Mar 18, 2021
In today’s episode, Colonel Sam Whitehurst welcomes someone who has been a national leader on addressing the challenges that face service members, military spouses, veterans and their families when they transition from active-duty back into their civilian communities.. Today’s guest is Jim Beamesderfer, Vice President, Veterans Initiatives at Prudential.
In this episode, Jim discusses initiatives Prudential has undertaken to address veteran unemployment and underemployment, creating opportunities for military spouses, and enhancing the financial wellness of veterans and their families.. Jim will share the service model he and his team have developed that combines the reach, resources, and values of a company like Prudential and the ideas, influence, and actions of national nonprofits like Dixon Center with service providers at the community level to ensure that veterans and their families succeed in the communities where they live. And lastly, Jim provides his view and insights on what the future holds for veterans as we look toward the end of the pandemic.
Key Takeaways:
[2:18] What are some of the obstacles that military spouses face when they are trying to have their own career?
[4:41] Jim shares about his background, experiences, his own transition, and how he became involved in veteran’s causes.
[9:34] Jim talks about the evolution of the program at Prudential.
[13:30] Jim asks himself: “What can we do to get military talent credentialed?”
[14:05] Jim talks about the matter of military spouses while their husbands are on active duty.
[19:03] Prudential went a step farther to help military families.
[20:36] Jim talks about the initiative called Prudential Pathways.
[25:15] The importance of culture in transitioning service members.
[26:45] Jim talks about Prudential’s several partners.
[27:45] Prudential works to improve the local communities in which their offices are established.
[30:35] The value of awareness.
[32:40] Jim talks about the challenges and opportunities he foresees for veterans and their families in the near future.
[36:25] Jim talks about the military demographics and how the existing programs are reflecting those demographics.
Mentioned in this episode:
Dixon Center: Reaching America
At Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services, we believe our veterans and military families can succeed where they live.
Dixon Center is named after Staff Sergeant Donnie Dixon, who was killed in action on September 29, 2007, in Iraq. Staff Sergeant Dixon was a father, husband, and Soldier who always placed the mission first and the safety of his fellow Soldiers above his own. Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services stands as a testament to his example and leadership.
Tweetables and quotes:
“Companies and employers often have trouble finding veterans to employ.”
“Military spouses are the most loyal employees.”
“Most military spouses want an opportunity for a career.”
“Budgeting, debt managing, and understanding financing are key for every American.”
“The needs of veterans and their families are constantly evolving but the assistance in navigating their financial future is always present.”