Boots 2 Books

Almost Everything's an Acronym: Jargon, Pt. 2

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 14:00:00 -0400

The B2B team dives into military jargon, exploring terms and concepts they encounter that may perplex civilians. This episode aims to bridge the gap between military and civilian perspectives, and foster understanding through communication. Host Rebecca Allen draws from her experience with the Army, to explain essential terminology and get her co-host Dustin Abrego briefed, ready for duty, and Oscar Mike.

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Website: Lansing Community College Center for Veteran and Family Support

Be Bold and Envision Green with Erika Espinoza

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 14:00:00 -0400

On this episode, the B2B team are joined in studio by Erika Espinza, Transfer Advisor Coordinator for Envision Green, a program that supports students transitioning from Lansing Community College to Michigan State University. With an emphasis on early engagement, the program aims to clarify common misconceptions about transfer eligibility, and spotlight how students can connect with advisors even before applying to ensure a smooth, informed transition to MSU.

Mentioned This Episode:

Website: Envision Green

Website: MSU Center for Veterans and Military Affiliated Students

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Website: Lansing Community College Center for Veteran and Family Support

Change Your Socks, Hydrate, & Drive On: Reintegration, Pt. 2

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 14:00:00 -0400

On this episode, the B2B team return to finish their conversation about the often difficult transition from military to civilian life. Through heartfelt stories from guests Roy Fernandez and Dillon Bowling, both reflect on the psychological challenges they faced as veterans of reintegration. After having been tuned to a rigid military structure and mindset, many veterans struggle to adapt to the machinations of civilian life, so it becomes doubly important to help them rediscover purpose and belonging, and see them as having a vital role in the community.

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Website: Lansing Community College Center for Veteran and Family Support

Pathways to Possibility: Reintegration, Pt. 1

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 14:00:00 -0400

On this episode, the B2B team are joined in the studio by Roy Fernandez and Dillon Bowling, both veterans and students navigating their academic paths at LCC. They share their unique experiences as veterans, who have not only transitioned back to civilian life, but also transitioned into higher education. As they attest to, many veterans feel unprepared for life after service, highlighting the importance of support systems like the Veteran Center.

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Website: Lansing Community College Center for Veteran and Family Support

The ABCs of Academics: Jargon, Pt. 1

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 14:00:00 -0400

On this episode, the B2B team dive into higher education terminology, particularly focusing on jargon that may be confusing or clouded by the institutional "fog of war." They dissect key differences in terms such as 'president', 'dean', and 'provost', providing context for their origin in use, as well as clarity on their everyday purpose within academic institutions. The discussion aims to demystify the language used across the landscape of higher education, enabling students to traverse their academic journeys effectively and with confidence.

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Website: Lansing Community College Center for Veteran and Family Support

Duty, Dice, & Dragons: The Veterans Adventure League With Justin Coates

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 14:00:00 -0400

The B2B team welcome Justin Coates into the studio to talk about the Veterans Adventure League, an initiative that fosters camaraderie among veterans through Dungeons & Dragons. Exploring the importance of mental health support and community engagement, they discuss how shared experiences can alleviate social isolation. The episode highlights the benefits of connecting veterans with one another, helping to maintain a supportive network while engaging in fun, fellowship, and a few saving throws to dodge that fireball!

Mentioned This Episode:

Veteran's Adventure League

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Website: Lansing Community College Center for Veteran and Family Support

Unlocking Education With the Keys of Military Service

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 14:00:00 -0400

This podcast episode features Andrew Cosgrove, the director of the Center for Veteran Family Support at Lansing Community College (LCC). He shares his insights on the vital role of education in facilitating the transition from military service to civilian life. Andrew emphasizes that while military experience is valuable, it is often insufficient on its own for securing desirable employment; a relevant educational credential is equally essential. He discusses the various pathways for veterans to obtain the necessary qualifications and highlights the importance of aligning one's career aspirations with educational pursuits. Ultimately, this conversation serves as a reminder of the myriad opportunities available to veterans seeking to navigate their educational and professional journeys effectively.

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Website: Lansing Community College Center for Veteran and Family Support

Finding the Veteran's Voice With Bill Krieger

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 14:00:00 -0400

Join hosts, Dustin Abrego and Rebecca Allen, as they welcome Bill Krieger into the studio to discuss the Veterans Archives, a nonprofit organization dedicated to recording and archiving the histories of veterans. Every veteran has a unique story that deserves to be told, regardless of the nature of their service, and sharing one’s story is not merely an act of remembrance but a vital process of healing for both the storyteller and the audience. Veterans Archives strives to amplify the voice of veterans, as there is profound impact in hearing these stories, stressing the vital importance of how storytelling can bridge the gap between isolation and connection.

