Shows
VET S.O.S. PodcastMTRS - Veteran Mental Health Matters: JMach’s MissionThis week on the VET S.O.S. Military Transition Resources Show, we sit down with Marine Corps veteran, mental health advocate, and host of The JMach Podcast, JMach—a man on a mission to change the narrative around Veteran Mental Health.After a failed attempt to become a police officer, a painful injury, and an identity crisis post-service, JMach spiraled into a dark place. But through therapy, community, and raw self-reflection, he found a path to healing. Today, he leads powerful conversations with veterans and first responders—on and off the mic—proving that vulnerability is not we...
2025-10-0130 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastFeeding Veterans with Dignity: Farm2Veteran’s MissionOn this episode of the VET S.O.S. Military Transition Resources Show, Shawn and Keith welcome Michelle Keller, Senior Director of Development for Farm2Veteran. This innovative nonprofit is tackling veteran food insecurity by delivering fresh, locally-sourced meals to those who need it most—all at no cost to the veteran.Michelle discusses the powerful mission behind Farm2Veteran, their national expansion to 9 states in just 5 years, and how partnerships with other veteran service organizations allow them to focus on what matters—feeding heroes with dignity.Get the inside scoop on the upcoming Farm Fres...
2025-08-2030 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastSecurity Clearance Job Search: How ClearanceJobs Helps Veterans SucceedIn this episode of the VET S.O.S. podcast, hosts Shawn Welsh and Keith Cassant talk with Katie Helbling, content creator at ClearanceJobs and host of the Security Clearance Careers podcast. Katie brings her trademark humor and honesty as she discusses how veterans can successfully navigate the security clearance job search after leaving the military.Katie offers a behind-the-scenes look at the ClearanceJobs platform and explains how it differs from other job boards like USAJobs and LinkedIn. Learn why creating your profile early—before your out date—is crucial, how to maintain your clearance status under the...
2025-07-1630 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastVeteran Workforce Development in Action: Operation LifelineRetired Air Force Lt. Col. Erick Saks joins VET S.O.S. to discuss Operation Lifeline, a nonprofit empowering veterans through housing, SkillBridge internships, and hands-on job training. Discover how Veteran Workforce Development is at the heart of this growing grassroots movement reshaping what veteran support can be.🎙 Hosted by Shawn Welsh & Keith Cassant🌐 Learn more at opLifeline.org#VeteranWorkforceDevelopment #SkillBridge #VeteranSupport #NonprofitLeadership #VetCareers #ConstructionTraining #PostMilitaryJobs #OperationLifeline #CommunityService #TransitionPrograms #vetsos
2025-07-0935 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastHealing Through Horses: Equine Therapy for Veterans with Katie Fallon🎙 Healing Through Horses: How Equine Therapy Supports Veterans | VET S.O.S.In this episode, we’re diving into the healing power of equine-assisted therapy with Katie Fallon, Founder & Executive Director of Bridle Paths.With over two decades of experience in equine-assisted psychotherapy and therapeutic riding, Katie shares how her journey led to helping veterans, service members, and military families overcome invisible wounds like PTSD, anxiety, depression, and traumatic brain injuries.💡 Learn how horses, as intuitive, non-judgmental partners, create a safe space for healing and how Bridle Paths’ programs help veterans reconnect, regulate their emot...
2025-05-1431 min
Lessons Learned for VetsDropping Military Transition Truth Bombs with Keith CassantSend us a textWhat happens when your dream job becomes uncertain during a government reduction in force? Keith Cassant, a retired Army veteran and sought-after transition expert, returns to the podcast with powerful insights about navigating unexpected career changes.Keith opens up about his journey since military retirement in 2019, sharing how he found his "dream job" as Veterans Program Manager at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. Despite rating his role at an impressive 4.2 out of 5 on his famous "five factors" scale, Keith now faces uncertainty due to federal workforce reductions. His candid discussion...
2025-05-0744 min
Warrior Vetrepreneur PodcastWarrior Vetrepreneur Podcast: Keith Cassant🎙️ Veterans & Military Spouses – This One’s for You!In this episode of the Warrior Vetrepreneur Podcast, we sit down with Keith Cassant—Veterans Program Manager at CISA (Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency) and Co-Host of the VET S.O.S. Podcast.With over 25 years of service in the military and federal government, Keith has made it his mission to empower veterans and military spouses with the tools and guidance they need to transition successfully into purpose-driven careers. Whether you're navigating VA claims, exploring federal job opportunities, or seeking clarity in your next chapter—this conversa...
2025-03-2633 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastEmpowering Veteran Transitions: Abigail G. Manning on Purple Threads and Authentic HealthIn this transformative episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, hosts Shawn and Keith are joined by the inspiring Abigail G. Manning, founder of Create Awareness...Change Lives, Inc. Abigail brings a wealth of knowledge and lived experience to her work as a mindset coach, empowerment speaker, and workshop instructor. With a unique blend of academic expertise and real-world resilience, she’s made it her mission to empower others to thrive during life’s most challenging transitions.Drawing from her personal story of overcoming childhood abuse, domestic violence, entrepreneurial struggles, and dyslexia, Abigail developed the Purple Threads framework and...
2025-02-2630 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastHow the Adopt-A-Vet Dental Program is Changing Veterans’ Lives | Interview with CEO Deme GonzalezIn this emotional and inspiring episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, hosts
Keith and Shawn welcome Deme Gonzalez, the passionate CEO of the
Adopt-A-Vet Dental Program. Deme dives into the incredible work his
organization is doing to provide free dental care for low-income
veterans, addressing an often-overlooked area of healthcare that
profoundly affects quality of life.
The conversation covers the origin story of the program, which began 15
years ago with a simple desire to help a few veterans and has since
grown into a statewide initiative in Nevada. With over $10 million worth
of free dental services provided...
2024-11-2729 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastMilitary Transition Success: Wendi Wray’s Journey & Tips for Women Veterans | VetSOS PodcastIn this empowering episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, hosts Shawn and
Keith sit down with Wendi Wray—a devoted woman of God, wife, mother of
three, Army veteran, and passionate advocate for women veterans. Wendy
shares her deeply personal and inspiring journey of transitioning from
military life, highlighting the lessons she’s learned and the unique
challenges faced by service members, especially women, during this
critical time.Wendi discusses how she prepared emotionally,
mentally, and financially for her transition and offers practical advice
for others. She touches on the importance of seeking support,
leveraging resources, and...
2024-11-2034 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastTransforming Veterans' Lives: Wounded Veterans Relief Fund's Dental Program Spotlight🎙️ VetSOS Podcast: Transforming Lives Through Dental Care for Veterans 🦷In this powerful episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, hosts Shawn and Keith
are joined by Tammy Martin, Senior Dental Program Manager at the Wounded
Veterans Relief Fund (WVRF). Tammy shares her inspiring journey of
dedicating over 35 years to the dental field and how she now helps
veterans in Florida overcome critical dental challenges to improve their
health, confidence, and quality of life.💡 Topics Covered:- The shocking gap in dental care for veterans—why only 15% qualify for VA dental benefits- How WVRF bridges the g...
2024-11-1330 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastMastering Military Transition: Expert Tips, Resources, and Inspiring Stories from VetSOS PodcastIn this milestone live episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, recorded
on-site at the Military Influencer Conference (MIC), hosts Keith and
Shawn bring together a powerhouse panel of transition experts and
advocates. Joined by former co-host Eric Brew and special guests
Kingsley Scott and Matthew Wee, this discussion dives deep into the
challenges, lessons, and opportunities of transitioning from military to
civilian life.
