Welcome to the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery.

In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom, Jodi, and guest John Broda, President and CEO of Armed Forces Financial Network (AFFN), discuss the powerful role of AFFN to military banks and defense credit unions. They also passionately discuss their mission of spreading kindness through acts of generosity and how AFFN supports their cause.

“Militarily Speaking” is a podcast produced by Armed Forces Bank that is dedicated to the military lifestyle and all the things that makes military community who they are.

Ep. 39 – Military Philanthropy with John Broda from Armed Forces Financial Network

In today’s episode, we talk with John Broda, President and CEO of the Armed Forces Financial Network (AFFN). John has a wealth of experience, having been with AFFN for 36 out of its 37-year history. He shares his journey in the banking industry, which started when he was a part-time teller in high school and continued through his college career. After graduation, he continued in the banking industry and eventually became the Senior Vice President of EDS CNS.

John discusses the integral role AFFN plays behind military banks and defense credit unions' ATM and debit card programs. AFFN handles all the connectivity between the issuer, like Armed Forces Bank, and the acquirer or retailer or ATM. Essentially, AFFN is responsible for the behind-the-scenes operations that allow transactions to happen smoothly.

Career, Education, and Philanthropy

Beyond his corporate achievements, John's commitment to philanthropy and his deep-rooted passion for the military and nonprofit sectors also take center stage in his life. His enthusiasm for these sectors is palpable, reflecting in the extensive connections he has built throughout his career. He talks about his contributions to various industry oversight committees, religious community organizations, and, notably, veteran and military-focused charities.

His profound dedication to philanthropy positions him as a leader in this field, setting an example for his family and community on the strength and impact of service. The hosts and John also discuss how he manages to balance his demanding professional life with his philanthropic endeavors, underscoring the importance of giving back to the military community.

Family Ancestry and Work-Life Balance

John then discusses his familial ties to the military, the impact of his ancestry on his career, and how he balances a demanding professional life with philanthropic pursuits.

John reveals his ancestral lineage that dates back to the Revolutionary War. This history has given him a profound appreciation for the sacrifices made by the military community, which further fuels his commitment to serving them through his role at AFFN.

However, managing a busy professional life alongside philanthropic commitments can be challenging. John acknowledges that maintaining a work-life balance is one of the greatest challenges he faces. To manage this, he emphasizes the importance of time management and being present for those who need him at specific times. Despite the hectic nature of his schedule, his passion for serving the military and nonprofit sectors drives him forward.

Giving Tuesday Military Program

The conversation then shifts to the Giving Tuesday Military Program, an organization designed to inspire and uplift military spouses and veterans. John discusses the organization's mission to spread kindness through random acts of generosity, and how AFFN provides financial support and matching grants to their ambassadors.

Moreover, John discusses his method of balancing work and philanthropy by treating every day as an opportunity to give back. Despite his busy schedule, he finds time to engage with this organization, underscoring his commitment to service and generosity. He further encourages listeners to get involved with organizations like the Giving Tuesday Military Program.

Getting Involved in Military Nonprofit Organizations

John then delves into the topic of getting involved in military non-profit organizations. The conversation provides valuable insight into the process of vetting organizations and how one can use their passions and talents to make a difference.

John shares that one of the most important steps to getting involved in military non-profit organizations is vetting the organization. He advises listeners to check the reputation of the organization they wish to support. This can be done by looking at Better Business Bureau ratings or local rotary clubs to ensure the organization is reputable and trustworthy. Unfortunately, some organizations may take advantage of the goodwill of citizens, making this step crucial in the process of choosing a non-profit to support.

John emphasizes the importance of aligning one's passion and talents with the organization or cause they choose to support. For instance, if someone is a baker or chef, they could consider preparing meals for a Fisher House in their community. If they knit or crochet, they could make baby bonnets for NICUs or scarves and mittens for the homeless. For those with musical talent, they could volunteer to play music at military retirement homes, nursing homes, or hospice organizations.

He also mentions a unique initiative where individuals hang items such as scarves or mittens in ziploc bags with notes near soup kitchens for the homeless. This creative idea serves as an example of how individuals can use their talents and resources to support their community in unique and meaningful ways.

Military Minute

Jodi introduces the Military Minute segment of the show, beginning by closing out last episode’s Military Minute.

●     Last episode’s Military Minute: What father and son duo has each scored 50 goals in a season?

●     Answer: Bobby and Brett Hull

●     This week’s Military Minute question: What are the first names of the founders of Johnson & Wales University?

●     Watch for Facebook and Instagram posts about this episode.

●     Answer with the correct answer and you plus a charity of your choice can each win $50.

●     John Broda also pledged a matching donation to the charity and the winner of this week’s Military Minute.

Tom closes the episode by asking listeners to go to www.afbank.com and subscribe to the show, as well as leave a rating and comment on your favorite podcast platform such as Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Join us to hear how to better navigate your finances, military life, and the crossroads of the two.

Visit www.afbank.com