Holding Down the Fort by US VetWealth

Latest Episodes:

204: Iman McDonnaugh-Brown Blends Trinidadian Heritage and Family Values with Her Entrepreneurial Spirit Jun 17, 2024

Show notes

Hey there, listener! Thank you for checking out our older seasons! As of September 2025, we have revamped our website! So if any episodes or links seem to be missing, don't hesitate to contact Jen at jen@holdingdownthefortpodcast.com

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204: Iman McDonnaugh-Brown Blends Trinidadian Heritage and Family Values with Her Entrepreneurial Spirit

Also available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/06dSrIdvVXE

How does your cultural heritage influence your personal and professional life? For Iman McDonnaugh-Brown, she shares her journey from a modeling career to founding "We Are Wonderfully Made," a business that celebrates her Trinidadian heritage through natural and flavorful pepper sauces.

As a military spouse, Iman navigates the complexities of frequent moves and building a business that reflects her family's legacy. Moreover, Iman opens up about the profound impact of losing her son, Andreas Darius Brown, and how this personal tragedy has deepened her commitment to family, resilience, and making a positive impact through her entrepreneurial ventures. Listen in as Iman discusses the power of embracing one's roots, the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, and the enduring strength of family bonds in the face of loss.

Resources Mentioned:

Additional Resources Mentioned:

Learn about The Price of Freedom Foundation, which is dedicated to serving Gold Star Families by telling the stories of their cherished fallen: https://priceoffreedomfoundation.org/
Read about Jen's family history and story about her father in the book, Silent Soul: The MM1 Alfonso Apdal Amos Story (The Price of Freedom Chronicles - Cold War Era) https://a.co/d/2BobnNH

As of Fall 2025, we have revamped our site! So if any episodes or links seem to be missing, don't hesitate to contact Jen at jen@holdingdownthefortpodcast.com

SHOW'S HISTORY FROM SEP 2023 to NOV 2024:

For Season 8 and 9, we showcased our partnership with Blue Water Advisors who brings needed change to our Veteran Senior Leaders, One Career Progression at a Time. Learn more at https://www.bluewater-advisors.com/

For Seasons 7, 8, and 9 (from episodes 152 to 214), the show partnered with The Rosie Network to showcase Service2CEO Graduates. Read more at https://www.flipsnack.com/5C757FD6AED/military-entrepreneur-magazine-spring-2025/full-view.html?p=39

RECOGNITION:

In the Fall of 2023, Jen Amos was sought after by InDependent to
This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.holdingdownthefortpodcast.com/subscribe

203: Scott R. Tucker and Mike Wallace Feature Partnerships and Programs Designed to Serve Military Retirees Jun 13, 2024

Show notes

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203: Scott R. Tucker and Mike Wallace Feature Partnerships and Programs Designed to Serve Military Retirees

Also available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/yBONz1al6H8

Jen Amos takes a break from hosting on Thursdays to introduce replays of her husband's live show, "Take A Knee" Tuesdays.

Continuing from episode 201, US VetWealth Founder and CEO Scott R. Tucker is joined by Blue Water Advisors (BWA) CEO Mike Wallace to discuss the Military Retirement Blueprint and the War Chest Strategy. They also discuss the "10-Year Financial Planning" strategy, challenges with the military mindset, and their shared passion to support transitioning service members.

Notes About Thursday Replays of "Take A Knee" Live Show

The show was formally titled after Scott's latest book, "Don't Forget Your War Chest," which is available for purchase at: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B08HJVPW1M/allbooks
Mentioned events and updates may be outdated. The intent of sharing the replays is to (1) get a glimpse into Jen and Scott's ever-evolving entrepreneurial journey, and (2) to discuss career progression for military retirees seeking employment in post-military.
Recommended to watch via video - If possible, we recommend that you watch this episode on our YouTube channel as the hosts may reference visuals. Each episode will provide a direct link to the YouTube video in the show notes for your convenience. Or subscribe now at: https://www.youtube.com/@holdingdownthefortpodcast
To stay up-to-date with "Take A Knee" Tuesdays, please subscribe to US VetWealth's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@usvwtv

Resources Mentioned

Connect with US VetWealth Founder and CEO Scott R. Tucker on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottrtucker/
Connect with Blue Water Advisors CEO Mike Wallace on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-s-wallace1/
Learn more about Blue Water Advisors: https://www.bluewater-advisors.com/