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Website: Lansing Community College Center for Veteran and Family Support

From Service to Success: Transitioning Into Academia

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 14:00:00 -0400

On this episode of B2B, Dustin welcomes new co-host Rebecca Allen to the show for a conversation exploring the barriers veterans may encounter when considering higher education. As the VA Coordinator and School Certifying Official for LCC, Rebecca aids students in navigating the various educational benefits and support afforded to veterans and their families. Additionally, they discuss the critical importance of tailored support systems designed to address the unique challenges faced by veterans, including the complexities of understanding VA benefits and the emotional hurdles of reintegrating into academic life.

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Website: Lansing Community College Center for Veteran and Family Support

Courtney Kemp: Insights From a Veteran's Experience

Tue, 13 May 2025 13:00:00 -0400

This podcast episode explores the transformative journey from military service to academic pursuits, emphasizing the experiences of veterans and military-connected students. Our guest, Courtney Kemp, shares his personal narrative of transitioning from a 21-year military career to higher education, highlighting the challenges and triumphs inherent in this significant life change. He discusses the nuances of balancing academic responsibilities with family obligations, particularly as his son embarks on his own collegiate journey.

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Website: Lansing Community College Center for Veteran and Family Support

Navigating the VA Website's GI Bill Comparison Tool

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 13:00:00 -0400

This episode of B2B Boots to Books focuses on the GI Bill comparison tool, an essential resource for veterans and military-connected students navigating their education options. Hosts Dustin Abrego and Kyle Jakob provide a detailed walkthrough of how to effectively use this tool to compare different schools, understand tuition costs, and maximize benefits. They emphasize the importance of being informed about in-state tuition rates and how the GI Bill can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses for education. Listeners learn about the distinctions between public and private institutions, including the financial implications of attending schools like the University of Notre Dame versus Michigan State University. The conversation is filled with insights on financial planning for education and encourages veterans to explore multiple options before making decisions on their academic paths.

Website: GI Bill Comparison Tool

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Website: Lansing Community College Center for Veteran and Family Support

Study Smarter, Not Harder: Success Hacks

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 13:00:00 -0400

This episode of B2B Boots to Books focuses on essential success hacks for veterans and military-connected students navigating their academic journeys. Hosts Dustin Abrego and Kyle Jakob emphasize the importance of establishing effective study habits and creating a conducive study environment. They discuss various study methods tailored to different subjects, highlighting the significance of breaking tasks into manageable segments using techniques like the Pomodoro method. The conversation also emphasizes the necessity of organization, recommending digital tools to keep track of schedules and materials. Listeners are encouraged to build connections with faculty through office hours and to utilize campus resources to enhance their educational experience.

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Website: Lansing Community College Center for Veteran and Family Support

Four Steps to Starting Your College Journey

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 13:00:00 -0400

This episode of B2B focuses on the essential steps for military-connected individuals to transition smoothly into college. Dustin Abrego flies solo on this B2B, outlining four key steps to get started: applying to the college, determining placement levels, seeking academic advising, and understanding financial aid options. Along the way, Dustin offers valuable insights into navigating the complexities of college life and the resources available to help veterans and military families succeed academically.

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Website: Lansing Community College Center for Veteran and Family Support

What Veterans Need to Know About College Choices

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 13:00:00 -0400

This episode of B2B focuses on essential factors veterans and military-connected students should consider when selecting a school. Dustin Abrego and Kyle Jakob emphasize the importance of community and support services, such as veteran resource centers, in fostering a sense of belonging on campus. The hosts discuss various types of institutions, including public, private, and for-profit schools, and highlight the significance of accreditation in ensuring the legitimacy of degrees. They also stress the necessity of filling out FAFSA, as it can unlock additional financial aid opportunities beyond the GI Bill. ______________________________

Website: Lansing Community College Center for Veteran and Family Support

Empowering Veterans: Creating Inclusive College Environments

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 13:00:00 -0400

This podcast episode delves into the unique challenges faced by military-connected students in higher education, highlighting the importance of creating welcoming college environments. Hosts, Dustin Abrego and Kyle Jakob, discuss the stigmas that civilians often hold about veterans and how these misconceptions can impact students' experiences. They emphasize that veterans typically outperform their peers academically, yet face significant hurdles in social integration and acceptance on campus. The conversation covers the need for better training for faculty and staff to understand and support veteran students, as well as the importance of fostering a sense of community through consistent engagement opportunities. Ultimately, the episode advocates for treating veterans as individuals beyond their service, encouraging deeper connections and understanding.

