We’re back with a much-anticipated round two featuring Kevin Pavnica, a returning guest whose first episode with INvets struck a chord with our community. This time, Kevin joins us to go deeper, not just into his own transition, but into the practical advice, hard truths, and overlooked details that can shape a veteran’s success story post-military.
Drawing from his experience as both a transitioning service member and now a hiring leader at BlackRock Strategy, Kevin shares a powerful blend of insight, empathy, and tactical advice. Whether you’re still in uniform or already navigating civilian life, this conversation has something for you.
🎧 Listen now:
👉 https://youtu.be/d0LyenULWZY
👉 https://open.spotify.com/episode/1SFFzCaBcDOrIflB3EPUEC?si=KZp7Iiv0Tb-6jx5q42jI7Q
🔑 Five Key Takeaways from the Episode
1. TAP Is a Starting Point, Not a Solution
The Transition Assistance Program (TAP) is meant to reduce risk, not personalize your path. Kevin reminds us that TAP is a baseline, not a roadmap. Veterans must take ownership of their transition by supplementing TAP with outside research, mentorship, and networking.
2. AI Is a Tool, Not a Crutch
Kevin dives into the risks and rewards of using AI tools in job searching. While AI can help translate military experience into civilian language, it’s not a substitute for self-reflection and manual resume work. You still have to teach the machine who you are.
3. Know Yourself Before You Say “I’m Open”
One of the most dangerous phrases in a job search? “I’m open.” Employers don’t respond well to ambiguity. Kevin urges veterans to define what they love, what they hate, and what they’re good at, then narrow down from there. Clarity leads to better outcomes.
4. Family Roles Shift. That’s Okay
Transition doesn’t just affect the service member. It transforms family dynamics. Kevin shares candidly how he stepped into a support role as his wife’s career grew, and how teamwork, not ego, is key to thriving after the military.
5. Confidence Beats Entitlement
Veterans often wrestle with imposter syndrome or, conversely, entitlement. The sweet spot? Confidence built on adaptability, problem-solving, and introspection. Kevin encourages service members to articulate their value—through examples, not buzzwords—and to find companies who truly recognize veteran talent.
🎧 Catch the full episode now and share it with someone preparing for their next mission:
🔗 YouTube: https://youtu.be/d0LyenULWZY
🔗 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1SFFzCaBcDOrIflB3EPUEC?si=KZp7Iiv0Tb-6jx5q42jI7Q