staff, Airbus US Space & DefensePlease join us in welcoming Paul Steketee
Paul Steketee is the son of a Christian missionary family and was raised in Cote d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast), west Africa. He graduated from The Citadel in 2003 with a Bachelor of Science in Education. He was commissioned into the United States Marine Corps in May 2003 through the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps Program. After completing The Basic School and adjutant course, he served as the Senior Military Manpower Officer for the 1st Battalion, 8th Marines, Second Marine Division.
Paul’s military experience in the Fleet Marine Forces includes comb...2024-11-2354 min
Tactical TransitionEpisode 23: Dan Hance, Founder/CEO The CatalystJoin us as we have a discussion with the founder of The Catalyst, Daniel Hance as we talk about the importance of, not just networking, but building professional relationships, in turn creating an investment mindset.
Daniel is a seasoned leader with 17 years of service in the U.S. Army, both as an enlisted soldier and an officer. After transitioning from the military, he built a successful career in the corporate sector, working with industry leaders such as Walmart and General Electric, as well as contributing to a veteran-focused nonprofit in Cincinnati. In May 2017, recognizing a gap in re...2024-11-0848 min
Tactical TransitionEpisode 22: MSgt USMC (Ret) Charley Yancey: Transition Policy US Air ForceWe are so pleased to introduce Charley Yancey. Charley is a retired Marine Corps MSgt who loves assisting transition service members to understand how valuable their skills are to the civilian community.
For the past 5 years, Charley has managed one of the most attentive Marine Corps Transition Offices and now works in Transition policy for the Air Force.
Join us as Charley shares her wisdom on Skillbridge, the advantage of promoting your skillsets in the civilian sector, and comparing your first civilian job to the 1st pancake.
To connect with Charley, meet her...2024-08-0247 min
Tactical TransitionEpisode 21: Ken Feiereisen, Program Manager, Onward OpsOur guest on this episode is Ken Feiereisen. Ken was an active-duty soldier with 22 years of service. He started his career as a cavalry scout, deploying to Iraq twice (03-04 and 07-09).
After his second deployment, he became a recruiter and finished his career assigned to USASOC.
Ken successfully retired from the Army and became a Program Manager for Onward Ops, a nonprofit that assists soldiers in transitioning out of the service.
In this episode, Ken will offer advice based on his transition experience and work with Onward Ops to create an effective...2024-07-1948 min
Tactical TransitionEpisode 20: Michael Musso; Travel Advisor, New Destinations Travel LLCColonel (Retired) Michael S Musso served in the Army for 28 years. Retired in October 2017.
He and his wife, Samantha, grew up in the New Orleans, LA, area and met at the University of New Orleans. Michael's military journey began as a rifle platoon leader, leading combat operations in Operation Desert Shield and Storm, a testament to his leadership and dedication. He also commanded infantry units at Fort Campbell, KY. He served in various combat and staff positions throughout his career, including presence at the Pentagon on September 11, 2001, and later deployed to Baghdad with the 1st Cavalry Division...2024-07-0851 min
Tactical TransitionEpisode 19: Michele Lewis & Cyndi Po, Executive Career Coaches; Networking - THE MOST IMPORTANT TOOL IN YOUR CAREER SEARCHIn this week’s episode of Tactical Transition, we will discuss the most important tool in your career search toolbox - Networking. Statistics show that over 75% of job openings are not posted on job boards or “easy to access” spaces. Relying on networks to find these positions is vital.
We will debunk misconceptions about networking, emphasizing the creation of opportunities and mutual benefits. Let’s delve into the value of communication, leveraging platforms like LinkedIn, and engaging in informational interviews. We will also highlight the importance of continuous networking for finding jobs, professional growth, and mentorship.
Networ...2024-05-2440 min
Tactical TransitionEpisode 18: Michele Lewis & Cyndi Po, Executive Career Coaches; Developing Your Professional Introduction (Elevator Pitch)In this week’s episode of Tactical Transition, we will discuss the importance of having an intriguing and appropriate professional introduction. This is often called the “elevator pitch.” Whether it is a networking situation, meeting a new person, or that inevitable question, “Tell me about yourself,” being able to tell a person who you are and what you bring to the table is key to making the best first impression.
