🎙️ VET S.O.S. Podcast: Matt Watkins & Operation Headshot In this episode, we talk with Matt Watkins, Marine veteran and founder of Operation Headshot, about his transition from active duty, career setbacks, and how he is now empowering veterans and military spouses through professional branding, headshots, and networking. Key Takeaways: ✅ The emoti…

🎙️ VET S.O.S. Podcast – Featuring Gavin Naples, Tunnels to Towers Foundation 🎙️ In this episode, we’re joined by Gavin Naples, Vice President for Homeless Veteran Programs at the Tunnels to Towers Foundation, to discuss their groundbreaking work in permanent supportive housing, veterans' villages, and national case management. Since 2023, the found…

Welcome to another powerful episode of VET S.O.S.! Today, we sit down with Jonathan Sheridan, a former EOD tech in the U.S. Air Force and the host of the Normalized PTSD podcast. Jonathan shares his deeply personal journey with PTSD, mental health struggles, and the coping mechanisms that have helped him reclaim his life. From his difficult transit…

Welcome to another insightful episode of VET S.O.S., brought to you by the Who You Know Network and a proud member of the Parade Deck Community! 🎙️ Today, we’re sitting down with Chief Master Sergeant (Ret.) Jason A. David, a veteran advocate who is passionate about helping service members successfully transition to civilian life. He shares invalua…

Welcome to another inspiring episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Diane Hight, founder of Forever Young Veterans, a nonprofit dedicated to ending the silent suffering of military veterans aged 65 and older. Through her organization, Diane and her team work tirelessly to grant unfulfilled dreams for aging veterans, ta…

In this powerful episode of #VETSOS, we sit down with Michael G. Harris, the International President of Mu Beta Phi Military Fraternity, Inc. Michael shares his journey from military service to veteran advocacy and how Mu Beta Phi is making a real impact in the veteran community. From fighting veteran homelessness to providing mentorship programs f…

Join us for another impactful episode of #VETSOS, where we sit down with JR, founder of the True Top 1% Foundation. JR shares his incredible journey from a career in sales and behavioral science to pioneering art therapy programs for veterans. His foundation is dedicated to supporting military veterans through creative expression, helping them heal…

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, we’re honored to sit down with Patriotic Kenny (Kenny Jary), a Navy veteran whose story exemplifies resilience, community, and a steadfast commitment to helping others. Kenny shares his remarkable journey, from serving aboard the USS Okinawa during the Cuban Missile Crisis to his tr…

In 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 exper…

Transitioning from military service to civilian life can feel like navigating uncharted waters. In this powerful episode of VET S.O.S., we’re joined by Mike Schindler, a U.S. Navy veteran, award-winning author, and the founder and CEO of Operation Military Family Cares. Mike shares his incredible story of resilience, growth, and his mission to help…

In this powerful and motivational episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, we’re joined by JJ Hardy, a highly accomplished leadership coach, veteran advocate, and founder of Victory Leadership Coaching. With nearly two decades of military experience, JJ has dedicated his post-service life to helping veterans and civilians alike build resilience, develop …

In this compelling episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, we are joined by Stephen Hudson, a Navy veteran and the visionary founder and CEO of AI Ready Veteran, to discuss his revolutionary AI platform designed to ease the military-to-civilian transition. Drawing from his own experiences as a 20-year Navy veteran and successful entrepreneur, Stephen ta…

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, we sit down with Nick Padlo, a decorated combat veteran, West Point graduate, and successful entrepreneur, who has turned his own struggles into a mission to help others. As the CEO of Sophros Recovery, Nick leads an award-winning addiction treatment center that is changing lives by…

In this episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, we’re thrilled to spotlight the transformative work being done at the Coffee Bunker, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting veterans, military professionals, and their families. Donna Rogers, a retired career tech counselor with over 32 years of experience, and Robby Hedrick, a dual-service veter…

In this heartfelt and insightful episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, we welcome Christina Etchberger, founder and CEO of It's a Military Life, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting military families, spouses, and veterans. Christina’s inspiring journey began as a military spouse and educator, and her determination to make a difference has…

🎙️ VET S.O.S. Podcast - Season 5 Premiere! 🎙️Welcome to the highly anticipated first episode of Season 5 of the VET S.O.S. Podcast! We're thrilled to kick off the new year with a special guest who embodies the spirit of service and innovation—Susan L. Combs, founder of Pancakes for Roger Inc.Susan shares the deeply personal and inspiring story of h…

In this inspiring episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, we welcome Robert Pangaro, a retired Army veteran with a remarkable track record of service, advocacy, and leadership in the veteran community. Rob currently serves as a veteran outreach lead at Guidehouse, a global consulting firm, where he champions innovative programs and support systems desig…

In this deeply moving episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, we welcome Mary Millsaps and Zeke Vanderpool, the dynamic duo behind Operation Angel Wing (OPAW). Their organization has been a lifeline for veterans, first responders, and their families, offering innovative trauma-informed care and post-traumatic growth strategies that have changed countles…

🎙️ VET S.O.S. Podcast: Special Guest Wayne Soares 🎙️ In this episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, we’re thrilled to welcome the multi-talented Wayne Soares—actor, entertainer, syndicated columnist, and tireless advocate for veterans. With a career spanning broadcasting, comedy, and heartfelt storytelling, Wayne is on a mission to uplift and honor the…

