VET S.O.S. is a military transition focused organization dedicated to helping service members, veterans, and military families navigate transition and thrive in civilian life. Through four targeted shows, we deliver resources, insights, and inspiration: Military Transition Resources Show shares tools and programs for a smoother transition; Veteran Entrepreneurial Spotlight features veteran business journeys; Veteran Educational Resources Spotlight highlights learning opportunities; and The S ...
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Shawn Welsh Keith Cassant Eric Brew Mark Elder Podcasts

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Ryan Woodruff: Healing Through Service, Sobriety, and Service Dogs
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33:07In this VET S.O.S. Transition Podcast episode, we welcome Ryan Woodruff, CEO of Clear Path for Veterans, for a compelling conversation on post-military purpose and recovery. Ryan opens up about his challenging transition from Marine infantryman to civilian, his battle with alcoholism, and the profound transformation he experienced through service d…
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VERS - Maritime Careers for Veterans: From Service to Success
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19:36On this episode of the VET S.O.S. Veteran Educational Resources Spotlight, Dr. Hira speaks with Edward Lewis, Vice President of Operations at the Maritime Institute and retired U.S. Coast Guard Master Chief. Edward explains how veterans with maritime backgrounds can move directly into well-paying civilian roles without starting over—thanks to gap t…
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Feeding Veterans with Dignity: Farm2Veteran’s Mission
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30:39On 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 power…
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VES - Penn State’s Veteran Career Support Blueprint
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17:52Mary Fisk, Marine Corps veteran and Student Veteran Career Counselor at Penn State University, joins us to talk about proactive veteran career support and how higher education can be a powerful anchor in the military-to-civilian transition. Mary shares how Penn State offers one-on-one advising, career fairs, lunch & learns, and hybrid-access worksh…
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Resilient Veteran Advocacy at Empath Health
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30:06In this powerful episode of the VET S.O.S. Military Transition Podcast, we speak with Ashley Sard, an Air Force veteran and Community Partnership Specialist at Empath Health. Ashley shares her deeply personal military transition story, from medical retirement and career uncertainty to championing hospice and palliative care for veterans in Florida.…
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AI Tools Transforming the Military Job Search
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33:41Christian Echeverri, Navy veteran and outreach lead at Best Military Resume and Hire Valor, joins the VET S.O.S. Podcast to share how cutting-edge AI is helping veterans bridge the gap between military service and civilian employment. He dives into the challenges of rediscovering identity after retirement, adjusting post-COVID, and how his journey …
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Veteran Resilience Training: A Path to Purpose After Military Service
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30:31Marine Corps veteran and resiliency coach Garret Biss joins us on the VET S.O.S. podcast to share his journey through anxiety, addiction, and identity loss—and how those experiences led to the creation of Valiant Path, a revolutionary program in Veteran Resilience Training. Garret explains how most veterans lose more than just a job when they leave…
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Security Clearance Job Search: How ClearanceJobs Helps Veterans Succeed
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30:38In 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 militar…
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Veteran Workforce Development in Action: Operation Lifeline
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35:23Retired 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 & Kei…
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Healing PTSD with Music: Guitars for Vets in Action
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33:39In this inspiring episode of the Military Transition Resources Show, we sit down with Brian Cain, Director of Development at Guitars for Vets, a nonprofit putting guitars—and hope—into the hands of America’s veterans. Brian opens up about his personal battle with PTSD and brain injury following service in the Marine Corps and law enforcement. He sh…
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Leading with Grit: Shannon Polson’s Veteran Insight
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32:50This week on the VET S.O.S. Podcast, we speak with Shannon Huffman Polson—veteran Apache pilot, leadership expert, and founder of The Grit Institute. Shannon opens up about her military service, her unexpected pivot into corporate life, and the mindset and values that helped her lead with purpose through it all. Shannon introduces us to her powerfu…
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Empowering Military Transitions: Peter Cline on Boots to Books & MilMentor
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32:24In this dynamic episode of the VET S.O.S., we're joined by returning guest Peter Cline, founder of Boots to Books and co-founder of the new MilMentor platform. Peter shares: His authentic and humbling military transition story. How MilMentor is filling the void left by Veterati. The importance of fast feedback and one-on-one calls for career clarit…
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T-Mobile's Veteran Support Revolution with Lacey Craig
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29:14Lacey Craig of T-Mobile joins VET S.O.S. to spotlight how the company is leading the way in veteran hiring, retention, and military family support. As Senior Program Manager for Military and Partnership Recruiting, Lacey discusses the importance of long-term success for veterans and military spouses in the civilian workforce. You’ll hear about T-Mo…
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From Sergeant Major to CEO: Tony Grinston on Leading Army Emergency Relief