And as the saying goes, you don’t get a second chance to make a good first impression.
We will discuss the do’s and don’ts and the...2024-05-1040 min
Tactical TransitionEpisode 17: Lt. Col (Retired) Mark Paolicelli; Defense Mission Analyst, Booz Allen HamiltonWe are honored to have as our guest on today’s show, Lt. Col (Retired) Mark Paolicelli. We will discuss his military-to-civilian transition and words of wisdom for those who are currently making this journey. His keen ability to find just the right analogy will not only entertain but put into perspective what is truly important to focus on during your transition.
A native of Pittsburgh, PA, Mark Paolicelli retired from the U.S. Marine Corps as a Lieutenant Colonel in 2022 after serving over 29 years. Mark began his Marine Corps career by enlisting in the reserves in 1993 an...2024-04-2649 min
Tactical TransitionEpisode 16: Kimberly Williams, Founder & CEO of NC4MEKimberly Lindsay Williams, MA, SPHR, SHRM – SCP Chief Human Resources Officer, City of Jacksonville, North Carolina Founder & Chief Executive Officer, NC4ME, North Carolina for Military Employment
Kimberly Williams has over thirty years of experience leading private, public, and nonprofit human resource professionals. Her experience in the private sector includes several large organizations, including Burger King Corporation, where she directed the Human Resource function for the United States. Kimberly’s experience in the public sector and non-profit includes directing the Human Resources function for local government, school division, health care, and workforce housing.
Kimberly is curr...2024-04-1239 min
Tactical TransitionEpisode 15: Michele Lewis & Cyndi Po, Executive Career Coaches; Getting the Most Out of an Informational InterviewThis week on Tactical Transition, Executive Career Coaches Cyndi Po & Michele Lewis will discuss the "Informational Interview." What is it? Is it important to do them? Who do I have an informational interview with? What should I ask?
If you are a transitioning service member and are looking for ways to find that perfect next career, this podcast is for you.
Be sure to check out our website at www.eselseminars.com2024-04-0227 min
Tactical TransitionEpisode 14: Bill Gray; Managing Director, SteerBridge: The Importance of Finding the Right "Fit" for Your CareerBill Gray, Managing Director at SteerBridge, joins us again to bring insights and inspiration to the transitioning military leaders. In today's episode, Bill will discuss the importance of finding the right fit in your next career. He will share valuable information about the company he is currently working with and inspiring words of encouragement for those struggling with the transition process.
We encourage you to connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/williamcgray/2024-03-1739 min
Tactical TransitionEpisode 13 - Cyndi Po & Michele Lewis; Executive Career Coaches; Breaking Down the ResumeThis week on Tactical Transition, Executive Career Coaches Cyndi Po & Michele Lewis will tackle the important subject of "resumes."
If you are a transitioning service member and are concerned about writing the perfect resume, this podcast is for you.
Be sure to check out our website at www.eselseminars.com2024-02-2640 min
Tactical TransitionEpisode 12 - Jessica Hermanstorfer, Sr Manager, Talent Acquisition Operations, Eqlipse TechnologiesTransitioning Service Members: From the perspective of a corporate recruiter, you might be wondering:
• What does it mean when offers contain language like "contingent," "funded," or "unfunded"?
• Is there a way for a veteran to find a company that matches their skills and cultural values?
• Do all companies have their unique culture, and is it important to interview the company as much as they are interviewing you?
This week, we're excited to welcome Jessica Hermanstorfer, the Senior Talent Acquisition Operations Manager for Eqlipse Technologies, who has been recruiting since 1997.
Jessic...2024-02-0250 min
Tactical TransitionEpisode 11 - William (Bill) Gray; Managing Director, SteerBridgeMeet an ESEL Honor Graduate! William (Bill) Gray retired from the Marine Corps in April of this year after 29 years of service. He was a graduate of our Henderson Hall ESEL seminar about a year ago (the week before Thanksgiving of 2022). He joins us to share his stories of how he networked as he was transitioning…so much to the point he didn’t even realize he was in a job interview until the offer hit the table! So, who is Bill Gray, you ask? Bill grew up in the Air Wing as an Aviation Logistics officer. He has been...2024-01-1951 min
Tactical TransitionEpisode 10B - Col (R) George Lewis; Executive Director CACI InternationalJoin us as we speak with COL(R) George Lewis, who compares “landing your next career” to a PLF landing learned through Airborne School.