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Website: Lansing Community College Center for Veteran and Family Support

A Boots 2 Books Journey: India Perez's Story

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 13:00:00 -0400

India Perez shares her transformative journey from military service in the Marine Corps to pursuing her education in anthropology, highlighting the importance of finding genuine interests and support systems during the transition to civilian life. As a work-study student and president of the Student Veterans Association (SVA) at Lansing Community College, she emphasizes the challenges veterans face in adapting to academic environments filled with younger peers. India reflects on the emotional growth she's experienced, recognizing how her military background influences her perspective on education and social interactions. By engaging with her family and a newfound group of friends, she's navigated the complexities of civilian life, demonstrating resilience and a commitment to personal development. This conversation offers valuable insights for veterans seeking to transition smoothly into educational pursuits and community connections.

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Website: Lansing Community College Center for Veteran and Family Support

Unlocking Veteran Benefits, Pt. 2

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 13:00:00 -0400

Hosts Kyle Jakob and Dustin Abrego continue their deep dive into the intricacies of educational benefits available for veterans, with a specific focus on the Montgomery GI Bill for Reservists and National Guard members. They clarify the distinctions between various programs, including federal tuition assistance and state-specific benefits like Michigan's MINGSTAP. They emphasize the importance of understanding how to stack these benefits to maximize financial support for education. The discussion also highlights the potential pitfalls of dropping classes while using VA benefits, stressing the need for students to communicate with their financial aid advisors to avoid unintended financial repercussions. Tune in as they navigate the complexities of these programs and offer valuable insights for veterans and military-connected students seeking to further their education.

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Website: Lansing Community College Center for Veteran and Family Support

Unlocking Veteran Benefits, Pt. 1

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 13:00:00 -0400

This episode of B2B Boots 2 Books dives deep into the myriad benefits available to veterans and their families, focusing on how these resources can be effectively utilized for educational purposes. Hosts Kyle Jakob and Dustin Abrego explore the intricacies of the Post-9/11 GI Bill, detailing its coverage for tuition, monthly housing allowances, and additional stipends for books and supplies. They also discuss the Montgomery GI Bill, highlighting its differences and how it can still be relevant for certain veterans, especially when combined with other state programs. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding eligibility and maximizing benefits, urging listeners to consult with educational advisors and utilize resources like va.gov. With insights on transferring benefits to dependents and navigating the complexities of these programs, this episode serves as a valuable guide for veterans transitioning into civilian education.

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Website: Lansing Community College Center for Veteran and Family Support

Navigating the Transition from Military to Civilian Life, Pt. 2

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 13:00:00 -0400

This podcast episode focuses on the critical theme of transitions experienced by veterans and military-connected students as they navigate the shift from service to civilian life and academia. Dustin Abrego and Kyle Jakob continue to share their insights on the challenges of adjusting to a new environment, highlighting feelings of isolation, imposter syndrome, and the struggle to connect with peers who may not share the same life experiences. The hosts emphasize the importance of recognizing oneself as a knowledge holder and the value of sharing experiences to foster connections. They also discuss the detrimental effects of comparing traumas within the veteran community and the need for a more inclusive perspective on what it means to be a veteran. Throughout the conversation, they encourage listeners to utilize available resources and advocate for their own needs as they embark on their educational journeys.

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Website: Lansing Community College Center for Veteran and Family Support

Navigating the Transition from Military to Civilian Life, Pt. 1

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 13:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Boots 2 Books (B2B), Dustin and Kyle do a 30,000 foot overview of the process of exiting military service

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Website: Lansing Community College Center for Veteran and Family Support

Boots 2 Books (B2B) - Podcast Introduction

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 13:00:00 -0400

Welcome to Boots 2 Books (B2B), a podcast for the veteran and military connected student with co-hosts, Kyle Jakob and Dustin Abrego. Kyle is the Coordinator for Lansing Community College's Center for Veteran and Family Support (CVFS). Dustin is an Academic Advisor for CVFS and the former host of Student Success Stories.

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Website: Lansing Community College Center for Veteran and Family Support