Kingsley Scott shares his journey of rising from the ashes, rebuilding
his confidence through an internship, and ultimately becoming a director
while launching his own initiative, Phoenix Solution Enterprise.
Matthew Wee reflects on his...
2024-11-0628 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastSupporting Military Families Nationwide: Jon Jerome of H.E.R.O.E.S. CareIn this impactful episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Keith speak
with Jon Jerome, President of H.E.R.O.E.S. Care, about the
organization’s extraordinary efforts to support military families and
wounded warriors since 2004. From its humble beginnings with care
packages to becoming a nationwide network of hope, H.E.R.O.E.S. Care
continues to make a difference.Jon shares the story of
H.E.R.O.E.S. Care, which has distributed thousands of care packages,
cards, and letters and expanded into the H.E.R.O.E.S. Ca...
2024-10-2329 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastJose Velazquez on Mastering Military Transition & Digital NetworkingIn this powerful episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Keith share an
engaging conversation with Jose Velazquez, a 30-year Army veteran and
founder of Velasquez Media Consulting. Jose dives into his journey of
transitioning from the military during the COVID-19 pandemic, the
hurdles he faced, and how he turned those challenges into opportunities
to help others.Jose’s expertise as a certified digital
networking coach and his passion for supporting veterans, military
spouses, and transitioning service members shine throughout the
discussion. From practical LinkedIn tips to actionable networking
strategies, this episode is packed with insights fo...
2024-10-1630 min
Security Halt!#214 From Military to Civilian: Keith Cassant's Journey to Finding Purpose, Passion, and a Dream JobLet us know what you think! Text us!In this episode of the Security Halt! podcast, host Deny Caballero speaks with Keith Cassant, co-host of the VET S.O.S podcast, about his journey from the military to civilian life. Keith shares his personal story, from his upbringing to his passion for music, which led him to join the Army band. He opens up about the challenges he faced during his transition, including struggles with low self-esteem and substance abuse.Keith emphasizes the importance of seeking help and utilizing available resources during the transition. He s...
2024-09-2555 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastOvercoming Military Transition & Mental Health Struggles | Deny Caballero on Security Halt! PodcastIn this deeply impactful episode of VET S.O.S. Podcast, host Keith and
Eric welcome Deny Caballero, a retired Green Beret, mental health
advocate, blogger, podcaster, and mentor. Deny shares his inspiring
journey from serving as a Green Beret to becoming a mental health
advocate for veterans and civilians alike. Throughout their
conversation, Deny delves into the emotional and psychological
challenges that come with transitioning out of the military, especially
for those who served in elite units like the Green Berets.Deny
opens up about his personal struggles with mental health, including
depression, anxiety, and PTSD, and...
2024-09-1834 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastTransition 30: Essential Tips for Military-to-Civilian Success with Todd NelsonIn this powerful episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, hosts Shawn and
Keith sit down with Todd Nelson, founder of Transition 30 and a
financial advisor, to discuss how transitioning service members can
confidently move into their post-military lives. Todd's personal
journey, from serving as a minister to becoming a financial advisor,
highlights the importance of trust, adaptability, and a passion for
service.What to Expect:- Todd’s Journey: Discover how Todd’s
career path led him to work with transitioning veterans and why trust
and community are at the heart of his mission.- Tr...
2024-07-1031 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastVeteran Transition Stories & STAR Program | Chris Elder & Yogi Hernandez on Mil2VetWelcome to Season Four of the VET S.O.S. Podcast! In this powerful
episode, hosts Shawn Welsh and new co-host Keith Cassant are joined by
Chris Elder and Yogi Hernandez, the co-hosts of the Mil2Vet podcast.
Chris and Yogi share their unique and inspiring experiences of
transitioning from military service to civilian life. They highlight the
challenges and emotional toll that veterans face during their
transitions, offering invaluable insights for others going through
similar journeys.Chris Elder’s Transition StoryChris, a
veteran and horse boarding facility manager, opens up about his medical
retirement due to...
2024-07-0329 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastNavigating Military to Civilian Life: Alfredo Torres' Transition Credit ScoreJoin hosts Shawn Welsh and Keith Cassant as they celebrate a major
milestone—100 episodes and two incredible years of the VET S.O.S.
Podcast! This special episode features Alfredo Torres, a 13-year Navy
veteran and executive assistant at the U.S. Forest Service. Alfredo is
well-known for his vibrant "Paisley Prince" persona and his impactful
virtual community, Alfredo's Coffee House, where veterans come together
to discuss transition challenges and important life topics.Alfredo
shares his powerful journey from military service to becoming a leader
in the veteran transition space. He unveils his innovative concept of a
"transition cr...
2024-06-1134 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastNavigating Military to Civilian Life: Alfredo Torres' Transition Credit ScoreJoin hosts Shawn Welsh and Keith Cassant as they celebrate a major milestone—100 episodes and two incredible years of the VET S.O.S. Podcast! This special episode features Alfredo Torres, a 13-year Navy veteran and executive assistant at the U.S. Forest Service. Alfredo is well-known for his vibrant "Paisley Prince" persona and his impactful virtual community, Alfredo's Coffee House, where veterans come together to discuss transition challenges and important life topics.Alfredo shares his powerful journey from military service to becoming a leader in the veteran transition space. He unveils his innovative concept of a "transition credit sc...
2024-06-1134 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastEmpowering Veterans: Kimberly Pickens on Recovery, Advocacy, and Community ImpactIn this powerful episode of the VET S.O.S. podcast, Shawn Welsh and
guest co-host Keith Cassant sit down with Kimberly Pickens, an OEF/OIF
Air Force veteran and incoming member of the Nevada Air National Guard.
Kimberly opens up about her personal journey transitioning from military
service and how her experiences have fueled her passion for supporting
veterans in Northern Nevada.As the Outreach Specialist and
Veteran Liaison at New Dawn Treatment Centers, Kimberly plays a critical
role in helping veterans battling substance abuse, PTSD, and traumatic
brain injuries (TBI). She discusses how New Dawn partners...
2024-06-0429 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastEmpowering Veterans: David Tenenbaum on Heroes Network & Honor MediaIn this powerful episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Keith welcome
David Tenenbaum, an Air Force veteran, entrepreneur, and founder of
Honor Media and Heroes Network. David opens up about the challenges he
faced transitioning from military service to civilian life and how those
experiences fueled his passion for creating meaningful support systems
for veterans and their families.David introduces the Heroes
Network, a free professional networking platform designed exclusively
for veterans, military spouses, and Gold Star families. This innovative
platform connects users with volunteer advisors offering expert guidance
on education, career transitions, entrepreneurship, and...
2024-05-2830 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastEmpowering Veterans: Steve Janke's Semper Forward Mission to Support Military FamiliesIn this impactful episode of the VET S.O.S. podcast, host Shawn and
Keith engage in a compelling conversation with Marine veteran and
founder of Semper Forward Mission Wisconsin, Steve Janke. Steve opens up
about his unique transition from active military duty to managing his
family's dairy farm and eventually entering the world of politics and
government service. He sheds light on the obstacles service members face
when reintegrating into civilian life and stresses the critical
importance of networking and effectively communicating one’s value
proposition.Steve dives deep into how Semper Forward bridges the
gap for mi...
2024-05-1430 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastMastering Military to Civilian Transition: Annie Brock’s Leader Transition InstituteIn this episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn Welsh and Keith Cassant
welcome Annie Brock, President and CEO of the Leader Transition
Institute (LTI). Annie shares her inspiring journey from an enlisted
soldier to a medevac helicopter pilot and military spouse, and how her
personal challenges led her to create LTI—a life-changing program that
helps service members, veterans, and military spouses transition
successfully to civilian life.
