The Dog Tag

On this episode of The Dog Tag, our hosts Jim Bob Mickler, Texas Veterans Land Board (VLB) Director for Marketing & Outreach, and Jimmy Smaragdis, VLB Marketing Specialist, talk about how to find a lender, prequalify for a mortgage and why you need a good real estate agent. Their guests include Director of Strategic Products Elizabeth Robertson and Loan Officer Marcia Boyer of Gateway Mortgage Group, as well as Kim Mangum, Loan Origination Manager for the VLB Veterans Land & Housing Program. After you’ve established your credit score and calculated how much house you can afford, the next step in the home buying process is finding a good mortgage lender who can help you pre-qualify for a home mortgage. On this episode you can find out how the VA Home Loan Guaranty works, what kind of documents you initially need to provide the lender and how an experienced real estate professional is essential to help you find the perfect home that fits your budget. The information and advice in this episode can help you take the right steps to becoming a homeowner.

On this episode of The Dog Tag, our hosts Jim Bob Mickler, VLB Deputy Director for Marketing & Outreach, and Jimmy Smaragdis, VLB Marketing Specialist, talk about the first steps to take when buying a home. Their guests include Elizabeth Robertson, Director of Strategic Products at Gateway Mortgage Group, Marcia Boyer, Loan Officer for Gateway Mortgage Group, and Kim Mangum, Loan Origination Manager for the VLB Veterans Land & Housing Program. Buying a home can be a very intimidating process, especially if it’s your first time, so we’re going to break it down with some of the most knowledgeable real estate people we know. On this first podcast we’ll cover the first two subjects related to buying a new home: credit scores and budgeting. We’ll discuss what credit is, why it’s important and how to obtain it. We’ll also go over how to read your credit report and fix any incorrect items, so you can raise your credit score. We’ll also talk about how to budget for a home including how to calculate your desired monthly payment. We’ll get into down payments, closing costs, housing-related expenses, loan terms and much more.

On this episode of The Dog Tag, Matt Elledge talks with Terry Tottenham the founder of Texas Lawyers for Texas Veterans (TLTV). Mr. Tottenham established this program with the State Bar of Texas to develop and assist pro bono legal clinics throughout the state for Veterans who otherwise cannot afford, or do not have access to, the legal services they need. Matt and Terry discuss the mission of this unique program, how it’s funded, and what kind of legal services they provide to Military Members, Veterans and their family members in Texas. The attorneys who volunteer for TLTV provide legal advice and assistance on a wide range of issues including VA disability claims, family law, criminal matters, real estate and tax law, and much more. The Dog Tag® is brought to you by the Texas Veterans Land Board. Find more episodes at TexasVeteransPodcast.com. If you have questions about this topic, or suggestions for other podcast topics, call 1–800–252-VETS or email vlbinfo@glo.texas.gov. Visit TexasVeterans.com to find out more about your benefits!

On this episode of The Dog Tag, Matt Elledge takes a deeper look at the variety of programs and assistance for Military Members and Veterans provided by the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC). Matt’s guests are Dale Robertson, Manager of the Office of Employer Initiatives and Outreach and Project Development, and Jeff Singh, Program Manager for College Credit for Heroes. Matt, Dale and Jeff discuss how to find a Workforce Solutions Office in your area and connect with a Veteran Resource & Referral Specialist. You’ll learn how to register as a job seeker on the Work In Texas website and what special priority status is afforded to Veterans looking for work. Whether you’re planning your transition from the military, or you’ve already left, listen to this podcast and let the Texas Workforce Commission help you find a career that’s right for you. The Dog Tag® is brought to you by the Texas Veterans Land Board and the Texas Veterans Commission. Find more episodes at texasveteranspodcast.com. If you have questions about this topic, or suggestions for other podcast topics, call 1–800–252-VETS or email vlbinfo@glo.texas.gov. Visit TexasVeterans.com to find out more about your benefits!

On this episode of The Dog Tag, Matt Elledge talks with Deputy Director, John Berkely, and Program Administrator, Kathy Johanns of the Texas State Veterans Homes. The VLB Texas State Veterans Homes provide affordable, long-term nursing care for Texas Veterans, their spouses and Gold Star parents. Located across Texas, each first-class facility is designed to enhance quality of life with a clean, caring and dignified setting appropriate to those men and women who have served our country with honor. Matt, John and Kathy discuss the origin of these special homes, eligibility requirements, associated costs, quality of life and much more. John Berkely, a Navy Veteran with 23 years of experience in long-term care administration, took on the role of Deputy Director for the Texas State Veterans Homes at the Texas Veterans Land Board (VLB) on Monday, May 12, 2014. Kathy joined the Texas Veterans Land Board in 2015 and has almost 20 years of experience in the field of long-term care. Her father was a U.S. Air Force Veteran who served in both Korea and Vietnam and she is also the spouse of a U.S. Air Force Veteran. Kathy, and her colleague, Sara Rodriguez, a registered nurse who also works for the Texas State Veterans Homes, developed and teach the Post-Traumatic Stress Program to every staff member at all eight Texas State Veterans Homes. The VLB is extremely fortunate to have these very compassionate and dedicated people on our team serving Texas Veterans!