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As of Fall 2025, we have revamped our site! So if any episodes or links seem to be missing, don't hesitate to contact Jen at jen@holdingdownthefortpodcast.com

SHOW'S HISTORY FROM SEP 2023 to NOV 2024:

For Season 8 and 9, we
This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.holdingdownthefortpodcast.com/subscribe

202: Pinky Uttayaya-Andrews Empowers Veterans and Spouses Against Chronic Pain Through Holistic Wellness Jun 10, 2024

Show notes

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202: Pinky Uttayaya-Andrews Empowers Veterans and Spouses Against Chronic Pain Through Holistic Wellness

Also available on Youtube: https://youtu.be/TL_bJay3DFo

Are you able to recognize chronic pain or discomfort in your life? If so, what steps have you taken to manage it more effectively? For Pinky Uttayaya-Andrews, her desire to help others began after seeing her husband, a Marine Corps veteran, struggle with chronic pain and PTSD.

Pinky (a.k.a. "Coach P") founded Zenergy Health and Performance and created the proven 7-pillar system to help veterans and the military community overcome physical and invisible wounds through a holistic approach. Her approach encompasses mindset, physical well-being, nutrition, stress management, sleep management, recovery, and social well-being. She draws her knowledge from veterinary medicine to understand and explain medical issues to her clients. She finds her work rewarding, especially when she sees her clients regain their mobility and improve their quality of life.

Listen to Pinky's passion for making a significant impact on the quality of life for veterans and the military community!

Resources Mentioned:

As of Fall 2025, we have revamped our site! So if any episodes or links seem to be missing, don't hesitate to contact Jen at jen@holdingdownthefortpodcast.com

SHOW'S HISTORY FROM SEP 2023 to NOV 2024:

RECOGNITION:

In the Fall of 2023, Jen Amos was sought after by InDependent to co-host the 8th annual InDependent Wellness Summit™.

In August 2022, Jen Amos' work on the podcast was recognized by Disney Institute and she was hand-selected as the only non-Disney employee to moderate the first Military Spouse Employment panel for the Veterans...
This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.holdingdownthefortpodcast.com/subscribe

201: Scott R. Tucker and Mike Wallace Share How Military Retirees Can Network for Success Jun 06, 2024

Show notes

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201: Scott R. Tucker and Mike Wallace Share How Military Retirees Can Network for Success

Also available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/QNI537I5hgI

Jen Amos takes a break from hosting on Thursdays to introduce replays of her husband's live show, "Take A Knee" Tuesdays.

US VetWealth Founder and CEO Scott R. Tucker is joined by Blue Water Advisors (BWA) CEO Mike Wallace to discuss how military retirees can identify their unique strengths and talents rather than focusing on weaknesses. They share how to offer value in the marketplace, tips on professional networking, what entrepreneurial advice can do for job seekers, and much more.

Notes About Thursday Replays of "Take A Knee" Live Show

The show was formally titled after Scott's latest book, "Don't Forget Your War Chest," which is available for purchase at: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B08HJVPW1M/allbooks
Mentioned events and updates may be outdated. The intent of sharing the replays is to (1) get a glimpse into Jen and Scott's ever-evolving entrepreneurial journey, and (2) to discuss career progression for military retirees seeking employment in post-military.
Recommended to watch via video - If possible, we recommend that you watch this episode on our YouTube channel as the hosts may reference visuals. Each episode will provide a direct link to the YouTube video in the show notes for your convenience. Or subscribe now at: https://www.youtube.com/@holdingdownthefortpodcast
To stay up-to-date with "Take A Knee" Tuesdays, please subscribe to US VetWealth's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@usvwtv

Resources Mentioned

Connect with US VetWealth Founder and CEO Scott R. Tucker on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottrtucker/
Connect with Blue Water Advisors CEO Mike Wallace on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-s-wallace1/
Learn more about Blue Water Advisors: https://www.bluewater-advisors.com/

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As of Fall 2025, we have revamped our site! So if any episodes or links seem to be missing, don't hesitate to contact Jen at jen@holdingdownthefortpodcast.com

SHOW'S HISTORY FROM SEP 2023 to NOV 2024:

For Season 8 and 9, we showcased our...
This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.holdingdownthefortpodcast.com/subscribe

200: Stephanie Brown and The Rosie Network empower and support military entrepreneurs Jun 03, 2024

Show notes

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200: Stephanie Brown and The Rosie Network empower and support military entrepreneurs

Also available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/rmtqxQszve0

To celebrate our show's huge milestone, we're excited and honored to feature Stephanie Brown, The Rosie Network's Founder and CEO, in our 200th episode! Stephanie shares how the non-profit began and her enthusiasm for promoting entrepreneurship within the military community. She discusses the traits common to military-connected entrepreneurs, the high rate of military spouse unemployment, and the importance of building a supportive network. Lastly, she highlights the importance of finding self-worth outside traditional roles, the value of mentorship, the impact of overcoming fear, and the fulfilling nature of running a business.

