After the Uniform
The transition from active duty military to civilian is a difficult one. Leaving the community, the financial security, and the identity often leaves Veterans broken spiritually, mentally, and physically. While struggling with my own transition to civilian life, a Marine I was close to tragically took his own life just weeks before completing his active duty commitment. This event led me to make this six-part bio series about different Veterans who are overcoming some of the difficulties of military transition to serve as inspiration for others in similar situations.
These stories are raw and real. They have inspired me and I hope they inspire you. Thank you.
Episode 1
Drew Wolgemuth
Army Ranger and now entrepreneur, Drew Wolgemuth shares his personal experience transitioning out of active duty military due to a serious injury. Drew talks about some of the ups and downs of post-military life and some of the strategies he has employed to overcome the difficulties. He shares his optimism about the future with his wife Sarah and his startup Wove.
If this video inspired or connected to you in some way, please share it with someone else who may benefit from it.
You can learn more about Drew’s company here: https://wovemade.com/about-us
Episode 2
Rob Alexander
Rob Alexander shares about his experience as a Captain in the United States Marine Corps and how he has found his passion being a fishing boat Captain in South Carolina. He talks about how difficult leaving the military was and shares some advice for others making the same decision.
If this video inspired or connected to you in some way, please share it with someone else who may benefit from it.
You can support Rob’s business at https://www.greenheronadventures.com/
Episode 3
Cole Rath
In After the Uniform, Episode 3, "A Test of Will", Cole Rath reflects on his experience serving in the United States Navy during war time. He shares some of the intense struggles he faced when he decided to transition out of the military and some of the pivotal decisions he made to turn his life around. He talks about life as a Veteran entrepreneur and how his businesses and family bring his life value.
If this video inspired or connected to you in some way, please share it with someone else who may benefit from it.
You can support Cole's business at - https://mountainairroasters.com/
Or the non-profit Cole helps with at - https://www.harmonyacresec.org/
Episode 4
Azaan Stephens
Azaan Stephens talks about his life in Atlanta, Georgia. He shares what led him to enlist in the United States Marine Corps and some of his experiences in service. He shares why he ultimately decided to get out of the military and how the transition has gone for him. He also shares a positive outlook for the future.
If this video inspired or connected to you in some way, please share it with someone else who may benefit from it.
You can support Azaan's personal training at: https://www.instagram.com/ajsuperfit/...
Episode 5
Pat Barrett
In After the Uniform, Episode 5, "It Gets Better", Pat Barrett discusses his time as a Navy Corpsman attached to a Marine Corps Infantry Battalion during war in the Middle East. He openly shares some of the difficulties he faced when getting out of the service and paths he took to overcome these challenges.
If this video inspired or connected to you in some way, please share it with someone else who may benefit from it.
Episode 6
Sophie Funderburk
After the Uniform, Episode 6, "A Mark On Your Soul", features Sophie Funderburk and shares her experience transitioning out of the United States Marine Corps. Sophie discusses her decision to join the military, what it was like to be one of the first females in a combat unit, and how she is feeling now that her time in service has ended. Near the end of her Active Duty contract, Sophie also served as a Company Commander during the withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021 and shares some of her experiences from that pivotal event in American history. All of this episode, other than some archive military footage, was filmed and edited by myself, Ben Steele.
The military related footage is either public domain or given with permission from persons involved in the events. None of the work is open for reuse without permission.