On this episode of The Dog Tag, Matt Elledge talks with Bill McLemore, Deputy Director for the VLB Veterans Land & Housing Program, and Charlotte Mumphord, Director of the Land & Housing Program, about the Texas Veterans Home Improvement Program (VHIP). Matt and his guests break down the home improvement loan process including how to apply for pre-approval online, select a contractor and which projects are eligible. These loans are available to Veterans, Military Members and eligible spouses in Texas. Charlotte Mumphord has served Texas Veterans and Military Members in Texas for 32 years at the Texas Veterans Land Board (VLB), helping them realize their dream of owning their own little piece of Texas. Before Bill McLemore retired from the U.S. Army in April 1986, he deployed on four combat tours?—?three in Vietnam and one in the Dominican Republic. After leaving the Army, Bill worked as the Travis County Veterans Service Officer until 2001 when President George W. Bush appointed him to the position of Senior Advisor and Deputy Assistant Secretary for the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, where he served until 2008. From 2008 to 2013 he served as a Senior Staff Advisor and Veteran Advocate to the Director of the VA Heart of Texas Health Care Network. In 2013 Bill joined the Texas Veterans Land Board. We are very proud to have these two hardworking, dedicated individuals on board serving Texas Veterans and Military Members. The Dog Tag® is brought to you by the Texas Veterans Land Board and the Texas Veterans Commission. Find more episodes at texasveteranspodcast.com. If you have questions about this topic, or suggestions for other podcast topics, call 1–800–252-VETS or email vlbinfo@glo.texas.gov. Visit TexasVeterans.com to find out more about your benefits!

On this episode of The Dog Tag, Matt Elledge sits down with Deputy Director, Eric Brown, and Chief On-Site Representative, Doug Gault, of the VLB Texas State Veterans Cemeteries. VLB Texas State Veterans Cemeteries are special resting places, where friends, family and fellow Texans can honor Texas Veterans. These hallowed grounds are an expression of our respect for the men and women who have served our nation with distinction. Matt, Eric and Doug talk about the history of these cemeteries and discuss eligibility, costs, burial options and much more. Eric Brown served in the U.S. Air Force for 22 years and in 2012 joined the Texas Veterans Land Board. Doug Gault served in the U.S. Army for 30 years as a Combat Engineer, deploying three times during Desert Storm/Desert Shield, Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF). The Dog Tag® is brought to you by the Texas Veterans Land Board. Find more episodes at TexasVeteransPodcast.com. If you have questions about this topic, or suggestions for other podcast topics, call 1–800–252-VETS or email vlbinfo@glo.texas.gov. Visit TexasVeterans.com to find out more about your benefits!

On this episode of The Dog Tag, Matt Elledge talks with Pam Maercklein, the Women Veterans Healthcare Liaison for the Women Veterans Program at the Texas Veterans Commission (TVC). Pam served eight years in the United States Air Force and has a Master's Degree in Education from the University of Texas at Austin. She's worked at the Texas Veterans Commission since 2008 and assists Women Veterans with their health care needs. Matt and Pam dive deep into the issues that affect Women Veterans' physical and mental well-being including maternity care, military sexual trauma, post-traumatic stress, traumatic brain injury and more. If you are a Woman Veteran, or know one, please listen to this podcast and find detailed insights about health care for the brave women who have served in our nation's military forces.     Show Notes: Introduction.  [:48] How the Women Veterans Program at the TVC helps Women Veterans.  [2:24] How Pam advocates for Women Veterans within the VA Health Care System.  [3:11] The eligibility requirements for VA Health Care.   [5:37] Health care statistics for Women Veterans.  [10:18] How the VA provides maternity care to Women Veterans.  [11:52] How health care challenges are sometimes different for Women Veterans versus male Veterans.  [14:39] Most common health care issues for Women Veterans.  [20:30] Types of health care services Women Veterans can expect from the VA.  [23:10] How Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) affects Women Veterans.  [24:58] Military Sexual Trauma (MST) and PTSD in Women Veterans.  [28:00] How to get a VA service-connected disability rating for MST.  [30:01] Suicide rates among Women Veterans.  [34:51] Is the VA providing better health care to Women Veterans?  [37:49] Other organizations that support Women Veterans.  [40:39] Homeless Women Veterans.  [42:32] Assistance for Women Veterans in rural areas.  [45:01] Women Veterans mentoring other Women Veterans.  [46:29] Join the Texas Women Veterans Professional Network.  [49:26]     The Dog Tag® is brought to you by the Texas Veterans Land Board and the Texas Veterans Commission. Find more episodes at www.texasveteransblog.com/dogtag. If you have questions about this topic, or suggestions for other podcast topics, call 1-800-252-VETS or email vlbinfo@glo.texas.gov. Visit TexasVeterans.com to find out more about your benefits!