💼 Inside This Episode:
- Annie's military career and transition experiences
- Challenges faced by military spouses in employment and integration
- Overview of LTI's free, four-day intensive program on personal growt...
2024-05-0731 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastBill Kieffer on Veteran Career Success & Mental HealthIn this insightful episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn Welsh and Keith
Cassant sit down with Bill Kieffer, an Army veteran with over 23 years
of professional HR experience and the President of Kieffer &
Associates Limited. Bill shares his deep knowledge and personal
experiences navigating the complex path from military service to a
successful civilian career.Bill introduces his latest book,
Veteran Career Journey: More Insights from the Employer Side of the
Desk, a follow-up to his first book, designed to provide veterans with
practical tools and strategies for not only transitioning but also
thriving in the...
2024-04-2330 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastTransforming Military Transitions & Empowering Veterans with Nila ThompsonIn this inspiring episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn Welsh and Keith
Cassant welcome Nila Thompson, Chief of Staff at Talent Ascend. Nila
shares her powerful and deeply personal journey as a military spouse
navigating her husband Bruce's transition out of the military. She
candidly discusses the emotional and practical challenges they faced,
highlighting the importance of honest communication, proactive
decision-making, and strategic financial planning—including how they
successfully became debt-free before retirement. Nila also reflects on
the challenges military children face when aging out of military
benefits and passionately advocates for more comprehensive support and
resources fo...
2024-04-0930 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastMaster Your Civilian Job Search: Veteran Resume & Career Tips with Lori NorrisIn this insightful episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn Welsh and Eric
Brew sit down with Lori Norris, the dynamic host of the Lessons Learned
for Vets podcast and a leading authority on veteran career transitions.
With nearly two decades of experience helping service members and
veterans successfully navigate the civilian workforce, Lori shares
invaluable strategies to help you thrive after military service.Lori
discusses her journey from a hiring manager in retail to becoming a
dedicated advocate for veterans, sharing how her volunteer work at Luke
Air Force Base in 2005 sparked her mission to teach...
2023-10-1036 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastBreaking the Stigma: Veteran Manny Vera's Journey to Mental Health Advocacy with Here TomorrowIn this powerful and heartfelt episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn Welsh
and Eric Brew engage in an in-depth conversation with Army veteran and
dedicated mental health advocate Manny Vera. Manny shares his inspiring
journey from serving as a Military Police officer to transitioning into
law enforcement and ultimately finding his calling as a military peer
recovery specialist at Here Tomorrow, a nonprofit based in Neptune
Beach, Florida.Manny bravely opens up about his personal battles
with mental health, including experiences with depression and substance
misuse, and sheds light on the stigma surrounding mental health in...
2023-10-0330 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastHow Veterans Can Launch a Successful Cybersecurity CareerIn this insightful episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Eric dive deep into the world of cybersecurity and how veterans can successfully transition into this high-demand field. Joining them are two industry leaders: Gunnar Kallstrom, a cyber team lead and former Army musician, and Keith Cassant, a veteran employment program manager at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA).🚀 Gunnar’s Journey:After serving 15 years in the Army, Gunnar faced uncertainty about his next step. Through the Army Transition Assistance Program, he discovered cybersecurity as a promising career path. Gunnar enrolled in a four-month online cyber...
2023-09-2634 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastHow Veterans Can Launch a Successful Cybersecurity CareerIn this insightful episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Eric dive deep
into the world of cybersecurity and how veterans can successfully
transition into this high-demand field. Joining them are two industry
leaders: Gunnar Kallstrom, a cyber team lead and former Army musician,
and Keith Cassant, a veteran employment program manager at the
Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA).🚀 Gunnar’s Journey:After
serving 15 years in the Army, Gunnar faced uncertainty about his next
step. Through the Army Transition Assistance Program, he discovered
cybersecurity as a promising career path. Gunnar enrolled in a
four-month onlin...
2023-09-2634 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastBreaking Barriers: Jim Zenner's Fight Against Veteran Homelessness & Mental Health ChallengesIn this powerful episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn Welsh and Mark Elder
sit down with Jim Zenner, the Director of Military and Veteran Affairs
for Los Angeles County. Jim shares his inspiring journey from serving in
the U.S. Army to becoming a leading advocate for veterans' mental
health and homelessness support. His firsthand experience of overcoming
adversity fuels his passion for creating impactful programs that support
veterans' reintegration into civilian life.Jim opens up about
his personal struggles after transitioning out of the military,
including experiencing homelessness, and how these challenges fueled his
passion...
2023-09-1940 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastEmpowering Veterans with Tech Skills & E-Waste Recycling with Mark Casper from Tech for TroopsIn this impactful episode of VET S.O.S., Shawn and Mark sit down with
Mark Casper, President and CEO of Tech for Troops, to explore how the
organization is transforming the lives of veterans through technology
and sustainability. Tech for Troops provides veterans and their families
with access to essential IT training and computer literacy programs,
helping them build valuable skills for the modern workforce. Beyond
education, Tech for Troops is leading the charge in responsible e-waste
recycling, having recycled over 800 tons of electronics—including 700+
tons in the past eight years—to prevent harmful waste from polluting our
envi...
2023-09-1434 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastPeter Cline on Boots to Books & Veteran Career SuccessIn this powerful episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn Welsh and Eric Brew
engage in an inspiring conversation with Peter Cline, an Army veteran
and the visionary founder of Boots to Books. Peter candidly shares his
personal journey transitioning from military service to civilian life
and how his struggles ignited the creation of Boots to Books, a
nonprofit dedicated to empowering veterans and their families through
education and career opportunities.Boots to Books has made a
profound impact, supporting over 4,000 veterans and providing $80,000 in
free educational resources. Peter outlines the organization’s diverse
and comprehensive programs, in...
2023-09-0533 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastUnlock Your VA Benefits: Dr. Paul Lawrence Reveals Essential Resources for VeteransIn this powerful and insightful episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, hosts
Shawn Welsh and Eric Brew sit down with Dr. Paul Lawrence, an esteemed
Army veteran and former Under Secretary of Benefits at the US Department
of Veteran Affairs. Dr. Lawrence shares his remarkable journey and the
pivotal role he played in improving veterans' access to their earned
benefits. His latest book, "Veteran Benefits for You," serves as a
comprehensive and easy-to-understand guide designed to help veterans and
their families navigate the complex VA benefits system.
Throughout the episode, Dr. Lawrence reflects on his impactful tenure,
...
2023-08-2931 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastUnlocking Career Success for Veterans: Hire Heroes, USA’s Expert GuidanceIn this episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Eric welcome Elena
Comperatore, Director of Client Service Delivery, and Romaine Byrd,
Georgia Program Manager at Hire Heroes USA. Discover how this impactful
organization supports veterans and military spouses through personalized
services like resume assistance, LinkedIn training, interview
preparation, and comprehensive job search strategies that never expire.
Elena shares her inspiring journey from construction to HR, highlighting
the pivotal role LinkedIn played in connecting her to Hire Heroes USA.
Romaine reflects on his transition from military service to civilian
life and how his personal experience fuels his passion...
2023-08-2229 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastNavigating Military to Civilian Careers with MILCRUITIn this episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Eric sit down with
Karleton Lawrence and Dara Lora, co-founders of MILCRUIT, an
organization dedicated to supporting veterans and military families in
their career transitions. Karl, a retired Marine and Director of Talent
Grow Military, and Dara, a retired Air Force member and Acquisition
Manager at Kinetics RPO, share their personal transition journeys and
how they launched MILCRUIT to bridge the gap between veterans and
meaningful employment opportunities.MILCRUIT connects
transitioning service members and military spouses directly with
recruiters and talent acquisition professionals, offering actionable
support and...
