{"id":75631,"date":"2023-10-30T17:36:13","date_gmt":"2023-10-30T17:36:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/one.sightlinemg.com\/airforcetimes\/native\/uncategorized\/inspiring-stories-of-veteran-speakers\/"},"modified":"2026-08-08T15:30:39","modified_gmt":"2026-08-08T15:30:39","slug":"inspiring-stories-of-veteran-speakers","status":"publish","type":"native","link":"https:\/\/one.sightlinemg.com\/airforcetimes\/native\/mcon\/inspiring-stories-of-veteran-speakers\/","title":{"rendered":"Inspiring Stories of Veteran Speakers:"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

In the heart of Las Vegas<\/a>, during Veterans Day weekend, a remarkable gathering is beginning to form. MCON 2023 is an epic celebration for veterans and those who stand by them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here\u2019s a quick lineup of some speakers coming to MCON this year!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phyllis Wilson: A Trailblazer and Advocate<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Chief Warrant Officer Five Phyllis Wilson<\/a> served 37 years in the Army, breaking barriers and making history as the most senior Warrant Officer in the entire United States Army Reserve<\/a>. Her journey led her to become a vital member of the Executive Team managing an organization of more than 200,000 personnel. She\u2019s a registered nurse, holds multiple degrees, and is a recognized leader in the military community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phyllis Wilson is the President of the Women in Military Service for America Memorial Foundation<\/a>, an organization dedicated to honoring the 3 million women who have defended America. Her relentless advocacy for veterans\u2019 rights and her trailblazing career inspire all who hear her story.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Melissa Hawkins: Enhancing Human Potential<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Melissa Hawkins<\/a>\u2019 legacy is one of optimizing the human mind, body, and spirit for greatness. As a seasoned Physical Therapist, she specialized in sports medicine and orthopedic trauma. Her career took an extraordinary turn when she served in the Marine Corps Reserve<\/a>, where she became the Senior Enlisted Advisor for the Human Performance Branch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, Melissa works with the Optimizing the Human Weapon System<\/a> program, reshaping how we approach the future fight. Her commitment to the well-being and performance of military personnel has made her a true advocate for human performance optimization.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Joshua Smith: A Marine on a Mission<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n

As a former Marine, Joshua Smith\u2019s journey through military service and the post-service transition was transformative. Working within the Veteran Benefits Administration (VA), he witnessed the inefficiencies in the VA\u2019s disability claims system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Determined to make a difference, Joshua founded the Veteran Benefits Guide (VBG)<\/a> to provide veterans with the support they deserve. He aims to expedite the VA claim process, ensuring veterans receive their rightful benefits. Joshua\u2019s story is a testament to the power of resilience and the determination to leave no veteran behind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dr. Tiffany Tajiri: A Beacon of Inspiration<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dr. Tiffany Tajiri is a licensed and board-certified clinical psychologist, a former professional ballet dancer, and a Freedom Rhythm: E-motion Focused Movement creator.<\/a> Her unique journey combines her passion for dance and neuroscience to inspire awakened living.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As an Air Force Veteran and the first woman to publish a faith-based combat recovery book, \u201cPeace After Combat<\/a>,\u201d Dr. Tiffany is a beacon of hope for veterans seeking to harness the power of their minds. Her commitment to inspiring people to create a life they love is truly inspirational.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Eric Bartell: Committed to Excellence<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Erik Bartel<\/a>l is a husband, father, and entrepreneur. Before co-founding the military energy brand Echelon<\/a>, he spent five years as an infantry officer in the US Army, leading stateside and overseas troops. As a Men\u2019s Health trainer and advisor to top fitness publications and brands, he has built a diverse resume within the fitness industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His passions revolve around family, service, fitness, and building mission-driven brands and communities (usually simultaneously).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Join the Journey of Inspiration<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n

MCON 2023 brings together a diverse group of speakers, each with a unique resilience journey, advocacy, and transformation journey. Their stories are a source of inspiration for veterans and those who stand by them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Join us at MCON 2023 in Las Vegas from November 10-12<\/a>. Hear these voices of inspiration firsthand, connect with like-minded individuals, and discover a community dedicated to empowering veterans and embracing change together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Prepare to be inspired and join the journey of transformation at MCON 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n