Welcome to another powerful episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast! 🎙️ In this episode, we’re honored to speak with Joseph Zolper, Manager of Veteran Outreach and Networking for the Road Home Program at Rush University Medical Center. Joseph shares his journey from serving as an Army Infantry Officer to finding his purpose in helping veterans and their …

🎙️ Welcome to the VET S.O.S. Podcast! Today, we’re diving into an inspiring conversation with Bob Thomas, President and COO of Operation Homefront. Join us as we explore how this incredible organization is transforming the lives of veterans and their families through innovative programs and unwavering support. After a distinguished 31-year career i…

In 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 aff…

In 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 uniqu…

🎙️ 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 he…

In 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, les…

In this powerful episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, we’re honored to host John Foti, CEO of Operation Song, an extraordinary nonprofit transforming the lives of veterans, active-duty military, and their families through the art of songwriting. Discover how this Nashville-based organization pairs veterans with professional songwriters—including Gram…

In 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…

In 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 t…

In this deeply moving episode, we meet Dr. Steven Crane, a Marine Corps veteran whose transformative journey from homelessness to becoming a thriving entrepreneur is nothing short of inspiring. As the co-founder of the Veteran Roadmap, Dr. Crane has dedicated his life to empowering veterans, helping secure over $3.8 billion in benefits and mentorin…

Join us for an emotional and inspiring episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast as we sit down with Mike Ware, a retired Air Force fighter pilot, airline captain, author, and motivational speaker, who has dedicated his post-military life to supporting veterans in hospice and senior living facilities through Veterans Last Patrol. Mike shares the powerful m…

In this powerful episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, we sit down with Beau Higgins, a retired Marine Corps officer and current Vice President of Talent Acquisition at Arcadia Group. Beau takes us through his transition from a 25-year career in the Marine Corps to corporate leadership, including his impactful tenure at Amazon and his groundbreaking w…

In 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 …

In this deeply moving episode of VET S.O.S., we welcome Jeremy Stalnecker, CEO of the Mighty Oaks Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping military veterans and their families heal from combat-related trauma, including PTSD. Jeremy, a Marine Corps veteran who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and earned the Navy Commendation Medal …

In this powerful episode of VET S.O.S., we sit down with Angel Alvarez, a veteran coach, mentor, and founder of Soldier on a Mission, to discuss the essential tools and mindset veterans need to transition successfully to civilian life.Angel shares his incredible journey, including 21 years of service in the Army and 22 years in the U.S. Postal Serv…

In this insightful episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, we are honored to be joined by Jack Tilley, the 12th Sergeant Major of the Army. After an illustrious 36-year military career, Jack continues to serve veterans through his dedicated work with organizations like the American Freedom Foundation and his own podcast, "Your Next Mission."Jack sheds l…

🌟 Navigating Military-to-Civilian Career Transitions with Cheryl Cross 🌟 In this engaging episode of VET S.O.S., Cheryl Cross, an accomplished HR professional and Workforce Development Councilwoman in Hawaii, joins us to share her expertise and passion for supporting veterans and military spouses through the often-challenging transition to civilian…

In this powerful episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, we welcome Michael Hall, a Navy Chief Petty Officer with 19 years of service and the visionary behind Hold the Reins. This Virginia-based organization uses equine therapy to support military personnel, veterans, and their families as they navigate the unique challenges of service life and transiti…

In this episode, we welcome Michael Anthony, the Executive Director of Gratitude America, as he shares the powerful ways his organization is making a difference in the lives of veterans and their families. Michael’s journey from a Publix executive to nonprofit leader reflects his deep dedication to service and his passion for fostering post-traumat…

In this powerful episode of VET S.O.S., we sit down with Jeremy Wahlberg, a retired military veteran with 27 years of service and the founder of Our Heroes Tour, a nonprofit dedicated to providing healing, joy, and community for military personnel, first responders, and their families. Jeremy opens up about his challenging transition from military …

In this powerful episode, we explore the transformative work of Michael Cortina, a trauma resolution expert and founder of the revolutionary Cortina Method. Designed to heal trauma without forcing individuals to relive their pain, this neuroscience-based approach has a 90% success rate and can often resolve trauma in just one session. Michael’s inn…

In this inspiring episode, we welcome Reggie Mills, a retired Navy Master Chief Petty Officer and current Senior Director of Veteran Services at The COMMIT Foundation. Reggie takes us on a deeply personal journey, detailing his challenging transition from military service to civilian life—a period he candidly describes as a “dumpster fire.” From gr…

In 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 i…

Welcome 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 challen…

In this powerful and heartfelt episode of VET S.O.S., Shawn Welsh welcomes Eric Brew, who now serves as the Georgia Director for Warriors Set Free. Eric opens up about his transformative journey from co-host to fully dedicating himself to this life-changing ministry. Warriors Set Free is committed to helping veterans, active duty personnel, and fir…

Join 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 virtua…

In 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 suppor…

In 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 syste…

In this episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, Navy veteran and intelligence professional Marisol Maloney shares her inspiring journey from military service to launching her own consulting business, Secret Squirrel Consulting. Marisol dives deep into the challenges and strategies of transitioning from the military, emphasizing the importance of tailori…

In 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 gov…

In 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 se…