George Lewis enlisted in the Army in 1985 as a signals intercept (SIGINT), electronic warfare (EW) and cryptology specialist. He graduated from the Defense Language Institute basic French and Electronic Warfare Operators Courses before being assigned to Ft. Bragg, NC’s XVIII airborne Corps’ 525th Combat Electronic Warfare & Intelligence (CEWI) brigade. George served in numerous roles before being assigned as a team sergeant in 3/5th Special Forces Group Airborne. Upon receiving a Green to Gold Scholarsh...2024-01-1839 min
Tactical TransitionEpisode 10A - Col (R) George Lewis; Executive Director CACI InternationalJoin us as we speak with COL(R) George Lewis, who compares “landing your next career” to a PLF landing learned through Airborne School.
George Lewis enlisted in the Army in 1985 as a signals intercept (SIGINT), electronic warfare (EW) and cryptology specialist. He graduated from the Defense Language Institute basic French and Electronic Warfare Operators Courses before being assigned to Ft. Bragg, NC’s XVIII airborne Corps’ 525th Combat Electronic Warfare & Intelligence (CEWI) brigade. George served in numerous roles before being assigned as a team sergeant in 3/5th Special Forces Group Airborne. Upon receiving a Green to Gold Scholars...2024-01-0552 min
Tactical TransitionEpisode 9 - Guest: Col (R) Walter Herd; Director TAP Human Resource CommandDon’t Wait To Plan Your Transition.
Join us this week as we have a conversation with Walter Herd, the Director of the Transition Assistance Program Human Resource Command located in Ft. Knox, Kentucky.
Walter comes with a wealth of advice as he leads the Army’s TAP (Transition Assistance Program). He shares the importance of advance planning, networking, and promoting your “assets” regarding transitioning careers from the military to the next chapter.
In August 2010, Walter Herd accepted the position and immediately faced the challenge of re-engineering the Army’s Transition Assistance Program. Under Herd...2023-12-2253 min
Tactical TransitionEpisode 8 - Guest: Master Gunnery Sergeant (R) Brady Wentlandt: Business Development ManagerTreat Your Transition Like It Is a Job You Want To Keep! Join us as we enjoy a conversation with Brady Wendlandt, a Senior leader who transitioned from the Marine Corps about two years ago.
Brady has several “Tips of Transition Advice,” ranging from researching compensations to utilizing LinkedIn, which he would like to share that applied to his transition, and advice he has shared with numerous service members as they enter their career transition.
Brady transitioned from the United States Marine Corps with more than 28 years of DoD logistics and Supply Chain experience. He is a...2023-12-0846 min
Tactical TransitionEpisode 7 - Guest: Curtis Holloway, Owner SuitabilityGuest: Curtis Holloway, Owner, Suitability, McLean, VA Well-known clothier through the US and military communities
Does the way you dress matter? Dressing for Success was a common term, but has our business model changed? Do your clothes set the stage when you are in transitioning careers? Join us this week as we explore the value of “Dressing for Success” with Curtis Holloway, a well-known Clothier throughout the United States, military community, and abroad.
As the owner of Suitability of McLean, Curtis has touched many lives with his love and passion for the clothing industry. That love...2023-11-2453 min
Tactical TransitionEpisode 6 - Guest: Sgt Maj (R) Matt Quick, Partner Success Specialist/Military & Veteran Program Lead for PMIJoin us this week to talk with Matt Quick, PM Champion. We will discuss which certifications you should consider as you transition out of the military…and what certifications you may not need.
Matt is a Partner Success Specialist with Project Management Institute (PMI)--the leading professional association for project management--focusing on the U.S. Public Sector and leads its Military and Veteran Program.
Before joining PMI in 2022, he was a Career Coach and Certified Digital Networking Professional--connecting people with resources and opportunities.
Matt served 25 years in the U.S. military (Army and Mari...2023-11-1044 min
Tactical TransitionEpisode 5 Pt 2 - LTC (R) Dave Maurer, President Maurer ConsultingThis is a continuation of last week's episode with LTC (R) Dave Maurer.
