Phillip Killough shares his journey from military service to civilian life, emphasizing the importance of self-belief, preparation, and finding support during the transition. He discusses his experiences in the U.S. Navy, the challenges of entering the job market, and how his background in theater helped him develop confidence for interviews. Phillip also highlights the significance of building a strong resume and staying connected to the military community while forging a new identity in civilian life.Follow MetroStar ⮕ https://hubs.li/Q03MMdbW0Jobs at MetroStar ⮕ https://hubs.li/Q03MM3ZT0Content Warning: Episodes of The Civvies Podcast may, at times, cover sensitive topics, including but not limited to suicide, abuse, violence, and more. You are advised to refrain from watching or listening to the Podcast if you are likely to be offended or adversely impacted by any of these topics. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker's own and do not necessarily represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of MetroStar. The material and information presented here are for general information purposes only. The MetroStar name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of their owner, and their use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service.

From 30 years in the U.S. Navy to a thriving career in big tech, Allen Keller’s transition is as honest as it is practical. In this episode of Civvies, host Stephanie Holman sits down with Allen to unpack what it really takes to step out of a military identity, embrace change, and build a purposeful civilian life. Alan opens up about redefining his sense of self after service, the support systems and mentorship that made the difference, and why networking is really about conversations—not just job hunting.

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Content Warning: Episodes of The Civvies Podcast may, at times, cover sensitive topics, including but not limited to suicide, abuse, violence, and more. You are advised to refrain from watching or listening to the Podcast if you are likely to be offended or adversely impacted by any of these topics.

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker's own and do not necessarily represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of MetroStar. The material and information presented here are for general information purposes only. The MetroStar name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of their owner, and their use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service.

00:00 From Navy to Civilian Life: Starting the Transition Journey

06:54 Family, Support Systems & Life in Uniform

10:02 Lessons from 30 Years of Service

15:42 Entering Big Tech: From Leader to Individual Contributor

21:52 Adjusting to Civilian Work Culture & Identity Shift

25:46 Imposter Syndrome, Self-Awareness & Growth

34:30 Embracing Change and Being Comfortable with Discomfort

43:31 Professional Development & Lifelong Learning

54:18 Networking, Mentorship & Giving Back

Adam Peters, a U.S. Army veteran and host of the Strategic Veteran podcast, shares his journey of transitioning from military to civilian life. He discusses the challenges veterans face during this transition, including identity, purpose, and community. Adam emphasizes the importance of asking for help and the healing power of sharing stories. He talks about his experiences with ayahuasca and how it has transformed his life, leading him to help others navigate their own transitions. The conversation highlights the significance of support networks and the need for veterans to connect with one another.

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Listen to Adam's Podcast ⮕ The Strategic Veteran | Expert Support for Military to Civilian Transition

Content Warning: Episodes of The Civvies Podcast may, at times, cover sensitive topics, including but not limited to suicide, abuse, violence, and more. You are advised to refrain from watching or listening to the Podcast if you are likely to be offended or adversely impacted by any of these topics.

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker's own and do not necessarily represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of MetroStar. The material and information presented here are for general information purposes only. The MetroStar name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of their owner, and their use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service.

00:00 The Journey of Transition

05:33 Starting the Strategic Veteran Podcast

07:20 Understanding the Purpose Behind the Podcast

15:34 Lessons Learned from Guests

21:50 Common Challenges in Transition

27:08 Rediscovering Identity and Purpose

33:11 The Importance of Community and Support

39:40 Exploring Healing Through Ayahuasca

44:07 Asking for Help and Overcoming Stigma

51:43 Final Thoughts on Transition and Support