Prepare to Compete Podcast

Hosted by Prepare to Compete Podcast

Entrepreneurship Education

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Apr 2026

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About the show

Prepare to Compete Podcast: Guiding veterans and active-duty service members on pivotal topics: VA Disability Benefits, Real Estate strategies, and Entrepreneurship insights tailored for the military mindset. Beyond the basics, we delve into how these areas influence personal well-being, family ties, and financial prowess. For those who've served and their families, this is your compass for navigating challenges and seizing opportunities in every life arena.

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60 recent

April 13, 202652 min

Service Connection & Beyond: 4 Types, Secondary Claims, VA Loans & Policy (S7 E3)

This episode of the Prepare to Compete Podcast focuses on helping veterans understand how the VA establishes service connection, how to leverage secondary claims, how VA disability compensation and the VA home loan can support homeownership, and why staying informed on policy is crucial. The podcast is split into four major segments: 1. Four types of service connection – The hosts walk through direct, secondary, aggravation and presumptive service connection. They clarify what each means and when a veteran might use one over another. A law‑firm explainer on VA service connection reinforces these definitions. 2. Secondary conditions explained – The conversation then zooms in on secondary claims with a knee‑pain example. The hosts stress that a secondary condition must relate back to a service‑connected primary condition and veterans can (and should) claim multiple secondaries even if the primary claim is pending. They warn that instability can cause falls and additional injuries, which may also be claimed. 3. Benefits, financial planning and the VA loan – The third segment connects VA benefits to homeownership. The hosts discuss the VA funding fee (2.15 % on a first‑time use and about 3.3 % on subsequent use) and note that veterans rated at ≥10 % service‑connected disability are exempt from the fee, saving thousands of dollars. They talk about using tax‑free VA compensation to help qualify for a mortgage, warn against lifestyle creep when back‑pay arrives and emphasise debt‑to‑income planning. 4. Policy & staying informed – The final segment zooms out to VA policy changes, including the February 2026 interim rule that rates disabilities based on functioning under medication and a recent Supreme Court case that allows veterans up to 48 months of combined Montgomery GI Bill and Post‑9/11 GI Bill benefits. The hosts tell veterans to avoid clickbait and rumor mills, use official sources like the Federal Register and attend local council meetings and boards to shape policy. ✅ Download the 2026 VA Benefits Pay Chart: https://www.vets4vetsinfo.com/offers/ZfQvjLys Join the Veteran Community: https://www.vets4vetsinfo.com/offers/kVcTNJtX/checkout 🎖️🔗 Schedule A Call: https://www.vets4vetsinfo.com/help 🛑 Please note: We pride ourselves on providing reliable and accurate information. However, all information given in these videos is educational and should serve as a starting point in your individual research journey. We highly recommend contacting trusted experts for individual consultations regarding topics covered in our content. Remember, knowledge is power! 🧠💪➡️ DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION IS RELIABLE BUT NOT GUARANTEED. Always do your own due diligence!

February 27, 202641 min

VA Rating Rule Update: What Changed, Who It Impacts, and What to Do Next S7 E2

This VA rating rule update may change how certain conditions are evaluated—especially when symptoms improve with treatment. In this video, we break the update down in plain English: what changed, why it matters, who it impacts, and what steps veterans should take next if they have a claim pending, are preparing a new claim, or are considering an increase.   🎖️🔗 Schedule A Call: https://www.vets4vetsinfo.com/help 🛑 Please note: We pride ourselves on providing reliable and accurate information. However, all information given in these videos is educational and should serve as a starting point in your individual research journey. We highly recommend contacting trusted experts for individual consultations regarding topics covered in our content. Remember, knowledge is power! 🧠💪➡️ DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION IS RELIABLE BUT NOT GUARANTEED. Always do your own due diligence!