On this episode of The Dog Tag, Matt Elledge talks with Nicole Anderson, the Women Veterans Employment Coordinator for the Women Veterans Program at the Texas Veterans Commission. Nicole and Matt discuss topics such as career counseling, resume assistance and interview techniques. They also cover some of the unique challenges that Women Veterans face when seeking employment including child care and homelessness.     Show Notes: Introduction.  [:47] How the TVC Women Veterans Program help Women Veterans find employment.  [2:33] The barriers that Women Veterans face when seeking employment.  [4:12] How they provide career counseling, job search and resume assistance, and interview preparation.  [5:14] Nicole gives advice on how to succeed at a job fair.  [7:04] Are many Women Veterans returning to school to earn degrees?  [9:52] Specific skills and abilities Women Veterans bring to the workplace.  [10:58] Benefits that attract Women Veterans to a particular employer.  [12:39] What the Women Veterans Professional Network is and how to join.  [14:47] Other organizations who help Women Veterans.  [16:32] Upcoming events for Women Veterans.  [17:32] Does the Women Veterans Program help military spouses?  [18:16]     The Dog Tag® is brought to you by the Texas Veterans Land Board and the Texas Veterans Commission. Find more episodes at www.texasveteransblog.com/dogtag. If you have questions about this topic, or suggestions for other podcast topics, call 1-800-252-VETS or email vlbinfo@glo.texas.gov. Visit TexasVeterans.com to find out more about your benefits!

On this episode of The Dog Tag, Matt Elledge talks with Martin Traylor, the Transition Service Manager for the SFL-TAP at Fort Hood. Martin shares his insights on how to get the most out of any military career fair. Martin and Matt have several years of experience working together on Fort Hood to help transitioning service members find their post-military careers. Martin and Matt cover the whole spectrum including how to prepare for a hiring fair, what to do and not do at the hiring fair, and how to follow up with recruiters after the hiring fair. Looking for a job is a full time job, but don't let that discourage you. You already have the skills and training to prepare for any mission and this is no different.     Show Notes: Introduction.  [:50] How to prepare for a job fair.  [3:15] The difference between a recruiter and a hiring manager.  [5:30] Why you must tailor your resume to each job posting and hiring organization.  [6:09] Research the companies featured at an upcoming job fair.  [9:15] How to conduct yourself at the career fair.  [13:23] How to dress appropriately.  [15:24] How to personally interact with recruiters at the fair.  [17:21] What kind of discussions to expect when talking with a recruiter.  [18:10] What to do during and after the job fair to set yourself apart from everyone else.  [21:12] Business cards versus job application packets.  [26:28] Opportunities for Veterans at job fairs on military installations.  [27:27] Online job search resources and social media.  [28:23] Know all you can about the industry and organizations you're interested in.  [31:34] Entrepreneurship often happens three to four years after transitioning out of the service.  [34:01] Martin talks about what being a Veteran means to potential employers.  [36:07]     The Dog Tag® is brought to you by the Texas Veterans Land Board and the Texas Veterans Commission. Find more episodes at www.texasveteransblog.com/dogtag. If you have questions about this topic, or suggestions for other podcast topics, call 1-800-252-VETS or email vlbinfo@glo.texas.gov. Visit TexasVeterans.com to find out more about your benefits!