2023-08-1533 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastUSAF Veteran to Workplace Culture Expert | Aleha Ingle's Guide to Career Transition & LeadershipIn this compelling episode of VET S.O.S., we welcome Aleha Ingle, a
retired U.S. Air Force veteran with 21 years of service and the
visionary founder of Work Culture Works. Aleha shares her inspiring
transition story from military service to entrepreneurship during the
challenging COVID-19 era. Frustrated by the inadequacies of the
Transition Assistance Program (TAP), Aleha took matters into her own
hands, becoming a self-taught expert in navigating the civilian
workforce.Her firsthand experience with toxic work environments
in the corporate world fueled her passion for creating healthier, more
productive workplaces. This led to the...
2023-08-0829 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastMaster Your Career Transition: Personal Branding Tips with Jennifer BurksIn this insightful episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn Welsh and Eric
Brew welcome Jennifer Burks, a program analyst specializing in personal
branding and career marketing. As a military spouse and career
transitioner, Jennifer shares her inspiring journey of overcoming
challenges, leveraging personal networks, and building a successful
career.Jennifer recounts her pivotal moment of
resourcefulness—using Taco Bell sauce packets to create a family
meal—which sparked a viral LinkedIn post and launched her consulting
business. She discusses the balance between offering free and paid
services, the importance of recognizing one's value, and how self-care
and...
2023-08-0131 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastHow Med Tech Vets Helps Veterans Launch Successful Careers in Medical TechnologyIn this inspiring episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn Welsh and Eric Brew
welcome Patrice Sutherland, President and Chairman, and Amy Reiter,
Director of Operations at MedTechVets. Founded in 2014 by Mike Minogue
and Alex Gorsky, MedTechVets is a nonprofit organization dedicated to
helping military veterans transition into thriving careers in the
medical technology industry, including medical devices, life sciences,
and pharmaceuticals.Patrice and Amy share insights into
MedTechVets' impactful seven-week cohort program, which boasts a
remarkable 91% employment rate post-graduation. The program offers
personalized mentorship, resume building, interview preparation, and
networking opportunities, all designed to translate military...
2023-07-2531 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastMaster Your Military Transition: HKPO Veterans Academy & Skill Bridge SuccessIn this empowering episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn Welsh and Eric
Brew welcome Clay Anderson, a 20-year Navy veteran and advocate for
veteran transition success. Clay shares the incredible opportunities
offered by the HKPO Veterans Academy, a 501(c)(3) DOD Skill Bridge
Program providing high-value training in project management, Lean Six
Sigma, and leadership development.Discover how this flexible,
rolling-enrollment program—valued at nearly $22,000—delivers
personalized mentorship with Master Black Belts, hands-on industry
projects, and expert resume and LinkedIn optimization. Clay emphasizes
the importance of early transition preparation and calls for greater
awareness of this impactful prog...
2023-07-1830 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastMastering Veteran Career Transitions: Hope White’s Expert Guide to Federal Hiring & Mental HealthIn this inspiring episode of VET S.O.S., we welcome Hope White, an
accomplished entrepreneur and expert in the federal hiring process.
Raised in a military family, Hope's early experiences with military life
deeply influenced her mission to empower veterans in their transition
to civilian careers. Drawing from her diverse background in the Army,
federal government, and corporate America, Hope brings valuable insights
into the complexities of navigating post-military employment.As
the founder of Hopeful Speaking, Hope provides a comprehensive suite of
services, including career development strategies, federal resume
writing, interview coaching, and leadership training specifically
tailored...
2023-07-1241 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastMilitary to Civilian: Keith Cassant’s No-Nonsense Guide to Veteran SuccessIn this unfiltered and empowering episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn
Welsh and Eric Brew welcome Keith Cassant, a veteran with 22 years of
distinguished military service, to share his raw and honest story about
the difficulties he faced transitioning into civilian life. Now a
cybersecurity professional and dedicated mentor, Keith opens up about
his struggles, his turning points, and how mentorship helped him
overcome significant obstacles.Keith introduces his trademark
"Band Aid Ripper" mentorship style—delivering the hard truths upfront to
set clear and realistic expectations for veterans navigating their
transition. His tough-love approach is designed to...
2023-06-2828 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastMilitary to Civilian: Keith Cassant’s No-Nonsense Guide to Veteran SuccessIn this unfiltered and empowering episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn Welsh and Eric Brew welcome Keith Cassant, a veteran with 22 years of distinguished military service, to share his raw and honest story about the difficulties he faced transitioning into civilian life. Now a cybersecurity professional and dedicated mentor, Keith opens up about his struggles, his turning points, and how mentorship helped him overcome significant obstacles.Keith introduces his trademark "Band Aid Ripper" mentorship style—delivering the hard truths upfront to set clear and realistic expectations for veterans navigating their transition. His tough-love approach is designed to pr...
2023-06-2828 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastSoldier for Life: Lifelong Support for Veterans, Military Families & Transition SuccessIn this compelling episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn Welsh and Eric
Brew welcome Colonel David Grant and Master Sergeant Lorena Wilson to
discuss the vital work of the Soldier for Life (SFL) program. Their
conversation dives deep into how SFL empowers service members, veterans,
and military families by fostering long-term connections and providing
critical resources for a seamless transition into civilian life.🎯 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:🔹
SFL’s Mission: How Soldier for Life bridges the gap between active duty
and civilian life by engaging with organizations across the country.🔹
Key Programs: An...
2023-06-2126 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastMastering the Military-to-Civilian Transition: Reggie Gooden's Guide for VeteransIn this powerful episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn Welsh and new
co-host Eric Brew engage in an in-depth conversation with Reggie Gooden,
a retired Command Sergeant Major with an impressive 30-year military
career. Now serving as the Regional Director for Still Serving Veterans,
Reggie passionately discusses his transition journey and his mission to
support fellow veterans in navigating the often-challenging path to
civilian life.Reggie sheds light on the inconsistencies in
transition assistance programs across military bases and how Still
Serving Veterans is dedicated to filling those critical gaps. Learn how
this 17-year nonprofit organization...
2023-06-1430 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastVET S.O.S. (53) S2/E1 - Reggie GoodenReggie is a retired Command Sergeant Major with over 30 years of service in the Army. During his time in the service, Reggie and his wife started an bookstore. In 2022, they both decided to pursue their passions. Reggie’s passion is to help veterans which led him to Still Serving Veterans. Reggie now serves as the Regional Director for Still Serving Veterans.
2023-06-1330 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastVET S.O.S. 1-Year Anniversary 🎉 | New Co-Host Eric Brew, Veteran Career Tips & Future Plans!Welcome to a monumental episode of VET S.O.S. as we proudly celebrate
ONE YEAR of supporting veterans, service members, and military families
in their transition to civilian life! Hosts Shawn and Mark reflect on
the powerful insights shared by past guests and announce exciting
changes and future plans for the podcast.Joining us for this
special episode is Eric Brew from American Corporate Partners (ACP)—a
dedicated mentor and advocate for veterans. Eric shares his thoughts on
the importance of storytelling in the transition journey and why
veterans must give themselves permission to explore new career pa...