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29:44Join us for a powerful and inspiring conversation with Tony Grinston, the 16th Sergeant Major of the Army and current CEO of Army Emergency Relief (AER). In this VET S.O.S. episode, Tony talks about his transition from military leadership to nonprofit CEO, shares valuable advice for separating service members, and details the many ways AER supports…
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Heroes to Heroes: Saving Veterans Through Faith, Healing, and Moral Injury Recovery
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26:11Michael Haltman, Chairman of the Heroes to Heroes Foundation, joins VET S.O.S. to share how their powerful peer-driven and faith-based program helps combat veterans overcome moral injury and suicidal ideation. From intensive one-year coaching to deeply spiritual journeys to Israel, the Heroes to Heroes Foundation delivers a proven path to healing a…
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Mission Transition with Matthew Louis: A Tactical Guide for Veterans and Employers
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26:38Welcome to the VET S.O.S. Podcast! In this episode, Shawn and Dr. Hira talk with Matthew Louis, acclaimed author of Mission Transition and Hiring Veterans, and a leading voice in the military transition space. Matt discusses his own journey from the Army to the corporate world, how he’s helping bridge the civil-military divide, and why employment i…
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Empowering Military Transitions: Act Now Education & MillMentor with Jai Salters
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26:12Join the VET S.O.S. Podcast for a high-impact conversation with Jai Salters, Navy veteran and founder of Act Now Education, MilMentor, and Service to Success. With over 77,000 served, Jai and his team are redefining what veteran and spouse support looks like—offering free certifications, job prep programs, tailored mentorship, and real hiring oppor…
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Three Years of VET S.O.S. with Dr. Vincent Soto: Dressing for Success & Transforming Transitions
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32:36Three Years Strong! Dr. Vincent Soto on Transition, Transformation & Dressing for Success We’re celebrating three years of VET S.O.S. with a returning guest and key figure in our journey — Dr. Vincent Soto! From his early days on Season 1 to now leading two powerful organizations — Navigating Solutions and Transition2Transformation — Dr. Soto embod…
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🎖️ Operation Protect Veterans: Fighting Scams Against Veterans with Inspector Carroll Harris
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31:21This week on the VET S.O.S. podcast, we bring you an essential conversation that every veteran and their family needs to hear. Our guest is Inspector Carroll Harris, a 33-year government service professional, Marine Corps veteran, and national advocate for the Operation Protect Veterans campaign through the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Scams tar…
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From TEDx to NASA: John Bates on Mastering Communication for Military Transition Success
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33:55🎧 Ready to amplify your voice and lead with impact? This episode of the VET S.O.S. podcast is a masterclass in communication training. Join us as we welcome John Bates, founder of Executive Speaking Success and communication coach to organizations like NASA, Navy EOD, and Google. John’s mission is to empower veterans, transitioning service members,…
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Healing Invisible Wounds: UF Health’s Leon Haley Brain Wellness Program for Veterans & First Responders
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28:52What happens when a veteran survives multiple traumatic brain injuries, experiences daily cognitive and emotional symptoms, and then finds a program that changes everything? In this deeply inspiring episode of VET S.O.S., we welcome Steve Papas, U.S. Navy veteran and Executive Director of the Leon Haley Brain Wellness Program at UF Health Jacksonvi…
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Lead With Purpose: Veteran Transition, Leadership & Legacy with Algrish Williams
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30:38In this special 150th episode of the VET S.O.S. podcast, we’re honored to welcome Algrish Williams, retired Command Sergeant Major, author, and CEO of Williams Leadership Consulting. Algrish shares his powerful transition story—balancing command responsibilities with preparation for civilian life—and how he leveraged intentional networking and lead…
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From Combat to Podcasting: Scott DeLuzio’s Mission to Support Veterans
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33:34🎙 New Episode of VET S.O.S. Podcast! 🎙 Scott DeLuzio – Army veteran, host of Drive On Podcast, author of Surviving Son, and advocate for veteran mental health. In this powerful episode, Scott shares his unique transition story, how he coped with losing his brother in combat, and how he turned his struggles into a platform for veterans to find hope …
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Veteran Transition, Mentorship, and Leadership with Jeffrey Lodick
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33:28In this episode of VET S.O.S., we sit down with Jeffrey Lodick, a retired Army Master Sergeant, veteran advocate, and leadership expert. Jeffrey has dedicated his post-military career to helping transitioning service members, supporting organizations like FourBlock, and mentoring countless veterans—including our host! What You’ll Learn in This Epis…
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Healing Through Horses: Equine Therapy for Veterans with Katie Fallon
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31:19🎙 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 …
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Bridging the Gap: How Defenders Gateway Supports Veterans & First Responders
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26:02🎙️ Bridging the Gap: How Defenders Gateway is Connecting Veterans & First Responders to Critical Resources In this episode of VET S.O.S., we welcome Cheri Otzenberger, Director of Member Relations at Defender's Gateway. She shares how this innovative community-driven platform is helping military service members, veterans, and first responders navig…