February 17, 20261 hr 4 min

VA Claims in 2026: Retro Pay, Nexus Letters, Buddy Statements & AI (The 4 Things That Matter) S7 E1

Filing a VA claim in 2026 comes down to a few evidence and process decisions that consistently determine outcomes. In this full episode, we break down the four areas that matter most right now: how retroactive pay really works (and what impacts effective dates), what makes a strong nexus letter versus a weak one, how to use buddy statements the right way to support service connection and symptom history, and what veterans should understand about AI and automation in the claims decision process. If you are preparing your first claim, building an increase, or trying to fix a prior denial, this conversation will help you focus on what moves the needle—and avoid common mistakes that slow claims down or weaken evidence. Chapters: 0:00- 2:50 Introduction 2:50- 18:52 Retro Pay to Discharge Date 18:52-30:34 Nexus Letters that Win 30:34-41:50 Buddy Statements that Work 41:50-1:04:46 AI VA Decisions https://www.vets4vetsinfo.com/offers/kVcTNJtX/checkout 🛑 Please note: We pride ourselves on providing reliable and accurate information. However, all information given in these videos is educational and should serve as a starting point in your individual research journey. We highly recommend contacting trusted experts for individual consultations regarding topics covered in our content. Remember, knowledge is power! 🧠💪➡️ DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION IS RELIABLE BUT NOT GUARANTEED. Always do your own due diligence!

February 6, 202635 min

VA Apportionment Rule Change (2026): Who Is Affected + What To Do S6 E9

VA just changed the rules around apportionment—the process where part of a Veteran’s VA benefits may be paid directly to a dependent in certain situations—and this 2026 update could impact families who were planning to file a new request. In this video, Kenneth breaks down what apportionment is in plain English, what changed, who’s most affected, and which exceptions may still apply, so you can avoid wasting months going down the wrong path. If you’re a Veteran paying support, a spouse/ex dealing with child support questions, or a caregiver helping a loved one navigate benefits, this is the clarity you need. Disclaimer: This video is for educational purposes and not legal advice. For situation-specific guidance, consult a qualified professional and review your official VA correspondence. ✅ Download the 2026 VA Benefits Pay Chart: https://www.vets4vetsinfo.com/offers/ZfQvjLys

January 27, 202614 min

3 Things VA Raters Need to Approve Your Disability Compensation Claim S6 E8

In this episode, we break down the three key things VA raters look for to approve a disability compensation claim—and why so many veterans get denied even when they have a diagnosis. We’ll walk through what “good evidence” actually means from a rater’s perspective, how service connection is established, and the common gaps we see that delay or derail claims. You’ll also learn how to strengthen your file with the right medical documentation, how to think about nexus language and DBQs, and what to do next if you’ve already been denied. If you want help mapping your best next step and avoiding unnecessary denials, visit vets4vetsinfo.com/help. ✅ Download the 2026 VA Benefits Pay Chart: https://www.vets4vetsinfo.com/offers/... Join the Veteran Community: https://www.vets4vetsinfo.com/offers/... 🎖️🔗 Schedule A Call: https://www.vets4vetsinfo.com/help 🛑 Please note: We pride ourselves on providing reliable and accurate information. However, all information given in these videos is educational and should serve as a starting point in your individual research journey. We highly recommend contacting trusted experts for individual consultations regarding topics covered in our content. Remember, knowledge is power! 🧠💪➡️ DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION IS RELIABLE BUT NOT GUARANTEED. Always do your own due diligence!