2023-05-3031 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastMaster Military Transition: LinkedIn Strategy, Mentorship & VA Claim Support with Matthew LangsethIn this powerful episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Mark welcome
Army veteran Matthew Langseth to discuss his 21 years of dedicated
military service and his inspiring mission to empower veterans and
military spouses in their transition to civilian life. Matthew candidly
shares the challenges he faced during his own transition, emphasizing
the shortcomings of traditional checklists and the need for proactive
planning.Matthew's transformative journey began with his
cautious exploration of LinkedIn, where he moved from simply consuming
content to actively engaging, networking, and ultimately creating
impactful posts. This evolution not only aided his personal...
2023-05-2432 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastEmpower Your Career: How the Veteran Email Program Helps Veterans Stand OutIn this milestone 50th episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Mark
celebrate a significant achievement by welcoming Brace McCoy, veteran
and founder of the Veteran Email Program. Brace dives deep into the
motivation and development of this groundbreaking initiative, designed
to empower veterans in their career transitions. The Veteran Email
Program offers personalized email addresses ending in .vet, allowing
veterans to proudly showcase their service in professional settings,
resumes, and networking opportunities.Brace shares his personal
journey from serving in the military to working in the financial defense
and consumer firearm markets, and how a...
2023-05-2331 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastFrom TBI & PTSD to Veteran Business Coach: Shane Hicks' Reboot VA Empowers Veteran EntrepreneursIn this deeply inspiring episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Mark sit
down with Shane Hicks, a West Point graduate, veteran, and the founder
of RebootVA. Shane courageously opens up about his struggles with
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
after his military service and how those experiences fueled his passion
to empower other veterans.Shane created RebootVA, a
comprehensive business coaching program that provides veterans and their
families with the tools, mentorship, and community support they need to
launch and sustain successful ventures. RebootVA offers specialized
guidance in marketing, finance, real...
2023-05-1037 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastHow Veterans Are Powering the EV Industry with Kimberly DinkinsIn this compelling episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Mark engage in
an insightful conversation with Kimberly Dinkins, a veteran with 14
years of active duty and over six years in the reserves. Now serving in
external affairs at SK Battery America, Kimberly is a passionate
advocate for veteran hiring and workforce integration. She shares her
inspiring journey from military service to corporate leadership and how
her role enables her to give back to the veteran community.Discover
how SK Battery America, a global leader in electric vehicle battery
manufacturing for automotive giants like Volkswagen and...
2023-05-0530 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastHow Meghan Wald and Canine Heroes for Heroes Are Transforming Veteran Lives with Service DogsJoin us for an inspiring and heartfelt episode of VET S.O.S. as hosts
Shawn and Mark sit down with Meghan Wald, a resilient breast cancer
survivor and devoted wife of a Marine. Meghan has transformed her
personal challenges into a mission to support veterans through the
K9Hereoes4Heroes organization. Her journey began when she trained her
German Shepherd, Fiona, as a support dog during her cancer treatment—an
experience that ignited her passion to expand K9Hereoes4Heroes to Kansas
City.
In this deeply moving conversation, Meghan opens up about the
organization's mission to provide fully tr...
2023-05-0531 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastTransforming Veteran Transitions with Holistic Stress Management by Trisha HoughtonWelcome to another transformative episode of VET S.O.S.! In Episode 46,
we are joined by Trisha Houghton, a military and executive life coach
dedicated to empowering veterans through holistic stress management and
transition support. Drawing from her own experience overcoming a
debilitating nervous system crash, Trisha now helps others reset their
nervous systems and reclaim their lives.🌟 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:-
Trisha’s Personal Journey: From navigating a nervous system crash to
becoming a life coach focused on helping veterans and executives alike.-
Holistic Stress Management Techniques: Practical tools such as
dia...
2023-05-0533 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastRevolutionizing Trauma Healing for Veterans: The Cortina Method on VET S.O.S.In this groundbreaking episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Mark
welcome Michael Cortina, a leading PTSD and trauma resolution expert, to
explore his revolutionary Cortina Method. This cutting-edge,
brain-based healing approach delivers life-changing results for trauma
sufferers, achieving an astounding 88-90% resolution rate—often in a
single session. Best of all, the method requires no reliving of past
traumas, making it a compassionate and effective alternative to
traditional therapies.During the conversation, Michael shares:
✔️ The Science Behind the Cortina Method: How it leverages neuroscience to create lasting, measurable changes in brain activity.✔️ Why Traditional Therapy Fa...
2023-04-2430 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastPreserving Memories & Empowering Veterans: Geoff Weber on Heirloom and Skill BridgeIn this insightful episode of VET S.O.S., Shawn and Mark welcome Geoff
Weber, a former US Navy intelligence officer turned entrepreneur, to
discuss his groundbreaking work with Heirloom, a tech startup dedicated
to preserving life's most precious moments.Geoff shares how
Heirloom digitizes old media—like photos, VHS tapes, and more—into
secure, cloud-based digital formats, offering the peace of mind that
your memories will last forever. Powered by the robust security of
Amazon Web Services, Heirloom ensures your treasured moments are always
accessible.As an advocate for veteran success, Geoff highlights
the DOD Skillbridge prog...
2023-04-2433 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastTransforming Veterans' Lives: Dr. Gordon Sumner & Service Dogs MissionIn this powerful and heartfelt episode of VET S.O.S., we welcome Dr.
Gordon Sumner, a retired U.S. Army colonel and the CEO of Veterans
Moving Forward. This extraordinary nonprofit organization is committed
to providing fully trained service and emotional support dogs to
veterans at no cost, offering hope, healing, and support to those who
served our nation.📌 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:- Dr.
Sumner’s Inspiring Journey: From his distinguished military career to
his passion for helping veterans, hear how Dr. Sumner’s leadership
drives the mission of Veterans Moving Forward.- The...
2023-04-2439 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastVeterans Guide to Business Acquisition: SBA Financing & Opportunities with Deb CurtisIn this insightful episode of VET S.O.S., Shawn and Mark welcome Deb
Curtis, founder of Small Business Finance Solutions LLC and a leading
expert in small business acquisition financing through the Small
Business Administration (SBA). With decades of experience in banking and
business lending, Deb has dedicated her career to helping individuals,
especially veterans, achieve their dreams of owning a business.Deb
highlights the immense potential for veterans to benefit from the
"silver tsunami" — the wave of baby boomer-owned businesses
transitioning to new ownership over the next five years, with a total
value exceeding $1 trillion. She ex...
2023-04-2431 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastFrom Navy to Vice President: David Trenholm’s Journey with Bank of AmericaIn this episode, we are joined by David Trenholm, a retired naval
aviator, community leader, and current Vice President at Bank of
America. David shares his remarkable journey from serving in the U.S.
Navy to excelling in the corporate world, offering valuable insights and
actionable advice for veterans navigating their own transitions.David’s
story is a testament to the power of mentorship, networking, and
leveraging military skills in new environments. Through his involvement
in veteran-focused programs and initiatives, David has become a beacon
of support and guidance for the veteran community.Key topics covered:✅ Bank...
2023-04-2431 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastTiffany Martschink on Veteran Resilience, Mental Health, and Finding Identity After Military ServiceIn this deeply moving episode of VET S.O.S., Shawn and Mark sit down
with Tiffany Martschink, a retired Army NCO, podcast host, and mental
health advocate, to discuss the unique challenges veterans face in
transitioning to civilian life. With 24 years of military service as a
religious affairs NCO recruiter and instructor, Tiffany knows firsthand
the struggle to redefine identity post-military.As the host of
the "Mettle of Honor" podcast, Tiffany amplifies the voices of service
members and veterans, sharing their stories of grit, perseverance, and
strength. Her mission? To provide healing for those telling their
stories...