Our guest this week is LTC (R) Dave Maurer. Dave Maurer offers a wealth of experience as a career military officer and a senior leader within the private sector. His corporate leadership includes serving as a corporate officer for several Washington, D.C. firms. He led a global career transition training program spanning all 50 states and 17 countries and territories in support of the Labor Department and the U.S. military. His military service included tours within the intelligence community and the Joint Staff in...2023-11-0341 min
Tactical TransitionEpisode 5 - LTC (R) Dave Maurer; President, Dave Maurer Consulting, LLC; Army VeteranOur guest this week is LTC (R) Dave Maurer. Dave Maurer offers a wealth of experience as a career military officer and a senior leader within the private sector. His corporate leadership includes serving as a corporate officer for several Washington, D.C. firms. He led a global career transition training program spanning all 50 states and 17 countries and territories in support of the Labor Department and the U.S. military. His military service included tours within the intelligence community and the Joint Staff in the Pentagon. It culminated as the 72nd Adjutant General for the United States Military Academy...2023-10-2754 min
Tactical TransitionEpisode 4 - Guest: Col (R) Wade Dennis, Senior Director of Operations for Chenega Global Protection, LLCCol (R) Wade Dennis’ service to the MP Regiment was exemplary. He enlisted in the Army in January 1978. He went on to serve in a myriad of positions, from basic MP patrolman to Commanding the 82d MP Company, the only Airborne MP Company in the history of the US Army to execute a combat parachute assault, during the invasion of Panama (Operation Just Cause). He commanded the 503rd MP Battalion (Airborne) while it secured the Pentagon for 8 months after the tragedy of September 2011 (9-11) and commanded the Battalion during the initial envision if Iraq (OIF). He commanded the Joint De...2023-10-1352 min
Tactical TransitionEpisode 3 - Guest: Joe Posusney, Army Veteran, Associate Director @ OrganonJoe Posusney grew up in Philadelphia, PA, and earned his Eagle Scout award at age 17. He is a West Point graduate and Army veteran who served in the 82nd Airborne MP Company, earning his senior parachute badge with bronze service star. During Operation Just Cause, he participated in the only combat parachute assault by an MP Company in history and served during both Desert Shield and Desert Storm. He has extensive experience in engineering, technology, operations, R&D, manufacturing, and sales and marketing in his corporate career. He is a founding member in the advancement of women’s health at...2023-09-2949 min
Tactical TransitionEpisode 2 - Guest: Shawna Wentlandt - PHD, Ultra Marathon Runner, Mom, Military SpouseHaving Shawna Wentlandt as our guest on this week's podcast is a great honor. Like Michele and Cyndi, Shawna wears the badge of military spouse and gives some great insight into the transition process from the spouse's perspective.
Shawna is originally from Julian, California, a small town in the mountains north of San Diego. Since marrying Brady in 1999, they moved worldwide and raised their three kids. In 2010, she earned a Ph.D. in leadership and organizational change. She works as an online college professor. In her free time, she is a long-distance runner and enjoys traveling.2023-09-1548 min
Tactical TransitionEpisode 1 - Guest: John Perez founder of Valor & Honor OutdoorsOn Episode 1, we speak with guest, John Perez, founder of Valor & Honor Outdoors. "Valor & Honor Outdoors is a 501(c)(3) non-profit public charity organization whose mission is to honor all military personnel, past and present, who have served with “Valor and Honor.” We are dedicated to providing unique outdoor experiences to active-duty military, veterans, and their families. Operated entirely by volunteers, our passion is fishing and hunting, although we also provide opportunities for other outdoor activities such as camping, kayaking, archery, target-practice, and horseback riding. Whether a wounded warrior needs to regain physical and/or mental well-being, or an active mili...2023-09-0137 min
Tactical TransitionIntroduction EpisodeLong time coming, this is our introductory episode of the Tactical Transition Podcast. The focus is on senior military leaders transitioning into the civilian job market. We will discuss resources and best practices to help service members find their next career after service to the country. Please visit our website at www.eselseminars.com and subscribe to our email. And of course subscribe to our podcast.2023-08-0752 min