Resources Mentioned:

As of Fall 2025, we have revamped our site! So if any episodes or links seem to be missing, don't hesitate to contact Jen at jen@holdingdownthefortpodcast.com

SHOW'S HISTORY FROM SEP 2023 to NOV 2024:

RECOGNITION:

In the Fall of 2023, Jen Amos was sought after by InDependent to co-host the 8th annual InDependent Wellness Summit™.

March 2022, former co-host Jenny Lynne has voted
This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.holdingdownthefortpodcast.com/subscribe

199: Scott R. Tucker and Mike Wallace Talk About How to Approach Military Transition Assistance May 30, 2024

Show notes

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199: Scott R. Tucker and Mike Wallace Talk About How to Approach Military Transition Assistance

Also available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ZHnHKepp8Dg

Jen Amos takes a break from hosting on Thursdays to introduce replays of her husband's live show, "Take A Knee" Tuesdays.

US VetWealth Founder and CEO Scott R. Tucker is joined by Blue Water Advisors (BWA) CEO Mike Wallace to discuss military retirement planning and career progression for retirees. They address the challenges with the terms "transition" and "assistance" for military retirees. They encourage setting personal goals such as understanding one's mission, vision, and priorities before focusing on compensation or job fit. Lastly, Scott and Mike address what it means to pursue risky investments for building retirement savings, and the benefits of professional networking.

Notes About Thursday Replays of "Take A Knee" Live Show

The show was formally titled after Scott's latest book, "Don't Forget Your War Chest," which is available for purchase at: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B08HJVPW1M/allbooks
Mentioned events and updates may be outdated. The intent of sharing the replays is to (1) get a glimpse into Jen and Scott's ever-evolving entrepreneurial journey, and (2) to discuss career progression for military retirees seeking employment in post-military.
Recommended to watch via video - If possible, we recommend that you watch this episode on our YouTube channel as the hosts may reference visuals. Each episode will provide a direct link to the YouTube video in the show notes for your convenience. Or subscribe now at: https://www.youtube.com/@holdingdownthefortpodcast
To stay up-to-date with "Take A Knee" Tuesdays, please subscribe to US VetWealth's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@usvwtv

Resources Mentioned

Connect with US VetWealth Founder and CEO Scott R. Tucker on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottrtucker/
Connect with Blue Water Advisors CEO Mike Wallace on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-s-wallace1/
Learn more about Blue Water Advisors: https://www.bluewater-advisors.com/

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As of Fall 2025, we have revamped our site! So if any episodes or links seem to be missing, don't hesitate to contact Jen at jen@holdingdownthefortpodcast.com

Our main sponsor, US VetWealth, proudly offers Life Insurance and Annuity Strategies for The High-Income Military Retiree. Let's help you capitalize on your above-average health and substantial income-earning potential for post-military life. Free military retirement calculator is available at
This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.holdingdownthefortpodcast.com/subscribe

198: Katie Peabody's Answer to Outdoor Apparel for Children 12 Months to 12 Years Old May 27, 2024

Show notes

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198: Katie Peabody's Answer to Outdoor Apparel for Children 12 Months to 12 Years Old

Also available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/yhOYpDY_7a4

What outdoor activity brings you and your children the most joy? For Katie Peabody and her family, it's spending quality time in the mountains.

As the Founder and CEO of KinderMountain, Katie noticed a gap in the market for technical outdoor clothing for children, especially kids under five. This discovery came about as she struggled to find suitable outdoor clothing for her three children.

As a recent graduate of The Rosie Network's Service2CEO Program, Katie's company aims to produce hiking pants, softshell jackets, and sun shirts for children, designed with the same technical features as adult outdoor clothing. She also plans to offer a trade-in program for outgrown items to keep them out of landfills and make them more affordable. Listen to Katie's passion for getting kids outdoors and sharing the benefits of outdoor learning!