2023-04-1930 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastEmpowering Veterans: Education Benefits, Networking, and Mentorship with Craig StarcherIn this insightful episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Mark welcome
Craig Starcher, a Marine and strategic business consultant, to discuss
his passion for supporting veterans through their transition to civilian
life. Craig shares his personal journey, from a career in the Marine
Corps to becoming a leader in veteran-focused organizations. He reflects
on how a simple sticky note led to a transformative corporate
fellowship, inspiring him to help others better prepare for life after
the military.Craig offers invaluable advice on leveraging
military education programs, such as tuition assistance, certifications,
and state-specific benefits like...
2023-04-1934 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastLinkedIn Networking, Career Growth & Faith-Based Support with Pete BlumIn this episode of VET S.O.S., we welcome Pete Blum, a Navy and Marine
veteran and a dedicated leader in the veteran community. With a wealth
of experience and a passion for service, Pete has made it his mission to
empower veterans and military families through career readiness,
networking, and faith-based support initiatives.Pete is a prominent figure in veteran advocacy, holding key roles that include:- President and COO of Phoenix Portfolio Partners – Leading efforts to create opportunities for veterans in business and beyond.-
Chairman of the Greater Tampa Bay Chapter of th...
2023-04-1933 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastTransforming Veteran Careers: Leslie Coffey on ACP’s Life-Changing Mentorship ProgramJoin us for an inspiring and informative episode with Leslie Coffey, the
Vice President of Military Engagement at American Corporate Partners
(ACP). Leslie brings years of experience and dedication to helping
veterans and military spouses navigate career transitions successfully.
In this episode, she dives into the life-changing impact of mentorship
and the incredible work ACP is doing to support the military community.ACP
offers a free, customized mentorship program that pairs veterans and
military spouses with professionals in their desired fields. With
personalized career guidance, ACP ensures its participants receive the
support they need to succeed. The program...
2023-04-1933 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastHow Operation New Uniform Transforms Veteran and Spouse CareersIn this episode of VET S.O.S., we’re honored to host Tracey Bradley,
Sr., a retired US Navy veteran with over 20 years of service, who now
dedicates his time to empowering veterans and military spouses through
the nonprofit sector. Tracey shares his personal transition journey, the
challenges he faced moving into the corporate world, and his passion
for helping others succeed.Tracey is a key leader at Operation
New Uniform (ONU), a nonprofit organization that equips veterans and
their spouses with the tools, resources, and confidence to secure
meaningful careers. ONU’s program leverages the Sandler sale...
2023-04-1936 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastUnlock Career Success: Tyrone Hewitt on Certifications, Transition & Act Now EducationJoin hosts Shawn and Mark as they sit down with Navy veteran Tyrone
Hewitt, a dedicated transition counselor and volunteer with Act Now
Education. With 20 years of military service under his belt, Tyrone
shares his inspiring journey of helping service members and veterans
navigate their transitions into civilian careers.In this
episode, Tyrone dives into the power of certifications and education in
unlocking better job opportunities. He shares an impactful story about a
veteran who saved $2,000 on a PMP certification by utilizing available
programs, showcasing the incredible resources available to service
members. Tyrone highlights how certifications not only...
2023-04-1021 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastHow Veterans Can Succeed in Higher Education: Resources, Mentorship, and Transition StrategiesIn this powerful episode of VET S.O.S., Shawn and Mark welcome Hira
Byrne, a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor with a mission to bridge the
gap between disability services and veteran services in higher
education. Hira brings her expertise and personal connection to the
veteran community, inspired by her grandfather’s service as a WWII POW,
to shine a spotlight on the unique challenges veterans face in academic
environments.Key Topics Discussed:✅ The importance of inter-department collaboration in higher education to support veterans holistically.✅
How veterans can access academic and mental health resources from
organizations like Servic...
2023-04-1027 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastEmpowering Military Spouses: Career Tips, Free Certifications, and Advocacy with Kasie ValentiIn this inspiring episode of VET S.O.S., we welcome Kasie Valenti, the
dynamic founder and CEO of Sigma Forces. As a first-generation college
graduate, Army veteran, and military spouse, Kasie brings a wealth of
experience and understanding to the challenges faced by military
spouses. She highlights issues like unemployment, underemployment, and
the additional hurdles of international assignments—offering practical
solutions for overcoming these obstacles.Kasie shares the
importance of strategic volunteering, which helps military spouses and
veterans gain relevant work experience and expand their professional
networks. She also emphasizes LinkedIn optimization as a critical tool
for st...
2023-04-1032 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastMark Reilly Unveils The Washington Tattoo: Music, Healing, and Veteran SupportIn this inspiring episode of VET S.O.S., we are joined by Mark Reilly, a
renowned musician, drummer, and CEO of The Washington Tattoo, to
explore the transformative power of music in creating community and
supporting veterans. Mark shares his personal connection to military
service, his grandfather's experiences in World War II, and how these
influences shaped his passion for using music as a tool for healing.
The Washington Tattoo, established in 2019, is on a mission to bring a
world-class music and arts festival to Washington, D.C., while providing
performing opportunities for veterans, fostering community outreach,
and...
2023-04-1038 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastEmpowering Veterans: Dr. Mariah Thomas on Navigating Transition & Emotional Wellness | The-Alpha ArcIn this episode of VET S.O.S., we are honored to host Dr. Moriah Thomas,
a Marine Corps veteran and expert in industrial and organizational
psychology, to delve into the challenges veterans face during their
transition from military to civilian life. Dr. Thomas shares insights
into her groundbreaking The-Alpha Arc program, a six-session, one-on-one
coaching initiative tailored to help veterans understand and manage the
complex emotions of transition, such as confusion, guilt, and anger.Dr.
Thomas's passion stems from her personal journey and her husband’s
struggles transitioning out of the military. Her unique approach equips
veterans wi...
2023-04-1031 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastEmpowering Women Veterans: Dr. Destinee Prete on We2AreVetsIn this powerful episode of VET S.O.S., we are joined by Dr. Destinee
Prete, a military veteran, industrial-organizational psychologist, and
the founder of We2AreVets, a nonprofit on a mission to honor, empower,
and recognize women veterans.Dr. Prete takes us on a journey
through her incredible transition from military service to civilian
life, earning her PhD, and creating a supportive community for women
veterans. She shares insights into the unique challenges women veterans
face, including workplace sexism, lack of inclusivity, and
self-identification barriers. Dr. Prete discusses how We2AreVets fosters
empowerment, collaboration, and recognition for...
2023-04-0324 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastMilitary Career Transition Made Simple: Insights from HR Expert Bill KiefferIn this compelling episode of VET S.O.S., Shawn and Mark dive deep into
the world of military career transitions with Bill Kieffer, an Army
veteran with over 23 years of experience as a senior HR executive and
the President of Kieffer and Associates. Bill’s expertise lies in
helping veterans navigate the often-challenging journey from military
service to civilian careers through career transition coaching,
leadership development, and strategic talent management.Bill
shares his personal story of transitioning from the Army to the
corporate world, highlighting the difficulties he faced and how those
experiences inspired him to dedicate hi...
2023-04-0327 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastTransforming Veteran Transitions: Dr. Vincent Soto on Resilience, Networking & Career Success🎙️ Join hosts Shawn Welsh and Mark Elder as they welcome Dr. Vincent
Soto, a career workforce strategist, master facilitator, and dedicated
advocate for veterans, military spouses, and first responders. In this
episode, Dr. Soto shares his expertise on transition assistance,
resilience-building, and career development.With years of
experience working with the Department of Labor’s Transition Assistance
Program, Dr. Soto provides valuable insights into programs like the
Off-Base Transition Training (OBTT) pilot initiative, which is helping
veterans and their families navigate life after service.🚀 Key Discussion Points:-
Off-Base Transition Training (OBTT): Learn about this innovative
program de...