On this episode of The Dog Tag, our host Matt Elledge talks with two Veterans Education Coordinators from the Texas Veterans Commission (TVC). Fernando "Fuzzy" Conejo and Rand Bindford break down the different types of education benefits available to military members, Veterans and their dependents. Matt, Fuzzy and Rand discuss the different GI Bills, as well as education benefits for vocational and on-the-job training. Don't let these often confusing and complex processes keep you from furthering your education. These are some of the most valuable benefits you've earned through your service, so don't leave them behind. Going to college, or learning a trade, will change the quality of your life for the better.     Show Notes: Guest introductions.  [:51] The different chapters of the GI Bill under CFR 38, Chapter I, Part 21.  [1:48] How to use your GI Bill time to ensure you don't run out of benefits before you complete your education.  [3:08] What other kinds of training and education does the GI Bill cover? [5:35] How to be an apprentice under the GI Bill and how the housing allowance applies to apprenticeships.  [6:09] Chapter 33, Post 9/11 GI Bill: how to calculate the housing allowance rate.  [7:21] Chapter 30, Montgomery GI Bill: how this is different from the Post 9/11 GI Bill.  [9:24] The Yellow Ribbon Program.  [13:36] Education benefits for National Guard and Reservists.  [15:29] Which benefits can be transferred to a dependent.  [16:50] Veterans Educational Assistance Program (VEAP)  [17:56] When Post 9/11 GI Bill became effective.  [18:49] How to use the Post 9/11 Gi Bill for vocational or on-the-job training.  [19:30] The Hazlewood Act for Texas Veterans.  [21:28] What constitutes an "eligible child" in regards to the Hazlewood Act.  [28:26] Survivors & Dependents Assistance (Chapter 35 | DEA) under the GI Bill.  [36:02] Find TVC Education Program Coordinators and Specialists.  [39:54] Depending on your dates of service, how to you transfer your Post 9/11 GI Bill to your dependents.  [41:14] Using your Post 9/11 GI Bill on active duty. [44:44] Post 9/11 GI Bill Book Stipend.  [44:57] How to apply for your Post 9/11 GI Bill and what happens next.  [46:42] How to successfully manage your time on the Post 9/11 GI Bill.  [48:14] Tutorial assistance available under the GI Bill. *Note: There is no entitlement charge for the first $600 under the Montgomery GI Bill. There is no entitlement charge under the Post 9/11 GI Bill or DEA.  [50:35] Using scholarships and financial aid to help pay for college.  [51:17] Use the Veterans' Office within your school, they are there to help.  [53:32]     Helpful Resources: History & Timeline of the GI Bill Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33) Montgomery GI Bill (Chapter 30) Montgomery GI Selected Reserve (Chapter 1606) GI Bill Survivors and Dependents Assistance (Chapter 35) GI Bill Cost Comparison Tool Apply for Education Benefits TVC Email: info@tvc.texas.gov Hazlewood Act VONAPP (Veterans Online Application) VA form 22-1990     The Dog Tag® is brought to you by the Texas Veterans Land Board and the Texas Veterans Commission. Find more episodes at www.texasveteransblog.com/dogtag. If you have questions about this topic, or suggestions for other podcast topics, call 1-800-252-VETS or email vlbinfo@glo.texas.gov. Visit TexasVeterans.com to find out more about your benefits!

On this episode of The Dog Tag, our host Matt Elledge talks to a panel of Texas Veterans Land Board (VLB) loan experts to better understand the Land Loan Program available to Veterans and military members in Texas. The panel includes Bill McLemore, Deputy Director of the Land and Housing Program, Charlotte Mumphord, Director of Loan Operations, and Kim Mangum, Manager of Loan Origination. Buying your own little piece of Texas can sometimes seem like an unattainable dream, but Matt and his team will walk you through the land loan process step by step. They cover everything including how to get pre-approved for a land loan, where to begin your search for land and how the loan process unfolds.     Show Notes: Matt introduces his guests.  [1:09] Eligibility requirements for a VLB Veterans Land Loan.  [3:36] Are there similar programs in other states?  [5:28] How to start the land loan application process.  [7:13] Use a participating VLB Real Estate Professional to find land for sale in Texas.  [7:40] Minimum acreage to purchase, down payment and maximum loan amounts, and loan term.  [7:58] How the VLB differs from other lenders who offer land loans.  [8:34] What if the property you're looking to purchase is over $125K?  [9:57] What credit-worthy and debt-to-income ratio mean.  [10:18] The next step after you receive your pre-approval letter from the VLB.  [15:12] Farm and ranch contracts, legal descriptions and appraisals.  [16:37] Call the VLB if you need help finding a piece of land.  [18:22] What happens while your land loan is processed at the VLB.  [19:10] Appraisal and contract service fees, title companies and closing costs.  [20:13] How the appraised value is determined  [22:11] How the closing costs are calculated.  [23:36] How the land loan is serviced.  [25:28] What is an easement and why is it important?  [26:34] Is it possible to have more than one VLB land loan?  [28:41] VLB Forfeited Land Sales (Type I and Type II)  [29:34] How to apply for property tax exemptions.  [37:08] Can property be transferred to a Veteran's family member?  [38:06] Other VLB loan programs available to Texas Veterans.  [38:35]     The Dog Tag® is brought to you by the Texas Veterans Land Board and the Texas Veterans Commission. Find more episodes at www.texasveteransblog.com/dogtag. If you have questions about this topic, or suggestions for other podcast topics, call 1-800-252-VETS or email vlbinfo@glo.texas.gov. Visit TexasVeterans.com to find out more about your benefits!