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QRF Up: The Lifesaving App for Veterans & First Responders | VET S.O.S. Podcast
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27:37🎙️ VET S.O.S. Podcast – Featuring Kayla Milan from QRF Up In this episode, we highlight QRF Up, a game-changing nonprofit tackling veteran and first responder suicide with a mobile crisis response app. With the simple push of a big red button, veterans and first responders in crisis get instant support, connecting to a licensed therapist and, if ne…
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From Marine to Mission: Matt Watkins' Operation Headshot & Veteran Success Strategies
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32:08🎙️ 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…
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Eradicating Veteran Homelessness: Tunnels to Towers’ Mission w/ Gavin Naples
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27:46🎙️ 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…
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Breaking the PTSD Stigma – Jonathan Sheridan on Mental Health, Resilience & Recovery
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29:51Welcome 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…
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Unlocking VA Benefits & Military Transition Success | Networking, VR&E & More
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32:10Welcome 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…
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Honoring WWII Heroes: Forever Young Veterans’ Mission to Heal & Remember
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21:29Welcome 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…
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Mu Beta Phi: Ending Veteran Homelessness & Building Military Brotherhood
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30:52In 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…
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Healing Veterans Through Art Therapy | True Top 1% Foundation | Mental Health & PTS Recovery
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30:00Join 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…
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Patriotic Kenny's Mission: Supporting Veterans with Mobility Scooters & Fighting Isolation
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32:23In 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…
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Empowering Veteran Transitions: Abigail G. Manning on Purple Threads and Authentic Health
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30:03In 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…
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Unlocking Purpose After Military Service: Mike Schindler on Transition, Mission, and Identity
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30:40Transitioning 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…
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Empowering Veterans: JJ Hardy on Leadership, Transition, and Advocacy | VET S.O.S. Podcast
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32:01In 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 …
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AI Tools for Veterans: Simplifying Military-to-Civilian Transition with AI Ready Veteran
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31:23In 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…
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Overcoming Challenges: Nick Padlow's Journey from Army Veteran to CEO of Sophros Recovery
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31:39In 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…
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Navigating Transitions: Coffee Bunker’s Mission to Transform Military Transitions
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32:46In 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…
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Empowering Military Families: Christina Etchberger on Building Community with It's a Military Life
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26:16In 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…
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Kick Off Season 5 with Pancakes for Roger: Inspiring Stories & Veteran Support
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34:58🎙️ 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…
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Veteran Success: Transitioning Careers with Purpose – Insights from Rob Pangero
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32:41In 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…
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Healing Trauma: How Operation Angel Wing Supports Veterans & First Responders
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36:05In 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…
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Wayne Soares: Veteran Advocacy, Cooking Show & Vietnam Stories | VET S.O.S. Podcast
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30:26🎙️ 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…
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Road Home Program: Free Mental Health Support for Veterans & Families | VetSOS Podcast
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31:07Welcome 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 …
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Operation Homefront: Transforming Veterans' Lives | SOS Podcast 🎙️ #GivingTuesday
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31:07🎙️ 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…
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How the Adopt-A-Vet Dental Program is Changing Veterans’ Lives | Interview with CEO Deme Gonzalez
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29:37In 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…
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Military Transition Success: Wendi Wray’s Journey & Tips for Women Veterans | VetSOS Podcast
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34:17In 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…
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