2023-04-0340 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastTransforming Veteran Support: Soldiers' Angels Programs with Chris ChunIn this heartfelt episode of VET S.O.S., Shawn and Mark sit down with
Chris Chun, Vice President of Programs at Soldiers' Angels, to explore
how this extraordinary nonprofit organization is making a tangible
difference in the lives of veterans, service members, and their
families.Chris, a second-generation American and veteran, shares
his inspiring journey from serving in the military to dedicating his
life to helping others through extensive volunteer work and leadership
roles in nonprofit organizations. Now at Soldiers' Angels, Chris
oversees programs that provide crucial support to veterans, ensuring
they receive the care and assistance...
2023-04-0329 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastMaster Your Military Transition: Expert Tips from Brian Niswander on VET S.O.S.Welcome to another impactful episode of VET S.O.S.! This week, Shawn and
Mark are joined by Brian Niswander, a 27-year Air Force veteran and the
founder of Military Transition.org, an organization dedicated to using
data analytics to transform the way veterans transition from military to
civilian life.Brian dives into the creation of
Military-Transition.org and its mission to provide service members,
veterans, and military spouses with actionable, data-driven resources.
Through thousands of interviews, surveys, and real-world research, his
team has developed tools to make the transition process more accessible
and less overwhelming. Learn how...
2023-04-0326 min
Lessons Learned for VetsSeason 3 Episode 112: Sharing Hard Truths with Keith CassantSend us a textWhen Keith Cassant retired from the U.S. Army in 2019, his intention was to transition straight into a role in law enforcement. After learning he was physically ineligible, Keith had to find a new focus. Since retiring, Keith has held four different roles. His current position with Cybersecurity Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) is a great fit, and Keith shares the lessons he learned along the way. Like many veterans, Keith made the initial mistake of putting all his eggs in one basket. After being denied the opportunity to serve in law e...
2023-03-2945 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastFrom Navy Veteran to Networking Powerhouse: Will Gibson's VETS on T.A.P. SuccessIn this must-listen episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, Shawn and Mark
are joined by Will Gibson, a 22-year Navy veteran and the visionary
founder of VETS on T.A.P. Will shares the incredible journey of how he
built VETS on T.A.P., a thriving networking organization that has grown
to over 4,000 members and hosts an impressive 138 events annually.Inspired
by the Veterans Beer Club in San Diego, Will founded VETS on T.A.P. in
Jacksonville to address the unique needs of transitioning veterans. The
organization has since evolved into a community-focused powerhouse
...
2023-03-2727 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastEmpowering Veterans & Military Spouses: Expert Career Transition Advice with Delaina MorseIn this insightful episode of VET S.O.S., we welcome Delaina Morse, a
dedicated military spouse and veteran transition specialist who has
helped over 1,000 veterans take their next steps into the civilian
workforce. With over 15 years of experience as a military spouse and a
passion for empowering veterans, Delaina shares invaluable advice on how
to navigate the often-intimidating world of resumes, interviews, and
salary negotiations.
💡 Key Topics Covered in this Episode:
1️⃣ Resume Preparation & Interview Skills: Delaina outlines her
proven strategies to help veterans translate military skills into
civilian job descriptions and prepare for interviews with confidence.
2️⃣ Salary Negotiation Tips: Learn...
2023-03-2726 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastJeremy 'Monte' Montgomery on Transition, Networking & Mission 22Welcome to another inspiring episode of VET S.O.S., where we connect
veterans, military spouses, and their families with the resources and
insights needed for successful transitions. In this episode, we are
honored to host Jeremy "Monte" Montgomery, a 23-year Air Force veteran
and Director of Business Development at Fusion Cell, who shares his
powerful journey from military service to becoming a leader in veteran
and military spouse advocacy.Monte opens up about the challenges
veterans often face during their transitions, emphasizing the
importance of genuine networking, leveraging LinkedIn, and embracing
programs like SkillBridge. His mission is...
2023-03-2731 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastEmpowering Veterans: Cedars Sinai’s Commitment to Employment, Support, and Community ImpactDiscover how Cedars Sinai is leading the charge in veteran employment
and community impact in this episode of VET S.O.S. Jennifer Delatte, a
dedicated advocate for veterans, shares her impactful role in supporting
military personnel transitioning to civilian careers. Gain actionable
advice on interview preparation, including handling mock questions,
avoiding common mistakes, and presenting your skills effectively to land
the job you deserve.Learn about Cedars Sinai’s unique and
robust initiatives designed for veterans, such as Vet Connect, the
Veteran Employee Resource Group fostering connection and support among
employees. Discover the Veteran Companion Program, an in...
2023-03-2719 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastLinkedIn Tips, Career Strategies, and Transition Insights with Jennifer DelatteWelcome to Episode 21 of VET S.O.S.! In this insightful episode, Shawn
and Mark are joined by Jennifer Delatte, Veteran Program Administrator
at Cedars Sinai and a former IT Specialist in the US Army Reserve.
Jennifer shares her inspiring journey from overcoming personal
challenges to becoming a passionate advocate for veterans and
transitioning service members seeking employment.Jennifer dives
deep into the strategies veterans can use to achieve career success
after their military service. She highlights the importance of
leveraging LinkedIn, tailoring resumes to job descriptions, and
utilizing professional development tools like LinkedIn Learning.
Jennifer provides actionable...
2023-03-2732 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastNavy SEAL to Advocate: Tim Fedrick on Veteran Support and Transition ResourcesIn this impactful episode of the VET S.O.S. podcast, hosts Shawn and
Mark are joined by Tim Fedrick, a former Navy SEAL, veteran advocate,
and executive producer of the TV series "Veterans in Transition." With a
distinguished military career, including deployments to Ramadi,
Fallujah, Baghdad, Haditha, and Al Asad, Tim brings a wealth of
experience and insight into the unique challenges veterans face when
transitioning to civilian life.Tim candidly shares his personal
journey, emphasizing the importance of having a sufficient “runway” to
prepare for transition and tailoring support to individual needs. From
navigating VA systems to f...
2023-03-2033 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastEmpowering Retired Soldiers: Soldier for Life Mindset, COLA Insights, and Community EngagementIn this engaging episode of VET S.O.S., we are joined once again by Mark
Overberg, Director of Army Retirement Services, for a deep dive into
the critical resources and strategies that support soldiers
transitioning from military service to retirement. Mark highlights how
retired soldiers continue to play a vital role in the Army's mission,
embodying the Soldier for Life mindset to "hire and inspire" in their
communities and beyond.Key Discussion Points:- Preparing for
Retirement: Mark explains the role of Retirement Services Officers
stationed at installations, National Guard headquarters, and reserve
readiness divisions to...
2023-03-2031 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastMastering Army Retirement: Insights from Mark Overberg on Planning, Policies, & Financial ToolsIn this episode of VET S.O.S., Shawn and Mark sit down with Mark
Overberg, Director of Army Retirement Services, to discuss everything
you need to know about planning for military retirement. With over 30
years of military experience, Mark provides valuable insights into
retirement planning timelines, key policy changes, and the financial
tools available to soldiers.Highlights:- Retirement
Statistics: Only 17% of Army personnel retire—10% of enlisted and 30% of
officers. Learn why starting early is crucial for this small percentage
who retire each year.- Planning Timeline: Understand the updated
guidance to begin retirement planning 36 mo...