January 5, 202623 min

100% P&T Benefits S6 E7

100% P&T is more than a monthly check—it can unlock major cost-saving benefits that many Veterans miss. In this episode, we break down the real-world value of 100% P&T, including healthcare that can replace a “second mortgage,” property tax relief that creates long-term savings, vehicle perks like registration benefits, and a powerful homebuying advantage through the VA loan funding fee waiver (plus the “income boost” that can help qualifying Veterans). If you’re rated—or working toward a rating—this is the roadmap to benefits that can change your bottom line. Chapters: 00:00:00 Intro 00:03:00 100% P&T isn’t just money 00:06:00 VA Healthcare Benefits: What 100% Service-Connected Veterans Get 00:11:00 Property Tax Exemptions: The Lifetime Savings Many Disabled Veterans Miss 00:15:00 Disabled Veteran Vehicle Benefits: Registration, Plates, and More 00:19:00 VA Loan Advantage for 100% P&T: Funding Fee Waiver + Stronger Buying Power   ✅ Download the 2026 VA Benefits Pay Chart: https://www.vets4vetsinfo.com/offers/ZfQvjLys Join the Veteran Community: https://www.vets4vetsinfo.com/offers/kVcTNJtX/checkout 🎖️🔗 Schedule A Call: https://www.vets4vetsinfo.com/help 🛑 Please note: We pride ourselves on providing reliable and accurate information. However, all information given in these videos is educational and should serve as a starting point in your individual research journey. We highly recommend contacting trusted experts for individual consultations regarding topics covered in our content. Remember, knowledge is power! 🧠💪➡️ DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION IS RELIABLE BUT NOT GUARANTEED. Always do your own due diligence!

December 22, 202551 min

Is a 50-Year Mortgage a Trap or a Tool? S6 E6

50 year mortgage, 50-year mortgage, long term mortgage, ultra long mortgage, VA loan, VA home loan, veteran homeownership, veterans for veterans, Prepare to Compete, Kavon Jones, Kenneth Davis, housing affordability, rent vs buy, real estate 2025, Nevada real estate, military home buying, active duty homeownership, VA loan tips, home buying strategy, real estate investing Chapters:  00:00 – Is a 50-Year Mortgage a Trap or a Tool? (Hook)  02:42 – Why Housing Feels Broken: Prices, Wages & Rent vs Buy  04:14 – From 15 to 30 to 40–50 Years: How Longer Mortgages Change the Payment  07:52 – VA Loans & Local Markets: What a 50-Year Term Could Mean for Veterans  13:17 – Investors, Supply, Appreciation & Who Really Wins  22:54 – Debt, Lifestyle & AI: The Bigger Economic Problem Behind 50-Year Loans  30:58 – Buying Earlier vs Never Buying: Rethinking the American Dream  41:25 – Action Plan: How Active Duty & Veterans Can Position Themselves to Own ✅ Download the 2026 VA Benefits Pay Chart: https://www.vets4vetsinfo.com/offers/ZfQvjLys Join the Veteran Community: https://www.vets4vetsinfo.com/offers/kVcTNJtX/checkout 🎖️🔗 Schedule A Call: https://www.vets4vetsinfo.com/help 🛑 Please note: We pride ourselves on providing reliable and accurate information. However, all information given in these videos is educational and should serve as a starting point in your individual research journey. We highly recommend contacting trusted experts for individual consultations regarding topics covered in our content. Remember, knowledge is power! 🧠💪➡️ DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION IS RELIABLE BUT NOT GUARANTEED. Always do your own due diligence!

November 10, 202518 min

VA COLA Increase 2026: What This Year’s 2.8% Raise Really Means for Veterans S6 E5

The 2026 VA COLA (Cost-of-Living Adjustment) is official — and that means a 2.8% increase in monthly compensation for veterans receiving VA disability, DIC, or pension benefits. In this video, the Prepare to Compete team breaks down exactly what this raise means for veterans at 50% and 100% service connection, when you’ll see it reflected in your pay, and whether it’s enough to keep up with inflation. You’ll also hear practical advice on how to stay financially strong in 2026 — from budgeting tips and benefit updates to strategies every veteran should know to make the most of their increase. ✅ Download the Veteran Success Blueprint ebooks at vets4vetsinfo.com for resources to navigate VA claims and maximize your benefits. Join the Veteran Community for Free: https://www.vets4vetsinfo.com/offers/Z97W2vqP/checkout?coupon_code=VET2024 🎖️🔗 For VA More Information: https://www.vets4vetsinfo.com/Help  00:00 — COLA 2026: What Changes & Who It Affects 01:00 — Why This Matters Now (context & veteran impact) 02:15 — What COLA Is & How VA Uses SSA’s Rate 05:00 — Real Dollars: 2.8% Examples at 50% vs 100% (no dependents) 07:00 — Is 2.8% Enough? Inflation Reality & Smart Money Tips 10:20 — When You’ll See It + Retro/Eff. Dates: How Back Pay Calculates 14:20 — Action Checklist: Direct Deposit, Dependents, VA.gov/ID.me Logins 17:10 — Bottom Line & How to Get Help (claims, appeals, planning) 🛑 Please note: We pride ourselves on providing reliable and accurate information. However, all information given in these videos is educational and should serve as a starting point in your individual research journey. We highly recommend contacting trusted experts for individual consultations regarding topics covered in our content. Remember, knowledge is power! 🧠💪➡️ DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION IS RELIABLE BUT NOT GUARANTEED. Always do your own due diligence!

