231: Blended – Veterans and Civil life: Winning the Battle of Workplace Discrimination
It’s episode 14 of Blended: I’m joined by another incredible panel of guests and we’re talking about veterans. It’s another emotive subject, but you should all know by now that we pride ourselves on open and honest, sensitive conversations that really aim to bring insight. And if anyone deserves the stage, it’s the incredibly brave and inspirational men and women who have sacrificed, pretty much everything, so the rest of us can live freely and authentically.
Today we’ll be diving into our guests’ personal experiences of the military and transitioning to civilian life; inclusion and supplier diversity; employment struggles and entrepreneurship; and the panel will be sharing their advice and tips for both veterans and businesses looking to support them.
Introductions to our Blended panelists. Zuri – Co-founder and Managing Partner at MaryBelle Solutions LLC Adebayo – President & CEO at Adebayo Adeleke LLC Daniel – Mr. Supply Chain®
The group discuss their experiences, both the challenges and the positives, of being in the military; their roles, responsibilities and memories. Community; culture Travel Learning, education and discovery Introduction to logistics and supply chain Good times and bad times How the military experience shapes/influences people; identity Transferable skills; adaptation “Everybody in the military learns about leadership – but, perhaps more importantly, everybody learns about followership.” Daniel
The panel discuss transitioning from the military to civilian life, the challenges and prejudices. Occupational specialty; finding a job and networking Identifying transferrable skills/knowledge transfer Structure vs flexibility Imposter syndrome and overwhelm Selflessness vs profit-making Moving from no digital footprint to embracing the digital world Learning to ‘speak the same language;’ bridging the gap “I was technically a yeoman – in the civilian world, that means nothing!” Daniel
The panelists reflect on corporate hypocrisy, with what brands say and what they do; where veterans and brands can go for support; and how veterans can actively prepare for civilian life. Looking for brands who have proved record of veteran support Preparation and creating ‘an exit plan’ Establishing boundaries and comfort levels Outside consultancy support Finding the right fit Mentorship and veteran retention
.10] The group discusses entrepreneurship, supplier diversity programs and veteran-owned businesses.
.01] The panel shares their thoughts on the mental and physical health implications following deployment; how we tackle these potentially difficult subjects and normalize conversations; and what policies, procedures, education or training needs to be in place to support veterans in civilian life. Open communication Accessibility to therapy, counseling and mental health services Creating safe spaces Self-care Connection with other veterans and organizations Have empathy; listen to hear
.37] The panelists each give their one-word sum-up from today’s discussion. Understanding – Adebayo Opportunity – Daniel Inclusion – Zuri