2023-03-2026 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastFrom Marine to Mentor: How Eric Brew and ACP Transform Veteran TransitionsThis episode dives deep into the importance of mentorship in a veteran’s
journey to civilian life. We’re joined by Eric Brew, Manager of
Military Engagement at American Corporate Partners (ACP), who shares his
inspiring story of resilience, growth, and the transformative power of
community.Eric reflects on his transition from the Marine Corps,
which he joined in 1996, to the Army, his post-9/11 service, and the
life-altering lessons he learned as he adjusted to civilian life. He
discusses the often-overlooked challenges of reintegration, from
identity struggles to building a new sense of purpose.In this episode, we e...
2023-03-2031 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastUnderstanding PTSD and Trauma: Expert Insights for Veterans and First RespondersIn this powerful episode, Joelle Rabow Maletis, a licensed Marriage and
Family Therapist and PTSD expert, shares her expertise on supporting
veterans, first responders, and their families through the challenges of
trauma and transition. With a clinical PhD and years of experience,
Joelle brings both professional insights and personal experience with
PTSD to the conversation.🧠 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:- Understanding PTSD: The critical difference between post-traumatic stress and PTSD, and why it matters.- The Role of Micro-Traumas: How small, accumulated traumatic experiences can impact mental health over time.- Transition Chall...
2023-03-2045 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastEmpowering Veterans & Military Spouses: Career Tips, Networking, Certifications w/ Kimberly HesslerIn this insightful episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Mark sit down
with Kimberly Hessler, a dedicated Training Manager with over 30 years
of experience supporting the military and veteran community. Kimberly is
a military spouse, career coach, and founder of the First Family
Support Center in Colorado Springs, where she facilitated the Transition
Assistance Program (TAP) for 20 years. Her mission is to help veterans
and military spouses overcome barriers to career success, navigate
transitions, and build strong professional networks.🔥 Key Topics Covered in the Episode:✅ Challenges Facing Military Spouses:Kimberly
addresses the struggles milit...
2023-03-1346 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastInside Upstate Warrior Solution’s Mission and Greenville Resource CenterIn this powerful episode, we sit down with Charlie Hall, a West Point
graduate, former Marine, and the visionary leader behind Upstate Warrior
Solution (UWS). With a passion for community engagement and veteran
advocacy, Charlie shares his transition journey from active duty to
heading a nonprofit that makes a real difference in the lives of
veterans across South Carolina.Join us as we explore:✅
Charlie’s Transition Journey: Insights into his military career,
experience with the Wounded Warrior regiment, and the challenges of
adapting to civilian life.✅ Upstate Warrior Solution’s Mission:
Serving veterans in a 10-county...
2023-03-1332 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastBruce Thompson on Transition Success, Networking, and Veterans AscendIn this impactful episode, we’re honored to host Bruce Thompson, a
retired Marine Corps veteran with an unwavering commitment to supporting
transitioning service members, veterans, and military spouses. With
decades of experience and a relentless drive to help others, Bruce sheds
light on the critical steps, tools, and resources needed to succeed in
life after military service.🌟 Key Topics Covered:-
Mentorship Through Veterati: Bruce shares his incredible journey of
dedicating over 900 hours to mentoring veterans during the COVID-19
pandemic, conducting up to 10 calls a day to provide guidance and
support. Learn how Veterati connects mentors and m...
2023-03-1338 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastUnlocking Veteran Potential: Matt Wood on Transition Challenges & Corporate SuccessIn this episode of VET S.O.S., we are joined by Matt Wood, founder of
Suiting Green Consulting, to explore the critical issues surrounding
veterans' transition to civilian careers. Drawing from his own journey
from military service to a corporate role at Disney—and ultimately to
founding his own consulting firm—Matt offers invaluable insights on
bridging the gap between military skills and corporate needs.📌 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✅
The Veteran-Corporate Knowledge Gap: Why companies often misunderstand
the skills veterans bring and how to address these misconceptions.✅
The Value of Transferable Skills: How leadershi...
2023-03-1325 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastTransform Your Job Search with Networking | Trevor Houston of Who Ya Know Show on VET S.O.S.In this exciting episode of VET S.O.S., we sit down with Trevor Houston,
host of the Who Ya Know job networking show, to explore how networking
can transform your career journey. Trevor shares his inspiring story of
transitioning from the auto industry to financial services and how a
pivotal networking event led him to help job seekers create meaningful
connections and achieve success.Trevor’s Who Ya Know network and
summit have empowered countless job seekers by focusing on personal
branding, human interaction, and networking strategies. He emphasizes
that job seekers need to stop sending resumes in...
2023-03-1351 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastEmpowering Women Veterans: Navigating Military Transition with Marina RabinekIn this inspiring episode of VET S.O.S., we are honored to host Marina
Rabinek, a trailblazer for women veterans and founder of the Military
Women's Collective. With 24 years of service in the US Navy, Marina
shares her personal journey of transitioning to civilian life during the
COVID-19 pandemic and how it sparked her passion for helping other
women veterans thrive beyond the military.Marina sheds light on
the unique challenges women face in the transition process, including
overcoming self-doubt, finding supportive networks, and navigating
male-dominated spaces. She addresses the confidence gap women often
experience when applying...
2023-03-0630 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastMaximize Your VA Benefits: Expert Advice from Veteran Advocate Jane BabcockIn this enlightening episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Mark sit
down with Jane Babcock, a highly experienced veteran advocate with over
two decades of dedication to helping veterans and military members
navigate the complexities of VA benefits. Jane shares invaluable
insights and actionable advice to ensure veterans maximize the benefits
they have earned through their service.Key Topics Covered:The Role of Accredited Veteran Service Officers (VSOs):Jane
emphasizes the importance of working with accredited VSOs when applying
for VA benefits. She warns about the risks of unaccredited services,
which can be...
2023-03-0629 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastHow Vets2Industry Empowers 75,000+ Veterans with Free Transition ResourcesIn this compelling episode of VET S.O.S., we sit down with Brian
Arrington, a retired Air Force veteran who turned his frustration with
the lack of transition resources into a game-changing organization:
Vets2Industry. Brian's journey from discovering LinkedIn and the
Veterans Mentor Network to founding an organization that serves nearly
75,000 members is a testament to the power of determination and
community.💡 Key Topics Covered- The Birth of Vets2Industry:
How Brian's realization of a critical knowledge gap during his
transition inspired him to build a centralized resource hub with over
1,000 free resources, despite sta...
2023-03-0631 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastK9Heroes4Heroes: Transforming Veterans' Lives with Service DogsIn this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Joe Gionti, founder of
K9Heroes4Heroes, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to
changing the lives of veterans and first responders by providing
expertly trained service dogs. Whether it’s helping with PTSD, traumatic
brain injuries (TBI), or other service-related disabilities,
K9Heroes4Heroes is making a profound impact through compassionate care
and tailored support.Joe shares his personal journey, including
his deep respect for the military and first responder communities, and
how his family's military background inspired him to take action. He
dives into the meticulous process of training an...
2023-03-0629 min
VET S.O.S. PodcastMastering Military to Civilian Transition: Networking, ATS Tips, and Career StrategiesJoin Shawn Welsh and Mark Elder on this insightful episode of the VET
S.O.S. Show as they dive into the essential strategies and resources for
a successful transition from military to civilian life. Gain expert
advice on navigating the complexities of the current labor market,
building a standout LinkedIn profile, and overcoming challenges with
Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Discover actionable tips for effective
networking, personalized follow-ups using video tools like BombBomb,
and the importance of continuous learning in your career journey.This
episode features Shawn sharing his personal experiences of
rediscovering individuality and targeting networking efforts...
2023-03-0645 min