November 6, 20251 hr 32 min

Not All Battles End Overseas: A Vietnam Marine’s Truth

🎖️ Charles Cook was 18 when he joined the Marine Corps, served during the Vietnam War, and came home thinking he’d be welcomed. Instead, he found himself caught between two Americas — one that sent him to war, and another that turned its back when he returned. In this powerful conversation, Mr. Cook opens up about his service, segregation, brotherhood, mental health, addiction, healing through faith, and his fight for the next generation of Black youth. This is not just a war story. This is a story of what happens after the uniform comes off. 🔔 Subscribe to hear more untold stories from veterans. 💬 Leave a comment to honor Mr. Cook and other heroes like him. ✅ Download the Veteran Success Blueprint ebooks at vets4vetsinfo.com for resources to navigate VA claims and maximize your benefits. Join the Veteran Community for Free: https://www.vets4vetsinfo.com/offers/...  🎖️🔗 For VA More Information: https://www.vets4vetsinfo.com/Help  🛑 Please note: We pride ourselves on providing reliable and accurate information. However, all information given in these videos is educational and should serve as a starting point in your individual research journey. We highly recommend contacting trusted experts for individual consultations regarding topics covered in our content. Remember, knowledge is power! 🧠💪➡️ DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION IS RELIABLE BUT NOT GUARANTEED. Always do your own due diligence!

October 29, 202524 min

Government Shutdown 2025: VA Backlog, Furloughs & Skeleton Crews — What to Do? S6 E4

In this video, we break down what the 2025 government shutdown really means for veterans: how VA furloughs and skeleton crews slow service, why the backlog grows, and—most importantly—what you can do right now to protect your benefits and keep your claim moving. You’ll learn how to prioritize time-sensitive steps (responding to VA letters, evidence requests, C&P scheduling), how to track your status on VA.gov and with your VSO, when to consider a Higher-Level Review or Supplemental Claim, and how to avoid common delays (missing forms, outdated contact info, incomplete medical evidence). We also cover direct deposit checks, healthcare access, and smart documentation habits so you’re ready when operations normalize. If you’re a veteran navigating claims or appeals during the shutdown, this is your clear, no-nonsense guide—watch through, take notes, and share with someone who needs it. Subscribe for more veteran-focused tips and updates from Prepare to Compete. 00:00 – VA Shutdown 2025: What to Do 01:00 – What’s Impacted vs Still Running 04:00 – Furloughs & Skeleton Crews 05:00 – Backlog Now (130–140k): Why It Matters 10:00 – Real Timeline: 6–12 Months 12:00 – Keep Your Claim Moving (Checklist) 16:00 – Pre-Separation Planning (Money, Exams) 22:00 – Next Steps & Resources ✅ Download the Veteran Success Blueprint ebooks at vets4vetsinfo.com for resources to navigate VA claims and maximize your benefits. Join the Veteran Community for Free: https://www.vets4vetsinfo.com/offers/Z97W2vqP/checkout?coupon_code=VET2024 🎖️🔗 For VA More Information: https://www.vets4vetsinfo.com/Help 🛑 Please note: We pride ourselves on providing reliable and accurate information. However, all information given in these videos is educational and should serve as a starting point in your individual research journey. We highly recommend contacting trusted experts for individual consultations regarding topics covered in our content. Remember, knowledge is power! 🧠💪➡️ DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION IS RELIABLE BUT NOT GUARANTEED. Always do your own due diligence!