It's vitally important that Veterans share their own unique stories. On this episode of the Dog Tag, Matt Elledge talks with Honorèe Corder, author of You Must Write a Book. Honorèe is a writer, speaker and coach for business professionals, writers, and aspiring non-fiction authors who want to publish their own books. Honoree and Matt cover topics including why and how you should write a book, who you should write the book for, and tips on how to self-publish your book. "Please do tell your story," says Honorèe, "Because we won't continue to have the next generation of people who grow up and serve, if you don't tell your story—if you don't tell us what it's really like and why it's so important for us to be patriotic. If we don't continue to have people that stand up and serve, we won't have anything left to protect."     Show Notes: Honorèe Corder Introduction.  [:42] How to write a book.  [2:41] Ask yourself why you want to write a book.  [3:09] You can record your story with the VLB Voices of Veterans Oral History Program.  [4:01] Stories are an important component of human communication.  [4:29] What outcome do you want from your book?  [5:05] Honorèe talks about her connection to the military.  [5:42] Anyone can write a book, everyone has something unique to share.  [7:37] Who are you writing for?  [10:30] How to develop the habit of writing.  [15:05] Find a mentor, coach or accountability buddy to help you stay on track.  [21:42] How to find an experienced coach.  [27:02] How to publish your book.  [28:28] Why passive income is awesome.  [33:21] Why it's so important for Veterans to tell their stories.  [35:23]     The Dog Tag® is brought to you by the Texas Veterans Land Board and the Texas Veterans Commission. Find more episodes at www.texasveteransblog.com/dogtag. If you have questions about this topic, or suggestions for other podcast topics, call 1-800-252-VETS or email vlbinfo@glo.texas.gov. Visit TexasVeterans.com to find out more about your benefits!  

On this tenth episode of the Dog Tag, our host Matt Elledge leads us through an after action review of the first nine episodes. Whether you're currently serving in the military, transitioning out, or a Veteran already, listen to this debrief and discover the topics Matt discussed with his guests, and why they are relevant to you and your family. In the episodes to come, we'll dive deeper into issues pertaining to women Veterans and employment programs. We'll also cover education benefits, how to manage your finances, and the VLB Land, Home and Home Improvement Loan Programs. We encourage all our listeners to reach out and let us know if there is a specific topic you would like us to cover. You can contact us via Facebook, Twitter, email or phone. Listen to the Dog Tag on iTunes, and rate and review us—we welcome your feedback.       Show Notes: #1 How to be Successful in Your First Year as a Veteran  [:43] #2 Unlocking VA Disability Claims Part 1  &  #3 Unlocking VA Disability Claims Part 2  [1:30] #4 Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush  [4:29] #5 Find Your Post-Military Career  [5:03] #6 U.S. Army's Soldier for Life Program  [6:58] #7 Find Your Dream Job with Hiring Our Heroes  [8:21] #8 How the Texas Veterans Commission Serves Texas Veterans  [9:33] #9 The Women Veterans Program at the Texas Veterans Commission  [10:58]     The Dog Tag® is brought to you by the Texas Veterans Land Board and the Texas Veterans Commission. Find more episodes at www.texasveteransblog.com/dogtag. If you have questions about this topic, or suggestions for other podcast topics, call 1-800-252-VETS or email vlbinfo@glo.texas.gov. Visit TexasVeterans.com to find out more about your benefits!

