City of Billings beef up veteran support through VET READY Program
Billings, Mont.—Montana ranks among the top states for veteran population per capita, according to VA.gov. However, Pew Research Center reports that 50 percent of veterans leave their first job after service within the first year, and up to 65 percent leave within two years. Additionally, Montana consistently ranks among the highest for veteran suicide rates, as noted by Mental […]
Reflections on Veterans’ Mental Health: A Call to Connect, Include, and Uplift
As we speed toward the close of 2024, it’s natural for me to reflect on the growth and opportunities I’ve experienced this year through my company Max Fab Consulting and nonprofit Vet READY. I’ve forged new relationships, welcomed amazing clients, and added new members to the VET READY community. While the focus has broadened, veteran […]
Move to the Right or Left
I know the title might have caught your eye for its political ring. But before you think this is about elections or political stance, let me assure you: it’s about something far more straightforward yet profoundly impactful. I’m writing this from Sweden, where I’ve been fully immersed in the local culture and have enjoyed conversations […]
Veteran’s Day: A Call to Serve, Not Just Celebrate
There is a day in November that most of us recognize with a day off work, maybe even a coveted three-day weekend. It’s a day filled with parades, celebrations, speeches, flags, and family. No, I’m not talking about Thanksgiving. I’m talking about Veteran’s Day—November 11th. It’s a day that sometimes falls on a Monday or […]
Reconnecting with History: How El Dorado Outfitters Helps You Rediscover Passion and Purpose
There’s a unique magic in stepping away from the daily grind and reconnecting with our history. Many of us take trips to escape, have fun, and explore new passions—whether camping, traveling, or pursuing hobbies. We often think we know exactly what the experience will bring, but sometimes, unexpected moments enrich and improve our lives. These […]
Words Matter: A Leadership Lesson in Choosing Carefully
As leaders, one of the most critical yet often overlooked skills is the power of our words. It’s easy to forget how impactful our language can be, especially in high-pressure or emotionally charged moments. An experience from years ago taught me a lasting lesson on the weight of words and their ability to create ripple […]
What it takes to be still
This past week has been full of reflection, fueled by two significant moments: time spent with my men’s group and a quiet Sunday morning in church. Both experiences triggered some deep reflection about navigating the constant motion of life, facing challenges, and seeking peace amidst it all. In my men’s group, we discussed how we […]
Beware of Toxic Leaders
Among the many hats I wear, one of the most fulfilling is that of a coach and mentor. Some might say I should charge for it, and perhaps they’re right, but in many ways, it feels like the ultimate form of service, almost divine work. Coaching is a powerful word, and mentoring stands right beside […]
Life Lessons from the Duffel Bag
Life’s funniest moments often bring the most profound lessons. Recently, I had an eye- opening experience that reminded me of the simplicity we can get into our lives and how those with simpler lives often thrive. This reflection was sparked by thinking about “stuff”—the things we believe we need, how much we genuinely use, and […]
Leaders Get What They Deserve (or create)
It has been a wild week in Arizona, and as I make my way back to Montana, I find solace in the thought of seeing my granddaughters soon and spending some quality time with my boys. As I ponder this, I also reflect on where they all are in life, what they have become, how […]