Resources Mentioned:

As of Fall 2025, we have revamped our site! So if any episodes or links seem to be missing, don't hesitate to contact Jen at jen@holdingdownthefortpodcast.com

SHOW'S HISTORY FROM SEP 2023 to NOV 2024:

RECOGNITION:

In the Fall of 2023, Jen Amos was sought after by InDependent to co-host the 8th annual InDependent Wellness Summit™.

March 2022, former co-host Jenny Lynne has voted the 2022 Naval Station Norfolk Armed Forces Insurance Military Spouse of the Year.

November 2020, Jen Amos was awarded “Media Professional of the Year” at The Rosie Network Entrepreneur Awards! The show continued to collect award nominations in...
This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.holdingdownthefortpodcast.com/subscribe

197: Scott R. Tucker and Mike Wallace Discuss Leveraging LinkedIn to Strategically Build Your Professional Network May 23, 2024

Show notes

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197: Scott R. Tucker and Mike Wallace Discuss Leveraging LinkedIn to Strategically Build Your Professional Network

Also available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/f3BKfHvY_nY

Jen Amos takes a break from hosting on Thursdays to introduce replays of her husband's live show, "Take A Knee" Tuesdays.

Continuing from episode 195, US VetWealth Founder and CEO Scott R. Tucker is joined by Blue Water Advisors (BWA) CEO Mike Wallace to discuss LinkedIn engagement tips for military retirees seeking employment. They also stress the benefits, power, and importance of networking.

Notes About Thursday Replays of "Take A Knee" Live Show

The show was formally titled after Scott's latest book, "Don't Forget Your War Chest," which is available for purchase at: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B08HJVPW1M/allbooks
Mentioned events and updates may be outdated. The intent of sharing the replays is to (1) get a glimpse into Jen and Scott's ever-evolving entrepreneurial journey, and (2) to discuss career progression for military retirees seeking employment in post-military.
Recommended to watch via video - If possible, we recommend that you watch this episode on our YouTube channel as the hosts may reference visuals. Each episode will provide a direct link to the YouTube video in the show notes for your convenience. Or subscribe now at: https://www.youtube.com/@holdingdownthefortpodcast
To stay up-to-date with "Take A Knee" Tuesdays, please subscribe to US VetWealth's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@usvwtv

Resources Mentioned

Connect with US VetWealth Founder and CEO Scott R. Tucker on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottrtucker/
Connect with Blue Water Advisors CEO Mike Wallace on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-s-wallace1/
Learn more about Blue Water Advisors: https://www.bluewater-advisors.com/

---

As of Fall 2025, we have revamped our site! So if any episodes or links seem to be missing, don't hesitate to contact Jen at jen@holdingdownthefortpodcast.com

SHOW'S HISTORY FROM SEP 2023 to NOV 2024:

For Season 8 and 9, we showcased our partnership with Blue Water Advisors who brings needed change to our...
This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.holdingdownthefortpodcast.com/subscribe

196: Michele Kostedt Bridges the Gap Between Healthcare and Sick Care Through Nurse Coaching May 20, 2024

Show notes

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196: Michele Kostedt Bridges the Gap Between Healthcare and Sick Care Through Nurse Coaching

Also available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Y0W3zRK1DuQ

Can you identify a gap in your healthcare experience where additional support could have made a difference? For Michele Kostedt, she shares her journey as a registered nurse who has decided to launch a business as a holistic nurse coach.

As a Nurse Coach and Founder of Holistic Wellness and Coaching, Michele helps her clients implement lifestyle changes and provides comprehensive support, addressing their physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. She explains the unique gap she aims to bridge in healthcare through nurse coaching. Michele's story is a testament to the power of following one's intuition, embracing new opportunities for self-growth, and the impact of nurse coaching in the landscape of modern healthcare.

Resources Mentioned:

http://www.holisticwellnessandcoaching.com/
https://www.instagram.com/holisticwellnessandcoaching
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559769991917
Email: RNCoach4wellness@gmail.com
Phone: 760-685-1105

As of Fall 2025, we have revamped our site! So if any episodes or links seem to be missing, don't hesitate to contact Jen at jen@holdingdownthefortpodcast.com

SHOW'S HISTORY FROM SEP 2023 to NOV 2024:

RECOGNITION:

In the Fall of 2023, Jen Amos was sought after by InDependent to co-host the 8th annual InDependent Wellness Summit™.

March 2022, former co-host
This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.holdingdownthefortpodcast.com/subscribe

195: Scott R. Tucker and Mike Wallace Discuss How to Use LinkedIn to Strategically Connect with Industry Leaders May 16, 2024

Show notes

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