On this episode of the Dog Tag, our host Matt Elledge talks with four amazing Veterans who run the Women Veterans Program at the Texas Veterans Commission (TVC). Women Veterans are a historically underserved segment of our our Veteran population, but this small team of Women Veterans intends to change that here in Texas. Matt and his guests discuss topics including underemployment, homeless Women Veterans, filing VA Disability Claims for military sexual trauma, and much more. Anna Baker, the Women Veterans Program Manager, served as an interpreter in the U.S. Air Force for four years. Pam Maercklein, the Women Veterans Health Care Advisor, served eight years in the U.S. Air Force and was stationed in Japan, Germany and Cheyenne, Wyoming. Julie Puzan, the Women Veterans Employment Coordinator, served six years in the U.S. Air Force as a Weapons Loader on the B-2 Bomber. Carrie Sconza, the Women Veterans Outreach Coordinator, served for 20 years in the U.S. Navy Veteran and retired as a Navy Career Counselor. Stay tuned for future podcasts where we'll dive deeper into each of these subjects with the Women Veterans Program.         Show Notes: Meet the Women Veterans Program team.  [1:48] The mission of the Women Veterans Program.  [7:09] Women Veterans and their employment needs.  [10:10] Confidence Outside the Uniform Summer Series.  [11:20] Join the Texas Women Veterans Professional Network.  [13:16] Attend a Virtual Coffee Webinar online.  [16:06] Many women who served don't realize they're Veterans. You are a Veteran and your service matters- take the pledge!  [18:11] Disability claims for military sexual trauma.  [21:00] VA health care for Women Veterans.  [21:56] The VA provides maternity care for Women Veterans.  [22:33] The Women Veterans Program partners with other organizations to better serve Women Veterans.  [26:29] Alternative therapies for Women Veterans.  [27:20] Assistance for homeless Women Veterans.  [29:40] Transportation for Veterans in rural areas.  [34:56] Advice for women transitioning out of the military.  [38:28]       The Dog Tag® is brought to you by the Texas Veterans Land Board and the Texas Veterans Commission. Find more episodes at www.texasveteransblog.com/dogtag. If you have questions about this topic, or suggestions for other podcast topics, call 1-800-252-VETS or email vlbinfo@glo.texas.gov. Visit TexasVeterans.com to find out more about your benefits!    

On this episode of The Dog Tag, our host Matt Elledge sits down with Col. (ret.) Tom Palladino, the Executive Director of the Texas Veterans Commission (TVC). This Texas State Agency has been serving Veterans in Texas since 1927 and has many programs for Texas Veterans, their dependents and survivors. The TVC has disability claims officers and Veteran representatives in VA hospitals across the state. They have employment services to help Veterans and their spouses find jobs, and an incredible entrepreneur program dedicated to helping Veterans realize their dream of running their own business. The TVC also runs the Military Veteran Peer Network which provides peer-to-peer counseling and the Women Veterans Program, that offers women Veterans traditional assistance with VA health care, disability claims, and employment and education benefits, as well as specialized services like assistance with VA maternity care and counseling for military sexual trauma. The TVC also provides grants to Veteran Service Organizations that provide direct services to Texas Veterans and their families. While the TVC serves a vast population spread across this great state, they remain focused on their mission and are passionate about the services they provide. "I could think of no other way to spend my foreseeable future than to help Veterans," says Tom Palladino.     Show Notes: Tom Palladino Introduction  [1:11] The history of the Texas Veterans Commission (TVC).  [2:00] The TVC provides VA Disability Claims Representation and Counseling to Texas Veterans.  [4:18] The TVC trains County Veterans Service Officers to assist Veterans and their families across the state.  [4:57] Do other states have equivalents of the TVC and County Veterans Service Officers?  [6:33] The TVC works hand in hand with other Veterans Service Organizations including the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled American Veterans and more.  [8:06] The TVC works very closely with the VA to resolve disability claims and expedite appeals.  [8:42] The TVC Texas Veterans Health Care Advocacy Program.  [11:19] The TVC offers employment services to Texas Veterans. [15:19] The TVC works with the Texas State Government to hire Veterans.  [17:49] Have a plan for your future before you leave the service and remember to ask for help.  [19:11] What is Disability Compensation?  [27:05] Register for VA Health Care.  [29:07] How to "talk the talk" in the civilian world while searching for employment.  [29:39] How the TVC helps Veteran Entrepreneurs.  [30:58] How the TVC helps Women Veterans in Texas.  [34:04] TVC Roll Call Events for Women Veterans in Texas.  [36:20] How does the TVC Fund for Veterans Assistance help Veterans?  [38:00] TVC grant categories: General Assistance, Housing 4 Texas Heroes, Veterans Mental Health, Veterans Treatment Court, Federal Transportation.  [39:28] How to apply for a TVC grant to help Veterans.  [43:32] How the TVC grants are funded: Texas Lottery, Vehicle Registration Donations, Driver License Donations and Direct Donations.  [43:43] How the Military Veteran Peer Network (MVPN) provides peer-to-peer counseling for Veterans.  [44:42] The TVC partners with 22 state agencies that form the Texas Coordinating Council of Veterans Services to help Texas Veterans.  [47:47] The TVC helps Texas Veterans access their education benefits.  [48:36] TVC Veteran Education Coordinators collaborate with colleges and universities to support Veterans in their pursuit of higher education.  [54:32] Tom Palladino's advice for transitioning service members.  [57:20]     The Dog Tag® is brought to you by the Texas Veterans Land Board and the Texas Veterans Commission. Find more episodes at www.texasveteransblog.com/dogtag. If you have questions about this topic, or suggestions for other podcast topics, call 1-800-252-VETS or email vlbinfo@glo.texas.gov. Visit TexasVeterans.com to find out more about your benefits!

On this episode of the Dog Tag, our host Matt Elledge talks with Col. (ret.) Chuck Hodges, Senior Director of Events and Programs at Hiring Our Heroes. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation launched this program in March 2011, as a nationwide initiative to help Veterans, transitioning service members and military spouses find meaningful employment opportunities. Over 500,000 Veterans and military spouses have been hired thus far. Chuck Hodges is a 26 year Army Veteran and was Garrison Commander at Joint Base Lewis-McChord from 2012 to 2015. He always encourages everyone to prepare for an HOH Hiring Event, and visit each and every table during the event. "You've done military operations your entire career and you never went on an objective without doing proper reconnaissance ahead of time. If you're interested in a certain company, or certain area of the country, do your research—get on their website, LinkedIn and Facebook pages," Hodges says. “Don’t rule out a company. They need people from across the spectrum.”       Show Notes: Chuck Hodges introduction.  [1:40] The mission of Hiring Our Heroes.  [3:17] HOH hosts Hiring Events nationally and internationally.  [4:54] How HoH helps Veterans in addition to transitioning military.  [5:26] Career Skills Program for transitioning military.  [7:00] (Ask Matt what he's talking about above- is he talking about career skills or corp fellowship?) Who is eligible for the HOH Corporate Fellowship Program.  [11:12] Find HOH Hiring Fairs and Sports Expos held across the U.S.  [12:04] Find an HOH Service Member Transition Summit on a base in your area.  [13:42] Learn more about the  Military Spouse Program and In Gear Career for military spouses.  [15:36] Learn more about the Wounded Veteran and Caregiver Program.  [16:05] HOH offers a suite of Digital Programs under their Hiring Our Heroes Dashboard: Resume Engine Career Spark Virtual Job Scout Fast Track Employer Roadmap All Vet States What job industries are strong at this time?  [17:11] Be open-minded when looking at different companies and organizations.  [18:11] How to register and prepare for an an HOH Hiring Event. [20:07] Chuck shares advice for new Veterans.  [22:20] Understand the value of retirement and health care packages as part of your compensation.  [25:07] If you need assistance please email Chuck at chodges@uschamber.com.  [27:10]     The Dog Tag® is brought to you by the Texas Veterans Land Board and the Texas Veterans Commission. Find more episodes at www.texasveteransblog.com/dogtag. If you have questions about this topic, or suggestions for other podcast topics, call 1-800-252-VETS or email vlbinfo@glo.texas.gov. Visit TexasVeterans.com to find out more about your benefits!  

The best time to prepare for your post-service career is before you leave the military. On this episode of the Dog Tag, our host, Matt Elledge, talks with Charlie Green, Director of Human Resources on Fort Hood, about the Soldier for Life-Transition Assistance Program and the Army Career Skills Program. Both programs were initiated under the Veterans Opportunity to Work (VOW) Act to help the men and women who served our nation find success in today's highly competitive job market.   Show Notes: Charlie Green Introduction.  [:51] How the Soldier for Life-Transition Assistance Program helps service members become successful Veterans.  [2:38] How to market yourself and the assets you acquired while serving in the military.  [5:02] How Soldier for Life helps you prepare for the civilian job market and connect with organizations outside the military.  [9:33] Soldier for Life is committed to helping soldiers and their spouses find employment.  [13:05] What the program provides for Veterans who ETS'd versus Veterans who have retired out of the military.  [17:12] Find Hiring Events and Job Fairs.  [20:06] Every Army Director of HR on every base wants to help soldiers and Veterans find employment.  [23:02] What the Career Skills Program is all about.  [24:09] If you're already out of the military and you see a job opportunity, can you still use the Career Skills Program?  [28:08] Most other military branches offer some type of career skills program or employment assistance.  [29:26] The art of transitioning out of the military successfully.  [31:46]     The Dog Tag® is brought to you by the Texas Veterans Land Board and the Texas Veterans Commission. Find more episodes at www.texasveteransblog.com/dogtag. If you have questions about this topic, or suggestions for other podcast topics, call 1-800-252-VETS or email vlbinfo@glo.texas.gov. Visit TexasVeterans.com to find out more about your benefits!

In this pilot episode of the Dog Tag, subject matter experts from the Texas Veterans Land Board (VLB) and the Texas Veterans Commission (TVC) come together for a round table discussion about your first year out of the military. Transitioning out of the military can be a bumpy ride, but the more information you have about all the benefits, resources and programs available to you as a Veteran, the smoother it will be. Topics will include organizations who offer assistance to military members and Veterans; VA health care and disability claims; medical service records; exit strategies, and more. In future podcasts, we’ll dive deep into each of these subjects individually and share detailed information to help you navigate these often turbulent waters. “I had no idea how strong the Veteran community was until I got out of the military,” said Eric Brown, VLB Deputy Director of Texas State Veterans Cemeteries. “I can say for a fact, that every step of the way during my transition, there was a Veteran standing there waiting to help me along the way and often times it takes a Veteran to help a Veteran.” Speakers:     Matthew Elledge, Jim Bob Mickler, Bill McLemore, Shawn Deabay, Ken Wallingford, Eric Brown, Edie Disler, Anne Evenson Show Notes: Why the VLB is recording podcasts.  [:56] Guest speaker introductions.  [3:00] Why your first year out of the military is so important.  [9:09] How this team of subject matter experts can help you transition to Veteran status.  [9:38] How a County Veterans Service Officer (VSO) can help you.  [10:37] Where you can find a VSO outside of Texas.  [11:54] How a qualified counselor, VSO or Veterans Service Organization representative can help you frame the right questions to find the right answers.  [12:35] When in doubt, call the VLB Texas Veterans Call Service Center: 1-800-252-VETS (8387).  [14:27] Don’t panic if you spaced out while attending the Transition Assistance Program (TAP).  [14:53] Good transition advice from a Marine.  [16:05] Don’t be afraid to ask questions, let Veterans Service Organizations help you.  [17:43] Asking for help is not a sign of weakness.  [18:00] Why service medical records are important.  [18:47] Recognize that once you separate, you are now a Veteran— don’t miss out on the benefits you earned.  [19:55] Who qualifies as a Veteran.  [20:54] Your next mission is to learn how to be a Veteran.  [22:45] Exit strategies: where will you live and what will you do?  [24:33] Enroll in VA health care ASAP!  [26:42] VA health care provides maternity care for women Veterans.  [28:01] VA health care is available anywhere in the nation, or abroad.  [29:40] Keep your family involved while transitioning out of the military.  [30:47]     The Dog Tag® is brought to you by the Texas Veterans Land Board and the Texas Veterans Commission. Find more episodes at www.texasveteransblog.com/dogtag. If you have questions about this topic, or suggestions for other podcast topics, call 1-800-252-VETS or email vlbinfo@glo.texas.gov. Visit TexasVeterans.com to find out more about your benefits! 

Finding a new career after you leave the military can be a daunting task. There are many things to consider including where to live and the job market in that area, educational requirements for particular positions, the minimum income you need to support yourself and your family, and more. In this episode of the Dog Tag, our host, Matt Elledge, talks about employment opportunities for Veterans with Stan Kurtz, Director of Veterans Employment Services, and Shawn Deabay, Director of Program Operations at the Texas Veterans Commission (TVC). They will discuss the importance of having a plan and understanding your career goals, so you can find an organization that's a good fit for you. Whether you're still serving in the military, or you've been a Veteran for a while, it's never too early, or too late, to start thinking about your post-military career!     Show Notes:     Stan Kurtz introduction.  [1:47] Shawn Deabay introduction.  [3:11] What the TVC Veterans Employment Services mission includes.  [5:08] How they assist transitioning service members.  [6:29] Industry liaisons throughout the state of Texas.  [8:11] Why it's important to have a career plan.  [9:20] Company research: what it is and why it's important.  [10:52] How do Veterans all over Texas find Texas Workforce sites?  [12:18] How to start your own business.  [13:06] How to translate your military resume into a civilian resume.  [14:38] Tailor your resume to each job position you apply for.  [16:45] How much money do you need to support your lifestyle?  [18:47] How does education factor in to your decision?  [20:15] How the TVC partners with the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC).  [21:55] How to keep track of all the resumes you're sending out.  [24:03] How social media fits in to your search for employment.  [24:51] Thoughts on growing into your new career.  [26:17] How to determine if an organization is a good fit for you.  [30:15] Understand the value that you can bring to the organization.  [30:48] Interview skills and tips.  [31:21] How the TVC is going to work with you to find employment.  [32:56] What is Veteran's Preference?  [35:35] Final tips for success in finding employment.  [36:32]       The Dog Tag® is brought to you by the Texas Veterans Land Board and the Texas Veterans Commission. Find more episodes at www.texasveteransblog.com/dogtag. If you have questions about this topic, or suggestions for other podcast topics, call 1-800-252-VETS or email vlbinfo@glo.texas.gov. Visit TexasVeterans.com to find out more about your benefits!